Ask Oscar

Training A New Runner

2012-01-27T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am not the only dog that has been running along our dirt road these days. Gladys turned one earlier this month, and she has been slowly ramping up her mileage. Usually you wait till a dog turns one before running with them, and Mark and Ali were true to that. Sure, they took her for a mile a few times before she hit the 365-day marker, but now she has been jogging right alongside me.

Let's get something straight. A dog doesn't just jump into the sorts of mileage that you have been seeing on my running log. For example, on Thursday, Gladys ran her longest distance to date -- 6 miles. On the same day, we left her at home while Mark and I took off on a "big dog" run -- 11 miles. Just too much for a rookie. But don't worry, Gladys. Keep training, and someday we'll let you join the big dogs.

For now, though, sometimes you're just going to have to sit at home.

Note: on my running log, I have been inserting the letters WG (with Gladys). Any number to the right of these letters indicates her mileage for the day if it was different from mine. On a day like Thursday, her mileage is not included because we ran at separate times. What, don't like that I don't include her? Well, then, she can get her own running log on her own blog. Sheesh!

Dear Oscar, Did you do anything special for New Year's? -- Father Time

2012-01-05T11:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Timey,

Gladys and I escorted in the New Year in fine style -- with a New Year's Eve adventure!

Well, let's back up a minute. My New Year's Eve didn't start with fireworks: Mark and Ali walked down the street to a party... and didn't bring me! Can you imagine? What did they think I'd do -- jump on people? Eat all the party snacks? Drink all the beer? Well, of course I would have done all that, but what's a party without a little excitement and revelry?

Anyway, after that party, their walk continued back to the next door neighbor Sarah's, where there was a small New Year's Eve bonfire. Apparently, Mark felt bad (as he should have) and walked through the woods to get us.

It...was...awesome. There were like three or four other dogs there, so we played and romped. Someone also left some hot dogs by the fire and I almost got them before Mark intervened. After the hot dog incident, I decided to really ramp up the party. I wandered a little way into the woods before catching a scent... and off I went.

I always enjoy running in the woods. I barked and ran this way and that. I heard Mark and Ali calling for me, but when Lyle (golden retriever-slash-husky) and Gladys showed up, I got even more excited! I led them on an adventure that covered I don't know how many miles!

As always, I returned shortly thereafter -- 20 or 30 minutes -- or should I say, I encountered Sarah on the road who was looking for us 20 or 30 minutes later. She got me by the collar and returned me to Alison, who was also on the road. Funny thing I noticed: they only grabbed onto me. Lyle and Gladys got to continue running free. They're nothing but a bunch of followers anyway.

Still, it was an unbelievable New Year's. The next day, Gladys and I laid around all day. We didn't even follow Ali around the house. Hard partying like what we did requires serious recovery.

Happy New Year everyone! Oscar

Introduction to Winter

2011-12-09T10:08:00.001-08:00

It sure took long enough this year, but we finally have some snow! You might wonder why a mature dog like me -- after all, I did turn 5 recently -- would be getting so impatient about something as uncontrollable as the seasons.

The reason is that I have been eager to introduce my younger sister Gladys to Winter and all its fun! As a southern dog (she comes from Kentucky and Tennessee), she had never seen snow before moving to Vermont. And her introduction wasn't immediate like mine. I came to Vermont from Virginia in the month of March, and there was still plenty of snow on the ground. Gladys came here in April. There was snow in the mountains at that time, but she never made it up. I bet she's been living all this time thinking that all of life was running in the grass, rolling in leaves, and swimming in the river.

How wrong she was! She got to see snow twice briefly -- once in October and once in November. But only with this last snowfall (not even a deep one, mind you), is she getting the idea that this might be sticking around for awhile. And although she was a bit tentative with the two earlier snowfalls, she is fully embracing this latest one. We are in full-on frolick mode, whether it's running in snow-covered fields or just ruckus-ing in our own backyard. We've been so excited that we both recently jumped the 40-inch fence in our backyard just to get to some freshies. I realize that it's no biggie for a dog my size to hop a 40-inch fence. But Gladys? Get real!

In fact, I used to be sad when my humans left for work, and I'd have to stay home. No longer. Now I look forward to it (please don't tell any humans -- I don't want to hurt any feelings). They leave, and the real fun begins. And I feel the same way about winter.

Let the games begin!

Celebration of a Great Life

2011-11-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

Last week, Scout the cat passed away on the spot where he spent many hours of his life: on the laundry. This cat loved sleeping, laying, and sitting in laundry baskets, bath towels, or even just a sweater that had been tossed aside. One of his favorite spots was where Mark and Ali keep the folded towels on the second built-in shelf in our bathroom. I might have tried the spot, but, while it was a perfect nook for a 10-or-so-pound cat, there was just not enough space for a 70-plus-pound lab.

Waffle, Gladys, and I took turns visiting with Scout in his dying hours, giving him a wag of our tails or a good sniff. He paved the way for pets in this household, and we all appreciated and looked up to him for that.

He did things his way -- he took showers, he ate his food at his own pace, and he patrolled the grounds both indoors and out until the day he died. He was not the type of cat that tried to get credit for all of his contributions; in fact, not a mouse has turned up dead in the bathroom since his passing. Could it be that Waffle is not the great mouser everyone lauds him to be and that really it's been Scout all this time?

I wouldn't doubt it. Anyway, Scout the cat lived 15 years -- 5 of which were with me, 3 with Waffle, and the last 10 months with Gladys. We all have lots of energy, and I imagine we aren't easy for an old set-in-his-ways cat to put up with. But he never complained, and he served as a great role model and friend. We owe a lot to Scout and will never forget him.

Thanks buddy... We miss you!

Oscar

Dear Oscar, Would you say there are advantages for a puppy to have an older brother like yourself? -- Dog Psychologist

2011-10-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Dog-Shrink,

The answer is obvious: that puppy has it made. Think about it. When you come into a situation where perfection is modeled for you every day, it's very advantageous. Take, for example, the hiking trip we took last weekend. Friday night, we drove out to New Hampshire, stopping along the way at Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. Dog Mountain is a place where dogs can run, swim, and play -- and even visit a special dog chapel and a gift shop. We visited both -- while running, swimming, and playing. We arrived at a campsite in Gorham where Mark and Ali set up a tent, cooked dinner, and climbed into their sleeping bags. I showed Gladys (and Berkley, who was with us for the weekend while his human visited a foreign country to the north of the United States) how to sleep through the night and keep the tent nice and warm.

The next morning, we were at the trailhead of the Airline Trail before dawn and at the top of Mount Adams, the second highest peak in the Presidentials, by 830AM. It was crazy windy, but I showed Gladys how to put her nose into the wind so that her ears flapped. That's so much fun!

We descended to Star Lake and then climbed Mount Madison. I stayed right on the trail and didn't even freak out when we saw a moose -- again, a good role model for my impressionable little sister. The way down was pretty rocky as we took a more obscure route -- the Watson Path to the Brookside Trail. The less beaten path proved to be a good choice; we saw about ten hikers, but at the trailhead there must have been 250 cars! Crazy!

It was a great weekend, but I want you to think for a minute. If I hadn't been such a great hiker all these years, do you think Mark and Ali would be taking Gladys on hikes? And when Gladys follows me everywhere I go on these hikes -- to all the good drinking spots and all the good smells -- do you agree that she's a pretty lucky dog?

I figured you'd see things my way.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, What is your favorite weather to run in? Also, what season do you prefer for running? -- Track Star

2011-10-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Star,

By far, I like cool and foggy mornings. In fall.

At least that was my preference THIS morning when I ran with Alison. Tomorrow I may prefer hot, sunny afternoon runs. In a couple of months, I'll prefer winter, for sure.

So I guess, to answer your question, it's a tie: I like all weather. And all seasons. My favorite? I just like running. As for when, where, or how, it doesn't matter. I like all of it.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I noticed a lull in your running log between Sept 4 and Sept 22. What gives? -- Running Coach

2011-09-22T12:32:00.001-07:00

Dear Coach,

Here's the thing. Alison and Mark are always training for these big events. And here I run with them -- basically get them trained and ready to go. Do they say thank you? Do they bring me to the event?

The latest event that I wasn't allowed to attend was the PumpkinMan Triathlon in Maine. You think I didn't want to go swim in the pond and run the half-marathon with them? So they really didn't run at all the week before the race, and then they left me at home for like 4 days.

Meanwhile, there's more to the story. We went for a big hike last Saturday in Lincoln, Vermont. (Not Lincoln, Nebraska in case anyone is wondering.) Anyway, a mile into the hike, I caught a scent. I'd say it was a wild animal, but I can't even be sure. All I know is I got all excited and split. Mark and Alison were so worried! They actually walked back to the car looking for me! Like I would go to the car! Anyway, because of me we got to hike 13 miles instead of 10 (they should be thanking me!). However, on my little foray, I must have twisted my front leg. When I went to the group run the next day, I was limping all over the place, so I walked with my friend Todd who was pushing his baby Henry.

It was a little embarrassing to be stuck with the walkers, but I suppose it was for the best.

Hope this answers your question,
Oscar

Dear Oscar, From your blog, I see that you are an excellent writer for a dog. But have you tried your hand at photography? -- Picture-Perfect

2011-09-17T16:21:00.001-07:00

Dear Perfect,

I am so glad you asked! In addition to writing my blog, I am also a highly skilled picture-taker. In fact, today in the middle of our hike, I took the pictures below of Mark, Ali, Gladys, and me, thinking they would make nice shots for the Aiken family Christmas card. Let me know which one you think would be best.

Taking pictures can be a challenge for a dog. For one, it isn't easy holding a camera with paws. But mostly, it's tough getting everyone to sit still. Pix below...

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, Do you or any of the pets in your household have nicknames? -- An interested Reader

2011-09-16T04:18:00.001-07:00

Dear Reader, We are one of those families with more animals than people. And, yes, the pets run this household. Here are some of the animals I live with and their nicknames.

Scout
Cat
Age 15
Scouty-boy
Scouterrific
Scouteromovich
Orange-white

Gladys
Puppy
Age 9 months
Gladiator
Pup Squeak
Pupper dog
Glad-dog
Sog-dog

Waffle
Cat
Age 3 years
Wafflekins
Waflo
The waffle-nator
Orange
Mouse Killer

Oscar
Dog
Age almost 5 years
Oscar-nator
Bubber
Yellow
Yeller
Buddy

Dear Oscar, I heard Hurricane Irene hit Vermont the hardest. Did the storm affect you? -- Weather-Watcher

2011-09-01T07:28:00.001-07:00

Dear Watcher,

As you can see from these pictures -- all taken of my street -- yes, the storm affected us. Fortunately, our family and our stuff is safe. In fact, our great friend Craig from South Carolina got stranded here with us for 24 hours and even helped us split and stack half of our winter firewood supply!

Sadly, however, we have neighbors who were hit harder than us. For example, at Maisie the lab's house, the basement was totally flooded. Also, all of the surrounding cornfields were flooded and destroyed -- which affects all of the cows in our neighborhood.

What is left of the cornfields also affects me -- quite profoundly, I might add. Seeing all of the corn plants that had been flattened by the swollen river, I did the logical thing yesterday on our morning walk: I ran off, skipped the walk, and munched on ears of corn all morning. Made sense to me, right? Well, it turns out that river-soaked corn isn't so good for a yellow dog; last night, I threw up everything I ate. And although I was completely willing to clean it up afterwards (as was my little sister Gladys), Mark made us steer clear of the mess, while he cleaned it up himself and (gasp!) threw it all away. What a waste!

So as you can see, Irene affects not just people, but dogs too. Best wishes to those who are still digging themselves out. And remember, river-soaked corn is no good to eat -- especially in large quantities.

Your friend, Oscar

Photos (clockwise, from top left): A flooded cornfield; After the flood, Gladys inspects river-flattened corn; High water mark next to our road; Gladys inspects debris left by the river.

Dog Park Blues

2011-08-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday we visited Burlington's Starr Farm Dog Park. I have been there many times, and I usually serve as pack leader/park greeter. I go there and run and run and run and run... and when I'm not running, I'm dog-wrassling. It's a great time.

Except on Thursday, my attitude towards the park was a little different. I haven't visited all summer, and you know? At four years old -- almost five -- I sort of felt... over it. I didn't really run much. Yes, there were other dogs there. And yes, some wanted to play -- including a 1-year-old yellow lab that weighed like 80 pounds. At one point I did sort of chase two brown huskies -- but I admit it was half-hearted. I guess ever since Gladys joined the family, I can do all the dog-wrassling I want right in the living room. And with our almost-daily walks to the river, running around in an open space is really not a novelty. I'm not saying I'll never visit the park again -- and I may even run around next time. All I'm saying is that, for me, the luster has sort of worn off the dog park.

Am I spoiled? Do I have it made? I'm not going to say.

But I think you know the answer.

Back to School

2011-07-14T06:50:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I wondered if I really needed more school. Hadn't I already aced my way through "Think Like a Dog" Level 1? What was really left for me to learn in Level 2?

Meanwhile, I know my human had other concerns. He hasn't been satisfied with our progress since Level 1. Notice I didn't say "my" progress. That is because Mark believes that any achievement (or under-achievement) on my part is due in part to his abilities (or lack of abilities) as a dog trainer. If I don't come when I'm not on a leash, he thinks it's because his actions have shown me that I can get away with not coming when I'm not on my leash.

Which I can! So what were they going to do about it?

Anyway, I'm pretty sure Mark was worried they were going to send us back to Level 1. It turns out he had nothing to worry about. I have to say, once I get to school, my attitude changes. I find myself wanting to please everyone. We did an agility course where the owners have to get their dogs to go through a tunnel. I didn't want to at first, but once I did it once, I got a big kick about doing it over and over. I was one proud dog! Meanwhile, Mark asked straight up how to transform me into a dog who comes. April, the dog trainer, showed him how to use a long line (NOT a retractable leash, she emphasized) to train me. And I have to say, we've been on it this week since class. It's kind of cool because I can still run around a little bit (nothing like I usually do, of course), but the human still has control of his dog to make whatever corrections he wants. The weird part is I find myself wanting to be a good dog.! Like I said... it's very strange.

Meanwhile, up at school, Alison and Gladys were a team. While I walked around proudly acing all the tests and challenges, Gladys was the best "comer" in the group. Gee whiz, puppy, it's just a piece of cheese, for goodness sakes! It's not like they're giving you a steak. Get ahold of yourself!

Bottom line: Level 2 was a good time for everyone involved. So watch out -- I may become a well-behaved dog yet.

Dear Oscar, Were you and your new puppy able to go swimming over the holiday weekend? Lifeguard from Louisville

2011-07-04T17:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Lifeguard,

We spent the entire holiday weekend at the Aiken camp in North Hero. It was HOT, and, yes, we did get to do some swimming... obviously!

I should clarify "hot" and mention that being on the lake does cool things down considerably. And the breeze coming out of the south all weekend was so refreshing! But Gladys and I made many forays down to the beach for swimming, sniffing, and exploring.

One difference between Gladys and me that has come to light since her arrival in the family is how she handles water. Clearly, we both have Lab in our ancestry: just look at our heads, fur, and noses. But where I have inherited the typical "water-dog" traits -- the webbed paws, the fur that, like Gore-tex, repels water, and a buoyancy that makes swimming easy -- Gladys is the opposite. First off, when she gets in over her head, her tendency is to sink. You should see her dog-paddling like crazy just to stay afloat! You have me, pretty much just paddling every now and then for steering purposes while she is cranking her front feet to keep her head above water! Then when we get out, I shake once, and I'm pretty much dry. Gladys is sopping wet for hours! She drips like a wet cat, for crying out loud! No matter how much she shakes, she keeps dripping. Alison sometimes has to wipe her down with a towel.

This isn't saying she doesn't like the beach. Gladys munched on several dead fish, sniffed all the smells, and wades in quite willingly. I don't doubt we'll log many more hours down there. But, for now, I'm thanking my lucky stars for my good swimmer's genes.

Oscar

Dear Oscar, I heard you went rock climbing Friday. How was the new puppy? -- Rocky

2011-06-13T09:42:00.001-07:00

Dear Rocky, This is a good question because at the crag, a dog has to be particularly careful. This is probably why our humans have always kept me on the leash when they take me climbing. They don't want to have to deal with any dog-shenanigans when they are belaying each other, nor do they want me running off to bother another climbing party while they are trying to belay someone. Likewise, I don't usually go to the top of a crag; who knows what sticks or stones I might kick over the edge in my excitement?

To answer your question, Gladys was perfectly behaved... which doesn't say much, since there isn't much opportunity to do much wrong other than bark. Which we did at one point when someone else's dog (off the leash) came over to us. We pretty much went berserk -- can you blame us? A perfectly good opportunity for some rollicking good dog ruckus wasted. Oh well -- it's all in the name of safety.

One interesting fact about the leash at the climbing area is how we are fixed to the rock. Obviously if Mark is belaying Alison, he can't be holding me on my leash at the same time. So they have taken to attaching us to the crag using Camelots -- that is trad gear more commonly used as protection for a lead climber. But Friday they were top-roping, so the trad gear was available. Attached is a photo of a size 3 BD cam and a red Metolius cam attached to two nylon dog leashes. Excuse the tech-talk, but you know how climbers are. That's right, total gear nerds.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, From your running log, I see that you did not run yesterday. Did you get any exercise? Sincerely, Dog Log-Watcher

2011-06-09T07:26:00.001-07:00

Dear Log-Watcher,

In fact, I did go for a little walk yesterday -- up the Burrows Trail to the top of Camel's Hump. Things looked slightly unfamiliar to me as I traffic Burrows more often in the winter months. But we were looking for a short hike to a summit, and this is the quickest way up and down the Hump.

We were joined by John G, who came all the way from BC to make the hike. Johnny seems to have traveled east with his hometown hockey team, but I hope John's sojourn in New England has been more restful and hospitable than that of the Canucks. Nobody was very welcoming to them.

Meanwhile, it was also nice to go on a hike with Gladys the puppy. Being an older sibling, of course, is a big responsibility. She was excited, but I believe I showed her how to pace oneself and behave. I never run off on a hike; I don't want to give my humans any reason to consider not bringing me. Gladys did a great job, and I look forward to many more hikes with her in the future!

Oscar

Dear Oscar, This is a follow-up to the reader's question from yesterday, because I have a similar

2011-05-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

problem. My boyfriend leaves his stuff -- cars, tools, gear, and equipment all over the driveway, lawn, and house. What should I do? -- Baffled in Boston

Dear Baffled,

He leaves his toys around, you say? Ahhh, a man after my own heart. I love rooting around in my toybox. And I never return anything.

Good luck, Oscar

Dear Oscar, My boyfriend doesn't shower, leaves his stuff everywhere, and doesn't do dishes. What should I do? -- In Need of Dating Advice

2011-05-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Advice, You raise some complicated issues, so let's go through them one-by-one. You say he doesn't shower, eh? I can't say I'm too keen on baths either, so I can't really fault him for it. I guess I would ask: does he go in the water at all? I swim every chance I get, but add soap, and I'm not really interested. As for him leaving his stuff around, again, I'm going to answer your question with a question. The boy comes with stuff, okay? Do you want the boy? Or do you want your apartment clear of stuff? Only you can decide.

Regarding the dishes, this is a little more cut-and-dried. I have never left anything but a gleaming, completely clean dog dish. When I'm done eating, I lick it clean so that you'd never even know there had been food in it. I can't imagine leaving anything but a spotless dish. You say the boy leaves his dishes dirty? Tell the worthless, no-good bum to get out!

Hope this love advice helps.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, How has the new puppy affected your quality of life? -- Sibling Observer

2011-05-15T09:18:00.001-07:00

Photo by Ruth!

Dear Observer, As you may know, being the oldest sibling carries certain responsibilities. And I am pleased to report that I have been living up -- and maybe even exceeding -- all expectations. First off, many of my fans have asked how -- and if -- I like the new puppy. This puppy, Gladys, is the best thing that happened to this family since I arrived on the scene four years ago. We play all the time. Yes, I like her!

Meanwhile, I have been demonstrating how to behave like a good dog should. Which, loosely translated, means my humans brought us to dog school and haven't been letting me run free. Which I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss roaming the neighborhood, but what I don't miss is how disappointed Mark always acted when I got into the neighbor's trash or compost. And, besides, they have been clear that once they are done practicing everything we learned at school (ie I convince them that I will come when called) I'll be able to run free again.

And, I have to say, there are advantages to being the oldest. For example, I get to go running with my humans (meaning Mark, since Ali has been temporarily sidelined by an injured foot), while Gladys stays home. Puppies aren't allowed to run until they are a year old (and I hope she doesn't hold us up too much when she can go). Also, puppies sleep in their crate, while old dogs like me sleep upstairs in the human area -- even on the bed, if I feel like it. Finally, and most importantly, big old dogs get more dog food. Sorry little puppy. Maybe someday when you are 4 years-old and weigh 75 pounds, you'll get a cup-and-a-half per serving too -- instead of your measly two-thirds of a cup.

Although you won't be seeing me around the neighborhood like the old days, what you will see is a lot of dog ruckus around the homestead. We romp and play off and on all day. Then we sleep... and then we romp and play some more. Make no mistake -- having a puppy around makes for good times!

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I heard you went to school. Can they teach an old dog new tricks? -- Learner from Laredo

2011-05-08T03:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Learner, First off, who are you calling an "old" dog? I am only 4 years old. Although the paperwork at the dog school referred to me as "mature" (and we know how off-base that designation is) I am certainly not "old"!

As for the school, it was totally awesome. That's right -- awesome. Right off the bat, the lady who ran the program -- April Frost from Animal Visions and Holistic Center for Animals and People -- made it clear that none of my bad behaviors (like my running off, not coming when called, jumping on houseguests) are my fault. You heard me -- none. Finally, someone who sees things my way! She confirmed what I suspected all along: it's all my humans' fault!

That's right -- running, jumping, and all of that are things that dogs do naturally in their native environments (ie the Wild), and only because humans have domesticated us and brought us to live in environments not natural to us, are these behaviors not okay. So, she said, it's up to people to properly train their dogs to act appropriately in the human environment. The problem is, people don't know how to communicate with dogs -- and that's what April's program attempted to teach.

Pretty much all the dogs were cool, but Gladys and I, in my opinion, were the stars of the class. You should have seen that puppy come -- even when April brought out chickens to distract her! I showed that I can walk on a loose leash behind my human. It was actually fun, believe it or not.

One thing is for sure, with a teacher so completely on my side, I'll go to school any day.

Your friend, Oscar

Reform School

2011-05-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

I get to go to school! It has been a very exciting spring. First off, all the snow from winter lasted well into April. Then we got a new puppy. And the puppy, of course, has to go to obedience training. At first I was jealous, but then I heard the news: I get to go too!

With so many developments, I have been understandably excitable. I've been jumping on house guests, running off, and begging. Don't judge; I'm excited, okay? Anyway, lately, I haven't had many chances to run off; we either run on the leash these days, go to the dog park, or stay in the fenced yard. And the one or two times I have been outside the fence, I have bolted. Lots of good compost in the neighbors' gardens this time of year. And, let me tell you, there's no time like when people come over to show how amped up I am. Like when that lady from Gladys' adoption agency came over for a home visit before we were cleared to adopt? Boy, did I jump all over her!

Although, I do have a question. My humans trained me themselves, so why have they decided to bring Gladys to school? It's not like she's chewed anything or been a handful. She is cool about her crate, and she's nearly housebroken. What gives?

Wait a minute! I see what's going on here... Gladys is just an excuse! They're not going to get her trained; they're going for me! This isn't any old school; this is reform school! Hey, wasn't I good today when Mark and I went running? At mile 5.5 in the field, he let me off the leash, and didn't I heel until he said "okay"? And then when I took off, didn't I come right when he called? Yes and yes! So what's with reform school?

Oh well, we'll see how it goes. I'll give it a try. But listen here: if I don't like it, I'm outta there.

Dear Oscar, What's the big rush lately? -- Puppy Trainer

2011-04-26T11:32:00.001-07:00

Dear Trainer, Nobody's in a rush... unless you count my humans to train the new puppy, Gladys. What you are hearing are the words "Hurry Up" -- the new code word for "Gladys... go to the bathroom!"

Here's what happened. My humans were those people who claimed that they would never baby-talk if they ever got a puppy (or those other things that you've seen people baby-talking to). Then, of course, they got me. I was so cute, next thing you knew every word you heard was baby-talk. And they trained me to go to the bathroom when I heard the words, "Go potty!" (An aside: if you don't think it was humiliating then, think of how I feel now -- a fully grown dog -- still being subjected to "Go potty!"

However, there's an upside to the story. Someone called them on the baby-talk... it was Mark's little sister Lisa. "What's with the baby-talk?" I believe were her words. I guess they figured they had already trained me -- that there was no turning back. But they've gotten ahold of themselves. It's all grown-up talk so far with this new puppy, and they seem especially business-like when it comes to doing her business. "Hurry up," is the code. And, so far, Gladys is hurrying.

From a dog who never hurries (unless there's food involved), Oscar

Dear Oscar, Why have you been listening to soul music lately? -- Motown Marvel

2011-04-24T03:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Motown, That's just "Midnight Train to Georgia" by Gladys Knight and the Pips! The reason I've been listening to it is to honor the new addition to the team here in Richmond: Gladys the puppy! Gladys comes from a litter of six that were taken in as strays when they were 3 weeks old in Tennessee. Also in the litter were Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, and Percy Sledge (Percy was actually adopted by another Richmond family!).

Anyway, Gladys arrived yesterday, and it really brings back my puppy days. I may be big, but I'm still a pup at heart. In addition to playing, wrassling, running, and licking, I've been humming all the Gladys songs I know -- that is, the only one I know... "Midnight Train." Long live soul music!

Oscar

Dear Oscar, Is Spring ever going to come? -- Desperate for Warmth

2011-04-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Desperate, I have good news: I have seen three sure signs that it is Spring. 1) My human took the plow and the tire chains off his truck this morning. Granted, it was snowing while he did this, but he didn't seem to think it was going to accumulate. 2) He is no longer shouldering those long 2x4-looking things and heading to Stowe every day. Instead, he is sitting at his computer, writing. And you know what that means... lots of walks to the river for yours truly! (He really likes his breaks, it seems!) Finally, 3) That same human participated in the annual "Bring Your Dog To Work" day! Does it matter that nobody else ever participates? No! Does it matter that there is a strict rule prohibiting dogs from work? No! Because it's spring! Every year, it's the same thing. We work, then we hike up to the top of the ski area where all the lifts are closed. Then we ski down. The down part, is the hard part for me. My human can actually go pretty fast on those groomed ski trails -- faster than me, that's for sure. In the backcountry, I can keep up. The photo above is how tired I was on the way home. That was a lot of running.

I hope this answers your questions!
Oscar

Failed Experiment

2011-03-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

Dear Oscar, I heard you were getting a little brother. How did the experiment go? -- Puppy-Watcher

Dear Watcher,
I'm not going to make any excuses; I was a schmuck. I growled, I snarled, and I jumped the fence in our yard and ran away -- twice. I was the opposite of a gracious host.

But, hey, I'm telling you, this puppy wasn't the right fit. Or maybe I was jealous, I don't know. All my life I have heard the legends and lore of that beagle-god Hunter. And then in the front door waltzes this 6-pound black, brown, and white beagle-lab mix? I put my foot down and said no way. No beagle is going to come in here and take away my attention. Spoiled? Maybe. Bratty. Okay. But when you've played first fiddle as long as me, it's hard to give it up.

That puppy was a great dog, but not the right fit for us. Good luck, pupper. I know you'll find a forever home somewhere.

Feeling happy-but-not-overly-proud-of-my-behavior, Oscar

Undisclosed Dog, Undisclosed Lift

2011-03-11T06:42:00.000-08:00

I received the following letter last week from a reader-slash-dog-buddy. Please read...

Dear Oscar,

I was reading your blog today and it made me think two things: I miss hanging out with you in Vermont and also, dogs can ride lifts (just keep it on the DL)! You just have your human stick you in a big backpack, cinch the drawstring around your shoulders, and then put the flap over your head! You can stick your nose out a little but don't bark or move too much when you're in the lift-line! Tell your human to just carry you up in his or her arms... it helps to shoot through the lift waiting area and right onto the chair to avoid detection! Usually I hike up too, but on the rare and special occasion it can be cool to ride the lift!

-The Big K

Dear Oscar, How do you feel about the new qualifying times to gain entry in the Boston Marathon? -- An Obsessed Runner

2011-02-24T13:21:00.001-08:00

Dear Obsessed, I'm pretty neutral about the new standard. What affects me more immediately is that my humans qualified under the old standards. However, one of them (I won't mention names, but his name rhymes with "dark") has been pretty lackadaisical about his training. I mean, one has to run in order to get marathon ready. You can ski, play hockey, and climb at the gym all you want; it still won't help you run 26.2 miles. Besides, with the exception of the skiing (and then only when he goes backcountry skiing), I don't really get to participate in these acticvities. So it was nice to see him lacing up the running shoes today. We did 8 miles, and I felt pretty loose. Just between you and me, the loop seemed a little rough on my human. Oscar

Dear Oscar, I have some questions regarding a recent post:

2011-02-16T03:58:00.000-08:00

1. There were some pictures of yourself with and an itty bitty, teeny tiny little puppy. Why do you appear more than just a little bit frightened in some of those photos? Why does it appear that the aforementioned itty bitty, teeny tiny, little puppy has the upper hand in a couple of those photos?

2. Who's sweater is hanging from the chair in the twice aforementioned photos? (it's very nice.)

3. Have you ever swam in the ocean? Have you ever considered trying surfing?

From an Australian beach goer.

Dear Beach-Goer,
First off, I would have expected your message to have more of an accent to it, like "G-day, Mate" (pronouced "Mite"). Okay, on to your very important questions. One, the itty bitty puppy is Holly, and you are right, I was frightened at times. That puppy has sharp teeth! I had to growl a couple of times to let her know that I could swat her like a mosquito! Of course, I wouldn't. Which brings me to Part 2 of that question, why she seemed to have the upper hand in some shots. That's the fun of wrassling with small dogs: I let everyone have their chance to be on top. And as you can see from the photo on this post, I will play with anything or anyone, regardless of size. I just love to play!

The sweater is easy; it's Alison's. Although she is a talented knitter (and happens to be related to other talented knitters), this one is store-bought. Where, you ask? Lake Placid.

As for swimming in the ocean and surfing, I've done neither. My humans have been to the ocean three times, to my knowledge -- once on a rock climbing trip, once for a marathon, and once for vacation. I'm not that interested; I'm afraid the salty water would bleach my hair. No, I have never tried surfing, but I am an avid skier.

Meanwhile, I have a question for you. I noticed that you still haven't accepted my "Friend Request" on Facebook. What's up, you don't consort with dogs on-line?

Your friend, Oscar

Ski Season...

2011-02-04T14:38:00.001-08:00

... IS HERE!

Ski season starts a little later sometimes if you are a dog. And, hey, I don't even mind not being allowed on ski lifts. Going up is half the fun anyway.

I have included a photo, however, of the descent. On yesterday's adventure on Mount Mansfield, I only got stuck in one snowdrift after Wednesday's big storm. How do you get out of an over-your-head snowdrift, you ask? Easy: you dog-paddle!

Or, an alternative to catching all freshies is to follow in someone's ski tracks. I try both interchangeably. And both offer their own unique rewards.

Play Date

2011-01-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

My new relative Holly came over tonight for a play date, and let me tell you: that puppy likes to party! It was non-stop. However, don't think I let you down just because I am a 4-year-old dog and mature and responsible. Believe me, I can still party with the best, and I think I gave that little whipper-snapper a run for her money. At any rate, I can't wait for the next play date. These puppies are a lot of fun!

Dear Oscar, Does the recent extreme cold hold you back? -- Frostnipped in Fairfield

2011-01-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

Dear Frosty, In the last three days I have done a backcountry ski loop in Huntington, a 12-mile run in Richmond, and another backcountry ski in Underhill. So, yes -- I have been doing less than usual.

I wouldn't blame the cold though. After the 12-miler, Alison went cross-country skiing at Trapps -- no dogs allowed. And, instead of a major undertaking today, we were only outside for a bit over an hour. Ali and Mark made some comments about my cold paws, but I think they just wanted to hang out in front of the wood stove.

I will say this. One group of skiers acted surprised that I was outside on a day like today (for out-of-town readers or those who didn't venture out of your homes, today was sunny, about minus-4 degrees, and still -- despite the forecast which, for a week, has been calling for Arctic-like conditions today... and apparently people actually paid attention to it without paying attention to what it was actually like out!) Even last night's local news made a point to tell people that one thing to take into account when the weather is like "this" is to make sure you bring your pets in. Anyway, after that digression, we bumped into a couple of groups who asked if it was good for me to be out or whether I should be wearing booties or mushing wax on my pads. Wax on my pads? I'd lick it off, duh!

Anyway, we had a fantastic time (and even bumped into another dog who was heading up just as we were approaching the parking lot). And can you believe it? One of the groups had left their dog IN THE CAR! Are you kidding me? You should have seen the look on his face. He couldn't believe his owners took him to the trailhead and didn't take him out. I'm sure they had their reasons, but I'll say this: no weather gets in the way of my schedule!

Oscar

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-25T08:01:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is enjoying my favorite season -- winter! It's been an incredible week, with a winter solstice bonfire in Smugglers' Notch (here's a shout out to my buddy Berkeley and my new dog-friend Moxie), an awesome hike in the Bahrenburg woods during the 2010 Boot League tradition, and a VERY exciting visit from my old pal Santa.

So Happy Holidays everyone, and get ready for the best winter ever!

Dear Oscar, Why haven't you posted in two months? And, while you're answering that, why hasn't your human posted either? -- Lost Without Your Wisdom

2010-12-12T19:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Lost, I don't know what these people have been doing, but it certainly isn't blogging! And I don't know who picked out those sunglasses, but I hope they didn't pay more than a couple dollars (or pesos).

But seriously, my human calls himself a writer, and he has his own blog (click here to see the blog). And you're right, not a single post in two months! What is up with that? Here he is -- a professional writer, published in magazines and newspapers all over the country. But not a post since early October. Pathetic, if you ask me.

What, you say? Why haven't I posted in the same amount of time? People, please. I am a dog, for goodness sakes! A labrador retriever! What did you expect? Aren't you just impressed that I taught myself to log onto a computer and type?

For those of you that do follow my running log, I did run in the months of November and December -- a fair amount, in fact. I will try to get those distances up there this week. And, fine, I'll get some posts up too. But remember, it's the rare dog that writes. If anyone should be referred to as "slacking" for the lack of recent posts on his blog, it's not me. It's my human.

Dear Oscar, Thanks for the insightful post about always being ready to go. I think Woody Allen said "90 percent of success is showing up." Hope you

2010-10-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

can come over soon, except my human says I can't chase you because of my sore wrist. Your friend, Gus

Dear Gus,

What is it with humans? Do they think we want to sit around on our rear ends just because of a little boo-boo? One time I stepped on a thorn, and it got infected. The vet and my people kept saying, "Rest, Oscar, rest!" Rest? All I wanted to do was play, even though I only had three good legs. There is, however, another way for you to spin this... You know what really helps dogs heal? Yep, that's right: dog treats. Lots of dog treats. You can tell your human I said so.

Thanks for the feedback about the post. Just a clarification: Allen didn't place that much emphasis on showing up; he actually said only 80 percent, not 90. He also said he's not trying to achieve immortality through his work (rather, he is trying to achieve it by "not dying"); he referred to himself as "at two with Nature"; and he said that money is better than poverty -- but only for financial reasons.

Hope your wrist feels better soon; I can't wait to go running around the yard! Best, Oscar

Downtown Dog Rescue

2010-09-28T14:54:00.001-07:00

Anyone in downtown Burlington on Sunday saw me racing in the city's prestigious Downtown 10K. Yes, that's right -- me... racing in an official, sanctioned event!

There are two reasons why you are unlikely to see me in events like this. For one, often dogs aren't allowed. Even if they are, there is great potential for entanglements and mishaps when you combine lots of people, a yellow dog, and a leash all in one place. Reason number two is that my human seems to think he races faster without me.

Well, I proved everyone wrong on both counts. First off, I was perfectly behaved, particularly at the start of the race. And I ran fast for pretty much the whole race -- which I ran in about 43 minutes: under a 7-minute-per-mile pace! I will note that I said "pretty much the whole race." That is because I did make one pee stop and one sniff stop at bushes. I also stopped twice to slurp water in puddles, and, on two occasions, I tugged my human strongly in the direction of squirrels.

And there was one other delay. At the intersection of North Avenue and Haswell Street, a brown puppy -- I assume a spectator -- got over-excited, and decided to join me in the race. His legs were going a mile a minute (they were about a fifth the length of mine, and he swerved right into the street and into traffic. I didn't catch his name, but I tell you what: that puppy would surely have been hit out there. Although we were competing, my human and I looked both ways, scooped up the puppy (who by this time was on his back totally freaked) and returned to the sidewalk.

Some kids walked towards us, until my human yelled for them to hurry up. (We were on the clock, you know?) He started to tell them to watch their dog more closely, but the girl said it wasn't her dog. "Well, someone should watch him!" Mark said, and turned back to the task at hand.

I am a little dismayed that someone wasn't paying closer attention to such a small puppy. But I hope all goes well and that he grows up to be a great runner... just like me.

State of Readiness

2010-09-21T08:06:00.001-07:00

I am always ready. For example, this morning I was sound asleep. Then my humans got up and the next thing you know, we were running 6 miles! And who was right there, leading the way? That's right, me. And on another day, I'll be sleeping and next thing you know they'll rouse me and shortly thereafter, we'll be hiking a mountain someplace. And is there any hesitation on my part? Any "Oh, not today, I'm too tired?" I think not!

Yesterday I was napping on my couch (notice the possessive "my" and not the article "the"? That's because, yes, the furniture here belongs to me.) Also, do you notice the common thread of me napping or sleeping leading up to all my adventures? That's because I always want to be well-rested; I'll never turn down the opportunity for a good nap (or run or snack or meal or belly-rub). Anyway, I was napping on the couch, when my human stood. You better believe I snapped to! Next thing you know, he was on his bike and I was running alongside... all the way down to the river! What a time!

Moral of the story: always be ready. Even if you don't feel like doing something, do it anyway. Take it from a yellow dog: you'll be glad you did.

Litter Bugs

2010-09-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

I do a lot of running on beautiful, dirt roads in my town. And I'm not going to lie; when I see a pile of trash on the side of the road, I am the first to check it out. This morning, for example, I was able to root through a Subway bag that someone tossed out their car window (got the last couple bites of a moldy turkey sandwich), lick the remains of a McDonald's take-out dinner, and eat two pizza crusts. Not bad for a morning run!

Still, I must say, there's something not right -- even to me -- with this picture. I have to wonder who is trashing their own planet like this? Don't get me wrong, I love the treats. But do these people not have trash cans? Are they just lazy? Who throws litter out their car windows in 2010? Apparently lots of people.

For my part, I just sort of scratch my head. My human, on the other hand, is more adamant. Here's what he says about it (and this is a quote from him -- a pup like me would never use this sort of language): "Hey litter bugs! Throw your !@#$%^ trash in a #$%^& garbage can!"

My snacks this morning were pretty tasty. But I guess everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion.

Oscar, Which do you prefer... running or hiking? Just curious, Foot Traveler

2010-08-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Traveler,

(Click on photos to enlarge)

This is a difficult question. Because I like both pursuits so much! You will notice, both running and hiking, the huge grin on my face. I'm not faking it; these are two activities that I love.

Take hiking. There I am, out in the woods, climbing mountains, scrambling over rocks. Unless we are up near a summit and there is fragile vegetation or the like, I am off the leash, prancing around, greeting other hikers, sniffing the smells, and wagging my tail. I stay mostly on the trail, but I'm free to wander wherever I want. So great!

Then there's running. How can you beat jogging along next to my people, out in the fresh air, along dirt roads, streets, trails, whatever? Sometimes, if it is a trail, I run off-leash, but I have to hand it to those people: they don't give a dog much time to be distracted. If you don't keep at it, they'll leave you behind. It's great fun.

On my running log, I do list the mileages of all my runs. I don't list nearly all the hikes, because we do so many. I try to note the most significant ones though.

But back to your question, the answer is yes. I love hiking and running. Equally. I'm an outdoor dog, and those are two very worthy outdoor pursuits.

Thanks for the question!
Oscar

Oscar, When you go swimming, why do you shake yourself dry when you're still in the water? -- Swim Coach

2010-08-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Coach,

When I get to go swimming, it is a special occasion. Not because I don't go swimming much; on the contrary, my humans have brought me to a lake or river every day this summer. Rather, it's because I get excited every time I get to swim, even though I get to swim daily! It's just the best, you know?

So anyway, there I am in the water. And, as everyone with head-to-toe fur knows, half the fun of swimming is the shake-the-water-off-your-fur as soon as you get out! Only in my case, I'm so excited about the swim and about the shake, that sometimes I forget to get out of the water before I shake!

See? Swimming is an exciting activity!

Hope that answers your question. Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, Is it me or do you seem sun-tanned? And do dogs need to worry about the sun’s ultra-violet rays? -- An SPF-wearing admirer

2010-07-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

Dear SPF,

I honestly don’t know, do you think I’m tan?

What I do know is that I have been living the life up here at the Aiken family camp on Lake Champlain. Hanging out all day on the deck, except when I get a little warm, then I amble down to the water and cool the old dog-temp back down. It’s great!

Although our extended time here is just about over, it is just refreshing to spend time next to the lake. Take Scout the cat, for example. At 14 years-old, he takes it easy ordinarily, often spending whole days in the basement. Up here, though, he’s like a cat who has recharged and rejuvenated himself by the sea! Socializing, mingling, wandering, napping, lazing right out in the open… he is rivaling me for out-and-out gregariousness.

Okay, that may be an exaggeration; I guess I win the gregarious department. As for your question, I have never concerned myself about too much sun. I mean, heck, I don't even own sunglasses! That said, I do seek shade and shelter on hot days. But that is probably more the result of the real issue: overheating. That’s something a dog needs to stay on top of, especially a runner like me. We generally do all of our summer running in the morning and we follow up with plenty of swimming.

And, take it from me, if you’re going to be running in the summertime, here at Camp is the place to do it.

Your friend, Oscar

Time Off For Good Behavior

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

Thomas Jefferson and the Founding Fathers could not have imagined a more perfect weekend for the 4th of July. Weather-wise, it was just perfect. Clear, sunny, hot. Perfect for sitting next to a lake, sipping cold drinks (or if you're me, slurping then slobbering them), and submerging yourself in the water every little while just to cool down.

I mean, we did a little more than just that. For example, on July 3rd, we hiked up Vermont's highest peak by sunset to watch 20 fireworks displays. They were all around us, and I somehow felt glad to be an American dog as I saw fireworks being shot off in Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York.

The next morning, we headed up to Camp in North Hero. But not before stopping in South Hero to run 12 miles (Ali and me -- 16 if you're crazy, I mean, Mark). Thus began the lake-dipping that would continue for the rest of the weekend.

Another thing that many onlookers noticed and commented on was my behavior this weekend. I mean, they discuss it right in front of me like I'm not there. Do they think I can't hear? Anyway, my parents and grandparents have barricades on the deck of the Camp designed to keep me from running off. Notwithstanding the fact that, if I wanted, I could go over or through the barricades or just knock them over, for the most part, they didn't even set them up this weekend. I never ventured across the street to that barn where the owner keeps his cat food uncovered. I came every time when called. I didn't jump on anyone that was elderly or carrying a baby. I was really good!

Listen, I don't want to go setting any bars overly high. Don't get your expectations up. I'll run off in a second if I feel like it.

Just telling it like it is. Happy July everyone!

Nice Death Racers

2010-06-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

I attended today's Death Race in Pittsfield, Vermont as a spectator. This event is the only one of its kind: designed to push people to their mental, physical, and psychological limits. I have to say, however, that Race participants maintained their composure incredibly well in the midst of the physically grueling, mentally frustrating, sleep-deprived event. For example, picture this: you get no sleep the night before, because the 10pm pre-race "meeting" lasts 12 hours and has you and your fellow competitors hauling gravel and bridges in order to maintain the trail over which you'd eventually run back-and-forth at least four times during the race. You're literally pulling yourself on your stomach through mud and muck under barbed wire and dragging your 50-pound backpack (filled with such required "equipment" as $50 in pennies and 10 pounds of onions) and a post-hole digger. A yellow dog (me!) approaches you, sticks his nose right in your face, and licks you. Do you freak out? Throw a tantrum? Holler at someone to get this #@%^&*! mutt away from you? Most mortals would. The Death Racers didn't. They reached through the barbed wire, careful not to add to the cuts already covering their bodies, pet me on the nose, and -- get this -- smiled. Amazing!

The most notable example of cruel mind games and graceful composure came after Neil Preston finished his wood-splitting task. Each competitor who deciphered the email sent in Greek (as in, the language) to all competitors advising them to bring an axe to the event had to split 25 to 30 green hardwood rounds (those less fortunate who didn't get the email had to cart countless loads of sheep manure from a stable to a distant manure pile). Neil was gathering himself before stacking his split wood and moving onto the next stage with a turkey sandwich and a Gatorade. I noticed half of his sandwich within reach and inhaled it in a single gulp. It happened so fast, I didn't even taste it going down (it looked good...). Neil had been racing for 16 hours and probably had at least 10 to go. "That half had too much mayonase anyway," was all he said when he realized what I had done.

My owner departed the Race scene shortly after this incident. Sleep deprivation, exhaustion, axes and other sharp tools... I think he read the writing on the walls. Racers (and race organizers, who had been awake as long as the racers) were getting punchy and annoyed, and since I didn't seem too apologetic, he got us out of there. I don't know why; that was a good sandwich.

Congratulations to all Death Racers -- even those who dropped out. That race is one of a kind -- as are its participants. And Neil... anytime you get overloaded with mayo in the future, just give me a call.

Dear Oscar, Do you have any special plans now that summer has officially begun? Yours truly, Summer-lover

2010-06-21T10:04:00.001-07:00

Dear Summer-Lover, Thanks for pointing out this very important holiday: the first day of summer!

And thank you for asking about my summer plans, because it is shaping up to be a busy -- and fun -- one. Specifically, my plans are as follows: swimming, running, sleeping, eating, canoeing, boating, hanging around, and playing. Yep, that about covers it.

Happy summer everyone!

Oscar

Rookie Sensation

2010-05-24T13:45:00.001-07:00

In the first 5K of his running career, Berkeley the beagle-lab mix pulled off an unbelievable 4th-place finish. The race was Phoebe's Phabulous Phive K in Williston, benefitting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Nobody was sure how the Berk-meister was going to do, but he just trotted right along next to me! He stopped to inspect three or four culverts along the way (even I stopped at the last one, in which we both took brief but refreshing dips -- at which point the eventual second-place finisher passed us) and he also took a water at the one water station on the course.

We most certainly would have tied for third place had Berkeley not decided to stop down the stretch to sniff a spectating dachsund. All the same, it was an amazing race with an incredible performance by a first-time finisher. (photo: the 1980 NBA Rookie of the Year)

Dear Oscar, Who is the dog I always see you playing with these days? Regards, Dog-Watcher

2010-05-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Watcher, Good times are here in Richmond. That's right -- I have a friend over! Berkeley, the lab/beagle mix is here for two weeks! As far as I'm concerned, he can stay as long as he wants (I haven't run this by my humans, but when do I ever run anything past them?)

Berkeley comes with me on all walks to the river (although he didn't join me swimming all the way across yesterday -- see photo below), he's available to romp and generally create dog-ruckus anytime, and I even slept on his dog-bed for awhile last night! One thing I noticed about Berkeley when he first arrived was that he is sort of a finicky eater; unlike me, he takes his time with his food. While he has gotten much more decisive about his eating habits since then, he still isn't as fast as me. I think it's unfair that, after I eat my almost-2 cups of food, I have to watch him while he finishes his 1 cup. Also, he hasn't had as much extensive running experience as me, but he still has stamina! Yesterday, we took him on our 5-miler. We went back and forth on our road so that we could bring him home if he showed any signs of exhaustion or lameness. But he kept right up no problem, and then we romped some more when we got home!

This is the best addition to our household since Waffle the cat!
Oscar

The Case of the Empty

2010-05-17T10:03:00.001-07:00

There is a mystery here in Richmond. The empty beer can in the accompanying photo was found on the living room floor. Study the photo closely and tell me what seems odd. That's right, folks; it is unopened. How, then, were its contents removed? Well, study closer. That's right; there is a small puncture just under the rim of the can.

Here in Richmond, sleuths working on the case have determined that whoever removed the contents of this beer can was highly intelligent -- or at least had a strong understanding of physics. That's because of what you can't see in the photo: there is another puncture hole identical to the one in the photo, but on the opposite side of the can. Clearly, whoever removed the contents knew that beer pours more smoothly and quickly with an air release.

Who could have done it? The full beer was apparently left on the table in the living room. Who has an opener that small? And what became of the beer? There was no sign of it anywhere.

If anyone has any information on the beer that was removed from this can, please (burp) let me know.

Oscar

Can Go Fast

2010-05-13T10:43:00.001-07:00

I have heard Mark say he doesn't like to run with me when he is in serious marathon-training mode. Something about my running style being too inconsistent, too stop-and-go, too slow. Well, first off, let me say that if he wants to "seriously" train for anything, he may want to lay off the Mountain Dew and heavy snacking. There, I said it.

However, I will also admit that there's some truth to what he says. But if he is honest, I'm sure he would have to admit that a run with me is far more interesting than a run without me. Am I inconsistent? Do I stop and go? Do I run all the time at his marathon pace? Yes, yes, and sometimes, respectively! I mean, seriously, why would I want to just go and go without stopping? Booorrring!

However, let the record show, that I can be a marathon-training dog. Today, for example, I went on a 6-miler with Mark. Let me take you through the run mile-by-mile.

Mile 1 -- 8:57 pace. Warm-up. Stopped to pee once, poop once, and sniff grass once.

Mile 2 -- 9:40 pace. Huge hill. Was a bit distracted. Mark muttered something about should have left dog at home.

Mile 3 -- 7:37 pace. Got focused. Still hilly. Kind of liked going fast.

Mile 4 -- 7:27 pace. Still hilly. Went even faster. No stops.

Mile 5 -- My favorite mile, because Mark took me off the leash so I could run in the Johnny Brook fields! Mark ran a 7:11 pace this mile, but I left him in the dust. If I had to guess, I would say I ran a 5:15 pace to the brook, swam a little, jumped out, sprinted around (probably an extra half-mile), and stood there waiting for him at the bridge over the brook. That's right; I was waiting for him.

Mile 6 -- 8:07 pace. Hills. And I thought he needed a cool-down.

So... can I run fast enough? I think yes.

Crazy Runners

2010-05-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

There I was, running on the Burlington Bike Path, right next to Lake Champlain. It was raining, snowing, and blowing like crazy -- what Winnie the Pooh would have called extremely blustery. Suddenly, there was no protection; we were right on the water. Waves were crashing into the seawall below us, spray was everywhere (see photo by Jan Leja). It was like being inside an automatic carwash... and I was the car!

Readers of this blog know how I feel about baths. That's right; I'm not a fan. So I am still confused as to how exactly I found myself in that situation.

Here's what I do know. A few weeks ago, it was 70 degrees and clear. Slightly warm by April standards, but we'll take it. Since then, we have had two significant snowfalls. That first one caught me a little off-guard; you see, a yellow dog like me lives completely in the here-and-now. A few weeks of springtime, and I pretty much forget what snow is! So, during that first April snowfall, I jumped out the front door and stopped short. I stood there all confused for a moment, before jumping around, rolling, and playing like a puppy! Because snow rules! I was, I must say, a little surprised that Mark and I didn't hike and ski at Stowe. But he's in full marathon-cramming mode right now. So did we ski? No. Did we go for a 4-mile run in snow that was blowing sideways? Yes.

But the warm weather returned... until today which, as I said, is snowy again. It's May 9th! And every year three Sundays before the Vermont City Marathon, the entire Run with Jan group gets together in Burlington and runs 20 miles of the 26.2-mile VCM course. Usually I get left behind because both my owners, avid marathoners usually run all 20 and I generally am not invited on runs of over 13 miles. Well, Ali just ran a marathon last weekend (amazing job, by the way, and I will take partial credit as her training partner) and only ran 10 today. So who got to come along? That's right, yours truly!

So that, I suppose, is how I found myself in the dogwash that is the Burlington Bike Path. I will mention that, otherwise, it was a great group run; super people, all running together, all bundled up, most doing high mileage... very unique to have this many people all deranged enough to go running in conditions like this!

Running along that stretch of the Bike Path was scary. I hugged the fence away from the waves as close as I could, put my tail and head down, and sort of jogged through. I am going to guess that Alison got more soaked than she would have if I hadn't been slowing her down, but I didn't know what to do! What are these crazy runners thinking? Most normal people were home watching movies. But we were out running in all sorts of weather! Who are these people?

Casino Night!

2010-04-26T05:30:00.001-07:00

It's the event everyone is talking about: Alison Aiken's final fundraiser to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Here's the deal:

As many readers of this blog (and Alison's fans) already know, Alison has spent the last several months training like a mad-woman for an Olympic distance triathlon -- the Mooseman -- to be held in Bristol, NH in June. She is participating with Team in Training and has pledged to raise $2800 in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. While most mortals spent the winter huddled around heaters and woodstoves, Alison has been out getting herself in killer shape and at the same time raising money for cancer research, which, as we all know, continues to claim and affect lives every day. Thank goodness some people like Alison and her TnT teammates are out there doing something about it... thanks to her hard work and the generosity of many people who have already donated, she has raised $1800 so far. Wow.

As a final push to reach her fundraising goal, Alison has announced "Casino Night" at Casa Aiken on Friday, May 21 at 6pm. Tickets are $20. Tickets are good for entry, refreshments, and -- most importantly -- CHIPS! People will furiously participate in different card and dice games -- or, for those who don't like cards or dice -- ping pong! At the end of the evening, an accounting will take place. Those with the most chips at the end win crazy prizes from places like Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, PetraCliffs Climbing Center, and many more.

I know what you are thinking. You are asking "How do I get a ticket!" Here's how:
1) Post a comment on this blog or email Alison regarding how many tickets you need.
2) Click here for Alison's TnT fundraising website to purchase your tickets -- $20 per ticket.
3) Tell all your friends!
4) Pick up your tickets, come to Casino Night, retrieve your chips, and start winning!

For now, join the rest of the world in wondering about the big questions: Will Alison pull out her Las Vegas showgirl outfit for the night? Will pit boss Mark rule the tables with an iron fist? Will Oscar the dog leave the refreshments alone? And, of course, the biggest question of all: who will be the big winner???

Contact Alison for questions about Casino Night!

A Good Buddy

2010-04-19T16:13:00.001-07:00

Hydrating at the summit of Camel's Hump
Hold everything. I need to say a few words about my good buddy Rufus. This dog had it all. Acres and acres of woods to run through. Pheasants hiding in cornfields. Turkeys in rolling hayfields. A human buddy who loved nothing more than taking him on hikes -- with pockets full of dog cookies. Rufus showed up 14 years ago, a Brittany Spaniel puppy, and he was a great friend to his people from the minute he stepped foot in the door.

Rufus has been a great friend and mentor to me my entire life. I hope that, in my youthful enthusiasm, I wasn't too in-his-face at times. If yes, he was far too considerate to ever mention it. Anyway, he joined me a couple years ago -- as a 12-year-old Brittany -- on a hike to the top of Camel's Hump. There was a whole group of really special friends and family who made the hike that day, a beautiful and crisp September day -- the kind that make you realize that summer is fading and another Vermont winter is on its way, even if a couple months off. I have to tell you, I am really glad that Rufus made the hike that day. We had such a great time! And despite his advancing age even back then, not once did I worry about him scrambling over rocks or tiring out. (If anything, it was his human that I was watching!)

Rufus was always light-footed, light-hearted, and always a great buddy. Once in awhile, there are dogs who -- just by being born -- make the world a better place. Rufus was definitely one of them.

We'll miss you, Rufus. Thanks for being our buddy.

Dear Oscar, Congratulations on your selection as Vermont Sports Magazine's "Wagger Athlete of the month." Will your fame affect your life? -- A Fan

2010-03-30T03:31:00.000-07:00

Dear Fan, Thanks for reading the magazine -- it was a fine piece of reporting (with a captivating subject, if I do say myself). Click here to read the interview online. Also, don't miss the informative article by my human in the same issue (the annual April "dog" issue) about running with your dog.

As for how the fame will affect my life, it shouldn't -- except for the usual obligatory phone interviews and tour of the national talk show circuit. Maybe some cameo appearances in some TV sitcoms, you know the sort of thing. Otherwise, I'll be running, hiking, and playing just like usual.

Photo: here I am waiting for my humans on a hike last weekend. Photo courtesy of Ruth!

Your friend, Oscar

Weight Loss

2010-03-28T18:37:00.001-07:00

Well, it's official. At my vet appointment last week, the backup vet (Dr. Dan, my usual vet, had the day off) proclaimed that I was "overweight."

My human was aghast. "Overweight?" he said. "Do you realize how far this dog runs?" She didn't, but it didn't matter. She pointed to my sides, where my ribs were not visible. One should, she explained, be able to feel a dog's ribs easily when one rubs a dog's sides. My ribs were in there, but you really had to press to feel them.

I didn't mind all the rubbing, but I did mind what came next. "Are we over-feeding him?" my human asked.

Whoa there, buddy! Let's not get carried away! We are talking about winter fat; it will disappear after about 2 weeks of spring-time activity. It's like I've been saying all along: it's not about feeding the dog less. It's about feeding him more, and then letting him run around more.

"Less" is not the answer. "More" is!

A Tale of Two Baths

2010-03-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'd like to vent a little something that has been frustrating me lately. Two times in the last three weeks-- count them, twice! -- when I have returned to the house after little adventures in the woods behind our house, my humans have greeted me by smelling me and immediately forcing me to take a (gasp) sponge bath. The humiliation! The shame!

The good news in this story is, with the great maturity I have demonstrated in this third year of my existence, they do let me cruise around a little bit as long as I wear a collar with their contact information and my bell (see photo). As long as I return within what they consider a reasonable amount of time (and believe me, in their minds "reasonable" means "brief"), they're fine.

Again, that's the good news. Meanwhile, back to the baths. Yes, prior to both, I did roll in something dead. And so what if I did? Is a little rotten raccoon so bad? They just don't get it, you know? Read my lips: I... don't... mind... smelling... like... carrion!

Believe me, I'd rather smell like dead coyote than be subjected to a bath. And, if you don't mind me saying, the fresh sheets on their (read: "my") bed could certainly use a little deadening up. Sheesh. What does a dog have to do to get through to people? Helloooo... I do not like your baths, okay? Brother!

Dear Oscar, I noticed that you recently sponsored your red-headed human's...

2010-02-18T16:49:00.000-08:00

... fund-raising triathlon in the amount of $10. I was wondering where you got the money and why you only donated $10? Also, I noticed that one of the cats you live with donated too. Where did he get the cash, and why didn't the other cat donate as well? This is an extremely important cause, you know. -- A Fan in Montana

Dear Fan,

You are right; supporting cancer research and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society IS an important cause, which is why, of course, I donated. Ali has been training for months with a team of fund-raising athletes for the Mooseman Triathlon in New Hampshire. To donate, click here.

As for where I get my money, this is obvious: I steal it from my humans. Like their internet and DSL service, I take it when they aren't watching. Although I have never asked him, I believe Scout, who also donated, gets his money the same way. Likewise, I am unsure of where Waffle gets his money, but I do know where he spends all of it: on booze.

Looking forward to seeing everyone's names up there with mine on Alison's fund-raising website!

Oscar

GOOD LUCK ALISON!

2010-02-05T14:44:00.000-08:00

Have a great race!

Your training partner, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I love to run too, but I am rather new to the concept of a leash since I was homeless for most of my life (I'm 11 months old)...

2010-02-02T19:31:00.000-08:00

...until I found my new family about a month and a half ago. My mom takes me walking daily and to the dog park almost daily. She likes to run and has taken me on jogs a few times. I run at a good speed with her, but I zig zag a lot and want to stop and sniff a lot which drives her nuts. She found this new contraption called a Halti which helps us walk together a lot better. But she's not sure if it would be nice for me if I wear it when we go running. Do you think it would impede my panting if I wore it running? Thanks for your expert opinion! -- Ruby (part whippet and part beagle)

Dear Ruby, First off, congrats on finding your new family. That is an exciting development! Secondly, it's great that your human takes you on walks and to the dog park so frequently. In a short span of time, you have trained her well -- nice work!

The running is also great. And, as long as your human sticks with it, I think you'll get less distracted when you go for real runs. Seriously, right now you're just 11-months-old! What 11-month-old puppy can focus enough to go for a run without stopping to explore? So just stay with it, and eventually, you'll calm down. As a highly mature 3-year-old (why is everyone snickering when I describe myself as "mature"?), I know the difference between a walk, a run, or a play in the dog park. And I know when I can stop often or when it's best to stay focused. That said, I always make sure to stop to pee or sniff something -- or even to try to chase a squirrel -- a few times on every run. To establish who's really in charge.

As for the Halti, I do not endorse any products on this blog -- unless they offer full blog sponsorship (please contact my agent). Hey, every dog has his price! Pictures I have seen of the Halti harness, however, don't indicate to me that it would be restrictive. I say try it. Or, your human may want to try what my humans do (see photo). They clip the leash to my collar, then wrap it around my belly or chest. That way, if I pull, rather than choking me, it squeezes my belly and reminds me to let up. It's not mean, it is simple, and it works.

Bottom line: you're out there running and having fun -- that's the most important thing. Oh... and the other most important thing: you are reading the right blog. Ruby, as far as this dog is concerned, you are on the right track.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, Why did you delete your last post? -- Curious.

2010-02-01T16:59:00.000-08:00

Dear Curious,

I hated to do it. But I guess even yellow puppies aren't safe from spammers. That's right: a slimey scummy spammer posted a comment on the last post and in his/her/its user ID name was a link -- probably to some slime-ball gross spam site.

Anyway, as much as I liked the post because it told how much I love snow, I just got rid of the whole thing.

You know why? Because I think spammers are slimey, scummy dufus-brains. And they smell.

Everyone else out there, however, is fine with me, though.

Mind your own business, spammers. Wags to everyone else.

Oscar

Dear Oscar, Why is there a bicycle in your kitchen? A Concerned Observer

2010-01-19T14:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Concerned,

Believe me, I ask myself the same question almost every day. First off, the bike is located directly in the path to my dog dish -- inconvenient to say the least! Secondly, what good does a stationary bike do me? What am I going to do, jog in place alongside my human while she pedals and goes nowhere? As if!

Here's the scoop. Alison is training for an Olympic distance triathlon (see her site). She started mentioning to Mark that she wanted a bike trainer to help prepare for the cycling portion of the Tri. Mark just rolled his eyes: he had once owned a trainer. He spent hundreds on it when he lived in Bolton, rarely used it, then sold it at a loss at a ski swap. "Here we go again," he figured, adding up how much money he was about to throw away on Trainer Number Two.

Then one day, Mark brought me to the Dump. I like the Dump because they always give me dog cookies there. Anyway, after he unloaded our trash and recycling, he glanced inside the "Reuse Room." And what did his wondering eyes behold? Eight tiny reindeer and a bike trainer (the reindeer were part of a Christmas light display)!

So now Ali is riding her bike in the kitchen. (Please note: we actually have two, not one, bike trainer... we have another one on loan now too). It is kind of noisy, and it's not at all like bike-riding outside. Mainly because you don't feel a breeze or see scenery flying past. And you just don't have a yellow puppy bounding alongside you as you pedal.

Ride on,
Oscar

Dear Oscar, While we know you not to be a resort traveler, we were wondering if you could answer a snowmaking question for us...

2009-12-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

... Why is it that on very cold days, fine, low-lying clouds form near snowmaking guns? Can you explain this? Your friends at the Stowe Adventure Center

Dear AC Friends,

First, let me set the record straight. I have been known to frequent ski resorts... after lifts stop running for the season! In fact, just last spring, I hiked up the trails of your very own Stowe Mountain Resort and joined my human in skiing from the top of the Chin. In fact, I have even visited the Adventure Center! Of course, I would never do that when you were open for business; that place is too crazy for me during business times.

As for the thin, blanket-like clouds that you get on snowmaking mornings, here's the deal. The phenomenon you refer to is known as "ice fog." In nature, you don't get ice fog until temperatures reach minus-40 Fahrenheit or colder. When it is extremely cold, there is generally high relative humidity too. A cold air mass can't carry much vapor. So when it gets really cold, the slightest amount of moisture causes ice fog. On the South Pole, for example, exhaust from aircraft or from the power plant at the South Pole Station cause plumes of fog because they saturate the cold, cold air with moisture.

On Mt. Mansfield where temperatures aren't nearly so cold, the ice fog you are experiencing is the result of the super-cooled water droplets introduced to the air by your snowmaking guns. A lot of energy goes into cooling these droplets as they come out of the guns. And, the water from the guns speeds the process of saturating the air with moisture, increasing the relative humidity. The result is the low-lying grey blanket that covers the mountain on cold, clear mornings after long snowmaking nights.

You may wonder how I know so much about snowmaking, the South Pole, and ice fog. The answer: I know snowmakers, South "Polies," and my brain is sometimes foggy. (Also, thanks to weather-expert John Gallagher for his input.)

And last thing: my apologies for taking so long answering this question. I was busy with my Christmas shopping.

Think snow, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I am going to be celebrating my first Christmas. I'm putting the finishing touches on my list for Santa and was wondering...

2009-12-19T14:57:00.000-08:00

...what some of your favorite presents have been. Merry Christmas, Gracie

PS My owners won't even let me in the room with the Christmas tree. I know it smells good - but how does it taste?

Dear Gracie,

As you will learn, the holidays are a wonderful time of year... mostly because of the food opportunities that arise! In my case, for example, my humans don't feed me any human food. But they prepare a lot of food at this time of year. And when they cook, food falls on the floor. It's inevitable.

Two presents stand out for me. One wasn't exactly a Christmas present; it was a Thanksgiving present. But doesn't the "holiday" season officially begin with Thanksgiving? Anyway, last year for Thanksgiving (which happened to fall on my birthday), I got a kitten! My little brother Waffle first joined our household then. What a gift! Also, closer to Christmas last year, you won't believe the present Alison gave me. She made home-made dog biscuits! Wow! But there's more. She didn't just make me dog biscuits; she made biscuits for every dog she knows. She put them on the counter to cool, forgot about them, and then went out for the evening. Can you believe it? Obviously, it was good karma that befell me for being such a good dog all year!

Yes, I ate every cookie off the counter. What a night.

As for the question about the tree, I have one piece of advice before you start really checking it out: blame any damage on the cat.

Happy Holidays -- and best wishes for a good haul on your first Christmas!
Oscar

Snow!

2009-12-12T03:11:00.000-08:00

As a dog, I don't watch the news or read the weather in the paper. But I am quite aware of the turn of events of the last week... it's winter!

Don't get me wrong; I haven't been complaining about the sunny 50-degree days we've been enjoying. There are lots of interesting smells out there when it's like this. My main complaint is that, during hunting season, my humans restrict some of my walks, I rarely get to run around in the woods, and I have to wear that silly orange vest.

But hunting season is mostly over, and we have woken up to fresh new snow pretty much every day this week! I may be 3 years old (and wise beyond my years, if I do say so myself), but you better believe I've been showing off my best puppy-prance everytime I stick my nose in the fluff. This dog's tail is wagging!

I just can't wait to start hiking the mountains and skiing the backcountry. I know that's a ways off (we'll need more snow), but I'm still excited. I am a dog that loves winter. I remember my first hike in the snow. I had just arrived from my birthplace of Virginia, my pads were soft and tender, and the March corn snow cut my pads. But I'm a little more grown up now... and tougher. So let's celebrate everyone... it's winter!

Happy Birthday...

2009-11-26T05:59:00.000-08:00

...to me!!!

It was three years ago that a stray yellow lab-hound mix gave birth to four puppies and me in Virginia! Then 4 months later I moved to Vermont! Let the celebration begin!

New Artwork on Display

2009-11-23T04:39:00.001-08:00

There is an exquisite new artistic offering on display here at my house in Richmond, Vermont -- a beautiful rug with an amazing design: me!

The rug is really incredible, with amazing detail. Ever since Ali got it hung in our TV room, I keep thinking I'm looking in the mirror whenever I see it. The rug was hooked by master artist Jill Aiken. She made it as an anniversary gift for my humans, but I think we all know she really meant it as a tribute to me, 2009's Most Valuable Yellow Dog.

It's quite an honor to be preserved for eternity on a rug. But I think I deserve it. Thanks Jill!

Dear Oscar, Should Bill Belichick have gone for it on 4th and 2? -- A Diehard New England Fan

2009-11-21T18:28:00.000-08:00

Dear Fan, Why are you asking me? I don't know anything about football! I'm a dog, for goodness sakes!

However, I did happen to be in a room with a TV that had the game on when the now-infamous 4th-and-2 situation arose. My human stood on the couch with his entire fist in his mouth. After the play -- and the remaining few plays of the game -- he went into a state of semi-shock and denial... similar to what I witnessed in the first week of February 2008.

As for whether the coach should have gone for it, I have only this to say: Sometimes my humans leave me alone in the house. Sometimes -- not often, but sometimes -- they leave food out. Like Mark will leave his lunch box within my reach and in it, there will be a granola bar that he didn't finish. Or other times, I'll find a ziploc bag of dog cookies in a jacket or backpack pocket on the mudroom bench.

I know there will be consequences for my actions. Sometimes I even regret it later, like when my humans come home, find the remains of the granola bar wrapper, and I hang my head and tail.

But every instinct in my body told me to do it, and you have to listen to your instincts. So that's all I have to say: listen to your instincts. Coach B and the rest of your team, keep doing what you're doing. Don't listen to all those critics. Your instincts are almost always right.

Thinking about becoming an NFL analyst,
Oscar

Full Moon

2009-11-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

Every month, my humans get a message from their friend Heather. "It's time," the message will say, "for a FULL MOON party."

The parties have become legend. Always outdoors, always around a fire, they also always incorporate fun, friends, and good people. Usually food, too. By the way, I'm not just talking about friends for the humans, either. I'm talking dogs and lots of them!

And when the message came for last night's party, I was extra excited. When my humans went away last weekend to follow some rock 'n' roll band, my friend Berkley brought Heather over for the weekend. Here it was, only a few days later, and I got to see them again! I should mention that I had a fabulous weekend, and it was also a great Full Moon party. Although I admit that I got a little distracted last night and didn't play and romp quite like I usually do. Yes, I couldn't help myself; I kept trying to eat everyone's chips and hot dogs. Not exactly behavior that I'm proud of, looking back, but I guess I was hungry at the time!

At the end of the night, rather than get into my human's car, I jumped into Heather and Berkley's Subaru! What can I say? I had fun last weekend! Thanks again Heather!

A New Mouser

2009-10-28T05:54:00.001-07:00

You might think I have an easy life, but I beg to differ. Without me, where would this household be? I'm the one who greets everyone who comes near the house -- friend or foe. Who constantly stands guard over this property, regardless of the hour? Thats' right, me. (You might call it sleeping, but think of one time that I didn't wake up the instant someone put their little toe on our driveway. That's what I thought.) And who keeps people healthy, active, and in shape around here by constantly being ready (and insistent) to go outside for walks, rides, runs, or skis? Again, yours truly.

In short, I am the glue that holds this household together.

I'm sad to say that I can't say the same for the cats in this household. All they do is lay around and act lazy. Their sole contribution is to keep the local rodent population under control (such menial work, in my opinion). And, for awhile, I even questioned how well they were keeping up with that one simple task. Now Scout, of course, our 13-year-old mouser has a reputation to fall back on. You can't argue with 13 years of results. Not only is he efficient, he is generally in the habit of lining his victims next to his cat dish. Recently, however, Scout was banned from eating regular cat-food, in lieu of "old-cats" food (it's rather tasty -- I have tried it). But, because Waffle and I are very interested in Scout's new diet, he now eats in the bathroom. At his age, how humiliating! So, I think he may have gone on strike for awhile. And besides, where is he supposed to line up his kills now that he doesn't eat at the bottom of the basement steps? I think Scout actually enjoys mousing, so he recently got back at it. But he left the dead mouse behind the front room couch. He's still confused about what to do.

Waffle, on the other hand, has been a free-loader since the day he arrived. In, out, in, out. Meow, I want this. Purr, I want that. Never have I seen a bigger slacker. Kitten sleeps all day, then goes outside to party all night. Until my human Alison made a discovery a few days ago. Or should I say "discoveries": she found 4 dead mice in the backyard. Well, now, little kitten, maybe you have been making yourself useful!

Well, I'm glad to see I'm not the only one shouldering the load around here. But, make no mistake about it: I am the most important personality in this household -- two-legs or four. And that's not just my opinion; that's a fact.

Hurricane Hike

2009-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

Mount Mansfield may be just 4393 feet high, but it acts like a much bigger mountain than that sometimes. As a dog who has skied from the summit, I feel I am an adequate judge. But never have I been up there on a day like last Saturday. It felt like a hurricane up there!

I first noticed the wind when we got out of the car. Everyone was gearing up for a nice autumn walk, but I was watching the treetops. They were going crazy! I, of course, didn't say anything, because I was just excited for a hike. And I think the whole group was excited: we had my usual humans, Ali and Mark, we had Doug McKain with his photographic trail-memory, Ruth Penfield who chronicled the journey on film (in fact, all photo credits on this post go to her), and Ryan McKain who was visiting for a little weekend hiking and fishing.

We went up the Laura Cowles trail because we thought it might be a little better sheltered than some of the other routes. Sheltered? Maybe. Dry? Uh...no. Water was pouring down that trail like a river! Again, it didn't bother me; I just slopped right through it and drank whenever I wanted. I found myself in somewhat of an ironic situation; I was carrying two small water bottles in my dog-backpack. Yet everywhere we went, water was seeping out of that mountain!

At the top, the wind was blowing 75 mph. The view was great, if your definition of "great view" is 15-feet of visibility with wispy grey fog flying past you. My ears and lips flapped in the wind, and everyone's jackets filled with air. They looked like a bunch of weight-lifters, their jackets were so poofed out!

Rather than descend the exposed Sunset Ridge Trail, we walked the Mt. Mansfield ridge to the Canyon North Extension to the Halfway House trail. The Halfway House was nice, but the Canyon Extension was slippery and kind of treacherous. I was a little nervous and at one point refused to climb over some slippery rocks -- even when someone offered me cookies. Hey, I like dog cookies, don't get me wrong. But not enough to die for. They're not steaks, you know.

Anyway, we got past the sketchy spots. I had a great time bounding around in the woods and hanging out with our group. One nice thing about the weather was that there were very few people hiking Saturday. To go up there on a day like that, you have to be seriously deranged... or you must must really like hiking.

Doors

2009-09-09T05:40:00.001-07:00

In my puppy days, my humans had a plan. They fenced off a section of the yard and they closed the door from the porch to the house. When they had to leave me home alone (something I can't say I necessarily approve of -- after all, why wouldn't they want to bring a yellow puppy wherever they were going?), I had a safe space to be with an indoors and an out.

Fast forward to September 2009. The porch has been finished off and is now part of the house. There is no door separating the two. So when I get left alone, it's either in or out. While I love being outdoors, I don't love my yard. It's too... familiar. So I always choose to remain indoors (that way, if I need to use the phone or, for example, type up a blog entry, I can).

And, I should clarify the word "alone." I have never been left completely "alone." Scout the cat and Waffle the kitten are always here with me. And herein lies the problem. I am content, when I'm home alone, to sleep on a couch or bed. Waffle -- the new generation pet -- is more of an instant-gratification cat. If he's outdoors and he wants in, he wants in now. Which is why he has been scratching furniture, walls, doors, and so forth. The most obvious example: he has completely destroyed the weather stripping on the exterior door between the porch room and the yard. It's shredded.

And so our humans went to Lowe's home center on the Vermont tax-free holiday a few Saturdays back. They purchased a screen door... with a pet door! Whee-hoo! Now when they leave (as long as the weather's warm), we pets can be indoors or outdoors at our leisure! We have total control of our destinies!

Except for one thing: the Lowe's people who are supposed to install the door never call us. It's been almost three weeks! So they still have the door and Waffle is still scratching. I suppose, now that everyone knows Waffle is the culprit, I could try to blame him for some of the other shenanigans that go on around here: the granola bars that keep getting eaten... the backpacks that get chewed up if anyone leaves dog cookies inside them... the vegetables that get picked out of the veggie basket on the counter...

But I would feel bad pinning those on an innocent kitten. So I'll stick to my original story. It was aliens! They buzzed down in a spaceship, opened the door with their space blasters, chewed the backpack, and ate the dog cookies! I told them to pick up after themselves, but they just ran back to the spaceship and flew away!

Oh boy. I just hope we get this door installed soon.

Oscar

Waffle and his weather stripping project (click on photo for a close-up of the shreddage)

Dear Oscar, I am a sports nerd who studies stats. Like in baseball, I keep track of a pitcher's ERA against left and right-handed batters...

2009-08-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

...among other meaningless numbers. Anyway, in studying your Running Log, I noticed that you don't seem to be running much so far this month. What's up, are you getting soft in your old age? -- A Nerdy, But Devoted Fan

Dear Fan,
First off, I am almost 3 years old. In dog years, I am just about "college-aged." Which, we all know, often can signify a decrease in meaningful productivity (which isn't to say it's not a time of productivity; said productivity during this timeframe is simply not meaningful!)

This is not, however, the case with me. I too have noticed the drop in miles, and I am not pleased about it. My humans continue to follow a course of long runs on Sundays and track workouts later in the week. I am not included in these workouts, and, as you can imagine, I call "Foul."

They have, however, incorporated a new practice to our schedules: the "bike ride to the river." What they will do is bring me down to the garage, grab a mountain bike, and then ride to the river. I, meanwhile, run full-speed next to them on their bikes. It is FUN! And it isn't too time-consuming for them, so I have been making way more trips to visit and swim in the Winooski! It is an interesting new twist in our exercise relationship; they can keep up with me on those two-wheelers. It's sort of like backcountry skiing without the uphill part. Finally, an activity we can truly do together. Seriously, the runs are good, but can you humans please pick it up a couple of notches? Sheesh, it's like running with a bunch of turtles!

In other news, I am pleased to report that I have lost the designation of "Most Destructive" at my residence in Richmond, Vermont! That designation now falls on Waffle the kitten, who has destroyed the weather stripping around the back door, countless toilet paper rolls, a couch -- and who walks on the heads of my humans from 2:30AM until daylight. I'm surprised they put up with it -- the head-walking, I mean. I stopped sleeping on the bed months ago. Once I see that kitten show up at night, I don't mess around -- I'm outta there. It's on the floor for me. I don't have time to be losing any sleep.
Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I work with this really cute girl, but don't know if I should ask her out. What should I do? Jonesin' for Love, Jim

2009-08-10T15:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Jonesin’ Jim,

Before I started writing my own blog, if you'd have told me I'd be giving out dating advice, I wouldn't have believed you. The things people ask a dog with a blog!

Okay then. Listen to me Jim, and listen carefully: when I see something I want (and bear in mind, these things are generally food-related), I do one of two things. Usually, I don’t think; I just go for it. It’s there; why not take it? For example, the other day, someone left some cupcakes on the counter. You think I hemmed and hawed and wondered what to do (like you're doing)? Of course not! I put my front paws on the counter and started licking. By the time my human realized what was up, I had already licked all the frosting off the first cake. Yummm!

Maybe you aren't a man of action. Which is okay; indecision is appropriate in many situations (although I can't think of what situations these are... but I hope I'm making you feel better). Anyway, sometimes when my first approach doesn't work, I go to plan B. That's right... I beg! I’m not ashamed. If I think it’s dinner time, I have no qualms about scratching on the door to get attention. When my human comes over to let me out, I trot right over to my food dish and give the most pathetic look I can. Before begging this cutie of yours, however, I recommend practicing your pathetic look. You want to give her a real guilt complex -- like she is your last hope. You don’t want to give her any excuses for turning you down. Where’s my dignity, you ask? I don’t want dignity; I want food. Priorities, Jim.

I hope you find this advice helpful. If you don’t get the girl, at least you should be able to score your next meal. These methods have never failed me.

Regards, Oscar

Dear Oscar, School starts again in less than a month! Yikes! What is the best way for me to protect my schoolbooks? Thanks, A Scared Student

2009-08-06T08:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Student, Don't be scared. School is nothing to be afraid of. Well, I guess that's easy for me to say; I've never been to school. Those obedience training places where they bring puppies? Never went. Are you surprised?

As for your schoolbooks, how am I supposed to know? Try not drooling on them for starters. That should help protect them. I have seen kids on my street going to school with books that have homemade book covers. They appear to have been made out of paper grocery bags -- an excellent example of re-using resources.

I have only read one book (pictured above), and I didn't read the whole thing. Pawing through the pages, I was appalled to discover it was about an undisciplined yellow dog who chewed all his owner's belongings. Not exactly subject matter I approve of, now is it?

However, I don't believe in censorship or book burning (or other forms of book-destruction) either. But I couldn't just let this slide, could I? Here's what I did: Very carefully, I chewed the lower corner of the book (see photo), even though it was on loan to my human. It was my way of clarifying how I felt about the topic.

I think I made my point. At least, my human never returned it. She said she was too embarrassed that it was all chewed up. This is a lie. I much prefer to believe she didn't think people should be making fun of dogs who don't come when called.

Hope this helps. Enjoy what's left of your vacation.

Oscar

Dear Oscar, How does the heat of summer affect a dog while running? And are you still training as much as always? Your friend, Dwight

2009-08-03T07:46:00.001-07:00

Dear Dwight, They say that heat affects dogs more acutely than it affects humans. I say this is ludicrous. Heat or no heat, I have never seen a human who can outrun me. I mean, I'm not saying I would try to run through the Sahara or anything; I'm just giving you the facts. What I would say is this: don't forget to drink lots of water and to save some for your dog. Also, I have no qualms about plopping my whole self into a pond, puddle, lake, or stream that I might encounter on a hot summer day mid-run. I love trying to run through a puddle and drinking on the fly. But that's not just in the heat; that's anytime!

As far as my current training, no, I'm not running quite as much as usual, and I'm bitter. Here's the deal: my humans are at that point in their current marathon training when they are running longer distances on Sundays. 14, 16, 18, and 20 milers. And their rule is that I don't go on runs of over 13 miles. This is hogwash! And I let them know it last week by chewing Alison's backpack (again). I also ate her Shot Blocks -- very tasty, thank you. Also, they are incorporating track workouts into their regimen. That means they actually time themselves over set distances. Last week they did 4 800 yarders at the South Burlington High School track. And they didn't bring me. They seem to think I can't focus enough to run hard for those distances.

Well, they're right... but why would I want to!?! When I run, I want to smell a bush every now and again, check out a squirrel, or pause at puddles. I don't know who gave them the silly idea that speed workouts will improve their marathon times, but I would like to have a word with whoever it was.

So, no, I seem to be getting left behind a little bit these days, and, let me tell you, I am not too pleased about it.

Regards, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I just looked over your running log. Those are alot of miles! Do you get any exercise beyond that listed on the log? A Fan from 'Frisco

2009-07-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Fan,
The Running Log isn't the half of it! Listen. The runs I put down in the Log are the runs I do on my leash with my humans. They know how far they go, and I can get that information by listening to them gripe about it later ("Wow, that was the hardest four miles of my life!" or "Wow, that sure seemed longer than seven miles!"). So I record those runs in my running log. The real exercise in my life comes when I am off my leash, running in the fields around my house or playing in the yard. But I'm a dog; I don't care about mileages, target heart rates, or calories burned. Because I can't really quantify those more intensive workouts (and because they happen like three to eight times a day!), I don't usually write them in the Log.

Don't think I don't enjoy running with my humans; on the contrary, I love it! Take this morning, for example. It was a beautiful morning, and we ran a couple of Richmond dirt roads. At one point, we came out from under the canopy of pine trees into some rolling fields. We could see Camel's Hump off in the distance. I jogged through some puddles in the drainage ditch alongside the road while we ran. Anyone who drove by us could see by the huge grin on my face that I was having a great time.

I don't really care what form my outdoor activity takes: running free in the fields, running on a leash, swimming in the river or lake, hunting, or just heading out on a lazy walk on the leash. It's all great activity, and I'll take it every time it comes my way.

Your friend, Oscar

Dear Oscar, I like drawing. What is your favorite summer activity? Yours truly, Pam

2009-07-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Pam, I am a dog of many interests -- only one of which is opening up mail from readers such as yourself and writing responses on this blog. Thank you for your question, and don't be afraid to keep them coming.

We are deep into what are known as the "dog days of summer." And they are properly named; summer is all about being a dog. Here is a list of some of my favorite summer activities:

-- Sleeping
-- Running on the roads with my humans
-- Running on the trails with my humans
-- Running in the fields without my humans
-- Running in the woods without my humans
-- Swimming
-- Sitting in the sun
-- Playing with Waffle the kitty
-- Eating
-- Snacking

Yep, that about covers it. Summer sure is a nice season. Enjoy!
Your friend, Oscar

(Note: Photo by Judy Robinson)

A Recommendation

2009-07-10T09:26:00.001-07:00

In case you are thinking of hurling yourself from a moving vehicle, I don't recommend it. And I should know; I tried it this morning at 35 miles per hour on the road to the Aiken Camp.

Please, not all at once; I'll answer your questions one at a time...

-- Yes, I ran the automatic window down with my paw.
-- Yes, I voluntarily jumped out my own window.
-- Yes, I rolled rear-end over teakettle when I hit the pavement.
-- No, I was not seriously injured, other than a couple of scratches.
-- Yes, it scared me and yes, I ran into the woods and eventually several miles down to someone's camp on the OTHER side of Route 2 (the crossing of which was probably even more dangerous than jumping out the window)
-- Yes, I played with the kids at this camp for over an hour while Mark and Ali searched the bogs, swamps, and poisen ivy patches of North Hero, figuring I was dead.
-- Yes, the guy whose camp I landed at found Mark and Ali's phone number on my dog tags, and yes, the guy's brother plays hockey with Mark on Monday nights!
-- No, I don't know what I was thinking.
-- No, I don't plan on repeating the stunt. Even if I did, I doubt my humans will ever let me sit next to another open window.

THANK YOU: to Matt Tomberg and Kate and Ian Thurston for searching the roads for me when they heard about my accident. Also to Mary for her great guidance to my owner and to Frank and my good friend Fanny who joined the search IMMEDIATELY upon hearing about my situation.

I think most people would have advised against such a stunt. But sometimes a dog just wants to try to figure things out for himself.

Dog Vacation!

2009-06-30T06:36:00.001-07:00

You won't believe what happened. My humans, Mark and Ali, went on vacation. That's not the unbelievable part... sheesh, let me finish.

They brought me with them!!!

Not Scout, not Waffle, not anyone else. Just me! Isn't that the best???

We went down to Cape Cod. Mark went ahead, some sort of writers' conference or something. Ali and I came a few days later in the blue Honda. She had that thing loaded with bikes, beach stuff, running stuff, dog stuff. There was barely room for me in the back!

Anyway, I was on my best behavior on the way down, and when we got there, wouldn't you know it? We stayed with my good friend Andy the Aeredale! Andy and I played and romped pretty much for 72 straight hours. I think we paused to sleep and eat. Meanwhile, I got to visit the ocean (wow those waves were big, and wow, did that water not taste good), run on the beach (on my leash), play in the yard... yup, that's about it. Can you imagine a better vacation?

Mark and Ali, meanwhile, swam in a beautiful pond (no dogs allowed, which was too bad, but Andy and I occupied ourselves by standing by the fence and barking while they were gone) and went on and on about how great all the food was.

I highly recommend Cape Cod. Lots of trails, the ocean, the beach... and good friends to visit. My humans are already talking about the Caribbean. I can't wait!

Dear Oscar, My owners just had someone measure my yard for a fence. A fence! Help! Why are they doing this to me? What did I do? Regards, Riley

2009-06-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Riley,

Just calm down, buddy! First off, repeat five times:

I may be the dog, but I am really the master...
I may be the dog, but I am really the master...

Feel a little better? Good dog. Okay then, just to let you know, you can always find a weak link in your fence. And even if the installer is that good (which is highly unlikely), have no fear. Your own human (the dope!) will mistakenly leave the gate open just long enough for you to bound through to freedom. Repeatedly.

The important point here, once again, is to give your humans the illusion that they control your life. It makes them feel better to believe this. I know the "sit, stay, come" bit can be tedious, but throw the human a beer once in awhile (note the play on the old "throw the dog a bone" saying). Let them believe, and then they'll let their guard down. And next time you see a dead carcass in a field somewhere, boy will it be worth it. Roll away, baby!

So don't sweat the fence. You're just as free as you ever were, and those saps are feeding you Milk Bones to boot.

Have a good day, Oscar

PS Riley, on another note, I hope you're feeling better. You and your owners are really an inspiration. Best wishes!

Dear Oscar, I have been reading about the health and cleansing benefits of juice fasting...

2009-06-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

...I am more intrigued, however, by your more unorthodox approach of eating unscented goat's milk soap instead. Is this a method you regularly engage in before a big marathon? Would you recommend it to others? And is it FDA-approved? Regards, Solomon Katz

Dear Solomon, This blog post will no doubt be the only time you see the words "Oscar" and "fast" together in this context. A much more likely context would be: "Wow, Oscar sure did eat his dinner fast!"

Let the record show that I see NO benefits of any kind that might come from fasting. And believe me, I've tried; I fast every day between my morning meal and my evening meal, and let me tell you, it stinks. This is not, of course, to say that I'm against sucking down someone's juice if they leave it around. But to purposely not consume hard food? That's crazy talk.

In regard to the soap I ate before the marathon, it was the same color as bacon fat, so I thought I better eat the whole bar, just in case. According to the Poison Center (which my humans contacted when they saw the torn up wrapper), there was nothing in the soap that could kill me. It may have been cleansing (like your juice fast), but I still don't recommend it for others. Talk soon, Oscar

Dear Oscar, Does running cause arthritis? Are there health benefits of running? What's your resting heart rate? -- A Concerned Runner

2009-05-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Whoa there, Runner! You're firing a lot of questions at me one right after another. Don't forget, my brain is only about the size of a walnut.

Okay, let's tackle your questions one at a time. First off, running does not cause arthritis. There are several different kinds of arthritis out there, and I bet you didn't know that the plural of the word "arthritis" is "arthritides." All arthritides deal with inflammation of some kind in the joints, and it is common in humans -- and many dogs. In many cases, increasing your exercise levels can help ease arthritis pain. That's the short version, but onto question number two: are there health benefits to running?

Well, yuhhhh! The health benefits are too many to list in just one measly blog post. But here's a short list. One, running makes it so a dog can have extra dog cookies! That's dog-speak for "running promotes weight loss." Also, running is good for your bones. Bones accommodate the demands you put on them. Watching TV? Not good for your bones. Running, chasing frisbees, and playing with your friends at the dog park? Good for the bones! Also, my research tells me that running lowers your "bad" cholesterol count, and lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, and breast cancer. I don't know what any of that stuff is, but why should I? I'm just a dog, you know?

Lastly, you ask what my resting heart rate is. I come from a family of runners, and we all have strong hearts that beat slowly and powerfully. A lab of my size should have a resting heart rate between 60 and 150, and mine is 60. But don't let that fool you. After just 30 minutes of chasing squirrels on the hill behind my house, you should see me pant and drool. I can get that old ticker ticking, let me tell you!

The moral of the story? Keep running, everyone! -- Oscar

Dear Oscar, I have a marathon coming up. What should I eat for my pre-race meal? Runnin' in Rochester

2009-05-18T06:39:00.001-07:00

Dear Runnin', Congrats on your upcoming race. I imagine you've been been training now for several months -- including runs up to 20-miles or more. What have you been eating prior to those training runs? Chances are, if you had successful training runs -- or even if you merely "survived" them -- whatever you ate then will probably work just fine before your biggie.

For me, my diet remains pretty consistent, whether it's a race day or a regular day. I get Nutro Lamb and Rice dogfood topped with shaved carrots twice a day. If I can, I will act just adorable enough to get my humans to give me dog cookies. If I'm still starving (which is usually, despite the fact that they give me more than the recommended helping for a dog my size, age, and activity-level), I eat grass in my yard. Nothing special before a big run -- except for maybe a bunch of water and definitely some cookies and water to replenish afterwards.

The "Run with Jan" group with which my humans run every Sunday had a speaker this past Sunday -- Kasie Enman of Huntington, who finished 11th in last year's Olympic marathon trials in Boston. She agrees that the week before your big race is not the time to shake things up. My human, Mark, seems to subscribe to that theory. His pre-race breakfast is two bowls of Wheaties with banana and honey and a glass of orange juice. Just like every morning. He keeps things the same on race day -- right down to the can of Mountain Dew in the car on the way to the event.

Experiment with different foods during your months of training. Then, hopefully, by race time you know what works.

Hope this helps!
Oscar

PS To check out the Run with Jan website, click here.

Dear Oscar, Wow your running log is amazing! Seriously though, is it safe for a dog like you to put in that many miles? -- Phyllis from Scranton

2009-05-07T11:34:00.001-07:00

Dear Phyllis, Thanks for admiring my running log. And as to the health and safety of dogs running, veterinarians generally agree that running is not only okay for dogs, it is beneficial. In some ways, dogs are the same as people; exercise is a good thing!

There are some general guidelines, of course. Puppies shouldn't run distances. The vet at Richmond Animal Hospital advised my owners against running with me until I was one. I remember being so angry when they left me behind! I took out many of my frustrations on an old foam couch (that we no longer have). It's also good to gradually work your dog up to longer distances, and once you do, you'd be surprised at how far we can go. My owners generally cap my running at 13 miles. I assure you, I can go more, but they don't let me.

Lastly, use your common sense. If your dog acts like s/he enjoys your runs, s/he probably does. If your dog appears to be lame or stiff, then, again, s/he is, and you should probably walk. If your dog is lame after a run, take some time off.

Most vets and dog trainers recommend running with a leash. I am solidly against this. However, my owners always run with me on the leash, and I admit that I'd have been hit by a car by now otherwise. Still, that doesn't mean I like it.

Running is good for dogs. It keeps us happy, healthy, and fit. But don't be fooled. We can outrun a two-legged person any day of the week.

Regards, Oscar

Dear Oscar, Who do you pick to win this year's Stanley Cup? A black team or a red team? Yours truly, Hockey Fan

2009-05-06T05:10:00.001-07:00

Dear Fan, Although I have never played the game, I have certainly watched plenty of games on the couch next to my owner. I can't say I'm the biggest fan; it's not like skiing and running where my owner brings me along to play. When I see him pull out the big bag and his sticks, I usually hang my head because I know I'll be staying home. As for my favorite team, my favorite color is yellow. Which would, then, make my favorite team the Swedish national team -- but they don't play for the particular trophy you're asking about. I know there are plenty of red teams still in the running (Washington, Detroit, Chicago to name three), but I would be more inclined to pick a black team. One of those teams -- the Bruins -- actually came to our neighborhood last fall for some practice, some golf, and a little hiking. They were really good guys... I pick them. The newest NHL analyst, Oscar

Thank you Rebekah!

2009-05-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you for taking care of Scout, Waffle, and me while my owners were away. You are one of the best dog-sitters ever! Say hi to Solomon for me! Oscar.

Dear Oscar, Why do you refer to the people you live with as 'owners'? It seems more like you own them. -- Un-owned in Montana

2009-05-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

FOLLOW-UP LETTER: Dear Oscar, Why haven't you answered me? I wrote you days ago. I know you had at least a day when your "owner" was just flipping out and packing the car. Now I know that you are truly unowned. -- Impatient and Un-owned

Dear Un-owned,
Those people to whom you refer like to feel like they influence or in some way control my life. The truth is they don't. However, there are advantages to allowing them to think they do, so if you don't mind, I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't spill the beans.

As for the response time for your letter, I am surprised. You don't seem like the type who likes being rushed either. When there are smells to smell or places to run, sometimes I feel it is best to attend to these impulses. I'll get to your letter when I get to it.

Thanks for the letter(s) though. Your friend, Oscar

Oscar, How do you do it? I heard that, in one weekend...

2009-04-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

... you crewed for a participant at North Conway's Tuckerman Inferno, you attended a Baptism in Hartford, Connecticut, and you were a spectator at the 2009 Boston Marathon. Is this true? Sincerely, Impressed

Dear Impressed, It's not a big deal, really. I will say this: The opportunities for a dog to pick up food at the Inferno are excellent. Extreme athletes at the Inferno just shove food in the direction of their mouths -- not really noticing what they're dropping on the ground. Very good pickings. And babies? They're a dog's best friend. Babies not only drop food on the ground; they throw it! And the Marathon-watching-crowd in downtown Boston? They dropped hot dogs, yogurt, ice cream, French fries... you name it, they dropped it. I especially recommend the sausages they were selling on Boyleston Avenue.

It was, all-in-all, a very rewarding weekend. Oscar

Dear Oscar, How do you feel about birds? Regards, Stanley

2009-04-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Stanley, I LOVE birds! Chasing them, that is. But on the other hand, I do resent their unfair advantage. I mean, it's one thing that just when you almost have them, they flap their wings and take off. But then they'll just sit in trees. I can't climb a tree. How are we going to play if they're going to sit in a tree all day?

And what's the deal with sandpipers? Sandpipers are those grey spotted birds with the semi-long beak and the moderately long legs. They whistle and whistle to get your attention, and they limp around like their legs and wings are all messed up. Then once you're there to sniff and lick 'em, they take off -- no injury after all.

I guess on second thought, I have mixed feelings. I love running after them, but I'm not fond of fakers or flyers. Put us on a level playing field and I'll show you who's standing after an afternoon of old-fashioned romping. And it won't be our feathered friends, I'll tell you that right now.

Thanks for the question, Oscar

Dear Oscar, You need to post more often! PS Nice running with you today. Your friend, Todd

2009-04-05T16:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Todd, Likewise to you, Mr. Speedy. I'd keep up with you, but I am leashed to my slow owner. Oh well, maybe another time.

As for the frequency of my posting, I completely agree. But I have good news: you can expect more posts from me moving forward. You see, my owner (the same slow runner to whom I just referred) is changing jobs. No, he wasn't laid off, and no, Stowe is not downsizing. Rather, every spring, my owner, a career skiing professional, shifts gears. And this summer he will be working full-time at home as a freelance writer. And you know what that means, right? That's right -- it means editors take notice: the world's best writer is available to write for you!

And do you know what else it means? That's right! Instead of turning the computer off and heading up to the mountain every day, he'll be here at the house, and the computer will be on. And whenever he takes a break, yours truly will be jumping on to add another post to my blog. It won't, of course, be easy. My owners would freak if they caught me playing on their computer! Obviously, neither of them knows about this blog. So let's just keep it our little secret.
Your sneaky friend, Oscar

Inevitable

2009-03-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it happened, and no one can say I didn't warn him. I have been telling my little brother Waffle the kitten for weeks that if he's going to play on the toilet, he better be ready to fall in. I know that Mark and Alison make every attempt to keep the lid down, but sometimes they forget, and when they do, you can always find that orange kitten precariously balanced on the rim.

And then Friday night the inevitable happened. Sure enough, something caught his eye, he made a quick move (and I will give him credit; he's usually quite agile -- sometimes I can barely catch him), he slipped, and in he went. There was a big splash, a high-pitched "meowwww!," and then an orange streak running from the toilet to the basement cat door.

Well, you can't say I didn't warn him. You won't catch me standing on that toilet. Drinking from it, maybe. But standing? No way.

Oscar, Does your house have a yard? Just Wondering in NYC

2009-03-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Wondering, Yes, my house has a small fenced yard. My owners painstakingly set up an area surrounded by basically a heavy-duty chicken wire. It does the job, although if I wanted to I could probably just knock it over. For the most part, however, I make them happy and just stay in the yard when they ask me to. But, seriously, the yard is where I go to the bathroom, so am I really going to hang out there? I mean, come on, do you hang in your bathroom? I didn't think so.

So every now and then, I lose my head, see a squirrel or something, and sneak out. There are plenty of weak spots, so I try to rotate them. I always come home though. I just like to run in the woods, get a little exercise, sniff some smells, and pee on some bushes. No big thing, but sometimes a dog has to do what a dog has to do.

Dear Oscar, What do you eat for dinner? -- Curious in Cincinnati

2009-02-24T16:24:00.000-08:00

I eat 2-and-a-half cups of Nutro Lamb and Rice two times a day.

Awhile back, in an attempt to slow down my dogfood inhalation at mealtimes, my owners tried giving me sliced carrots with dinner. It didn't work; I wolfed down my food just as quickly as ever, and usually just swalled the carrots whole. They also tried broccoli, spinach, and squash, but to no avail. Nothing slowed me down. I love my breakfast and dinner!

Lately, though, Mark has been experimenting with a new approach. He has been grating up carrots with a shredder and putting a pile of shredded carrot on the middle of my food dish. I have to admit, the first time he did this, it threw me for a loop. I was like, what is this? Sometimes I try to eat around the carrot, which, I guess, does slow me down some, and amuses the heck out of Mark. That's probably what slows me down the most; it's weird, I tell you, being watched while I eat, you know? What's the big deal? I still like the carrot, of course (I have yet to try anything I don't like), but sometimes I like to eat the dogfood first and then inhale the carrot.

Find Yours

2009-02-24T15:52:00.001-08:00

My owner Mark works at Stowe Mountain Resort where one of their marketing slogans is "Find Yours." I'm no marketing genius, but I believe the idea of the jingle is that whatever turns you on, you can find it at Stowe as long as you're willing to look. If you like quiet wooded glades, go find it at in the out-of-bounds at Stowe. If you like ginormous jumps, check out the big park on Tyro. If you like 5-star hotels and restaurants, check out the new Spruce Peak hotel. Get the point?

I found mine last night. Like I said, I'm not into marketing or sales pitches, so I'm not going to try to convince you that my behavior lately has been stellar or that it was anyone's fault other than my own that Mark hasn't really let me off the leash much lately. I know, I know, I should come when he calls. I just get caught up in the moment, you know? However, last night when he came home at dusk after we received 16 inches of snow in 24 hours, he had decided to give me a chance. We went to the fields at the end of our road (the ones far from the river, so I wouldn't be tempted to run across -- I know... the ice isn't safe!). He put a light and a dog-bell around my neck, strapped on his snowshoes, unhooked my leash, and off we went, bounding across pristine powdery fields under a cloudy yet sparklingly snowy nighttime sky.

And as I charged around at full speed, leaving dog tracks about 6 feet apart in the snow, I found mine. Yep. I love winter, I love snow, and I love romping around in fresh snow on a cold, windless night, with snowflakes floating down and reflecting off my light like stars. I am sure the expression on my face -- if you weren't blinded by the headlamp around my neck -- said it all. Pure bliss. I am a dog who knows what I like, and I found it in the snowfields of Richmond last night.

Oscar, Do you have any advice for our new President? -- A Concerned Reader

2009-02-13T06:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Concerned,

Yes, I certainly do. In this time of war and economic recession, what this nation needs is, of course...

... a White House dog! I mean, seriously, what is the hold-up? I had high hopes that the President and his family were going to move decisively and immediately on this important issue; after all, the President addressed it in his very first press conference after winning the election. His exact words: "Yes, we are getting a dog."

Now, I don't want to belittle the enormity of this decision or the importance of making the right choice and selection. And in the Obama family's case, they do have an allergy to be concerned with -- his 10-year-old is allergic. But come on! The time to act is now! There are hypo-allergenic dogs out there like the Labradoodle and the Portugese Water Dog. As I am sure the President will be reading this entry, I offer my advice here: go with the Doodle. After all, it has lab in it, and we all know that labs are the best.

I must say that I am pleased that the Obamas plan to get a dog from a shelter. Yours truly came from a shelter, and what more evidence do we need that shelter dogs make good pets?

I am confident that once he gets a dog in the White House, things will flow better for the new President. He will have someone that greets him enthusiastically when he comes home from a long day at the Oval Office. And he will have always have a willing companion when he needs to go for a walk or jog. The President should remember to feed his new dog regularly and that treats between meals are much appreciated. Finally, if there is ever a nosy reporter badgering him, the President can sic the Doodle on him -- always a handy option to have at one's disposal if one is President.

Long story short: Mr. President, seriously. The economy can wait. Take care of the important stuff first. Go get yourself a dog.

New Skill

2009-01-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

Check out the new skill I have added to my set: Here I am pictured on Interstate 89 at 75mph.

Just kidding! Dogs aren't allowed to drive! I'm actually stationary in the Bagel Shop parking lot. And besides, I would never exceed the speed limit; I'm a rule follower.

Also, best of luck to Rufus at the vet! Hang in there, buddy!

Resolution

2009-01-08T07:36:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009 everyone! For the New Year, I resolve not to leave my toys around the house, to refrain from jumping when people come over, and to stop chewing on Waffle the kitten.

Okay, I admit it. I have no intention of keeping any of those resolutions. There is one thing, however, I intend to do a better job with: keeping up my running log. Loyal readers of this blog probably think I haven't run in over a month. According to my log, it's true. In reality though, not true. I have been running regularly; I just haven't posted them. So starting with First Run 2009 (see photo of this year's January 1st event), I will diligently post all of my runs. Happy New Year everyone!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-12-05T06:21:00.001-08:00

On November 26, my second birthday, Mark and Ali brought me the most awesome birthday present: a new chew-toy, I mean, a new kitten!

When Waffle the cat first arrived, I was afraid of him. I mean, as you can see from the photos above, he is very scary and ferocious. After about 24 hours, however, he established himself as very friendly, and now Scout and I have welcomed him with open paws.

Waffle and I love playing and wrestling. When we are alone in the house, we nap so we have plenty of energy for romping when people are around. Scout continues to primarliy frequent the basement and the bathroom, but he told me that he really likes the new kitten too.

So happy birthday to me and welcome to Waffle our new kitty!

Orange

2008-11-18T19:55:00.001-08:00

It's hunting season in Richmond, and you know what that means. Yep, it's the orange vest these days for me whenever I go out. Which isn't that bad, I suppose. On the one hand, whenever it's time to go out (ie when I start getting over-excited in the house), I have to wait while my owners put the vest on me. On the other side, I can run through the thickest burrs in the woods and only get them on my head and tail instead of all over my body. See the vest not only makes me visible; it also offers effective burr-pro.

Still, I'll look forward to running through the fields of Richmond free of the orange vest constriction. It's just better that way.

Excited!

2008-11-03T16:04:00.001-08:00

I am excited! Saturday, I hiked up on the side of Mount Mansfield where there are -- no exaggeration -- like 6 or 7 inches of snow left over from last week's storm! Mark and Ali talked the whole time about backcountry skiing in that very spot. And as you know, I love skiing! I love playing in the snow, I love leading the way up, I love following all the tracks... The only thing I don't love is how on the way down, I'm not the fastest. (That, actually, bothers me a little, but enough of that now.) Ski season is almost here, so, let me tell you, I am charged up.

So charged up in fact, that I couldn't contain myself this morning. It was a little warmer -- 38 Fahrenheit, in fact -- and I was so excited that jumped full speed right into the Winooski River. And swam all the way across. On November Third. In my hunting vest (see photo, which came out dark, but it wasn't really that dark). Once I got to the other side, I didn't really know what to do. I mean, there I was on the other side. And that water was cold!

So I ran a few laps around the beach on the other side, and then jumped in and swam as fast as I could back to this side. Whew -- exhilerating! It's like in February when all those people jump into Lake Champlain through the ice as a fund-raiser. Which is all well and good, but I'm thinking that maybe my swimming days will be over until next summer.

Welcome Abigail!

2008-10-16T01:44:00.000-07:00

Everybody give a warm welcome to my new human cousin:

Abigail Grace McKain was born on October 15, 2008!

Congrats Ryan and Michelle, and welcome Abigail!

PS Casey and Dakota, make sure you give her a big lick for me!

Thank You and Congrats Runners!

2008-10-13T03:36:00.000-07:00

Two things:

1) Thank you Rebekah! You are a great buddy! I appreciate everything -- especially the dogfood!

2) Congratulations Hartford Marathon Runners! I hope you all had a great race!

O

Oscar, Why do dogs like to stick their heads out the window when they ride in the car? -- Casey and Dakota

2008-10-03T18:36:00.001-07:00

Dear Casey & Dakota,

It's simple, my friends. If they're not going to move over and let us hold the steering wheel, then we'll do the next best thing, which is putting our faces out and letting our ears flap in the wind. I'm serious. I don't want to just ride in the car; I want to drive.

Love it!

2008-09-25T14:30:00.001-07:00

I apologize if I'm belaboring this point, but I love my life here in Richmond, Vermont! Yet again today, Mark brought me for a 6-miler. At mile 4.2, he let me off the leash to run in the fields. I love running in the fields. At 5.1, we came to the brook at the end of the road. I love swimming in the brook. Again, sorry for beating a dead horse, but life is good if you're a yellow puppy on a dirt road in Richmond.

Whoops... gotta go. I hear someone filling my food dish.