Ebbey Blog

Dinner Time Flavors

2008-05-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

I like meal time, but sometimes it tastes funny.

Allex Michael: Ebbey is fed home made food, both for her health and because there are few foods she can eat due to allergies. Because of this, she needs a lot of supplements. Some of which are not too tasty. (Believe it or not, Ebbey's also allergic to many vitamins and minerals like calcium citrate and glucosamine derived from shellfish).

Extra broth can help hide the various powdered vitamins and minerals and her evening snack with fruit also covers the powdery tastes. But dinner, with ground up vegetables, is a tough meal as Ebbey neither likes veggies or vitamins.

Kitty Stand Off

2007-06-15T23:09:00.000-07:00

There is no kitty, who can stand off longer than me! Something about a kitty who won't run. Some where back in my memories, I know enough to stay clear.

Allex Michael: Found starving in a garbage dump, Ebbey used to know there is no fiercer creature than a garbage dump cat. It is hidden some where in her memories. However, after 2 years of captivity and domestic living, Ebbey can't seem to remember exactly why.

A cat was recently sitting outside a neighbor's home, where two dogs also live. As Ebbey approached, the cat stood her ground and quickly began arching her back. Ebbey stalked the cat within 4 feet, but would go no closer. Unfortunately she would not leave the stand off either. So I had to drag her away. Of course the cocky kitty then stalked us for a while...which led to more Ebbey dragging.

Click here for more Ebbey photos and Trivia.

Tick Taxi Service

2007-06-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

Been very busy chasing bunnies, kitties and mousies. Sorry it's been a while since I posted. Will try to catch up. With all the rain and now heat, I've been bringing home these round little bugs after almost every walk. Luckily they never bite, just drop off inside the house.

Allex Michael: Ticks don't seem to like dogs who eat garlic. Fed a whole clove each daily, neither Ebbey (85 pounds) or her Rottweiler roomate (90 pounds) have been bitten. Though both seem to be providing a tick taxi service into the house. The unfed parasites then crawl up the furniture and curtains awaiting an ususpecting meal. Luckily all humans in the house also eat garlic, so no bites or Lyme disease yet.

Rat Sized Raccoon

2007-06-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

This was the largest mouse I've ever seen. After over 30 seconds of stalking, the creature refused to run. Only then did I discover, it was another fake animal.

Allex Michael: Though quite realistic, a newly placed raccoon lawn ornament was only about the size of a small rat. But in the dark, placed under a tree, it was easy to mistake for some kind of critter.

Furry Humans or Two Legged Predators

2007-01-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

I froze in my tracks, as the creature approached.

Allex Michael: I don't wear fur and Ebbey has obviously never seen a fur wearing human based on her reaction.

We were invited to a rather posh New Year's brunch at an acreage and several of the guests were wearing fur. One rather short lady was wearing a floor length fur coat with the hood up and Ebbey suddenly froze, staring at her. Several moments passed as her back ridge and hackles raised and then calmed and then raised again. She was likely assessing whether this a two legged predator about to attack or just a rather furry human. As soon as the lady assured she was human Ebbey calmed right down and went over for a pet. However, she still kept a close eye on this furry woman.

Fake Out Deer

2006-12-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

I was certain it was just a statue, but after my rottweiler companions reaction, I had to go over for a closer look.

Allex Michael: People put some unusual things on their lawns as Christmas ornaments, but this was a first. A small plastic deer statue, for hunting, was one person's idea of a Christmas decoration. Ebbey took one look and one sniff and kept walking, but her rottweiler walking partner was certain this was a real deer just a few feet away. After a large rottweiler pounce, followed closely by Ebbey, both dogs were now certain that this was another fake out animal.

Previous fake out lawn ornaments include Canada geese, gnomes, bunny statues and a tiny donkey.

Ebbey The Canine Actor's New Web Site is Uploaded

2006-09-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Getting thousands of hits per day, the new version of Ebbey.com is now on the web. It's design is still simple, but it looks sooo much better than the last version. Plus the page sizes are smaller and load faster.

Please take a look and tell us what
you think.

Afterthought about Vets

2006-09-18T19:21:00.000-07:00

Did you know that many pet owners fear anaesthesia, which leads to some animals not receiving proper surgical treatment.

Ebbey.com and Ebbey's BlogSpot

2006-09-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: People Think I'm Insane...for a number of reasons. But in this instance I'm referring to my efforts with Ebbey the Canine Actor's web site and Ebbey's Blog spot. Ebbey.com now gets thousands of hits per day, and many people email how much they enjoy her site. About a third of those web visitors then check out the web site for her film Search Dog's Raven. Ebbey's Blogspot also directs a number of visitors to both websites. So how crazy is that?

Coyote Howls

2006-09-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

A coyote pup howling.

I always listen, but now my mistress stops to listen to the coyotes howl.

Allex Michael: This is not just a ritual. After our last encounter with a pack of 5 coyotes, I like to establish their general proximity.

Aggressive Dogs

2006-09-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: After I had the consult at the Cochrane Animal Clinic, Ebbey and I went for a walk by the river and took some photos. We met several friendly dogs, then a male golden retriever tried to bite her face and made her whine. (One reason why I now severely limit our visits to off leash areas.) It's important to keep her socialized with strange dogs, but about 10 to 20 percent of the dogs are potentially aggressive.

There's a book called:
Pets at risk: from allergies to cancer, remedies for an unsuspected epidemic by Plechner, Alfred J., which suggests that many dogs now have endocrine problems and aggression could be one of the symptoms. Though alarming, it is an interesting book for pet owners which dispels some rumors about vaccinations, pet food and pet medications.

Second Full Walk after Surgery

2006-09-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Though Ebbey's recuperation is rapid, we got caught in the rain yesterday on our walk and it really seemed to zap her energy. So with the recent temperature drop, she'll be wearing a light fleece coat until her recuperation is complete.

Ebbey Matures

2006-09-10T18:56:00.000-07:00

As Ebbey matures, there is a significant difference in her behavior. Firstly, she has started standing up for herself, at least occasionally, with strange snarly dogs. This self confidence is much more pronounced when walking with another dog she knows. When first adopted, Ebbey would cower and lie down when encountering a dominant dog. Some of whom would try to beat her up. Her hunting instincts, and competitive nature are also more intense when she's with another familiar dog.

Calgary Animal Shelters

2006-09-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

I've met many new dogs while living here.

Allex Michael: While working in Calgary, on the film Search Dog's Raven, Ebbey and I often meet other dog owners while out walking. Several have adopted dogs from the Cochrane Animal Shelter. Calgary's new humane center is greatly improved, with small rooms for the dogs, however it is now located on the very southern edge of this sprawling city. So the Cochrane shelter is now a shorter drive for some Calgary residents.

Intruder Alert

2006-09-01T19:13:00.000-07:00

No one sneaks up on me!

Allex Michael: After going to the bathroom, Ebbey suddenly whipped around and let out a huge warning bark. Someone must have been standing in the bushes. The Rottweiler was standing on guard as well so I drug them away as quickly as possible. Perhaps a homeless person has taken up residence in the park.

A Very Frightening Discovery

2006-08-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: Was brushing Ebbey the Canine Actor's teeth and discovered one of her problem teeth had cracked right in half. She was found starving in a garbage dump, and arrived with some injuries including a couple bad teeth.

Anyone who may need surgery for their pet may find this photo article of some value. there is information on anesthesia etc.

Deer Hunter

2006-08-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Love to chase those deer.

Allex Michael: Saw a deer last night, munching grass in the park. Walking with the Rottweiler, Ebbey immediately did a spinning bark alert. I gave a sharp harsh no. Despite my reprimand, the Rotti gave a good bark and got a smack with my empty glove. Generally, when there is any kind of prey, neither dog pays any attention to me. Tonight, I got lucky and they both listened. Then we stood there quietly for a few seconds and watched the doe forage.

When Ebbey was first adopted, she chased several deer with a dog we were walking with. I started to run after the dogs, but could not keep them in my sight. After the other dog came back, I was pretty certain I'd lost Ebbey for good. Then several long minutes later, Ebbey returned unharmed. Deers can kill a dog, so I try to discourage this behavior.

Sneaky Bunnies

2006-08-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

Hiding in trees roots, by the door, but I found him.

Allex Michael: A snowshoe hare decided to hide right by the front entrance as the dogs and I returned home from a walk. Like a good bunny, he remained motionless until Ebbey caught his scent. As Ebbey lunged towards the hare, the Rotti joined in on the chase. Luckily a stand of trees slowed down the dogs and allowed the hare to escape.

Scrawny Injured Coyotes

2006-08-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

Must warn off all coyotes, no matter what their condition.

Ebbey saw several coyotes along the highway. The last one was limping badly and didn't look long for the world.

A Bunny a Day, Means More to Chase

2006-08-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

Saw a coyote, bark attacked and several hidden bunnies started running.

Spotting a coyote, Ebbey's coyote bark warning's ended up saving a few dumb urban hares. Likely this springs innexperienced babies.

Ebbey and Hiking:

2006-08-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

I tolerate the long drive, as long as there's a nice walk with lots of critters to track.

Allex Michael: We often eat canned salmon on hiking trips, because it doesn't spoil. Ebbey is a bit allergic to it, but bags of cooked beef or bison are impossible to take without refrigeration. Ebbey's usually very tired after a hike, so though her ear wax production increases, she's usually not itchy and scratchy. I wouldn't continue with the salmon for more than a few meals to avoid aggravating her allergies.

Thunder Fear

2006-07-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

If my roommate's scared, maybe I should be too.

When first adopted, Ebbey was scared of crossing bridges

Ebbey never had a fear of thunder until her Rottweiler roommate began reacting to the rumbling. Now both large muscular dogs scurry to hide in small dark places when the thunder starts.

Dog Bath

2006-07-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

It was torture time again, only this time with a hose.

A wet Ebbey poses after swimming in the river. >

Allex Michael: Concerned that a bath would flare up allergy related skin problems, I have not given Ebbey an official shampoo bath until today. She's had regular wet towellings, but never an actual warm water hose off bath. For a dog once terrified of water, a spray bath was less than delightful. However, she did enjoy the shampoo massage and felt very happy once it was over. Plus it cooled her down on a hot day.

Ground Bird Frenzy

2006-07-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

I'm so quiet, those naughty birdies didn't even see me.

Allex Michael: While catching up on some reading, Ebbey and I were out in the backyard. Oblivious to the rawhide chewing dog, the partridge family flew in to feed on fallen seeds from the bird feeder. Their young chicks ducked under the fence and scurried over to join them. A great skirmish erupted. As Ebbey lunged after the birds, several chicks took refuge under the deck. We then had to go inside, concerned the parents would abandon the chicks as MIA. Luckily all were eventually reunited within the hour.
Hungarian partridge chicks were the size of sparrows when I first saw them. Now, a month later, they are nearly the size of their parents.

Porcupine Encounter

2006-07-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

After the last encounter, and all the yelling, I'm a bit more wary this time. Though with the determination of my walking partner, I still went along to get a closer look.

Allex Michael: Ebbey's first porcupine encounter was with her boyfriend Grizzly.

Some of that experience stuck, because Ebbey did not lead the charge to see the porcupine. However, the Rottweiler has apparently not yet had a porcupine experience and was very determined to attack it.

The three of us have seen porcupines on several occasions, but always from a reasonably safe distance. A few times we watched, from a pedestrian overpass, as one walked along the highway below. We also were able to circle one as it tried to escape us along a walking path.

But this time, no such luck. I saw the porcupine before either of the dogs, and began walking up the hill to make a large circle around the creature. Then both of the dogs saw the miniature porcupine. Ebbey responded to my warning, but the Rotti took off and pulled me off my feet. I should mention that she does this wearing a halti. Ebbey then also joined the pursuit, with both dogs dragging me through deep grass. There wasn't much I could do to stop them. The three to five second pull seemed like a lifetime as I imagined being pulled onto the porcupine. Once out of the grass, I was now being dragged along a strip of pavement and fast approaching the young porcupine's tail. Suddenly, Ebbey veered off to the side and away from the porcupine. Luckily this, and the burning of my elbow flesh on asphalt was enough to stop the Rottweiler from dragging me face first into those porcupine quills. I came to a stop about two feet (60cm) from the quills. The Rotti just stood there staring at the porcupine. Why isn't this thing running? Scrambling to avoid a backwards quill attack, I got up pulled the dogs well away from the porcupine and then started cussing them both out. They sit when in trouble, but I haven't been this mad since they drug me through fresh dog poop. Or perhaps it was the cow poop incident. As we continued walking, my elbow burned all the way. A long sleeved shirt had provided some initial protection, but then the polyester fibers had worsened the burn. Returning home, I turned out to be one large grass stain.

Mistress Scared of Me

2006-07-01T18:33:00.000-07:00

She always covers her eyes when she sleeps.

Allex Michael: Especially during hot summers, I often end up working at night and sleep during the day. In order to sleep, I cover my eyes with a dark folded cloth. Ebbey is always suspicious of this ritual. Likely has something to do with her eye fetish.

Mosquito Swarms

2006-06-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: This year has been relatively free of mosquitoes until today. Ebbey was literally covered within seconds. We had to run just to keep them off.

Heat Wave

2006-06-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

It's just way too hot for me.

Allex Michael: Ebbey just isn't great in the heat. So I try to take her for walks early or later to avoid the midday sun. If we're near water it helps, as she can often be convinced to wade in and cool down.

Mistress Fearful

2006-06-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: Dogs pick up on your fear, but they don't always understand it. Out on a late night walk, two guys drove by in two old beater cars. Despite Ebbey and the Rottweiler's presence, they drove by us two more times...sizing us up. After the third time, we hid behind a hedge and watched as they drove past for a fourth time. Both men appeared to be searching for us. So I tried to run the dogs down a side street, only the rottweiler doesn't like to run on leash. She'd rather stay and take care of the problem vs running to avoid trouble. Needless to say we lived another day. It must have been a slow day for serial killers, if we were the only available victims.

What a Good Girl NOW

2006-06-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: While walking today, I remembered back when I first adopted Ebbey and how bad she was. Even after owning her for a year, she would still run off when seeing another dog. Then I would have to run the quarter mile or more to get her back. Compared to back then, Ebbey is such a good girl now.

Naughty Owner, Naughty Dog

2006-06-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: It only takes a few people to ruin it for the rest of us. Please clean up after your dog. The last few nights I've seen this guy standing at a school yard entrance while his dog goes and craps in the school yard. The third night he saw us, and then kept on walking.

Houdini Bunny

2006-05-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

Hot on the trail and then the bunny vanished.

Looking Good

2006-05-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

I have much more energy, which ensures I will catch the bunny next time.

Allex Michael: After four months of dieting, Ebbey has finally returned to an attractive weight. Around 80 to 85 pounds (36 to 38.5kg) seems to be just right. Despite being harder to handle, she now has much more energy. Her waist is well defined and though medically impossible at 3 plus years of age, she seems to have grown slightly in height again.

Busy Animal Night

2006-05-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

Potential prey everywhere!

On one walk, we saw a porcupine, coyotes, an owl, male deer, dozens of snowshoe hare, mice, voles and a kitty.

Bunny Lawn Ornaments

2006-04-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

Many lawns have animals, so I watch carefully to see if they move. If they don't move, I know they are fake.

Ebbey on occasion, but mostly the Rottweiler sees a lawn ornament and mistakes it for potential prey.

Allex Michael: Some urban areas seem overrun with snowshoe hares the last few years. So Ebbey smells hare scent where ever we walk. One night six hares were parked on someone's lawn and remained totally motionless as myself and the two dogs walked by. After watching the hares for some time, both dogs became certain they were lawn ornaments because no bunny can stay still that long.

The Ebbey Rottweiler Relationship

2006-04-22T18:21:00.000-07:00

Allex Michael: Ebbey and I now cohabit with a once rescued Rottweiler. Despite claims to the contrary, the rotti isn't great around other dogs. Ebbey can't go in the backyard with the rottweiler and play, as the Rotti's idea of fun is bite chases. Even under supervision. Ebbey is slightly fearful of her new roommate, and will quickly give up her food if the Rottweiler moves in on her dish. It was dicey for the six months, as the Rottweiler wanted to be top dog of the household and the only thing standing in her way is Ebbey. However, Ebbey loves her and having a Rottweiler roomate has it's benefits. Walk time is now mostly carefree. With the Rottweiler taking care of security, Ebbey can now focus on tracking scent and searching for critters. Ebbey also now has terrific backup when packs of coyotes venture too close.

Nail Saga Continues

2006-04-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

My mistress has found a new way to torture me.

Allex Michael: Cutting Ebbey's nails remains a huge chore. The dog is so strong that even with an assistant sitting on her, she will not allow me to cut her fast growing black ridgeback nails. The last two times she tried to bite the assistant which is no laughing matter with a dog her size. When she started avoiding areas of the house where nail cutting may occur, I switched over to using a Dremel tool with a round sander. The first few times were very difficult, as she was fearful of the sound, but she reacts better when not held down. Sanding her back claws are easier and better tolerated than sanding the front ones. Plus, I'm better off alone as she would never dare bite me. Unlike the sharp cutters, there has never been any blood flow and one to two sandings per week seems to be breaking even on the nail growing front. Other than taking significantly longer, the only other drawback is airborne nail dust. It's not good for the respiratory tract, so I'm not sure what to do when winter comes.

Bunny Death Wish

2006-04-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

Some bunnies wait until I get about twenty feet before they run away.

If Ebbey was off leash, twenty feet may be to close for a bunny's safety. Urban hares seem to know that a leashed dog isn't free to chase them.

Coyotes Could Be Anywhere

2006-04-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

Ebbey saw a show about coyotes just before her evening walk and was spooked the entire trip. She kept looking over her shoulder, sniffing and listening to every noise.

Polite Dog

2006-04-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

Etiquette or Hierarchy

I almost always wait for my mistress to sit down with her dinner before I start eating.

Allex Michael: I often eat my dinner while lying on the floor in front of the television. The ritual is to make Ebbey sit, then put down her meal on a tray. I then go lay down with my dinner plate. She often waits until I'm settled before she gets up and starts to eat.

Late Night Wings

2006-04-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

Late one night large birds flew right over my head while I was sitting on top of a hill.

< Ebbey watches Canada Geese swim across the pond.

Allex Michael: Things sound differently in the night air. During spring time migration, sometimes flocks of geese fly low to avoid power lines when cruising to find rest stops in urban areas. Ebbey and I were sitting on top of a hill, looking at the scenery, when the flock whooshed over us. They were flying so low, Ebbey could have jumped up and nearly grabbed one.

It Must be Spring

2006-04-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

The bunnies barely even notice me, as I bound towards them.

Springtime is the height of bunny romance, and their focus on reproduction is so strong that a potential predator has a much easier time of approaching.

Bad Memories

2006-03-13T18:09:00.000-08:00

Don't like people looking at my teeth.

Allex Michael: While brushing Ebbey's teeth outside one morning, I discovered that not just one small front tooth, but actually three front teeth are chipped and broken. She doesn't like people looking at her teeth, so I've never gotten such a good look as today. Plus there is just the one tooth with a noticeable brown mark. When I made a fuss, she became very upset. It's normal for pack animals to hide any weakness, out of fear they will lose status in the pack. But it's as if she remembered the event that led to the damage. Perhaps a pipe to the mouth or even being hit by a vehicle. Her self consciousness lasted two days.

Screaming Hare

2006-03-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

Hearing a weird high pitched shriek, like a screaming piglet crossed with a whale, Ebbey quickly looked out the window to find the source of the sound. A coyote likely killed a snowshoe hare.

Spooky Night

2006-03-10T18:07:00.000-08:00

Some nights, Ebbey is totally spooked. Looking over her shoulder and especially jumpy, it's as if she's being stalked by some unearthly creature.

Winter Weighty

2006-03-01T17:54:00.000-08:00

Allex Michael: Only able to eat about 19 foods, due to allergies, I'm constantly trying to optimize Ebbey's diet. She's also become a more picky eater, and will vomit if her stomach is empty. Vomiting isn't all that bad for a dog, but you have to remember that Ebbey vomited up to 7 times a day when I first adopted her so I prefer to keep enough food in her stomach to avoid this.
I changed to a more fatty type of ground beef last fall, not only due to the price, but because dogs need some fat in their diet. Especially during the colder months of winter. My scales disappeared in the chaos that is my life, and I also became lazy about weighing Ebbey's food for every meal. As a result, the dog's weight soared to over 95 pounds (44kg). Fifteen pounds (7kg) more than she weighed the previous fall. Despite being on a diet for the last 4 weeks, she has not lost a single pound. This is the opposite problem I had after first adopting her, as I couldn't get her to gain weight. Will have to try harder.

Big Kitty

2006-02-28T17:53:00.000-08:00

I recognize that big kitty.

Ebbey often watches tv shows about animals, but was particularly enamored by an episode of Killer Instinct about the Lynx. It's as if she's seen one before. Perhaps when she was living out in the wild or possibly during one of our wilderness hikes. Ebbey watched with great interest as the Lynx chased, captured and killed voles and a snowshoe hare.

Why Does My Mistress Torture Me?

2006-02-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

She is so nice, except when it comes to nail cutting.

Allex Michael: Cutting Ebbey's nails is becoming a huge chore. With solid black nails, it's impossible to see the veins. Ridgeback nails grow very fast and require weekly trims which are becoming a nightmare. I now have to find an assistant to hold her, who she now uncharacteristically threatens to bite.

Coyote Pack

2006-02-08T17:50:00.000-08:00

Coyotes do not belong in my territory!

Allex Michael: I took Ebbey and the Rottweiler for a late night walk. Crossing a pedestrian walkway, over the highway, two coyotes had the same idea from the other direction. Ebbey hates coyotes and began her rigid leg bark attack routine. So I guided both dogs back across the bridge with the coyotes lingering to watch. We stopped to watch them from a safe distance, but neither dog would look in their direction. Come to think of it, the coyote alarm (Ebbey) had also stopped barking. As I soon discovered, they were watching three additional coyotes who were crossing the highway to come around at us from another direction. The three of us can fend off two to three coyotes, but I prefer to retreat when they start ganging up.

Slow Moving Bunnies

2006-02-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

Two strange looking bunnies hesitated a very long time as we bounded towards them.

Ebbey will stalk just about anything, including her doggie pals.

Two weird looking snowshoe hares turned out to be two white cats. Based on their slow reaction time the kitties will likely become a coyote meal in the near future.

Love the Taste, Hate the Scratch

2006-02-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

The other dogs get to eat all kinds of food, but my food is really boring.

Allex Michael: Only able to eat about 19 foods in the whole world, I'm always trying to find new food that Ebbey can eat without an allergic reaction. Cottage cheese and cream are now off the list, though she can tolerate a couple teaspoons of yogurt weekly.

Every Walk is an Adventure

2006-02-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

Birdies swooped just above our heads.

Allex Michael: Other than bunnies (snowshoe hares) small ground dwelling birds are another of Ebbey's favorite critters to find. A small flock of Hungarian partridge (an introduced species of small ground birds that has spread across North America) flew right over our head one night. Feathers from one wing brushed down against my hat.

Training Milestone

2006-01-15T17:44:00.000-08:00

Allex Michael: Terrified that this day would come, and my dog's face would be plastered around the city as yet another lost dog or splattered on the front grill of a car, Ebbey encountered a snowshoe hare off leash. Ebbey is an incredibly fast runner, so is able to keep up with most snowshoe hares. She gave chase for several hundred yards, jumped over a residential backyard fence but then slammed to a stop when the hare ducked under the front yard fence and sped across the road. Perhaps the fence was the deterrent, but I was just so grateful she actually returned. (Sorry to whoever's backyard Ebbey invaded)

Found starving in a garbage dump, this is a milestone in Ebbey's training.

Ebbey Karma

2006-01-13T17:41:00.000-08:00

Allex Michael: Ebbey's wildness is in stark contrast to my first dog. A black shepherd bouvier cross who was exceptionally well trained with just 15 minute training sessions per day. People would always remark how well behaved my first dog was, heeling off leash in the most stressful of situations. Because of this, I would look at people with badly behaved dogs and wonder why they just didn't take a little time to train their dog.

Adopting Ebbey added some karma to my life. Found starving in a garbage dump, I cut her some slack after our training sessions made little progress. Determined to have a well trained companion, like my first dog, I increased training to twice daily and added food incentives. Ebbey's behavior greatly improved but the results are still disappointing when prey presents itself. After about eighteen months, I've also given up any hope that she will ever heel off leash. In fact, I'm just happy when she doesn't pull me to the ground while chasing a bunny.

Now, people with well trained dogs, watch Ebbey dragging me down the street and wonder why I just don't take a little time to train the unruly beast.

Life is the Chase

2006-01-13T17:36:00.000-08:00

I live for the hunt!

Allex Michael: As a Rhodesian ridgeback (hunting dog) likely crossed with a lab (another hunting dog), most of Ebbey's brain is geared towards scent and pursuing prey. Though now easier to handle, than when first adopted, Ebbey still loses her mind whenever she scents or sees any potential prey. This includes hares, cats, mice, other dogs, deer and coyotes. Even a leaf or piece of paper blowing in the wind can lead to a powerful and unexpected lunge on the leash.

Many Evils at the Garage

2006-01-06T17:34:00.000-08:00

Trucks, horns and now blasters.

Allex Michael: Once living as part of a wild dog pack in a garbage dump and shunned by humanity, Ebbey still has many fears. People used to shoot at her from trucks and honk at road crossings with horns. However, I only recently discovered she is also scared of the air pump to fill vehicle tires. I tried praise while measuring and filling each tire, but she remains wary.

Black Cat Trash

2006-01-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

Anything and everything could turn out to be a critter!

Allex Michael: Hidden in tall grass, a small piece of dark trash turned out to be a small black cat. Seeing a Rottweiler and Ebbey, he thought better to freeze than to run. Unfortunately, he froze until they were almost on top of him. Luckily the element of surprise foiled the canines.

Love for Lamb

2006-01-02T15:47:00.000-08:00

I love trying new foods, though some taste similar to others. Some foods seem more like bunny food than Ebbey food.

Allex Michael: Haven't tried lamb, but Ebbey is definitely allergic to lamb liver.

No Walks

2005-12-04T01:18:00.000-08:00

My feet get too cold, so I’m not getting my walks.

This is the sixth day in a deep freeze and it’s too cold to take the dogs for a walk. I’ve tried driving Ebbey to the park, but she ends up with frozen feet after just a few minutes. I’m amazed at how well Ebbey is handling it. This time last year, she would have been climbing the walls without enough exercise. This year she’s not happy, but more accepting.

This was no Dog

2005-12-04T00:36:00.000-08:00

We visited the place with all the pet toys today. I saw what looked like a dog, but his smell gave him away.

Ebbey has greeted dogs as small as two miniature dachshunds, which are about the size of a hot dog. So when we went to the pet store, and she looked through the glass, her tail began to wag upon seeing a short brown furry creature with an unusually large head. Within a few seconds, Ebbey’s tail stopped wagging. This dog just didn’t smell right. In fact it smelled more like a bunny than it did a dog. Her legs became rigid, as Ebbey stood there staring through the glass. The brown furry creature looked back, then started eating. Though a guinea pig may look like a miniature canine, this was no dog.

Mice Varieties

2005-11-28T01:14:00.000-08:00

Mice seem to come in many shapes and sizes. Some fill up my mouth and others are smaller than my dog license. The naughty birdie took one away.

When I’m working, Ebbey lays on a foam bed looking out the window. This year, we’re living in a house with a big back deck. My landlord has several bird feeders which also feeds a number of resident mice. I’m amazed at the size of some of the younger rodents. Though proportioned like adults, one was about the size of a large lima bean with a tiny tail to match.

After a week long cold spell, the mice population has significantly declined. They may have frozen to death or were likely eaten by magpies or a cat.

Missing Mistress

2005-11-28T00:38:00.000-08:00

Despite a baby sitter and a canine roommate, I waited at the window all day for my mistress to come home.

After being away all day, I walked Ebbey when I returned. Though with a baby sitter, she has started refusing to eat when I am gone or asleep. Plus she’s always really stressed out by the time I return and more naughty than normal. We met up with a really nice golden retriever. It was bitterly cold, but the two dogs played a bit. Though only a year apart in age, Ebbey was so eager to burn off the stress, she was down right obnoxious in her efforts to play with her new friend. Barking and running back and forth. The well behaved golden didn’t know what to make of her. It turns out the golden has very bad allergies and her health has suffered greatly because of it. This is her owner’s first dog and I felt so bad, not only because of the stress involved with a sickly pet, but the cost. Apparently the vets did not diagnose allergies for the first couple years and only medicated the symptoms. The poor dog has had several surgeries and lives on a daily regimen of steroids and a vegetarian diet. Guess I’m lucky that I quickly refused a similar type of treatment for Ebbey and went the homeopathic route. After the first round of vet’s pills and cortisone shot made no impact on Ebbey’s symptoms, I started to research her conditions. I have allergies myself and surprisingly Ebbey’s her symptoms were very close to my own. I started her on a homemade elimination diet and bathed her skin with a homemade anti itch formula. After 4 months of sleepless nights, dousing her skin and keeping her covered in old t-shirts, I finally got a couple foods she could eat - beef and brown rice. As she gradually improved, and her immune system strengthened, I would add one food a week and see if she reacted to it. Though there are only about 15 or 20 different foods she can eat with out a reaction, Ebbey is now a very healthy dog. Unfortunately, most people work away from home and are unable to deal with an allergic pet. It’s just good timing that I am making my first film and the dog is almost always with me so I can take care of her.

I Love all Dogs

2005-11-25T00:36:00.000-08:00

Big or small, I love every dog.

Walking in an urban park, Ebbey was suddenly surrounded by a pack of roaming miniature fluffies. I’m unsure what kind of breed they were, but each fluffy white dog barely weighed 9 pounds (4kg). I don’t think the owner saw us, as he was suddenly alarmed to see his five fluffies dominating Ebbey’s 80 plus pounds (37kg).

Boring Meals

2005-11-21T00:37:00.000-08:00

Meals just aren’t what they used to be and if I hold out, my mistress generally comes up with something better. Sometimes I can even get her to hand feed me.

Ebbey was found starving in a garbage dump and it took a number of months before her immune system improved. She would vomit up to seven times a day, unless fed every few hours. Because of this, and even though Ebbey is now very healthy, I am always scared when she doesn’t eat. I’ve even gone as far as hand feeding her, just enough to prevent her from vomiting up bile.
She gets fed three times a day and because of allergies, has a very small list of foods she can eat. Her meals consist of either .4 pounds (180 grams) of cooked ground beef, elk or bison plus brown rice. At dinner time she also gets a tablespoon of ground broccoli and jicama which is a Mexican type potato. Plus a clove of minced garlic and a tablespoon of olive oil. As of late, Ebbey has become increasingly disinterested in her limited diet. So I’ve been adding a bit of ground beef liver to one or two meals per day. Once or twice weekly she gets a large tablespoon of raw pumpkin, millet and blueberries on occasion. Though mildly allergic, I also try to give her a couple tablespoons of salmon or sardines once or twice a week. Turkey is also good except that she will start scratching if given more than twice a week. Most every other food causes a reaction. She also gets ground vitamins, though I have to be careful there as well for allergies. So unless the meat is freshly prepared she gets a bit picky and refuses to eat or expects to be hand fed.

Big Bad Trucks

2005-11-12T01:17:00.000-08:00

The sound of a truck still scares me.

Found starving in a garbage dump, Ebbey lived as a stray for an unknown period of time. Even inside a house, she becomes frightened at the sound of a pickup truck. Feral dogs were used as target practice, where she was rescued, so I imagine the guys that were shooting at her may have driven trucks.

Coyote or Not

2005-11-11T01:17:00.000-08:00

Some dogs look like coyotes, and some coyotes act like dogs, so I’m not always sure if I should attack.

Likely attacked when she was starving in a garbage dump, Ebbey is now much larger and has developed a hate on for coyotes. Some urban coyotes are very bold, realizing that leashed urban dogs are no threat. I’ve often had them follow me and the dogs, despite Ebbey’s kill all coyote screaming barks.
The coyote is often spotted watching us from behind. Ebbey now hesitates to sniff and watch, before attack barking, because though it looks like a coyote, it could be a dog.

More Elevated Mice

2005-11-03T01:16:00.000-08:00

Mice are everywhere, even up in the bird feeder. i watch them from my window seat.

Though at risk of being eaten by magpies, mice have been climbing up and eating from a railing mounted bird feeder. Especially when the temperatures drop.

My Teeth are Fine

2005-11-01T01:15:00.000-08:00

Though I tolerate it, I don’t like my teeth brushed or cleaned.

My first vet was very proactive when it comes to dogs and stressed the need to keep a dog’s teeth clean. He sold me a tooth scaler which I used for my first dog and now for Ebbey. Though very stubborn in other ways, Ebbey seems to understand that her teeth need to be cleaned and has always allowed me to scale the tartar. I wish she was as patient when it comes to cutting her nails. Ridgebacks have very fast growing nails which need to be cut every week. Weekly cuttings are becoming more and more difficult.

Another Urban Raven

2005-10-26T01:13:00.000-07:00

Despite the fog, I spotted one of those black birdies in the tree.

Photographing a number of ravens for the film Search Dog’s Raven, Ebbey has developed a love hate relationship for the large black birds. Mostly because they get to eat food, she is not allowed to eat because of her allergies. They are also more cunning than a dog or wolf and Ebbey seems to know it. So when a black garbage bag was wrapped tightly around an overhead branch, it was tough convincing her that it wasn’t a raven.

Dogs Warning Me

2005-10-25T01:10:00.000-07:00

Other dogs are always warning me of danger, though I rarely see what it is.

Ebbey is an eternal optimist. Whenever a medium to small dog barks, she is certain it is trying to warn her of some impending danger. She looks around, but rarely sees what they are barking at. Of course the dog is barking at her. Whenever a large dog barks, Ebbey becomes nervous. She appears worried that the big dog is after her. It’s not so bad now that she walks with the rottweiler. But she still keeps her eyes open.

My first dog was a shepherd cross, which is why it saddens me that Ebbey is scared of shepherds. One attacked her when I first got her, and she has been wary of them ever since. She got along well with a shepherd who is the film Search Dog’s Raven, but becomes very anxious when we meet most shepherds.

Ebbey was playing with a border collie poodle cross, when a large black shepherd stormed towards the two dogs. Both dogs reacted submissively and the shepherd seemed focussed on dominating or biting the poodle cross. Ebbey ran after them to help her playmate, though not actively starting anything. Luckily the shepherd finally returned to it’s owner before any damage was done. Once he was on a leash, and realizing he couldn’t get her, Ebbey went into a stalking position. With her Rhodesian ridgeback heritage, it was as if he was a dangerous lion and she was about to do him in. However, she never did follow through.

Elevated Mousy

2005-10-20T00:45:00.000-07:00

My mistress often says the word mousy, which means there is one on the deck just outside the glass patio doors. But this time I couldn’t find him.

How do you point out a screen climbing mouse, when your dog automatically looks to the ground. With several bird feeders, we also support a number of mice in the backyard. One in particular shows no sign of fear when Ebbey glares at him through the glass. He has even been trying to get into the warm house, by squeezing through the patio doors and climbing up the screen. This time he climbed up the entire screen door and just perched there.

Another Good Chase Halted

2005-10-15T00:44:00.000-07:00

With my rottweiler friend, we could have captured the deer. But mistress stopped us.

We spooked a large buck, with massive antlers, who then stormed across our path. When I first got Ebbey, she and two other canine playmates chased a couple deer through a large park and across several roads. Ebbey was shriek barking, she was so excited. Minutes after the other two dogs returned, I thought I’d lost her for good or she had been badly kicked or run over by a car. Luckily about five minutes later, Ebbey returned in good health.

Prickly Encounter

2005-10-13T00:43:00.000-07:00

Despite my mistress yelling, my friend Grizzly and I went to investigate the prickly creature as it rested on the hill.

In the dark, the young porcupine looked like a large discarded bag. Grizzly’s owner and I were discussing recent porcupine sightings and within seconds both dogs were circling the young porcupine. Her quills were already erect and the dogs were circling closer and closer. I immediately ran up near the tail and started yelling at the dogs. Luckily, Ebbey came back submissively after the third yell. I put her back on leash and held her between me and the porcupine’s tail. She wears a harness, which gives me a fair amount of control. Grizzly, on the other hand, was not responding. His owner remained at a safer distance screaming for the dog to return. As I kept warning Grizzly not to approach, I tried to block his approaches to the porcupine. Finally, he went back to his owner. I was very pleased that Ebbey minded me. It’s quite a contrast to what was she was like when first adopted.

Hooter’s Back

2005-10-12T00:43:00.000-07:00

The big night bird was back. She perched in a tree and her hoots could be heard for over half a mile (1.5km).

Both the dogs and I stopped in our tracks to located where the great horned owl was perched. But we never did locate the tree.

Prickly Prey Continued

2005-10-05T00:42:00.000-07:00

This time, the prickly creature was following us. We tried to catch it, but mistress stopped us.

Trying to avoid capture, a younger porcupine panicked and headed up a gully. We tried to avoid him, but he ended up crossing directly in front of us and both dogs went insane. Luckily I held them back. I never knew a porcupine could move that fast.

Night Bird

2005-10-03T00:42:00.000-07:00

A very large bird was hooting, then swooped down past us into the grass.

I’m always amazed to see wild animals in and around urban areas. Over the last week or two, we’ve heard a weird hooting sound. I thought it was just kids pretending to be an owl. However, the same sound was followed by a great horned owl swooping after a mouse we had disturbed. Guess urban buildings were distorting the sound.

Ear Cleaning

2005-09-30T00:40:00.000-07:00

Though sometimes my ear needs cleaning, and I lay down to have it done, I really don’t like it.

Dogs with allergies, often have ear infections. Allergies irritate the ear’s mast cells which leads to increased production of ear wax and other secretions, which can then become infected by skin bacteria and attract yeast spores unless regularly cleaned. Infections occur much faster in floppy eared dogs, due to increased temperature and less air flow. No matter how careful I am with Ebbey’s diet, allergies flare up from time to time. Strangers sometimes feed her a biscuit without asking, which can lead to her vomiting. Even chewing the wrong tree branch or eating a bug can trigger itching. Luckily, Ebbey’s health is now very good and most reactions now involve a bit of scratching and increased ear discharge. You can always tell when there is a problem, as she either starts shaking her ear or it may also feel very hot. I’ve avoided any ear infections by cleaning the ear daily.

Coyote Vigil

2005-09-26T00:41:00.000-07:00

Coyotes followed us home and I must protect the house.

Ebbey got into a bit of trouble today. A couple coyotes followed us home and she stormed into another room to bark at the window. Unfortunately, her fast movement and her leash whipped into a soundproofing panel and broke off a wedge.

Familiar and Frightening Sounds

2005-09-23T00:40:00.000-07:00

Several loud bangs, brought back bad memories.

Found starving in a reservation garbage dump, where feral dogs are often used as target practice, several distant gun shots spooked Ebbey during our walk. Even though eighteen months have passed, the memories of those sounds frighten her to the core.

Unidentifiable Shadow

2005-09-20T00:39:00.000-07:00

While my mistress is scared of the big black shadow and the rottweiler is eager to investigate, I’m still not sure if I want to see what it is.

Several times this summer, after dark, we’ve seen a large animal at a distance. Size wise it could be an extra large porcupine or a younger black bear. Once it was rummaging through someone’s flowers, another time it was sitting slumped over on a hill. We always see it at a distance and generally under poor lighting conditions. As a writer, my imagination can invent all kinds of unearthly explanations. Handling two large very strong canines, I don’t want to push my luck by venturing too close. So the creature’s identity remains unknown.

Prickly Prey

2005-09-14T00:39:00.000-07:00

Not sure what it was, but there was an incredibly great critter to chase on the highway.

Sometimes we use a footbridge to cross over a highway and one night we spotted a porcupine walking up the grassy median below. Both dogs were captivated, and watched the prickly rodent silently for over five minutes.

Killer Kitties

2005-09-02T00:38:00.000-07:00

Three kitties were guarding their house, two of whom came after me and the rottweiler.

I’ve now seen four houses, which are guarded by cats. This particular one has two large ones and a smaller backup kitty who all have an intense dislike for dogs. The two larger ones came within swatting distance as we walked by. The rottweiler was eager to oblige, but Ebbey is more cautious when it comes to cats. She’ll chase if they run, but respects any kitty who holds their ground.
Another house has a stalker cat who will aggressively escort you off his property.

Scent is My Life

2005-08-22T00:35:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more important than scent.

My first dog was a shepherd, so adjusting to a sight and scent hound is more difficult than I anticipated. Ebbey is a Rhodesian ridgeback cross and has very high instincts when it comes to potential prey. Today is a good example. Despite oncoming cars, Ebbey stopped to smell a scent in the middle of the road and was virtually immovable. Pulling, and soon yelling, I was unable to budge her from the scent. Luckily I finally yanked her across the road before we became roadkill.

Alien Bunny

2005-08-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

It seemed dead, but then it’s shiny blue eyes followed us.

Before dawn, a very unusual creature was lying in the middle of the highway. It looked wet, and I thought it may be covered in blood. The light revealed an unusual blue eye shine, so we wondered if it was injured. As we walked closer, for a better look, the alien creature turned out to be a discarded house plant. It’s large roots splayed out like legs from a broken jewel encrusted pot. The two large blue acrylic stones looked like eyes from certain angles, and Ebbey’s rottweiler walking partner remained certain this was some kind of alien bunny. Ebbey’s nose told her otherwise, though she also continued to watch carefully.

Teacup Bunny

2005-07-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

Out for a nighttime walk, a tiny critter was resting on some rocks in the alley. As we passed by, it suddenly took off. Only it was a mini sized bunny.

Snowshoe hare populations seem to be booming in western urban areas, but I have never seen such a young hare on it’s own. This one was either separated from it’s mother or orphaned, as it was about the size of a donut.

Flying Mousy

2005-07-20T19:02:00.000-07:00

I almost caught another mouse, until it flew away. I was so surprised, I nearly fell back on my bum.

Just before bed, Ebbey went out in the back yard. Something quickly got the attention of either her nose, her eyes or her ears. As she bounded over towards the rustling grass, the mouse suddenly took flight and escaped. Previous mouse encounters did not include flying and Ebbey nearly fell back on her bum. Based on the size, it was likely a small brown bat feeding on an insect. Luckily it escaped Ebbey’s fast pounce.

Hide and Seek Birdies

2005-06-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: They visit my bird feeder, then play hide and seek.

Like sparrows and starlings, the nonnative Hungarian or gray partridge is now a common species in North America. During the winter, they often feed on bird seed which smaller birds drop on the ground from our bird feeder. We also throw wheat down for them.

Ebbey really gets excited when they visit. She sometimes makes convincing displays to go outside, but her real aim is to chase partridge. She regularly searches for these ground birds on walks, hoping to catch one as they take off in flight. Except for this one day. Three birds took off, but one bird remained on the ground and just stood there. Living in a garbage dump, Ebbey has learned not to judge by size. (Except for mice. All mice are up for grabs.) Garbage dump cats are extremely fierce and Ebbey will not chase a cat that stands it's ground. Seeing this small gray partridge standing it's ground, Ebbey thought twice. By then I had her collar and the bird scrambled away. I suspect it was a young bird who had just used up one of it's lives.

This one night we saw a partridge scalp itself on a powerline. Feathers flew as the bird skinned it's head and back. Not a good mistake during the cold of winter.

Love the Bunny

2005-06-17T04:34:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: One day I will catch the bunny!

Urban snowshoe hare populations have increased lately in the west, and they seem to be everywhere. Luck has been with me as Ebbey has never had the opportunity to chase one. She can encounter one or two on leash, but after the third or fourth her enthusiasm turns into screams of anticipation. I chant that she must Love the Bunny...and sometimes this reduces the screams. When walking with the J (a large rescued rottweiler cross), the two dogs have dragged me through a number of different terrain while chasing the bunny. This includes mud, snow and even steamy abandoned dog poop on one occasion.

Ebbey’s New Window Look Out

2005-06-09T00:26:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: I guard the property from coyotes and closely watch those naughty birds.

Moving most of my stuff out of storage, I’ve filled an entire room where I am currently staying. It took a day to reorganize the boxes, and now Ebbey has a nice corner window bed to look outside. Granted, there is only a two foot wide path through the room of boxes, but the ongoing rain has provided a jungle of green foliage for the former starving stray to survey.

One bird feeder hangs near one corner window, with a trough feeder on the other side. Larger birds like crows, magpies and even the odd raven frequent the trough. Though resentful that chicken liver is being fed to such creatures, Ebbey has now resigned herself to this fact. Even smaller birds like chickadees and robins seem to like the beef fat. Purchased at an incredible savings, I soon discovered Ebbey is allergic to chicken and any part thereof including their liver.

We also have quite a community of mice and voles, surviving on the bird left overs that fall to the ground. This is particularly entertaining for Ebbey as she has been known to consume such critters. This is likely how she survived during her abandoned days, though she is allergic to mice as well. Anytime she holds one in her mouth, and the frightened creature does what a frightened creature does when held in the jaws of death, Ebbey soon starts scratching and rubbing.

Some of the mice are barely the size of a penny, and seem to have about as much sense. A certain percentage of these runty rodents are predated by the crows and magpies. I’ve also witnessed a falcon kill a sparrow feeding at the bird feeder. So Ebbey actively monitors the ongoing back yard dramas.

Coyotes ARE Evil!

2005-06-07T02:28:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: My suspicions are confirmed. Coyotes are evil. Two tried to kill my Bu.

Ebbey, J (a large rescued rottweiler cross), Bu (Ebbey’s large 14 year old geriatric friend) and I were out for a walk. It was dark and no one else was around. Bu has her moments of vigor, but generally drags along behind. As we passed a green area, a silhouetted coyote was standing under a street light. Ebbey wasn’t quite sure what kind of dog this was and reluctantly continued to walk. Within seconds, she broke into her viscous bark coyote screaming mode as the coyote and a second one crossed the street behind us. Keeping all three dogs in close proximity, I tried to usher the scream barking and circling ridgeback down the hill. Ebbey’s screaming suddenly became more violent as the coyotes crossed back and began following. They seemed attracted to her distress and were moving in for an opportunity to poach Bu. Despite my cussing, Ebbey’s scream barking and the J’s aggressive circles the coyotes kept coming towards us. Finally a few cars turned off the freeway and they took off. I like coyotes, but am annoyed that some urban dwellers have become so aggressive. Not many country coyotes would be this bold.

Dog Stranger

2005-06-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: There's One Dog I Just Won’t Watch.

Whenever there's a break, I try to sort through usable shots I’ve archived. And whenever you film animals, for a feature film and a potential television spin off, you take a lot of footage.

Ebbey often hangs around when I’m editing. She’s captivated by the wolves, the raven, other dogs and even some of the cast she worked with. However, when it comes to watching herself on screen, she just can’t wrap her canine mind around the concept. Or maybe she’s like some other actors who just can’t stand watching themselves on film.

Pheasant in the City

2005-06-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: I saw a huge birdie, my mistress called a pheasant in the city. It’s long neck is a perfect handle, if I just could have spotted it before my leash snapped on.

It isn’t often you see a big colorful male pheasant in an urban park.

Coyote Encounter

2005-05-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: Coyotes are Really Evil!

Walking Ebbey, the J (a large rescued rottweiler cross) and Bu (Ebbey’s large 14 year old geriatric friend), a large male coyote was loping by and stopped on a hill to look down on us. He was only about 50 feet away. Ebbey broke into scream barking mode, and began jump circling as the other two dogs watched. Ebbey bumped Bu in her fervor, knocking the old dog onto her butt. This led me to grab the scruff of Ebbey’s neck for a reprimand. Just about the same time, her harness broke. Someone was looking out for us, as this prevented Ebbey from running at the coyote and possibly getting herself maimed or worse. Someone had found the remains of a border collie sized dog, in this coyote’s territory, so I’m not sure how a crazed ridgeback would fare against a big male.

Pet Store Visit

2005-05-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: After waiting in the car, forever, I got to sniff toys and food but never got any.

Took Ebbey into a large pet store for a second visit. Ironically almost a year to the day, when I had first adopted her. What a difference a year makes. It was almost like taking another dog, she was so well behaved. Well except for two of the people who stopped to pet her, whom she crotch sniffed. But otherwise, she was great. Ebbey’s never been bathed, but I bought some gentle oatmeal dog shampoo in case I ever get up the nerve. Luckily her coat and skin are nearly odorless.

Growly Golden

2005-05-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: I met a huge growly gold dog today.

Barely fluent in English, a Japanese couple were walking a huge golden retriever. Ebbey has been bitten three times, so I’m very careful to prevent a fourth incident. She also won’t defend herself, and lies down submissively, which seems to escalate the aggression in certain dogs. Luckily the golden was all growl and no bite. Ebbey was still a bit frightened, with the ridge on her back totally raised. Talking to both dogs, the man kept trying to pet Ebbey’s raised ridge down as if this would calm her.

Ebbey Revisits the Banff Gondola

2005-05-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ebbey: Finally many people recognized me for the wonderful dog I am!

In order to reorient myself to the scenery, Ebbey and I revisited the Banff Gondola as tourists. The Banff Gondola and surrounding area is one of the locations in the upcoming film 'Search Dog's Raven'.

Visitors went wild over Ebbey, asking to have their photo taken with the dog and petting her. It was wild considering none of them yet knows that Ebbey is in a film.