Double Trouble

Venus and Finley, two gorgeous Vizslas from the same household, recently stayed with me. Despite the title of this post, they weren't trouble -- just high energy fun.




They each have really distinct personalities:



Finley is the athlete, focused on the ball. He tries to act serious, although he is quite playful.







Venus is more likely to be flirting with and charming the nearest person. She clowns around a lot and does her best to make everyone smile and pet her.


After getting to know Darda, Stella, and other Vizslas in the neighborhood, and now Venus and Finley, I've become a real fan of the breed. They aren't for everyone, of course -- they are high energy dogs originally bred for hunting, and they need LOTS of exercise. They also tend to be sensitive or high-strung if not well socialized from a very early age-- but they are excellent cuddlers, sweet and loving, and are a lot of fun to have around. Whatever breed you might be interested in, it's always a good idea to do your homework before adopting: research breed characteristics, and talk to people who own the same type of dog.


For more pictures of Venus and Finley, please visit the photo page of my website.

Dexter On Board

Meet Dexter, the newest addition to my dog playgroups. He is tiny terrier mix of some kind, but has a huge personality, and will charm the socks off of any person he meets.

Dexter was a rescue animal available through the Milo Foundation, an animal rescue organization in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, and his new family brought him home only a few weeks ago. Due to their excellent preparation, Milo is taking all the changes in his life in stride. He is fairly well-socialized with people and is getting over any minor fears he started off with.


Training can play an important role in successfully welcoming a new pet into your household. There are many excellent positive reinforcement based training classes in San Francisco. Dexter's family has chosen a training class at the San Francisco SPCA (see info on their training classes here)


Dexter is still a little nervous on occasion at the dog park, but seems to be adjusting quickly, and has even made a few friends, like Thelma, who is another Milo dog.

One of my favorite things about Dexter is his prancing or strutting walk -- it's beautiful and funny at the same time, and it definitely shows off his personality. For more photos of Dexter, click here.