Two's A Crowd

Andy's Going to Summer Camp (Again)!

My husband and I are hitting the road for a week. We're sad to leave the boys behind but take comfort in knowing they'll be in good hands. Andy is boarding at Camp Bow Wow again and I know he'll have a good time roughing it up with the other pups there.  We'll be checking in on him online via Camp Bow Wow's Camper Cam and enjoy his antics from afar. A neighbor will be looking in on Pablo and Diego and I know the kitties will appreciate the respite from rambunctious Andy. I have mostly photos planned for the week but will back in full blogging mode as soon as we get back. Till then!

How Pets Improve Our Health

According to WebMd pets offer their human companions numerous health benefits:

• They can lower our cortisol levels - the hormone associated with stress.
• They can increase the production of serotonin - a chemical associated with well-being.
• They can lower our blood pressure and heart rates.
• They can help us fight depression.
• They encourage daily physical activity.
• They provide companionship.
• Children that grow up in pet households are less likely to develop allergies and have stronger immune systems.

Check out WebMD's slideshow, "Find out 27 Ways Pets Can Improve Your Health," for more interesting ways animals help us live healthier lives.

The Artist's Wife and His Setter Dog

Thomas Eakins | The Artist's Wife and His Setter Dog | ca. 1884–89

Remembering Maxwell | My Therapy Pup

I like to think of myself as an easygoing, go with the flow kind of gal but every now and then I get a little frazzled. Now is one of those times. Work, a sick spouse, preparing to go out of town on Friday, and the impending start of another academic year are all looming large in my mind.
 

I miss Maxwell at times like these. He was my little therapy pup. He was so attune to my feelings and always seemed to know when I needed a quiet moment and a furry shoulder to lean on. A perfect evening was me, Maxwell, and a good book on the couch after a long day. Andy and I have yet to develop a relationship like this. We're still in the "getting to know you" phase, and besides, he still has so much puppy exuberance it's hard to get him to sit still for more than two minutes. I'm not complaining though because I know our relationship will season with time. Throughout my life I've been blessed to have canine companions see me through my highs and lows. They have kept me grounded and been a source of comfort and joy. Everyone should have a therapy pup!

Hello and Good Morning