Category: Boston Dogs

Sunday Dog, Solie – Super Squirrel Hunter!

Looking into her eyes, you probably can’t tell that Solie is a super squirrel hunter. There’s a certain cool, calm, confident quality about her gaze. After all, this is not an ability developed overnight. It comes from years of real-world experience born out of deep concentration.

This 4 ½ year old from New Hampshire has mastered the art of visualization. She remains in this state until she senses the presence of a her favorite little rodent. At that critical moment (known only to Solie) her eyes suddenly point skyward.

Amazing accuracy! She’s spotted a furry tail and now must wait, but not for long!

As you can see, Solie is quite the athlete and very strong. When the snow piles up, her people told us they hang-on while she actually takes them on a “Nantucket Sleigh Ride.”

“She’s not a dog that trots quietly by you through the park. You have to have space for her.”

“She makes people laugh. She makes people happy,” they said, “She’s a comical, harlequin kind of goofy dog.” And she’s, “very intuitive. If you just think about giving her a bath, she starts slinking away.”

“She can do it all– she can climb, she can hike, she cuddles, swims, hunts…pretty much a very versatile sort of dog.”

Thanks for being our Sunday Dog, Solie. You are truly “super” in many ways!

For a quick trip to our photo gallery to see these and more photos of the beautiful Solie, click here.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those add a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

February 26, 2012
Sunday Cat, Sophia and Her Glass Harmonica

Wine shop cat Sophia pawsing for our BostonZest cameras as she practiced her bottle-browsing technique at Bauer Wine & Spirits. This 9-month-old cutey is impossible to ignore as she seemingly grows more adventurous and entertaining by the day.

We’re not really sure whether Sophia is checking the wine inventory or learning to play the glass harmonica– an under-appreciated instrument (a version of which was) invented by Ben Franklin in 1761. As far back as the Renaissance, people were making sounds by rubbing the rim of a wine goblet with moistened fingers, so damp paws could work.

Whatever this playful feline is up to, we wanted to share her photo and hope it makes you smile. Sophia, you are one special cat!

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs (and an occasional cat) at Boston Dogs.

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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those add a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

February 19, 2012
3 Warm Tips for Frigid Dog Walks!

Br-r-r-r! Dog Walker Dan Hazelwood with Cleo (left) and Cooper

While wrapping your pup for a cold winter walk, remember to turn-up your own heat. If you’re warm, you’re pup will have more fun!

Let’s be honest, once all the important “business” is done, it’s very tempting to quickly head back inside.

But, you both need time to stretch your legs, greet some friends, and sniff (at least one of you does). So, in the interest of doing right by our furry friends, we asked veteran dog walker Dan Hazelwood of Boston Pet Sitters how he conquers the winter chill.

Play Time! Duddly (foreground) with Cleo and Cooper…

3 Warm Tips for Frigid Dog Walks

Layering is Key- “I always start off with a heavy hooded sweatshirt, a fleece scarf, and my Patagonia parka,” Dan said.

“When the temperature is above freezing, I can get away with wearing jeans with extra shorts underneath, but sub-freezing calls for my EMS rain pants over sweat pants. The rain pants are great insulators, and I wear this combination down to zero degrees.”

Shoes Made for Winter Walking- “I have a few different pairs of shoes or boots I wear in the winter, from North Face Hedgehog walking shoes for everyday use to the Sorel Caribou, the most heavy-duty snow boots you can find.”

“The key with any footwear is to start with polyester sock liners under wool or synthetic hiking socks.”

Warm Hands- “I have found the best leather gloves at Army/Navy surplus stores, and I often have 10-hour hand warmers, too.”

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those add a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

February 12, 2012
In Memory of Our Sweet Maggie Mae

Maggie Mae (August 20, 1996 to January 29, 2012)

She was our Sunday Dog, our Monday dog, our summer dog, our winter dog.

Oh, how she loved the snow!

And, walking on the beach.

And, sitting on a bench in the park or on a deck overlooking the sea.

She loved other dogs and people and spent her life making humans smile just by trotting down a Boston sidewalk with her little tail wagging away.

She was that kind of dog.

Her unconditional love for us was a most precious gift and each day she brought laughter and joy into our lives.

Last Sunday, we held her close as we gave her our final gift, a peaceful end.

Maggie introduced us to so many wonderful people and dogs over the years. She captured the hearts of people near and far. We know we are not going to be the only ones missing our little elf.

Because some of you have asked, donations may be sent in her name to your choice of the following places or to your own special animal charity if you have a favorite. And, please give your own companions an extra hug or some special time together in her memory.

WestieMed

The MSPCA

ARLBoston

Thanks to everyone who has offered comfort and support in our time of grief.

From a happier time:

Here's a link to the piece we did on Maggie in honor of her 15th birthday.

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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

February 5, 2012
Tips on “Being” from Sunday Dog, Ollie

To hear Ollie tell it, there’s no deep, philosophical secret to being a dog. While he admits it does take a bit of concentration, the most important thing to remember is, “Don’t over-think life. Just be yourself. And always, always be ready to PLAY!

This five year old Miniature Poodle loves everyone. Besides having energy to spare, his breed is known as “the second most intelligent” in the canine world. That’s why we felt confident asking Ollie to share his life experience with all of us.

His favorite toy? “The newest one!" Since everybody gives him toys, after they’ve been in the house for a month or so, Ollie passes them on to Buddy Dog– a shelter in Sudbury, MA.

Ollie always wears his boots this time of year. He loves the snowy, wintry weather, but not the rock salt which several veterinarians have warned him can trigger his epilepsy.

Ollie recommends an ice-melt that’s safer for paws and the dogs attached to them, and safe for the environment.

Great tips, Ollie! Thanks for sharing. You’re an amazing Sunday Dog!

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Need some Valentine's Day gift ideas? Click over to Amazon and do some planning and if you do buy something there, they'll put a few coins in our tip cup.

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photos: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those comments add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

January 22, 2012
Sunday “Buddha” Dog, Lily

Sunday Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, as well as, temperaments. But, we have to admit to never having met any pup quite so centered as Lily. We ran into her the other day while she was out for a bit of exercise.

This Yellow Lab seemed so friendly and at ease with strangers, that we weren’t at all surprised when she so willingly granted us an interview.

Lily revealed that at home she’s often described as a "Buddha dog." So Zen– nothing bothers her.

                       Sh-h-h-h… She's Meditating

Besides being a deep thinker and extraordinarily calm, Lily wants to be with people as well as dogs. She looks forward to early morning walks along the Charles with her pals: Myrna, Lucy, Buddy, Tahoe, Archie and their humans.

When spending time at her country home, she likes making her rounds to see all the neighbors, who always seem ready with a special treat.

In addition to being very social, Lily admits she loves to eat– everything! But, her favorite treat has to be apples! Out in the country, she’s been known to jump off the porch to go snag an apple from under a nearby tree. She carries it home, plays with it, and then devours her snack with pride.

Lily is also a big believer in recycling! Nothing goes to waste, she said, including handfuls of her shedding spring coat during an outdoor brushing. Lily watches with fascination as birds swoop in to scoop-up free nesting material.

This extraordinary beauty told us she’s planning a special event to celebrate her upcoming 10th birthday. Details are not set, but she expects to spend the day with all of her friends. And, of course, there will be plenty of … APPLES!

See ya, Lily. You’re a one-of-a-kind Sunday Dog!

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Need some Valentine's Day gift ideas? Click over to Amazon and do some planning and if you do buy something there, they'll put a few coins in our tip cup.

Details:
Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those add a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

January 15, 2012
Sunday Dog, George Wants to Say Hi…

All together now, “Hi, George!” It’s the first thing I find myself saying anytime this friendly, good-natured, easy-going guy walks by. There’s no doubt in my mind that if he could have formed the words, he would have said it first. Just look at that face!

It’s easy to understand why George is such a popular figure in his Boston neighborhood– he never has a bad word to say about anyone. If you’re having an off day, he has the uncanny ability to sniff out that hidden smile. No doubt a quality that’s also helped him become a registered visiting therapy dog.

At seven-and-a-half, this handsome Golden Retriever stays in shape by walking to work with one of his very close human friends.

George has lived with his family ever since he was three. His people, who found him with the help of Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue in Hudson MA, say, “He’s like their poster dog. He’s such a great dog!”

We couldn’t agree more. See you soon, George. And, thanks for agreeing to star as this week’s Sunday Dog.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often those add a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

January 8, 2012
Sunday Dog, Remy– in Search of His Family Tree

Remy is a happy, well-adjusted, 11 month old with a question, “Have you seen my family tree?” Plucked from a New York shelter with the help of PetFinder, this handsome guy is curious about his ancestry.

Some of his friends think he’s a lot like an Australian Shepherd.

Hmmm. Remy does like to play hard, especially when he gets to spend time with his Portuguese Water Dog buddy who lives in Melrose.

Remy Sniffing for Clues

Others are sure they see some Collie in his genes– Bearded Collie? Rough Collie? Maybe, Border Collie?

Remy is very friendly, so the fact that he has a reputation as a "big kisser" won’t surprise you.

Wait, aren’t Bernese Mountain Dogs big kissers? After all, they’re often described as affectionate, loving, and sweet. And, Remy certainly has the same ears and coloring of that breed. But, what about that distinctive tail?

Remy told us he’ll be checking the Comments Section of BostonZest for any ideas you might have about his relatives. What do you think?

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Brrrr! It's chilly this weekend, and we're pulling out some jackets for our little Westie, Maggie Mae. We're always amazed by how well her Fido Fleece Dog Coats hold up after winters of washing. Remember, if you're going to shop at Amazon, start from here, and they will reward us with a bit of BostonZest income.

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photos: © 2011 Penny Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people who are part of the places, and services we cover. Often those comments add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

December 18, 2011
Sunday Dog, Featuring “The Amazing, Cian!”

Presenting the “Amazing, Cian”– the Welsh Terrier who can read minds!

"You’re thinking, 'What a cute little guy.' Right?"

Besides meaning “amazing,” Cian (KEE-in) is Gaelic for “ancient.”

“What’d You Call Me?"

Whoa! Down Boy! You’re not quite two, so there’s no way anyone could think you’re ancient. But, your breed, is!

“I don’t have to listen to this!"

Born on St. Patrick’s Day 2010, this not-so-ancient Welsh Terrier, full name Cian Finn (in honor of his person’s dad) is said to be “the oldest existing dog breed in the UK.”

While originally raised as a hunter, today’s Welsh Terrier is more at home in the show ring and looking “extremely” handsome just posing for his adoring fans.

"Ya know, I think I’m starting to like this guy.”

Cian’s favorite toy is “any ball.” He plays fetch, knows: rollover, paw, heal, and halt.

This energetic terrier likes people & dogs but HATES SKATEBOARDS! And, he isn’t a big fan of delivery guys wheeling “big” hand trucks either.

Besides being very protective of his person, this pup has learned that good things are often hiding inside stuff, so you always have to sniff out the treats.

"Found it! My favorite cookie!"

Thanks for being our Sunday Dog, Cian. You are truly “amazing.”

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Time to get ready to take our dogs out in Boston's winter weather. We recommend tucking those toes into Pawz dog boots. They're Maggie tested and BostonZest approved. Miss Maggie also has pals who prefer Musher's Secret. That's another way to protect paws from salt and ice damage.

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2011 Penny Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers’ comments, we welcome hearing from the people that are part of the places and services we cover. Often, those comments add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

December 11, 2011
Sunday Dog, Taco – Country Boy Discovers City Life!

For a country boy who’s spent his formative “months” romping in the open spaces of north central Massachusetts, Sunday Dog Taco is learning all about city life. This gorgeous, red merle, Australian Shepherd, originally from Ashburnham (about an hour west of Boston), is a very friendly one year old who loves other dogs.

This Aussie’s stunning coat is only surpassed by those captivating eyes– very useful for a any herding breed.

We met Taco as he was sniffing out the landscape…

A Little Bit of Country Right Here in the Big City!

Getting to know a new place always takes some time and can be a bit lonely in at first. Taco’s person told us that he loves doggy daycare and has met a number of dogs, which has been helpful.

Like most Australian Shepherds, this guy is full of energy and needs a lot of activity and stimulus. He loves to play and is always on the lookout for a new playmate.

Because Aussie’s are very intelligent and learn quickly, it’s no wonder they excel at search & rescue, detection, and as service dogs.

Taco got to know us quickly, letting us photograph him– almost posing at times. He loved getting the attention as much as we loved showering him with it.

We left our Sunday Dog with a goodbye pat as he greeted more new friends. I think our country boy is made for the city.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

And, learn more about Aussies at Checkerberry Australian Shepherds.

Looking for a deal to check an item off your holiday list? Here's a link to the latest deals at Amazon.

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Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2011 Penny Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers’ comments, we welcome hearing from the people that are part of the places and services we cover. Often, those comments add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

December 4, 2011