Boerboel Farm Dogs

Update on Tula, a Boerboel in Need

2012-01-25T11:43:00.000-08:00

This update is from Lisa, Tula's foster, on January 25, 2012:

She is doing really good!!! Still coughing but not real bad. Eats her food right away no nit picking anymore or trying to bury the food.

Last night I heard her bark for the first time.... What a deep woof she has. Doing better about having dogs by her cage. Doesn't like it when they are rude and rush her cage, I don't blame her on that one. She is friendly to everyone she meets! She is being a really good foster!!!!

Tula has a vet appt on the 30th to recheck her lungs will let you know how that goes.

Lisa & Tula

Tula - a Female Boerboel in Need

2012-01-13T11:03:00.000-08:00

Tula is a female Boerboel that was pulled from a high-kill shelter in Michigan. She is being cared for by a temporary foster. She was taken to a vet yesterday for a health check-up, and unfortunately she tested heartworm positive. We are seeking donations to help with her medical expenses while we look for a permanent home for her.

Please help if you can. Even donations as small as $5 or $10 will go a long way to help Tula. Thank you, and God bless!

Female Boerboel for Adoption in Michigan - Tula

2012-01-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

Tula, Female Boerboel for Adoption

Tula is a female Boerboel that is currently located in a shelter in Michigan. We are looking for someone to adopt her or foster her. She needs to get out of the shelter as soon as possible, as they will only hold her for a short period of time.

She was brought in by someone who said they found her two months ago. He said she looked like she had been running. She was very thin and in poor shape. When found, she weighed 120 pounds. The shelter is not sure what she weighs now, but she is not thin anymore. The person who brought her to the shelter said that she is house-trained, and was good with his kids. He released her to the shelter because he travels, and she is too much dog for his wife to manage when he is gone.

Tula was released to the county on January 6, 2012. A person at the shelter went out with the trustee to get Tula from the van. She was great getting out of the car for the trustee and walked right up to the shelter worker. She walked well on leash, and licked the shelter worker's hand as she stood waiting for Tula to check her out. The remainder of that day, Tula was quiet in her pen and would lick the shelter worker's hand through the fence and was friendly.

The shelter's most experienced volunteer tested Tula on Saturday. Tula has no chip that they could find. She was fine when given the hug test that they do. They put their arm around the dog's head and lift the far paw. She also passed the resource test with canned food. They touch the dog while they are eating using a fake hand and then reach in the bowl. The tester then brought in a medium-sized Aussie mix (male) to test Tula with other dogs. She did not react to him at all. The testers did notice as they were walking dogs by on leash that she would bark and become agitated.

On January 9th, the volunteers worked with Tula again. They brought in a Border Collie/GSD mix (female). After a few seconds, Tula charged the gate that separated the dogs. They questioned her with other dogs.

She also has a pad on her right hind leg that has an open sore on it. You can see it in one of her pictures. There are also a couple of other hot spots on her skin and some scabs. Otherwise, her coat looks good. She is a drooler! She takes treats gently, loves her rump rubbed and looks like she may have had puppies in the past.

We need to find Tula a foster family or permanent home that can take her in and give her the love that she needs. The shelter where she is currently located does not have a screening process for adoptions, and they are afraid that she could end up in the wrong hands. Plus, her time at the shelter is limited. She could also start to stress out from being in the shelter -- behavior can change and she most likely would be euthanized. The shelter workers believe she would be a good girl in the right hands with the right people.

Working Boerboel Events/Seminars

2011-11-27T15:46:00.001-08:00

It is exciting that there are some groups organizing some working events for Boerboels. I plan to attend both events with Azaan and Jaf.

The American Boerboel Club is hosting several fun and educational events in early 2012. A two-day tracking seminar is scheduled for the end of March 2012, and a herding instinct test (HIC) is along with a temperament test (ATTS) is scheduled for May 2012. All events are open to all breeds, with preference given to Boerboels.

The temperament test and HIC test are scheduled for May 5th and 6th, and they are being conducted at Keepstone Farm in Berryville, VA. The two-day tracking seminar is scheduled for March 31-April 1, and it is being held in Upper Marlboro, MD. All breeds and beginner trackers are welcome.

It sounds like a great time! Please come out and join us. For additional information and to sign-up, visit:

American Boerboel Club Upcoming Events

Tracking Boerboels

2011-10-26T01:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted photos of my own dogs in a few months, so I figured I needed to get back to it! I have been tracking both dogs, and they enjoy it very much. I have a lot of fun with it too! These are a few photos taken this week of the dogs tracking over short grass as well as going through high vegetation in a field. Hopefully I will be able to get them tested soon so that we can enter a tracking trial.

The track started in a field of low grass where the higher vegetation was on the side:

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) Tracking

Then the track took a left turn into the higher vegetation. Both dogs easily made the turn and the transition into the field.

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) Tracking

There was another left turn in the field, then the track crossed a dirt/gravel road into a mowed area:

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) Tracking

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) 'Tracking

The track turns left and goes between two large pine trees. The article was on the other side of the pines. Good job, Jaf!

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) Tracking

Azaan tracks through the fields with the lower grass:

Power's Legendary Azaan Tracking

The track turns left into a field with higher vegetation:

Power's Legendary Azaan Tracking

Azaan's track also went through the large pine trees to one of the articles on the other side, but I didn't get any pictures. Both dogs love to track, and we are having a lot of fun with it!

Female Boerboel for Adoption

2011-07-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

This lovely brindle girl is available for adoption. She is 6 years old, and has been living in a home with a Weimeraner, Dachshund and Shiba Inu. She gets along with the other dogs, and is fine with people once she has a proper introduction. Her name is Nandi, and she is currently located in Northern VA outside of Washington DC.

I do not have a lot of information on this girl. If you think you might be interested, respond to this post and I will put you in touch with her owners. She looks like a nice dog.

Nandi is crate trained and housebroken. She is extremely docile for a Boerboel. Apparently she just wants to crawl into your lap and lick your face. She is up-to-date on all shots and microchipped.

Sit Stay and Down Stay at the Outdoor Shopping Plaza

2011-06-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

I took the dogs to the outdoor shopping plaza a few days ago, and worked on their sit stay and down stay with distractions. I would say they did pretty well!

Azaan in her sit stay:

Azaan and Jaf in a group down stay:

Boerboel Rescue: Young Brindle Male Boerboel for Adoption in Maryland

2011-06-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

There is a young brindle male Boerboel located in Southern Maryland that is looking for a permanent home. He looks like a nice dog. Hopefully someone will consider him in lieu of buying a puppy. He was born on 11/15/2009, so he is only about 1-1/2 years old. His name is Bronx.

He is currently located with www.SecondHopeRescue.org in Southern Maryland. All pertinent info and contact information listed in the following Photoshow.

Boerboel Rescue: Bronx, 1-1/2 year Brindle Male for Adoption

If you think you are interested, contact www.SecondHopeRescue.org. Thank you!

Boerboels by the "Score"

2011-06-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, the appraisal system for Boerboels is being over-used to sell puppies. If you are looking at Boerboel puppies, don't get caught up in the arbitrary score assigned by an appraisal system, a hip score or health score. These are only numbers, and are not indicative of the dog that you will be getting. At the end of the day, assess your requirements for a dog. You won't be living with a piece of paper or a score sheet. The Boerboel was meant to be a working dog, not a score.

A quick Google query of "Boerboel Puppies for Sale" shows the heavy advertising of Boerboels based on their score. The score doesn't make the dog, it's a way to advertise puppies and brag that your puppies are better than the next guys. Form follows function, not the other way around.

Alabama Tornado Victims and their Pets Need Our Help

2011-05-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

I have a friend with a Boerboel pup who lives in Northern Alabama and was caught up in the horrific tornadoes that ripped through the area last week. My friend lost his house, his barns, his champion reining stallion and a few mares. His 9-month-old Boerboel pup was ripped from his arms as he was trying to hold him down. Thankfully, some friends spotted the pup a few days later wandering around in a field. A veterinarian is graciously taking care of the pup while his owner tries to get back on his feet.

The Alabama tornado victims need our help in getting veterinarian care to the thousands of displaced dogs, cats and horses roaming through the area. There are some veterinarians in the area who are working around the clock to help care for these animals. Many of the dogs, cats and horses are still displaced, and no one knows who they belong to. The vets aren't turning any animals down because they don't know who the owners are. I urge everyone to help if they can. This link is to a ChipIn site where the donations go directly to a veterinarian clinic in the area that is taking in 4-legged victims of the AL tornadoes. Please help!

Zoey the Boerboel Has Been Rescued!

2011-04-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

OFA and Hip Extended View X-Rays to Determine HD in Dogs -- A Scam?

2011-04-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

Here are two recent articles written by the veterinarian profession that question the value of hip-extended view x-rays as a way to determine HD in dogs. Note that although these articles are written with regard to OFA, the hip-extended view x-rays are the same method used by BVA, FCI, etc. The more I research this topic, the more I realize that the traditional hip-extended x-rays are nearly a waste of time and money. For a vet to admit that it is a scam makes it even more believable. I read about so many breeders who brag about their Boerboel's "perfect" hip x-rays! If they are relying on anything other than PennHip, it looks the breeder can get more value out of those hip x-rays by using them as a tool to light their fireplace.

Is It Time to Put OFA to Sleep?

In a day and age when veterinarians are calling for evidence based medicine, perhaps we should start following the medicine we have evidence for and stop recommending OFA certification in young patients. Perhaps we should put the following disclaimer out to pet owners before we perform an OFA evaluation…

“Hey owner – I have this test we can do to look for hip dysplasia. It really only works well if your dog has severe disease. In most cases, where disease is so sever that this test will be meaningful, I can detect disease by simply feeling your dog's hips. In the vast majority of cases, however, the test does not really tell us much and we don’t even do a great job interpreting it anyway. I even have a radiologist that I can sent the test to who will tell us that unless things are really severe we don’t know much about whether or not your dog will develop hip dysplasia. If you are cool with that, I would be happy to take your money."

Evaluation of the Relationship between OFA Hip Scores and PennHip DI in Dogs

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Dogs judged as phenotypically normal by the OFA harbored clinically important passive hip joint laxity as determined via distraction radiography. Results suggested that OFA scoring of HE radiographs underestimated susceptibility to osteoarthritis in dogs, which may impede progress in reducing or eliminating hip dysplasia through breeding.

Zoey - A Female Boerboel Rescue Looking for a Home

2011-04-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

Great News! Zoey has been rescued and is living the good life at her new home with Julie at Mostly Molossers Menagerie. Julie, you are awesome!

***************

Zoey is a female Boerboel located in Pennsylvania, USA that is looking for a home. She is a former brood bitch. She was rescued from spending the rest of her life being bred. She is good with children and adults, but she isn't great with dogs. Julie made a cute slideshow of Zoey that shows some additional pictures of her:

Zoey Slideshow

For anyone interested, she is currently with Perry County Animal Rescue in Central Pennsylvania:

Perry County Animal Rescue

For additional information, you can send an e-mail to: PerryCountyAnimalRescue @ yahoo.com, or you can call 717-589-3005.

Jaf - Animation

2011-03-20T00:24:00.003-07:00

Jaf Running - Click on the Photo to Animate it

A Prayer for Morgan the Boerboel

2011-03-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

Great news! Morgan has been rescued by our good friend Paul in Plant City, FL. Paul opened up his heart to the plight of this poor girl, and marched out to the training center that had her and picked her up a few minutes before she was scheduled to be euth'd by a vet. Julie of Mostly Molossers Menagerie helped with the transition to Paul's house.

Thanks go out to Paul for giving Morgan a chance at life in a home where she can know love and kindness.

**********************************

My heart is heavy tonight after hearing about the fate of Morgan the female Boerboel from Tampa, Florida. Morgan will be 4 years old in April, but she won't get to see her 4th birthday. Her owners purchased her as a puppy, but they soon discovered they couldn't handle her and sent her off to a professional trainer. She has been living at the kennel/training facility since May 2009 in a 54" crate. Her owners have been paying her bills, but they never came back and got her.

Since that time, she was diagnosed with severe HD. Johnson's Mostly Mastiffs Menagerie has been trying for several months to get her shipped to Pennsylvania where she could have a warm, loving home with a family. Unfortunately, at the recommendation of a board certified ortho veterinarian, it was determined that Morgan's health problems were so severe that she would not have a good quality of life.

Dr. Pardo from PVSEC graciously went over all of Morgan's records, x-rays, photos and videos today, and the short version is that her hip dysplasia and muscle atrophy is so severe that she is not a good candidate for any surgery that will either work or help her in the long run. She also has at least one bad knee, and probably two. There were no guarantees for her future, or that she would ever truly be pain-free. Morgan will be 4 years old on April 12, 2011. She has resided in a kennel/training facility since May 2009 in a 54" crate waiting for someone to give her what she needed. Morgan has been failed by every person up until the last few weeks. It is undeniably painful and sad. Audrey has been the one person in Morgan's life who cared enough to work 'round the clock to find an end for Morgan's misery one way or the other. Morgan deserves the life we want for all of them -- a loving home and a happy, healthy, playful, pain-free life, but for Morgan hers now will be instead one of a peaceful release tomorrow, March 16, 2011.

Keep Morgan in your thoughts and prayers...and in your hearts going forward.

Snow Play - Boerboels Have Fun!

2011-03-02T22:09:00.000-08:00

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), shows his athleticism in the freshly fallen snow

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) does one of his patented slides and turns

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf)

Jaf with another one of his patented moves

Jaf enjoys his ball on a rope

Boerboels Jumping - 2011

2011-03-02T22:01:00.000-08:00

Azaan and Jaf show their form over fences as they negotiate a natural obstacle.

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf)

Power's Legendary Azaan

Power from the Rear

2011-03-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

A dog's power comes from its hindquarters. Powerful hindquarters help a dog to run, jump, and change direction suddenly without risk of breakdown. A dog uses his hindquarters for propulsion. All power comes from the rear.

Picture your dog's legs as springs. When they carry themselves evenly over their back legs with their weight evenly distributed, they are on springs at their optimum position. The dog can then propel himself left, right, forward, up or diagonally. With adequate power from the rear coupled with balance, a dog can propel himself in any direction with ease.

Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) demonstrates this concept perfectly. He can easily roll back on his haunches and propel himself straight upwards to a standing position. He doesn't need to use his front paws to climb or lean on anything for balance. As I said, all power comes from the rear!

Azaan and the Egge

2011-02-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

Azaan loves playing with the Egge when there is snow or ice on the ground. When it is dry land, it doesn't move as quickly so it has less interest for her. On dry land or grass, she seems to prefer playing with a soccer ball. The Egge gives her some good exercise as it works her into a frenzy trying to "catch" it.

Michael Vick Confronted by Owner

2011-02-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

Unconscious Cruelty to Animals

2011-02-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

A friend from the Nitro Foundation sent this quote from Dr. Albert Schweitzer. Based on my last post about a Boerboel breeder using an underage puppy in a breeding program for personal profit, I thought it was appropriate to add Dr. Schweitzer's quote to this blog.

“We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat the animals. Animals suffer as much as we do. True humanity does not allow us to impose such sufferings on them. It is our duty to make the whole world recognize it. Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace.”

For information on the capitalist breeder breeding puppies to produce puppies for financial profit, visit

http://boerboelfarmdog.blogspot.com/2011/02/breeding-from-underage-male-stud-puppy.html:

Breeding from Underage Male Stud Puppy - Yikes!

2011-02-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

I have written previously about why it is important to only purchase puppies out of breeding parents that are a minimum of 2 years old. Many health problems don't rear their ugly head until this age, and further you cannot know the dog's temperament until it has reached maturity.

I was browsing the internet the other day, and found these shocking online classified ads advertising a stud dog for hire in the UK, Immer Moed Zion, owned and advertised by Zion Boerboels. The puppy in question was only 10 months old when it was bred for the first time. He turned 1 year old on January 31, 2011, and his first litter is due on February 11, 2011. For those not inclined to do the math, the sire of this litter will be exactly 1 year and 10 days old when he becomes a father for the first time.

Since the ads may be taken down soon because of public outcry, I am taking the liberty of posting them here. This is not a libelous action on my part, because I am only publishing what the breeder has already written, cut and pasted from the breeder's website and the Boerboel Club, Active Boerboel Club, that supports the breeder. Needless to say, I would not recommend purchasing a Boerboel puppy from Zion Boerboels owned and operated by Karen Beattie and Adam McKendry. Breeding from an underage dog tells us volumes about the breeder's motives -- cash, cash and more cash. It is sad to see our pets used and abused in this manner:

This ad was posted on http://www.breedersonline.co.uk/, under Boerboel Stud Dogs (sic):

First litter from Immer Moed Zion, underage stud puppy, due February 11, 2011 as advertised on www.dogsandpuppies.co.uk. This exact same ad was also found on www.clickpets.co.uk/pets-dogs-otherbreedsofdogs.

This screenshot is from the breeder's website, Zion Boerboels, advertising "planned" litters. Note that the breeding bitch referenced, Zion Eva, is only about 7 months old at the time this was posted on the breeder's website and won't be 2 years old until 2012. Jumping the gun a bit, wouldn't you say?

One day after the breeder stated the litter didn't take, I found another litter that is due from this stud puppy. The dogs were bred in March, puppies due in May. Hurry up! The breeders need to line their pockets as fast as they can!! They can't wait until the dogs are mature, money needed now!

The Day Before The Night Before Christmas

2010-12-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

It was the day before the night before Christmas (December 23rd for those wondering trying to figure out my riddle), not a creature was stirring, not even a Mouse.

Of course, the Son of Mouse was stirring -- stirring up TROUBLE that is! Notice my genuine sheepskin slipper near Azaan's left back leg in the foreground of the first picture. The dogs have never tried to chew the slippers, but they love to carry them to the field to play with. As soon as they know we are heading out, one of them runs into the bedroom to grab a slipper to take with them. They toss it in the air, as though they are hoping it will come back to life. Baa-baa...

Boerboels, Winter 2010

2010-12-19T20:39:00.000-08:00

We have been having extremely cold weather for the last several weeks, breaking some records for cold in December. The dogs don't seem to mind, but I hate it! I haven't taken the dogs into the woods since deer season started Monday, November 29th, so this was the first time we have been out for several weeks. The dogs were in their glory! Jaf tracked down a deer (it was already dead, but he found it), and then he chased something up a tall tree. He and his best friend, Azaan, enjoy romping with each other.

We also went out tracking today. I laid the track on some very short, mowed grass that also had some snow cover on it. It was a 2-turn track. They did pretty well, but not as well as they did with the snow cover in higher grass. Maybe it is true that the scent sticks better to taller grass than shortly-cropped grass. I'm learning!

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), looking good at 17 months!

Boerboels Kick Up Their Heels in Fun! I wish I had their energy!

Jaf Romping for Fun:

Jaf Play Attacks his BFF, Azaan:

The Dogs Keep Their Butts Toned Climbing Hills in Sewickley Hills, PA, USA:

Woo Hoo!

I Know It's Up There Somewhere!

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), takes a short break:

Jaf on the Hillside at a Trot:

Jaf Scales the Mountain:

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 17 Months:

Azaan and Jaf having Fun -- Jaf is Off the Ground -- AGAIN!

Azaan Plays with the Manure Bucket

Jaf Cuts a Move

Jaf -- Off the Ground, Yes Again!

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 17 Months

A Beautiful Tribute to a Beautiful Boerboel

2010-12-07T20:11:00.000-08:00

This video is from a friend of mine, so I hope Gerry doesn't mind that I cross-post it. I liked this video so much that I just have to share it. It is really beautiful, and it sums up the loyalty and devotion of a Boerboel with its people. I think you will enjoy it. I have watched it several times, and I love the majesty and presence of the Boerboel. The male never takes his eyes off his handler, and the devotion shines through. I love it!

Foundation Tracking in Light Snow

2010-12-05T00:56:00.000-08:00

We got our first light snow of the Winter, and I decided to continue to work on the dogs tracking in these weather conditions. Both dogs seem to really enjoy tracking. Jaf nearly pulls me off the porch when he knows we are going tracking.

These aren't the greatest videos. I had to set up the camera on the tripod. I couldn't get the entire track into the screen, so some of the track is cut off. It consists of 3 turns. One turn is missing from this video because of the camera angle, but you can see the balance of the track in the snow. I am a novice at tracking, but you can see that the dogs have their nose to the ground and follow the track without encouragement. The end of the track and the article find are also cut off because of the position of the camera. When they get to the end and find the article, we have a little party!!

Jaf's first track in snow:

Azaan's first track in snow:

Azaan vs Manure Bucket

2010-12-03T01:50:00.000-08:00

I was in the field a few days ago and I used the manure bucket to pick up the casings that house chestnuts from the chestnut tree. When I tried to carry the manure bucket back to the barn, Azaan had different ideas. As soon as I started to carry it, she decided she would try her hand at it. She ended up having a bit of fun with the manure bucket!

If you got this far and you watch this video, then you will know that Azaan is a nut! I have always maintained that a Boerboel is a cross between Arnold Schwarzenegger, Albert Einstein and Mickey Mouse. You be the judge!

K9 Travel Bowl

2010-12-02T14:54:00.000-08:00

I love the new products coming out to make our lives easier for our dogs. Here is the latest -- it is a K9 Travel Bowl for water. It easily slips into the cup holder in your car. It features a wide enough opening so that the dog can drink, plus it has a spill resistant rim to prevent spilling. It also has a car-to-crate adapter so that you can attached it to the crate. I haven't tried it yet, but I have one on order.

Random Photos and Fun - November 2010

2010-12-01T01:24:00.000-08:00

Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) is 16 months old in these photos, and Azaan (Power's Legendary Azaan) just turned 3 years old in the middle of November 2010. Time flies! The two of them still get along super. They can play very rough with one another, but they never seem to take it personal. Both are extremely agile and athletic. I couldn't ask for better dogs.

We have been tracking about 4 - 5 times per week, and we are also working on obedience. I hope to get back to the Schutzhund Club soon.

Jaf executes his patented "airs above the ground" maneuver. Considering his size, he is one agile young man!

Jaf had just completed rooting through the ground after scenting on a mole. Note the dirt on his face. Funny pup!

Jaf after the tennis ball.

Jaf prefers Diet Coke to keep his figure trim.

Jaf's Liberace imitation? Or is this Jerry Lee Lewis?

Azaan still spends some time every day doing the zoomies.

Jaf, the serious side.

Azaan negotiating the log jump in the woods.

Boerboels play soccer.

Boerboel friends slow dance.

Whoppee!

Azaan gives Jaf a piece of her mind (someone has to keep him in line). Actually, she loves him a lot and they only play fight.

Jaf's butt continues to get muscled out!

Hey,sis, can I play too?

Jaf, another serious moment. Actually, I think he is plotting an attack on Azaan.

Jaf, aka Twinkle Toes.

Flying through the air with the greatest of ease...

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 16 months, bred by Jenny Wells of Quo Vadis Boerboels in South Africa.

Jaf, on a quick little jaunt.

Jaf's favorite pastime, picking on Azaan.

The red boy Jaf strikes a pose.

Jaf rarely is on all 4's...

Azaan takes a pouncing from Jaf.

Senator Grendell's Response to Nitro's Law, HB70

2010-11-29T14:32:00.000-08:00

I received this e-mail from Senator Grendell today regarding his support of HB70, Nitro's Law. I interpreted his e-mail as a polite response letting us know that nothing would get done on this Bill this year:

-----Original Message-----
From: Senator Grendell [mailto:SD18@senate.state.oh.us]
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 2:20 PM
To: sharon@coolfitwear.com
Subject: HB 70 (Nitro's Law)

Good Afternoon.

Thank you for writing to me regarding House Bill 70 (Nitro's Law).
Unfortunately, we were unable to hold hearings on HB 70 prior to the recess. However, I am in full support of Nitro's Bill and I appreciate your comments and support of the bill. I will continue to work with my colleagues to move this very important bill forward. Thank you so much for contacting me and please don't hesitate to let us know if you have any other concerns. Thank you again.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Grendell
18th Senate District

****************

Here is my response to Senator Grendell today:

Dear Senator Grendell,

I appreciate that you support House Bill 70 (Nitro's Law), but actions speak louder than words. I sense from the tone of your e-mail that this important vote will get delayed. I did not read anything positive about how it will be scheduled before year-end. If you really support the Bill, you will make sure that it gets advanced before the end of the year. There is plenty of opportunity.

Perhaps the real reason for the delay is because Republicans want to wait to take full control of the legislature and governor's office next year? It is public knowledge that Ohio lawmakers are not anxious to get much accomplished before the end of the year. Please reference Cleveland.com's article: http://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2010/11/state_lawmakers_likely_to_acco.html.

Senator Grendell, I urge you to move this important Bill forward -- right now, this year, no excuses. Otherwise your office is as guilty as Steve Croley himself. Steve Croley paid lip service to the owners who entrusted their pets to his care, and perhaps you are paying lip service to the public that you are supposed to serve? It is easy to pay lip service, and the last thing we need is more excuses. Please follow through and show us that you feel this Bill is important. I pray that you can stand up and be counted as a Senator that made a real difference for the animals.

Respectfully,

*****************

Please feel free to cut and paste or copy my response to Senator Grendell. I urge everyone to keep pushing forward on this important Bill. Through Senator Grendell's lack of positive action, I fear he is paying lip service to the taxpaying public much like Steve Croley paid lip service to the owners of the dogs in his care.

RIP, Nitro and the others who fought a hard battle but ended up going to a better place. You will never be forgotten.

Hey, Little Buckaroo, Stop Riding the Dog!

2010-11-22T23:01:00.000-08:00

I found this article from October, 2010 about people who think it's okay to let their children ride the family dog like a horse.

Stop Riding the Dog!

In the article, Dr. Sarah Bassman of Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine explains the health risks of letting your child ride on your dog's back. I think it is disrespectful, and dangerous to the dog and the child.

Interesting article!

A Brave Rottie's Fight for Nitro's Law, HB70

2010-11-22T21:32:00.000-08:00

Please support Ohio House Bill 70 and let's get this bill passed and signed into law. Call Chairman Tim Grendell Phone: (614) 644-7718 or Email: SD18@senate.state.oh.us of the Senate Judiciary Criminal Justice Committee. Chairman Grendell is able to decide whether Nitro’s Law HB70 will advance. If the bill doesn't get ...to the floor for a vote by the end of the year, IT DIES AND NOTHING CHANGES FOR THE ANIMALS

Here is another article from the Examiner published today regarding HB70, Nitro's Law:

Animal cruelty is more than a misdemeanor-stand up for Nitro’s Law - National Dogs | Examiner.com

Video of Azaan when she was 7 Weeks Old

2010-11-18T20:03:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Azaan when she was 7 weeks old playing with her littermates. This video was taken by her breeder. It is a video of the puppies first day outside. Azaan is the Irish-marked brindle. There is one other Irish-marked brindle pup, but it has a big white collar around its neck, and it is a little bit darker brindle. Azaan is the inquisitive pup, a bit taller than the others. She is the one that ventures behind the gas grill at 4:24. She is also on the cover photo that you can see below, peering around the back of the gas grill on her way out.

Boerboels vs Raccoon

2010-11-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

The dogs tangled with a coon in the woods on my property today. Boerboels: 1 Raccoon: 0

Jaf - Airs Above the Ground

2010-10-12T20:47:00.000-07:00

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 15 Months -- Jaf Attack on Azaan!

My dogs don't spend too much time with all 4 paws on the ground.

Jaf Attack!

The Serious Side

2010-10-12T01:43:00.000-07:00

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 15 Months

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 15 Months

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf) and Azaan, BFF

Having Fun

2010-10-12T01:37:00.000-07:00

The kids know how to have fun. Jaf is 15 months old in these photos. He;s getting big, but as you can see from the photos he is still very agile!

Boerboel/Black Russian Terrier Mix Pups Available for Adoption

2010-10-08T23:38:00.000-07:00

I was notified that there are three Boerboel/Black Russian Terrier mix pups that need adoption from Blue Lion Animal Rescue. The pups were born at the end of July 2010, and they are available for adoption now. If you think you might be interested in one of these pups, contact the Rescue directly: Boerboel/Black Russian Terrier Mix Pups Available for Adoption

Splish Splash

2010-09-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

The dogs enjoy an afternoon splashing and playing in the Big Sewickley Creek, Sewickley, Pennsylvania USA. We had good sunlight for taking pictures! These photos were taken in mid-August 2010.

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 13 Months

Azaan, Retrieving a Stick in Water

Azaan shows off her patented fast retrieve and return

Growing Up

2010-09-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

One day you bring your puppy home, and then you blink and the pup is all grown up. Jaf is still a baby with lots of growing and maturing to do, but he isn't exactly the little puppy he was just 1 year ago when he came to the US.

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 13 Months and Azaan, 2-1/2 years

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 13 Months

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 13 Months

:Power's Legendary Azaan (front) and Quo Vadis Barracuda (back)

Belle's New Home

2010-09-10T21:19:00.001-07:00

In an earlier post, I had some information about a possible Boerboel mix that needed adopted urgently as she was nearing the end of her days at a shelter. Belle had some issues, including dominance with other dogs and dog aggression. I am happy to report that Belle is doing wonderfully in her new home, living like a Queen. I am sure she thinks she died and went to heaven. In a way, she did. Belle may be the "Devil in Disguise", but Julie of Mostly Mastiffs Menagerie is a saint!

Enjoy the photo show:

Belle, the Devil in Disguise

Working Dog Seminar

2010-07-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

I took both dogs to a Working Dog Seminar in mid-July. Here are some photos from the 3-day weekend. We had a good time, and we learned a lot. There are tons of opinions when it comes to training working dogs, so listen, learn, and form your own opinions. Dog training isn't always black and white.

Azaan, An Athletic Girl for Her Size

2010-07-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Before I bought my first Boerboel, I read that they were the most athletic of the mastiff breeds. I'm not convinced of that broad statement, but I do know that the two that I have are very athletic. The Cane Corso is also a very athletic mastiff breed (or should be). Here are some photos of my girl, Azaan, as she does her thing on a daily basis. She loves to run and jump, and run and jump. I have never seen a dog, of any breed, that can outduel her in the stretch.

Sit Means Sit

2010-07-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

There is a new dog training franchise called Sit Means Sit. Do you think Azaan could get a job as a dog trainer? Here she is telling the big guy to sit.

Imitation of Linda Blair in the Exorcist

2010-07-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

I think Jaf was trying to do his imitation of Linda Blair in the Exorcist. What do you think?

"All Warfare is Based on Deception", Sun Tzu

2010-07-16T12:48:00.001-07:00

Jaf decided to use a few tactics that he learned from reading the book by Sun Tzu, "The Art of War". This in one smart dog! Thankfully, Azaan bounced right back up and kept going.

"Move swiftly when your enemy does not expect you."

Adoptable Belle and Jay

2010-07-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

These two pups only have a short time at the current shelter, as the shelter is full. Originally we thought Belle was a Boerboel, but now we are not so sure. What we do know is that the person who evaluated her (an owner of Boerboels, Dogos and other strong, guardian breeds), is that Belle has a strong personality but is very sweet. Both dogs are rowdy and playful. If you can open your heart up for a nice adult dog, please get in touch with the Taylor County Humane Society in Grafton, WV.

For a link to their photo show, visit http://www.photoshow.com/watch/RW3di2iJ

Mamma Lucia's in Wexford

2010-06-30T20:51:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I took both dogs for some training at the Village of Pine, one of the local shopping plazas. I took out each dog one at a time for some heeling sessions and obedience work. To be honest, I haven't been working them every day as I should. I decided to take Jaf out onto the overlook behind Mamma Lucia's Pizzeria e Trattoria. We had to walk by the plate glass windows where the pizza chefs were throwing pizzas. When we got to the overlook high over Perry Highway, the pizza guys stopped throwing pizzas to come out and take a closer look at Jaf. I think we made their day a little more fun! Jaf seemed to enjoy watching the cars zooming along below him from atop the overlook.

Clash of the Titans

2010-06-30T20:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it amazes me how hard these two play. I get worried at times that they are going to end up with broken bones, but somehow after these hard play sessions they just get up and trot off sound. I am keeping my fingers crossed it stays this way!

The photo below shows Jaf as he cuts across the lawn with a quick change of direction. His nimbleness and flexibility are remarkable considering his size. I think he likes to show his breeder Mom, Jenny of Quo Vadis Boerboels, how strong his bones and ligaments are!

Jaf thinks he is cool as he propels himself onto Azaan's back. Ouch!

G-Force

2010-06-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

Jaf is still 11 months old in these photos, but soon he will be celebrating his first birthday! I must admit it has been a whirlwind over the past 9 months since I got him. You may recall from an earlier post that I picked him up at Dulles Airport in September 2009 when he was 9 weeks old. I couldn't be more pleased with my boy.

As you can see, Jaf loves to sprint around the pasture with his BFF, Azaan.

Boerboels Play Rough

2010-06-21T23:21:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a quiet, couch potato dog, don't get a Boerboel! These guys play rough, they have endless energy, and they need a constructive outlet for that energy. Both dogs are in training, and this helps to keep them mentally and physically fit. Even with the training, they require a lot of mental stimulation and physical exercise. My dogs romp and play in one of the horse pastures on a daily basis, and we also hike in the woods to let out steam. Be realistic about the amount of time you have to spend with a dog before you buy a Boerboel.

I call this photo "Sliding Stop". Jaf is 11 months old, and a big dude. He can turn and stop on a dime, especially considering his size.
Jaf likes to run and zoom around, and then Azaan tries to tackle him. He loves it! It's a good thing, because she can get rough. Not too many dogs enjoy playing with her. I can't imagine why! Here she gives Jaf a nip on the shoulder as he zooms by.

I'm not sure who is getting the best of who in this photo. Jaf can tackle like an NFL linebacker. It is amazing he hasn't hurt his shoulder when he does this. Ouch!

The Red Dog and the Brindle

2010-06-21T23:07:00.000-07:00

These dogs grow up fast. It seems like yesterday that I was picking Jaf up from Dulles International Airport. He is now 11 months old, and soon he will celebrate his 1 year birthday.

Azaan and Jaf enjoy each other's company. Azaan, the brindle, is the older "sister", and she tries to give Jaf some guidance. She has been a good mentor. Jaf is completely trustworthy around the house. I can leave both dogs home alone without any problems. They have a dog door to a fenced-in backyard if they have to go out. I work at home, so I do not leave them home alone very often. But it is nice not to have to worry about them when I do leave the house. Most importantly, when I come home it is nice to know that they are the only things in there! Intruders don't want to mess with these two!

Jaf's Rabbit Catching Style

2010-06-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

Jaf caught his first rabbit a few days ago. He also caught a mole, but he didn't seem to know what to do with the mole once he had it. As soon as he caught the rabbit, he flaunted it in front of Azaan (silly boy). She quickly stole it from him and ran off! I am not sure what they did with it. It was still alive when she took off with it.

Wow, can this boy stretch out at the run! If he got any lower to the ground he would get brush burns on his belly. Jaf has some amazing short bursts of speed, especially considering his size.

I am in the process of having the fields cut, so the critters have been hiding in the higher grass. Jaf spots something, probably a mole, and jumps in for the attack.

Jaf, Growing Up!

2010-06-06T20:38:00.000-07:00

Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) turned 11 months old. He will be 1 year old at the end of June. He is a big boy for his age, and he has an attitude that doesn't quit. I have not had his health tests done yet, but that will be next on the agenda this Summer. My beautiful boy isn't showing any signs of health issues, as he likes to jump, cut and run through the woods with his best friend, Azaan.

Azaan and Jaf - Having Fun!

2010-06-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Jaf is 10 months old in these photos taken at the beginning of May 2010. It is amazing how quickly these dogs grow. My little puppy has been replaced by a big brute of a dog. He still has lots of growing to do, so I'm not sure what to expect over the next 6 - 12 months! Azaan, the Irish-marked brindle female, is 2-1/2 years old. She is about 27 inches tall and weighs about 132 pounds (60 kg). Jaf is just a bit bigger than Azaan at 10 months old. I am trying to keep him as lean as possible, since many ortho problems in pups are caused by over-feeding and excessive weight gain.

Azaan likes Jaf a lot, and puts up with a lot of abuse from him. Luckily, Azaan is a very playful dog, so she really enjoys playing with him. They are best friends, and can eat out of the same bowl. I don't feed them together, but if I'm not looking Jaf will sometimes slip out of his room when eating and join Azaan as she is eating out of her bowl. She lets him! But she draws the line at some other "tricks" he tries.

Azaan Earned her AKC Rally Advanced Title on May 5 2010

2010-06-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

Azaan earned her AKC Rally Advanced title on May 5, 2010. In her first two legs, she finished in 2nd place, and in her 3rd and last leg she finished in 4th place. She wasn't showing her best performance during her last competition, but she did well enough to earn 4th place. Boerboels can be independent and stubborn, so make sure that if you decide to train and compete one that you have a sense of humor! On Azaan's last leg, I think she decided she would try to search out stuffed animals in the ring. Needless to say, for about 30 seconds she wasn't paying attention to her handler! The judge really liked her as she was also a rare breeds judge, so we got lucky!

This photo shows Azaan with her 4th place ribbon from her 3rd and final leg, and her Title ribbon. If you look closely at the expression on her face, she is obliging me while I take this picture. She wants to get out and play with the stuffed animal. When she is happy, she will prick her ears forward.

Azaan's Weekend Competing in AKC Rally Advanced

2010-05-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

Azaan earned two 2nd place finishes at her AKC Rally Advanced competion this past weekend. She needs one more qualifying score to earn her title. In order to earn a title, a dog must earn qualifying scores at 3 events under 2 different judges. Azaan already has her AKC Rally Novice title.

AKC Rally Advanced is performed off leash, and the handler cannot touch their dog when they are in the ring. Azaan does pretty well, but not always! One of the stations is a figure 8 through some distractions. The distractions could be food, or a stuffed animal. If there is a stuffed animal in the ring, Azaan will rush over to play with it. Not good! I use toys as training aids when training, and Azaan loves to play. She is much more play and toy motivated than food motivated.

I hope to be able to get Azaan's Schutzhund BH. In the BH routine, the dog must heel off leash in a figure 8 around people. Azaan is much less distracted by people than toys.

Quo Vadis Barracuda, 9 months

2010-04-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 9 months old.

Who's on Top?

2010-04-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

Jaf thinks he is tough, and then Azaan flattens him. All in good fun, of course! Way to go, girl!

Jaf survives the ordeal, with his male ego intact!

2010-04-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Jaf turned 9 months old in this photo taken on March 28, 2010. Jaf takes a break and enjoys our unusually warm weather for the end of March.

Oh Dear, Lots of Deer!

2010-04-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

Jaf and Azaan in the Little Sewickley Creek

2010-04-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Jaf, 8 months, and Azaan, 2 years, enjoy the clear, cold water of the Little Sewickley Creek, Bell Acres, Pennsylvania.

A Beautiful Redhead

2010-04-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

Quo Vadis Barracuda (Jaf), 8 months old in this photo taken on March 20, 2010, bred by Jenny Wells of Quo Vadis Boerboels, http://quo-vadis-boerboel.co.za/.

Jaf the Wild Man

2010-04-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

Jaf, the Wild Man, strikes again. Thankfully Azaan is a rough and tough girl herself, so she doesn't mind Jaf's wild and crazy antics. I don't know how she puts up with him! Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) is 8 months old in these photos taken on March 20, 2010. Azaan (Power's Legendary Azaan) is 2 years old.

It's Spring!!

2010-04-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

It's official. It's Spring! The dogs are happy that I am spending more time with them outside. Can you tell they want me to play with them? The sad looks on their faces with their toys tells the story. We went to the creek, and Jaf is getting really comfortable in the water. He is 8 months old in these photos taken on March 20, 2010.

Boerboels at the Shooting Range

2010-03-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

I took the dogs to the shooting range today. Azaan was there last year, and I know she is okay with loud noises, including gunfire, thunderstorms and fireworks. This was Jaf's first trip to the shooting range, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I think he did great! I was very happy that he wasn't nervous or shy around the gunfire. We walked right down where the action was, and Jaf took it all in stride. Jaf experienced his first thunderstorm last weekend when we were in Southern Pines, North Carolina, and he slept through it. Both dogs are environmentally stable, and both have a good temperament.

This shooting range is part of the State Game Lands that is a few miles from where I live. It was a beautiful 70 degree day in Southwestern Pennsylvania. We don't get many warm days in March, so everyone is out enjoying the weather! One of the shooters walked over to talk to us and to inquire about the dogs. He has a female Cane Corso that he rescued as a puppy.

Please excuse the quality of this video. I was trying to hold the dogs in one hand and shoot the video with the other hand. Both dogs were wearing a flat collar. It isn't easy to shoot a video with one hand while holding over 250+ pounds of dogs with the other!

My Tracks - Motorola Droid

2010-03-17T22:52:00.000-07:00

Our snow has finally melted in Southwestern Pennsylvania and we have been having warm, sunny weather! One of the things I like to do is head to the woods with the dogs. They love it, and I must admit that I enjoy it too. It is good exercise for all of us.

I recently purchased a Motorola Droid to replace the Treo that I accidentally ran over with the van. I downloaded a free program called "My Tracks", and I used it for the first time today. What a cool little tool!

My Tracks is a program that records your GPS tracks and shows live statistics such as time, speed, distance and elevation while you are hiking, cycling, running or any other outdoor activity. Some people I know have used it while foxhunting, and others use it while riding their motorcycle or quad. I took it into the woods, and I was surprised that it picked up my GPS location within about 30 seconds and never lost track of me. It gives you the option to upload the "track" to the internet to share with friends or to keep the history on Google Maps. You can also keep the track record stored on your phone. You can name the track, what you were doing (hiking, walking, running, cycling, horseback riding, etc.), add a description, etc.

I got lost in this section of the woods several years ago with one of my Bandogs. With this tool, I was able to make sure that I was headed in the right direction when I turned around to head back. (It is very easy to get lost in the woods.) I got off course for a short distance, and noticed that I was going in the wrong direction from where I needed to go. I turned around, and then my track started to head towards the track I made when I wallked in.

The statistics told me how far I walked, how fast, the elevations and the elevation gain. Of course, the dogs went further and faster than I did since they run circles around me! It still gave me a good idea of how far we went so that I can track progress.

In case anyone is wondering, I walked about 2 miles today with an elevation gain of 641 feet. My maximum speed was 4.72 mph. This was our first walk in several months because of the heavy snowfall in February, so I wanted to make sure that we didn't go too far. I am considering buying a backpack for one of the dogs so that I can track the miles and speed they get doing the same track. I will just need to make sure that the backpack is waterproof!

A Frigid Swim

2010-03-17T22:38:00.000-07:00

I was on my way back from a trip from Pennsylvania to Rockingham, NC to a race that my brother was participating in when I stopped at Jefferson National Forest in Virginia to let the dogs out for a potty break in the mountains. Azaan loves water, but wasn't happy just to wade in it. The water was freezing! There was still some snow on the ground that had not melted, and trust me that the water was icy. Brrrrr. One crazy dog.

We logged 1,014 miles in a period of 3 days (Friday through Sunday). It was about an 8-1/2 hour trip one-way. The Jefferson National Forest in Virginia is about 5 miles north of Wytheville, Virginia. It is about half-way on our trip from Pennsylvania to North Carolina, and it is a good stop for the dogs to get some exercise and stretch their legs.

Well-Muscled Boerboel Puppy

2010-03-17T22:09:00.000-07:00

The history of the original Boerboel Farm Dog was that these dogs were used for utilitarian farm purposes -- protection against man and beast, herding and moving of livestock, etc. There is some concern that too many breeders are breeding for the marketing dollar -- what the public wants. Typically the buying public is looking for the largest dog they can find. No one knows why, other than the myth that a larger dog is more formidable, and therefore better. The problem is that if a breeder breeds for one quality -- size as an example, it will be to the detriment of the other qualities that make a Boerboel a Boerboel.

The Boerboel is supposedly the most athletic of the Mastiff breeds. This is true, to an extent. If current breeders continue to breed for "type" and don't sacrifice the original qualities of the Boerboel, then the Boerboel will continue to be a very athetic dog. If breeders start trying to follow the alimighy buck just to sell more puppies, then the Boerboel could be in trouble. We all know that the English Mastiff is pretty much an overgrown behemoth that has trouble getting out of its own way. My motto is that if you want a HUGE dog, get an English Mastiff, and be done with it! I like Mastiffs, don't get me wrong. I think they make great pets, they are reliable and they are great in a family lifestyle. I love my Boerboels, and I hope that breeders continue to breed for the traits that make a Boerboel a Boerboel.

These photos show Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) from Quo Vadis Boerboels in South Africa, on his 8-month birthday. He is one well muscled 8-month-old puppy!

Boerboel Puppy - 1 Day Shy of 8 Months Old

2010-03-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) is just 1 day shy of 8-months old in these photos. He is such a fun boy to have around, although he can be a handful. He is very active -- definitely not a couch potato! I take the dogs out several times per day for exercise. These photos were taken on February 27, 2010. I am a little bit late in posting them to this blog.

Boerboels Playing in the Snow

2010-03-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken on February 25th. We have had the 3rd snowiest month in history in this area. The dogs don't seem to mind it, and enjoy playing in it. Jaf is not quite 8 months old in these photos.

Azaan with her coffee can toy. Azaan is 27 months old in these photos.

Jaf tries to stalk Azaan. There is a crusty layer of snow underneath, and then fresh snowfall on top. It makes it tricky to walk on. I can't wait for Spring!

Can you believe the size of this boy? Azaan is a fairly big girl, and Jaf is nearly her size, and he is not quite 8 months old. The breeder wasn't breeding for size either. Jaf's Mom, Mizpah Minnie, is a petite but athletic Boerboel.

Live Webcam of Boerboel Puppies

2010-03-15T20:01:00.001-07:00

In case you are bored, here is a live webcam of a litter of Boerboel puppies...

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/boerboel-south-african-mastiff-puppies

These are not my puppies! I just liked the webcam.

Boerboel Fun

2010-02-14T21:08:00.000-08:00

Jaf just turned 7 months old in these photos. He really is turning into quite the young man! Back in September, he arrived here on a plane from South Africa as a little tyke. It must hurt to grow that fast. Luckily, Azaan is still athletic enough and has enough confidence that she can handle his antics. They love to play together. I cannot wait until Spring so that I can get them both back into training. Playing with each other is fine, but training and work is a much better way to burn energy in my opinion.

I was planning to go to Florida in January and February, but my plans got foiled when one of my horses came up lame. Hopefully I will be able to start formal training with the dogs again in mid-March.

Jaf tries his best to stand up to Azaan. Azaan is my 26-month-old brindle bitch from Power's Legendary Boerboels located in New Jersey. Jaf, 7 months, hails from Quo Vadis Boerboels located in the Kwa Zulu Natal region of South Africa. Both dogs are confident and environmentally stable.

Jaf plays with an old backpack in the snow. What fun!

I love the way the snow is blowing out of Jaf's mouth in this picture.

Jaf practices his tackles.

Jaf thinks he is a cutting horse. Either that, or he can't figure out which way to go. Either way, he can cut some moves.

Nothing like stretching the legs in a run!

A sweet little neck bite. Jaf and Azaan really know how to have fun!

Jaf shows off his ripped physique.

Boerboels Play in Really Deep Snow!!

2010-02-14T20:35:00.001-08:00

We have had a record-setting snowfall for February in Western Pennsylvania. According to the National Weather Service, there has not been this much snow since the late 1800's. Our friends to the South in the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC area have had over 3 feet of snow. We have about 2 feet, but we are expecting another 4 to 6 inches tomorrow.

The only redeeming thing about the snow is that the dogs seem to enjoy it. These pictures show Azaan, 26 months, and Jaffa, 7 months, romping and having fun in the white stuff.

Azaan is the brindle female, 26 months, and she won the plastic coffee can from Jaffa, 7 months.

Jaf, 7 months, figured he might be able to block Azaan from passing, and then get the coffee can for himself. Nice try!

Jaf likes to dig his nose in the snow, and usually gets covered in it. I think he looks really cute with snow all over his face! Such a cute boy!

Jaf beats Azaan to the coffee can. Woo Hoo!

Bottoms up!

I'll get it!

The girl reigns supreme!

Jaf ponders his options for his next move.

Follow the old girl -- she can blaze the trail!

Cold Weather, Again...

2010-01-27T18:25:00.000-08:00

We had some nice weather for about 2 weeks, and now it is getting cold again. It snowed a little bit yesterday. Winter is a particularly hard time to get the dogs the exercise that they need -- mostly because I don't like to go out in it unless I have to! I take care of the horses and the dogs get to go with me to the barn several times per day, but other than that I like to stay inside where it is warm.

I took the dogs out today, and they had a lot of pent-up energy. They enjoy their playtime!

Agility Training for Boerboels

2010-01-20T22:08:00.001-08:00

I started training Azaan in Agility about 9 months ago. I never intended to compete her in Agility, but who knows? I never thought I would train her beyond the Beginners Agility course, and now we are in Handlers classes. Azaan has fun with it, and seems to enjoy it.

The main reason I wanted to start her in Agility was to give her additional time to mature, while teaching focus, off leash work, send-aways and advanced commands. All of the trainers that we have worked with have told me that Azaan is the most athletic large dog they have ever seen. Most trainers do not recommend Agility for dogs over 100 pounds -- until they saw Azaan!

During Fall, Winter and Spring, Agility classes are held in an indoor soccer arena. There are lots of distractions -- about 8 - 10 other dogs, and about 12 - 14 people are in the room, along with lots of soccer balls! Often children will come up to the second floor to watch the training sessions. On the first floor of the soccer arena are lots of people playing soccer -- so there is a lot of noise as soccer balls are hitting the walls. It is a noisy environment, but the artificial surface is soft and forgiving on the dogs feet and legs. In the Summer, we train outside.

The following photo shows Azaan on the Table, focused on my eyes (I am out of the picture, but I am standing there). In Beginner's Agility, all dogs are worked on leash. When you get into the more advanced classes, work is performed off leash.

Bear with some of these photos, as they are a little bit fuzzy. We had very low lighting conditions in the arena. I should have turned the flash on my camera, but I thought the lighting was sufficient. Live and learn! You can see a little bit of my arm as Azaan goes over the oxer jump.

I included the following photo (even though it is blurry) because it shows Azaan's enthusiasm as she exits the Agility Chute.

Azaan headed towards a jump. Notice my hand in the far left of the photo.

I don't always jump Azaan at full height, mostly to save wear and tear on her legs. Most of Agility work is not about the obstacles, but more about focus and control.

We are taking a break from Aglity for about 2 months. Butler Dog Training Association, where I train, had a 6-week session that started on January 18th. I was planning to go to Florida for a few weeks, so I did not sign up for the class. We will start training again in early March.

Fun in the Snow -- Spunky Boerboel Puppy

2010-01-18T01:26:00.001-08:00

Jaf (6 months) and Azaan (26 months) love playing together. I took them into the field, and left them play with the lunge whip. Do you get the impression that Boerboels have a lot of energy? Mine do! These are not lazy couch-potato Mastiffs!

A Serious Little Monster

2010-01-18T01:05:00.000-08:00

Jaf is one very serious boy at 6 months old.

Then he turns into a monster! I am glad Azaan is the one to take most of his antics. She can handle it!

Mr. Stud Muffin Marks His Territory

2010-01-18T00:54:00.000-08:00

Jaf started lifting his leg to pee when he was about 4-1/2 months old. I have owned many male puppies, but none of them ever started to lift their leg this young. Mr. Stud Muffin thinks he is cool. He sort of reminds me of the "John Wayne" of dogs -- big and tough. I wouldn't be surprised if he starts smoking Marlboros and drinking bourbon soon (only joking)!

I love my little (not so little) 6-month-old puppy from Quo Vadis Boerboels!

Deer Rack of Bones

2010-01-18T00:48:00.000-08:00

Not all of the deer make it out of hunting season alive. This one that Azaan found looks like he has been dead for quite some time. Yum, yum!

Deer in Pennsylvania

2010-01-18T00:44:00.000-08:00

It is the end of deer hunting season, but we still have tons of deer running around! I love seeing them in the pastures.

Psycho Boerboel Romping in the Cold Water

2010-01-18T00:33:00.000-08:00

Azaan loves to run and play; in fact, she will run all day if you let her. Our weather was bitterly cold in Southwestern Pennsylvania for about 2 weeks, and it is now just starting to warm up. It has been above freezing for the last several days, so I decided to take the dog into the woods.

Azaan loves water. As soon as she sees it she likes to splash around and zoom in it. Jaf doesn't quite keep up with her, but he tries to get in on the game too. Azaan is 26 months old, and Jaf is 6 months.

If you listen closely, you will hear how fast the water is running in the little creek. It is so soothing to listen to!

Video -- Azaan and Jaf Play with Flirt Pole

2010-01-02T02:02:00.001-08:00

The dogs love to play with a flirt pole, but today they decided they did not need me to work the controls. I was too busy taking videos anyway! I attached Jaf's stuffed animal to the end of the pole. If you hear chirping, the little stuffed bird tweets when it gets pressure. I purchased the little stuffed bird for under $5 at Tractor Supply. Jaf just turned 6 months old, and Azaan is 25 months.

Video -- Azaan Plays with Drain Pipe

2010-01-02T01:56:00.000-08:00

Don't ask! Azaan just loves playing with her drain pipe. A chipmunk ran into it this Summer, and she pulled it out of the ground to get at the chipmunk. Now it is one of her favorite toys.

Video -- Azaan Plays with Egge in Snow

2010-01-02T01:54:00.000-08:00

I guess snow has its purpose, at least the dogs seem to enjoy it. Enjoy the video of Azaan playing with her toy egge in the snow.

Snowy Days and Puppy Fun

2009-12-31T12:01:00.000-08:00

We have not had much snow, but even a small amount is TOO much for me! The dogs seem to enjoy it though, and it is pretty. Jaf is just under 6 months old in these photos. My Quo Vadis Boerboel baby is growing up so fast, it is hard to believe that I was able to hold him in my arms just a few months ago. Azaan really enjoys chasing him and playing with him.

Jaf Kills the Frozen Teddy Bear

2009-12-24T23:01:00.000-08:00

The stuffed Teddy Bear got buried under the snow. When Jaf found it, he had a blast running around with it trying to shake it to death. Silly, playful boy!

Azaan and Jaf - First Snowfall

2009-12-24T22:33:00.001-08:00

Where did my puppy go? In early September Jaf arrived from Quo Vadis Boerboels in South Africa as a 9-week-old puppy. Just a little over 3 months later, and he doesn't look like a puppy anymore. This guy is just getting so big. He is very mature for a puppy, and he is bold and confident. These pictures were taken the afternoon of our first snowfall in Western Pennsylvania.

Azaan is a very active 24-month-old puppy too! This girl will play 24-hours a day if you let her. She has been enrolled in Agility classes for the last 9 months, and she is doing very well. I originally enrolled her in Agility classes just so that we could work on her obedience, send aways and focus. We had so much fun during our first course, that we continued to enroll in subsequent classes. Azaan is running full courses off leash now. The four trainers that I have worked with are amazed at her athleticism considering her size. They have stated she is the only truly athletic mastiff they have ever seen. That is a good testimonial!

First Day of Deer Season in Pennsylvania

2009-12-03T11:49:00.001-08:00

Monday was the first day of deer hunting season in Pennsylvania. I took this video of the deer playing in a field on Monday. They did not look too threatened by the first day of hunting season!

Azaan and Jaf Play in the Woods

2009-12-03T00:38:00.000-08:00

This video shows Azaan and Jaf playing in the woods. Jaf likes to jump on Azaan, and sometimes she gets him back! She is so agile and quick that sometimes I have trouble following her with the video camera. This video was taken on the side of a very steep hill with a creek at the bottom.

Boerboels Go Car Shopping

2009-12-01T02:33:00.000-08:00

I took the dogs to Sewickley for a little bit of training in the hubbub of town. I had to go to the Post Office, so taking the dogs for a little walk when I was down there seemed like a good idea. There is a Rolls Royce dealership in town, Ascot Imported Cars. In addition to Rollers, they sell Bentleys, Lotus and Lamborghini.

Since I was the only person handling the dogs, I had to put them both in a stay position while I stepped back to take a picture. Jaf is only starting to learn stay, and he has never had to do this off the training field (my kitchen, LOL!). I put Azaan into a down stay, and then asked Jaf to sit stay. Notice that his leash is laying on the ground next to his front feet while I stepped back. This photo was taken on the sidewalk in the small Village of Sewickley. There were people on the sidewalk and cars on the street. Jaf did an excellent job with his sit stay with real life distractions! I am very proud of him.

This photo below is a Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe. Nice car! I think I am going to put it on my Christmas wish list.

I also decided to try tieing Jaf to a park bench in town to see how he would react being left alone. The park benches are just off the sidewalk, and give people a little area to sit if they get tired when shopping. I tied Jaf to the bench, and then Azaan and I walked away. We did not walk very far -- I don't want anyone stealing my little boy! I wanted to "test" him to see if he would go ballistic, or stay composed. After I walked away, I asked him to sit from a distance. He sat immediately. As you can see, he does not appear to be stressed that we left him. Cool as a cuke! He only had to sit there for a minute or two, and then Azaan and I went back to him. I had liver in my pocket, so he got his reward. Yes! Good boy!

While we were in town, Jaf charmed a woman who was walking. He LOVES to meet people! Today, November 30th, was a really cold day. We have been having some nice weather for November, but it got blustery and cold today. Notice the lady's hair blowing in the wind. Brrrr. I can't wait until Spring!

Boerboel Puppy Alert

2009-11-28T01:35:00.000-08:00

Jaf alerted to some sounds that he could hear off in the distance when we were out in the pasture one night. We live in Pennsylvania where there are rolling hills, so when it starts to get dark and still the sound can carry across the hillsides. Jaf heard something off in the distance, and alerted. He gives a few soft short "woofs" and then one "big boy bark". Jaf is 4-1/2 months old in this video. He and Azaan were searching in the gopher holes, and when he turns around you will see the mud on his nose!

Boerboel Workout

2009-11-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

Azaan decided she would try her hand at trying to pull out an old drainage pipe that was partially buried in the ground. The drainage pipe was used for water run-off around the barn.

Jaf, 4-1/2 months old

2009-11-28T00:23:00.000-08:00

I continue to work with Jaf on his training. On Wednesday (the day before Thanksgiving), I had to go to the village of Sewickley to pick a package up from the Post Office. I decided to take the dogs with me, and give them a quick 30-minute training session in town. Walking two Boerboels is not easy, especially when one is only 4-1/2 months old and doesn't really know how to heel very well. We are working on that though! Jaf did really well in town. We walked across an empty garbage bag that was blowing on the sidewalk, passed kids riding bicycles on the sidewalk, strollers, people, traffic and cars, and lots of dogs! Jaf did really well and was not distracted by the commotion. He is bold and confident, and takes everything in stride.

When we got home, we went into the pasture to see if we could find any critters to chase. I took this photo of Jaf in the pasture. For additional information on Jaf's breeder, visit the Quo Vadis Boerboels website.

I posted this picture in an online forum dedicated to Boerboels, and John Blackwell had some nice compliments on my puppy. John Blackwell is well renowned in the mollosser dog world. He made a name for himself as a breeder of American Bulldogs and a book that he wrote in 1997 called "American Bulldogs". Since that time, he switched from breeding American Bulldogs to breeding Boerboels. He is now the President of the US Boerboel Association, USBA, a registry of Boerboels in the United States, and recently retired from breeding. I was flattered with John's compliment, especially coming from someone as well respected as John Blackwell. But of course we all know that Jaf is one magnificent Boerboel puppy!

Azaan's Play Date with the Great Dane

2009-11-24T01:16:00.001-08:00

These photos were taken in March 2009 when Azaan had a play date with a Great Dane named Achilles. She is a little over one year old in these pictures. Achilles was a pretty chill 3-year-old male Dane. Azaan really enjoyed playing with him since he could put up with her antics. Jaf can too, but these photos were taken before Jaf was born!

Boerboels often play rowdy and rough, so be prepared for lots of action if you have a play date with a Boerboel and another large dog. Azaan was well socialized since she was a puppy, and she gets along with most dogs.

A Video of Jaf and Azaan in the Woods

2009-11-24T01:04:00.000-08:00

Another Beautiful Sunday with the Dogs!

2009-11-24T00:51:00.000-08:00

Jaf is growing so fast it is hard to believe. I took Azaan and Jaf to the pet store on Friday, and we were there a week ago. Jaf behaved much better this week. It wasn't that he was bad last week, he was just full of himself and needs to learn some manners when on a leash. He loves to meet people. When he seems a new person, or especially a kid, he goes bonkers and wants to meet them so bad. I forget sometimes that he is only 4 months old, but he is big enough to knock people down. He is not fat, just a solid guy.

It's A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

2009-11-18T23:37:00.000-08:00

Ever hear of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood?

"It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, the neighborhood. Won't you be mine, won't you be mine, won't you be my neighbor?"

I digress. Back to reality, it was another beautiful Fall day in Pennsylvania. After next week, I won't be able to take the dogs into the woods because of hunting season. The Monday after Thanksgiving is the first day of buck (white tail) hunting season in Pennsylvania. I decided to take the opportunity to enjoy the leaves.

Jaf started the day by trying to taunt Azaan into play. What a little tease! Here he is barking and growling at her to see if he can get her to chase him.

It worked. I am so happy that the two of them get along well. When I took the two of them to the vet for Jaf's check-up, the vet was surprised that Azaan puts up with his antics. She can dish it out too. The caption for the following photo is: "Who me? I am a perfect little baby Boerboel and I am innocent of any wrong-doings."

I know that it is important not to let young puppies stress their bones by jumping, climbing up stairs, etc. Jaf's breeder is probably going to have a coronary, but I try my best to keep this guy grounded on all four feet. Baby Jaf has different ideas though, and sometimes he does things so quick that I can't stop him. He saw the challenging tree on the hill, and thought it might be fun to climb. Jaf's real Mom, Mizpah Minnie, likes to climb trees. Jaf wants to let his Mom know that he is trying to follow in her footsteps. He doesn't back down from a challenge!

"Okay. I'm listening. Now what did I do wrong?"

My Life is Going to the Birds!

2009-11-16T23:40:00.000-08:00

I was trying to get some work done in the house when I heard a melodic "toot toot" sound outside. I could hear the dogs were onto something. Knowing that the squirrels make a chattering noise, this was quite different. I went outside, and found a large bird on the roof of my van! I am assuming this is a turkey, but I don't really know. They belong to my neighbor. This is just what I needed on a busy day!

If you look closely at this picture, you will see no less than 8 piles of turkey poo on the roof of my van. Grrrr. He seemed so happy and friendly though, and I love my neighbors. I figured that a little bit of turkey doo-doo wasn't the end of the world.

Okay, so I how do I get him off the top of my van? Two of his buddies were hanging out under the pine trees, so there was a total of three. I was pretty sure that I could get Azaan to scare him down and herd him on home without hurting him. I was right.

I don't think the van suffered too many toenail scratches as she jumped up at the roof of the van to scare him down. As soon as he flew off the van he took off after his buddies under the trees. Then the chase was on. When Mr. Van Rider took off in the wrong direction, Azaan swung wide and brought him back to going the right direction. She chased them a few hundred feet towards the direction of their home. At this point, I think they were scared shitless (no pun intended) so they were running for dear life. After I was certain they were committed to go the whole way home, I recalled Azaan and she came right back. What a good girl!

No dead ducks at this house!!

Inexpensive, Healthy Training Treats for Dogs

2009-11-15T12:40:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I used to buy expensive soft training rewards for my dogs. I was always concerned about them because of the preservatives and chemicals that are listed in the label, but I did not feel I had much of a choice. If any of you follow the top trainers in the nation, you may have heard of Michael Ellis. Michael runs a training school in California for dog trainers called The Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers. He is considered one of the top motivational trainers in the country. Here is a link to his website:

http://michaelellisschool.com/

The foundation of Michael's dog training system lies in marker training (also known as clicker training). I recently purchased his first video called "The Power of Training Dogs with Food." I love the DVD, and I have learned a lot by watching it. The video can be purchased at Leerburg.com, http://leerburg.com/220.htm.

According to Michael, training treats should be large enough that the dog sees them as a reward, and they should be soft and not too chewy. You do not want a treat that your dog cannot eat within a second or two, otherwise the training is disrupted.

I like to use liver from the grocery store. You can either buy beef liver or chicken livers. Both work well. I cook it in the microwave oven for about 5 minutes on a plate. I feed my dogs raw, but I do not want to work with raw bloody liver in my pocket when I am training! Yuk! Put the liver on a plate, and then nuke it for about 5 minutes. Once it is cooked through, cut it up into small treats. The longer you cook the liver, the easier it will be to handle. I have also tried cooking the liver in the oven on a cookie sheet. This will dry it out, but it takes more time. I don't have a lot of time to waste in my daily life, so the microwave method is working out well. I cook only as much as I think I will need for that particular training session. All of my training sessions are very short, so a handful of liver is plenty. One word of caution -- chicken livers seem to contain more water than beef liver. If you plan to cook your chicken livers in the microwave, make sure you cover them with saran wrap, otherwise they will explode all over your microwave and make a mess. I learned the hard way!

This training reward is inexpensive, easy to make, and very healthy for your dog! There are no chemicals or preservatives added. If you look at the label on most commercial pet treats, they are full of chemicals -- and very expensive. Let's look at Bil Jac Liver Treats that are commonly sold in most commercial pet stores. A 4 ounce box is $2.49 at some of the discount pet shops, but $2.99 at Petco. At $2.49/ounce, that that equates to nearly $10 per pound for liver treats. In comparison, I buy liver in the grocery store for about $1.29 per pound. Bil Jac treats are nearly 8 times more expensive than homemade liver treats.

Let's check out the ingredients in Bil Jac Liver Treats:

Ingredients in Bil Jac: Chicken liver, chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn, glycerin, high fructose corn syrup, wheat flour, propylene glycol, phosphoric acid, salt, calcium propionate, and potassium sorbate and BHA and citric acid (preservatives), iron oxide.

I really don't like to feed my dogs corn, high fructose corn syrup or any of the other chemicals listed here. My homemade liver treats are just beef liver or chicken liver. Easy, quick, inexpensive and healthy! Save yourself some money while doing the best thing for the health of your dog. Try it!