Maxie Paxie's Blog

Road Trip!

2011-11-12T17:41:00.001-06:00

Sophie plays defense.

2011-10-08T21:37:00.001-05:00

Today, we took a road trip and saw our dad.

2011-10-08T21:27:00.001-05:00

My sister and me.

2011-09-29T20:37:00.002-05:00

2011-09-28T23:57:00.001-05:00

Ball.

2011-09-20T23:19:00.001-05:00

Today, I played a lot of ball.

I played my first game early in the morning.

I played another game with Sophie.

I played in the evening, then I took some time to relax.

We went for a walk today.

2011-09-19T19:04:00.000-05:00

Puppy Latte

2011-09-18T22:34:00.001-05:00

I watched a lot of football today.

2011-09-17T20:44:00.001-05:00

Goodnight.

2011-09-16T20:58:00.001-05:00

Sophie stole my ball.

2011-09-15T20:26:00.001-05:00

Sometimes, my mom takes my photograph.

2011-09-14T21:52:00.002-05:00

Almost Autumn.

2011-09-13T21:57:00.001-05:00

I can't wait for Autumn! It's a good season for watching football. And playing ball.

This is how I cool off after a ball game.

2011-09-12T20:53:00.001-05:00

My dad says this about me sometimes...

2010-05-30T17:33:00.000-05:00

(image courtesy of The New Yorker)

Monday was a good day.

2009-11-18T19:58:00.000-06:00

I went for a ride,

stopped for a latte,

and made it home to watch the big game!

Yesterday...

2009-10-31T21:57:00.002-05:00

...was a good day to frolic.

Max o' Lantern

2009-10-31T21:55:00.000-05:00

Hallowe'en

2009-10-31T21:51:00.001-05:00

Waiting for Trick-or-Treaters is exciting...

...but it's also exhausting.

Hope y'all had a good Hallowe'en.

Maxie Paxie

Hello, friends!

2009-10-14T22:36:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all.

It has been way too long since I blogged. There have been many big adventures in my life over the past few months. Some have been good, and some have been a little sketchy. I promise to tell y'all about them all soon.

My new friend Elle Woods gave me a shoutout on her mom's blog this week. She's pretty adorable; she's a Great Dane. I would love to go visit her. Mom says Chicago is far away, though.

I'll talk to you soon.

Max

Swimming

2009-07-10T21:13:00.000-05:00

I went to visit my grandparents this week. My Aunt Cara has a swimming pool, and I decided to dive in! It was really fun to go swimming on a hot day. I want to try it again soon!

Max

Happy Birthday, Cousin E!

2009-06-08T19:08:00.000-05:00

His favorite toys...

2009-06-02T22:34:00.000-05:00

No matter how many toys I buy him, he loves soda boxes....

I got my own frisbee!

2009-05-29T22:23:00.002-05:00

You know what...

2009-05-24T22:50:00.001-05:00

Frisbee, originally uploaded by heathercw.

...is the best toy ever? One you steal from your best friend Sasha.

Snuggle Bunny

2009-05-09T00:39:00.000-05:00

My mighty hunter and the stuffed bunny from his Easter basket:

Sleepy

2009-05-09T00:32:00.000-05:00

I am soooo tired tonight, y'all. Mom and I drove all the way to Kentucky today. We wanted to see my grandma and grandpa. It was really rainy and scary on the way, so I had to be extra-special vigilant. Then, I had to make sure that everything at Grandma and Grandpa's smelled right. I tried to convince them that it would be okay to give me some fried chicken and gravy, but Mama had other ideas. She's so sneaky about food.

Big sleepies for Max tonight. I'll let you know when I beat Mom to the gravy boat.

Marley Cake

2009-04-11T22:39:00.000-05:00

I found this at Kroger tonight; it was two cupcakes decorated like a little Shih Tzu.

So adorable! She looks just like Max's friend Marley!

Maxie and the Marley Movie

2009-04-03T00:26:00.001-05:00

My mama and daddy watched a movie about a puppy dog tonight. It was really confusing, because I could see the dog running around on Dad’s big TV, and I could hear him barking and crying. I kept looking for him, but he never came closer, and I couldn’t smell him. Finally, after I’d looked for him for a few minutes and realized he was just on TV,I snuggled up between my parents on the couch. It was a good thing I did, because the dog in the movie –who was a lab like me—got really sick at the end. It made my mom and dad really sad and they snuggled me a lot and reminded me how very much they loved me. Of course they love me; I’m Maxie! I do all the important things around here, like making sure people do things properly and keeping the bed warm, and making sure that they know where things are. Sometimes I even help my dad with his work projects or rewrite Mama’s articles – I’m an excellent editor and an even better lawyer! They sure would be lost without all my help.

That dog Marley, in the movie we watched, had a lot of important jobs, too. His mom and dad had a lot of kids for him to help with. I don’t have any brothers and sisters, but I have a whole bunch of cousins that need somebody to run around with them and lick them. I look after Mama and Daddy, too. I cuddle up on the quilts that my great-grandmother Nan makes for me – Mom says that it’s good for Nan to make quilts because she has arthritis and can’t get out of the house a lot so making quilts gives her something to do. I’m always really glad to help my Nan out. She’s a sweet lady. I love my grandparents, and my uncles, and a lot of Mom and Dad’s friends. Anyway, that movie made me think about how many people I love, and how much they need me to look after them.

Mama and Daddy said that Marley movie reminded them of me because he was a lab, just like me, and because he was kind of a frisky puppy, just like I was. They said that, just like Marley’s parents, they may say that I’m a bad dog sometimes, but that I’m a good boy and that they love me. I think it’s good to watch movies that teach you a lesson, like that you shouldn’t get mad at your dog when he chews things…

I hope all my friends and blog readers will take a few minutes to give a big, sloppy kiss to the people they love!

Maxie Paxie

Happy Birthday, Max!

2009-03-31T21:19:00.001-05:00

Two years ago today, a special little guy was born in Leitchfield, KY. A few months later, he stole our hearts.

It's been a challenge raising Max. His broad-spectrum allergies took over a year to identify, and have been a significant amount of work. I never thought I would find myself cleaning rotten-smelling gunk out of the dog's ears 2-3 times a day, or obsessing over his rashes or alopecia. His little snuggles make it all worthwhile. It breaks my heart to think what would have happened if he had gone to a family that didn't have the commitment or the resources to get to the root of his allergies and find a suitable course of dietary treatment. He would be deaf, at the very least. I can't think of the worst scenario...

The past couple of years have been rather stressful for R. and me. It has been so very wonderful to have the unconditional adoration that our silly little guy provides. It is such a great feeling to watch him prance around with his friends, play with his tennis ball, or just snuggle up between us. He has been such a blessing, even when he's infuriating!

Happy Birthday, Kiddo!
xo--
Mama

Sound like anyone you know??

2009-03-03T23:45:00.000-06:00

Courtesy of The New Yorker

xo--

Max's Mom

Today...

2008-10-27T21:16:00.000-05:00

Hey guys.

I woke up this morning all excited because I thought I was finally going to get to go to the office with Dad. I want to go to an office so very badly. I think it would be very cool; I bet I could make calls and have a glass of scotch, just like the dude on Mad Men.

Anyway, it turned out that I didn't get to go to my office. I went to the vet instead. My vet is a nice guy, but he's always giving me shots and asking the nurse to take my temperature. I am not down with the whole thermometer thing. Mom says I have to take another course of antibiotics and have my ears cleaned everyday, and I sure do dread it.

I wish I could have gone to the office instead. It would have saved me a lot of hassle. Anyway, I need some sleep. Being sick makes you sleepy.

Max

The People I Care About...

2008-10-21T14:47:00.001-05:00

My cousin L.'s grandpa had tests run this morning; we were afraid he would have to have surgery. I was really worried for L. -- she's a lot of fun to play with and I didn't want her to be sad. So, I'm really glad that her grandpa is ok.

I have a lot of cousins, y'all. My mom has a really big family, and she's always introducing me to people that she says are my cousins or aunts or something. Then there are a bunch of people, like my cousin E., whose parents are close friends with Mom and Dad. That means lots and lots of people who need Maxie Paxie to worry about them. Then there are my friends, like Gus or my girlfriend Lulu, who I want to be happy and healthy so that we can play together. Here is a picture of Lulu when she stayed with my uncles Christopher and Craig. Isn't she pretty? I was really worried about her while she stayed with my uncles, because their cats are bitchy little ewoks who weren't too happy to have a puppy dog come to visit. Apparently, they settled their differences over martinis....

Anyway, I have a lot of people to care for and love. Every night, Mama and I say our prayers for the people we love. We ask the Lord to take care of our friends and family, and we hope to see them all soon. We also ask the Lord to watch out for the puppies who don't have parents, or enough to eat, and hope that they all find good homes soon. It's a lot to worry about.

I'm lucky to have so many people to love. That means there's more people with whom I can play and snuggle.

Thank you for being one of the friends who reads my blog.

xo--

Maxie

Tagged! I'm It!

2008-10-16T09:38:00.000-05:00

My Auntie Lauren, who lives in Kentucky, tagged me to post a meme today. I'm very excited to tell y'all all about myself! The rules are that I need to tell you seven weird/odd/random/unique things about myself.

My doctor and my parents say that I am very allergic to meat proteins. I have to eat a special food that has processed the protein so that I won't get sick. I don't believe one word of this allergy talk. I think I should be able to eat anything I want, regardless of the fact that I get sick everytime Mama cooks beef in the house....
I LOVE to travel with my parents. I prefer nice hotels, not ones that smell bad.
I like to keep my routine in order; every morning, I wake up, do some yoga, help my dad get ready for work, eat a big breakfast, go for a walk, play for a bit, then go back to sleep.
At night, just before bed, I roll around on my back, then scratch at my ears to "fight the sleepies." When we get in bed, I like to make a big nest of covers and sleep between my parents.
I only know one cat, my Uncle Oliver.
I love to wear collars. I am happiest if I have two or three on at once. Right now, I am wearing a UK blue collar that has my tags on it, as well as a pink ribbon one; I'm a Wildcat fan, and think that breast cancer is bad. When I put on a new collar, I prance around the house and won't let anyone take it off me.
I love to watch TV with my dad, especially sports or shows that have animals. I would get in BIG trouble if I got close to Dad's big-screen TV. When a repair technician came out to replace a lamp in Dad's TV, I gave him the Stranger Danger bark so he would know that he's not allowed to touch the TV either.

I tag all of my Aunties and Uncles to comment this entry with the things that make your furry babies unique.

Maxie

Lots to say

2008-10-09T16:25:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody! It's been a stressful couple of weeks for me. I'm in need of some serious yoga and rest.

I'm sure y'all saw this on my mom's blog, but we said goodbye to my sister recently. Mom has been very, very sad and has needed extra special hugs and kisses from her Maxie. My sister was a really awesome gal. She put me in my place when I got on her nerves. She had a lot of spunk, and I respect that a lot.

We went to PetSmart on my sister's birthday last Thursday, as a way to remember how awesome she was, and to make a donation to help out other puppies and kitties who don't have loving homes. Mom says it's important to remember how lucky you are and to help those who need it. She also bought me some new friends. The football didn't last very long, but the sock monkey is an awesome friend.

I never know what's going to happen when we go to PetSmart. Sometimes it's really awesome, and we buy food and toys. Sometimes, I go there and they give me a bath, which is NOT awesome. Sometimes, I go there and the doctor gives me shots or takes my temperature in a way that does NOT make me happy. I wish it weren't so confusing.

I hope I get to go get a toy and make a donation at PetSmart soon. Maybe Mom will forget about the baths and thermometers....

Max

The Night Max Wore His Wolf Suit...

2008-09-21T13:04:00.000-05:00

I went to Louisville this week with my Mom and Dad. It was pretty cool; I love riding in the car, sitting on restaurant patios with Mom, visiting with my Kentucky family, and playing in the park. I had huge bowls of water wherever I went, and people stopped to tell me how awesome I was. I tried to be polite and humble, but I really like it when people are that nice to me!!!

I do not, however, like getting sick. I had an upset stomach all week, and had to go back to the doctor on Friday because I wasn't able to hold down any food all week. I still don't feel great and am so hungry, but I don't quite want to eat. It's pretty frustrating, y'all.

When we were in Louisville, a little boy asked me if I was named for the character "Max" in the story Where the Wild Things Are. I hadn't heard of that, because my parents usually want me to leave their books alone, but Mom said it was about a little boy who used his imagination to fight his fears. I think that is a pretty good idea. I mean, I get scared when I go to the vet, when my allergies are acting up, when Mom leaves me to go to her stupid meetings, or when I throw up like I did all last week. It's a bad feeling and I don't like it. I want to be a good, grown-up boy and behave, but I just want Mom and Dad to make it better. It would be so awesome if I could put on a cool wolf suit and kick my fears in the butt. I think I like this Max dude.

When I'm scared, I like to snuggle with my parents, and I like to go to my apartment where it's safe. How do y'all cope with bad days and fears?

Talk to you soon,

Max

Maxin' and Chillaxin', Part II

2008-09-09T10:38:00.000-05:00

You can tell it's a good sleepy-time when you cross your paws really tightly.

And if you squeeze your eyes really closely shut.

Maxin' and Chillaxin', Part I

2008-09-09T10:32:00.000-05:00

You know what's comfy? Dirty laundry.

"Pet Food Politics"

2008-09-06T22:18:00.001-05:00

This week's Economist has a great review of a recent book called Pet Food Politics by Marion Nestle, which does for pet food what Michael Pollan's brilliant work The Omnivore's Dilemma did for human food: it provides an analytic breakdown of what our four-legged friends are eating, where it comes from, and why so much of it is so very, very bad.

I plan to pick this book up ASAP; as you know, Max has had so much trouble with his diet, and I want to take a more thorough look at what we are feeding him. The work also delves into the scary dog food additives incident of 2007, of personal importance for us because one of the dogs in our family was impacted by a bad batch of that food.

In an age where our pets have the luxury of truly being one of the family -- with playdates, massages, daycares and, yes, their own blogs, they certainly deserve a more stringent regulations on what passes as food. I will let you know as soon as possible what this book has to say.

h

Happy, Healthy Maxie!!

2008-09-05T06:37:00.001-05:00

After a year of hit-or-miss allergy treatments, Max seems to be on the road to recovery, y'all!

A couple of weeks ago, we took the little guy to the vet for his annual vaccines. I haven't been thrilled with the veterinary care he's received so far, so I decided to try out our local Banfield. Since we travel so much, I wanted to have him in their national records network. I was expecting a normal vaccination and perhaps another round of treatments for his allergies. I was pleasantly surprised by a vet who took an aggressive route of preventative care (as opposed to the ameloriative treatments the last couple doctors have prescribed.) In lieu of another harsh round of steroids, Dr. C. placed him on antibiotics, a strict ear-cleaning regiment, therapeutic baths, and a hypoallergenic diet. The food is made from hydrolyzed chicken proteins, which his little system doesn't recognize as an allergen.

After two weeks of this treatment, Maxie is healthier than I've ever seen him! His ears are nearly free of nasty bacteria, his coat is thicker than I ever thought possible, and he doesn't have all the itching and hotspots that made him suffer so very much. He was healthy enough to have his vaccines on his follow-up visit, and I think we've made real strides toward a more healthy life for the little guy!

I think all of this focus on wellness has made Max consider his own shaman powers; I recently suffered a pretty bad cooking burn on my hand, and he's strongly committed to licking it back to health! ;)

Terrifying!!!

2008-09-01T11:26:00.000-05:00

I just received an email that linked to a website called The Chai Story. The eponymous Chai, an amazingly cute 10 year-old lab mix, lost his tongue due to a poorly manufactured toy, the "pimple ball with bell" (Item #20227-001, UPC Code 0 4566320227 9), produced by the Four Paws Company.

If your baby has a toy that looks like this, take it away immediately! You can learn more about the recalled products at Four Paws' website.

Maxie's Mom

A Special Request

2008-08-26T08:31:00.001-05:00

Distracted, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Hey guys--

This is Maxie. Just wanted to ask all of you to say a special prayer for my Uncle Oliver this week. He's the guy with the stripes in this photo.

Uncle Oliver has been in the hospital for several days; it looks like he's going to be okay, but I'm still pretty worried about him. He's kind of a sneaky guy. He acts like it's all cool for you to play with him or eat his delicious Cat Food, but then he'll sneak up and scratch you in the face.

I've learned a lot from that guy-- like the fact that you can't really trust anybody. Still, I hope he's okay. He keeps the holidays interesting.

Max

Friendships are Funny Things...

2008-07-24T18:23:00.001-05:00

Friendships are funny things.

Take my best friend Sascha and me. We were tight. We liked to hang out every day, run around and play ball. We liked to talk about things, and work out together; it was a great way to blow off steam.

A couple of weeks ago, Sascha and I had a falling out. We said some harsh things to one another, and it got out of hand quickly. Ever since then, things just haven't been the same. I mean, we'll say hello to each other, and sort of play in the same area, but we keep our distance now. I guess we don't have the same trust and respect for one another any more. It kind of sucks, but it's a decision we both made.

Still trying to figure it all out--

Maxie

Beale Street Maxie

2008-07-16T22:34:00.002-05:00

Beale Street, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Everyone smells like the same at 8 o'clock on a Sunday morning on Beale Street...

Playing Ball...

2008-07-16T22:30:00.001-05:00

FedEx Forum, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Max among the giant ball sculptures at FedEx Forum in Memphis.

A Question for You....

2008-07-16T08:09:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all.

It's A Question for You day on all my blogs. I love to hear my friends' thoughts on a variety of issues, and would just love to hear what you have to say...

My question for all the Friends of Max is about your traveling habits. As many of you know, Max has severe food and environmental allergies that prohibit a lot of "normal" dog behavior. As such, his dad and I are terrified to kennel him. This has resulted in Max's introduction to some of the finest (and not-so-fine) hotels the South and Midwest have to offer. How about you, my friends. How do your vacation plans impact your furry friends? Do you take your critters along? Do you prevail upon your friends and family for petsitting assistance? Do you use a kennel?

Max and I are looking forward to your answers. Drop a comment and let us know.

h

Sleepy Max

2008-07-08T09:30:00.002-05:00

I love the way he wraps his little paw around my arm...

Dining al fresco at Impellizzeri's

2008-07-05T20:13:00.001-05:00

Dining al fresco at Impellizzeri's, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Miss Anne Hathaway Makes Me Sad

2008-06-27T16:41:00.003-05:00

I was helping Mama read her "news" today, when we saw a story that made us both very sad. It seems that that Anne Hathaway lady has abandoned her Chocolate Maxidor Retriever because she broke up with her boyfriend. That's a really crappy thing to do. What if her doggie needs to go out to the bathroom or something? She needs her Mama. I don't like it if my Mama goes anywhere without me; I'm sure this little Esmerelda gal feels the same way.

I've watched some movies with that lady before; she seemed really nice in the one my mama liked so much about the cowboys, and in the one about the scary magazine lady. She wasn't very good in the one about Jane Austen, but that wasn't a very good movie to begin with. Anyway, she should take her dog out to pee. She probably needs to go really badly.

Maxie

I'm HUGE on the internet...

2008-06-20T21:40:00.002-05:00

Click here for a photo of Mama and me out and about at the Atomic Dog event at the Atomic Cafe in Lexington.

Maxie

X-Treme Mud Tennis-Golf

2008-06-14T21:38:00.002-05:00

Sleepy

2008-06-14T00:12:00.001-05:00

Sleepy, originally uploaded by heathercw.

My Apartment

2008-06-13T23:11:00.005-05:00

I have an apartment of my very own. This is my space; nobody else is allowed in here. I go in there when I'm very tired or frightened. I also hang out in there when my mom and dad aren't home. They'll say "Maxie, get in your apartment." And I go. Because I'm a good boy. And because Mom usually rewards me by slipping me a Greenie once I get in there.If I could only learn how to open and shut the door on my own, my apartment would be perfect!!Mom helped me decorate my apartment with this sticker that reflects my personal philosophy of living. Adds a nice touch, don't you think?

Do y'all have apartments?

Max

2008-06-03T16:54:00.001-05:00

Hey guys.

I've had a busy day!

Last night, my dad wasn't feeling very well, so I stayed awake to look after him while he got some rest. Let me tell you, I was exhausted by the time I got him ready for work. I know Dad appreciated my help, because I heard him tell Mom "you've done a good job raising Maxie." He could have given me a little more credit for being awesome, but whatev.

Anyway, after all that time I spent helping my dad, I was ready for a sleepytime. I hung out on the bed or in my apartment [that's Maxie-speak for crate. -- HCW] all afternoon, just trying to rest up. Then, about an hour ago, I looked out the window and saw my two very best friends standing outside. You know Sascha, of course. The other guy is my friend Gus. Mom says he's a French Bulldog, which explains why he's so much shorter than Sascha and me. That guy is great. He's always just so chill, he sits around making funny faces while Sascha and I play fetch. I always want to include him in the festivities, so I run around him and give him a greeting sniff until my mom tells me to back off.

Anyway,I saw my friends and was like "Mom, I don't care if you're sleeping. We have to go see Sascha and Gus."I ran out the door and down the stairs so that neither of my friends would have to go home before I got a chance to play with them. I had a great time with my friends and now I need another nap. It's been a good day -- I worked, rested and played!

Max

2008-06-01T18:14:00.004-05:00

Here's MaxiePaxie being a good boy during our recent trip to Louisville.

More Bad News...

2008-05-29T14:11:00.002-05:00

My girlfriend, LuLu, is going to be in Indiana with her grandparents all summer. Her mom is going to be working/studying in Chile, so she will be far away. I really like her, because she's so pretty and sweet. Sometimes she plays a little hard to get, but then she is very sweet. I like it when girls do that; it drives me nuts but it keeps me on my toes! I like to flirt with her by jumping over her when we walk.
I wonder if I could convince Mama to take me to Indiana to visit this pretty lady??

Maxie

Uncle Jake

2008-05-29T13:24:00.001-05:00

Investigating, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Hey y'all.

I'm really sad to tell you that my Uncle Jake passed away this week. That guy was so cool; he was twice my size and was really fun to play with. He took good care of my Grandma and Grandpa, and he loved to hang out with my Dad.

We'll miss you, dude. You were pretty awesome.

:'(

Max

People food danger

2008-05-14T07:27:00.001-05:00

Thought that all of Maxie's friends would be interested in this....

People foods’ that can kill your pet
From chocolate to raisins, here’s what not to feed Fido — even if he begs
By Sloan Barnett
TODAYShow.com contributor
updated 4:07 p.m. CT, Fri., May. 9, 2008
It feels good to treat your pet to human food every once in a while. Those puppy-dog eyes are hard to resist as they watch you eat and try to convince you that they are starving! It makes you want to give them a taste of everything you eat. But beware: Giving in to those eyes and giving dogs human foods can actually harm them.
In 2007, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center received more than 130,000 calls. Most cases of animal poisoning were caused by common human foods and household items.
Many foods we enjoy can be dangerous to animals. It's best to stick to pet food and a diet recommended by your vet. Here are a few of the most toxic foods that can harm your pet:
Bad news foods
Avocados
They contain a toxic component called persin, which can damage heart, lung and other tissue in many animals. This fruit is very toxic to dogs, cats and most animals.
Beer
Alcoholic beverages can cause the same damage to an animal's liver and brain as they cause in humans. But the effects can be deadly on animals since they are much smaller than us. The smaller the animal, the more deadly the effects can be. Even a small amount of alcohol may cause vomiting and damage the liver and brain.
Nuts
Walnuts and macadamia nuts are especially toxic. Effects can be anything from vomiting to paralysis to death. Within 12 hours of eating the nuts, pets start to develop symptoms such as an inability to stand or walk, vomiting, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), weakness, and an elevated heart rate. These symptoms can be even worse if your dog eats some chocolate with the nuts. The effect can cause kidney failure, often leading to death.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which can kill your pet if eaten in large quantities. Dark and unsweetened baking chocolates are especially dangerous. Giving your pup a piece of chocolate cake or even letting him lick the chocolate icing on the cake could cause him to become ill. Theobromine can also cause a dog or cat's heart to beat very rapidly or irregularly, which could result in death if the pet is exercising or overly active.
Candy
Candy or anything containing Xylitol (a common sweetener found in some diet products) can cause a sudden drop in an animal's blood sugar, loss of coordination and seizures. If left untreated, the animal could die.
Caffeine
Coffee, tea or any product that contains caffeine stimulates an animal's central nervous and cardiac systems. This can lead to restlessness, heart palpitations and death, depending on how much the animal consumes.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs. As little as a single serving of raisins can kill them. And the effects are cumulative, which means that even if a dog eats just one or two grapes or raisins regularly, the toxin that builds in his system will eventually kill him.
Onions
Onions are another common food that can be highly toxic to pets. They can destroy an animal's red blood cells and lead to anemia, weakness and breathing difficulties. Their effects are also cumulative over time.
Medicine
Hide medicine from your pets just like you would from your children. The most common cause of pet poisoning is from animals ingesting a medicine or drug normally prescribed for humans.
And this is not just because furry pals are getting into their pet parent's medicine cabinets. In many cases, pet owners give their feline and canine friends an over-the-counter medication to ease an animal's pain. But acetaminophen and ibuprofen, the active ingredients in many common pain relievers, are extremely toxic to dogs and cats. They can cause gastric ulcers, liver damage, kidney failure and sometimes death.
Good news foods
There are a few things that you CAN give to your furry pal. However, you should always consult a veterinarian before introducing a new food item to your pet.
Although these foods are normally harmless, some animals have sensitive gastrointestinal tracts. So even these healthy treats should be avoided if they cause gastrointestinal upset for your pet. Keep in mind that these and other "extras" should not make up more than 5 to 10 percent of the pet's daily caloric intake.
Lean meats
Any cooked lean meat should be fine for most dogs. High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. In addition, most companion animals do not need extra fat in their diets. Never give your pet meat with the bone in it. Animals can choke on the bones, and they can splinter as well.
Vegetables
Carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices and zucchini slices are all OK.
Fruit
Apple slices, orange slices, bananas and watermelon are all OK. Make sure the seeds have been taken out; seeds are not good for your pet!
Baked potatoes
Plain baked potatoes are fine, but make sure they are cooked — no unripe potatoes or potato plants.
Bread
Plain cooked bread is fine; just make sure there are no nuts or raisins added.
Rice and pasta
Plain, cooked pasta and white rice are OK. Often veterinarians recommend plain rice with some boiled chicken when gastrointestinal upset is present.
In case of emergency
Despite all the precautions you take to keep your pet pals safe, accidents do happen. That's why the ASPCA, Humane Society and animal advocates advise pet owners to keep the telephone numbers of their local veterinarian and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — (888) 426-4435 — in a prominent location.
Common signs of poisoning include muscle tremors or seizures; vomiting and diarrhea; drooling; redness of skin, ears and eyes; and swelling and bleeding.
If you suspect your pet has consumed, inhaled or come in contact with a toxic substance, stay calm and call for help immediately. If you see your pet consuming anything you think might be toxic, seek emergency help immediately even if she or he is not exhibiting any symptoms.

© 2008 MSNBC Interactive
URL: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/24544541/?GT1=43001

xoxo
Max's Mom

Stupid Race Clothes

2008-04-25T08:56:00.003-05:00

My mom bought me this stupid bandanna to wear tomorrow while she's doing the marathon. It says "Your Pace or Mine?", which is kind of funny, but I don't want to wear a scarf. It is not cool.

Maxie Paxie

When I grow up...

2008-04-25T08:38:00.004-05:00

So, this morning, Mama and I were checking our Gmail when we saw this link. I'm always on to my dad to take me to work with him, because I think I would be a good lawyer. I could sit at a desk, drink coffee and yell at people. I'd probably have to take an occasional sleepy, but I could draft some documents. I've helped Dad at home often enough to know what I'm doing.

Mama says I would also be good as a model, because I'm a pretty handsome guy. I don't want to be remembered just for my looks, though. I'm so much more than just a pretty face.

I also think it would be cool to work as a chef. I love to try out new foods and help my mama cook. I really like it when she's sloppy and drops a little in the floor. All mine!

Even though I have a lot of options, I think the best career for me is to be a professional adventurer. I like adventure, and I could go from town to town having new ones. That sounds pretty cool.

I've got a big future, y'all. I'll keep you posted.

Lulu

2008-04-21T12:14:00.003-05:00

Isn't my girlfriend pretty??

Maxie Monday

2008-04-21T11:54:00.005-05:00

Hey y'all.

I still don't feel good. My skin isn't as inflamed, and my ears aren't as infected, but I don't have much energy at all. Also, I'm thirsty all the time from the medicine and I have to pee all the time. I had a little bit of an accident overnight, which was embarrassing because I'm not the kind of guy who pees in the house. Fortunately, Mom was pretty cool about it. She knows I wouldn't do it if I weren't on all this medicine.

I did feel well enough to go out this morning and play for a while. I dug in the dirt,which was super-awesome. Then my BFF Sascha came out to play. Without his baby. That was even more awesome!

After all that fun, I was pretty exhausted. That's the worst part about being sick. You just want to lie around. That's no good when you're a professional adventurer like me.

Talk to you later,
Max

Feeling Icky

2008-04-18T09:00:00.004-05:00

Hey y'all.

I've had another allergy attack this week. This one has been really bad; My skin has been very itchy and irritated, and I've just felt icky. I've been sleeping a lot, and just want to be close to my mama and daddy.

Yesterday, Mom decided to try out a new doctor for me. Dr. R. told me that I probably have environmental allergies as well as, or possibly rather than, food allergies. She ran a lot of tests, had the vet techs clean out my ears, and had her colleagues take a look at my itchy skin. She prescribed me a bunch of medicine (Mom says it's a steroid and an antibiotic), which are supposed to make me feel better. Right now, they just make me sleepy and thirsty. Apparently, I even slept through earthquake tremors last night.

I tried to be a good boy in the Doctor's office, but you know that is really hard. I was excellent for the first hour, then got a little stir crazy and tried to open the door myself. Dr. R. was pretty cool about the door. She laughed and said that I was smart. I like it when a smart, pretty lady pays me a compliment. :)

Here's a photo of me at Dr. R's office that Mom surreptitiously shot with her BlackBerry. Somebody should take that thing away from her; she makes me feel like Britney Spears with my own personal paparazzo.

Talk to y'all later.
Max

Fine. I'll Walk Myself.

2008-04-11T15:53:00.001-05:00

Fine. I'll Walk Myself., originally uploaded by heathercw.

Baby boy is a year old!!!

2008-04-03T09:56:00.006-05:00

Hey y'all.

Can you believe that Maxie looked like this when we picked him up,

Like this his first night at home,

and is this big now??

Happy Birthday week, buddy. Your mama loves you.

Maxie's Mom

Birthday Present from Dad

2008-04-03T09:47:00.001-05:00

Birthday Present from Dad, originally uploaded by heathercw.

It's my birthday!!

2008-03-31T17:12:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all.

I'm a year old today. Mama and Daddy say that means I'm a big boy now, not a baby. I've spent the day playing, sitting on the porch, and snoozing. In a few minutes, I'm going to help my mom make shrimp scampi. I sure hope she's clumsy in the kitchen and drops some. Shrimp tastes GOOD, and I'm not allergic to it!

No big party plans tonight. Lulu is in Louisville with her mom and Sascha's always busy with that baby guy, so I'll probably chill at home. I wonder if my mom could make a cake out of Greenies....

Maxie the Birthday Boy

Soooooo Excited!

2008-03-21T08:01:00.004-05:00

Hey y'all!!! My mama is an awesome lady because she left her coffee cup unattended. Just the way I like it -- good strong coffee made with nice beans, with lots of Splenda and lots of half and half. And in her Louisville Stoneware china. Those cups are so excellent; my dad says they keep the coffee warm and insulated!

I've gotta go play. I'm so excited I can't sit still this morning.

Maxie

Second chance

2008-03-18T13:16:00.002-05:00

Y'all know I wasn't too impressed with that baby guy that came to live with my best friend Sascha. However, I got to play with my buddy today and realized he's the same awesome guy he's always been. The baby dude was asleep the whole time, so he didn't impede us chasing one another. I guess I should give him a second chance, but that still doesn't mean I want one of those characters at my house.

Max

My Dad...

2008-03-14T09:14:00.003-05:00

So, my dad has been threatening to post to my blog all week. He says that Mama and I make me sound too sweet and obedient. He says he's going to expose the dark side of Maxie.

What do y'all think??? Should we let Dad blog??

Max

R.I.P. ChubbyBubby

2008-03-13T21:29:00.002-05:00

R.I.P. ChubbyBubby, originally uploaded by heathercw.

Maxie's dear friend ChubbyBubby passed away today at the age of six months, from complications resulting from lack of stuffing. He was a beloved friend and faithful companion.

ChubbyBubby was buried in a private ceremony. His dearest friend, Max, could not be reached for comment.

I don't know about all that....

2008-03-10T16:57:00.002-05:00

My best friend (and neighbor) Sascha is a really cool guy. He's a chocolate lab mix, and great fun to play with. However, Sascha is a different man since he got a baby. Mom says that, technically, the baby belongs to Sascha's parents. Whatever the deal is, I've certainly noticed that he doesn't get to play as much since this baby character has come on the scene. I don't think I'm ready for that kind of responsibility; I've asked my parents not to bring any of those babies in to my house until I'm much older!!!

Now, I apologize for any scatalogical musings. My mom has told me that they are rude and should not be included in my writing. However, I'm fascinated by this fact about babies -- they have little plastic bags attached to their bottoms, and that's where they go to the bathroom! Now, I've already told you how I feel about humans' disgusting habits, but that is simply repulsive.

I do not want one of those sketchy characters in my house anytime soon!!!

Maxie

The Well-Read Max

2008-03-09T19:41:00.008-05:00

I strongly believe that, to be well-rounded, a Maxie must be well-read. My damnable lack of both opposable thumbs and the capacity to read make it quite hard to achieve this goal. However, I usually find a way to ingest the various reading materials that Mom and Dad bring into the house.

Ever since I was a baby, I've been a huge fan of Dad's Economist magazines. I often rip up the pages and roll around in them so that I can truly absorb a well-rounded view of world events. I find that this helps give me a sophisticated, rather British, global perspective.

(photo courtesy of The Economist)

I also like Mom's etiquette books. I find that these help me be a more refined, genteel Maxie. Like most etiquette fans, I find Emily Post to be the gold standard.

(Photo courtesy of Maxie's Mom)

Sometimes I'm so excited when my parents return from Barnes and Noble that I rip into the bag in my haste to learn new things.

(Photo courtesy of Maxie's Mom)

It's all part of being a gentleman and a scholar, y'all.

Maxie.

"Black Dog Syndrome"

2008-03-08T22:04:00.004-06:00

This story absolutely broke my mama's heart. Apparently large black dogs, like me, are often discriminated against by potential new parents at animal shelters.

Come on, y'all. That's just mean.

Maxie

So...

2008-03-08T14:25:00.001-06:00

Max in the snow, originally uploaded by heathercw.

...have y'all ever played in the snow before? Today was my first time, and it was AWESOME!!!

A man of many, many names

2008-02-28T17:18:00.004-06:00

Mom and Dad have so very many nicknames for me. My full name is Maximilian, which I'm only called when they are very, very pissed at me. Like when I eat an entire roll of toilet paper. That makes Dad so mad that he stretches my name out while he's yelling at me.

When Mom and Dad want to talk about me, but pretend that they aren't, they use my code name, which is "Roscoe." I know that they're talking about me, but they sound so ridiculous that I let them get by with it.

Then, there are all the variations of my name. I answer to all of those... Maxie, Maxie Paxie, Maximus, Paximus, The Pax. Mom's always making up little nicknames for me.

Humans really are dumb. I need a nap just thinking about it.

Maxie

You know what's gross about humans????

2008-02-15T16:52:00.000-06:00

They pee in the house.