Izzy Loves ScooterFood

The Second Big Snow

2010-02-27T12:46:00.003-05:00

Again the park was covered in a muffling blanket of snow which the dogs proceeded to tear apart. Complete crazy joy!

Ben Steals Saul's Giant ScooterSnack

2010-02-14T11:40:00.004-05:00

I make outsized ScooterSnacks for Saul, my favorite mastiff at Ft. Greene Park. They're the size of a baseball. Usually Saul can gobble it in 5 seconds, as opposed to the half second it takes him to gulp a regular-sized snack.

Anyway I made him one this morning which I forgot to bring to the park. So I put it on the chair beside the door so I'd remember to take it to him tomorrow.

Well my little gentle Ben, who never steals food, decided enough was enough and quietly purloined the giant snack. I turned around and there he was happily sitting on the couch contemplating the uber snack he was about to attack. It took him longer than 5 seconds to eat, but not by much.

Stormaggedon or a SNOWalicious Day

2010-02-10T15:00:00.007-05:00

How beautiful it's been today. I love snow, snow, snow. And so do the dogs.

This is sassy Izzy with a bit of Jack's ass on the side.

And here's Izzy, Jack, Tenzin, Ben and Machiavelli waiting for a ScooterSnack this morning.

Ben and His Buddy Oola

2010-01-05T18:44:00.004-05:00

Ben has the most wonderful dog walker, Paul, through PawPaw Pet Care -- fabulous service in Brooklyn run by Melissa and Adam, two animal-loving artists. (See more about PawPaw: http://zoomnyc.org/2009/11/10/business_dogs/.)

Paul comes to pick up Ben in the afternoons for a romp at the park. Usually Oola is his walking buddy. Oola is the sweetest, sleekest, blackest, just-out-of-puppyhood lab mix. She and Ben play like fiends.

Here they are fooling around in my apartment.

The Amazing Shanti

2009-12-09T19:36:00.003-05:00

Not a magician, just an extraordinary Frenchie.

Normally I only have pictures of dogs at the park but this one of Shanti was so spiritual I had to make an exception.

This is how she sits. She wasn't posed.

Think of her when you're meditating.

ScooterSnacks Movie

2009-11-15T07:46:00.005-05:00

ScooterSnacks Movie made with love by a fantastic bunch of women and their dogs at Ft. Greene Park in Brooklyn. Thanks especially to Stefanie Dworkin who filmed and edited, Clare Piaget who also filmed and did some of the animation, and Joan Albert who art directed and did animation. There's strength in community!javascript:void(0)

The Park on a Saturday

2009-11-08T06:20:00.002-05:00

The park on a Saturday in fall is glorious! After off-leash ends a parade of eager shoppers and their dogs parade over to the market for fresh vegetables, fish , delicious milk, etc. Those puppies who don't do so well walking around the stalls are hitched up at the park entrance.

What a Great Clinton Hill Weekend

2009-11-01T11:42:00.008-05:00

This has been a pretty special weekend. Halloween brought the Pupkin and the amazing 313 Clinton Ave Halloween Night (this year Carnival of Carnage). Sunday was the marathon (still going on right outside my window.)

This neighborhood is an incredible community.

Here are a few of the amazing costumes from the PUPKIN. You can see more at http://www.fortgreenepups.org

The Pous Chef

2009-10-31T17:35:00.002-04:00

One more close-up of Ben as my Pous-Chef.

(come on...he's cute as hell...with a lot of resentment in his eyes...but it only lasted 2 minutes)

Halloween 2009 -- The Pupkin

2009-10-31T17:13:00.003-04:00

What a fabulous day! Halloween on a Saturday should be mandated by law. OK, maybe not. The year that it does fall on a Saturday makes it SO SPECTACULAR!

Here's Ben suffering as the Pous Chef to my Chef of Death.

Beautiful Ben on the Beach

2009-10-25T16:14:00.003-04:00

Ben's shadow in mid run

New Day at the Beach

2009-10-25T16:06:00.002-04:00

So we, Rachel and I, made it to Jacob Riis Park again this morning. An incredibly beautiful day that started out cold and got a lot warmer during our walk.

There were five of us. Three anxious dogs and 2 dozy humans. Plus a lot of sandpipers and a few fishermen.

Here are the dogs, Izzy, Mr. Smith and Ben, stuffed into the back seat of Rachel's car and behaving very well, on the way down to the beach.

The Beach Video

2009-10-22T17:15:00.002-04:00

This is a little late but here's a short video of Ben and Izzy frolicking on the beach.

We'll probably be going back this weekend. This time Mr. Smith is joining us. (God I hope there's no poop on the beach.)

Wrangling the Pack

2009-10-22T06:32:00.004-04:00

So I've had the help of some amazingly talented women in making a video about the popularity of ScooterSnacks. Here they are wrangling the dogs for one of the shots.

Hopefully the video will be available soon.

Ben at the Beach

2009-10-22T06:25:00.002-04:00

Pure joy...mine watching Ben zoom around on the huge expanse of Jacob Riis beach, his first beach experience. His having such a huge, wide-open space to run in, new smells to investigate and a lot of diggable sand!

It was also a little scary--the crashing of the surf was totally new. Intriguing but not completely inviting. So Ben dipped his toes in but didn't swim. Maybe with a few more visits?

The Most Beautiful Saul

2009-09-21T18:34:00.003-04:00

OK finally I caught Saul on camera. Video as it happens. Every time I walk into the park when Saul is there, if he sees me, he'll run right at me across the field hoping for some ScooterSnacks.

I can't resist him. He's two hundred pounds of dog coming straight at me but the biggest threat is his drool (copious strings of it as soon as he sniffs the snacks). Other than that his teeth are tiny and he truly is gentle.

Saul is one of my favorites.

Ben is in Love

2009-09-20T11:51:00.004-04:00

Ben has suddenly developed a lovey-dovey attachment to Izzy. The other day we spent the morning with Izzy and Mr. Smith. Nothing unusual. But when it came time to leave Ben kept trying to follow them home. First time he wouldn't listen to me. Finally I gave in and walked with Rachel and Lisa.

At Clinton Ave. we had to leave them. Ben made a high-pitched bark that turned into a wine and then a howl most of the way home. He was so distressed and I had no idea what to do.

Anyway he was happy to meet up with her again that evening and share a moment of fluffy tails waving in the wind.

A Night Tail

2009-09-14T23:44:00.000-04:00

Beautiful cool September nights have started. And the park is a peaceful, relaxing place to be. especially after 9pm when the dogs can go off leash again.

Ben is hard to see at night but usually doesn't stray too far. However one of his favorite spots is right in the middle of a bank of bushes. I think he forages for the tenderest greens. I love how his tail looks like an exotic flower in this photo.

Ben is a Swimmer!

2009-09-06T12:38:00.004-04:00

Wow! What a great thing to learn about my dog. Ben is like a four-legged porpoise.

Izzy and Rachel, Lisa and Mr. Smith, & Ben and I went to Prospect Park this morning. It was Ben's first time. He was unreasonably happy in that park, running here and there, occasionally running loops. But when he got to the water, well, that's when it got really fun.

First we came up on a waterfall with a manageable shelf which both he and Izzy explored, just getting their paws wet. Then he navigated himself down to the lakeside. All I heard was a large "SPLOOSH". He was in before I had a chance to blink.

Paddle , paddle, paddle then hauled himself out. He did this twice more - all in not permitted areas (there was little I could do to stop him) - then turned his nose up at the dog beach. I think it's just too crowded and rowdy for him.

I wonder why Ben being a water dog makes me so happy. Maybe because I love the water so much too.

No More "Day XX"

2009-09-06T11:14:00.001-04:00

Izzy is 11 pounds lighter (total since beginning of year and not all from the last few months) so this blog is changing.

Now it's going to be about Izzy and her friends at Ft. Greene Park. We hope other dog people will write stories about their dogs. If they don't, we will!

Here's Mr. Smith getting hauled out of the water earlier today.

Elmo Gets in on the Action -- Day 86

2009-08-25T22:12:00.005-04:00

Michelle was kind enough to pack Izzy a supply of ScooterSnacks for our Maine Vacation because we all know how CRAZY she is for them. Well my parent's dog, Elmo, is food dominant, but also pretty picky on his treats. Well Izzy had to share her snacks with him (cuz he was as crazy as Izzy is about them) and I had to be careful to give them each a treat with a distance separating them. Izzy had to eat her treats, food, etc. outside on the grass. By the end of the week, Elmo was carrying his treats out there to eat them with Izzy. And there was no competition, just a pair of dogs, happily eating their ScooterSnacks.

Izzy Lost More Weight! Day 85

2009-08-24T00:08:00.004-04:00

I have great news. Izzy lost 4 POUNDS. Yes, the girl on her way to a new svelte doggy self. She is down to 73. Woohoo! and you can see it in her Saucy walk.

Back from Maine! Day 77 to 84

2009-08-23T23:59:00.007-04:00

So Izzy had her annual trip to Maine. I realized something about this while we were there. I discovered Maine and Maine Camp, where we go, because of Izzy. The first time I accepted Nancy's invitation to go there was the first fall that Izzy came into my life. And I accepted partly because Nancy invited me every year since college, but mostly because Izzy could come along too. And we have gone every year since, and are now even joined by my family and friends.

Well this was a perfect week. The weather was great. The water was warm. Izzy and I swam almost every day. We walked the beach, we hiked the train, I ate Lobstah. The cutest was when I set up my blanket and umbrella on the beach and Izzy would dig her hole next to my blanket, in the shade of the umbrella and lay down right next to me. I loved it!

So this week, I only came prepared with half a week's worth of food, due to the limited space in the frig. I also had the "special sauce" from Michelle and the idea about how to prepare some food for Izzy. Well, It was a hit with Elmo, my parent's dog (he normally gets wellness). Izzy was a little more subjective about my concoction. Definitely she prefers the Scooter Food made by Michelle. So sad, even my dog does not like my cooking…

Izzy's on Vacation --Day 76

2009-08-15T11:31:00.004-04:00

Izzy is away in Maine for the week, frolicking in the ocean, eating barbecue and generally enjoying nature.

She'll be back in about 9 days with some awesome photos and lots of stories.

We know you can't wait!

Through the Slats of a Bench -- Day 75

2009-08-14T15:52:00.000-04:00

So I can't tell if this is a desperate cry for ScooterSnacks or a look of suffering because she's not getting any.

In any case Izzy has determined that putting her head through the slats of a park bench is an excellent way to get more treats.

Ben's Beautiful Head -- Day 74

2009-08-13T10:27:00.004-04:00

OK this post isn't about Izzy. Had to slip one in about Ben and his beautiful head... It's like a slip-stream mobile home -- rounded edges with a blunt front end made for cutting through wind.

Ben has the advantage of meltingly beautiful brown eyes.

Last night Mr. Ben tore off his dew claw. But I only discovered it this morning. Well Sharon discovered it actually.

He seems fine. Not limping. And still running around like a mad man.

I put some Neosporin on after cleaning the wound with saline solution. No bleeding so I'm guessing he's fine.

Jedi Master Training -- Day 73

2009-08-12T22:20:00.002-04:00

Is Izzy turning Ben to the dark side?

Look at these 2. They are working every trick that they have to get treats. And Ben is Michelle's. He gets Scooterfood and treats all the time. He has no fear of cut off!

Hungry, Hungry Hippo -- Day 72

2009-08-11T22:17:00.001-04:00

Izzy loves Michelle and the scooter treats. Look at her. Eating right out of her hand. Izzy would probably grab a treat right out of her hand if she could. or her bag.

We had been away for 3 days, and instead of marking her territory and greeting her friends, Izzy had to find Michelle.

Izzy's Baltimore Weekend -- Day 69, 70, 71

2009-08-08T22:10:00.005-04:00

I think Izzy is most grateful for central air conditioning. It was in the 90s while we were in Baltimore and Izzy barely wanted to leave the house. In the car, we had to ride with the windows open and the air on. It was unbearable.

She did greet my mother with much enthusiasm that was not a/c influenced. Thank goodness! And she was rewarded with (just) chicken for dinner. A big bowl of it. Important lessons learned for Izzy!

We tried to go to our favorite park for our regular hike, but instead ended up spending all the time around the water. In Izzy's case, it was in the water! She was very happy.

Tummy Tuck Needed? -- Day 68

2009-08-07T22:08:00.000-04:00

So tonight I was giving Izzy her daily belly scratch. On her chest, there is a lot more loose skin there now. She always had loose skin there, but it is noticeably more. Well, I noticed a lump. Would I have noticed this before? There would have been no way. Is it a concern? I am sure. We will have to have the vet check it out. It feels much like one of those fatty deposits that my parents' dog has. She shows no pain when I touch, pinch or, squeeze it. I will have my parents check it out when we go home.

Drool Pool -- Day 67

2009-08-06T22:06:00.001-04:00

This is Izzy drool. She is staring at Michelle, trying to use her jedi powers to get more scooter treats. The mere thought of them make her salivate. Will it stop her from becoming a jedi master? who knows….

SMACK DOWN! -- Day 66

2009-08-05T22:03:00.002-04:00

So a funny thing happened on the way to the park…

Izzy and I were walking to the park this morning, and there were some new dogs walking across the street. Izzy kept looking at them, until we passed them and then was looking back at them. They must have been boy dogs the way she was wagging her tale and distance flirting. Well, I stopped paying attention and was looking forward until the I heard this THUD. She had walked into a light post! When I realized that, I laughed so hard that she did not know what to do. I realized that I should show concern (of course, I was concerned) that I immediately consoled her and made sure she was ok.

She got even. When we were leaving the park, she was following me. When I turned around to put her on her leash, she was gone. I walked around and there she was with Michelle. That is love for you.

We're Back! -- Day 65

2009-08-04T21:58:00.001-04:00

Izzy had some regular dog food. So Mr. Smith was over on Monday and I needed to feed the dogs dinner. I did not have enough Scooterfood to feed them both, so I feed them some canned Nutro and Royal Canin dry. (this is what Izzy used to eat.) Well, MY BAD! I suffered for it today! It makes me appreciate the scooterfood all the morning when it was clean up time on our walk.

Herding the Izzys -- Day 64

2009-08-03T23:56:00.000-04:00

Izzy and Izzy 2 look like a herd of brown cows munching on the yummy grass of the hill today. I probably had to call her 5 times to get her to lift her head to take the picture. Otherwise, she looked a little more like a bear on the hill eating grass. Life is good when the grass is so green.

Dealing with the Most Humid Month's first days -- Day 62 and 63

2009-08-03T21:52:00.006-04:00

This picture exemplifies how Izzy felt about the weekend. It was too hot on Saturday to do anything and too wet and humid on Sunday to do anything. So she is just going to lay there and look like she is melting into the ground.

It looks like our mild weather is over and it is going to get hot. It will be interesting to see how Izzy holds up through this

Izzy's Boyfriends -- Day 61

2009-07-31T23:31:00.001-04:00

Some days I think we go to the park to see Izzy's boyfriends. Most days, we go to the park so Izzy can beg Scooter Treats off Michelle.

Also, some days we go to the park so that Izzy can munch on the tasty untouched grass. You know which stalks I am referring to, the ones that pop up from cracks in the sidewalk where no dog has peed. And they are bright green and flat. Is it as good as a ScooterTreat? No way. But it is good stuff in Izzy world.

Jedi Mind Powers -- Day 60

2009-07-30T22:22:00.001-04:00

Izzy was using her jedi mind powers on me this morning to get up and get her to the park before it got too hot. Can you see it in this look? And we were already in the elevator heading out the door. I think the morning in the park is better than happy hour any day for Izzy.

Street Wise -- day 59

2009-07-29T13:45:00.002-04:00

Oh my god the streets are way too hot. And the humidity is killing.

So Izzy takes every opportunity to lay and relax during walks. Still her goal is THE PARK and greenery.

Vampire EYES -- Day 58

2009-07-28T22:39:00.003-04:00

Look into my eyes...Feel my pain...Love me...

OR just give me a treat and we'll be good.

Way Too Early Rising -- Day 57

2009-07-27T23:32:00.000-04:00

Was it because we got up at 3:30am to drive back to bklyn or because it was super humid and warm? who knows? But Izzy was pretty much mush today.

Weekend Jul 25 & 26 -- Day 55 and 56

2009-07-26T23:14:00.003-04:00

Another weekend out of the city. YAY!

We went to Baltimore to spend time with the family. It was spent in the backyard, laying on the cool cement floor in the basement, and hiking.

My mom still insists that Izzy's personality has changed on this diet. She really did not greet mom, at all. And Mom is Izzy's greatest spoiler. That is who provides her bandana collection. I am not sure what that is all about. We will see what happens when we spend the week with her and Dad in Maine.

Dad and Steph should believe that her poo is virtually stink free, but they still deny it. LOL!

GooGoo Eyes Again -- Day 54

2009-07-24T21:25:00.002-04:00

Izzy has been practicing her goo goo eyes. Not to mention, working her flirt moves (including the roundhouse.) She smiles, she winks, she sits like a pro, anything to get a scootertreat. I thought she only works these moves on Michelle. But when Blanca had some scootertreats, Izzy was trying to work Blanca, too. JoJo dropped his treat and Izzy was there like a hoover to scoop that one up.

You might wonder, am I not feeding her? Is she starving? The answer is no. She gets her breakfast and dinner (warmed up, of course) every day. She gets some chicken treats in the morning and a few pieces of lamb lung from her walker. This is all in addition to the chicken bones she scoops up off the sidewalk. The girl should not be hungry. (and I have heard her tummy growl in the past, it is impossible to miss.)

The Pied Piper -- Day 53

2009-07-23T23:24:00.002-04:00

Izzy has like a homing device on Michelle. I did not see or hear her in the park until Izzy went running up the stairs in a hurry. I looked up and there were Michelle and Ben at the top. Michelle is like the pied piper of the park. We walked with them for awhile, even to their exit. When they left, I started towards our exit and Izzy just stood there, not sure which way she wanted to go. Of course she caved and followed me, but that look of utter confusion was on her face for a good minute.

Moseying Down Chicken Bone Alley -- Day 52

2009-07-22T22:21:00.000-04:00

Mr. Smith is staying with us. He and Izzy are like the chicken bone hoovers of Fort Greene. If there is a chicken bone, they will find it.

They have also started making a ruckus in the hallways of my building. As soon as I grab their leashes and open the door, they are running and playing and romping and tumbling down the hall. How they do not wake everyone is a mystery to me! THEN I open the door to the stairway which starts the mad race down the first flight, quick tour of the 4th floor hall, and then back down the rest of the stairs. You would think that after like gazillionth time on the fourth floor, they would know what is there, but that does not stop them.

And all this before we ever start the walk!

Rain, Again -- Day 51

2009-07-21T21:45:00.000-04:00

Izzy does not poop for her dog walker, erin. She is a very private girl (well, was, with this blog and everything....). Anyhow Lisa and Mr. Smith were kind enough to walk Izzy in the evening so I could work on my pottery. Izzy gifted lisa with one of her barely smelly, nice and firm, rather small poops. It is a sign of her love!

Leaving the Country -- Day 50

2009-07-20T22:33:00.001-04:00

Back in the city.

Izzy was so tired from our weekend adventure that I did not think she would make it to the park. How wrong I was!

She was happy to see her friends and even pulled her regular tactics to stay longer.

She was tired when we got home, but rested up after work. We took a nice long walk in the evening and she JUMPED into bed with me. Usually I have to help her up on the few occasions she her royal highness wants to grace the bed. But tonight she jumped on her own.

A Weekend in the Country -- Day 48 and 49

2009-07-18T23:22:00.000-04:00

We got up bright and early for our drive with Izzy 2 and Tucker up to the Catskills. It was one jam packed weekend trip.

Izzy hiked, and swam and ran around like a wild dog. She saw some bears, a couple deer and even a few newts and frogs

Both days, I gave her a little extra food because she was one busy dog. She only got a couple chicken treats which she shared with Jack and Izzy 2. And she drank a ton of water: water from the bowl, lake water, stream water and some puddles.

She was so tired when we got back on Sunday night. She was in exactly the same spot Monday morning as she was Sunday when we got back from our walk.

Getting Ready to Go on a Trip -- Day 47

2009-07-17T21:54:00.000-04:00

GooGoo Eyes Are Powerful-- Day 46

2009-07-16T20:48:00.001-04:00

We got up extra early to meet Michelle this morning. I had to get into work for a meeting, so we headed out at a little after 6. It was gloomy out and we were both dragging. But once we got there Izzy is happy to see all the other dogs and Michelle, of course.

Could Izzy use the googoo eyes more?!! She practically sticks her head in Michelle's bag to get treats. Michelle had to give me one to lead her out of the park with. Otherwise, she was going to stay with her and Ben. I never thought I would see the day that Izzy would abandon me for someone else. At least it is someone who makes amazing dog food!

We took a walk tonight to the ATM. She loves to go there and bask in the AC.

Sweet Lil Bear -- Day 45

2009-07-15T22:43:00.001-04:00

Izzy did not want to get up this morning. She lazed around while I got her food ready and got dressed. When I grabbed my bag and her toy, she rushed over to eat her food. And she would not leave until it was done.

It is getting warmer. Just a few degrees but the humidity is increasing. We have to follow the shade home, the sun is just too warm at 8 am for the lil bear.

I had class tonight, so Lisa came over and took Izzy out in the evening. Erin, her dog walker, has been feeding Izzy her dinner. So when I got home, Izzy was all chill and happy. We had our rub down time, where I sit on the floor and scratch her all over. And then we went to bed.

Izzy is not pooing in the evening again. We are back to one a day - and it is virtually stink free. Life is good.

Mesmerizing Lamb Lung -- Day 44

2009-07-14T22:20:00.001-04:00

Food (chicken), walk, park. Izzy took off after a squirrel today. Running with the other squirrel chasers! Reminded me of when she was younger and chased rabbits and squirrels all the time. It is amazing how young she is acting these days.

I got home a little late this night, and while eating dinner, gave Izzy a couple pieces of lamb lung (small ones). And put the bag down on the sofa. Now Izzy does not get up on the furniture. This is by her choice, not mine. But she sat and stared at the bag like she had the power to make it move and open for her. It was funny how intent she was on that bag. And it gave me 5 minutes to relax before we had to play and play again...

Dawdling thru the Park -- Day 43

2009-07-13T21:09:00.001-04:00

Izzy seems very content with her chicken for breakfast her chicken for dinner, her chicken treats, and the scooter treats she follows Michelle around for like an addict. I think she practices all her cutest looks on Michelle for those treats.

We have moved into that stage of summer where Izzy does not want to leave the park. She will dawdle, pretend not to hear me, walk super slow, anything to stay in the park just a little bit longer. And if Michelle is there Izzy will seem to forget that I exist. This change in her diet is not making me feel loved! :( That is until I get home from work and she wants my full attention to play play play until bed. We took a long walk tonight to see if she would settle down. I will have to keep that up until it gets too warm for her.

Comparing Izzy

2009-07-13T09:45:00.007-04:00

Izzy on June 1, 2009

Izzy on July 13, 2009

Fur in July -- Day 42

2009-07-12T22:38:00.002-04:00

Boy, do Izzy and I have a routine.

Get up, get out of bed. Breakfast, and a walk to the park.

It is warm out today, but we decided to venture to the AfroPunk street festival anyway. It was crowded and lots of scary skateboards. So we ended up at the margarita place. It was so warm, on the way back on the street between 2 warehouses, we had to stop in the shade and enjoy the breeze (and eat some grass growing in the cracks of the sidewalk).

She got a chicken breast for dinner with a much smaller quantity of ScooterFood. She has been chillaxing in the AC since. Life is hard in July when you wear a fur coat.

A Very Long Walk -- Day 41

2009-07-11T21:27:00.000-04:00

The morning we took a car to Prospect Park with Mr. Smith and Lisa. Izzy ran and played and even took a dip at the waterfall. After 9, when the dogs had to have their leashes on, we left and walked down to fifth ave for some breakfast.

From there, we walked, and shopped. Izzy even went into the dressing room at Old Navy. We went into NYC Pet to see if she wanted to pick a treat after he trek, but she was indecisive and left without one.

She was out for almost 5 hours and only at the end showed any sign of tiring. It was amazing, in July, that she managed such a morning. I needed a nap after that but not her!

Another Week Gone -- Day 40

2009-07-10T21:21:00.001-04:00

Ahh Friday, finally, after a very long week.

Chicken for breakfast and dinner. To celebrate the end of the work week, Izzy got a rawhide.

We saw Monica in the park this morning. Her dogs, Layla and Scarlet, also eat ScooterFood. She and I decided that Michelle needs to make a program for us, since Izzy looks so good.

Day 39

2009-07-09T21:18:00.000-04:00

Waitress Service -- Day 38

2009-07-08T23:05:00.003-04:00

Izzy is a little princess. The day started the same as most work days. Park, scavenging, chicken breakfast, etc…. But Lisa came home this evening and picked up the dogs and met me at the margarita place. Once Izzy got there, she could not even bother to get up to drink her water. She just laid there and waited for our nice waitress, Yale, to bring Izzy her water. And then she laid there and drank it.

I think she might be a little spoiled.

How Frisky Can She Get -- Day 37

2009-07-07T21:00:00.002-04:00

Today was a repeat of yesterday. Same food, the dogs play in the stairway as we go down the stairs for our walks, and then Izzy wanted to play and play when I got home. Also going to the little park is not enough at night. Oh no, we have to take a walk all around too. These dogs are demanding.

SORRY WE'VE BEEN BEHIND -- Day 36

2009-07-06T22:37:00.001-04:00

(Got a little behind but we're getting back on track. Stay with us.)

Back to work. Mr. Smith, Izzy and I were up and out of the apt. by 6am to get to the park. Those 2 are happy as could be, walking along, looking for discarded chicken bones. You would think I did not feed either of them.

Izzy got her chicken for breakfast and dinner, and she shared a few chicken treats with Mr. Smith. They both pooed 2x, like clockwork.

When I got home from work, Izzy was restless. She wanted to play and play and play. And not with Mr. Smith, he did not want to play. She wanted all my attention and wanted to toss all her toys around. Such a funny girl.

A Threesome - Day 35

2009-07-05T22:03:00.001-04:00

There was no sleeping in this day. My sister tried to take them out again first thing, but they both climbed into bed with me. How flattering!

I fed Izzy her chicken, and Mr. Smith his food. I walked away half way through their meal and think he went after her food. Oh well, she did not act mad. We took a nice long walk in the park, with Mr. Smith on his leash because of all the bbq trash, etc. around.

In the afternoon, we went back to the park to enjoy the day and read my book. I lost track of time, and noticed that they had started chewing on sticks, and Mr. Smith was eating grass and dirt. (ugh!) It was time to go. We ran into Mary on the way back. She could not get over how much slimmer Izzy looked. Mary had probably not seen Izzy for at least a month and knows Izzy very well. She also mentioned that the scale might be off at the Vets and to try a different one. That might mean good things….

Izzy got her chicken dinner and Mr. Smith got his. I did give them a little salmon as a treat, which they both gobbled up and then checked each other's bowls, too.

Happy 4th! -- Day 34

2009-07-04T19:54:00.002-04:00

It is hard to put a dog on a diet. I had tried before with Izzy, substituting frozen green beans, steaming broccoli and cauliflower in chicken stock and substituting that…. I mentioned yesterday that Mr. Smith is on a diet. His vet said he needs to lose 7 pounds (he weighs 37) and recommended cutting his food intake. This is so hard to do. Why? He is ravenously hungry. He has a remarkable sense of smell, and that boy could smell a cookie on the counter from across the room! He has been scavenging the streets and tries to pull me to all the discarded food in the park.

So why am I bringing this up? Because switching Izzy to Scooterfood has never been like this. I know she misses her rawhides, but she is content. She gets 2 meals a day and food she loves. (bonus that it is warmed up.) The treats that she gets (scooter treats, chicken treats and lamb lung) are her favorites and not bad for her. High in protein and low in fat.

I should note that Izzy and Mr. Smith are 2 very different dogs. Izzy has never been highly food motivated and Mr. Smith is part beagle.

Anyhow for the 4th, the dogs had a great walk in the park, went to the farmers market and chilled in the AC. Then dinner and fireworks. I fell asleep really early and my sister Genny said that she would take the dogs out one last walk. Izzy would not go, and because she would not go, Mr. Smith would not go. Funny dogs.

Mr. Smith Diets too -- Day 33

2009-07-03T21:28:00.003-04:00

We left late for the park this morning. My sister walked with me so I could head on to work from the park. It was warm but Izzy plugged along, actually almost power walking with Stephanie. they did give her water at the park. She was pooped after that and did not go out again till Mike (filling in for Erin) walked her.

I had asked Mike (since he only sees Izzy occasionally) if he thought she lost weight. He left me a nice note: "Izzy looks like she may have slimmed down a bit. She was much more up beat on the walk than she usually is with me." And then he recommended ScooterFood! LOL! I will have to let him know what a fan Izzy is of ScooterFood!

She had chicken for her meals today, and a couple chicken treats. But that is it.

Mr. Smith is staying with us from Saturday until Wednesday. He is on a diet too.

The Sisters Visit -- Day 32

2009-07-02T21:23:00.001-04:00

Izzy is all stocked up with a fresh batch of chicken. Could she be any happier? I thought she was going to go after my tote bag as were walking back from meeting Michelle.

My sisters came up for the weekend, so I came home from work early and Izzy was thrilled to see them. She ran across the street and even jumped on Genny in greeting. Izzy is not a jumper.

I would have thought was all the rain and humidity that Izzy would have no interest in being out of the AC. But Steph and Gen walked her for a good while and even met me at the bus stop on my way home from class. She definitely has more energy.

Running Around with Mr. Smith -- Day 31

2009-07-01T23:02:00.004-04:00

It is getting hot and humid, but Izzy makes it to the park every morning. And we end up staying for a while. She loves to meet and greet all her friends. (and flirt if there are handsome boys We walked with Suzie, Sweetie Pie and Izzy 2. When Denise was giving out treats Izzy threw herself in that mix but did turn her nose up at the dry food. Denise used to have to hunt Izzy down to give her treats, so this is a big change in her.

She got chicken today, for both meals. Warmed up, of course. She did get some chicken treats. She so loves them!

Erin fed her dinner around 4pm and later Lisa picked her up to hang out with Mr. Smith as we had dinner. Lisa said that Izzy was so funny, laying on her side, expecting chicken to be fed to her like grapes. Oh, if only I had a picture! She acts so royal!

When I showed up Izzy raced down the stairs with Smithers, greeted me, and went back up them. Lisa lives in a 3rd floor walk up, and Izzy, in the past, has struggled with the second flight of stairs. It was not a problem today. AND then Izzy and Smithers played around the living room. Izzy even started it. When we got home she got her red devil ball (the rubber toys with horns and feet) and wanted to play more. In the winter I would not be so surprised about this, but this is JULY. She does not usually act so playful in the hote humid months.

One other thing that I noticed is that she is drinking less water. Normally in the summer, her big water bowl would be almost empty at the end of the day. I wonder if it is because she is getting more water from the food. Not sure.

Walkin with Ben and Sweetie Pie -- Day 30

2009-06-30T22:38:00.002-04:00

So we had a great walk in the park with Ben and Sweetie Pie. It was a warm day but Izzy was a trooper and even got her flirt on with a couple boys. She does lay down in the shade/cool grass whenever I pause for a moment, but that is much better than planting her feet and refusing to go on (which she has done in the past.) We even stayed extra long, she was probably out for almost 2 hours this morning.

She had chicken and chicken today and even topped it off with some chicken treats. She never seems to tire of the chicken. Erin is feeding Izzy her dinner earlier (around 4) after their walk and Izzy seems better for it. Not hungry when I get home and is satisfied having a chicken treat while I ate diner.

I forgot to mention over the weekend that Izzy ignored my mom when we were home, which is totally out of the ordinary. Normally Izzy gives my mom lots of love. My mom is blaming it on her new diet. LOL!

Back to Brooklyn -- Day 29

2009-06-29T22:45:00.000-04:00

I tried something different this Baltimore trip and left at 3:30am to come back to Brooklyn. Izzy slept the whole ride, except for the one picture. When we got back (which took extra long due to an accident on the bridge) Izzy got her breakfast and her walk. She pooed, as she did last night. I think that is a reflection of the extra treats outside her diet.

Her dog walker, Erin, gave Izzy her dinner at 4pm. Let's see how eating an earlier dinner works for her!

Old Friends -- Day 28

2009-06-28T21:37:00.000-04:00

Today I took Izzy to visit our old neighborhood where she grew up. We were going to take a walk with her best friend, Anna, and Maire Paule, her person. We had not been back in over a year and Izzy could not have been more thrilled. She ran up the hill and all around with Ann and Callie. Hen we took a walk around the old neighborhood. The only noticeable difference with Izzy was that she did not try to chase all the bunnies we saw, which was a relief to me and my back.

Izzy did get a little spoiled by Marie Paule. But she was actually picky about the treats and oy ate the chicken treats that she was given. We sat outside and had brunch and Izzy did not beg at all. She had beefheart for breakfast.

That evening we went to my parents for dinner and Izzy had her chicken. We had to feed her separately from Elmo so he did not go after her food. Dad did give her a little chicken, but that was all. I don't know if she was begging for it, but think not.

Dad says her poo still smelled.

A Weekend in Baltimore -- Day 27

2009-06-27T18:26:00.003-04:00

Our first weekend traveling with ScooterFood.

I prepared with frozen containers of a weekend's amount of food, ice packs and my insulated bag. It worked perfectly! But did require forethought.

The weekend trip was to Baltimore to see the fam and some grooming. I dropped Izzy at the groomers on the way into Baltimore and went to the salon myself. Note the shiney coat in the photos.

Izzy ate beefheart (cutting back a little), for both breakfast and dinner. I think she is hungry sometimes. Izzy is not normally a begger but over the weekend she definitely tried to hit me and my dad for food. She did not go after my parent's dog, Elmo's food. But he is food possessive.

TGIF Day 26

2009-06-26T19:34:00.000-04:00

Yay Friday! And beef hearts! I had to get to work early, but we still made it to the park. No short changin the Izzy on her walks.

This was a quiet day. She was feisty when I got home, but Erin had already fed her. No poo yet today, but we still have our last walk to go.

Haircut tomorrow for Izzy!

Where's the Poop? Day 25

2009-06-25T19:28:00.000-04:00

OK, so definitely noticed a major difference with Izzy. She used to be a 2 poo a day. Now, it is like 36 hours between.

On Thursdays I have class after work. Our friend Lisa is nice enough to take Izzy out in the evening. Apparently, she had a 2 bag poo, with little stink. ANd Lisa can tell you, it really used to stink.

Izzy had beef hearts for dinner, chicken for breakfast.

Due to the lack of weight loss, Izzy is not getting treats, and her walker, Erin, is feeding her dinner (so it is at 3-4pm insteade of 8-9M when I get home from work.) Erin is nice enough to warm it up for her, like she likes. This was our first day of early dinner. She does not seem pressed for anything when I get home, so that is a good thing. We take our last walk and go to bed.

Happy Birthday Izzy -- Day 24

2009-06-24T22:22:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to Izzy! Izzy turns 7 today. My little girl is growing up.

How amazing that our friends gave Izzy birthday gifts at the dog park that morning! How lucky Izzy and I are to have such wonderful and thoughtful friends.

So needless to say, there was a little over-indulgence today! Izzy did get her regular ScooterFood for breakfast and dinner and just a few (understatement) extra treats.

Lamb lung

Doggie eclaire (don't tell Lisa but she buried a part in the sofa)

super yummy big rawhide

Not terrible, but...

Anyhow even with all those extras, no poo. It was Izzy's gift to me.

A Disappointing Weigh-In -- Day 23

2009-06-23T23:08:00.001-04:00

So the moment of truth came on Sunday when I took Izzy to the vet and weighed her. It was quite a surprise. As much as we have seen the changes in her, the loose skin, the smaller belly, the increased energy; she has not lost a pound. She is still at 77 pounds.

So we had a talk with ScooterFood creator, Michelle, and will be making some changes that we will put in place after her birthday tomorrow. More to come on this.

She did eat her warmed up chicken for breakfast and dinner. She loves it warm. I do not know if it is the smell or the beep of the microwave that gets her up, but it works everytime.

A cool thing happened today -- her poop did not SMELL! It was small, firm and pretty much stink free! It is a miracle!

Alone Again Naturally -- Day 22

2009-06-22T19:31:00.000-04:00

Well we are back to a single dog household. and I think she loves that she gets all my attention again! Me too1

It was chicken today. I heated it up both times and I think she really likes it that way. Otherwise she had a couple chicken treats, a little rawhide and we are about to head out for our night walk.

Day 21

2009-06-21T20:59:00.000-04:00

Oh, the rain! could it please stop? We did not make it to the park because of the misty rain that was coming down.

But it did not stop Izzy from chowing on her chicken. She gobbled it up. I was worried that maybe her fast eating was because of Izzy 2's presence. But she left this afternoon, and Izzy still scarfed down her beef hearts for dinner. Today's picture is Izzy licking her lips as she atte. I thought it was too cute!

Anyhow, she is definitely pooping less. Almost once a day.

More Rain and Humidity -- Day 20

2009-06-20T21:50:00.001-04:00

So the Izzies forgot that I had the Scooter snacks in my bag after we left the park. They were totally dragging their feet because of the humidity so I showed them the treats about 2 blocks from the apartment and they perked up like you wouldn't believe! I broker them in half once home so tht they could enjoy them longer. I don't think that Izzy 2 even chewed hers but Izzy savored every bite!

Today Izzy got beef hearts both meals. I warmed it up and she raced over to the bowl to scarf it down. I will try that more.

Izzy has been a trooper in this huidity and rain. Her coat is a little frizzy like my hair but what else can you do in this continuous rain?

A Little Jealousy -- Day 19

2009-06-19T22:38:00.001-04:00

I think Izzy 2 is getting jealous of the ScooterFood Izzy gets every day. I noticed after they finish their meal Izzy just goes about her way, but Izzy 2 checks it for any leftovers! So cute!

So it was beef for breakfast and salmon for dinner. She did get a couple chicken treats and a rawhide after dinner. I know, I know. Rawhides are all carbs, but sometimes I think she wants to chew something. I am giving her a larger quantity of food in the morning, maybe a pound and less at night, especially on the nights when we have a late dinner (most nights...) Izzy seems totally ok with that, but she has never been a food motivated dog.

A Very Wet Izzy -- Day 18

2009-06-18T21:11:00.002-04:00

The day started with a pretty long walk in the rain. We did our 3 mile loop to the park and came back soaked. I tried to take some pictures of Izzy wet so that you could see that waistline!

She gobbled up her beef heart this morning and this evening (sans dry food). I worry that she still might be hungry, but she never acts it.

Both Izzies did get some chicken treats in the morning, and a little rawhide stick in the evening. She sometimes acts like she needs something to chew (besides all the grass that she eats on the way to the park.)

Feisty and Fish -- Day 17

2009-06-17T22:03:00.005-04:00

An hour and a half walk in the morning and Salmon. Does the day get any better than this?

Today was the first day without dry food. While Izzy was not very interested in food this morning, she gobbled it all down (minus a couple of vegetables) this evening. She is feisty and full of flirt when it comes to the boy dogs.

She is definitely getting feisty about her photos these days. Does not want to stand still at all. She is pooping less.

Tummy Upset -- Day 16

2009-06-16T21:47:00.000-04:00

Izzy is out sick today. They used pesticide in the park today and maybe Izzy chomped on some grass that she shouldn't have.

Not much interest in any food, but the Izzies both got a rawhide that evening which seemed to make them very happy.

(I guess in all the craziness, I forgot to take her picture.)

Izzy #2 Visits -- Day 15

2009-06-15T20:36:00.001-04:00

It was a good thing we drove to the park this morning, because even with that, we got rained on twice. Hence, the super fluffy fur in the photo.

Today was beef day. She liked it so much that she spit out her dry food.

She still likes her chicken treats, so she gets a couple in the morning. But otherwise it is beef hearts and veggies with just a little bit of dry food.

I am not sure if her extra perkiness is due to competitiveness with Izzy #2 or her new diet.

Stealing from Mr. Smith -- Day 14

2009-06-14T21:10:00.000-04:00

It was a warm and sunny sunday! Izzy and Izzy2 went to the dog run in Brooklyn Heights. Izzy ran around with a lab and a golden and had a great time.

Today was chicken for breakfast and beef for dinner. We went over to Lisa and Mr. Smith's for dinner. I made sure that Izzy ate before we went over, but she tried to eat his food. I guess another dog's food is always better than their own.

Here is a picture of Izzy's favorite spot, chilling in front of her fan.

Izzy savors a Scooter Treat -- Day 13

2009-06-13T14:47:00.004-04:00

This is Izzy eating her favorite Scooter Treat. She savors every bite and keeps a watchful eye for any other dogs. She is very protective of her treats. It took her over 2 minutes to eat this one treat.

We saw a friend today, who had not seen Izzy in over a month. He commented that she looked thinner, especially around her butt. Yay Izzy!

Smaller Butt -- Day 12

2009-06-12T22:44:00.001-04:00

So Izzy 2 (the other Izzy at the dog park) is staying with us for a week. And Izzy is not going to share a lick of her food. Izzy is normally not a food possessive dog. Izzy would share just about everything. But lately we are discovering that she will not share her ScooterSnacks either. She guarded her bowl.

Today was chicken. She does not seem to get tired of it. It is getting warmer out, so both Izzies walked through every puddle in the park.

She had a couple chicken treats today, plus her breakfast and dinner of 1/2 cup dry and 1/2 pound SF. It seems to be enough.

Less Belly! Day 11

2009-06-11T20:11:00.005-04:00

Again, Izzy spit out her dry food. Today it was mixed with beef hearts with veggies (no beets). She loved it. Scarfed it down, only pausing to spit out the dry food.

There was a ring of it around her bowl. I left it alone, when I left for work, to see if she would come back and eat them. She did.

Super humid again today, but made it to the park and back. I am still impressed with how well she is managing this humidity.

The top photo is Izzy today. The bottom one is from 10 days ago. Definitely less belly!

Humidity Makes Her Hair Curl -- Day 10

2009-06-10T22:04:00.002-04:00

Look carefully at the photo. No, it is not a vegetable! There is a piece of dry kibble next to the bowl. Yes, Izzy spit out her dry food to gobble the ScooterFood faster!

Izzy loves the chicken.

The humidity is starting to get to Izzy. No problem doing the mile+ to the park, but she is dragging on the way back. Honestly I am surprised how well she has been holding up in this humidity. Her fur cost is pretty dense, even with regular grooming.

Her poops are getting smaller and firmer. Most days it is still 2x a day, but today it was not.

Izzy Has a Waist! Day 9

2009-06-09T22:55:00.000-04:00

Yes, a clearly defined waist.

Same food as yesterday! and a couple chicken treats.

She did not want to leave the park in the morning and because of it, we barely made it in the door before the downpour started.

Who cares! Izzy has a waist!

Less Dry More SF--Day 8

2009-06-08T21:48:00.002-04:00

So we switched it up and decreased the dry!

Chicken in the morning and beef hearts in the evening. Each with a 1/2 cup dry.

Gobbled it up both times, all of it except an unsmooshed carrot. Which she left right next to her bowl.

It was such a humid day that I did not think she would make the 3 mile walk to the park, around, and back. But we got there (after eating every stalk of grass on Flushing) and she ven ran around and played. I think the girl's got more energy.

She did get a couple chicken treats...

Chicken is the Best! Day 7

2009-06-07T22:03:00.005-04:00

Sunday was Izzy's favorite day -- Chicken!

Scarfed down her breakfast and her dinner. Decreased the dry to about 1/2 cup. She was happy!

She got a couple chicken treats, and a rawhide (I know, bad me!) I made sure it was a small one. She was just so feisty and kept scratching at that cabinet....

Today was the first not soft poo. I couldn't believe it! solid, solid as a rock. but three poops today. Only the 2nd and 3rd were the solid ones.

She was not standing for her picture today so here's one of her laying down. (Please note scarf change. Izzy goes with her moods.)

Izzy on Day Six

2009-06-06T19:59:00.003-04:00

BEAUTIFUL Saturday! And Izzy had a super busy day!

It started with a walk in Prospect Park, then a walk up to McCarren Park to check out the regenade craft fair. Izzy was a trooper on such a warm day. She got a few pieces of chicken treats on her walk, plus lots of attention at the fair.

Interestingly, she was not at all interested in liver and vegetables. Maybe it was the heat, but after not eating her breakfast, and not interested in her dinner, I fixed her up chicken ScooterFood with dry, which she gobbled up.

We both were out at like 9pm. and had a great sleep.

Izzy on Day Five

2009-06-05T20:50:00.002-04:00

Beef hearts and beets day!

What a rainy day? Short walks and getting toweled dried. Izzy favorite!

So her breakfast was 1/2 pound beef hearts and beets and 2/3 cup dry. She gobbled it up except for the one piece of beef heart that kept appearing on different places on my rug. I kept returning it to her bowl, until I finally stepped on it. UGH!

She was feisty all day! She did get a couple chicken treats and a small chew. And ate her dinner of the same.

Izzy on Day Four

2009-06-04T22:03:00.001-04:00

6.04.09 was chicken day, Izzy's favorite. Could she eat it faster or messier?

Same quantity for breakfast and dinner (1/2 pound chicken with 2/3 cup dry). She loved it.

She was obstinate on the morning walk. Did not matter how hard it was raining, she wanted to get to the park. Luckily running into Mr. Smith distracted her.

She had an enormous poo in the morning and a small one in the evening. Still soft, but not terrible. Lisa said it was super stinky.

She is very interested in what treats she can find on the streets these days. I think there is more food on the street due to the warmer weather.

Izzy on Day Three

2009-06-03T21:52:00.005-04:00

Day 3 - beef heart and beets.

So Izzy is definitely not a fan of beets, but loves the beef hearts. She ate half a pound this morning with 2/3 cup dry and the other half this evening with the same dry. I cannot tell if she is hungry or not because she does not beg for food.

She is definitely more playful. She wanted to play this morning and again this evening. It is adorable. As I type this, she is laying on the floor with her rabbit.

She had 1 enormous poop this morning and only 2 blocks from home, which is unusual. She usually waits for the park. (But she did not poo last night, so that is probably why.)

P.S. Found some beets on my carpet -- Persian, so difficult to see! Luckily I didn't step in them.

Izzy on Day Two

2009-06-02T20:20:00.004-04:00

Today was Liver with Veggies and quinoa. Izzy did not eat her breakfast of 1/2 pound liver with 2/3 cup dry when I left for work. It was gone when I got home though and she did scarf up the remainder of the pound with 1/2 cup dry.

No poop at the park tonight but she did go twice this morning. Second one was liquidy.

She did spit out the tomatoes, which might be somewhere on my carpet and I can't see them yet. Ugh!

Izzy on Day One

2009-06-02T19:30:00.019-04:00

Breakfast -- 1 cup of dry food with half a pound of chicken and vegetables.

Izzy spit some of the dry food out, but made sure she got every bit of the ScooterFood.

Snack -- 1 and 1/4 ScooterSnack at the park. YUMMY! and she had 2 pieces of dried chicken treats. NO rawhides!

She is happy and peppy!

Who is Izzy

2009-05-31T16:15:00.004-04:00

Izzy is a beautiful, sassy mixed breed. She will be 7 this month (her birthday is coming up!). She loves boys, pugs and laying in water.

Her specialty maneuver is the Izzy Butt Roundhouse which she bestows on the boys she particularly likes.

Izzy has just one problem -- she's a bit overweight. So, before the extra weight starts to give her joints problems, Izzy is switching to a new home-cooked food called ScooterFood.

It's a little experiment. Let's see if she will lose weight on this fresh, natural, dog food, without going hungry or resorting to "prescription" foods.