Saturday, June 21, 2008

Boys weekend!

Mom is in Idaho for a few days cheering on my #1 blog fan, Anathea as she competes in Ironman Coeur D'Alene. So it's just us boys at home. Don't think we're relaxing on the couch with pizza, beer, and action movies. Mom let some workouts for me to do and she's been calling in to make sure we're done.

Good Luck, Anathea. We'll be cheering for you from here.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Cross training

Today was a day for cross training. We all headed up to Michaux State Forest to do a little hiking. While I didn't discover that I was an aquatic machine until later in my life, I've been hiking since I was a pup. In fact, if there's one thing I was born to do, it'd be hiking. Not only do I get my exercise in, but I'm free to roam without the torture devices and leashes of city life.

I'm the guide dog. I lead the pack and clear the trail of dangers like squirrels, chipmunks, deer (which require chasing off trail), and the occasional snake. My mileage is usually double that of the humans since I have a strict "no hiker left behind" policy. I run just far enough ahead before turning around to make sure everyone's on their way. Here's some footage of me heading back to do a sweep.




We did a 6.1 mile loop. You might note the odd shape of the loop. That loop at the top wasn't really supposed to happen. I took over navigating duties after that mishap.



After the hike, we stopped by the reservoir for a little swimming. I was pooped, so it was short.



Shout out to Big Al. Despite his age, his fluff, and his lack of base fitness, he toughed it out with only a few on trail protests.





Edit to Add: We got doggy ice cream when we got home. yum!

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Really, why have I been training?

I got all the info and rules for the race today. Under Run Procedures, it says the following. . .

Wagons, skateboards and other transportation methods may be used to assist the canine
competitor during the run. However, any team that does anything but use a total of 6 legs to complete the race will not be eligible to win.


Really?!? You mean I could be pulled for 10km. I think mom might have something like this in mind.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

I am not to blame for the dog days of summer

Heck, it's not even summer yet. What happened to spring? It was 98 degrees here today. That requires a lot of panting. I played it smart and hit the pool for a training swim. Then, it was inside and A/C for me.

I might need to check out some electrolyte replacement. If Tiger Woods has his own drink, why not me?

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Deja Vu

I ran the same route as yesterday, but today with Mom (and no rain). That brings my weekly mileage up to just over 13 miles (not including walks). I think I deserve an ice cream for that.

Toy Review: Slobber-wick Squeakless

I got a new toy today. It's the Planet Dog Slobber-wick Squeakless.



First, why wouldn't you want a squeaker? How am I going to get people's attention when they are talking on the phone, reading, watching tv, etc? Second, are they trying to tell me something about slobbering? I'm an athlete and I need to be well hydrated. Perhaps, sometimes a little too much. That being said I gave the toy a try.



Notice my brother's complete lack of interest. Never a good sign. If another dog doesn't want your toy than you probably don't want it either. Not true in this case, despite it's quiet nature, I actually like the toy. It has good mouth feel and the wicking is nice. It's also a good size for carrying around the house. The problem - durability.

Time elapsed - 15 minutes.


True, it's been said that I'm hard on toys. Alas, I continue my quest for the perfect indestructible stuffed toy.

Overall, a good toy for a light chewer.