Maggie say's Gunner Gunner Gunner...

Living in my house right now is like watching Ferris Bueller's Day Office movie. My sister Maggie is very jealous that I got to go to the ER Vet on Friday, Saturday and the big Vet yesterday.

So much so that she is pouting and giving My Mommy a very hard time. She is misbehaving and acting out. I am trying to comfort Maggie and let her know it's because I am sick right now. She isn't having any of it, she is angry! So... Mom bought her a new baby to sleep with and I gave it a lick, I am hoping my sister gets over being jealous, I luff her very much and I don't like to see her upset.

Signed the favorite son...

Gunner xoxoxo

Gunner update Oct 27 2015

Last known was Gunner went to vet on Saturday. They diagnosed him with a Mass on his Bladder and a UTI and Bladder infection. Sent him home with antibiotics and no other treatment plan.

Regular Vet's were both out of town, spoke to one and we had a small idea to just go with the antibiotics and let me the Mom make some choices.

The little voices in my head that tell me what to do or not to do spoke loudly. NO one is addressing this Mass issue.

I made the appointment with the Bulldog Expert Vet and off we went. Gunner has a severely enlarged Prostrate and has some other issues involving that. He requires surgery within 30 days. No Mass found on either Sonogram and X-rays.

I won't get negative only to say this; IF YOU HAVE A GUT FEELING GO WITH IT!! I read a few posts that said to me that I was over-reacting. It's my dog, my life, my checkbook and my way!!!!!

Thankfully my doubting saved his life.

Please keep my buckethead baby in your prayers please.

Love to all!!!

Gunner, Maggie and Kym

Sincere Thank you from the Gunner family

First and foremost I would like to say a very sincere Thank you to all our twitter and facebook friends. This has been a trying time with Gunner. I want to thank you all individually because you mean that much to us. You rallied around us with prayers and thoughts when we needed it most. I truly appreciate my prayer warriors.

I am going to post a second update on Gunner in a few minutes, but we all really love each of you and thank you from the bottoms of our paws!!!!

Gunner's sick

Friday afternoon Gunner began acting a little offish. When he would walk he would slink down like a cougar and take deliberate steps. He ate fine, but was not acting right. Later that evening he was acting strange and had zero energy (which is a huge red flag).

We decided not to ignore it and head to an ER Vet. Our vet is on vacay and our other doesn't do after hours. We load Gunner up in the car and began to travel to the ER Vet. To our surprise they are not open and we panic. We head to the second one and they are closed. At this point Gunner is booping around and acting very normal. We call a third one and they say come in, it's 1 am by this time, and he is full steam back to normal.

Through the night he slept well, I checked him every hour on the hour. Saturday morning, I had duty and he was home with the dad. Gunner wouldn't eat. By 1145 he was much worse, and I was not home. I send them packing to the vet but they get in a traffic jam. I leave duty and head out to meet them. We finally arrive at a Vet ER Clinic and begin our wait.

Immediately the vet is stumped, but knows something isn't right. After some nudging from me, I get him to do a full exam and he discovers a Mass in Gunner's bladder. They ask for a urine sample and they will do a blood panel, and they will do an x-ray if I want one. I did ask if they had to put him out for the x-ray and he said no.

The Vet tech was unable to get a urine sample so I got one for them, and that test came back off the charts high. The blood work was high for low white cells and his alkaline was high, as was his sugar. The Vet excused the Vet Tech and asked me to assist him with another examination since the Tech wasn't very experienced. With Gunner being in tact (still has his jigglies) I think the Vet was hoping it was that, however, his prostrate was clear. I felt the Mass he referred to and I believe it needs an expert review, however, ER Vet wasn't sure. He opted not to do the x-ray for some reason.

At the conclusion, Gunner's temp was elevated, his white cells and levels were high, and he decided the best course of action is antibiotics. We take him home and he won't walk, sit up, or move at all. I give him the antibiotic immediately and try and feed him. He will not eat at all, nor drink much.

I freeze Cranberry juice in ice cube trays for later to keep him hydrated and it's good for UTIs. Later I try to feed him again and he will not eat. I am scared since he had a pill he needs something in his belly, so I scramble him some eggs and give him cranberry juice cubes.

Gunner goes to sleep after being so down right sick, I had to rock him for 2 hours and he finally went to bed. He was up most of the night and not sleeping very well. This morning he is still out of it, and not feeling great, but I did get him to eat dog food and drink water and a cube of cranberry juice. He is slowly walking on his own and moving a bit more, but it's not over by any means.

Gunner was not given any pain medication at all, and I am not one to self medicate so I am trying all kinds of home remedies, such as heat and ice, fluids and tons of kisses. That seems to be his favorite. He avoided Maggie until just 3 minutes ago, but is still not all over her like usual.

Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. We are going to try to see Dr. B in the morning, and hope that everything is fine. I will update if need be.

There is a nip in the air...

We are loving the little bit of coolness in the air. Plus Mommy is baking and cooking this morning. I guess you could call her an old fashioned kind of girl. One that knows how to cook, knows what to wear, and when it's time to call it a day.

We are tasting lots of great things today. Plus little paw muffins are in the oven.

Happy Brisk Columbus Day.

Fall is in the slight air...

Happy Fall time my friends... I want to do a quick Public Service Announcement and then some fun info after that...

With all the wet and rain everyone has, October is bringing out a lot of mushrooms... Read this about mushrooms. I'll wait... go here...Mushrooms click here

With that said please please take an extra moment to check your yard or your favorite watering hole - haha I said watering hole.


Now for the fun stuff....

October is a great month! Very busy, but a great month. Halloween is just around the corner and then the holidays will be here before we know it.

We were not going to do a Halloween party this year because we didn't think anyone would want to do one. However, Mom has some serious swag she has to get rid of. I mean really get rid of. My closet looks like a Bulldog Gift Shop.  So we are thinking if anyone is interested, they can let Mommy know via twitter or here she will put the swag up as prizes.

Happy Fall Everyone!!!

Gunner and Maggie

Gunner love - Mommy author

It is no secret how much I love Gunner. Once he was in my life I was smitten to say the least. Truly I believe he was a gift from God, as was Maggie. Gunner has been many things in my life. At times I have to pinch myself and remember he is not of the human kind, but of the Canine flavor. I am sure you have clicked off by now saying "oh boy Gunner Gunner Gunner"...

Gunner is the most sensitive caring dog I have ever had. From the time he was 11 weeks old we watched videos online of other bulldogs. At 12 weeks he started a music appreciation class that we still do today. Night time rituals include Mommy love and story time. When Mommy is not home, she calls and face times him. Please do not call the men in white jackets, they have already certified that I am nutsocoocoo.

From the first group meetup at 16 weeks, Gunner would not hump or bother other dogs. He would play and run but would give each dog their space. When a fight would break out, you would find Gunner in the middle separating the fighters. To say he is dog polite might be odd. Our lives have consisted of mutual love and admiration.

When Maggie came into the house I was very concerned his feelings would be hurt. She is his sister and needed some extra love after losing her Mommy of 3 years. At first they did not get along too well. I was really hard on Gunner, I accepted nothing less than his being polite and loving. I spoke to other bulldog families that had a girl and boy dog, seeking some insight. Fortunately I ignored the comments that would say "they will be fine" Being fine with no intervention is a recipe for disaster. So I knew I had some real work ahead of me. Gunner is a sensitive soul. You never have to punish him for something because he knows what he did. My solution was; I applied some tried and true behavioral methods and within 2 weeks my fears of them not getting along were long gone.

Gunner amazes me daily with his kindness. I wish two legged people were as kind and loving as Gunner.  He always waits for Maggie to start eating first, for her to go through the door first, for her to get treats first, and has really given up so much of Gunner's things to her. With all that kindness I cannot let him be left out. That is why we have double of everything. I do keep certain things just for Gunner.

With all this love and admiration I feel the need to share it. Gunner has the heart I wish I had. He has the ability to listen and forgive. His love of protection and family goes without saying. While he has some personality quirks that make me wonder if I gave birth to him, he means the world to me.

I find that when I am struggling, he is there. I talk to him as a human and he seems to understand what I am saying. When I am tweeting or watching a video, he is right beside me over my shoulder. To say that dogs do not understand, I would strongly disagree. Put Rocco's little sister on a video and Gunner comes out of his room to watch. If he see's Henry and Collins picture he slightly puts his cheek to her. Until the prior Flood, he had all his friends pictures on his wall, he would lay under different ones during the day, as if he were visiting them.

Think I am crazy, that's ok. I am truly blessed with two very special bulldogs that fill my heart with love. In a world of negatives and jealousy, I find complete comfort knowing my two are what's right with this world.

I love you Gunner more than you know, and I love you Maggie with my soul.

Sick sick sick - Mommy author

Gunner is sick. Not sure what has gotten into him, but he has some stomach issues.  Gunner is not a typical bulldog, he does not pass gas like most bulldogs. As a matter of fact, Maggie is the gasser in the house. When Gunner expresses gas, he gets upset. It really offends him.

So that started the belly issues, and then he began throwing up. We are on the mend and hopefully he is better for this weekend. Daddy is babysitting us the next 2 days. Hope for the best...

Poorly bellies all around

We have been a bit sickly since Monday. We ate some cheese slices and Mommy thinks it hurt our bellies. Maggie and I had some belly issues. Even the Mommy had some too.

It was a great excuse to stay close to Mommy and snuggle up. Today is New Toy Tuesday and we are very much looking forward to that!

I hear Mommy rattling around in the kitchen, I think she is preparing an early breakfast treat for Daddy and us. She cannot sleep when we are sick. Poor sister Mags had the flashlight in her face about 8 times through the night. Me on the other hand, well I probably slept through that...

Let's hope the gingerale we sipped and the pumpkin makes us all feel better.

Gunner and Maggie

We wake up in separate rooms. Somehow we find ourselves in the same room and the same spot trying to get Mommy's attention. We roll around and wrestle until the loud voice sounds and we have to stop. Our days are filled with love and joy.

Today we get to play with new friends and visit the new house. We want to give it our paws of approval. However, last night we saw the bakery items being delivered so this could only mean TASTE TESTING.

Our Gunner bars and Maggie Muffins are a real treat for us. I hope Mom makes them after our busy day.

Happy First Day of Fall!!!!

Tomorrow is Fall.. Our favorite time of the year.

Hello friends - tomorrow is the first day of Fall and we couldn't be more excited. We hope for cooler nights (haha in Florida) and we cannot wait for the pumpkin and apple treats.

With Halloween only a month away we were thinking of what we should be for Halloween. Over the last three years we have hosted a costume party online. However, this year we are going to let someone else do it.

The Twitter parties were great and all the fun we had. I hope someone else picks up the party. If not, maybe next year we will do it. But this this year we are stepping off...

So on to the Fall fun... Cannot wait for Oktoberfest and Mommy's big party.

Raising parents is a tough job

I have two parents. One Mom and One Dad. I had a second Dad but he was kind of part-time. My parents use to be married to each other. So I am from a broken family. Oh don't pity me, I reap the benefits of sad eyes and constant reminders of how I am from a broken home.

However, I recently realized I am raising them. Each night I have to tell them to go to bed. I cannot just let them stay up to all hours of the night, they have work in the morning and we all need our sleep. I also have to remind them to clean up the house. I have to trick them a bit by moving all the covers and furniture around, but it usually gets them in the groove of mopping, vacuuming and straightening up my toys.

Just tonight I had to tell them it was time for them to have their evening snack, I barked at the fridge until they fed me pretzels. I was really doing it for their own good.

Raising parents is hard work. I just don't know how the older people did it.

Gunner

How do you know you're old? By the Mommy

Guest writer: The Mommy...

I use to hear stories as a kid, when I was your age, we would do or say this. I use to think those old people... Today while reflecting on 9/11 and snuggling with the dogs, I began to think about life in general. I pulled out Alan Jackson's song and video of Remember When and then it hit me... I am freaking old. I am that old person.

So I thought about the things said today and what they meant in MY day...

Dope = meant they were stupid.

Sick = duh sick as in ill

Fly = bug

Coke = soda

Whip = a whip you used on a horse or a naughty date

Down with that = Something was down, as in you put it down

A solid = solid foods?

Props = extra items in a movie

Chill = it was cold

So here it is, I am freaking old. Ready for the horse farm or something. While I take my dope sick fly self in my whip, I give props to my ride or die for a solid, I am down wit that anytime...

Translated.... get a hobby, ebonics is not for you...

Folks it's a sad world today...

Tomorrow is an anniversary that we shouldn't forget, but hate to remember... Our world was rocked, our safety and security were shattered. I can remember exactly where I was when it happened. I was working at a Law Firm and someone said OMG look. When the second tower was hit, I first thought it was a replay, but realized I was watching it live. My heart pounded and my mind raced for what could only happen.

I had a very special man in my life in the military, and he was en-route to the Pentagon or so I thought. No way to confirm, no way to contact him. Thankfully his trip was canceled during the middle of the night and he was spared. But so many weren't.

The guilt I felt for his safety was over-whelming. I was numb. I couldn't even imagine. I went home and put my pjs on. I curled up on the couch and cried. I walked around like I was in a daze. Our President was in town when this happened and all the craziness of his leaving and the area we live in was a mess.

Flights were on lock-down. Military bases were under strict security and I couldn't talk to my guy. He was "in meetings"...

Tomorrow is a day I wish to forget, but cannot do so because of the loved ones that lost their family members. I will ask that you hug a little tighter, and you pay it forward just once.

We will be off line all day in remembrance, and hope that our world get's their head on straight and something changes... 

Surfing facebook and find a puppy?

So Friday morning as Mommy was getting ready to pull out of town to the shore, she spots bulldog puppies on her friends facebook page. The friend is a friend of a breeder outside of the Philly area. Mommy starts oohhing and ahhhing and her friend calls their friend and they talk about the puppies. Mommy tries to get breeder to friend her so she can see and show all the puppy pictures. Breeder won't do that, as if????

Mommy leaves for the shore and the visit at the Coast Guard and by telephone is talking all day about these puppies. Mommy likes Doc and thinks he is the cutest. He is 4 weeks old and by Oct 1 he should be old enough to come home.

Over the weekend the calls and texts are weird, breeder is concerned Mommy is a broker. Is she would just friend Mommy she would see; she is just a nut case, not a broker and is not going to sell the dog. Sunday the questions get strange and breeder is now calling puppies "old english bulldogs" Mommy assumes it's because she is clueless.

Then Monday Mommy goes in for the kill, asks for the pedigree and what time Tuesday can she pick the puppy and pay for him. The calls and texts stop abruptly and Mommy is banned or whatever it is facebook does. AND facebook sends Mommy a harassing email notice.

The price was low, that was for certain, but now we are so confused and upset. Maybe bulldogs up there are cheaper, although I doubt it.

We have a French Bulldog puppy owed to us, so it wasn't just a dog thing, Mommy loved the little guys face and sort of felt he needed a good home.

NOT a dog posting... Rant

In order not to have my head detach and fly into the sky, I must vent. If you are reading for bulldog humor, skip this one.

Why oh why do people have to steal each others thunder? Lie and cheat to get quasi recognition for a job/duty/idea they did not come up with.

I have worked long and hard only to have someone just copycat it and lie/cheat/steal to make it theirs. Life is way too short for the drama that happens in life. I might turn into a Trump and brand every single thing I do.

Color me annoyed and with this line of thinking, I am seriously hoping for retribution. 

What is certain ... nothing is certain...

We woke up today feeling sad about our buddy Cooper. His loss hit home because he is a positive pup, you know?

Then we watched tv and saw the horrific shooting in Virginia of the newscasters. What wasn't disclosed was the interviewee Vicki Gardner who was rushed to surgery for gun shot wounds to her back. She is a friend of my Mom's long time school friend.

Then we go on about our day and our tiniest visitor leaves us today for medical treatment. We are really unsure of this world we live in. We try not to wear our religion on our sleeve, but we are really asking God above for peace and understanding. We try to live our lives to the fullest, with no regrets, but we have discovered while sobbing in the hospital parking lot, we have a lot of regrets. That is why brings us to "what is certain, nothing is certain"... Losing loved ones, friendships, relationships, business deals, money, opportunity, mother time, you name it we have regretted it today.

Please forgive us while we bow out of society and curl up on the couch with re-runs of Andy Griffith and listen to songs that have a sweet message.

We love our friends and we hope this madness stops...

R.I.P. Cooper

Another buddy went over Rainbow Bridge today. The family is struggling for sure. Each of our friends mean something special to us. Cooper made us laugh with his wheely stories. While each have a distinct personality it always amazed me how much he did while being in a wheel-cart.

Please know that each and every one of our furry friends means the world to us. When one suffers or is ill, we all are right there with them. Time is so valuable, it's so sad we all have so little time on planet earth.

The summer is almost over....

As we looked at the calendar it hit us, the summer is almost over. While we are used to the heat by now, we are counting down the days until we can have below 85 degree weather. Mom longs for the smell of fall, the pumpkin and Cinnamon aroma's in the house. We are changing out our decor from beachy turquoise to fall warm colors. Today Mommy and Maggie went on a girls trip shopping. The furniture place (thank you Haverty's) is allowing Mommy to bring Mags in so she can measure the chairs we are getting. Plus, the decorating lady had some prints for Mommy so they had a lunch date at Besa and off to shop they went. Mags is tired now.

The calendar also signifies new beginnings... college kids heading back to school or starting school. Teachers reporting for duty, school buses back on the road and we are on a plan to move. Hopefully before Halloween. I want a new neighborhood to trick or treat in.

We have a new hooman baby in the house and as much fun as Deuce, Beckett, Magoo and Hobie make it look like fun, we are not fans Mags and I. We do like the nice lady that makes the milk bottles in the middle of the night, she seems to think we need treats too, so that is a plus. But the baby smells, and cry's really are not conducive to bulldog living. I saw that human baby in my Mom's bed and I will not tolerate that.

Our Bulldog and Breakfast is going to need a bigger foot print, we have guests a coming, and we need a place to put them.

Hurry up fall, we are ready for you!!!

Why does everything schedule on the same day????

For months and months the get-together for Sam has been planned. People who live close-by checked their availability, and we were pretty good to go. The dates were marked, no issues right? Airline tickets purchased (Mom) Hotel, Rental car, and swag bags started.

Even though Mommy was kicking and screaming once she realized the week Sam choose. breath...

Suddenly my Mom is called to duty stuff and for a half of week it looked like Sam wouldn't be at her own party. Through the ups and downs of planning and scheduling, real life happens. Work, death, illness, promotions, moving, and new family members arriving. Oh wait that didn't happen to you all as well????  Well we have a new baby (human kind), we are moving, we were promoted, we were sick other than a flu, loved one died, and work work work...

As the last two weeks came around, everything and anything that could schedule was scheduled on 15 August. While my Mom is a great multi tasker; being 1000 miles back and forth 4 times in one day is impossible. Sorry that cape has lost it's wing power.

So she's working, flying, working, flying, traveling, missing 3 major events that are planned for Saturday, August 15th at 0900; 1600; 1900. The first is where she receives the Presidential medal, the second is the Military Appreciation event and swearing in, and the final is a burial at sea.

So they say if you put it out in the universe the universe will take care of it, so I am asking the universe to take care of it, please next year wipe August 15th off the calendar.

Help Homeless Bulldogs today please.

Hello Friends!! Our good friend and yours Magoo Crew is trying to help homeless Bulldogs get the proper care and treatment. Illinois English Bulldog Rescue needs our help. They are selling t-shirts as a booster campaign to raise some money. The winter months are coming, and many dogs are dropped at that time of the year. Let's help build their fund! All monies raised are paid directly to IEBR I do not see it, Magoo doesn't see it. Click the link below! 

http://www.booster.com/magoocrew

Buy a @MagooCrew t-shirt to help homeless English Bulldogs today!
All funds raised in this booster campaign will go directly towards much-needed vet care for the homeless bulldogs that are part of the Illinois English Bulldog Rescue.  We are forever grateful for your generous support!

All funds raised will be paid directly to Illinois English Bulldog Rescue for veterinary care for English Bulldogs in rescue.

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

All twitter pals that have donated or purchased t-shirts are entered into a small drawing for a special bulldog prize.

Magoo will give me the names and we will do a drawing live on periscope. Our way of saying thanks!

Sam's seeya later dinner

So the choices for dinner on Saturday are...

Blue Water Grille - Wildwood

Beach Creek Restaurant - Wildwood

Lobster House - Cape May

Cabanas - Cape May

Washington Inn - Cape May

Mad Batter Restaurant - Cape May (I actually have reservations at 5:15 p.m. on hold)

Please let me know, I am heading out...

Today is a day of happiness... I got new toys and treats~

Mommy had double duty today. Started out very very early... While we were sleeping she was busy making bone money, then she was off to do some other stuff. We had our fave sitter come by today and she told Mommy we are angels. Unfortunately Mommy has a camera and we were a little rough housing...

But there was a celebration of toys and treats. The pawrents stocked up on treats and New Toy Tuesday toys. We know it's going to be rough going in the next day or so, so were are prepared for the spoiling.

On another note, the Mommy is thrilled to report her pain in the butt is gone.. That's right fell right off the planet and she couldn't be happier.

Off to play with the toys we aren't suppose to have until tomorrow...

So here we go again.... grrrrrrr rant

This is Gunner's Mom, and usually the topics are about Bulldogs, Gunner or just funny little things.
This isn't about social media acquaintances, this about real life leaches.
 
This is the second rant on followers. Not people who follow you on social media, but people who follow you in life.

I haven't for the life of me ever figured out why people copy, follow or imitate. I am not a competitive person with others. I celebrate their successes and I hope they would do the same with me. I am sports competitive, career -not so much. I am good at what I do, I am confidant that I am a good business person.

It starts off with someone copying what you like, even though they are not the least bit interested in that. Second the imitation. You say this, they say this, you do this, they copy. Even to friends, someone they have zero connection to, they suddenly are drawn too, so they can be like you.

 The bigger secret is, they are self centered, and self absorbent. Couldn't last a day in my life if they had to, but they play a big story...  Within the next two weeks, my gloves come off, my venom spews and the pieces will fall. Do I like the jugular affect, not effect, quite certainly no. However, squaring someone up is past due.

Bulldog Mom's meet at the Shore for Sam

All about Sam!!! This weekend is dedicated to Sam.... August 14-17, 2015! 

Back a few months ago, our bestie Sam who is known as Diesel's Mom, and the Artistic Bulldog told Mommy some of her upcoming plans.

She was going to open a Studio. A full-fledged studio of Art. That would mean a huge change in her life, and at the same time, her Mr. was offered an amazing opportunity to relocate. While this was all scary, it was very exciting.

Sam has been a friend to Bulldog's and Pugs through her artwork. As well as other breeds, she started working on a few other projects.  Three years ago when we joined Twitter and met Sam, she became an instant friend. One that you could really admire. When my crazy Mom started doing fundraising for the bulldogs in our group, Sam was there to lend a hand and talent. She would often donate to Mom's causes, or give such a discount it was unheard of. Each participant who won one of Sam's creations were so excited. It was the reason to donate. Through all of this, we as a family developed a real friendship through the miles apart. We would check in on each other, listen to each other, and just be happy friends.

Sam has made countless art pieces for our Rainbow Bridge friends, and she has never said no, even when I knew she was very tight on time. When I needed a cartoon drawn, she was there. Sam is our friend.

What better way to celebrate your friend's success than to host a little get-away. Sam was scheduled to be in Wildwood, NJ this coming week. Many East Coasters were within a few hours away, my Mom decided to fly up from Florida. This weekend is all about Sam and her accomplishments, and sending her off. A small token of love and gratitude to an artist so rich in love and talent. So the swag bags were started, the items have been placed and shipped and we are ready...Let's have fun!

Sam is our star. Her studio will be magnificent and we can say we knew her when...


While the plans worked into place, and the recent relocation just happened, it became epic. Endless opportunities and new challenges will be before her. I am most certain we will see big things from her.

On a personal note, there are only a small handful of people we call friends, real friends. Having an online friendship is often scuffed at, but ours is much more than that. So while we celebrate Sam during the weekend, know that are hearts are sad, there will be a 3 hour delay in our morning texts, and we will have to fly 3000 miles instead of 1000 miles.

Life is not an amusement park.

One thing in life that is for sure is... My Mom is not an introvert. She is  not passive aggressive and if she has something to say, she says it. Plain and simple. Public or private, she is not censored.

So many times the words are uttered "it's just not fair"... When did life become an amusement park? Truly amazing how grown adults choose to live in a dream world, and when all their wishes are not granted, they cry fowl, or is it foul????

Keeping on point, friends and family have real issues, not made up drama that makes some small individual feel better about themselves by sticking their nose into everyone else business. Life isn't about one particular person, this world is made up of 90000000000000000000000 people, clearly that number isn't accurate, but the point is... we all have a life, now it's time for others to get one too.

So when it's not fair about this or that, don't you really mean you are upset you aren't the center of attention and things aren't going your way? A more accurate comment would be, I didn't get the E ticket ride, and I am so jealous I have to push my way into everything anyone else does.

By the way, if you think this is about you, it says more about you than what I am writing.

RIP Guinness

Today is a very sad day for Zoey and her family. Her brother Guinness went over Rainbow Bridge. While the pain is very raw and the emotions are very real, we would like to say to Zoey and her family that we will miss Guinness. He is Georgia's boyfriend. Georgia we are sorry for your loss too.

It's not our place to tell the story, only to honor our friend. He was his parents pride and joy, a best friend since he was 11 weeks old. A true gentleman.

Funny how age changes you and your excitement by Mom

Gunner has allowed me to share a short story here... Today while I was suppose to be flying and doing some work things, the weather at 0500 didn't cooperate. The trip wasn't scrubbed until a little while later. What to do with my open day that was frantically blocked for 24 hours or so...

Back in the day I would have headed to the Mall, short ride to Tampa and bam, shopping for the day. However, my age must be catching up with me, because having new things isn't as thrilling as it once was. Don't get me wrong, I still shop, but the thrill has left...

Today I ran a very fast errand and returned home to stay with these two lovable lug bulldogs. We curled up on the couch, turned the air down a bit lower and just kept each other company. I limited my phone calls so I could spend time with G and Mags. I wanted to really just be in the moment.

My report is this, WOW... no traffic to fight, no color decisions, no asking does this make my big butt look normal... Nope, we had a blessed day together. We played and we sat together.

The sweet sounds of their snoring and the soft pats from their paws when I try and move. We have finally separated and G is on the floor, Mags in on the couch and I am lost in space trying to have this day repeated. I loved it, and I love these two lug nuts. They are the reason I get up every day...

So if old age is setting in, I cannot wait. More days with G and Mags is just what I want!!!!!

Can you really be friends with everyone? Gunners point of view

When I list my friends (dogs) more likely than not they are all Bulldogs. Usually even taking it a step further, English Bulldogs. Not always, but most of the time my exposure is to other push faces. With a few exceptions of a Turtle (Jeff) Beagle (Daphne) Shepherd (Rocky)  Paloma (Boston) and a few others...

The big question is can we be friends with different breeds or types. This seems like a human question too. Can you be friends with someone who looks different, acts different, believes in something different and still co-exist?

While the bigger dogs aren't crazy about my sniffing and getting too close in their personal space, the bulldogs seem to have an initial understanding. When I first met Theo in person at a meet up,  we sniffed and moved on. No big drama. It was a hey how you doin' buddy sniff. However others aren't always that way. Some of the dogs at the meetups weren't always so aware of a sniff and move on protocol.

Which brings it back to the humans vs. dogs. When human to human is too close to personal space do you snap or growl? Are they more like dogs than they thought?

It seems as dogs we can look past the fancy things, the size or color of the friends, the differences between beliefs, (dry or wet food thank you). It would appear the humans could or should be more dog like so to speak (bark).

My human has realized that while she is very open to everyone, and none of the above-mentioned enters into her life, she feels it's just not so with other humans. While she would rather a tail wag than a tongue wag, she wishes life was more dog like, than human like. Maybe it wouldn't satisfy the drama seekers, or the people that get too close in your business, all up in your business, just maybe it would be an easier way of living.

So if you see me being friends with the local Python, or Aristocratic Monkey, know that we are who we are... if you don't fit into our life, you just don't.... 

The heat oh the heat...

Living in Florida presents a lot of challenges. Primarily the heat, but the other weather situations such as Hurricane, Tornado, No Named Storms, can be problematic. Let's not exclude the ever so  unpredictable electricity interruptions. Without a cloud in the sky, your electricity goes out.

My Mom has tried to take as many precautions as possible, however, sometimes you can't prepare for it all.

Our air conditioner has been a thorn in our sides.  We have a newer unit, less than 6 years old, but it doesn't seem to be able to keep up with the heat demands of Florida.

We have a middle of the day checker-upper person and she refills water, takes us out, plays with us, and makes sure the house is extremely comfortable. However, when it's isn't as cool as Mommy likes, we go to a code Green. Hotel rooms are booked, we are shuttled and life becomes a roller coaster. GRrrrrrrrrr....

Time for a climate change... 

Bulldog problems...

Being a bulldog presents many problems some aren't aware of, especially living in Florida. The heat is the biggest issue, weather has a way of dictating what we can and cannot do.

Our outside adventures are generally held during October-March. On occasion, if we can arrange all the parameters just so, we get to seek adventure during the very hot months.

Air Conditioning - Check
Back up plan of Air Conditioning - Check
Vet on call - Check
Short distance from Air Conditioning - Check
Back up plans in case first plans do not pan out - Check

After this is checked and rechecked, the thrill of spontaneous travel has left the building. Just jumping in the car to do whatever isn't an option.

Also, most of our friends here in Florida are being encouraged to get the Flu shot, the Bordotella vaccine and pretty sure we are cautioned not to travel out of state.

Fleas use to be the worry, but Ticks took over, and now it's the strain of a virus that we just can't escape. Our newest friend Max; he is an Ole English Bully was at the vet for his boosters and he came out with flu shot, bordotella, and a stern talking to about visiting other dogs until he was now six months old.

The other issue is the groomer. It has been mostly about our kin folk the Frenchy, but some English Bulldog's have had their experiences too. Going to the groomer and making sure your animal is carefully cared for is a chore in it self. All the questions you ask, all the checking and surprise visits...

How cool temp wise is the shop? Do you use a collar restraint ? Do you use a boxed Dryer? Do you use a sling for the dog for nail clipping? How do you handle an unhappy dog? What do you do for a over clipped nail?  How do you separate the dogs? Is your back area secure for escapees? The list goes on and on...

Our skin is sensitive, our noses are sensitive, our owners are sensitive! We can't just chew anything, it's not good for us. Our toys have to be monitored.

Mind you, my human wouldn't trade us for the world, but she would like to point this out to prospective buyers. While we look cute and cuddly, the issues are real. VERY real....

Our life in Florida is ok, we are not doing too badly. We are grateful for our Veterinarians that keep us healthy and treat us better than some of our friends in other states. Just know all these wrinkles of love come at a price, not a economic price all the time...

 

So there we were...

When we took the short road trip, Mom was concerned about the virus' we could catch. We had the flu shot, but lets be realistic, each strain is more complicated than the previous one.

According to our vet, anytime you travel outside your own home, you risk a virus/flu/bug.

We are not up to par, and the vet seems to think it was the foreign travel to 2.5 states away. I hate to tell him she made us wear disposable booties on the grass.

So we are on sick watch and if all goes well, that means our stories and popcorn all weekend. Oh yeah Mags and I are milking it. I slept on Mommy's lap for the very first time for 3 hours today... I haven't done that before, closest was 2 plus years ago, and it was for an hour.

Have a great weekend, we are on the couch... Mommy says she needs a break from icky sicks..

Update: Maggie and I are feeling slow and low. 

Friendship thank you's continued...

As a dog you wouldn't think I would have a best friend. Well I have a pack of besties. They are my  twitter pals. My late night, snack eating, butt sniffing, stubborn friends from all over the world. In honor of my Mommy's Great-Grandmothers tradition, we are going to thank a few of the special ones that make us laugh, make us cry, make us smile ear to ear and make us very happy we know them...

Every bulldog needs a wing-man... I have a few that I would say are my ride or die buddies. Rocco, Deuce, Diesel, Mr. Chips, Thor, Ozzy, Brutus, Jethro, Sammy, Rocky, and Henry Ford, just to name a few....Not to be forgotten, there are the women's that make my wrinkles giggle. Lady B, Bubbles, CleopatraFlirtalicious, Lucy, Bella, ZeeZee, Chloe, Dapphy, Bex, Gracie, Dixie (although I am a craddle robber) and the list could go on and on.

Thank you to the many friends we have here from twitter. When the world looks at you like you are nuts talking about your 4 legged babies, you always have a safe place to go with my twitter friends.

So in keeping with Mommy's Great Grand Mother's tradition, thank you very much for the great friendship.

Much love,

Gunner

Friendship means a lot. Guest writer Mommy.

Today we are reflective for many reasons, but one in particular is because we are coming up on the 4th of July, our Country's birthday. Where we celebrate our Freedom. However, on July 2nd, I remember a long standing tradition my Great-grandmother had.

We have a few friends we would call best friends. Those that give a smile when needed, a hug when unexpected and a kind word on cue.

My privilege to call Sam (Artistic Bulldog) a friend is just that. When I would do a silly raffle, or a fundraiser, she was there. Often fighting me about paying her. She gave graciously to my silly ventures. Sam also stood by me and helped me when I thought it was going to be bleak with donations.

While we share a love of Korean food and bulldogs, we share something else. The crazy notion to just be ourselves. I admire her family unit and her tremendous talent.

I choose today to remind others about friendship because today would have been my Great-grandmothers birthday. She would have been 118 years old today. She would often say, remember to tell the friends you love, thank you. On her birthday she would get flooded with gifts and cards. The interesting thing was, she would send out a card to her friends that would arrive on her birthday that said my gift for my birthday is you, having your friendship makes me rich with love.

So in honor of my Great-grandmother I want to tell you Sam thanks for making me rich with friendship, and being able to tell you my crazy clothing snafus.

Help Bulldog Rescue with purchases of shirts

https://represent.com/roaddogs

Our very own bestie Artistic Bulldog © Sam created the artwork for this tshirt. We have ordered two, one for the Mom and one for Dad.

Won't you help out too?

It's a great cause and it will help the Bulldogs in Rescue. Every bit helps~

They need just seven more for their initial goal...

Sam and Kym at the shore UPDATE...

We posted this...

Please let me know if you are considering or are coming. I have to finalize the swag bags and get them packed for shipping, plus order the shirts and other novelties. Please DM or text me. 

Here is the update... If you are interested in joining us at the shore, here are the details. We will be staying in Wildwood Crest, NJ.  Please feel free to get a room anywhere, we do not need to stay together. A source we use is www.gwcoc.com  This is Wildwood's Chamber of Commerce, and a very valued site.

If you are in town Friday night, Kym will host a happy hour and dinner for the early arrivals.

Saturday we will meet up and spend the day with fun activities and the party will be Saturday night.

Sunday we will have breakfast and take the ferry to Delaware and hopefully see some Whales and Dolphins. If you have to leave to beat the traffic we understand.

English Bulldogs need your help

http://www.ilenglishbulldogrescue.org/


With English Bulldogs being in the top 5 of desired breeds, it's a wonder we don't have more problems. Well we do, but they aren't as talked about I guess.

Many bulldogs have issues, it's a given when you research and buy/adopt. What isn't a given is when the impulse buyer, the I have to have that squishy face, purchase happens and guess what... SURPRISE.

The rescues that support the sick, neglected, under-treated, over-exposed bulldogs are truly saints. This month we would like to ask our friends, our followers, to consider donating to Illinois English Bulldog Rescue. The link is at the top. Tell them Magoo sent you.

With the help of our favorite professional artist Artistic Bulldog © we are creating tshirts as a fundraiser for our twitter pal rescues. Please stand-by for that next project.  We cannot take the credit for this, Theo's Mom was the original idea behind this. It's just taken us a little longer to get it into motion.

Please support rescue organizations, they are miracle workers without recognition!    

Summer venting...

For the record, this is not about YOU, or you, or even you! This is my vent about about our neighbor who shouldn't own a dog, have a child or even breath good air.

Last week they headed off for vacation, the 16th to be exact. Upon our return home from the best weekend ever, a neighbor came to Mommy and said their dog had been barking for several hours. Mommy ignored the nosey neighbor and went about her business. That afternoon into deep evening Maya the dog was barking uncontrollable, there were no lights on the house and it was really bad. Nosey neighbor came back over and said they were calling the po-po because they felt she was left for death.  Mommy texted neighbor and said hey dog is barking badly for several hours, want me to check on her? Neighbor says no, my brother is staying there. Mommy says wrong, no one has been here, it's dark and nosey neighbor calling po-po. He said bro will be there in 10 mins.

Next day neighbors Mother-inLaw my favorite pee target arrives and swoops the dog up and takes her to her place.

Mommy is happy for dog, but thinks they suck as humans. All of them.

Yesterday in the midst of my sister Mags being sick, Mommy is outside and see's said neighbor and he informs her he is swormed with fleas and ticks. HELLO ??? So Mommy runs in the house (yes runs) and puts on yard clothes, and takes to the yard to treat it so the creepy crawlies do not invade, and by the way, Mags is sick and there's that.

They say their exterminator is coming and they are going to go to the beach. HELLO morons a little spraying isn't going to do the trick with infestation. But we are not the bug people. They did not spray their yard, they did not have the bug guy come, something about a past invoice???

So piece of trash people who think it's a big joke, my yard unfortunately is connected to you. My industrial strength stuff hopefully covers me and my yard...

By the way, this is the neighbor I stole (rehomed) their dog. I am not stealing the other dog, my good deeds are done.

Save the date - Party at the Shore and more...

It's going to be a great party! We are celebrating something special and hope that you can attend. This is in honor of Sam our favorite Bulldog Artist!

If you cannot come we understand the travel involved. I am sure there will be lots of pictures.

Back to basics - It's New Toy Tuesday

So many people have come into our lives, and some have left. While we mourn the ones who died, we gladly opened the door to those who were toxic and needed to leave.

We are back to basics in our house. We are taking things one day at a time and celebrating New Toy Tuesday's with vigor. Mommy said there isn't anyone or anything more important than Gunner and Maggie, the rest is grey matter that clouds the world with false b.s.

I think today may be chicken Tuesday in honor of Cinco de Mayo. I hope Maggie and I score big with the new toys. We are excited that Mommy has placed us back in the front row of priorities.

Here is something I heard her say and it makes a lot of sense, even to me a bulldog...

God only lends you the great things in life. Special animals and people should be treasured, not taken for granted. When you don't feel good about someone or something, it's God's way of saying move along...

So while we are on loan, we are enjoying it all very much.

Gunner

Weekend coming to a close...

Wow what a weekend. So much to say... The weekend plans for Sam's big party at the Shore this summer is coming along very well. The invitations will be mailed this week when Mommy is back, and the plans and swag bags are coming together.

The Kentucky Derby was a total and complete score for the $$ Gods.

The memorial was very nice and Mommy is on hiatus from her duties... We have had a nice relaxing time with the man-sitter and today as she is home from the "stuff" she had to take care of, we are getting the full love and affection we demand.

The flowers we sent Mom are being re-delivered so Mommy can enjoy them the whole week. - and I don't want want to brag here, but I paid for them out of my own boney bone money. The mailbox money came again and cha-ching I scored.

Maggie needs to find herself a Gig to score some loot, I am tired of having to cover her share.

Happy First week in May to our friends and family! Tomorrow should be a great day!!!

May Day 2015

Happy May Day 2015.

Here in the Bulldog land we are celebrating with Mommy and friends. First off Mommy is ON hiatus from any and all work duties. Today starts a good month long or longer hiatus of job duties.

May Day starts with fresh flowers being delivered and throughout the day we will have flowery things. Watch for collar bows and cheerful things.

It's a long standing tradition to do the May Pole dance. However Mommy is a little afraid of the Fertility Gods and their possible nasty joke they might play, so she is sitting the ribbon affair out this year. We do not want any stinking hooman babies stealing any of Mommies time from us!!!!

To close out the day we are having a bon fire to commemorate May Day. We have marshmellows, hot dogs, s'mores and friends tonight.

I will update with pictures when the flowers arrive that Daddy, Maggie and I sent to Mommy.  

People and dogs come into your life for a reason

Today we have been really reflective. We have a keen sense of awareness today of how people impact our lives.

Maggie and I were both sitting on Mommy's lap today and decided we would count our blessings instead of worrying about what we do not have, we should be grateful for all that we do have.

Then we reflected on the people that came into our lives and have left our lives. Friends we made, and some so toxic we had to say goodbye too. Then, we sat quietly for the friends we lost to Rainbow Bridge. It never gets easier and each time, Mommy cries a little harder and squeezes us just a bit tighter.

As each new friend was made on Twitter (real friend) we realized it was at a time we needed or wanted that companionship. When we first met Rocco, it was over a person posting calling bulldogs stupid and ebonics. Theo's Mom was over a lost Bulldog in Tampa that was abducted. Henry Ford was when his brother Falco was being devious, and Deuce was early on in the game with his funny Stewart noises. Deuce introduced us to doggie room service... OMD it was ah-maz-ing...

Each and every friend we made has been a great blessing. So while we sit and worry about what we don't have that others do, how about being thankful. Remember people come and go, but a animal is here for ever.

Lot's of love to all my friends...

Gunner 

Another Angel got her wings... Miss O RIP

Our twitter family is severely suffering another loss. Dear Sweet Miss O has joined many friends at Rainbow Bridge.

The soft gentle girl that was Magoo's sidekick became suddenly sick with seizures and unfortunately she was called home to Heaven.

The family is definitely beside themselves with grief, as is our Twitter circle of 12 million. You see, Miss O and Magoo captured our hearts with their daily sha-nan-agains.. That's right, it was Lucy and Desi of the 4 legged kind.

I am especially sad for Carter. He was so lucky to be born into this family; their abundance of love and compassion is so powerful. Miss O loved Carter, she is truly a beauty-bull soul.

Miss O know that our hearts are breaking right now for the loss of you, but we know you are dancing in the streets of Heaven with your furry friends. We love and miss you, and if you wouldn't mind sending a silent prayer down to Magoo,  he isn't doing too good with you being gone.

Much love,

Gunner

This Saturday we are having a Wedding party....

Hey Everyfurry friend... Our bestest buddy Deucey's family is having a wedding. Let's surprise them and show up!!!! Ok not in person, but how about on Vine????

We are putting on our best clothes and wishing the family well.... My Mommy is even baking a wedding cake for Mags and I to eat. WOOHOO.

We are are wearing mint green and baby blue. If you are interested, please use hashtag #DeuceyWedding....

Let's wish the happy couple many years of bulldogs and happiness.

Bulldog Mom's weekend funny update

So a couple of the Mom's might meet up at the shore for a very special event. Mommy's so excited she can barely keep her hands out of the swag bags she is putting together. (hahaha Sam)...

But today was the funniest... She called a few places about rentals. First she started off with, I am meeting a few of my girlfriends for a bulldog Mom's weekend. First place said, um we don't take dogs, and what kind of Mom's are bulldog Mom's????

After a little chatter Mommy decided that wasn't the place for her. Next up, her old standbye place when her place isn't available. Dude on phone says, is this something kinky? I mean you aren't talking about swappers or something? WE are a family place... Mommy was kind of in a teasing mood and said well... only bulldog owners would know... He had no sense of humor.

Finally she calls another place and they said what kind of group are you, but Mommy heard Groupie and she started off by saying we are Twitter friends, and we have bulldogs and we want to have a nice weekend away. At the end of the conversation Mom decided no more talk about the bulldogs, people think she is nuts.

All Pudge prizes have been received finally!!!!

With only one exception, Mommy has heard from the winners for donating to Pudge. Pudge certainly appreciated all the people that donated their bone money in the pot, and we sent a long a few good prizes.

To the winners; thank you for your gracious thank-yous. Your actions show class.

This is also a celebration for us, NO MORE POST OFFICES... We are finally completely mailed off and need no other reason to mail...

Best of Luck Pudge on your journey now...

It's shot time for G

This morning was a special morning, Mommy donned her ninja outfit and began the covert operation of taking me to the vet and not taking Maggie with us.

At the ungoshly hour of 7 of the A.M. Mommy began putting travel things out in the garage. She worked the back door up so we could escape through the back door, weasel around into the garage, gather said things, and exit without too precious for words (Maggie)...

It was almost an epic adventure, however, Mom decided she didn't like the leash and harness set she choose covertly and picked another, just then Maggie who misses no sudden moves or treats/food sprang alive. We had to make our exit quick, but we could hear baby Maggie crying. It was either Maggie or my Mom, I am still not too sure.

We loaded up in the SUV and off we drove over the bridge, to the big highway, around the bend and to our Vet. We love our Vet, we just wish it wasn't the same feeling as the national debt. After a few Benjamin's we departed for home. I am thinking no new treats today, Mom's purse is about 3 bills light.

We arrived home and baby sister Maggie is on watch, she barks at us as we re-enter the back door. My Mom has a thing about returning from the same door you left from. After the welcome kisses were given, Mags threw herself on the floor and had a tantrum. No kidding, Mommy couldn't stop laughing, she jumped, hopped, skipped, slung herself and whined. Unfortunately the iBone was in the car, I assure you it would have been a video!!

I am resting and taking it easy, Maggie is sleeping... this is our rough life of living with my Mommy. Tomorrow company comes and we are having a bbq, I bet you I don't get samples.... I was so good at the Vet, I deserve good eats... Please write your Congressman and tell them to make Mommy give me human foods. 

Getting back to the basics...

Tonight the new sitter came to visit. I was talked to about being overly Gunner. What the heck does that mean Mom? I mean I am your man baby. Maggie did her best impression of being adorable and I did my best impression of being Mom's favorite.

When babysitter showed, I sniffed gingerly and then realized she was a girl dog lover. OH.NO.SHE.DIDN'T. She liked the Toy Stealing, Lip Curling, Attitude Throwing, baby sister of mine. Well... I must increase my net worth, I know, I can motor-boat her. Yeah, that's the ticket. Maggie would never do that... Or would she?

When all my charms seemed to fail, I decided I needed to use the restroom and outside I went. Curious as a bee, the sitter had to see. And see she did, she stood a little too close to the stream... Bet Maggie can't do that. Or can she...

As the siblings decided to have a pee off; and see who could get closest to the sitter, we both seemed to sprinkle our tinkle and Mom left mortified.

These babysitters are hard to come by, I hope Mom has a list. This is going to be a long week...

Sincerely,

The PeePee siblings.

Gunner and Maggie

Gunner and Maggie finally settling in

We have had the combo together for about a month or so. Maybe longer, it seems like yesterday she arrived and stole my bone. I think when she arrived she stole my Mom's heart too.

Our time together is getting easier, Maggie is very food aggressive and very toy aggressive. I am a sweet boy with no intentions of hurting or stealing from her, but that might change if she keeps it up.

We took a break from Twitter for a few personal reasons, and have slowly started back. I think we got too involved and too close, so we are taking our time going back. Not sure we will continue with Twitter. We found some real friends out of Twitter, and I think that was a great experience. The rest as the kids say, are just Casual...

This week we are getting a new couch for my room and hopefully a new couch for Maggie. We are super excited and hope that all the furniture is bulldog proof. You know, no slobbers.

We sent our love and affection to our buddy Deuce, we hope you have a life time of happiness. Kiss little LiLi for us.

Tomorrow is another sailing day, and Mommy is going to try to take pictures without drowning us. Wish us luck.

Bulldog Mom's Weekend....

Oh my gosh, it looks like Mags and I will be living in the man cave when Mommy goes to the shore in August. She is gathering up a few of the Bulldog Mom's to up with Sam (Artistic Bulldog) in Wildwood, NJ.

It's a special event - a Party will be happening, it's someone's special day...

Now what do you think they will talk about? I betcha two whole months bone money, they bring buckets of photos and talk like school girls. Mom says she might have to get some liquor to help ease the pain of missing our push faces.

So the weekend is set... August 14th Mom heads down the shore, Saturday evening a little party will ensue, then Mommy departs on the 17th and heads back..

She said she is coming home the 17th, however, she loves the shore more than she loves me, so I don't know...

So tell your Mommies, the shore is where to be... and join the party...

If your Mommies or even Daddies are interested, please let my Mommy know and she will give you the party information and location.

Gunner and Mags

Pudge donation prizes sent

FYI all the Pudge donation prizes sent. I am sure they are more than thankful for all the money they collected from people.

I personally purchase items and pay for the postage as donations to help entice the donations, because frankly most people are generous and I liked to do it. 

This prize pack included a portrait from Sam Dellinger, and she DONATED it, yes that's right. So many thanks for doing that Sam. Besides being a great artist, you are a genuine friend and I appreciate you.

This time I tracked the packages to see when they were delivered so I knew not to worry.

Best of luck to Pudge and the rest of the sick babies out there. This is our last prize package.

They say what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger...

A little introspective posting. We are so very lucky to have a roof over our heads, food in our belly and a back yard to play in freely. However we sometimes get caught up in the "To Do" list we forget about the list we completed. It's very easy to let life take over. Family, job, commitments, social pressures, lack of time to do all you want to do. That list somehow gets bigger and bigger and the walls around you close in. Who really takes adequate time taking care of themselves? Who really sets limits and boundaries all around?

We are so very fortunate to have a lot of friends that care about us. I want to personally thank Deuce's Mom, Sam Dellinger, LadyJ, Mandy, Miss Dixie Dumplin, Lord Roscoe, Dawn, Sara, for yesterdays random check in. Maybe it was just what the doctor ordered. A very strong reminder that it's not all sad and crazy going on.

Mom had a guest coming last night for a business meeting, we had to be washed, brushed, and in our night time routine. This is a foreign guest and she was afraid we would terrorize her. The clock ticked, and Maggie and I were perfect angels. However, the guest didn't show, no call either. After an hour and a half longer than my Mom would ever wait, she began scrolling through her cell phone and re-read private messages from our friends above. Some were texts, some were dms.

She closed up the business office, Mommy grabbed me and we snuggled. I mean we had Mommy love time! I was so happy she thought I was crying. I was so gentle with Mommy, but we had our special time. Maggie got her fair share, but I was her number one heart saving boy. We read a story and danced. Yes for the first time in 4 months we danced.  Having Maggie here is tough. Mommy feels like we cannot cohabitate together. Finally Mommy realizes I am the better behaved child. Sound the horns, I am the good son...

We cannot say how grateful we are enough to our friends. It didn't kill us, it really did make us stronger. Often the rope loosens and your strength isn't what you thought it was. People pleasing, over-doing, forgetting about the bigger picture, we could go on and on...

We are back my friends, well sort of. We are leaving for a little R&R and will be back after Easter. Many challenges ahead, but nothing as important as living our lives in peace.

Thank you for allowing us to document the love we have felt.

Gunner, Maggie and Mommy

xoxoxo

Trying to get through it all

Friends we miss you, and we hope you understand our time away. We have a lot we are dealing with. We have family stuff that is unsettled and we have a lot of work things that are not working to the best of our timing.

On top, my Mom is pretty sick. Between her duties this week, she is having to go to specialist and hopefully we will all have a happy day soon.

Maggie and I are trying to behave, but it's hard. We are kids and we like to wrestle. We broke the china cabinet and Mommy cried. She put herself in timeout. We miss you all very much, and will return in a month or so.

Gunner, Maggie and Mommy

St Pattys Day Party

Ok folks, we have been away and we are sorry. We want to keep this positive so lets get the party Started...

I am going to post pictures !

Pudge Drawing... Please read

Tonight I am doing the drawing for Pudge's donations. Please check our Vine for seeing the winners.

We have a few cool gifts.

1.  Betsy Johnson Bulldog Makeup Cases -  Mr. Chip Mom

2.  Stuffed Bulldog (Ikea Bulldog) - Deuce and Tooie

3.  Bulldog Portrait from Sam Dellinger - Delilah and Zoey

4.  Silver Bulldog Necklace - Jodi- Ella Mae's Mommy

5.  Framed Bulldog Picture - Valerie Haines

6.  Bulldog Frame - Very heavy - RockytheDogg woohoo...

Are you ready???????

Sorry for the delay and absence.

I am sorry to say we have been missing in action for the past week. We sincerely apologize. Maggie and I would like to tell you that we are forgiving Mommy for being gone and overly busy, and sort of sick and kind of upset and overall she is a mess. However, the bacon she had the butler make for us is kind of a peace offering and we are going to take it.

We are sorry if she has caused you any grief, we will be back to our regular schedule this weekend and will conduct the two projects she started.

However after that, we are going to take a break, Mommy has some things to work out. Thank you for being our friend and we wish happiness to everyone.

Another friend passed over Rainbow Bridge RIP Halsey

Dear Sweet Halsey lost her battle today, she died peaceful in her Mommy's arms. This is a terrible time for her family and I ask you to say a paw-prayer for her.

We know that often we leave our families far too soon, and everyone cries. Please know we go safely to heaven and run free from pain and disease. 

What an amazing spirit you had during you fight! Much love and comfort for your family. 

Love Gunner and Mags

Pudge needs our love and contributions

http://www.gofundme.com/pudgesplea


Everyone Pudge is a rescue dog that needs us. He is family, not my family but our Twitter Family.
But over here at Bulldog Gunner's Blog we are throwing in a little jazz.. All the Twitter folks who have donated will have their name in a hat and we will draw thank you prezzies. Instead of just one box, I think we could spread the wealth. We have great prizes. I will post pictures with my ibone later tonight.



Here's his story: 

Hello friends! 

Thank you for visiting my Gofundme.com page.

I'm sure you want to know a little bit about who I am and what exactly my "plea" is all about. First off, my name is Pudge (aka Pudgeman). I am what they call a "rescue bulldog." From what I remember, I was born in rural Arkansas and my original owner must have done something bad because he/she ended up in prison. After that, I was sold on this website called Craigslist a few times. However, my last owner decided that they didn't want me (imagine that!) and dropped me off at a shelter somewhere in the middle of Arkansas. While I was fearful about where I would be shipped off to next, I was told I was in good hands. On November 11, 2014, this very nice couple showed up and told me we would be going on a bit of a car ride... to Memphis, TN! I was nervous, a little smelly, and had some eye and ear infections but I just went with the flow and trusted my gut. Turns out, they brought me to the home of two very nice girls, Maria & Caitlin. They call themselves bulldogs as well...Drake Bulldogs! I knew from that first night I was with them, my future was looking much brighter.

Since then, I have had the sweetest life. I fetch rubber chickens, sleep, play tug-of-war, run around outside & meet other pups, look handsome, sleep, and do a few tricks for treats (I know how to high-five...nbd). I LOVE car rides, cuddling, and belly rubs...oh and did I mention sleeping?

While my life has been pretty fantastic since I've been rescued, I recently found out some bad news. I visited my vet this last week and he broke it to me that I am going to require this major ear surgery pretty soon and eventually, an eye surgery. Despite best efforts to avoid surgery (steroids, laser therapy, ear cleanings), it seems like in the long-run, this is my best option. My ears are so bad, most likely due to being poorly cared for and not being fed the best food pre-rescue, that portions of it have already calcified...ouch! Every vet who has examined them becomes very concerned about just how bad they are (the worst they have ever seen) and if they aren't fixed soon, I am told sad things could happen.  While I am fearful of the surgery because I will be deaf afterwards, I started working on sign-language months ago with my foster moms! As for my eyes, they are a little droopy. They are constantly irritating and itching and so I need a bit of an eye lift.  

The Smoky Mountains Bulldog Rescue (SMBR) saved my life...however, they have to help many bulldogs like myself.  Turns out, I am such a handsome boy that one of my foster mom's has decided she just cannot live without me <tail wagging!>. So...my foster home is sending out a "plea" on my behalf to help get the funds for SMBR to do my pretty expensive surgeries so I can stay in my forever home.  While I have been told it will be a rough recovery, we are all ready to tackle it. The sooner we raise the money for SMBR for the surgeries, the sooner I can officially become my mom's son!

I will be forever grateful for anything you can donate to SMBR. I promise to keep you updated on my progress, be the biggest ambassador for rescued (bull)dogs, and of course, keep being my big Pudge-awesome self.

Go Bulldogs!

(Learn more about me and my daily shenanigans! Follow me on Twitter @Pudgeman901)

Maggie and I

To say we've come a long way, well we are really not that bad with each other. You see, I am the number one dog here at the Bulldog & Breakfast Resort. As big as I am, I am quite sensitive and gentle in nature. I have the big dopy kid syndrome and do not know my own strength. However, I haven't a mean bone in my body other than an occasional nip at my dad to let him know I am the boss. Unfortunately I usually get taken down a peg by the Alpha dog Mommy. She is an experienced behavior issue person and has no time for my shenanigans.  Maggie on the other hand, well she wasn't raised in the same environment. She has a bit of an adjustment.

We are very social and outgoing. We do things as a family. We spend quality time together playing, reading and watching bulldog videos. I am loved by many and I am sharing that with my sister Maggie.

Maggie's favorite things are to help bake or cook for the B&B. We are the official food tasters. Mommy is a little worried how close Mags likes to get to the oven, so she isn't allowed near it anymore. I steer clear until the bell rings for the official tasting to commence.

It has been decided that Maggie will probably get her own pink room. Mommy is shopping for a new bed for her and bedding. Mag's loves sleeping in her crate at night, as do I, so I am not sure how that is going to work out.

We did buy Mag's her own suit case yesterday because we are taking a trip. After Mag's visits the vet for her shots this week, we are going to test her flying. Let's hope she has no issues with ear popping.

Love to all my friends and family. Maggie and I are doing good. It's a journey not a sprint.

First night with sister Maggie

After we had our sit down dinner we decided to settle in and tear it up! I mean we had a great time just snarling at each other. I kept hearing my Mommy say "bite him Maggie" as if? What she was really saying was do not take his crap. I bet you my Mommy was a little sister once!

We went to bed in our respective rooms. I went in with the Daddy and Maggie went in with Mommy. Maggie was not settling so she had to sleep in her crate in Mommy's room.

We slept through the night without incident and woke up this morning very happy and refreshed. We both went outside to the fog to do our bidness and quickly returned to take our places at the dining car.

Today is going to be a bit of a challenge. Mommy has a lot of work to do, and Mags and I are probably going to ride shotgun. Oh boy the fun...

We are taking it slow and easy, my sister has a bum leg and some back issues. The suppa smart doc stopped by the house to take a peek at Maggie and we have a small tough road ahead.

Stay tuned...

Welcome my littermate sister Maggie to my house.

Here is Maggie's story. She was born the same day as me, we are littermates. Her Mommy and My Mommy are sisters. We came home on March 17, 2012 from the breeder.

Maggie's Mom was sickly for about a year or so. Unable to walk from Neuropathy and some other issues. Her Mom was in and out of the hospital over a period of time. She became wheelchair bound and her life slowly deteriorated.

Maggie was a daddy's girl, but deep down loved her Mommy. When her Mommy passed away in November, she was lost. We would visit her and take her for visits so she wasn't so lonely. Her Daddy was beside himself, and he has decided to move to NY back to his original roots. Unfortunately, he isn't taking Maggie or her other furry sisters. He asked my Mommy to take Maggie, and we joyfully said yes. Maggie and my Mommy are very close, Maggie loves me Mom.

There was a delay in getting Mags, but today the stars aligned and Aunt Ronnie helped Mommy get it all completed. Mommy's been a little worried how I will react, and in true Gunner fashion, I am being a stinker. I might have bit my Mom.

Please welcome Maggie to the household and Twitter. She has her own Twitter name MagsaMoo3...

Updated: Friends we need your help for a baby Bulldog. Please support GEBR.

 Baby Reese and her littermate need our help. Please help if you can! I am donating a prize package for anyone who donates $10.00 or more to their care. The prize box consists of awesome bulldog item's and I think everyone will like it. Please put in your comments that you were sent by Gunner.


This little bulldog is from my area. Her parents initially bought her and had exhausted all kinds of efforts. 

I was suddenly shocked to see her go to Georgia English Bulldog Rescue from Tampa Bay Florida. This is why we SUPPORT GEBR. Talk about going outside your Area of Responsibility. 

I know I have asked for help before, and we have all really appreciated it, but this baby is suffering and needs constant care to survive. Please dig if you can... I will be putting together a drawing for everyone who donates and all the information, but we need Angels. Please... 

 For Paypal, we can be found under gabullierescue@gmail.com.

2/7/15: Please welcome Reese! She was born 11/15/14. Reese was sold by a breeder at 8 weeks old and went to live with her new forever family. At the time when Reese was sold she was walking, running, and a normal healthy puppy. Approximately 1-week after being in the new families home one morning Reese no longer had the use of her back legs, and poor responsiveness. Her family provided her emergency vet care. X-ray showed inflammation and abnormalities. Vet placed Reese on antibotics. 4 days later Reese new owners contacted the breeder. The breeder and family continued to seek veterinarian help, Reese was not showing improvement after completing antibotics she was seen by the vet again. The vet put her on more antibotics and steriods. By this time Reese is going on 2 weeks of no use of back legs, laying on chest is beginning to cause chest to flatten and effecting front legs. Family seeked a veterinarian specialist opinion. The specialist recommended therapy. 5 days later GEBR was contacted to help provide the physical and medical needs of Reese and she was surrendered to GEBR by the family at the breeders recommendation.

At this time we treating her as a swimmer puppy until seen by veterinarian on Monday. Her chest is flat, poor muscle strength in rear legs, front legs splayed and knuckling. Reese is receiving every 2 hours around the clock therapy, plus harness and legs hobbled.

Update 2/9/15: Reese was seen by Martinez Animal Hospital today. The vet stated she was possibly injured, sore, & in shock. Due to failure of providing proper physical therapy and preventing her of just laying in one spot caused her to decline and reverse into puppy swimmer syndrome. Reese had braces and soft cast placed on both front legs today. Instructed to continue physical therapy, reduce weight, and limit food. Vet expects her to make a full recovery with GEBR providing the weekly vet visits, around the clock therapy she requires at this time.

So here's the plan... Please donate via PayPal to GABULLIERESCUE@GMAIL.COM

In the notes, please say Reese - Twitter.   That way we can keep track of who donated and put their names in the hat for drawing. 

Here's the good stuff...  Portrait from Samantha Dellinger (Artistic Bulldog) renowned Bulldog Artist.  Plus a basket of goodies that any bulldog lover would love. I will put the basket together and shoot a picture, but we have an awesome Frame of Bulldogs, Bulldog Coin, Clothing, pictures and so on and so on... This is a really special one, lets make it rain!!!! 

Gunner and Kym 

Rescues and Resources...

The love of a bulldog is unmeasurable, I could go on and on about how much love and affection the wrinkle-mess gives. I don't think I could do it justice.

We often see Rescue groups and think that is awesome work. But really do we give them a second thought? I have been blessed with a little extra bone money (we call it my pawallowence) to give a little to the rescues. I think they need more, more, more...

Each one of my friends has a bed to sleep in, a few toys and treats and definitely parents that take them to the Vet on regular visits. For some rescues, that is a life they have never experienced.

We have a few friends on Twitter that are Rescue Hero's. They put their own lives on hold most of the time and take in rescues for the betterment of the dog.

I would like to ask you to help make a difference. On the sidebar are Bulldog Rescues, please consider donating to them.

First up is Illinois English Bulldog Rescue- Magoo  and Crew are volunteers. You can donate monthly, how about just the cost of one latte' reoccurring?

Bullies to the Rescue- What an awesome group... please check them out!!

Buckeye Bulldog Rescue - my personal bestie Rocco and family are huge supporters. They are an awesome group.

Let's not forget Georgia English Bulldog Rescue - They are super busy and always getting in chargee's as we like to call them. Please please please help any and all out.

Do you shop on Amazon? Did you know you can give a little just by shopping? Go to Smile.Amazon and pick out one of these charities and proceeds from your purchases are donated...

Any or all of these rescues need your help!

Look at your furbaby and think, what if I couldn't pay for them? I want you to know, each of these are authentic and the real deal! Please please please consider donating.

Love is in the air....

Valentines Day has always been very special around our house. We love-love. Each year it's a ritual of the gift giving and the card exchanging. This year we are sending out treats and things to our friends again. We were hoping to have a Cupid Gallery of pictures.  No one seems to be interested. So the season of Love is starting. If you are one of our friends, please watch your mail boxes, we are shipping early because of the weather...

Love Gunner...

The Love of a Dog

In our house we are human childless; no kids in our mix. When Mom was younger she thought about adoption and went through the process. After several thousands of bone money; and a scam or two, she opted to love what loved her the most, animals. Oh sure at times she pinged and panged, but never has she felt her life incomplete. As a matter of fact, she feels quite complete with the love of me Gunner.

That is not to say she does not get funny stares when she would pull out her photo books (back in the day they printed pikkies WTH?) and brag about this one or that one winning their title. At first glance her friends would think she was talking about a 2 legged child. While having babies is all exciting, nothing is more rewarding to my Mom than a wet nose curling up saying "scratch me please".

Over the past several years, the show ring was the place to be. All the pomp and circumstance. She did it, the past kids brought home the titles, however, she still let them be dogs - dare I say that. They went to Pet Stores, they rode in cars, they slept in human beds, they played tug and most of all had a real life. Unfortunately some show people thought she was cray cray, (that is for another discussion). When it came to breeding, she was a bit on the neurotic side. Testing prior to breeding, meeting the female, learning more about their line and so on. She was a stand-alone in her methods. Never breeding for money or pleasure, it had to be the right way, the right match and skip the b.s.

When I came along, it was at a time when she and I were ready, not exactly in a perfect place, but in a time we knew we were bonded for life. What is most interesting is my Mom's top three dogs, one horse, one cow and one pig have all shared the same birthday; yep you guessed it January 21st. Mom's paint mare double Reg. St. Leo's Flower; Hereford Cow- Sow; Miss Percy You look Fine, Pig -Landrace X Rosie - Roses are For Wimps;  Mastiff - Ch. Gen'l Dixie Rebel; Shih Tzu Ch. CrossCreek Dad's Lil Scooter and me... Ch. Lyerly's This Guns For Hire. We don't know if the stars align or what the significance is, but we know the love and torment the four leggers have given Mom has been amazing.

Some of our friends on Twitter share similar lives. They are human childless too. I guarantee to you they feel the same love my Mom feels. Today one posted a picture that sums it up quite nicely, "This Girl Loves Her Bulldog"... My Mom loves each and every dog, however, it doesn't stop there. She has also loved all our friends.

So when you wonder about the love of a dog, or the love of an animal, you need to think about all the love YOU receive, because my Mom says it's the love from an animal that means the most.

Happy Tuesday my friends.

Gunner xoxo