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Thursday, December 31, 2009

Happy New Year!


Only 6 more hours until 2010! We have great ideas for this next year and hope you do to. We want to wish everyone happiness and encourage you to make a resolution to play more! We are going to play more and help others learn to pay it forward.


At Delta Family Counseling, Tara, Julie, Robin, and the two of us have decided to pick a non-profit every other month and do a donation drive for them. We will announce this at the beginning of each odd numbered month and hope you will help us in fulfilling the wish lists of other groups.


This is a picture from an hour ago where Tara caught us sneaking a quick nap so that we can stay up until midnight to ring in 2010!
~~Abbey and Bode

Monday, December 28, 2009

Are you looking for a forever friend?


This week we are encouraging you to meet Charley and his friends at the Gulf Coast Humane Society. They are sweet dogs looking for a loving home! Charley has a hard time getting attention since he has some pit bull in him! He is a sweet and loving six year old dog. He gets along great with other dogs and children, but not cats or other small furry animals. He is very active and loves to be out and about. If you are thinking about Charley and aren't sure, the Gulf Coast Humane society is open to have you foster him first to see if he works for your household and when you see he is meant for your family, you can formally adopt him!
Please pass this along to those who may have a heart and passion to make Charley a forever part of their family, as he is very sad in his cage and really wants a home!
Until our next blog....
Abbey and Bode

Sunday, December 27, 2009

If only it were that easy....

Matching a canine to a human just like online dating for human to human.... What a concept!! We found this article and thought we would share! There are great people at the local shelters, especially Gulf Coast Humane Society where our foster siblings come from, that can help you match!

http://bit.ly/7ogjJg

Friday, December 25, 2009

Holidays can be exhausting!


The holidays sure can wear you out! I love cuddling on the couch, especially with my new Shrek toy! It is so nice to have a soft blanket beside the pretty tree.
There are so many things to do and people to see to celebrate Christmas. We love all the visits and new toys, but always need naps so we can keep going! I hope you all had a great Christmas nap like I did and remembered to spend time with those you love!
Merry Christmas....
with love, Bode (Abbey and Blackey too)

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Check out this dog beach...

Fellow Canine's at play:

http://bit.ly/2ji3jV

It's Christmastime...

I love to keep an eye on the presents and Christmas tree! See how it sparkles? I know some of those gifts are for me, I just can't touch them! This is my favorite pillow in the house and Tara moved it by the tree....just for me (Well, Bode does try to take it when I get up!).

I think this is going to be my new Christmas tradition. Pillows by the sparkly tree, who could ask for anything more?

We have a tree at Delta Family Counseling (our office) too, but it is small and doesn't smell real. I don't like that one and stay away from it. I think Tara tried to trick our clients into thinking it is a real tree...I hope they know the difference! I wonder if other people have trees that aren't real? Do they sparkle just as much?

I wonder what other traditions people have for Christmas? One other tradition I know of is that we get to open Santa's presents on Christmas morning...that sure is a nice man to leave them for us! Bode, Blackey, and I asked for new soft toys. I think the boys really want those big "Bo-bo's", but I like the soft pretty toys that I can snuggle with.

Sweet dreams for Christmas!

Abbey

Monday, December 21, 2009

Santa is coming!

This was last year's picture, but I just love Christmas! We got a new tree this year and I have to make sure Blackey realizes this tree is different from the ones outside. We love to curl up on our pillow in front of the tree and look at the ornaments. Abbey and I are having fun teaching Blackey what Christmas is all about...we don't think he has every been able to properly celebrate Christmas. We hung up our stockings and are awaiting Santa's arrival. We know we are on the good list...Santa has to overlook those little accidents and barking at neighbors incidents, right?
At work the kids all keep wanting to talk about Christmas and not always their situations that lead to counseling, but we keep them on track! We have been busier than ever and are so glad people feel they can trust us. This week we have many clients to get in before Christmas and have lots and lots to talk about! There are many New Year's Resolutions for peace and happiness and we could not agree more!
Merry Christmas!
Bode

This week's adoptable dog...



Did you check out the Gulf Coast Humane Society to see Blackey's friends? If you aren't in our area, check out your local Humane Society to provide a forever home to a dog in need!



This week we want to introduce you to Rosie:


Rosie is a Great Pyrenees who is house trained and kid-friendly. Rosie is used to being in an only dog household. She loves life and wants to love you! Check her out at the Gulf Coast Humane Society's website: http://bit.ly/5uRiHM






Friday, December 18, 2009

AFSP Central Florida

We helped Tara write a quick article for AFSP Central Florida this month. You should check it out: Four-legged Survivors and Therapists: http://bit.ly/4zyeSV

The talents of other canines!

Check out this amazing story of a dog that was supposed to become a service dog, however her natural talents brought her to become a SURFice dog:

http://bit.ly/n2IUk

Monday, December 14, 2009

Help for fellow canines!

Abbey and Bode here...we decided to let Blackey help us blog and he decided he wants to feature himself and other dogs up for adoption at Gulf Coast Humane Society. Each week we are going to feature another dog (there are cats too, but we will focus on dogs) that needs a forever home!





Starting this week we have chosen Copper. More information can be found at: http://www.gulfcoasthumanesociety.org/.



The notes show that Copper is a cheerful little fellow. He loves everybody, loves to go for long walks, and get cuddles. He is a beagle/hound mix who is approximately 1 yr and 9 months old. He is housetrained and neutered. If you are thinking of adding to your family, consider Copper or one of his many friends at the shelter! (The shelter just told us to be sure to note that Copper doesn't do well with small children!)

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

No more meetings....


Meetings without clients are no fun! Tara took this picture during a committee meeting the other day. I wanted to go home because we didn't have any kids there. Do you ever feel like there are meetings after meetings in your life? Take a break...I did!
Sometimes we have to say "NO" and I have learned how! I am trying hard to teach Tara, but she doesn't always listen. Bode is learning too, but he hates missing things or thinking he is missing something going on!
No more meetings for me, because Tara knows I will sleep on the table if I am there!!
Sleepily yours,
Abbey

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Thanksgiving is an action word!


We have been busy preparing for Thanksgiving and good things to come! We are so thankful for those that read our blog and those whose lives we impact. Our team at Delta Family Counseling, LLC is amazing and the best co-workers we could ask for. We are particularly partial to Tara, but love when we get to see Robin and Julie!
Look for us more often in the community as we spread the word how how we can help! We are thankful for our jobs and the children we impact!
What are you thankful for? Tara is reinforcing in us how Thanksgiving is an action word...not just a hungry holiday (although we prefer the later). Hope you all enjoy your day of giving thanks!
Abbey and Bode!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Happy Veterans Day!

What a great land we live in! Freedom is taken for granted and we need to remember were we got it from. What does the flag mean to you?

We have so many family members that we can thank for protecting our country and many others out there!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Here is a quote we want to leave you with on this day of remembering:

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. ~Elmer Davis

With love,

Abbey and Bode

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Happy Halloween!



We are so excited to see the kids dress up this year! Hopefully there are not too many masks--that scares Abbey! We love seeing all the kids smile and have fun, while pretending to be something else. Halloween is truly a day of play!!

Don't forget to stay safe! Here are some tips (From the ASPCA) for our fellow four-legged friends on Halloween:

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowlful of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy.
*Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Symptoms of significant chocolate ingestion may include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst, urination and heart rate—and even seizures.
*Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol sweetener can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, which leads to depression, lack of coordination and seizures. In cases of significantly low blood sugar, liver failure has been known to occur.
*Ingesting tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage.

2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, yet they can produce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them. Intestinal blockage could even occur if large pieces are swallowed.

3. Keep wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet could experience damage to his mouth from shards of glass or plastic, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise extreme caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.

5. Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume can cause undue stress.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturale or donning a festive bandana.

7. Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treat visiting hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can increase the chances that he or she will be returned to you!

Enjoy the festivities! Abbey and Bode

Saturday, October 24, 2009

The end of the work week...

Do you love the end of the work week? We do! We love our work with the kids, but know that the weekends are important to our mental health! Tara took this picture Friday when one of our clients didn't show up. I grabbed my friend, Pooh Bear, and we drifted off to dream land together. Usually I have my bunny with me, but Pooh and I dreamed together.

Hopefully all of you enjoy your jobs as much as Abbey, Tara, and I do! If you don't, please reconsider what you do and find something that you value! Every job, no matter how big or small, can impact someone and you can provide that smile that someone has been looking for!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Bode

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Sad News...

I know we just blogged, but I feel like I need to share some things that are weighing on me. Do you ever feel like hiding in your bed (like I was above) and hiding from the news and the bad things that happen in our world? It seems like the news is so sad right now with all the trauma happening to so many.

We receive a lot of referrals for SW FL kids that are victims or witnesses to crimes and the numbers seem to be growing. We love working with these children and helping them play through the trauma they experienced to grow and be healthy adults. Trauma can be tough for everyone.

The latest news of the little girl from Orange Park, FL being found murdered is disturbing. Why would someone pick on an innocent child? What about the guy in Charlotte county accused of sexual abuse to an 18 month old?

What do you do to help children? Hiding in our beds doesn't help, but it does help to regroup and think! We are going to continue to advocate and bring awareness to protecting children!

*Abbey

Help is out there!

No matter what is going on in your life, there is help! Finding the right therapist is important and needs to match your needs. We love to be sure we match with our clients, however there are times that Abbey is better for one client and times where Bode is better.

Finding your need and meeting it is critical in self care! You only go to a doctor that you feel comfortable with, so why go to a therapist you don't?

We just recently learned how to help people find the right counselor! Do you know what to look for? First is get some word-of-mouth recommendations. Next find out if that counselor is a generalist or do they specialize in what you need. For example, we specialize in play therapy and pet-assisted therapy with children. Tara only takes continuing education for her work with kids!!

Next, interview them! At Delta Family Counseling, we call the interview an intake. This is where one of the therapists meets with you to be sure it is a good fit for both parties and the goals of counseling can be met.

There are many levels of therapists with very different backgrounds! Find out more about if a social worker, marriage and family therapist, mental health counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist is best for you! Let us know if you need any help!

Abbey and Bode

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Mmmmmm....chocolate!

I have a confession to make...today I stole a chocolate, chocolate chip muffin from Tara's bag. I have never stolen anything and never had chocolate before. I know why everyone loves it so much! It was delicious, but not worth the trouble I got in!

Did you know dogs shouldn't eat chocolate? Tara called the vet, but because I am so big, they just laughed and said they hoped I enjoyed it! Apparently at my size it takes one pound of chocolate to cause problems...although I doubt I will ever get any more!!

Chocolate is my new favorite food, what is yours?

Going to run around the yard and then off to bed!

Bode

Very inspiring!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIrDbzoOxZc

Rescue dogs rock!

Hi Everyone,

Check out this article that our friend, Theresa, with NASW shared: http://twi.cc/vxSq

We are both rescued from shelters and think that shelter dogs have a lot to offer! What do you think?

Off to work with lots of kids at Delta Family Counseling today!

Abbey and Bode

Sunday, October 18, 2009

New friends...

Check out the website of our new friends, PAWS for Love, in Collier County. We hope to have one of their service puppies do a guest blog soon! Here is their website:

Friday, October 16, 2009

Vacation

(Maggie Valley, North Carolina)
We returned from a quick road trip this week. What a great vacation get away! Abbey wasn't so sure about the long car ride but Bode loved the extra sleep! The mountains were beautiful and we go to go on lots of hikes and smell all sorts of things we have never smelled before!


Do you like to go on vacation? Where is your favorite spot?


Have a great weekend!


Abbey and Bode

Article shared with us...

http://www.sunonline.com/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=U0NDLzIwMDkvMTAvMTYjQXIwMTMwMg==&Mode=HTML&Locale=english-skin-custom

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Isn't this great?

Wouldn't it be great if it was this easy to get someone to talk about depression? We would love to read your thoughts on this picture that was found by our friend Virginia Cervasio with CARES Suicide Prevention:

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

I'm not listening to you....

Today a client made me MAD!! This is what I do when I pout...I suck on my bunny and want to be left alone!! We were playing nicely and she kept taking my bunny. She said everyone takes her stuff so she could take mine. I kept taking it back, but she didn't like it. She started to talk about her life of people breaking promises and keeping things that belonged to her. Even though I was mad, I think I helped her by showing it is ok to turn away from a bad situation.

I sat on this couch for much of the session because I just wanted my bunny to myself! Do you have times where you know something is yours and you need to keep it in reach? Why am I so attached to my bunny? It is a work bunny but I did not want to work anymore when she kept taking it from me. Tara said the bunny is my security blanket...what does that mean? Do you have one?

I need a nap.....

Bode

Dogs can help...

This article was shared with us and we thought we would share it with everyone else! Enjoy!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/06/health/06pets.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=exploriing%20health%20benefits%20of%20pets&st=cse

Monday, September 28, 2009

What's that in the mirror?

Have you ever noticed that piece of glass all around that shows you what you look like? Sometimes it startles me to see my reflection...is that what everyone sees? Can you really tell how I feel based on how I look? I am not sure how I feel about mirrors! They seem to be everywhere and everyone loves looking in them!

I am wondering if everyone likes them all the time? Today we were in session and our client constantly was looking in the mirror. He checked he faces and identified his feelings he was showing...."happy face", "made face", "scared' and more.

I noticed my ears and tail change places when I look in the mirror....I am not sure where I am going with this, but I am fascinated.

I am going to nap and ponder this mirror thing....

Good night!

Bode

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Good Listener


Have you ever heard someone say we have two ears for a reason? For me it's even important because I can't use human words, but I do understand them! This was one of those days where I did a lot of listening.
In the therapy room, it is our presence and ability to listen that is most important. The kids don't enjoy us because we can tell them how to change their situation, they request Bode and I in therapy because we help them process without talking. Many times individuals can solve situations that life brings their way on their own--they just need someone to listen while they self process!
Take some time to listen to those around you this week, you may be surprised at the outcome!

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Vote for Bode

Hi! Bode made it to week eight of a photo contest...take a minute to vote for him! He is too shy to ask himself, but as his sister, I can ask!


Lot's of love--Abbey!

Monday, September 14, 2009

2009 CARES PSA

Check out the CARES 2009 PSA. We weren't in it but think everyone sould view it! You can go direct to youtube as well: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6BxXaEBfMg

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Handcuffs, keyboards, swords, and more...


A day in the Delta Family Counseling play therapy room always surprises us! Yesterday's adventures were during my sessions (this is Bode)!


I was placed in handcuffs with Tara and got myself out of them! Sometimes the kids try to rescue us from the pretend bad guys, but today the child just said we were arrested for being "wild". I heard Tara talking with the parent and I think this kiddo go in trouble at school for being "wild". I didn't mind being handcuffed, but that was just the start...the session after wore me out!


The next kiddo was on sensory overload...seriously, none of the sensory tools worked! The sensory bag worked him up, as did the sensory balls. We spent most of our session in the dark as it calmed our client! The most fun was when I was taught to play the keyboard! Our client got out a guitar, accordion and keyboard. Tara had to play the accordion and he was using the guitar, but stated he was mad that I was not part of "The Band". Our client figured out how to get the keyboard to play by itself and it became my instrument! I loved to push my nose on the keys and add my own personal changes to the songs....lalalalalalalala! Jingle Bells made we wag my tail a lot...I think that is a Christmas song and I LOVE Christmas! Our band helped calm the child and he talked about his week in his songs!


Those are the highlights of yesterday...this may sound crazy and out there, but it sure did help these kids process their day! We learn something new every day!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Summer lovin....

I am so excited! I don't normally like the pool, but I went in tonight with Tara and have so much energy now! It was nice and cold....not sure if I will go in again, but not as bad as I remembered! I actually went in twice!!

Summer is quickly coming to an end this Labor Day weekend and we wish you a safe holiday with friends and family. Being in Florida, it is not near time to cool off, but school is back in and we have our sights on the cooler weather coming in the evenings (hopefully sooner than later so we can have the windows open).

Enjoy your last weekend of Summer and don't forget to play!!

With love, Abbey!

Monday, August 17, 2009

Come walk with us...



Out to Play!
Playing together to save lives...
Out to Play is made up of friends and family of Delta Family Counseling, LLC. Please join us in walking and raising money to save a life! Canine friends encouraged to participate as well!
Delta Family Counseling is in collaboration with CARES Suicide Prevention and wants to continue to raise support, educate the community, and save a life!

Join us and 0ur team in supporting CARES! You can walk with us, help us raise money, or do both for the 3rd Annual Survivors Stepping Out Walk on November 21st.

Every 17 minutes someone dies by suicide. It is the third leading cause of death for young people. You are the friend, relative, neighbor, co-worker, or acquaintance that could save a life.
Your support is needed so that CARES can continue to offer services FREE to the community and keep the only Suicide Prevention Resource Center open in SW Florida!

Come and play with us at Veteran's Park in Cape Coral on November 21st!

Click here to donate or join our team: http://www.active.com/donate/careswalk/outtoplay

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Celebrating life

Geoff and Tara are getting ready to go to a memorial service and we thought we would blog about this. People come in and out of our lives daily. Some my choice, others by chance. We never know the common factor of "why" we were apart of that person's life or when their time on Earth is up. This goes for animals too!

Celebrating someone's life is the most important part of a death. We are saddened by the loss, but need to remember the good times. When it is a tragic death, such as a suicide, we have many questions and do not clearly understand what is happening. This can happen to with natural death.

We, our family, has experienced many deaths lately and are focusing on the good. Just this month, Geoff''s "Pa" (grandpa) died; Steve (a friend of CARES and the service they are getting ready to go to; and our friend Jessica's mom a couple of days ago. Earlier this summer, we lost our canine friend Murphy and miss him dearly.

We remember our play dates with Murphy. We wish we could still have them, but know there was a reason he only had 4 years on Earth with Colleen and the rest of us.

As Geoff and Tara leave to celebrate Steve's life at this memorial service, we challenge you to reflect on those you love that have died and try and identify your favorite memory of that person or dog.

Sending love to everyone...

Abbey and Bode

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Vote for Abbey and Bode

Hi! We entered a cutest dog contest, but separately! Take a minute to vote for us and spread the word. This is our favorite picture of Abbey and we misclicked on the picture for Bode, but it is still cute!

http://www.cutestdogcompetition.com/vote.cfm?h=202097B426A8CDF3CED3D21A30D5DCC8

http://www.cutestdogcompetition.com/vote.cfm?h=5B82C27946E20E2B7F3E71D56A038B75

Thanks so much for voting for us!

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Settling down

We made it through the week and we are all settling down. Bode hasn't had a fever in 2 days--that is a huge accomplishment! We just hope it stays down and these new antibiotics are working.

Nathan got adopted yesterday by a high school friend of Tara's. He was renamed Kennedy and we know will have a great life with his new forever family! Blackey is sad that he still doesn't have a forever family but claims us as his own! He can stay here as long as he needs to, even if that is forever!

Tara has doctor's appointments this week and something called an MRI. She still has trouble with her knees and can't walk us, so we all hope this gets better soon!

Hopefully everyone has a calm week like we are hoping for!

Abbey and Bode

Monday, July 13, 2009

Sick again...



Just an update...Bode's infection is back! He has 104 degree fever that keeps going up and down and a swollen foot! The vet put him back on medication and he is zonked out, but sad he can't play or work with the rest of us! This is Bode asleep with his tongue out.




We also have a new foster pup, Nathan. He already has a potential adoptive home, but he has been fun for the weekend! He will be adopted Saturday, so we have the rest of the week with him!



What a week this will be!

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Friends...


We love friends, both human and our kind! Do you have both kinds of friends? This is Bode with our friend, Virginia. She runs CARES and we work a lot with her too! We love to help spread the word on hope and saving lives!
There is so much you can do with friends. We would love to hear what you all do with your friends!! We have a new friend at our house now, Nathan. He is very long and brown, but learning to adjust to us! He is also going to need a forever home! He and Blackey like it here a lot, but they want their own humans to love. We will post more on Nathan tomorrow with some pictures!
Enjoy your friends this weekend...we sure will!
Abbey and Bode!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Time together...

We love to spend time together! This picture was for the open house of the one year anniversary celebration of our counseling practice with CARES Resource Center. We met some great people and reconnected with those that we haven't seen in a long time!

With summer being in full swing, we want to remind everyone that it is fun to be with friends and family! There are so many things you can do during the summer months and many celebrations to be had!

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Monday, June 29, 2009

Rough day...


Hey it's Abbey!


Sorry for the delay, however Tara and Geoff went away and took the computer so we couldn't type! It is so great to have them back. We have had a rough day...Bode got a fever last night and we tried to cool him off, but it wouldn't go away. He is leaving the vet now with a confirmed fever, but not able to identify the cause! Tara is in bed too with both her knees giving out and waiting for the x-ray results to come back. Blackey, Geoff and I are doing great and we hope this week gets better with everyone feeling better....Bode doesn't want me to share it, but here is a picture of him with the cool washcloths on to help reduce his fever!
Still looking for a forever home for Blackey, if anyone knows anyone looking for a great dog!

Friday, June 19, 2009

Friends forever....


We love having friends over and taking over the beds in the house! The above picture is Abbey, Blackey, Bode, Baxter, and Rascal after running in the yard! We love to play hard and then rest together. It is so important to have forever friends that you can always be with and feel safe around!

Do you have forever friends? At Delta Family Counseling (our office) we have lots of friends that we hope are forever going to remember our play therapy work together. We also have friends we have made in our class and at networking events. Being called a dog is so not fitting, we really think we are human!

Have a fun, safe weekend filled with love and friends!

Abbey and Bode

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Freedom of the road....


Hi, Abbey here!


I just thought I would share with you one of my favorite places....the car. I love the car! I love watching other people and cars going by, sticking my head out the window, taking the car to greet the people at the bank, drive thru restaurants or to go to work or school!


I feel so free in the car. Nothing stands in our way (except for those pesky stop lights). The best car ride was going to Orlando...we just went fast and watched with barely any stopping! After a while, the car is relaxing and calming. I fall asleep sometimes and just listen to the radio!


Here is a picture of me on the way to class yesterday....I get in trouble sometimes for all those nose prints you see on the window :)

Abs

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Update on teaching...

It took us awhile to get to this post...sorry! We had such a good time, but had to help Tara catch up after being away, that we forgot to give the full update! As we previously posted, we attended the NASW-FL conference to represent our pet-assisted therapy work at Delta Family Counseling. We met 21 new friends in our workshop and many others in the lobby, at the hotel, and just being out and about!

Our workshop that we co-teach with Tara is "Lessons from Therapy Dogs....Life can be RUFF!". We talk about our work with the kids and how much we have taught Tara about the therapeutic profession. Topics such as compassion fatigue, setting limits, self care, and more are the focus. We think it's funny that we know all this and all the humans forget...maybe it's all that schooling that causes you to forget!

We love to share this information with people and remind them that they have to come first and be mentally healthy to work with their clients!

Tara is teaching this workshop again in August at the NOVA conference in Arizona, but it is too far and hard for us to travel that far...we hope to get another one close by that we can schedule!

Until next time....

Abbey and Bode

Monday, June 8, 2009

Another hotel picture


Just a quick update to show you what Delta Family Counseling, LLC dogs look like at the hotel! This is when Abbey was taking all the pillows in our room! More to come on the workshop later this week...

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Traveling...

We went on our first road trip this weekend. We weren't so sure about this but had fun! We got to teach a workshop at NASW-Fl (will post on that later this week). The car ride was fun, but we couldn't stop looking out the window. Then we got to this place that had a cozy bed, Tara called it a hotel. Hotels are fun, but there were a lot of strange noises that we were not so sure of!


We slept two nights in this hotel place and made new friends. There are many things to do at a hotel, but we were not allowed near some of the areas. We got to play on the playground when no kids were there and take pretty walks, but the room itself was our favorite.


Bode got cold a lot and Abbey claimed all the pillows. We hear we will be doing more of this traveling and hope that it will be fun! Our only complaint is that the lady at the rest stop was mean! She told us we couldn't be near the picnic area where Tara and Geoff were eating and said we had to stay in the car...the whole point was to stretch our legs, not Tara and Geoff's!


Here is a picture of Bode staying warm with all the hotel covers!


Enjoy your week!

Monday, May 25, 2009

Not so bad...

Wow, who knew having your own space could feel so good! I love to find new places to sleep and think this one is the best...it's Blackey's crate. I think it used to be mine, but I haven't used a crate in a really long time. With Blackey back, the crate is in the dining room and I LOVE IT!! Whenever Blackey isn't in it, I am curled up (just like this picture took). I feel safe in here and no one bothers me. Do you have a safe place? Do people think that your safe place is strange, yet you like it? Here is a picture of me in my new safe place!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Time has flown

Hi All!

Time has flown since our last post and we have been so busy. Do you ever feel like you can't catch up with time? We have so much going on and can only assume you all do to!

Where should we start? The biggest thing is that Blackey is back. For those of you that haven't been following our blog, Blackey was the first foster we took in. He is a great friend! We think some bad things happened to him at his adopted home, so we are glad to have him back and show him safety.

We have also been helping Geoff settle into his new job as CARES Program Director. There are many clients to see, so we are very busy helping others!

We are teaching a class in Orlando in three weeks and will share about that in our next post!

We will try to blog more often and apologize for the delay!

Abbey and Bode

Monday, April 20, 2009

Great News for Those in Need!

From: The DOGSWELL® Bow-Wow Bailout

As we all know, a lot of people have lost their jobs or had their hours or pay cut because of this economic crisis. The sad part is that more and more families are forced to turn their pets into shelters because they simply cannot afford them any more. DOGSWELL® has decided it is time to give back!

Beginning April 15th, DOGSWELL® will be launching The DOGSWELL® Bow-Wow Bailout.DOGSWELL® is committed to providing up to 10,000 free bags of DOGSWELL® dry foodfor dogs, one per household, to those that have lost their job, taken a pay cut or had their hours cut due to this economic downturn. We are doing everything we can to ensure that more pets stay in their homes. We will also be attaching a coupon to each bag sent out for use at a local independent pet retailer so they can replenish their supply at a deep discount.

The details . . .The DOGSWELL® Bow-Wow Bailout will last from April 15th through May 15th. Applicants must fill out a redemption form. This form can be found at www.dogswell.com, by emailing bailout@dogswell.com or calling 888.559.8833. Redemption forms can be submitted via email - bailout@dogswell.com, fax - 877.730.7877, or mail - DOGSWELL®, Attn: Bow-Wow Bailout, 1964 Westwood Blvd. Ste. 350, Los Angeles, CA 90025.

We are really excited to give something back and thank you for helping us spread the word!For complete Terms and Conditions, please see our website www.DOGSWELL.com.If you have any questions, please feel free to email bailout@dogswell.com or callDOGSWELL® at 888.559.8833.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Happy Easter!

We want to wish everyone a very Happy Easter! It is amazing to see the sense of family and community in the neighborhood today. Children are hunting for Easter Eggs, families are gathering for feasts, and there are smiles abound!

Remember your canines today and don't let us get to the candy or food--it could hurt us--no matter how hard we beg! Tara and Geoff always have special treats that we can have so we don't feel so left out! Bode's favorite's are "ice-cookies" and Abbey love pieces of Bode's food:) For those that don't know, "ice-cookies" are pieces of ice out of the door dispenser!

Enjoy the special day and remember the reason for celebrating!

Abbey and Bode!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Happy Birthday, Abbey!

Yesterday was Abbey's birthday. She turned 4! What a great day for her! Tara took her to the dog bakery where she picked out cookies for all of us and then at night we enjoyed them. Yum yum!

It is so great to spend birthday's with those you love. We had a lot of ups and downs yesterday though, too. Zoe left and we didn't get to say good-bye to her. I think I am having the hardest time with this. I loved having someone my size to play with and we wrestled and ran and napped together! I definitely am missing her and pouted some of the day.

Tara took her to the vet and she never came back! The lady at the vet fell in love with her and asked to adopt her, at least that is what I heard the humans saying. I loved her too, but there was a lot of dog in our house with the three of us and our sizes. I wish I could see her, play, and say good-bye. It is always hard to say good-bye!

Oh boy, it is hard to have days with good and bad things in them! Onward to today...

Bode

Sunday, March 29, 2009

We did it!

Just thought we would share our success in teaching! It was so much fun and now we know what to expect when we do it again in Orlando in June! Lesson from Therapy Dogs....Life can be RUFF! went great! Abbey slept through portions and Bode couldn't get enough attention! We had great feedback and the attendees told us things we taught them about themselves and their practice that they didn't realize.

Our favorite exercise is the Thank You Circle! No matter what profession you are in, you never hear thank you enough. This goes for family life too. There are many times we take for granted what is going on and don't remember that a simple thank you can go so far!

Thank you to all who read this and thank you to those that let us teach you!

Abbey and Bode

Thursday, March 26, 2009

We are teaching tomorrow...

We are so excited to teach our first workshop. We have everything packed and have been practicing. Tara seems very nervous, but we just keep packing more and more toys. Abbey heard Tara say there are no kids there, we aren't sure what that means but can't wait to show off! Bode is trying his best to practice not giving all adults hugs unless they ask.

We think we are ready! Have you ever had to speak or present? Maybe it will be scary, but we think it will be nothing but fun.

Wish us luck, our presentation is called: Lessons from Therapy Dogs...Life can be RUFF!

Abbey and Bode

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Foster or more...


It's Abbey again, but Bode is with me. We forgot to announce our new foster dog. Zoe came to live with us on Sunday. She is a Boston Great Dane and so nice. She had a very rough year where she was hurt by the other dogs in her home.

Zoe is settling right in and sharing our couches and beds with us. Zoe is afraid of many things and we are all working with her to show her what is safe. I think those other dogs really caused some fear in her. Zoe and Bode love to run in the back yard (Tara calls them figure 8's). I like to get out of there way and cuddle with them when they are done!

I heard some talk that we may adopt her. I would be ok with this since we all love each other very much and Zoe has had a really hard life.--she even has scars to prove it! Bode likes having someone bigger than him...yes that is right, Zoe is actually bigger than Bode! They both weigh the same, but she is taller and longer.

I hope that there are more people out there that are fostering kids and dogs and helping them find their forever place in someones heart!

Abbey...and Bode too!

Yucky feelings...


Hi, it's Abbey!


I am still recovering from getting my teeth cleaned. What an adventure! I had to sleep during it and the medicine made me feel really funny? Have you ever felt yucky from medicine?


I am so glad Tara got to stay with me because I get scared really easy. As I was starting to fall asleep I got to sit on her lap and doze off. I couldn't even get my legs to work. After I took awhile to open my eyes, but was so glad to see Tara. I tried to walk to her but I couldn't move. We came home and Zoe and Bode were so nice to me. They kept checking on me and laying on the couch with me.


My mouth feels great and I got to eat homemade chicken and rice yesterday and today, but boy I don't want to take that medicine again!


I hope everyone that has to take yucky feeling medicine has someone they love with them like I did!


Abbey

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Too Cool...

Hey it's Bode! I know we just posted a welcome to Julie, however I wanted to let you know about something I have learned. I have learned how to exert my power and say "No". That's right, I will now shake my head "no" if I do not want to do what you ask of me.


Tara seems a little worried about this, but it did shock some of our clients and help therapeutically (Tara always uses that word). She said I implemented this power appropriately with a couple of clients but she seems worried I may just start to say "no" to everything. I would never say "no" to cookies and love...but we'll have to see how else this new trick plays out!


I wonder what else I can learn that will surprise our clients, and Tara too....hmmmm.....


While I was exerting my coolness, I tried on Geoff's sunglasses and got caught by a picture. Abbey is making me post it. Enjoy!


Bode

Welcome!

We are so excited to announce a new counselor at our office! Julie Corbin has joined us at Delta Family Counseling. Julie started this week and will be helping us see all the kids in need of someone to talk and play with.

Welcome, Julie!

Abbey and Bode

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Celebrations

It's March and there seem to be so many celebrations happening! Bode's birthday was February 1st, mine is coming on March 31st, and there are many things that the humans keep going to. We are learning that because we have 4 legs, we are not always welcomed at these places. We are ok with some of this, but know we are missing fun somewhere--Tara says that we would not have fun at some of them! We had to go stay with Gracie and Dante this weekend because Tara and Geoff were at a wedding for Chad, he is our friend too. Weddings sound boring to me, so I am ok with this. We had a lot of fun with our play date weekend but are glad to be home and catching up on snuggling time!

I am wondering what everyone else thinks about celebrations--do you have a favorite or a least favorite? I think birthdays are my favorite because we get special treats with yogurt frosting on them--yum!

Now I am really excited for my birthday!
Abbey

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Beach Day!


We had to share our experience today...we learned what the beach is! It is amazing and relaxing! There are so many things to do and smell. We loved the sand and looking at the water, but we were sure it was trying to get us. People smiled at us and we smiled back...oh what fun!

We are amazed how close this beach place is to our house and plan to go again and walk there. Our paws loved the feel of the sand instead of concrete or grass. The whole experience was great and our smiles showed it.

We highly recommend going to the beach to de-stress!


Abbey and Bode

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Blackey got a home!

One more thing...

Abbey and I forgot to announce that the same day I got my head wrapped up from my boo-boo, we found Blackey (our first foster) a forever home! He was so happy and it seems like a great family!

In the two weeks we had him, we really loved him but knew it wasn't forever. We are so proud of Geoff and Tara for finding him a forever home to be loved as much as we are. We are taking a break and then will get our next foster. More news on that when it happens! Blackey was in the shelter 15 months before we got him and then in two short weeks, we were able to successfully place him! We are proud of this quickness, and I think the shelter is too!

Thanks for your support with him and we will let you know who is next so you can help us find that dog a forever home too!

Bode

Back to work...


Hey there readers!

It has been some time since we posted and that is mainly because life and time got away from us. I had a major boo-boo...see picture...and I am finally able to work and socialize with everyone again. I think I began to feel depressed because Tara and Geoff wouldn't take me out any where. I was mad about not working and slept a lot. I know it was the doctor's rule, but I don't care...I want to work all the time! It is really hard when we like to do something and can't do it! I am sure everyone knows what that is like. At least I am feeling better and my ear is healed so I can be more successful.

I went yesterday to see some kids, but I also learned that I was feeling a 100% yet and slept most of the sessions. At least I got out! I am ready to be off these antibiotics. Tara thought she outsmarted me by hiding them in cheese and then ham, but I spit them back out! I keep getting peanut butter twice a day and she tells me good job, but I know there is no medicine in the peanut butter....or could there be?

Abbey and I are going to try to be better about posting...sorry for our distance!
Bode

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Bode is 3 today!!!!!!!!!!1

Happy Birthday, Bode!

Today we had a birthday celebration for his 3rd birthday. Actually, we picked this day as his birthday because no one really knows when it is--but don't tell that to Bode! We all, Blackey, Bode, and I, got treats from the Dog Bakery and they were delicious! Bode ate his the fastest and Blackey acted like he had never had one before, which is quite possible!

It was such a good day! We got to run and play, watch the Superbowl...the real one and the puppybowl, and sleep on whatever furniture we wanted! Bode sprawled out on the maser bed and I took a loveseat with Blackey on the outside couch!

What does everyone else do for their Birthday's? Mine is coming up in March...I wonder what is planned for that....

Alright time to finish sleeping through this Superbowl thing!

Abbey

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

We don't eat these, but in case you do....

Posted on our news site...a recall for dog cookies...be sure to remove from your house if you have them!

FLORIDA: Pet Smart is voluntarily recalling dog biscuits because of potential salmonella contamination.
Seven varieties of Great Choice dog biscuits are being recalled because they contain peanut paste made at the same facility that's been linked to a salmonella outbreak.
It’s important to note that so far none of the biscuits have tested positive for salmonella.
The recall is being issued as a precaution only.
Salmonella is a bacteria found in raw meats, poultry and eggs. It also can be found in some reptiles, small pets and animal feces. It’s spread by contact between one of these sources and another product or human.
For more information, please contact your doctor, visit CDC website at www.cdc.gov or FDA website at www.fda.gov.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

We are family....

We have great news....we are now a foster family! We have a new dog in our house, "Blackey". He is looking for a permanent home and gets to stay with us until they find him one! Here he is:

Blackey has been in the shelter for a long time as his owner died. He is very lovable! He is getting along with all 4 of us (Abbey, Bode, Geoff, and Tara). He mastered the doggie door after 2 tries and knows lots of commands! He gets to stay at our house until we find him a good home...if you are interested, please let us know so we can help him become your new friend!

Abbey and I can't wait to help all these other pups find good homes like we have, and share ours until that happens!

We will post more pictures, when we take them!

Abbey and Bode!

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Arts and me...

Another first for me...this is Abbey! I went to the art festival on Sunday. What a fun time that was! I got to meet other dogs and people while Geoff and Tara kept looking at "things". I have never been pet by so many kids in such a short time...it was great!

We got to walk around, a lot! People had places for me to drink water with other dogs and I even got to see some dogs that need a home. There are so many that don't get a good place to live and I wish we could help them all! Any how, the art festival! There was so many yummy smells and I think I ate lots of things I wasn't supposed to--thanks to all who drop while they eat :)

Tara and Geoff got many compliments on how well behaved I am and how well I listen to them. The kettle korn lady said she wanted to have a dog like me at home! I had so much fun!

There were a few times when it was really crowded and my tail went in--I felt like I was going to lose Geoff and Tara (I always forget they hold that leash thing on me). I did good healing and even some vendors stopped to chat. Everyone kept saying, "she is so pretty, what is she?" I wonder what that means...can't I just be an Abbey? Some said I looked like a character from Dr. Seuss...what's that? Tara told my story of rescue and being a lemon beagle...at least the thought I was pretty!

I hope you all had a fun weekend too!
~Abbey