Scottie Connection Blog

09/06/2010

Tucker's Unknown Have the courage to do what you cannot. Test your limits and endurance. Eliminate the fear of the unknown, From the light of the present day. Break through the unknown, And you will enter another world. You will become stronger, And above all, You will become more successful! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/02/2010

AKC SANCTIONED "B" MATCH BY SCOTTISH TERRIER CLUB OF NEW ENGLAND Tucker highly recommends that you join the members of the Scottish Terrier Club of New England for this event on Sunday, September 19, at the Little Rhody Vasa Park Clubhouse, 10 Boswell Trail, Foster, RI 02825. THE SCHEDULE 9:30 AM: match Registration 10:30 AM: Parade of Rescues 11:00 AM: Halloween Costume Contest 12:00 PM: Conformation "B" Match 1:00 PM: Health Clinic and Lunch CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER DETAILS. Get the bagpipes and Tartan Plaids out, you will have a great time at this event!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/01/2010

Tucker's Dream Dream by Tucker Run where the brave dare not go. Try when your legs are too weary. Reach as high as the celestial star. Follow it forever. Be true to yourself and others. Be honest to a fault. Always fight for the right. No matter how unpopular. Be willing to accept the scars of battle. With time, they will heal. Your heart and soul will always be unscarred. Keep reaching for that celestial star! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/26/2010

Tucker's Belief If you believe, Anything is possible. Inspiration from the mind matters. The mind provides the food for achievement. Keep moving toward something. Even if you do not know what it is. Because when you find it, You will learn from it. Aim for the highest of highs. By not doing so, You will certainly fall short. Under-achievement is no achievement at all. Never think that you best is good enough. You can always do better in some way. Improve yourself in every way. But above all, believe, believe, believe!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/20/2010

TUCKER ON WINNING It is neither near nor far. It might be in front or rear. Go out and strive for it. Be relentless in pursuit of it. When you are weary and exhausted. Continue to fight for it. Give up everything in search of it. Empty the strength of your heart and soul for it. Do not allow weakness to distract you. When you have fully exhausted yourself, You will see it over the horizon. Grasp it now and forever. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/16/2010

CAN YOU TEACH BAD DOGS TO BE GOOD? Tucker says any dog can be taught good behavior. To prove this point, go no further than the 51 pit bulls that were seized from Bad News Kennels in April 2007 in Smithfield, VA. All of these dogs belonged to Michael Vick at the time, and each was subjected to the fighting ring. All of Vick's dogs were given a second chance, thanks to $1 million that was set aside to rescue and rehabilitate as many of the dogs as possible. The story of what became of the "most vicious dogs in the United States" can be found at... A SECOND CHANCE FOR THE VICK-TIMS. All of Vick's dogs are now living in foster homes with other pets and some, with children. Tucker says this is a great story that everyone should be aware of. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/11/2010

PET FOOD RECALL LINKED TO SALMONELLA OUTBREAK IN PETS AND HUMANS As you know, Tucker is ever vigilant when it comes to pet health issues, especially dog food recall and contamination matters. Recently, The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) has issued a voluntary recall for some varieties of Iams and Eukanuba dry dog and cat food. SEE FDA RECALL LIST. Anyone who has purchased this food should stop feeding it to their pet immediately. Although pets are fairly resistant to Salmonella-related disease, affected pets may show decreased appetite, fever, lethargy, vomiting, abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. Humans should avoid contact with suspect food and follow strict hand washing procedures. Most recently, this same dry dog and cat food has been linked to a Possible Salmonella Outbreak in Humans. Half of the infections have struck children. Tucker suggests that if you have young children in your home, do not allow them to handle any dry dog or cat food. For more information, SEE CDC BULLETIN. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/09/2010

Tucker's Character Character by Tucker I am what I am. I walk and act proud. My bark can be heard by all. My stare incites fear in all. I am a Scottish terrier. I fear nothing. I give everything. I live for the challenge of the day. No path cannot be walked. No Forest can find me lost. No man can control me. No stair cannot be climbed. The park is my playground. The day is my bone. The hour is my moment. The now is my time. I live for now. I enjoy each nuance. I smell the flowers. I see the sunshine. For I am Tucker. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/05/2010

Is your Scottish Terrier Happy? How tuned in are you to your Scottie's inner feelings? Many suppose that when their Scottie wags his tail, it means that he is happy. But we all know that our Scotties are very sensitive, and most of the time it is difficult to discern what is going on. Oh yes, when the teeth come out, and the ear-piercing bark is expressed, we get the immediate hint that something is going on. Scotties in many ways are much more expressive that many other breeds. They are very demanding, determined and expressive. During these moments, their "call to action" usually elicits the correct response from us. However, our Scotties can be very stoic, as well. They, therefore, can appear to be content, but such behavior can actually mask something serious. Tucker, our soon to be 13 year-old Highlander, is generally a happy fellow. We generally stick to our daily routine and, by doing so, he feels that he is in control of the agenda, and that he is getting what he wants. We pay very close attention to what he eats - we boil his food - and we make sure that his stool is normal in both size and substance. Generally speaking, Tucker expects to receive good homemade food, plenty of exercise, an abundance of sleep and rest, and a bountiful amount of love. He is happy when all of this happens according to his plan, and becomes slightly agitated when his rule book is not followed to the letter. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/01/2010

Tucker's Touch Touch by Tucker Keep life interesting. Provide me with challenges each day. They make the day go by like no other. They allow me to romp and play in every way. When it is hot and cold outside, Keep me protected from the extremes. Allow my spirit to never be broken. Allow my soul to live forever. I give my all to you each day. And will until my final breath. My dear friend, you are the center of my universe. Let's always stay in touch. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/28/2010

SUMMER HEATSTROKE WARNING FOR YOUR PET Dr. Tucker says beware of summer heat, especially if you have an older pet. At temperatures above 85 degrees F, especially when the humidity is high, monitor your dog very carefully. Common signs of heatstroke include: Rapid breathing and increased heart rate. Discolored gums. Dogs experiencing heat stroke will have dull gray or pink gums instead of the red-pink color that normally exists. Disorientation. Dogs may not be aware of their environment. Refusal to obey commands. Most dogs, especially younger ones, are not very smart about the heat. While at a park, they may keep playing fetch, even though they may be close to collapsing. An older dog on the other hand, may take the ball and find the nearest tree to play with it in the shade. Listen to and monitor your dog while out in the heat. Watch how your dog pants. If your dog is panting with the sides of his mouth wide open, he needs a rest. If the panting does not stop in 5 minutes, your pet is too hot. Spray or pour water no him, and take him to a cool area immediately. Dr. Tucker says the bottom line in the heat of the summer is to minimize exposure to the heat, and always have plenty of water with you to cool down your pet when needed. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/23/2010

DR. TUCKER'S FLEA AND TICK WARNING In 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency received over 44,000 reports of harmful reactions associates with commercial flea and tick products.Reactions ranged from skin irritations to vomiting to seizures to, in about 600 cases, death of an animal. Advantage, Frontline and BioSpot are all guilty. If you can avoid these products, your pet will be a lot healthier than if you subject them to the harmful poisons and chemicals contained in them. If you insist on using them, consult your veterinarian first. There are many holistic remedies to the flea and tick problem that you can use that are not harmful to your pet's immune system, and are effective in flea and tick protection. Brewers Yeast and Garlic are among them. The EPA's evaluation of Spot On products is available for anyone to read. Here is pesticide information from the EPA's Website! TUCKER has always been very healthy. He wants your pets to enjoy a very long life!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/18/2010

TUCKER'S EARTHDOG EXPERIENCE When Tucker was 2 years old, he decided that he wanted to attend an Earthdog practice session sponsored by the Scottish Terrier Club of New England. He knew that he would meet many different canine and human friends, and there would be plenty of food and treats available, as well. Well, Tucker had a grand time of it. He tried his paw at tunnel navigation, and found many rewards in the form of delicious treats. He also had a great time frolicking through the woods with his new found friends. Well, the Scottish Terrier Club of New England is having an Earthdog Practice Session on Saturday, July 24, 2010. Join John McNabney and friends at 9:00 AM in Harwinton, CT for a great day of fun and excitement. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/15/2010

TUCKER'S VERY SAD, BUT INSPIRATIONAL STORY Susan Baron, a survivor of a brutal, senseless and devastating 2007 knife attack on the streets of New York while walking her dog, Velvet, a Scottish terrier, lost her Scottie to cancer on July 8, 2010. Almost three years following the attack, Susan has undergone 13 reconstructive surgeries on the road to recovery, but the loss of Velvet, her soul mate and source of great emotional support, has been a real blow to Susan. As members of the Scottish Terrier Community, we all know how strong the bond becomes between humans and their Scotties. Tucker says that Susan's remarkable story is both miraculous and inspirational. Tucker would like everyone to send Susan a message about her bond with Velvet, and our hope for her full recovery. Tucker says God Bless Susan. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/13/2010

DR. TUCKER'S SUMMER SAFETY TIPS Tucker says that the long days of summer pose a long list of dangers for our pets, from sizzling asphalt to dog-park bullies to pesticides to drowning. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe. NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN THE CAR. Leave your pet at home! ALWAYS KEEP YOUR PET LEASHES. This will keep your pet out of trouble. WATER, WATER, WATER Have plenty of it around. WATCH OUT FOR ANTIFREEZ This is toxic, do not let your pet drink any of it. USE EXTRA CAUTION ON HUMID DAYS Humidity interferes with your pet's ability to rid themselves of excess body heat. This is especially true for elder pets. BE MINDFUL OF HEATSTROKE If your pet is panting heavily, vomiting, experiencing a rapid heart beat, these are signs of possible heatstroke. Immediately cool your pet down...wrap in a cool towel, and get to a veterinarian immediately. PREVENTION is all about knowing what to do when trouble finds you!!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/09/2010

Tucker's Wonderful Day Wonderful Day by Tucker Each day brings wonders. They are unpredictable. A ray of sunshine Can bring inspiration. A dark cloud Can bring sadness. Every day is welcome. They each come one at a time. No day is exactly the same. No matter how mundane the task. Each day is wonderful in it's own way. The elements may be harsh, But the experience may be glorious. The weather may be bright and ebullient, But the journey rough. No matter. Keep them coming. Hopefully there will be many more. For they are all wonderful. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/06/2010

Tucker's Hot Weather Advice The summer has arrived, and alone with it, comes the heat and humidity. Over exposure to heat and humidity can be very dangerous for our beloved Scottish terriers. Dehydration and exposure to extreme temperatures can be lethal. Remember, our Scotties do not sweat, and therefore, are much less efficient at cooling down. Add to that a permanent thick black coat of hair and you realize that even relatively mild days can be uncomfortably challenging for our dear Scotties. We must be especially careful with older Scotties. Make sure that you always have plenty of water with you where ever no matter where you go. On a very humid day, a short run in the park can be a very dehydrating experience, especially for an older Scottie. Be vigilant, and carefully watch for symptoms of Heat Stroke and heat Exhaustion. The symptoms include: - Excessive panting - Rapid heartbeat - Vomiting - Diarrhea - Unconsciousness If you detect or observe any of these symptoms, you must take immediate action. You must quickly immerse your Scottie with cool water, and transport him to your veterinarians. Other advice on dealing with the heat: Heat Stroke Hyperthermia in Dogs Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/04/2010

Tucker's Patriotism Patriot by Tucker For good and bad, my country before all else. Without America, we would not be free. A family in bondage Is not free to choose. We can speak freely. We can fix what is wrong. We can fight for what is right. We can defend what is dear. We can think the unimaginable, And can achieve the unthinkable. Our country is full of hope, Not despair. She will bend, But not break. She will bleed, But not die. We are Americans, And have the world's greatest gift. Our country. Go patriots. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/01/2010

A Missive on Take by Tucker Take by Tucker Take a moment. Or two. They are precious few. Take that brief escape. Take time to think. Take a respite from a hectic day. Seize control of now and what lies ahead. By taking a moment to contemplate. Take action. But make it thoughtful. Take rest. But make it needed. Above all else. Take care of yourself. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/27/2010

Tucker's Muffin Attack If you are owned by a Scottish terrier, you understand that each and every day is both an adventure and challenge. Expect the unexpected, because it will happen. Well, our Sunday began as most do. After finishing his morning meal, Tucker took me our for my first walk, after which I go to the grocery store to get his groceries. Pat always gives me a list of things to pick up for Tucker - organic carrots, brown rice, organic eggs, marrow bones and ground beef. On the list are a couple of things for us - ginger ale, Thomas' Whole Wheat English Muffins and orange juice. Tucker is always waiting for me on the porch when I return from the store. He is especially eager to try a new marrow bone and, just to be sure that I understand that he starts his Aaaaarrrrroooooooo as soon as I start unpacking the groceries. This is a genuine highlight for him. As soon as I give the bone to Tucker, he takes it to the dining room where he begins sampling its delights. Tucker has me trained to call him back into the kitchen by employing the word "treat." He immediately strolls into the kitchen, drops the bone at my feet, and sits awaiting his organic treats. This routine is rigidly adhered to each day. Following this event, both Pat and I started packing the merchandise that had been ordered from the previous day. Following that, Pat was in the home office printing the shipping labels from the USPS Website, and I was in the basement looking for a shipping box. When I returned to the kitchen, I found Tucker doing something that he had never done before. He was eating all of the Thomas' English Muffins. I had left some of the grocery bags, as I normally do on the floor. Tucker usually leaves then alone. As long as he gets his marrow bone, he is in a state of contentment. But, not this time. So today, Tucker had his cholesterol free, high fiber, 0 trans fat, low fat, 100% whole wheat muffins for the first time ever. I am not sure if Thomas' would accept a product endorsement from Tucker, since he is a Scottish terrier, but based on his initial tasting, I would say that he is pleased with the product and, if ever the opportunity for another tasting should arise, I am certain that Tucker would leap at the chance. Always be on your toes. There is a surprise in a Scotties every day. Enjoy it. They are treasures. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/22/2010

Ubiquitously Happy, Our Tucker. There has never been a day in the life of Tucker, our inspirational Scottish terrier, where he has not been happy. This state of being comes from the Scottie soul, but with Tucker, it is derived from his zest for life. Perhaps it is because he carefully sees the flowers that bloom at his feet, rather than being obsessed with unimportant material things. I am certain that Tucker does not wake up each day in the pursuit of happiness. Rather, it is through what he does and who he does it with that brings happiness to him. The tides of Tucker's mind fill him with great happiness each day. He is content with who he is, where he is and whom he is with. Learn from your Scottie. They have so much to share with us all! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/17/2010

Scottie Fun and Games Join Scotties from all over New England and their human friends for a day of fun and games sponsored by The Scottish Terrier Club of New England on Saturday, June 19 at the Silver City Canine Training Center in Taunton, MA. It will be a great day of fun and games!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/14/2010

EXPLORE BY TUCKER Make your own path. Do not travel the well worn road. There is always something new to discover. Fear not the unknown. Push away the clouds. Ignore the wind. Seek sunshine, And a rainbow. Imagine what is not, And make something new happen. Rush to discovery. Walk to the sunlight. Let the stars be your guide. Let them capture your curiosity. The journey is exciting. The destination is the reward. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/11/2010

TUCKER'S PET FOOD RECALL WARNING Tucker has discovered a new U.S. Food and Drug Administration Recall of Merrick Beef Filet Squares Dog Treats. These are very popular treats, but the 10 oz. bags, lot #9323, and a Use Before Date of November 19, 2011 should not be purchased. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/07/2010

SHINE BY TUCKER Do not let the day get you weary, Or small. Do not let tears drop from your eye, Hope will dry them all. When you are down, And a friend cannot be found. Move yourself above the fray. Make the hurt go away. Do not let darkness surround you. Look for the light. Grasp it. Your time to shine will come. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/04/2010

A Dream by Tucker Dad and mom are always kind Their voices are always inviting Sometimes firm, but always loving This dream is a daily event. I dream this dream will continue I dream their love will forever be As the days pass, I continue this dream Because it is what keeps my heart beating. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/01/2010

Tucker's Merriment Merry by Tucker Merriment. The day may be overcast. Do not dwell on the weather. A day is what you make of it. No matter what the clouds bring. Be merry. We may not meet again. So, remember the fun, And forget the rain. Try music on a cloudy day. It will fill your heart with emotion and joy. Let your head and heart be filled with music. It will allow you to escape the weather. Let your merriment touch someone. Allow them to experience pure joy. Enjoy it forever, Or capture it for now. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/25/2010

WALK BY TUCKER Walk through the day without fear. Let no one interfere with your plan. Others will become distracted from their goal. Even those more talented than you. Do not fear darkness. Prepare to walk through any and all storms. Turn your heart and soul on, For they are the engines of change. Hold your head above the clouds. Walk tall and straight. You can overcome anything. Achieve your dreams. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/21/2010

EVERYONE BY TUCKER The sun belongs to everyone. The day belongs to everyone. The best things in life are ever-present. They are within reach for you and me. The trees belong to everyone. The ocean belongs to everyone. They are free to you and me. Seize them and never let them go. The moon belongs to everyone. The earth belongs to us all. They do not cost a dime. Appreciate them and do not abuse them. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/17/2010

Somewhere by Tucker Somewhere in this world, On the planet earth, There is a country I heard of, Each and every day. Somewhere in this world, The sky is brilliant and bright, And the hopes of many, Really do come true. Somewhere in this world, There is a land of hope and courage, Where people are free, And all are given opportunity. Somewhere in this world, There is a nation, That is a beacon to all, That is where you will find me and all who have hope. Somewhere in this world is America!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/13/2010

THOUGHTS BY TUCKER Many thoughts are not what they seem, Some come from dreams, Others fly away, Yet others linger. All have meaning, In the fertile puzzle of life. Some return for further clarification. Others disappear forever. Let your dreams become reality. Become your dreams, For they are your greatest thoughts. Always look ahead for inspiration! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/10/2010

OUTLOOK BY TUCKER May you be able to walk a long and winding road For your life shall depend upon it. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/05/2010

JOY BY TUCKER Every day, Do not hesitate, Say what your soul says, Let it out. You are your soul. So let it out. Even if blue, Or sad. Let your soul invite joy. You can change your soul, And embrace joy. Open your heart to it. Joy is never far away. But, you must seek it. Once found, You will have found yourself. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/01/2010

04/28/2010

TUCKER'S WORDS OF INSPIRATION WHEN YOU ARE DOWN, PICK YOURSELF UP, AND NEVER LOOK BACK! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/23/2010

DREAM BY TUCKER Every day, Search high and low, Leave no stone unturned. Make every move count. Follow your dreams, Let the rainbow be your guide, Leave no road untraveled. Let no one stop you. You dream needs, Your unending attention. Don't let it escape. Let it forever guide you. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/19/2010

Do Not Fear by Tucker Never fear the dark. Face it each day, And overcome it. You can conquer it. Hold hope in your heart. Walk with someone each day. Walk forward. Walk forward. Seek the sunshine. Reach for it. You will catch it. The beautiful golden sky. Let your dreams be realized. Never fear the dark. For where there is darkness, There is light! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/15/2010

IMAGINE BY TUCKER DO NOT WAIT. IT MAY BE TOO LATE. HALF A CHANCE, IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED. ALL IT TAKES IS IMAGINATION. BE NOT CONCERNED ABOUT FAILURE. LET THE BLOWS GO UNNOTICED. ALLOW THE DUST TO FALL TO THE GROUND. THE LAST SHALL BE STANDING, AND THEY SHALL BE US!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/09/2010

FREEDOM BY TUCKER Into the valley of death, America finds itself. Forward America, You must go! Challenge to the right, Adversity to the left, Prosperity not far away. The guns blast, The bombs drop, The fallen vanish. The wounded survive. America's soul rode to confront adversity, The free fight bravely, The mindless run for cover. Freedom can never be surrendered. No matter how many times we ride into hell!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/05/2010

Tucker's Advice HERE IS TUCKER'S ADVICE FOR TODAY. No matter how daunting the road ahead appears, Stay on course, Avoid distractions, And endure the journey, No matter how difficult. The sun will ultimately shine on you!!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/01/2010

TUCKER'S FLEA AND TICK WARNING In 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency received over 44,000 reports of harmful reactions associates with commercial flea and tick products.Reactions ranged from skin irritations to vomiting to seizures to, in about 600 cases, death of an animal. Advantage, Frontline and BioSpot are all guilty. If you can avoid these products, your pet will be a lot healthier than if you subject them to the harmful poisons and chemicals contained in them. If you insist on using them, consult your veterinarian first. There are many holistic remedies to the flea and tick problem that you can use that are not harmful to your pet's immune system, and are effective in flea and tick protection. Brewers Yeast and Garlic are among them. The EPA's evaluation of Spot On products is available for anyone to read. Here is pesticide information from the EPA's Website! TUCKER has always been very healthy. He wants your pets to enjoy a very long life!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/30/2010

TUCKER'S THOUGHT FOR TODAY! TUCKER SAYS..."You have no right to give up on something you have begun!!!" Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/26/2010

Tucker's Inspiration May every Scottish terrier, Experience unknown joy, Each and every evening, A bright sun showing the way each day, And always a warm, inviting home, Behind each and every door!!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/23/2010

Tucker's Prayer When the day is filled with shadows, Pray for light and sunshine. Inspire us with guidance, And take us to a wonderful place. Answer our faith and prayers, Send us to a safe place. We shall pray for safety and inspiration. Each day our soul seeks your guidance. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/18/2010

EPA Warning on Pet Flea and Tick Treatments Several hundred dogs and cats die each year as a result of commercial flea and tick treatments. Yes, the kind of treatments you can purchase at your favorite pet store - Frontline and Advantage products. The EPA has been investigating these products, and will now require new warnings on labels. The EPA has not taken the step of banning these products, but further investigation could lead to that as well. Small pets (10 - 20 pounds) are most susceptible to the effects of these products. All of these products contain chemical poisons that are harmful to dogs and cats. The best treatment for fleas and ticks is good food, lots of love, and plenty of dietary supplements containing garlic, and Vitamin B complex such as Nupro Supplement or Yeast and Garlic Bits. Regular bathing and combing should be done as well. For further information see EPA and Pesticides. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/13/2010

Tucker's Shamrocks Tucker has shared with you his knack for searching all coat and pant pockets for all forms of treats. Even if my pockets do not contain any treats, Tucker finds it necessary to confirm for himself that none are present. TSA would be proud of this thorough search techniques. The other day, while I was not in the kitchen, Tucker went through my jacket pockets. He removed all contents - money, Kleenex, ink pen, etc. While he did not find any treats, he certainly did me the favor of removing many unwanted contents. Well, Tucker will have a ball today, because my pockets will be filled with Pat's traditional Shamrock peanut butter cookies. Since many of Tucker's friends have requested the recipe, we want to share this with you. TO MAKE ABOUT 30 - 3 INCH TREATS INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups of water 1/2 cup canola oil 2 organic eggs 2 tablespoons JIF Creamy peanut butter 2 teaspoons of vanilla 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour 1 1/4 cups of unbleached white flour 1/2 cup of cornmeal 1/2 cup of rolled oats INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat oven to 400 F Mix water, oil, eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla with a wire whisk. Add flours, cornmeal and oats. Combine with a mixer. Take half the dough and place on a floured surface. Gently knead, adding more white flour as necessary to form a pliable dough. (This will require a substantial amount of flour.) Roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut shapes with cookie cutters. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 400 F. Turn off oven and leave cookies in for 20 minute to crisp. Store in airtight container. ENJOY AND JOIN TUCKER FOR THE SCOTTISH VERSION OF THE IRISH JIG!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/09/2010

Tucker Says Reach High When you reach for the sky, Reach as high as you can, And then reach even higher. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/05/2010

Tucker's Challenge Each day poses challenges. Fill your mind with goals. Fill your heart with dreams. Do not let a moment pass without purpose. Rise above yourself. Go to where you have never been. It should never be too much to ask, How can I travel the unbeaten path? Believe in you, And you will achieve. Always accept the challenge before you, And make something good happen. Arooooo!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/01/2010

Tucker, the Scottish Calculator We all know that Scotsmen know how to count. But, did you know that Scottish terriers know how to count too?? You can readily test this theory any time. Put four dog bone treats, or any treat for that matter, in your jacket pocket. Give three of them to your Scottie. Hang your jacket on the back of your kitchen chair. Walk away for a few minutes. When you return to the kitchen, you will find your jacket on the floor minus the one remaining treat. I have so many jackets with holes in the pocket. Tucker is a master at removing any treat from any piece of clothing. Our Scotties, they are brilliant!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/23/2010

02/19/2010

02/15/2010

Tucker Roots for All Terriers at Westminster Terrier's are known for their courage and tenacity. Anyone who is owned by a terrier, know what Tucker is referring to. The essence of their heart and soul is to never give up, no matter what. They are always in winning mode. The will of a terrier is unconquerable. They will not quit until they win. As we settle in to view the Westminster Dog Show over the next two days, let us enjoy the terriers we love and admire, and cheer for the terriers in the competition they have so thoroughly dominated over the history of the event. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/12/2010

Tucker in the Race Once in the race, Give it your all. Draw on your training, preparation, And experience. Find a way to overachieve. Stay in the hunt, And shoot for the front. Even though you have traveled this road before, dig deep into your, Physical and emotional reserves. The difference at the finish line, Between winning and losing, Will be determined, By the level of challenge, You placed on your mind and soul. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/09/2010

Tucker's World Let nothing stand in the way. Act thoughtfully and decisively. The world is full of doubters. Dream, do not doubt. To all who do not act, The world shall not move. To those who set a plan in motion, The world can be changed. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/07/2010

Talented Tucker! Maximize the talent you possess. Do not worry about what you do not have. The winner will be the one with the most spirit and enthusiasm. Highly talented folks do not always succeed or win. They often lack the energy and enthusiasm of lesser beings. Give each day your all, And you will consistently surpass those that do not. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/03/2010

Tucker's Journey In life, There are many roads to travel. One dreams of traveling them all, But, the choice is one at a time. We look down each road we face, To see how far we can go, But the end often is not clear. We choose the one with few bumps, And smooth pavement. We begin each journey, As if it will not end. But, we sometimes choose to turn back. The end somehow was not as appealing as the beginning. As time passes by, We choose the less traveled way. It poses challenges that others do not, And they have made all the difference. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/01/2010

Tucker's Challenge Each day holds challenges. Some daunting. Some not at all. All must be conquered. Persevere and all will be resolved. Become distracted, And some will be lost. Relish each success. Learn from each event. Examine all of the losses. And add wisdom to your soul. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/27/2010

Tucker, the Ever-Persistent One You have not lost, Unless you believe you have. You cannot win, Unless you believe you can. Dream about how you will succeed. Plan for your success. Make success a reality. Believe in your success. You may lose a battle, Now and again. But, learn from these lapses, And win the war! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/24/2010

Tucker's List of Great Scottie Books As many of you know, Tucker, is a voracious reader and writer. He wants to share with you a most comprehensive Bibliography of Scottish Terrier Books. Tucker thinks that this is one of the best reference lists on the Scottish terrier breed available anywhere, and he wanted to be sure that all of you Scottie enthusiasts were aware of it. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/23/2010

Tucker's Changing World You cannot change the world, But, you can change yourself. You can make yourself into a model and thoughtful citizen. You can avoid all things negative. You can be thoughtful, loving and caring. You can be helpful and generous. By doing these things each day, You can become an exceptional Scottish terrier. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/19/2010

Tucker's Stand There comes a time for everyone to stand alone. There is nothing to fear. To stand alone is not to be alone. To pursue one's dreams comes from within everyone. Make your own shadow. Do not stand under another's cloud. Have the courage of your own convictions. Trust yourself. Stand tall. Move confidently. Be decisive. Act without fear. You do not need a road map. But you must move forward. Follow the sunlight, And you shall overcome anything. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/16/2010

Tucker's Adventurous Words We are all adventurers, each prancing out on a mission of discovery, each guided by an intuitive chart, of which there is no duplicate. The day is a hunting expedition filled with unlimited opportunities. Do not let it pass! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/12/2010

Tucker's Model Attitude Your attitude determines the day's outcome. Start unfocused and with a dour attitude, And your day will be unfulfilled. Muster enthusiasm, bolstered by a positive attitude, And your day will be filled with success. There is nothing that cannot be acomplished by the one who possesses a winning attitude. Yet, everything can be lost by one who has the wrong attitude. If you believe you can do it, You will. If you do not believe, You are doomed. Get up, step out and DO! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/07/2010

Tucker Thinking Summer Vacation With the cold air mass continuing to hover over the east coast, Tucker is already thinking about a Gone to the Dogs vacation in Vermont this summer. Gondoloa rides, woodland walks and pond swimming are just a few of the activities that are already on Tucker's ever-curious mind. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

01/02/2010

Tucker's New Year The year 2010 shall be a good one. It will include small steps forward and a few steps backward. It shall be as much of what we makes of it, And devoid of unnerving challenges. Part of the year will be filled with frolic, And much of it will be captured by uneventful rest and tranquility. As the year advances, It becomes a sequel to prior annals. As it nears its end, It becomes a prelude to the future. This year is not yet next. It has some of the prior and some of what is to come. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/26/2009

Tucker's 12th Birthday Tucker, our blessed Scottish terrier guardian angel, celebrates his 12th birthday today. He is the sweetest and dearest Scottie we have ever had. He brings us joy each and every day. Join us in wishing Tucker a very Happy Birthday! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/25/2009

Tucker's 2009 Christmas Photos Tucker wishes all of his friends a very Merry Christmas! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/23/2009

Tucker's 2010 Wish List Each year Tucker has been with us, he will be 12 on December 26, we are so thankful for his presence. He lifts our spirit each day, and he is there for us at the end of each and every day. He truly is a remarkable owner and companion. He has asked us to share with you his Wish List for 2010. Here it is: -A warm and loving home for every Scottish Terrier, and all members of the terrier breed. -A hearty and varied home cooked organic meal. -Freeze dried salmon treats daily. -Frequent walks each day. -Bi-monthly visits to the Clip Joint to see Julie, his favorite groomer. -Occasional car trips for good measure. -Weekly visits to Magoun�s Saloon to see Sammy, Lilly and the gang. -Attention when demanded. -In-attention when demanded. -�Coffee� in the morning. -Pat�s P-Nutty bones as frequently as possible. -A new toy now and again. -Another healthy year. -Daily visits to Boston, especially to my favorite Irish pubs. -Many more healthy years to come. -Many friends and followers for his Facebook and Twitter pages. -Many more discussions with Paul and Pat � They talk; I listen. -No demanding encounters with anyone. -No demands or commands at all. -A No-Work" contract. -Free health care. -Happiness for all. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/18/2009

12/15/2009

Tucker's Free Offer With Christmas rapidly falling upon us, Tucker has two special thoughts for all of his followers. First, he would like to remind of his FREE SHIPPING OFFER which is available on all U.S. destination shipments ($85.00 minimum purchase) until Sunday, December 20. Secondly, Tucker recently went shopping and is able to offer some exciting Christmas Gift Ideas that are readily available, but in limited quantities. Tucker, the truly frugal Scot, is offering his followers big savings on some really unique gifts. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/13/2009

Tucker's Top Reasons for Liking the Christmas Holidays 1.) I get extra treat goodies. 2.) Pat makes her special treats, and I get to lick the bowl. 3.) Guests have to step over me when they leave the kitchen on their way to the dining room. 4.) I help Pat and Paul wrap all of the great gifts. 5.) I can pick and choose which guests I like. 6.) I collect the cover charge at the door from the guests. 7.) I select the Christmas music and make sure that it has lots of barks. 8.) I supervise the decoration of the tree. 9.) I let mom and dad have as much fun as possible. 10.) I can hardly wait for the next Westminster Dog Show broadcast. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/10/2009

Tucker's Winter Safety Tips With winter weather upon us, Tucker has a few tips that will help keep your canine owner healthy. Keep paws free from ice, sand, salt and mud as much as possible. If you find salt on your pal's paws, rinse it off with warm water. If the weather is especially cold, check for frostbite. Look for white, gray or reddish skin, or if it's peeling or scaly. If so, take your pet to the vet immediately. We all want the holidays to be a happy time for everyone. For more holiday safety tips click here! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/06/2009

First Snow by Tucker It started in the darkness of night, I could feel it in the air. Cool, raw and breezy. All signs of what is to come. During the evening, It started slowly, Gaining momentum during the wee hours. The white drops falling, And the streets disappearing. In the morning, I saw nothing but white. I knew when I stepped outside, My paws would quickly freeze. I quickly relieved myself On my favorite tree, And scampered up The steps to my porch, To escape further discomfort. Welcome winter. I hope you will be forgiving this time. I look forward to the day, When the chill goes away. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/03/2009

Tucker's Pet Food Warning The pet food industry continues to grow at a rapid rate, and with growth and expansion comes greed and carelessness. Pet owners have a responsibility to protect their furry friends from harmful products. Thus far in 2009, a number of pet food products have been RECALLED. Tucker recommends that you not trust the pet food companies with your dogs nutritional health. He suggests that you regularly visit the FDA Website for the latest recall information. If your pet's food has been recalled, immediately stop feeding your pet the product, and return it to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund. If your pet becomes ill from consuming recalled food, immediately contact a Consumer Complaint Coordinator in your state. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

12/02/2009

Hope by Tucker Look to the light. Darkness will dampen your flight. Put a bounce in your step, And a smile on your face. Eagerly approach the day. Use the opportunity to play. Back down from no one. Stand up to all. Let all know who you are. Tell all who will listen, That there is hope for all. They just have to find it. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/25/2009

Scottish Terrier Love by Tucker A Scottie's love is something that no one can explain. It is made of deep devotion And unwavering intensity. It is endless and unselfish, And time cannot break it. It is patient and forgiving, Over and over again. It glows far brighter than any gem, It's flame is brilliant in the night. We give thanks for this little gift. It endures the test of time. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/22/2009

Tucker's Holiday Safety Tips The holidays are great fun for everyone, as long as we prepare not only for the visit of Santa Claus, but also for Santa Paws. He is a list of Do's and Dont's suggested by Tucker to ensure that pets and prople have a glorious and safe holiday. Pet-proof your decorations. Glass ornaments, tinsel and angel hair that could block digestive systems, and lights on chewey electrical cords all need to to be hung beyond your pet's reach. When entertaining, place your pet in a quiet and closed room. Protect your guests from over-excited pets, and your furry friend from guests that will be tempted to slip them table scraps, leave drinks unattended, or leave outside doors open. Treat your pet with yummy dog treats instead of people food. Keep seasonal greenery out of reach. Poinsettias iritate dogs' mouths and digestive systems. Holly and mistletoe are poisonous. Finally do not, Tucker says again, do not share holiday treats - chocolate, gravy, eggnog, stuffing and caramels - they all will raise havoc with your pets digestive system. Also, one of the worst things you can to is to share alachol with your pet. It is a toxin. Tucker wishes all of you a very happy and safe holiday season. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/19/2009

Autumn by Tucker Each day now I see the trees turning brown, The leaves sometimes fall to the ground, And ocassionally get blown away by a gust of wind. The breeze is fresh and vibrant. It is clean and healthy. I love the change of season. It has a life all it's own. I love sniffing through the fallen leaves. Each time I hope to find something interesting. They give me a sense of who has passed before me, And a hint of what may be coming next. This is a lovely time to romp and play. The air is envigorating. I love this time of year, And look forward to each Autumn day. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/15/2009

11/13/2009

Tucker's Prayer A Prayer by Tucker Hear my humble prayer. It is for my clanish friends the Scottish terriers. I pray for those who are suffering and alone. For all that are deserted and lost, or frightened and hungry. I ask all who bear witness to such cruelty To act with a compassionate heart and a gentle hand. I pray for us all, but especially for my Scottish brothers and sisters. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/09/2009

Today by Tucker The day we are in is today. It marks a new beginning. The journey through it is not planned. The road map is unclear. Today we will do something new. It will include adventure and risk. We will put 25 hours into 24, And set new records for the moment. Now is captured, But what about later? Later will become the current moment, And it will be subdued. Today, what a joy. The adventure was great. The challenge was difficult, But the end was satisfying. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

11/01/2009

Winning by Tucker Let nothing stand in your way. Be smart, assertive and positive, And put yourself on a mission, That no one can keep you from. Do not allow the day and moment to be empty. Give it urgent meaning. Give it a chance to go your way. Seize the sunshine; shun to darkness. Reach within yourself, As you never have before. Make yourself go further and faster. The strength is within you. Do not turn waay from the challenge. Look it straight in the eyes. Push through the barriers of the past. Will yourself to wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwin! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/23/2009

At My Side by Tucker Always at my side. each and every day. There are times you wish to stray, But they are momentary and unimportant. You are pretentious at times, But loving always. Always looking forward to a hug n' rub. You are content in every way. You know more than you will admit, And you understand even more. Your paw print is always with me, It clings to my heart always. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/17/2009

Tucker's Uncommon Results Work as if you are not alone, Because you are not. Individual achievement is good, But collective accomplishment is more valuable. There is more energy, In collective action, Than there is alone. There is more to gain collectively, Than any single act. Individual achievement is common, But in team efforts, Uncommon results flourish. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/12/2009

Walking by Tucker As we walk the earth, Some surfaces are hard, Others are soft and slippery. We must meet and overcome these edges. As we continue along the trail, We may stumble here and there, But falling is not an option. Stay positive, Keep moving forward. Be not discouraged, By weather or obstables. Such hindrances are temporary. They are not permanent. They may lengthen our journey. But they will not keep us from completion. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/10/2009

Tucker's Thought for Today Hope by Tucker Near, very near, into the day at hand My hope guides me and directs me On the sweetest journey of uncertainty. There I grasp my being In the Jauntful-delight of the moment. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/06/2009

Tucker's Thought of the Day As I look out on this very day, I see many things in motion. Some appear to be moving randomly. Others may be programmed. This is what we confront each day. It is the wish and sure, That turn chaos into opportunity. Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/03/2009

Tucker's Birthday Greeting Happy Birthday by Tucker May your birthday give You as much joy and cheer As you give to me Each year! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

10/01/2009

Tucker Says Hello to October!

09/26/2009

09/20/2009

Tucker's Gift Gift by Tucker Freedom is a gift, It is simple, But powerful. Gifts can be many things. When true freedom is gained, To shout and to act, No one will be ashamed. Gifts, oh what a delight. Freedom is where we ought to be, And when we find ourselves there. Everyone beware of the gifts we bear. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/18/2009

Somehow Somehow by Tucker Somehow, over the course of the day, There will be disappointments and achievements. Somehow, during the day, I will confront all of the challenges, And reach for the highest cloud, Until my dream comes true. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/15/2009

Tucker's Match Always a delightful treat, Tucker recommends that all Scottie lovers plan to attend the Scottish Terrier Club of New England's Fall Match and Scottie Rescue Parade. The event will be held on Sunday, September 27 at 235 Plainfield Road in Concord, MA. This is always a fun day with lots of Scotties having a blast. For more information: Contact the Scottish Terrier Club of New England.

09/13/2009

Tucker's Walk Walk by Tucker When you walk through the town, Bark at everything that moves. It will clear a path, And will make everyone defer. If they do not understand barking, No worries, They barely understand themselves, Keep on, Keep on. As you pass them by, Do not look back. Walk on, walk on, For there is nothing to fear. Walk on to your destiny, Leave all behind. For the future is bright, And the past is dim. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/09/2009

Tucker's Thoughts Today by Tucker When you walk today, Enjoy it. Be it windy or sunny, Accept it for what it is. When you walk, Do not do so alone. Walk the city streets, And walk along the sea shore. The sea comes in, And it creeps away. It is a beautiful mystery, To be enjoyed. Be guided by each day. But walk through them all. With head held high, And mind open for adventure. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/06/2009

Tucker's Dream Dream Today by Tucker When you walk today, Hold your head up high. Keep your energy high, And look everyone in the eye. Each day is different. Some are glorious. Others are stormy. Walk proud. Walk confident. Walk with a purpose. At the end of a beautiful day, Be wary of the storm brewing. At the end of the storm, Is a rainbow. Follow it. For it will fulfill your dream. Walk on. And dream on. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

09/01/2009

Tucker Today Most by Tucker Make the most of each day. It is how you will be remembered. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/30/2009

Tucker's Thoughtful Journey Journey by Tucker The journey. It is about the adventure. It could be long. It might be short. But, it is there to confront. Seize it. Experience it. Do not stumble along it's uncertain path. Do not be shy. Have a wonderful journey. Try not to let it end. But, when it does, Let it go! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/26/2009

Tucker and Brotherhood Brotherhood by Tucker There is a destiny that makes us brothers. No one goes astray. All go together. All that we share in friendship Is returned as given. No one ever walks alone. Never, not once. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/25/2009

Tucker's Little Angel Little Angel by Tucker Little Rocket came to earth one day. He gave only love to Cynthia And then he went away. Cynthia will never forget the gift of love he bestowed, His spunky nature and the lessons of life he taught. Unqualified love he forever gave. Until he had a pulse no more. Our heavenly father took Rocket one day. He shall be remembered always. There shall be no other way. We shall all be with him one day. For he is a the gates of heaven preparing the way. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/24/2009

Tucker's Story A Story by Tucker When you need something Do not let it go. To allow it to pass Means it is forever gone. Allow yourself to be challenged often From it you will learn And become stronger Always be confident that you will prevail Even if the weather becomes stormy It will always pass And you will be the emotional victor. From confusion and uncertainty Comes victory For those who can withstand the battle Never give in to the challenge. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/19/2009

Tucker's Saddest Day Tucker's dearest friend, Rocket, passed away yesterday. Tucker knows that Rocket will be waiting to greet him at the gates of heaven when his own time comes. It will then become one of the greatest Scottish terrier celebrations of all-time. God bless all Scottish terriers and the humans they touch so dearly. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/12/2009

Tucker's Friend, Rocket, Needs Your Help Tucker receives dozens of letters, notes and emails each week. The message he received yesterday struck an emotional cord with him. Tucker's friend, Rocket, has a tumor on his spleen. He is 13-years old. His mum takes him for 40 minute walks twice daily, but recently Rocket has slowed considerably, and only walks to the corner and back. Rocket's veterinarian can remove his spleen, but mum wants to know if this will result in 1-2 years of additional quality life. Tucker wants to know if any Scottie owners have had any experience with this condition, and what the post operative quality of life is likely to be for a 13-year old Scottish terrier. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/10/2009

Is Tucker Missing? Missing by Tucker When someone leaves They become missed The emotional bond is temporarily broken And uncertainty takes hold. Hopefully the separation is temporary The memory of the past is vivid But today my heart is full of the missed. I want yesterday to return Because I want to be near my cherished friend. I will wait by the door And will not leave until he returns. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/05/2009

Thankful by Tucker Thankful by Tucker Be thankful for every day It really is the only way Rise up each day with optimisism And something good will surely come your way. Be thankful that you have a chance to make a difference Try to do so each day Pick yourself up Do not rely on others But thank those who try. Enjoy the bright sun And the greeness that surrounds us. Fear not the rain, sleet and snow Be thankful for all that we experience. Cherish what we have had And all that we shall be given Though some will be good and others not so Be thankful for all. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

08/04/2009

08/01/2009

Tucker's Friendship Wish Friendship Wish by Tucker I wish you a rainbow Let the sun shine brightly after showers Miles and miles of smiling Scotties For excitement hour after hour Black roses at your doorway For fun and happiness. A large following of friends are just for you Each hour of every day your entire life. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/29/2009

Tucker's Summer Safety Tips Tucker does not like the heat and humidity of the summer days. He is always looking for ways to beat the heat. Here are some of Tucker's thoughts to ensure that your Scottie has a safe and healthy summer. - Exercise early in the morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler. - Keep your Scottie at home versus taking them in the car. - Avoid bringing you friend to the beach or park on very hot days. They can become dehydrated very quickly. - Plan ahead for vacations. If you cannot bring your Scottie along, ask a friend to pet sit in your home. Avoid kennels at all costs. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/26/2009

Tucker's Flying Suggestions Although we are in an economic recession, the airline industry has found yet another way to squeeze money from the travelling public - raise fees on pets travelling with their human companions. It now costs about $100 each way to take your pet on a flight. Tucker, our Scottish terrier accountant wonders how many freeze dried salmon cubes that will cost him. We all know, more and more people are travelling with their pets. Tucker has a couple of common sense suggestions that will ease the emotional burden of the trip for people and their pets. All airlines limit the number of pets on each flight. Tucker recommends that you book your flight as early as possible if you plan to bring your pet along. Try to book a nonstop flight whenever possible. This will reduce the stress on both yourself and your pet. If you are checking your pet as luggage, Tucker suggests that you avoid booking a mid-day flight in the summer. The cargo area can get dangerously hot. For more tips on travelling with your pet, Tucker suggests that you read...Friendly Skies. Not for Pet Owners. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/23/2009

Tucker's Foodie Thoughts Tucker, like all smart Scottish terriers, wants the best of everything, especially as in FOOD. Many struggle with what to feed their pets. And, especially after the pet food recall fiasco of 2006 and 2007, many pet owners have become highly selective of what food is best for their furry family member. Some have switched from commercial dog food to all natural, holistic and even organic mixes. Still others have decided to cook human food for their dogs. Tucker urges all to be smart about what human food to feed their Scotties. Moreover, he suggests a mix of both holistic kibble and human ingredients to keep the members of the Scottish clan both happy and healthy. Tucker's list of ingredients that will Liven Up Your Scotties Meals. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/21/2009

Tucker's Thoughts on Car Security Ten years ago, author Stephen King was hit and severely injured by a minivan because it's driver was distracted by his loose Rottweiler. Some very scarey things can happen if you do not buckle up your furry companion. In addition, Tucker asks..."Whay about your dog's safety? Do you secure your dog in your car? Read more on CANINE CAR SAFETY! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/18/2009

Tucker's Flying Thoughts As Tucker reported to you last month, there is a new pet airline in town. It has separate dog crate compartments with plenty of room to stretch out, flight attendants, a pet lounge, escort from check-in to the plane and pre-boarding walks. The trip from New York to Los Angeles includes dinner, play time and a sleepover in Chicago and only costs $250. To learn more about this exciting new venture visit PET AIRWAYS. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/14/2009

Tucker's Observation Observation by Tucker To see is not necessarily to understand. Images are visual. Actions too can be viewed. But understanding requires intellect, thought and analysis. Today, we see many things. What do they mean? Are they important? What about the things and actions that we do not see. Are they more or less important than those we observe? Perhaps they are. Take everything in. See all you can. Experience as much as your curiosity allows. For seeing is the first step to understanding. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/09/2009

Tucker's Gift Gift by Tucker Many gifts are complex and expensive. Some are even simple and free. Some gifts are thoughtful. Others are not. Many bring joy to their recepient. Others bear little meaning at all. The greatest gift of all. Need not be expensive nor elaborate. It just need come from the heart. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/05/2009

Tucker's Wonder Wonder by Tucker You are always there with a good word, And a caring thought. You give me hope when there is none. You give me strength to keep going. Your stare is worth a thousand words. Your are always ready for the coming adventure. When no one else understands me. You are the one who does. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

07/01/2009

Tucker, Ever the Looker Looking by Tucker As I peer out the window, I never know what to expect. THe wonders of the unknown, Are the thrill of the day. There is more curiosity in looking, Than doing. Subtlty and nuance are hard to identlfy, But they often have profound meaning. Looking comes natural. Understanding is a bit of a challenge. I take nothing for granted. But I also let nothing pass. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/28/2009

Tucker's Memory Memory by Tucker Dawn I am thinking of the new day. The sunrise will come, And I must act. When it comes, I will be ready. For yesterday is gone, And today has arrived. When my chance arrives, I will will bask in the sun's brilliance. It will be my one moment to shine, And so I will. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/23/2009

06/20/2009

Tucker's New Airline Tip Many of you know, Tucker is quite a traveller. Well, he has discovered a new way to travel and it has been created exclusively for canines - PetAirways - A Pet Airline where pets fly in the main cabin, NOT in cargo! Tucker thinks this new airline will solve a lot of problems for people who travel frequently and insist that their pet come along for the ride. Fares are as low as $149.00. For now you can book connections between New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Denver and Los Angeles. Your pet will travel in the main cabin with a Pet Airways flight attendant and receive first class service eliminating the stress our pets experience normally when travelling in cargo. Going somewhere, Tucker suggests you check-out Pet Airways! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/16/2009

Tucker and People People by Tucker People - people who need Scotties Are the luckiest people in the world. They're adventurers, needing other adventurers And yet letting their enthusiasm loose Not hiding anything inside, Acting more like their Scotties each day Than themselves. People who need Scotties are the luckiest people in the world! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/12/2009

Hold Your Head Up High Up High by Tucker Keep looking up, no matter what. Hold your head up high. No matter what the day brings. Go forward and reach for the stars. Keep going, no matter what obstacles surface. Take one step at a time, But go forward you must. You are never alone in this journey. The sky is not always golden. The day is not always easy. One's health is not always the best. But go forward nevertheless. Walk forward with head held high. Your dreams will be realized! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/09/2009

Tucker, We Love Him So Oh Tucker loves us so. His thoughts and actions are only for us. He sets our spirits free. Oh does he so. The journey of life is brief. And once it is lived. There is an after-life. It is filled with barkes and belly brubs. Surely you understand. There is no lonliness in life. If you home and heart is filled with a Scottie. Your life is surrounded with love and humor. It never ceases to end. Even in the most difficult of times. Scottie humor rules the day! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/05/2009

Tucker is Always Somewhere and Everywhere Somewhere and Everywhere by Tucker Somewhere across town And down a very steep hill, There's a place that I love And cherish dearly. Someday I will miss this lovely place And still be pleased that I was allowed to visit. This place makes troubles seem far away, And happiness seems to be always near. It is a place you will always find me. Everywhere there seems to be tension and strife. But here it always passes me by. It is where the clan always gathers. It is my home! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

06/01/2009

Tucker's Beautiful Day Day by Tucker The day belongs to those who believe in the beauty of challenge and adventure. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/30/2009

Tucker's Recommended Adventures If you are looking for a halarious must read for all Scottie lovers this weekend, Tucker has a great recommended read for you. It is Urban Dog: The Adventures of Parker by Will Cohu. This book is filled with many hilarious incidents. Throughout the book Parker and Will battle for supremacy. Tucker will leave it to you to determine who the "winner" is. Parker is truly the star of the book. Tucker recommends this book to anyone who is owned by a Scottish terrier, and would be an especially good read to anyone contemplating a Scottie puppy. You will not be able to put this book down. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/25/2009

A Dream Remembered A Remembrance by Tucker I, and many like me acted out a dream oh so many years ago, When the world was uncertain and full of conflict, And life was full of hope and passion, I thought I would never die. Life was worth living, But death was always lurching around the corner, Then I was young and unafraid, Until one day the rockets bore down on us, From that moment on, Invincibility was just a dream, Mortality set quickly in our minds. These were not times when men were kind, There were no voices, There was no sign, There was this time, When our lives were changed forever. This was the moment when youth was taken, And hope was shattered. A life worth living was altered eternally. The predators came at night, Their bullets and grenades shatter your body, Our innocence was taken aside, Our minds forever unable to either forget or move forward. For so many of us, This day can never be forgotten. Freedom is not a word, It is an act of sacrifice. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/21/2009

Tucker to the Rescue Everyone knows of the indifference of man. A Scottish terrier is indifferent to nothing. There is meaning in everything to a Scottie. There is also good in everything. Scotties believe that every man has the potential to do good. After all, there is no reward for indifference or cruelty. The rewards for mankind shall be determined at the final judgement. Saving a Scottie from the confines of cruelty will not change the world. But it surely will change the world for that one special Scottish terrier. That one special act of compassion and kindness, May be the moment of salvation for man. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/18/2009

Tucker, the Master at Reflection Reflection by Tucker Every day is a thoughtful engagement. Each is cause to absorb and deflect. Darkness and brilliance often combine To share the same space. Wind, rain and sunshine, All combine to add texture to the experience. Each requires adjustment and appreciation. In time, all are absorbed in comfort. Each day is accepted for what it is. In part because it must be. However, each day is also an opportunity, To manage events to ones advantage. To do so requires persistence and thought. Each day can be captured and seized. And must not be allowed to slip away. Although another day will surely come, Today must be used to forward the agenda. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/14/2009

Another Happy Day Every day belongs to Tucker. He seizes each moment as if it would not last. He let's it go before it becomes past. There is no challenge he fears. There is not outcome he will accept. Tucker is a problem-solver. He needs no help in discovering the solution. He is happy for each day to come. He believes these days have no end. He takes everything each day delivers. And makes each passing day a happy one. For Tucker, there is nothing to fear in day or night. He is comfortable with brilliance and darkness. His heart and soul are hearty, because he is ready for each day's party. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/10/2009

Remembering Tucker's Friend, Kelty Remembering by Tucker When the sky is dark, remember above the darkness, it is perpetually blue. Today, and every day is the moment to wish upon a star. You will always be above life's pedestrian thoughts, and each living day will be filled with passionate, rich and emotionally glorious thoughts. Dear Kelty has soared to a height unreachable by any blue bird. She has flown above the rainbow and beyond. She will be perpetually in my memory, I can only hope I will forever be etched in hers. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/09/2009

Tucker, the Star of Boston By now, many of you are familiar with our Tucker boy. We adore him in so many ways, but, most of all, we cherish his presence and love each and every day. In short, he is our daily inspiration. I wish we approached each day with the enthusiasm and energy that he does. He is eager for each day to begin, and always takes what each day has to offer in stride. Well, yesterday Tucker's photo was posted on Boston.com - one of the biggest regional websites in the United States. Not surprisingly, the photo is of Tucker at his favorite tavern - Olde Magoun's Saloon. Our Tucker, is rapidly becoming the ubiquitous Scot. He is a great poster boy for the Scottish terrier breed. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/03/2009

Tucker, the Unforgettable and Everlasting Scottish Terrier Tucker, ever-faithful and ever-present. His memory is ubiquitously etched in our mind. He is serious, mellow, friendly and kind. Nothing can keep his presence away. We'll never find a more happy and loyal friend than Tucker. His happy smile is always there. Although to find it you have to look past his whiskers. His protective bark, and his incessant curiosity shall never vanish. Our thoughts about him always focus on the present. His eyes are always cast upon us. Although he cannot speak, it is easy to discern his thoughts. They are, as always, warm, thoughtful, kind, loving, protective and embracing. But, most of all they are selfless. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

05/01/2009

Happy May From Tucker! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/26/2009

Tucker the Genuine Scot Tucker is an honorable Scot. He is shrewd, coy, cute and deceptive. His joy is mischief and surprise. He spends hours thinking and acting. You would surmise that he holds a high degree. For he is a true gentleman and scholar. Though he did so outside the scholarly halls. He is a roaming, ranting and raving Scot. He is an ever-faithful tyke. He befriends everyone, as they become enchanted with him at once. His coat is black, his tongue is red, and his tail points straight to heaven. Tucker's soul is deep within him. It is filled with the history of Scotland. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/19/2009

Tucker's Shadow I have a small dark shadow that follows me everywhere. He trots along with the gait of royalty, and the speed of one about to become mischevous. He is very unlike me from the snout to the tail, and he is with me every day in spirit and at play. The funniest thing about him is he is always ready to go, not at all like people who do not seem to know. He is as playful as a little child, and as serious as a celebrated composer. He hasn't got the notion of how he should act in any situation. He simply responds as any Scottish terrier would with the most unpredictable action. He stays close to me always, but is unafraid to wander on his own. He is my shadow, forever and always. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/14/2009

Tucker's Scottish Terrier Daily Proverb Never look to tomorrow when there is unfinished work that can be completed today. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/11/2009

For Tucker, Today is Enough Every day is THE day for Tucker. His enthusisam for the moment is what makes him special. No matter how dark and dreary the day may appear, he is ready to capture every moment. Tomorrow is unthinkable, because today is all that matters. Yesterday is forgotten, because it is gone. Today? Well to Tucker, it is everything that needs to be. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/07/2009

JOY In the house where Tucker, our wonderful Scottish terrier, lives, happiness and joy surround us all. Tucker gives us joy each day, and he asks for nothing in return. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

04/04/2009

04/01/2009

A Note from Tucker�s Diary We walk early, We walk late Before and after sunrise Two legs, four paws Every day of the year. Street lights sometimes show us the way On occasion, the sun is too much to bear Snow and ice are a discomfort Not to mention the nuisance of wind and rain. We are Paul and Tucker Taking the journey of life The trip homeward is always a joy It always ends magically. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/29/2009

Fertilizers Pose a Serious Health Risk to Your Scottish Terrier Do not overlook the many health risks associated with fertilizers. Do not allow your Scottie near any known lawns containing fertilizers. Remember, Scotties love to inspect everything. However, their natural curosity can get them in trouble. Little yellow flags surrounding any lawn or grassy area should send off alarm bells immediately. These areas should be avoided at all costs, because they pose serious long-term health risks to our Scotties. Exposure to Herbicide-treatedLawns and Gardens increases the risk of bladder cancer in Scottish terriers. Be sensible and be safe during this time of year. We want our Scotties to be with us for a long time. Keep them away from lawn and plant chemicals and them will be! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/26/2009

Its All About the Will According to Tucker, the worlds greatest Scottish Terrier philosopher..."The difference between success and failure is the will not to fail." Never, never, never underestimate yourself. Get your mind focused on the objective. At the critical moment, put one foot in front of the other; will them to move faster than those of all others. Will your mind and body to a higher level of performance. Every day and all of the time. The result will be consistent achievement. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/23/2009

Two Highlanders at Olde Magoun's Saloon As many of you know, Tucker is a "regular" at Olde Magoun's Saloon in Somerville. Last Saturday, Tucker invited Charlie, his new found friend and owner of Tom and Pat Brady, to visit Olde Magoun's to meet some of the 4200 runners who were there to register for the Ras na hEireann 5k road race held every year in Davis Square. Needless to say, Tucker and Charlie drew quite a crowd. Charlie is a 13-month old Highlander who was rescued by Pat and Tom Brady. The great folks at the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater New York is responsible for introducing Charlie to Tom and Patricia Brady. According to Charlie..."Tom and Pat have adjusted well to their new lifestyle." We are hoping to see more of Charlie at Olde Magoun's in the future. He will always be welcome there! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/13/2009

Shamrock Cookies at Olde Magoun's Saloon No, not the people kind of gourmet cookies, although that would add a nice celebratory accent to what will be a very festive weekend at Tucker McPaddy's favorite haute, Olde Magoun's Saloon in Somerville, MA. No, Tucker has something more exciting than plain old gourmet cookies for people - Green Shamrock Cookies for all of his canine friends. He and Pat, well, mostly Pat, whipped up a batch of shamrock cookies to share with Tucker's many friends at the Saloon on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - Charlie, Bubba, Sammy, Fergie & Lucy, Tommy, Isabella and Fred, etc. Irish Pubs are noted for their parlor atmosphere. They are meant for those who want to share a pint and a story. The pub is a gathering place for the family outside of the home. But a true Irish Pub is one meant for all family members - people as well as their canine owners. Thanks to Greg Coughlin, Olde Magoun's is such a place. I think that Greg is truly man's best friend. Tucker believes he has gone to the dogs. We all want to thank Greg for making Magoun's a truly unique social, drinking and dining experience. Cheer, Cheer for Olde Magoun's!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/09/2009

Love and Protection May the love and protection A Scottish terrier provides Be yours in abundance As long as you live! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/06/2009

Caught Immersed in Baking Flour As we all know, when you are owned by a Scottish terrier, you must learn to expect the unexpected at the most unexpected time. Over the 11 years Tucker, our zany Scottish terrier, has owned us, we have had many "first experiences." Yesterday, was another "first." A little background first. Many of you know that Pat regularly bakes specialty dog cookies. This is something she enjoys doing, and her cookies and treats have become very, very popular. Tucker, of course, not only enjoys eating them, but equally relishes watching Pat make them. In fact, he supervises the entire process. Well, so much for the background, now let's move on to the naughty deed. Normally when I return home from work, I find Tucker at the kitchen door ready to happily greet me. However yesterday, when I opened the kitchen door, I found no greeter. As I moved into the house, I saw what looked like white dust on the dining room floor. And, from around the corner came this fur ball fully covered in white fluff. Yes, it was Tucker. He looked like he was, for a moment a big Westie. Everything about him was white, even his nose. What do you say to the eighth wonder of the world? Pat's bag of baking flour was sitting on a chair in the dining room for a month. Don't ask me why. Tucker was never been interested in it until yesterday. However, once his curiosity was sparked, he, I am certain, enthusiastically tore into the flour bag. The rest is history. I spent the next two hours cleaning him up so the neighbors would recognize him for what he is - a hell-raising, free spirit of a Scottish terrier! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/04/2009

Tucker's Favorite Saloon Tucker is not much of a soccer or rugby fan, but if you were, you would be delighted with our boy's favorite haute - Olde Magoun's Saloon in Somerville, MA. Greg Coughlin, the owner and one of Tucker's best friends, caters to the young sports enthusiast. Greg offers the most extensive live broadcast sports venue in Somerville. Again, Tucker does not care much for European sports. He loves Red Sox baseball and Celtics basketball. However, the real reason Tucker enjoys Magoun's is because his very best friend, Sammy, is almost always there. Each time Tucker goes to Magoun's, he brings a bag full of treats for Sammy. Sammy can smell Tucker coming from a mile away; is always excited and happy to see him, and always escorts his Scottish friend to his favorite perch - the front window. From there Tucker becomes the official greeter for the day. If you are ever in the Somerville area, Tucker encourages you to stop by Magoun's for a pint of beer, and be sure to bring your Scottie with you. Magoun's is a very pet friendly place where you can relax, enjoy one of the best burgers in the Boston area, and bark and shout encouragement for your favorite sports team all day long! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

03/01/2009

Tucker's Penetrating Eyes You know you have met an honest, earnest, decent person when they can maintain eye contact during a conversation. Someone who looks down during a conversation, or who maintains intermittent eye contact is usually disinterested, nervous, or not very confident. On the other hand, if you make too much eye contact, or if you stare too hard at other people, they will feel uncomfortable. Staring too directly at another person can be intimidating. Scotties are eye contact masters. When they want something NOW, they will get right in front of you and focus a laser like stare at you. The stare is intimidating enough, because you know it will be followed by other actions if you do not respond appropriately - treat, play, tummy rub, or walk. However, if you want something, Scotties use their expressive eyes to let you know what to expect. For example, when the command "COME" is used, it is usually met with a nano-second stare, followed by an immediate about face, and a prance off in another direction. For Scotties, the eyes speak a thousand words. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/25/2009

How Tucker Makes His Living As you know, Tucker lives a carefree life. He does not wake up each day wondering whether his food, shelter, care and love will be provided. He knows with absolute certainty that they will all be there for him. He, therefore, knows that he can spend his time doing what he does best...get plenty of rest and, while doing so, ponder the great problems of the day. He does not have a schedule, nor does he have a pre-determined number of tasks that he must complete. Rather, he has the freedom to choose what he wants to do, and when he wants to do it. He is smart enough not to choose to do something that he cannot do. His focus is on what is, not what should, could or might be. Tucker also does not dwell on "must have..." He subscribes to the theory that..."All good things comes to those who wait." In other words, patience is his virtue. We should all think about the behavior of out Scotties, and learn the importance of now, and each and every moment. Think About How Truly Lucky Tucker Really Is... Tucker's Friend Duncan Thinks He Is Lucky Too!! Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/19/2009

Grooming Your Scottish Terrier at Home Those of us owned by a Scottish Terrier know how frustrating it can be to find a groomer who really does know how to trim and groom our friskey friends. And, when we do find a capable groomer, we are faced with the cost of an expensive haircut. With economic uncertainty staring us in the face, it may make sense to explore home grooming as a money saving option. Jacki Forkel, a professional groomer and breeder of champion Scotties, offers a step-by-step approach in Grooming You Can Do at Home. This is a pretty darn useful "how to" grooming guide. Let Tucker Know What You Think!! Send Your Comments to Tucker

02/15/2009

Tucker the Inspirationalist Enthusiasm drives Tucker, our dear Scottish Terrter, through each day. His enthusiasm is unlimited. You cannot but admire how Tucker approaches each day. It is almost like he is living his own dream each day. His excitement and enthusiasm is infectious. You see it, and it rubs off on you. You ask how Tucker can be so motivated to confront the challenges of the day? He is so grounded in the moment. The moment of each hour of each day. He neither looks back, nor into the future. Why should he? There is so much to the present to savor. Thank god for Tucker and his living inspirations. To live is one thing, to live a motivated and inspirational life is something else again.

02/11/2009

Tucker's Peanut Recall Notice A second peanut processing plant in Texas, owned by the Peanut Corporation of America, has been shut down. More bacteria in peanut products produced there were found. Peanut Corporation of America owns three manufacturing plants in three states - Georgia, Texas and Virginia. Peanuts from these plants have already killed 8 people and sickened 600 others in 44 states. According to Tucker..."What is not yet known, and may never be, is how many pets, especially our beloved Scottish Terriers, have been sickened and killed by this irresponsible company." Tucker wants to make sure that all people owned by Scotties are aware of all Pet Food Product Recalled by the Food and Drug Administration. The recalled items include: Carolina Prime Carolina Prime Pet Great Choice Happy Tails Healthy Hide Healthy Hide Deli Wrap Salix Shoppers Valu Knowlegde is the most powerful tool available to the human being. Use it to protect your cherished Scottish Terrier.

02/10/2009

Celebrate Westminster with Tucker As many of you know, the Terrier Group, specifically, our beloved Scottish Terriers, were performing last evening at Madison Square Garden in the Westminstre Dog Show. In case you missed the Scottish Terrier breed judging, sit back in a comfortable chair, sit your owner next to you, and watch the Scottie group WOW the judge and the audience. Click Here to Watch the 9 Minute Video of the Judging of the Scotties.

02/08/2009

Tucker the Happy Boy Many people who meet Tucker say he has the sweetest disposition of any dog they have met. This is so true. He is one of the most content Scotties I have ever encountered. The basic nature of Tucker's little mind is unconditional goodness. He neither sees nor thinks of evil. He is perpetually happy because he is always content and satisfied with where he is, and who he is, and what he is doing, and with whom he is doing it. Tucker is not envious of other dogs or other people. He is content with what he has. He absorbs all that is good around him, and ignores the evil that is lurking in the background. Tucker has a great insight into "what is." This true view of reality, often unknown to the human spirit, allows him to experience the day's events without bias or prejudice. Tucker is the greatest Scottish Terrier I know.

02/03/2009

Tucker's Proverb of the Day Tucker's Proverb "Who has found this most faitful friend, finds the greatest Scottish Terrier treasure."

02/02/2009

Tucker, the Scotish Terrier Chemist Pretty soon the snow will be gone and spring will be upon us. Well, with a Scottish Terrier optimism is boundless. Oh boy! Let's be careful of what we wish for, and be ready to protect our Scotties from the inherent risks brought on by the good weather. As many of us know, Scotties are about 20 times more likely to develop bladder cancar than other breeds. Exposure to herbicides and pesticides increases the risk of our Scotties developing this form of cancer. The "cure." Do all you can to minimize your Scottie's exposure to plants and lawns treated with insecticides and herbicides. Our Scotties are at Great Risk. We should be very careful about where they exercise and roam. If you have a "Scottie-Walker" during the work day, be sure to give them very specific instructions on where and where not to walk your owner.

01/29/2009

Tucker's Winter Storm Advisory Did you know that antifreeze is a lethal poison for your Scottie? During the winter, keep your Scottie away from coolants and antifreeze. When the snow melts, it follows the course of gravity. However, there is a hidden risk to your Scottish Terrier that you must be aware of in order to protect your beloved one. Mixed in with the melting snow may be diluted coolant and antifreeze from the very street you live on. This can be very dangerous, and can put your Scottie at high risk. Following your many winter walks, you should thoroughly wipe off your Scottie's feet and pads and stomach. Your Scottie can ingest salt, coolant or antifreeze while licking his paws and pads following these walks. If you do not wipe his feet, pads and stomach, he could become quite sick. Be careful in the winter. What you do not see can hurt your Scottie!!

01/26/2009

Tucker's Review of Pet Policies Following Huricane Katrina, Congress passed the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS Act). This Act ensures that state and local emergency preparedness plans address the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals following a major disaster or emergency. According to Tucker..."This is an important milestone in that it sheds light on the importance of pets to their human companions." Tucker goes on to say..."However, the PETS Act does not go far enough in offering solutions to pets and their human companions DURING a crisis or an emergency." However, we are now beginning to see some local communities starting to include pets in their local evacuation and emergency planning. Towns and municipalities that fail to do so will risk non-qualification for funding inder the PETS Act. During last month's ice storm in New Hampshire, many pet owners chose to stay in their homes with their pets even though they were without heat and electricity. Tucker wants everyone to be prepared with a household emergency plan should electricity and heat be lost during the winter months. -Identify a hotel nearby that is pet friendly. -Make sure that your pet is registered with the local municipality. - Always carry with you the location of the nearest veterinary office. - Have an emergency supply of food, water, blankets, treats and toys for your pet. - Always have the emergency phone numbers of the police and fire departments. Most important of all - Obtain a copy of your city or town's emergency evacuation plan. Insist that it include provisions for protecting your pet in all such instances.

01/22/2009

Tucker's Pet Smart Warning Here we go again - this time it's peanuts. Yesterday, Petsmart decided to voluntarily recall Great Choice Dog Biscuts, because the treats might contain peanut paste from Peanut Corporation of America which is under probe by the Food and Drug Administration. Tucker says..."If you have purchased this product for your Scottish Terrier, you should immediately discontinue using this treat, and return them to your local Pet Smart store for a full refund!!"

01/20/2009

Tucker's Medical Advice There is ample evidence about that suggests that Scottish Terriers are "18 times" more at risk for bladder cancer (TCC) than most other breeds. Known risk factors in Scotties include: - Exposure to topical insecticides. - Exposure to lawn herbicides. - Exposure to spraying of insecticides. - Obesity. - Flea/tick products (dips). - Female. - Neutered. If your Scottie exhibits any of these signs or symptoms, you may want to consult with your canine caregiver: - Brown color or blood in the urine. - Frequent urinations, usually in small amounts. - Difficult or painful urination. If you do consult your Scottie's caregiver, Tucker suggests that you ask about the V-BTA Test. This screening test is highly sensitive for the detection of TCC.

01/15/2009

Tucker's Celebration Would'nt it be nice to be able to enthusiastically celebrate each and every day? Well, Tucker does just that. You see, he thinks every day is a combination of his birthday and Christmas. Everything he does, he enjoys. There is nothing that he does not get joy from. Even the simplest of things - sitting on the porch and observing everything - he enjoys. Every meal is his best meal. Every marrow bone is his best bone. Every ride in the car is his best one. What a lesson in life he offers us all. Come on, let's enjoy the day along with Tucker!!

01/12/2009

Tucker's Peaceful Moments You do not have to hold a Doctorate in International Relations from Harvard University to understand that the world is an especially dangerous place. Countries like Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, India, Afganistan and Iraq pose serious threats to America's national security. Well, Tucker has a unique perspective on these matters. As a wise Scottish Terrier, we can all take note of Tucker's thoughts on today's international challenges. His instant advice is to live in the moment. "Do not fret over the past or worry about the future," he says. He goes on to say, "Focus on NOW! Enjoy everything the moment brings; enrich your life now with the efforts you expend today." His other bit of advice has to do with conflict resolution. "Deal with conflicts before they get out of control." Tucker says..."Force yourself to move ahead, rather than dwell on lingering negative feelings." Life in the Scottish Terrier pack of one is quite peaceful. Our Tucker has taught us so much in the past 11 years. We have learned so much from him, and we wanted to share his insights with you.

01/08/2009

Join Tucker and His Friends Over the past five years, Tucker has made many friends from all over the world. Many of his friends are included in his Tucker's Online Photo Gallery. If you would like to join Tucker's Gallery of Friends, send us a photo of the Scottish Terrier that owns you; tells us where you are from, and how old your Scottie is. Scotties are so photogenic. Share your Scottie with Tucker and the World!! Send Your Photo To: paul@scottieconnection.com

01/04/2009

Tucker's Reflections on 2008 Boy, what a year 2008 was. It was a year where very few Madoff! Who knew that a recession began in December 2007, and by September 2008 the financial system, as it was known to us throughout our lifetime,would virtually collapse. Well, apparently Tucker was not only aware of these events well before they unfolded, he was also able to successfully navigate his business - ScottieConnection.com - through the retail minefields of 2008. Tucker's vision atop his perch is prescient. While Online holiday sales in general were flat compared with previous years, Tucker's Online sales increased 33% compared with 2007. Tucker's business philosophy is quite simple..."Give the Scottish Terriers and the people owned by them what they want; give it to them quickly; and provide many barking Scottish Terriers to offer exceptional customer service." Like the Scottish Terrier in general, Tucker's customers are very loyal. They know that they can always find new and unique "Scottie things and gifts" at Tucker's Online store. They know that Tucker works very hard to keep them happy. Tucker wants to thank all of his loyal customers for his most successful holiday shopping season ever, and he promises to be as innovative and creative throughout 2009.

01/01/2009

Tucker's Passion The urge to fit in. That is what Scottish Terrier's are all about. Of course, it is you how must fit into a Scottie's life. Not the other way around. They are loving, loyal and feisty characters. They express these traits every waking day. You can see them in all that they do. They insist upon your undenying love. Not for a minute can it waver. Not for a moment can it be withheld. Not for a day can it be hidden. For the faithful Scot will take full and due note. Enrich yourself with your Scottish Terrier's presence. For there is nothing like it. A life without. Is a life incomplete. A Scottie will always be with you in both life and death. They capture your heart an soul. And never let go.

12/29/2008

Tucker's Winter Watch Last week, Pat was walking along State Street in Boston when she encountered a man with a small dog. It was a particularly cold day, and the little pooch had a winter sweater on. However, Pat noticed that the little pup was lifting up it's paws and wimpering. As the man and dog approached Pat, she said to him..."Don't you realize that your dog's feet are very cold, and on a day like this, it won't take long for the paws to become frostbitten?" The man, a tourist from Florida, genuinely did not realize how quickly on a very cold day a dog's paws and pads could be feeling the effect of frostbite. Pat insisted that the man pick the dog up and carry him back to the hotel. She also told the man to check the dogs pads for discoloration, and also to inspect between the pads to make sure that ice balls were not stuck to the hair. Pat asked the man..."How do you think you would feel walking around on a frigid cold day without your shoes and sox on?" The bottom line here is this - our beloved Scotties have feelings too. When it is especially cold, it is best to keep their exposure to the elements limited. This is especially so if we are talking about a mature Scottie. Anyone over the age of 60 knows what the cold can do to our bones, joints and overall spirits. For those of us who do not spend the winter in Florida, beware of the dangers associated with the cold weather.

12/22/2008

Tucker's Wish List Most of you know Tucker to be a fun-loving, care-free Scottish Terrier soul. He can be as funny as Milton Berle once was; as light on his feet as Fred Aistaire ever was, and as charming as Clark Gable. He is capable of solving Rubik's Cube-like mysteries, and he is passionate about football, soccer that is. Each year Tucker has been with us, he will be 11 on December 26, we are so thankful for his presence. He lifts our spirit each day, and he is there for us at the end of each and every day. He has asked us to share with you his Wish List for 2009. Here it is: -A warm and loving home for every Scottish Terrier. -A hearty home cooked organic meal. -Marrow bones each day to keep the vet away. -Frequent walks each day. -Occasional car trips for good measure. -Weekly visits to Magoun�s Saloon to see Sammy. -Attention when demanded. -In-attention when demanded. -�Coffee� in the morning. -Pat�s P-Nutty bones as frequently as possible. -A new toy now and again. -Another healthy year. -Many more healthy years to come. -Many more discussions with Paul and Pat � They talk; I listen. -No demanding encounters with anyone. -No demands or commands at all. -A No-Work" contract. -Happiness for all.

12/21/2008

Tucker's Christmas Carol for Scottish Terriers T�was a few days before Christmas And the oven is on, Pat is baking her famous P-nutty bones I await their arrival with patient anticipation. As I rest my head on the kitchen floor, I am thinking how we can share Pat�s delight. My friends from near and far, Would love to take a wee bite of the famous P- nutties. I will help Pat bag the treats up. For I know in my heart, That cheer is near. The spirit of Christmas is about celebration and cheer. I look forward to giving my friends a bag of nutty bones. They all will enjoy the gift this year. It will be among my fondest of memories. Yes, Christmas is near!!

12/16/2008

Tucker�s Seat at the Inn No matter what the day, No matter what the temperature, There is always a perch awaiting Tucker at his favorite Inn. The Inn could be full of festive patrons. Not a seat or perch to be found. No matter. The presence of Scottish royalty is at once recognized. All look in awe of the Scottish king. Mr. Tucker, as he is known to all. They all move aside, As the parting of the Red Sea. The king trots through the opening to his treasured stool. It is forever there for the royal one. The Innkeeper greets Tucker with the usual royal welcome. An evening of fun and frolic awaits. Scottish royalty is always welcome at Olde Magoun�s Saloon.

12/13/2008

Tucker and Washington It was not that long ago that the U.S. Congress approved $700 billion dollars for a program called TARP (�troubled asset relief program�). This outlandish and outrageous plan was �crafted� to give huge sums of taxpayer�s money to Wall Street bank executives without any strings attached. One half of this money has already been handed over to the very people who have gotten us all in the mess we now find ourselves in. Tucker thinks this is a dafty situation. Tucker wants you to keep one thing in mind. The bankers are getting all of our money, and they are the ones who financially engineered the mess that we now confront. What about the automobile companies, you ask? Well, they surely are liable for the situation they all face � falling sales and market share, subprime auto loans, a serious cash shortage, and a bleak immediate future. No worry, the Congress will stand idly by without offering a �lifeline.� Tucker is beside himself these days. He asks��Why do we give Wall Street public funds, and then allow them to lay off thousands of their employees � Citigroup (53,000) and Bank of America (35,000) and many more to come?� Tucker also inquires��Why won�t the U.S. Government offer reasonable and necessary assistance to the automobile companies?� There is a perfect storm brewing, according to Tucker. It is the confluence of greedy bankers and batty legislators that if allowed to continue on its current course, will produce a period of deflation that will make the 1929 depression look tame. Is anyone out there as outraged as Tucker is about the conditions we face? Let Tucker Know Your Thoughts

12/10/2008

Tucker�s Special Day Every day is a gift. We are thankful for the opportunity it allows. Even if the weather is inclement, The day can be bright. When we are blessed with a crisp, clear, bright day, We feel good about the journey the day will deliver. It is not important what we did at the start. Nor is it important what we did at the end. It is what we did during that matters. The totality of what we do represents our essential being. Each day offers special opportunities. The clouds and fog can conceal them. We must be alert to avoid missed opportunities. For they are special and they are not unlimited.

12/06/2008

Tucker�s Journey Journey by Tucker Trot through life proud and confident. Hold your head up high. And never be afraid of the unknown. At the end of every long journey is a golden respite. One that will replenish spent energy, and quench your every thirst. Though the journey may seem endless. You are never alone on the trail.

12/02/2008

Now by Tucker Live one day at a time. Do not live tomorrow today. Tomorrow is a certain unknown. Today has immediate relevance. It is now. It is upon us. It�s time is ticking. Take advantage of now. It may not last long. It may never come again. Do not let it slip away. Do something with it.

11/28/2008

Tucker�s Thanksgiving Thoughts I am thankful to Paul and Pat for allowing me to be a part of their lives over the past 11 years. They have been very happy years for me. I have never been scolded or yelled at. They have always fed me very healthy food, and have even gone to the trouble each day of boiling my organic carrots, ground beef and brown rice. I go everywhere with Pat and Paul. I love riding in the car. I am especially thankful that neither Pat nor Paul has ever tried to infringe on my independence and freedom. I would not be a Scottish terrier were I not free and independent. I love my life, my family, my freedom and, above all, I love my Scottish heritage. A better life, no Scottie has ever lived.

11/24/2008

Tucker�s Holiday Tips The holidays, shared with family and friends, can be wonderfully memorable. However, they can also be very stressful for both man and canine, especially our high-energy, very territorial and endlessly curious, Scottish Terriers. This will be Tucker�s eleventh holiday season. Nothing has escaped his curiosity. He wants to see, experience and taste everything. However, be especially careful with leftover food, and cautious about overwhelming your Scottie, especially a young puppy, with a large number of unfamiliar guests.

11/20/2008

Foreclosures and Canine Abandonment Treasury Secretary, Henry Paulson told members of the House of Representatives this past Tuesday that using bailout money for foreclosure relief would violate the intent of the rescue approved by Congress. Once again, Mr. Paulson has got it wrong. He thinks �investing� taxpayer dollars in our major banks, so they can buy other banks, continue paying dividends, and pay huge salaries to top executives, is the solution to our economic woes. He does not think that the real problem is home foreclosures. There would be no need for one trillion dollars of taxpayer funds to be turned over to the banking system with no strings attached, if those same banks would be willing to work with distressed families who want to remain in their homes and, would do so, if their banks would be willing to renegotiate the terms of the original mortgage. Tucker, our Scottish terrier, is extremely annoyed at this whole political and economic mess that has been created by the political and banking leadership of America. From a people perspective, this mess leads to loss of jobs and loss of homes. From a community point-of-view, it significantly reduces the ability of local governments to fund education, infrastructure, and public safety programs. From Tucker�s perspective, the foreclosure mess ultimately leads to many thousands of household pets being abandoned. This is very unsettling to Tucker. Thank goodness Shelia Bair, the chairwoman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, is involved in advising the Congress on the use of the bailout money. In fact, she is pushing a plan that would use $24 billion of the bailout fund to prevent foreclosures. Keeping people in their homes would prevent home prices from falling further; increase the value of the mortgage securities underwritten by the major banks; minimize the guarantee risks underwritten by the insurance industry and, most importantly, stop the abandonment of many of Tucker�s canine brothers and sisters.

11/17/2008

Happy Tucker Have you ever seen an unhappy Scottish terrier? Did you ever see a Westie that had the blues? One reason why Scotties and Westies are never unhappy is because they are not here to impress other Scotties and Westies.

11/13/2008

Tucker on the Boneheaded Bailout Tucker, as you might expect, is fascinated by the recent financial bailout plan crafted by Treasury Secretary, Henry Paulson and Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben Bernanke. In a panic-filled 24-hour period, they both came to the conclusion that they needed $700 billion to rescue the banking system that has presented us with the biggest, most complex public policy problem America has ever faced. Not only did they need the money fast, but they insisted that it be given to �Wall Street banks� with no strings attached. These two men, who have had their head in the sand over the past couple of years, now are supposed to be trusted with the biggest public expenditure of all time. Are you kidding me? These guys, according to Tucker��have it all wrong.� They seem to be thinking that the root of our financial problem is the liquidity of the banking system when the real problem is the ill-liquidity of the American worker. No jobs, no spending. No jobs, no business expansion. No jobs, no mortgage payments. No jobs, no car purchases. No jobs, no credit card purchases, etc. Well, you get the picture. Tucker understands that an American worker bailout is needed, not a public welfare program for the American banking system.

11/09/2008

Tucker and Fala As everyone knows, Fala was very close to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Fala loved to travel with the president. Over time, a very strong bone developed between Fala and the President he owned. This special relationship between Scottish Terrier and their primary human companion is unlike any other between canine and man. This bond is eternal and everlasting. The Scottie never loses the emotional attachment he has developed for his human companion. When FDR passed away at Warm Springs, GA in April 1945, Fala lived another 7 years always hoping and expecting to see the President at any moment. Fala lived a wonderful life with Eleanor Roosevelt after the president�s death. They were virtually inseparable. They went on long walks through the woods together; he sat beside her chair each day, and greeted her properly when she returned to their home. However, Fala never gave up hope of seeing the President again. Such is the spirit, optimism and loyalty of the Scottish Terrier. This is what makes them so special. They capture your heart and soul. Anyone who has ever been owned by a Scottie knows about this special bone. There is nothing like it on the planet.

11/07/2008

Tucker defends Barney John Decker, the Reuters Reporter, who stuck his hand at Barney, President Bush's Scottish Terrier. and was nipped on the finger as a result, says his mother has a Scottish Terrier, and he knows something about them. Tucker thinks that Mr. Decker, not only does not know anything about Scotties, but he also does not know the basic rules of approaching any canine. Never, never, did Tucker say never, do you lunge your hand in front of any dog's snoot. Even if the dog casually knows you, the act will be interpreted as an aggressive one, and the dog will respond in the only way it knows when he needs to defend himself. There are basic rules of behavior for both man and canine. But, in this instance, there is no excuse for human stupidity.

11/02/2008

Melamine Unregulated According to Chinese chemical dealers..."Melamine scrap continues to be added to animal and fish feed." Remember this? Protect your Scottie from melamine in his food, treats and toys. Any food from China, including pork, chicken, bread, cakes, seafood and candy can be tainted with melamine. There is no question that some Chinese melamine dealers are still selling to animal feed producers. They are playing a deadly game with U.S. importers, and ultimately our pets. Be sure not to buy commercial dog food. Also, be careful not to buy any dog treats, or rawhide made in China. The Food and Drug Administration should require that melamine, no matter where it is manufactured, not be in any food products period. Until this happens, we must all be careful what we feed our Scotties.

11/01/2008

Tucker's Portrait It has been said about artist, Lee Mitchelson that her work..."is the actual soul of the animal." She has been represented by some of the leading art galleries in the United States. Lee is a co-creator of Artists United for Animal Rescue, a select group of professional artists and photographers dedicated to making life better for animals in need. What does this have to do with Tucker? Well Lee Mitchelson sent us a note earlier this week that said..."No where else online can I find more delightful Scottie photos than yours of Tucker." A finer compliment can be found nowhere. Lee asked us if she could do paintings of Tucker and use them for an animal charity auction. Of course, Tucker gave his permission to Lee saying..."he would be honored to help with the animal rescue event." Isn't Tucker a handsome devil? You be the judge.

10/26/2008

Tucker's Friend Angus AS you know, Tucker has many friends. His loving personality is what endears him to many Scots and the souls they own. Angus is a FOT (Friend of Tucker's). He recently ordered a number of books from our great selection of wonderful stories about Scottish Terriers. Angus told Tucker that his companion Terry has written and illustrated a new Scottie book that is scheduled to be published in June 2009. Tucker can hardly wait to review terry's book. We will all be on the lookout for Terry's new book. In the meantime, Tucker and Angus will stay in touch.

10/20/2008

Tucker the Diehard Technorati Profile Tucker, like most Scottish Terriers, is always alert, feisty and quick a foot. He, in fact, is very much like a battery that won't die. As most of you well know, the breed's nickname is "little diehard" given to it in the 19th century by George, the fourth Earl of Dumbarton. As the story goes, the Earl had a frisky pack of Scotties, so brave that they were named "Diehards." Our Tucker though is a most loving soul. He is a compassionate companion; an understanding witness to the day's events and, most of all, he is a 'diehard' participant in all we do. We love him so much.

10/18/2008

Tucker's Inspirational Thought of the Day As you well know, Tucker, our indefatigable Scottish Terrier, always has something to say. This is his thought for today. Unknown by Tucker Never fear the unknown. It is full of both uncertainty, and opportunity. Do not be discouraged, as you gradually overcome adversity. Keep at it, no matter how slow. Depend upon yourself. Others can help, but cannot do. You are the one to make certainty from the unknown.

10/13/2008

Tucker's Top 10 Reasons Why He Likes Baseball This is the time of the year when Tucker becomes a true baseball enthusiast, that is, Boston Red Sox style. Tucker still has his 2004 World Series Champions Red Sox T-Shirt. His fondness for baseball, however, is not so much tied to the game itself, but rather in the things he gets access to when he watches the games with us. Here are Tucker's Top 10 Reasons Why He Likes Baseball: 10.) Get to sit next to a bunch of people who order a lot of food. 9.) When they are all in a delirious mood, get to scarf up their floor droppings. 8.) When everyone goes to the bathroom, get to sample the real good stuff. 7.) Potato salad anyone? 6.) Hot dogs are good, but I'm the hottest one around. 5.) Don't have to share any of the goodies with another dog. 4.) Don't have to get dressed up to watch the game. 3.) Don't have to watch out for foul balls. 2.) Don't have to deal with any stinky chewing tobacco. 1.) When the game is over, get to pick up after the "grown ups."

10/09/2008

It's a Foreclosure Crisis, Not a Banking Crisis, Say's Tucker According to the New York Times..."Declining home values have led to rising defaults and foreclosures, which in turn have devalued trillions of dollars in housing related assets...leading to a bailout of the banks and the current credit freeze." Tucker is well aware of the problem as he strolls around the city noticing the plethora of homes for sale. He wonders why the government is bailing out the banks, rather than fixing the problem - FORECLOSURES! We have heard or read recently: - "We have a banking crisis." - "We have a credit crisis." - "The banks must be bailed out." - "We must take ownership of some banks." The policy makers in Washington are way off the mark, and could not be more wrong with the fix they are proposing. Tucker suggests that we take the taxpayer money and fix the problem - FORECLOSURES. He asks..."Why give the money to the greedy few, when it should be given to the 39 million or so taxpayers who are in jeopardy of losing their homes?" If foreclosures are stopped, home values would rise: the value of bank securities would appreciate; people would be able to stay in their homes; many people would be able to keep their jobs; confidence would again be restored in the credit markets and, most importantly the many, rather than the few would be helped. There are approximately 128 million home mortgages in the United States today. If we assume that 30% or 39 million mortgages are at risk of defaulting, every "at risk" homeowner could be saved with approximately $200 billion per year over 5 years. The total cost would approach a $1 trillion dollar Home Security Package. Each "at risk" homeowner would receive $500 per month for 60 month to be deposited directly into their mortgage account. They would continue to make partial payments on their current mortgage, the bank would use the monthly deposit as payment between the amount owed and the amount paid. Tucker, the Scottish Terrier financial wizard, says.."Fix the problem, not it's symptoms."

10/06/2008

Canine Good Citizenship Tucker received an email from his friend Archie, an 11 month old brindle Scottie living in Connecticut. Archie would like to become a certified Canine Good Citizen. He wants to know what he needs to do. As many of you know, Tucker, our dear Scottish Terrier, subjected himself to to this "rather rigorous test" when he was one year old. The test was administered by the Scottish Terrier Club of New England, and it involves 10 separate tests that challenge the human owner (e.g. Tucker) and his Scottie companion (e.g. in this case me). The AKC's Canine Good Citizenship Program tests are: 1.) Accepting a friendly stranger. 2.) Sitting politely for petting. 3.) Appearance and grooming. 4.) Out for a walk. 5.) Walking through a crowd. 6.) Sit, Down and Stay on command. 7.) Coming when called. 8.) Reaction to another dog. 9.) Reaction to a distraction. 10.) Supervised separation. The test takes about 15 minutes or so, depending on the number of entrants. Praise and encouragement are allowed throughout the test, but food and treats are not allowed. More information about the CGC Program can be found at the AKC Website. Tucker and I worked together for a good three months on each of the 10 tests. We had great fun together getting ready for the "Big Day." Tucker passed the test rather easily. He was a perfect gentleman throughout the process. We have his award ribbon and CGC Certificate framed and it hangs in out home office for all to see. We are proud of Tucker. He is a good sport and a great Scot.

10/01/2008

Engineering America's Dynamic Future Now Tucker, our prescient Scottish Terrier, continues to be concerned about the current financial "bailout" debate in Washington. He tells me..."that the debate needs to shift from it's emphasis on bailing out financial engineers to investing in energy, civil and small business engineering projects." Most canines do not know what derivatives, collateralized debt instruments, and credit default swaps are. Tucker believes..."that most Wall Street investment bankers do not know what they are either, but they sure made a lot of money creating, trading, buying and selling them." Here is what Tucker thinks will happen if we invest $700 billion in America's future, rather than in today's credit markets. "The credit and financial markets will adjust to the sins of the past and invest in public and private projects that will enable the country to become the envy of the world again." He also believes that the new projects..."will create millions of new, well paying jobs, for middle class Americans." The bottom line for Tucker is this: "Subsidize real engineers, not those phony ones with MBA degrees." Well you heard it here first and, more importantly you heard it from Tucker, the world's brightest Scottish Terrier.

09/26/2008

Where Are the President's Highlanders? Tucker, our Scottish Terrier, tells me that there was a very important meeting at the White House yesterday at 4:00 PM. According to Tucker, the meeting was to discuss giving Wall Street $1 trillion as part of an overall economic rescue plan. Despite the fact that the meeting attendees included some of the most powerful men and women in America - Nancy Pelosi, John McCain, Barak O'Bama, etc, it apparently ended without a Wall Street bailout getting done and, also concluded on a sour political note. Tucker asks..."What went wrong?" He strongly believes that the meeting lacked a male and female who know a lot about finance, and possess superior wit, wisdom, and decision making ability far superior to those, mere mortals, in attendance. Tucker says..."that if the Presidential Mascots - Barney and Ms. Beasley had been in attendance, the meeting would have concluded on a collegial note, and would have resulted in a momentous agreement." The agreement supported by the President's Mascots, according to Tucker..." would require a $2.00 return on taxpayer money for every dollar invested in Wall Street. For those financial institutions unable to meet this requirement, they would go without taxpayer support." The Scottie mind is always at work for the American taxpayer.

09/22/2008

Another Crisis. Melamine Again Found in Food Tucker, our brilliant Scottish Terrier, is once again hopping mad. Why, you ask? He has read reports that melamine, "a plastic protein filler," has been found in Chinese infant formulas. Tucker says..."In less than a year, the Chinese have found a way to kill innocent pets and children through the use of this contaminant in the food chain." No More Melamine from China Many pet owners will Remember the FDA Pet Food Recall of 2007. Here is Tucker's advice..."Avoid like the plague any pet products produced in China and, above all, continue to read the ingredients carefully when you buy dog food." The large pet retailers - Petco and PetSmart - continue to carry many things made in China - toys, treats, rawhide, etc. Beware and be wise, avoid these products at all costs. Keep your Scottie happy and healthy by keeping him China-free!

09/18/2008

The Biggest Bank Robbery Ever Tucker, our wondrous Scottish Terrier, is a gentlemen's gentlemen, who is among the smartest and honest souls on the planet. He would never deceive another being by taking for himself what was rightfully not his in the first place. Moreover, he would never take from some being something that he did not know or understand. Nor would he give to another creature something that he did not understand. You see, these are the traits of the Scottish Terrier - morally grounded, intellectually honest, practical, and not a greedy bone in his little canine body. Well, that is why he is outraged today. He feels that..."Robber Baron bank robbers have defrauded the American taxpayers of trillions of dollars while the government was asleep at the regulatory wheel, and has allowed these thieves to keep hundreds of millions of dollars for themselves." Tucker Viewing the Bad News Unfold on TV Tucker says..."Yes, change is needed, and it is needed fast." What has been allowed to happen to America's financial system is according to Tucker..."the worst thing that has ever happend to this country. It affects all American taxpayers who, will ultimately be robbed a second time by the government to fix the mess." Wake-up America, and listen to the wisdom of a Scottish Terrier. He says..."Do not allow the thieves to get away with the money. Many must be held accountable and, ultimately be punished."

09/14/2008

The Clip Joint Yesterday was a big day for Tucker. He went off to the Clip Joint on Massachusetts Avenue in Arlington for one of his frequent social and grooming sessions. The owner, Julie, is always happy to see Tucker. She says..."He is always the perfect gentleman." Robyn, Julie's assistant, and Tucker's personal groomer from Tucker's point-of-view..."is the best!" The "Joint" as Tucker calls it is always a social adventure for him. He gets a chance to see his Arlington friends, especially Scrappy and Charlie. The three of them have quite a howl together. I, too, am amazed at how well mannered Tucker is during his grooming session. I attribute his good behavior to Beverly Cromwell, his breeder, and his many grooming sessions prior to his Scottie matches when he was a young lad. Tucker is the best Scottie. He always has been!

09/10/2008

A Social Encounter Tucker, our marvelous Scottish Terrier, and I were walking through the park the other day when a young woman approached and asked..."Oh, he is a handsome devil, what breed is he?" Tucker responded with this indignant look on his face..."Well if you have to ask, you don't deserve to know. And, oh by the way, what kind of devil are you calling me?" The woman was quite surprised by Tucker's snooty response, so I had to clarify what his true intent was. I explained to her that..."Tucker is a unique creature, and that he truly believes that he rules the world. So when someone does not recognize him in his self-assumed role, he gets quite upset." She seemed to understand, but nevertheless walked away shaking her head.

09/05/2008

Transformed in Philadelphia During the past two days, Paul was in Philadelphia. Needless to say, this was a difficult period for me, because Paul and I are very close. Before leaving for Philly, he said to me, "I will see you Thursday evening, you won't even know that I left." Well being the Scottish Terrier that I am, he should know better. Of course I would miss him, and my whole daily routine would be in shambles. However, I knew Paul has an important business meeting to attend, so I bit my tongue and accepted the fact that I would be without him for a couple of days. While Paul was there, he called and told me about a really cool canine event that will be held in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 6, 2008, it is called The 4th Annual Carnivale of the Dogs (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. This sounds like a great opportunity for the Scottish Terrier clans of Philadelphia to don their kilts, and prepare for a frolic in the park. Well getting back to Paul's situation. He met some great folks at a great business called The Neat Company, and he is going to manage their very first Boston store. He returned all excited about this development, and I was excited just to have him back home. He said..."He said his meetings at The Neat Company had a transforming effect on him."

09/01/2008

Ice Cubes Are Dangerous to Your Scottie Are you aware of the dangers of feeding ice cubes to your Scottish Terrier, or for that matter any dog? Giving your Scottie ice water, or ice cubes to chew on can be very dangerous to their health. The ice cubes can lead to violent muscle spasms and bloating. Signs to watch for: bloating in the stomach area, dry heaving, excessive drooling, and general distress. Although many pet owners have for many years given their Scotties ice cubes to cool them off, there is ample reason to be save and not do so. Normal room temperature water, or cooling with cold towels on the inner thighs is the best and safest way to cool your Scottish Terrier down on a hot day. Let us know your thoughts and experiences on this subject.

08/29/2008

A Visit to Porter Square Books Fiercely independent like Tucker, our Scottish Terrier, Porter Square Books has become a meeting place for bookworms and canine aficionados alike. Today, Tucker was on a mission to deliver some of his favorite treats Liver Stars to a new customer. He met his new customer last week at the Book Store. She is a dog walker who happened to have one of her clients with her - "Lady" a cute Bichon. Tucker shared his Liver Star treats with Lady and they hit it off immediately. One thing led to another, as they always do when Tucker is around, and he found himself with a new treat order that he personally delivered today. In Porter Square, there is more commercial activity going on than just book selling. And as you would expect, Tucker as always is right in the middle of everything.

08/27/2008

The Mark of Heisey Glass Since we offer Scottish Terrier collectibles and antiques at Scottieconnection.com,we are often asked about our views on the subject of Scottie collectibles. Recently we were asked about Scottie glass figurines made by the Heisey Glass Company. The inquiry comes from someone who has a Scottie figurine made by Heisey Glass around 1900. We have yet to come across a Scottie figurine made by Heisey Glass. If we do come across one, we would consider it a real treasure. Brief History In 1895, Heisey began building his own glass factory in Newark, OH. In 1900, the company began using its famous trademark, an �H� placed in the center of a diamond. The diamond �H� logo was designed by A. H. Heisey�s son, George Duncan. The idea for the design came from George Duncan�s fraternity pin. The diamond �H� logo would remain in use until the company�s closing in 1957. The company produced high quality, hand made glassware that was sold throughout the United States. Heisey Animal Figurines Most of the Heisey animal figurines, including Scottish Terriers, were introduced in the 1940's. The Heisey Glass Mark Approximately 80% of Heisey's glassware was market with the "Diamond H" trademark, either pressed in the glass or on a paper label. Its celebrated Diamond H trademark was known around the world. Today, it is a much sought after glass with collectors world wide. The mark is not always easily identify, and can be found in hard-to-see locations such as the back of a tiny dolphin foot or worked into the pattern on a pressed stem. Collector's Information A good beginning point for collectors of Heisey glass is an Identification and Value Guide that can be found on Amazon.com.

08/25/2008

Share Your Scottish Terrier's Travels Tucker loves to travel. We bet that you travel a great deal with your Scottie. Tucker would like to see how your Scottie spends his or her vacation. Do they lounge in a beach chair? Jump in the lake? Walk along the water? Try to get into the volleyball game? Play soccer? Just email your photos to customerservice@scottieconnection.com, and be sure to include your Scottie's name, where the photo was taken, and where you are from. Your photo will be published in our Online Photo Gallery as soon as they are received, and will be shared with our worldwide audience of Scottie lovers.

08/22/2008

Looking for Constance Coleman in Porter Square On a gorgeous Tuesday morning, Tucker, our brilliant Scottish Terrier, decided to take me to Porter Square in Cambridge to meet with Anne McNulty, our sales representative from Caspari, to order some Christmas Cards. In particular, Tucker wanted to order cards designed by Constance Coleman. She is recognized as a leading talent in Scottish Terrier art. Tucker agreed to meet Anne at 8:30 AM. As always, Tucker and I are notorious early-arrivees - 7:45 AM. With lots of time to spare, Tucker decided to take me on a tour of Porter Square. Following the geography and biology lesson, we were ready to meet Anne. Never the shy lad, Tucker spotted Anne and immediately approached to introduce himself and me. After the normal pleasantries, Tucker wanted to get the Christmas card order placed quickly, which we did. Meanwhile Tucker spotted a cute Bichon Frise named Bella. Tucker, being the sharing soul that he is, offered a Liver Star Cookie to his new found friend. Bella seemed to be in heaven with her new treat. In a matter of 20 minutes we were able to find Constance Coleman after all, as well as recruit two new admirers of Tucker, the friendliest Scottie alive.

08/20/2008

Even Tucker, Our Scottish Terrier, Uses Social Networks to Get Ahead Last week I was speaking with an Internet Marketing Consultant from HubSpot.com, and received some great advice. During our chat about Inbound Internet Marketing techniques, the discussion drifted toward the use of social networking and web 2.0. In short, Tucker and I were advised to join LinkedIn, an online network of more than 25 million professionals from around the world. We were encouraged to create a profile that summarizes our professional accomplishments, and promotes our business - ScottieConnection.com. Tucker immediately thought this was a great idea, so he asked me to follow this insightful advice. You can now find our new LinkedIn Profile online. Do you think social networking is a good way to promote a business? Please leave a comment below.

08/18/2008

Scotties 'n' Great Pictures of Scottish Terriers If you have not visited our Scottie Photo Gallery, Tucker, our Scottish Terrier, suggests that you take a peek at photos of all of his cute and adorable friends. They come from all over the United States and across the globe. You are in for a real suprise. You will love Tucker's Litter of Scottie Friends. Tucker would love you to send him pictures of your Scotties so he can include them in the Photo Gallery. Email your pictures to: customerservice@scottieconnection.com Tucker on the Lookout for Pictures

08/15/2008

How Far Would You Go To Keep Your Scottie Alive? What is your Scottish Terrier's life worth? Anyone who owns a Scottie knows how expensive veterinary services are today. Over the years, veterinary exams and services have gotten shockingly high. When I was growing up in the 1950's, an office visit for a routine exam and the required shots cost about $10. Now, you have to tap into your home equity line of credit to the tune of approximately $200. Oh yes, the veterinarians are better trained, and they do perform procedures - hip and cancer surgery - that were unheard of just decades ago. They also aggressively treat our Scotties with expensive drugs for all sorts of maladies. In short, our Scotties get many of the same procedures that we humans get. Tucker, our ever-watchful Scottie For sure, veterinary medicine is now, like human medicine, not cheap. And as vets increasingly take, as many expect them to, sophisticated and heroic measures to keep dogs in general and Scotties in particular alive, the costs will only escalate to stratospheric levels. So, I ask again. How far would you go to save your Scottish Terrier? Please send me your comments and examples. Share your views and experiences with others who are interested.

08/12/2008

Tucker's Monday Meltdown Anyone who owns a Scottish terrier is aware that they come with an attitude. They are self-confident, self-assertive, territorial and always ready for a challenge. These independent, free-thinking Scotties that own us are both a joy and, at times, exasperating. Yesterday was one of those exasperating moments that Tucker chose to share with me. We all know that if you suggest (ordering is out of the question) to your Scottie that they cannot sit on the couch, you might as well be talking to the wall. From their perspective, if the couch is good enough for the people that they "own," it certainly is good enough for them. Tucker certainly gets this point. Well yesterday, I left the house for a couple of hours around lunch time. Before leaving I put some pieces of carrot inside Tucker's Everlast Treat Ball. I do this all the time. It is a challenge for him to get the treats out of the ball and, when he does, he gets an attractive reward. All seemed perfectly normal as I left the house. NOT! When I returned, I found the phone book and a cook book torn to shreds. Other papers were also scattered on the kitchen floor. I asked Tucker..."What happened?" He stared at me with one of his ominous looks, and began barking and frantically lunging his head under the microwave oven stand. Just as if there was a fox or squirrel under the stand, he was in relentless pursuit of his treat ball. In the process of trying to get the ball, he destroyed anything else that got in his way - the books and papers. He has his target cornered, but he could not quite fit his head under the shelf to retrieve his ball. But, he know it was not going to escape as well. Everything was under control as far as Tucker was concerned. And, in the end, that is all that matters.

08/10/2008

Is your Scottish Terrier Happy? How tuned in are you to your Scottie's inner feelings? Many suppose that when their Scottie wags his tail, it means that he is happy. But we all know that our Scotties are very sensitive, and most of the time it is difficult to discern what is going on. Oh yes, when the teeth come out, and the ear-piercing bark is expressed, we get the immediate hint that something is going on. Scotties in many ways are much more expressive that many other breeds. They are very demanding, determined and expressive. During these moments, their "call to action" usually elicits the correct response from us. However, our Scotties can be very stoic, as well. They, therefore, can appear to be content, but such behavior can actually mask something serious. Tucker, our soon to be 11 year-old Highlander, is generally a happy fellow. We generally stick to our daily routine and, by doing so, he feels that he is in control of the agenda, and that he is getting what he wants. We pay very close attention to what he eats - we boil his food - and we make sure that his stool is normal in both size and substance. Generally speaking, Tucker expects to receive good homemade food, plenty of exercise, an abundance of sleep and rest, and a bountiful amount of love. He is happy when all of this happens according to his plan, and becomes slightly agitated when his rule book is not followed to the letter.

08/08/2008

Hyper-Vaccinating - That is What Most Veterinarian's Recommend Here is what Doctor Robert Rogers says to do: "My dog Splash was vaccinated for DHP at 8 & 12 weeks, Rabies at 16 weeks, and DHP Rabies again at one year. I am through vaccinating. Splash goes to the Clinic with me weekly where he is potentially exposed to parvo and distemper. We go on 25 mile horseback rides through the woods where there are skunks and bats. I feel confident he is protected for life." We are living in a world of hyper-vaccinations and medication. There is no risk-free vaccine. As with any medical procedure, there is a chance that adverse reactions may develop. Tucker, our soon to be 11 year-old Scottish terrier remains in good health, in part because we have decided to minimize his exposure to hyper-vaccination routines that are the norm in most veterinary practices today. On this practice Tucker says..."Keep me away from any veterinarian whose first instinct is to inoculate." Many veterinarians are beginning to realize that hyper-vaccinations can actually jeopardize your Scottie's life. Many veterinarians, on the other hand rely..."on annual vaccinations to bring in income." Again, Tucker's concern is the following..."I rely on the person I keep to help me maintain my health. Keep me away from the needle-pushers."

08/06/2008

The Risk of Over Vaccinating your Scottish terrier Allow your Scottie's immune system to remain strong by avoiding unnecessary vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian. It seems that whenever we bring our Scotties to the veterinarian for their annual check-up, we are immediately confronted with a recommendation to vaccinate our dear companion against every conceivable health threat known to man. Well, be careful, be wary, be cautious and above all be conservative. Your Scottie's immune system is a fragile biological mixture that can easily be compromised. The only legally-required vaccine in the U.S. is rabies. However, this vaccine is known to have Many Adverse Side Effects. Among them are allergies and skin problems, chronic digestive problems, muscle weakness and possible seizures. If your Scottie is a senior citizen, you will want to be extra cautious with any vaccination regimen. You are in charge of your Scottie's health, not your veterinarian. Ask questions about annual vaccinations - are they necessary? Are multiple agent vaccinations appropriate? Remember, each foreign substance introduced into your Scottie's body is a potential threat to his health and well being. Vaccinations...Too Many May Be Too Much!

08/04/2008

Tucker's Sunday Day Trip Yesterday, I accompanied Pat and Paul to a cookout in Vernon, CT to meet our 10 month old grand nephew, Lukas. It was a brilliant day with low humidity and bountiful sunshine. The drive down was unremarkable until we approached the toll booth in Sturbridge, MA. This is worse than being asked by homeless people on the street corner..."can you spare a million dollars?" Not only does the state want money from us, but they always seem to find a way to make it difficult to give it to them by creating a mile long traffic congestion to boot. While Pat and Paul made the rounds with the appropriate pleasantries, I met with Lukas. He and I seemed to hit it off brilliantly, in part because we each were moving around on four legs and were approximately the same size. Kelly the cat was another story. She seemed quite put off by my presence. My every approach to her was met with a hissing sound. I have no time for hissers. My next acquaintance was with Gabby, a cute little bird in his cage. His incessant chirping kept ringing in my ears. Nice bird, but not my type. Winnie, as she is affectionately known as, was there to meet with Lukas as well. Being the family matriarch, she did not want to miss an opportunity to be with her extended family. I last saw Winnie over 3 years ago. In another 2 years, I will become the patriarch of this brilliant family.

08/02/2008

Tucker's Frosty Paw After a long workout at the park today, Tucker decided he needed a rest. So, as always, he jumped into his throne in the living room to take a nap. However, before doing so, he grabbed a Frosty Paw, his favorite treat, especially on a hot summer day. Also, since Tucker has been writing a blog for the last 15 months, he asked me if I would register it with the fine folks at Technorati Profile

08/01/2008

Tucker Mosquito Warning During my trip to the park this morning, I was reminded of a news story I caught earlier today about West Nile Virus. I tell Paul on a daily basis to keep me away from mosquitos and pools of water where they gather. I also remind him to brush me often. Mosquitos do not hang around the Highlands of Scotland, but they have been found all over Massachusetts. Mosquitos of the world - Stay away from Tucker, he has a big bite!

07/30/2008

Tucker Thought of the Day From yesterday's Wall Street Journal, a reader said this about their pet. "We have a dog. We love him... We do not set up playdates for him, nor do we send him to day care. We don't concern ourselves with whether or not he is getting enough 'one on one' time with us. We reserve these activities for our children." This kind of thing happens all the time. People are multi-tasking, multi-familymembering, and are just plain multi-unfocused on anything important. Tucker asks..."Would your loving dog ever turn away from you?" Scottish terriers are too special to ever be ignored, and are too determined to ever let you do so.

07/28/2008

Tucker's Scottie-Fessions Scottie-Fessions by Tucker - I must have a marrow bone every morning along with my coffee (water and a drop of light cream). - I love riding in the car each morning while we take Pat to her office in Boston. - I cannot tolerate being without Pat and Paul for even a day. I go Scottie-Ookie when that happens. - I love being the rock star of the neighborhood. - I love being a Scottish terrier. There is no better creature on earth or elsewhere.

07/26/2008

Tucker's Sit Sit by Tucker I sit whenever I choose. I did not learn to sit. It was and is a natural behavioral act. Over 10 years ago, I was taken to a basic obedience class. I was only 15 weeks old. There, they "taught" me how to sit on command. It was hilarious. The word "sit" would be stated firmly. The person telling me to sit would stare at me. If I chose to sit, I would be told what a "good boy" I was, And I would also receive a treat. So, let me see if I have this straight. I sit when no one tells me. But I do not receive either an accolade or a treat. However, when encouraged to sit by someone, I get praised and receive a treat. Sitting is a natural act. But when accompanied by praise and goodies, It becomes an artificial act.

07/24/2008

Tucker's Walk Walk by Tucker Life is full of choices. Some promising. Others not. But all must be considered. A walk can be painful or fun. It is what we make it. Walk forward and lead. Or stroll behind and follow. Enjoy the walk in all ways. Bask in the glorious sun. And absorb the rain. But always have fun walking. Walking is a natural movement. It is a sign of vitality. Without a walk. We are without purpose.

07/22/2008

Tucker's Proverb of the Day Bark by Tucker If you are going to bark, bark well.

07/21/2008

Tucker's Thought of the Day Live by Tucker Live your life like the day is the last. Make it a memorable one. Squeeze each second. Savor each moment. Do not think of the last. Think only of now. ************************

07/19/2008

Tucker's Summer Dislikes Tucker has many preferences, but he also has a list of things that he seeks to avoid at all costs. This is especially so during the hot, humid New England summers. It Goes Something Like This: - "Stay away from Tick infested areas. Paul has had to remove a few ticks that recently latched onto me." - "Keep unleashed dogs away from me, especially galloping, unpurposeful Labs and Goldens." - "People who do not and cannot control their dogs should be required to spend a week in a crate at an animal shelter. Good Citizenship has literally gone to the dogs." - "Keep bug-eyed stalkers away from me. I know who and what I am, and like what I see very much." - "If you do not have a treat for me, I do not want to see you."

07/17/2008

Tucker's Free Shipping Offer Tucker is always thinking of ways to improve his business. Starting tomorrow, he is going to offer Free Shipping to any destination within the United States on merchandise orders over $85.00. Yes, Tucker will reimburse your shipping charges in full on all of your orders that total $85.00 or more. Your order will be shipped via USPS Priority Mail and will usually arrive at your destination within 2 - 3 days. Your shipment is personally packaged by Tucker and includes a personal Thank You Note from him. This is a Limited Time Offer so take advantage of it NOW!

07/15/2008

Tucker's Saloon As many of you readers know, Tucker is a frequent visitor to Olde Magoun's Saloon. You might say, he is a "regular customer." Here he sits in his usual seat at the end of the bar waiting for Caroline to serve him a Belhaven Scottish Ale, well sort of. Actually, it is a special doggie brew, but what Tucker doesn't know will not hurt him. After all, he gets to hang out with all of his friends in a real life saloon. The great thing about Tucker is that he is the perfect gentleman in these situations. he is unfazed by all the admiration and attention he attracts in these situations. He sits quietly and treats everyone politely and courteously. Great Scot - that he is - our Tucker!

07/13/2008

Scotties and Storms Storm Phobias? Some dogs, as well as particular breeds, seem to be prone to suffer from storm phobia. According to some veternarians, storm phobias..."tend to be associated with other anxeity disorders." An Internet survey reveals that some dog breeds are more susceptible to storm phobias than others. These breeds include...English and Scottish collies, German shepherds, beagles, bassets and other hounds and sporting and working breeds." Dogs that have been adopted from shelters are also susceptible to storm phobia. They may not have been properly trained as puppies or it's possible they have been abused. Mistreatment often causes dogs to have a wide variety of phobias that influences them throughout their entire lives. Scottish terriers do not seem to be captured by storm phobisa per se, but each dog and breed represents a unique situation. Tucker, our Scottie, is hardly phased by anything, let alone a storm. However, if your Scottie does become overly nervous by a coming storm, stay with him, and provide reassurance by not exhibiting by the sound and tone of your voice that anything is wrong. In fact, act normal and unfazed, and chances are that your Scottie will, as well. Storm Phobia References: Dogs and Lightening Storms and Fireworks Veternarian Advice

07/11/2008

Tucker and Carnegie Students at Carnegie Mellon University are very familiar with "Tartans" in recognition of Andrew Carnegie's Scottish heritage. For many years, students have donned an unofficial Scottish terrier costume to exhort their sports teams to victory. After over 100, Carnegie Mellon University made it official by adopting the Scottish terrier as it's first Official Mascot. The mascot has been named Scotty. Everyone knows that Bill Cosby is a true dog lover, but few were aware of his admiration for the Scottish terrier. However, Mr. Cosby has Donated a Scottie to Carnegie Mellon University.

07/09/2008

07/07/2008

Tucker's Outing Suggestion Have you ever been to Gloucester? Well, it is America's Oldest Seaport and a great town with many sites to see. Join Tucker on Saturday, August 2 for the popular Best Dressed Dog Parade. The parade begins at 9:00 AM. There is a $10 entry fee that is donated to the Cape Ann Animal Aid organization. The parade is held in conjunction with the Gloucester Sidewalk Bazaar. It will be a great day to do some antiquing, as well as have everyone else admire the beauty and spirit of your Scottish terrier.

07/05/2008

Tucker Patriotism Patriot by Tucker For good and bad, my country before all else. Without America, we would not be free. A family in bondage Is not free to choose. We can speak freely. We can fix what is wrong. We can fight for what is right. We can defend what is dear. We can think the unimaginable, And can achieve the unthinkable. Our country is full of hope, Not despair. She will bend, But not break. She will bleed, But not die. We are Americans, And have the world's greatest gift. Our country. Go patriots.

07/03/2008

Tucker's Independence Tucker will celebrate Independence Day in style. He will join us for lunch at Olde Magoun's Saloon for lunch. This is Tucker's favorite "watering hole" because not only is the food good, but he also gets to frolic with his best friend Sammy, a Jack Russell terrier. Later in the day, Tucker will go to the Independence Day Parade in Wakefield, MA. He will be the judge of the "Most Independent Dog" Contest. In years past, his ballots have contained only one name - Tucker. Tucker, Pat and Paul wish everyone greater independence in the future.

07/01/2008

Tucker's Parade The greatest Independence Day Parade in all of America is celebrated on July 4 in Wakefield Massachusetts. It is the oldest July 4 parade in Massachusetts, and it attracts over 100,000 spectators each year. Tucker loves this parade. His favorite's are the world famous drum and bugle corps from across America that participate each year. This year's Parade in Wakefield will include the following corps: Boston Crusaders, Boston, MA The Cadets, Allentown, PA Carolina Crown, Fort Mill, SC Crossmen, San Antonio, TX Oh, the parade begins at 5:00 PM on Friday July 4. Tucker will be there. He will arrive in his limousine driven by Paul, his personal valet. Celebrate Independence, other than Scottish terriers, Americans are the only earth-beings that have it.

06/29/2008

Tucker Ticked Tucker's Tick Removal Suggestions. Summertime is here in all of it's glory, and with it's risks, as well. Fun in the sun is great, and long walks in the wilderness and parks is also a joy. However, always be on guard for those pesky ticks. They are a danger to both yourself and your Scottish terrier. Earlier today, I found a tick on Tucker's head. I brush and check him everyday for such things. Ticks pose a health and infection danger to our beloved Scotties. Here are Tucker's recommended steps for safely removing a tick. 1.) Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers. 2.) Grab the tick by the head or mouth parts at the spot where it has entered the skin. View Tick Removal Technique. 3.)After removing the tick, place it in a jar of alcohol to kill it. 4.) Clean the bite wound with a disinfectant. 5.) Wash your hands thoroughly. Warning. Using methods such as a hot match, or alcohol will NOT cause the tick to back out. As always, Tucker was a very good patient today. The tick was successfully removed. I placed the tick in a vile filled with alcohol. If Tucker develops an infection, not likely, but possible, I can bring the tick to Tucker's Veterinarian to identify the proper antibiotic treatment. He trusts me completely. He is the greatest Scottie in the world!

06/26/2008

Tucker's Treasure Recently, Tucker received a note from Carol Pierce in Arizona. She is a Scottie lover and rescue activist. Carol has quite a Scottish clan of her own, and Tucker wanted to share it's members with you. From left to right, they are Austin, Molly, Winnie, Lucy, Maddie and Mac. They are all adorable and, from what Carol tells us, well travelled. In fact, Carol has taken the clan to Buck's Harbour Marine in South Brooksville, Maine on a "Scottie Hunting" expedition. Sure enough, at this quaint little coastal village, where you might not expect to see any members of the Scottish terrier clan, Carol and her gang discovered Barclay and Horatio, the two Scotties who own the Marine. This is a great little treasure of a place to visit where your Scotties will have fine, distinguished playmates.

06/24/2008

Tucker's Take Take by Tucker Take a moment. Or two. They are precious few. Take that brief escape. Take time to think. Take a respite from a hectic day. Seize control of now and what lies ahead. By taking a moment to contemplate. Take action. But make it thoughtful. Take rest. But make it needed. Above all else. Take care of yourself.

06/23/2008

Tucker's Economic Stimulus On Saturday, Tucker received this note from the U.S. Treasury Department informing him that he would soon be receiving his "Economic Stimulus Payment." The notice said that Tucker can expect to receive his stimulus payment by June 27, 2008. Needless to say Tucker was delighted to receive this bit of good news. In fact, he was so excite that he began practicing his new "Highland Fling" dance sans bagpipes. Tucker immediately wanted to put a list together of things that he would use the Economic Stimulus Payment for. Here is Tucker's list. 1.) Donate 65% of the money to Scottie Rescue. 2.) Use 10% of it to adopt a Scottie in need. 3.) Purchase a month's supply of marrow bones at the local supermarket. 4.) Invest in a video camera for Paul to shoot Tucker videos to share with his worldwide following. 5.) Purchase a Four Season's Gift certificate for Paul and Pat to visit the Bristol Lounge.

06/20/2008

Tucker's Rememberance of Shakey's Hill Remembering Shakey's Hill by Tucker They were so young then. Flowers that had not yet bloomed. They were soldiers. Sent to do battle 38 years ago. Many thousand miles away from home. They went about their mission. Cambodia was a place like no other. The intense heat of the day. And the thick, dark jungle. They went forward to encounter their foe. And encounter they did. The troopers of Bravo Company. They were the best of America. They suffered many physical and emotional losses. But the continued on with their mission. They fought heroically. But not in obscurity. Their trials and encounters were for all to see. So their sacrifices shall never be forgotten. They were soldiers all. ********* Shakey's Hill is an award winning Vietnam War Documentary by Norman Lloyd, a retired CBS News cameraman. He accompanied Bravo Company, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry for weeks during their Incursion into Cambodia in June 1970. He is my friend. I, and the men, I served with at that time, are forever grateful to him for telling a soldier's story so accurately, eloquently and powerfully. Shakey's Hill an Award-Winning Vietnam War Documentary Film.

06/18/2008

Tucker's Walk You'll Never Walk Alone" is a show tune from the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, Carousel. It is Tucker's favorite song of all time. When you read the lyrics, you will know why. You'll Never Walk Alone When you walk through a storm hold your head up high And don't be afraid of the dark. At the end of a storm is a golden sky And the sweet silver song of a lark. Walk on through the wind, Walk on through the rain, Tho' your dreams be tossed and blown. Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart And you'll never walk alone, You'll never, ever walk alone. Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart And you'll never walk alone, You'll never, ever walk alone. ****** Tucker lives his every day with the spirit and hope of these lyrics in his heart. The song has been performed by many famous artists. It is a very popular theme for several English and Irish football clubs, most notably Liverpool and Celtic. Whenever you are feeling the need for a little inspiration, Tucker suggests you listen to 60,000 Liverpool fans singing Never Walk Alone. If you are an Elvis Presley fan, his version is Spiritually Inspirational. One of the greatest performer's of Never Walk Alone was Judy Garland.

06/16/2008

06/13/2008

Tucker's Gallon of Gas Gallon of Gas by Tucker Today the gallon is $4.25. Tomorrow who knows. To be sure, it will be higher. But how much higher? There once was a day without gas. We all travelled by foot. Some of us with four paws. Will that day ever return? The world is a hungry place. The few consume so much energy. While the many go hungry for sustenance. I need no artificial energy to travel. It all comes from within me. If I want to go somewhere, I simply start walking. Although I do not travel fast. I get to where I am going just fine. What is all this fuss about the price of gasoline? Slow down and enjoy the scenery.

06/11/2008

Tucker's Coffee Day Coffee Day by Tucker In life's young morning I inhaled my coffee From my cherished bowl as it was carefully poured. As I drink, it gives vitality for the coming day. It provides energy and inspiration for my plan ahead. It leaves a glitter in my eyes, And a warmth in my heart. I dream of my coffee moment each night. It lifts me from blissful somber each morning. It is a wonderful beginning to my day. It lives forever in my mind. My coffee moment each day.

06/09/2008

Tucker's Freedom Freedom by Tucker What a joy it is to be free. Freedom makes a Scottie noble. It giveth the ability to rest, As well as the inclination to worry. Freedom is always there. But it must be taken, not assumed. It is powerful. Yet it is also humbling. Freedom is never to be given away. For it is the most valuable gift in life. Even more so than a slice of liver. It is more valuable than a house full of marrow bones.

06/07/2008

Tucker's Sun As we are about to endure several days of 90 degree temperatures, which Tucker detests, he, as always, has something to say. Sun by Tucker Great is the sun, It is all encompasing. Through the royal blue days, His rays come showering down. To keep the room cool, We call the air conditioner for relief. Yet as the day moves on, The sun tempers the brief relief. We cannot escape his golden face, He turns the green lawn to golden yellow. His warm and glittering endures. It touches everything on earth. The sun of the world is mighty and humbling. He can scorce as well as sooth. He can dry the earth as dessert. He can bring warmth when in need.

06/05/2008

Tucker Resting Tucker can never seem to escape the eye of the camera. Although he is used to the spotlight, every now and again, he seems to be saying..."let me take a wee Scottish nap." We love his directness and honesty. There is far too little of it in today's multitasking world. In Tucker's universe, the pace is considerably slower, and the outcome a bit mellower.

06/04/2008

Tucker's Disappearance Over the past couple of days, we seem to have lost our dear friend, Tucker, the frisky Scottish terrier, who we regularly visit in cyberspace. Although Scotties are famously known to disappear at the �drop of a hat,� our friend Tucker is also known for his fierce loyalty. Therefore, his disappearance is somewhat out of character. He enjoys the attention of thousands of people from all over the globe coming to visit with him each day. Being the social animal that he surely is, Tucker is excited each and every day by all the attention. He truly loves his Scottish terrier friends, and wants them to know how much he loves them. Tucker promises that his recent, albeit temporary, disappearance shall not be repeated again in the future. You give him strength, hope, vision, and encouragement each time you visit with him. Tucker welcomes you each day in his cyber-home as a true family member, and he especially thanks you for your loyalty.

05/30/2008

Tucker's Weekend recommendation If you are in the mood for an inspiring story about a Scottish canine this weekend, Tucker has just the book for you - Greyfriar's Bobby by Eleanor Atkinson. The book is considered a classic, ideal for adults and children of all ages. The story is one of unyielding love, admiration and fierce loyalty of a terrier named Bobby for his human companion, John Grey. When John passed away, Bobby spent the rest of his life sitting on his master's grave. According to tucker, "the story is a real tear-jerker." It is truly among his all-time favorites. A true Scottish tale. The movie Greyfriar's Bobby, made its United Kingdom debit in October 2006. You will love this story immensely. It is a great tale about a loving breed and their bond with human beings.

05/28/2008

Tucker's Weekend Recommendation The Scottish Terrier Club of New England is hosting it's 67th Specialty Show on Friday, May 30 in Wrentham, MA from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The Parade of Rescues will take place at 1:00 PM. If you ever want to see more Scotties than you can count, this is the event to attend. The Rescue Parade is worth it all by itself. But if you are into Dog Shows, this is one of the most prestigeous Scottie Conformation Shows in the entire United States. Even if you do not own a Scottish terrier, Tucker suggests you travel to Wrentham with you dog to enjoy a great canine event, as well as do some shopping at the Wrentham Premium Outlets.

05/26/2008

Tucker and Pat Tucker always enjoys going to Olde Magoun's Saloon. His best friend, Sammy, a 2 year old Jack Russell, is usually there to greet Tucker. Tucker enjoys looking out the large open window to take in the moving sights and sounds of Medford Street. As is always the case, Tucker is a show stopper. People driving by in their car and stop to wave and say hello. Others come up to him at the window to admire him. Tucker just always has a way with people. Pat was sharing the view with Tucker, but all of his attention was on the people walking by. As is usually the case, Tucker enjoyed his stay at the Saloon. His one disappointment was that Sammy was not there to greet him on this occasion.

05/23/2008

Tucker on Memorial Day Memorial Day by Tucker Memorial Day is a day of honor. It is a moment for all Americans, Young and old, To thanks those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. For without their sacrifice, America would not have been, Nor would it be now, Nor will it be in the future, The great nation she is today. The men and women in uniform, Who have given their lives for America, Must always be remembered by all for what they have done. They have died on the battle field, So all Americans can continue to enjoy their freedom. We must all reflect and remember the sacrifices of our soldiers. We must thank the families who will forever grieve the loss of their loved one. Celebrate your freedom, But always remember from where it came.

05/21/2008

Tucker's Wish Dear Senator Kennedy, Life has many challenging moments. You have faced many on your journey with great courage and dignity. You and your family have inspired a great many young men and women into public service. You have also served our great nation tirelessly and honorably for so many wonderful years. As you face perhaps the greatest challenge of your life, I hope you will take strength from my admiration for what you have done for America and use it to will yourself to full recovery. I wish you well on your current journey, and hope you will return to the Senate to help make quality heath care coverage available to every American. Sincerely, Tucker The World's Greatest Scottish Terrier If you would like to send a note to the Senator, visit Best Wishes and fill out the information on the form.

05/19/2008

Tucker's Top Ten List Tucker, the world's greatest Scottish terrier, and our constant companion, is always organized with a plan for each day. Here is his plan for today: 1.) Have my morning coffee. 2.) Drop Pat off at her office in Boston. 3.) Visit the park for some exercise and recreation. 4.) Tour the neighborhood. 5.) Chew on my marrow bone. 6.) Have plenty of brown rice, raw carrots and boiled hamburger. 7.) Watch some television. 8.) Catch a mouse. 9.) Get plenty of rest during the day. 10.) Be noticed by everyone.

05/16/2008

Tucker's No No by Tucker No day lasts forever. No night is too long. No morning is unpleasant. No daylight can be squandered. No moment shall pass unoticed. No tree shall be passed without marking. No day shall be wasted. No opportunity shall pass. No obedience to man. No yielding to anything. No looking back. No fear of the future. No is unacceptable. No day makes us older. No event maks us less wise. No day shall defeat us.

05/14/2008

Tucker's Look Look by Tucker To look and observe is to learn. To not look is denial. Observation puts nuances in perspective. I look every day. Nothing gets by me. I see you and me. You only see me. But only if you look. If you choose not to observe. You have lost. You cannot remember what you have not seen. It cannot be imagined. I want to see everything. Nothing escapes my view. I see things differently than you. And I imagine all with another view. You see but you do not know. I see and I immediately act. You see only with your eyes. I see with my eyes and nose. I am happy to see, hear and smell. Remember, I am always looking at you!

05/12/2008

Tucker's Great Day Great Day by Tucker Have one. It will invigorate you and all around you. Do something daring. Do something fun. Great days are few. So feel it and experience one. Go beyond your normal boundaries. Explore all of the day's offerings. Share it with everyone. Recall it forever. Relive it if you can. Forever capture it's essence.

05/10/2008

Tucker's Recommendation Treat Mom this weekend, and what better way to do so than to watch a great belly howling movie about a dog show. That's right get close to your Scottie on the floor of your entertainment center; grab a bowl of Pupcorn, and pop-in the Best in Show movie. You each can vie for the Best Spot to view this hilariously entertaining movie. You and your Scottie will each compete for the loudest and longest laugh and howl, respectively. Spend some quality time with your Scottish terrier and Mom this weekend. You will laugh endlessly! AAAAARRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

05/09/2008

Tucker's Wisdom Wisdom by Tucker Today is another performance. All living beings are the actors. They move around and about randomly. Scripting does not seem considered. Each seems to have a role. In the grand overall scheme. Some appear to have many parts to play. Others only a few. The grandest actor of all, Is the Scottish terrier, For he is the wisest of all creatures.

05/07/2008

Tucker's Happiness Happiness by Tucker Catch it, if you can. It is around you, and in front of you. Be. Go after it. Do not be afraid. It is within your reach. It is a state of mind. It is knowing thyself. It is not about things. It is about personal confidence. Walk down the road. You will find it along the journey.

05/05/2008

Tucker's Journey Journey by Tucker An endless journey. Paw prints all along the way. A companion to share the journey. A sniff or a tug. So bark aloud. For all to hear. We are all part of the journey. It is yesterday, today and tomorrow. Prance on proud Scottie. For all to see. And see they shall!

05/03/2008

Tucker's Confidence Confidence by Tucker Be bold, be free. Let nothing stand in your way. Confidence in self. Success in life. Continue the pursuit. Forever be bold. Put your heart in it. Use the power of your instincts and mind. Know how to rule yourself. And you shall rule others. Do not fear to be wrong. Intellectual strength is gained. Bark loud. And bark often. Be who you are. Not someone else. I am a Scottish terrier. I rock the world.

05/01/2008

Tucker's Observation Observation by Tucker From my perch, I can observe. Nothing gets by me. It does not exist, Until it is observed. Observing makes me think. It gives me a prompt, About what to do next. I do not observe myself. I study and observe others. My observations are not impartial. They are always followed by action. I am the keenest observer of all. I immediately gain a sense of what is. And prompt myself on what next. I always take careful notice. From my vantage point. All is observed. Nothing gets by me. For I am the keenest observer.

04/29/2008

Tucker's Milk Milk by Tucker Milk is my delight. I have it early each day. I enjoy it. And look forward to it. It is an expectation. And a source of energy and inspiration. My delight was not there today. I am still waiting and hoping. Did I do something wrong? Did I misbehave? I will not despair. I will not bark. I will continue to expect. I am sure it will come. My source is very reliable. It's absence was due to human failure. But the day is young. I am sure that I will enjoy my milk before too long.

04/27/2008

Tucker's Adventure Adventure by Tucker To live is an awfully big adventure. To live as a Scottish terrier is an awfully challenging adventure for someone else.

04/25/2008

Tucker's Challenge Challenge by Tucker Wake up to the challenge. It is there for you to grasp. Accept it. It will add exhilaration to your day. Explore everything in front of you. Overlook nothing. Discover yourself. Do not waste time. Decide what road to walk. And begin. Accept the uncertainty. Ignore the road blocks. See the journey to completion. No matter what the outcome. Never fail to try. Challenge brings richness to your soul.

04/23/2008

Tucker on Explore Explore by Tucker Never disappoint yourself. Explore everything. Stick your snoot in the ground. And start the journey. Discover what is there. You will also discover yourself. Do not worry about the extremes of heat or cold. Savor the journey. Visit somewhere you have not. Meet a canine neighbor you have missed. Swim in a river you have not before found. Go to a city you have never seen. Always acquire new knowledge. Do not back down from a fight. Your stature on earth will increase. Learn from all that you do. Explore all that there is. Overlook nothing. Learn from all. Be the grandest of all.

04/21/2008

Tucker's Top Ten Picks Most everyone knows that Scotties have been proud owners of some very famous people. Here is Tucker's all-time favorite list. 10.) Shirley Temple 9.) Queen Victoria 8.) Dwight Eisenhower 7.) Ali McGraw 6.) Memphis Belle Flight Crew 5.) Ronald Regan 4.) Charles Lindbergh 3.) Humphrey Bogart 2.) George Herriman 1.) Jackie Kennedy Of course, there are many more famous people that have been inspired by the intelligence, loyalty and love of their Scottish terrier, but none more than Tucker's very own companions, Pat and Paul.

04/17/2008

04/15/2008

Tucker's Faith Faith by Tucker Every day I have dreams. They are always alive within me. I set out each day to achieve the possible. Some days I surprise myself with the impossible. Always I dream. Always I believe. For without belief, there is no achievement. I believe to live. I live to believe. I go forward always. For to go back is not possible. Keep your dreams alive with a plan. Take action each day. Never waver from the mission. Succeed with determination and pride.

04/13/2008

Tucker's Curiosity Tucker's curiosity is legendary. Today, he poked his head in the shredded paper bag. We use the paper for packaging purposes. However, Tucker thought there was something good hidden in the bag other than just shredded paper. He rolled around in the bag until he satisfied himself that there was nothing more to it. Tucker subscribes to the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, HOW and WHY school of thought. All must be answered before he moves onto the next challenge. No Scottie ever becomes a fool due to serious inquisition. Everything is thoroughly investigated!

04/09/2008

Tucker's Exit Exit by Tucker As soon as you leave, you are entering another realm. Every exit forms and entry. Have no fear of leaving. There are always alternatives. Many for the better. Some not so. Fear none of them. Choose the new entry wisely. Start anew. Enter the new. Exit the old. When it is time to go. Go.

04/08/2008

Tucker's Looking Looking by Tucker I am looking into you, Not at you. I can see within, And through you. I can see your character. It is not something given. It is something earned. Your personal victory. I look at your behavior each day. In good times and bad. What you do in difficult times, has greater weight on your character. I see what you do in the dark. I observe it often. I see a man who prevails. A man who has great character.

04/03/2008

Tucker's Dream Dream by Tucker Chase your dreams. Our time is short. Make the most of each and every day. Run, chase, sprint. The clock is running. We do not know how many ticks are left. Seconds are just as important as minutes. Do not let one single dream escape. Act on your inspiration. Happiness may not always be the end result. But the chase is a worthwhile effort. Run as far and as fast as possible. The greatest of all is the one you are still chasing.

04/01/2008

Tucker's Wind Wind by Tucker With wind in your face, there is challenge. A calm day poses none. Intense wind can be very destructive. At times, it comes without warning. A bark, no matter how loud. Will not deter the wind from it's chore. The key is not to get swept away. For it happens to many. Safe sanctuary has a grand appeal. The strong will survive the howl. No matter how much debris is left behind. It must be recycled. For to survive is but one thing. The mark of greatness is left to those who rebuild.

03/29/2008

Tucker's Belief Belief by Tucker Believe in today. Learn from yesterday. Tomorrow is away. Concentrate on now. Set out to achieve. Believe in yourself. Make something happen. No matter what. Start the day fresh. Be enthusiastic throughout. Determination will minimize distractions. Courage will overcome opposition. Never doubt yourself. No matter the views of others. Be firm and purposeful. Be bold and daring. As light becomes dark. As enthusiasm becomes tapered. Assess the day's achievement. Get ready for the next challenge.

03/25/2008

Tucker the Scottish Poet Fear by Tucker The only mistakes are those that were not made. Do everyday. Test yourself often. If you have not done it. Do it. If you have done it. Do it better. Do not be afraid. Do what you fear, and you will lose all fear. Nothing is impossible, only you make it so. Rise up, start barking and get going.

03/22/2008

Tucker's Thoughts of the Week

03/21/2008

Tucker on Perseverance Perseverance To get up eight times when you fall seven times. Stay the course and you will conquer. Success comes from the heart and soul, not from brawn.

03/15/2008

Tucker's Blessing Tucker�s Blessing May you enjoy each day for what it is. May America�s freedom embrace and enlighten you. May your freedom embold you. May the blessings of America behold you. How envied America is in the world. Her freedom is her fuel for success. It awakens and energizes her people. And gives opportunity to all. America, gives hope to everyone. Her land is beautiful and bountiful. Her mountains are full of challenge and entertainment. Her rivers and streams are full of nourishment. May everyone be warm and happy in America. With the taste of her freedom. Every day in every way. And forever and ever after.

03/14/2008

Tucker on Bold Bold by Tucker, the Scottish terrier poet. Action is the key. Each moment counts. Do not dwell on the time. The outcome is most important. Dream big. Act larger. Imaging any possibility. Fear not. Be bold. Sometimes use caution. Be aware of all. But always focus on the desired outcome. Fear not to fall. Worry not to stumble. Ignore missteps. Step large. Step often. Think large. Act bold. Never hesitate. Do not fear danger. Step across the unknown. Look always ahead. Always be purposeful. Excel always.

03/12/2008

Tucker The Marvel Tucker has heart. He has enormous courage. He is fearless. And supremely confident. He judges himself through himself. He is his own guide. He walks the walk. And barks the bark. For after all, He is Tucker the fearless and confident one. He sees what is, And what can be. He will look you in the eye, And melt you instantly. Coddling he needs not. Direction he can do without. His journey is never complete. There is always more to discover. Time is a hindrance. For there is too little of it. Resourceful and clever he is. Solutions are found within him. Nothing can hold him back. For he is his own Scot.

03/10/2008

Struggle by Tucker, the Scottish terrier Struggle by Tucker Do each day. Do not dwell on what cannot. Focus on the now. Block out everything else. Each day is a new task. Approach it with enthusiasm. Assume each obstacle as a challenge. Remedy them one at a time. Fear nothing. Walk through the dark. Do not look back. Go forward forever. You may stumble. You may fall. Keep your balance. Pick yourself up. Have faith. Have courage. Challenge yourself. And you will succeed.

03/07/2008

Tucker on Adventure Adventure by Tucker Take a step into the unknown. It is exhilarating. Often, it can be dangerous. Always, it is exciting. Dare nothing, get nothing. Each day is a new life. To be reborn is to be fresh. Go where no path exists. Greatness comes from the bold. Such action opens closed doors. Through adventure, you become known. Without it, you learn nothing. Stare not at the water, cross it. Gaze not at the moon, visit it. Fear not anything, conquer it. Be glorious through adventure.

03/05/2008

Tucker's Walk On Walk On by Tucker, the poet laureate of Scottish terriers. Walk On Do not fear uncertainty. Use it to your advantage. Have a plan. And stick to it. Dream the ultimate. And do not waver. No matter the opposition. No matter the uncertainty. Endure the criticism. Overcome the pain. Be emotionally strong. And never deviate. With uncertainty, provide clarity. Be your own counsel. But be open to advice. But always decide for yourself. Accept yourself completely. Always be confident. Aim to step forward. Walk on always.

03/02/2008

Tucker on Rest Rest Rest is the fuel for action. It is a necessary ingredient to success. The weary become confused. And confusion leads to failure. Tucker knows the value and importance of rest. However, he does not let it interfere with spur of the moment actions. He knows that the journey cannot be completed without rest. He is also aware of it's contribution to health. A moment of rest is worth an ounce of gold. It enables the mind to solve complexity. It gives the heart the pause it needs. But most of all, it replenishes the will to persevere.

02/29/2008

Tucker's Travel Travel The day's journey is reward enough. Each day poses a new adventure. Each adventure brings anticipation. With anticipation comes surprise and predicted. Sometimes the journey is long and arduous. Occasionally it is short and sweet. Each begins with the smell of freshness. Some are clouded with pollution. Some days seem impossible. Others are traveled with ease. Although some days pose formidable challenges. It is important to meet them head on. Many adventures begin in darkness. Others end in darkness. The challenge is to always meet darkness with light. Shine light on the unknown. To do so makes the journey ever so clear. Make every now wow. Every minute must have meaning. Every step must have purpose. Every action must accomplishment.

02/27/2008

Tucker's Predecessor II Following the loss of Jack, Pat and Keren (our daughter) decided that we all needed to be owned by another Scottie. Upon returning from one of my many Eurpoean trips, and just before my birthday, I was presented with a little fuzz ball of energy and curiosity, oficially as a gift to me, but in reality a wonder to us all. We decided to name him Mac. He too enriched our lives in ways that no human can. He was always there for us, never for himself. He agreed to our every wish, and never demanded for himself. He was host, receptionist and entertainer to many foreign diplomats and high ranking officials who attended our frequent back yard barbecues and dinner parties. They were all mesmerized by Mac's political and diplomatic acumen. What a joy he was. We think of him and Jack daily.

02/24/2008

Tucker's Predecessor Jack, he was a very handsome Scot. Many years ago, oh about 38 or so, we found Jack at a pet store in Virginia. He was about six months old, and when the shop owner let him out of his crate, he started running around in circles. He was so full of energy, and so anxious to leave that store, we decided that he was to come home with us. He gave us so much joy. He was the beginning of our love for Scotties, and the reason why to this day, we would be very lonely without our Scottie. Tucker is with us now, and he always will be; just as Jack and Mac (more on him on another day) have always been with us.

02/21/2008

Tucker's Prose of Today Imagine Do not stop imagining. It is the energy that fuels tomorrow. Today is the present. And must be endured. Tomorrow is the future. And must be imagined. Do not look back. Because it is gone. Have the courage to go forward. Step out of today. And get to tomorrow. For it is the future. Get through the challenges and adversity. Do not dwell, advance. Do not worry about fault or failure. Do what you can. Do not exist, live. Imagine all that can be. Seize it. And do it.

02/18/2008

Tucker Imagined I imagine life to be what it is. No plan can alter my dreams. Dreams are more powerful that a plan. For they are full of spontaneity and wonders. Whatever I do each day, I do. Occasional genius, most often routine. The difficulty is sometimes easy. The routine is always difficult to endure. My heart is in everything I do. For without it, there is no serious action. I fear not; I conserve not. For to do so is not to achieve.

02/15/2008

Tucker's Reach Reach Accept the things that cannot be changed. Have the courage and tenacity to change what can be. Set goals that are higher than anyone can imagine. Bask in the knowledge of achievement, For there is none without goals to reach.

02/13/2008

Tucker�s Success Nature has set no limit to Tucker�s desires and dreams. He always either finds a way, or makes one. He, of course, was born to succeed. To Tucker nothing is impossible. Challenge him and he will achieve success. To any Scottie, nothing is impossible. This is not to say that achievement comes easily or quickly. To never think of failure, is the first step toward winning. Tucker�s flaming heart is his essential ingredient to achievement. He is greater than he is, because he achieves everything and more. Achievement for some is by finding a way. For Tucker winning is by making a way. Tucker believes that nothing is inevitable. Winning comes through effort and sacrifice. For him, no sacrifice is too small. Nor is any effort too large. There is a Scottie at the beginning of all great things. Let us all rejoice in Tucker�s ongoing achievements. Let us acknowledge in him applause for Uno. For today Uno can enjoy what Tucker experiences each day.

02/10/2008

Tucker Rocks and Rules And the winner is?

02/08/2008

Tucker � Best In Life With the canine show-of-shows arriving, Tucker is getting ready to enjoy the festivities. Several years ago, he and I pranced through the ring. We did so for the fun of it. And fun it was. Tucker instinctively got it. He enjoyed the touch and feel of the judge. He also relished the parade around the ring. After all, he was and is a natural walk-the-walker. Wherever Tucker is seen, he seems to draw a crowd. He has the look of greatness and the action of wisdom. His confidence and attitude are legendary. Whether leading or following, He is always ahead. He is always first, Because there is no last. Judges melt with his stare. They look as they have seen no other. In their mind, They have seen one for the ages. In fact, they validate what we have known from the beginning. Tucker is the best because he is loved by all. Let the show go on for Tucker will be watching. Scotties rock and rule no matter what the final outcome. Just ask anyone who has ever seen Tucker.

02/06/2008

Tucker�s Super Comments Super Sandwiched between the sport and canine �super bowls,� Was a super political day like no other ever in America. Our country�s future is about to be shortly determined. The breed of tomorrow shall be determined next week. At hand is the very relevance of democracy in the future. Will it survive and thrive in the hands of �insiders and lobbyists?� Or will it fall far short of relevance in those very hands? Will the current group of �insiders" leave America a stronger place than they found? Who is best able to bring about national unity? Who is best able to think and act on a grand scale? Who is by temperament able to build consensus across differing constituencies? We truly are facing an historic moment in our nation�s history. Just as was the case in Superbowl XXLII, the clear favorite can experience defeat. Nothing should ever be taken for granted. The politics of hope are an emerging and fresh force. They capture and energize the young as never before. We cannot allow the entrenched to dictate tomorrow�s agenda. Just as the Scottish terrier lives and acts for yesterday, today and tomorrow. The outcome of any election, show or game is determined in the ring, on the playing field, and in the election booth. We are at the turning point; will we make the right decision?

02/03/2008

Tucker's Moment The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of today. Tomorrow is a bit of yesterday and much unknown. Today is beautiful, because it is here. Seize the moment for it is brief. Learn from today and use it tomorrow. Continue to dream for it is the food of greatness. Dreams are full of what may be. They do not speak of yesterday. Tucker�s dreams are glorious moments. They are full of yelps and howls. His dreams await the waking moment. They propel him into immediate action. Tucker�s dreams provide hope as he springs into action. His initial actions are unplanned. Tucker relishes the day without a plan. He thoroughly enjoys the surprise of the unexpected moment.

02/01/2008

Tucker�s Look Look Look high, says Tucker. Never stare at the ground. Look man and canine right in the eye. For not to is a sign of insecurity. Tucker�s look is his will to survive. To him, it is the first condition to victory. Victory is a bright, warm and fuzzy day. Or, it could be a day defined by beautiful white snow flakes. His look is the mark of endurance. He does so with great strength and temperament. His will is stronger than that of man. His eyes capture only strength. Tucker lives and survives with honor. He endures with dignity and honor. His creed is family, honor, duty. Through his look, everyone knows why.

01/30/2008

Tucker�s Journey Journey The prance through life is the reward. Nothing is more savored than the uncharted path. Tucker is truly a traveler. He relishes each and every day. For Tucker, it is about the journey, not the destination. He relishes the twists and turns along the road. The joy for Tucker is in the doing, not the finishing. Each day represents a series of steps along the path. The path is somewhat uncharted. For Tucker there is no count to the steps taken each day. It is not about the number, it is about what is confronted along the journey. No matter what the outcome, Tucker�s respite is the return to home each day. As an adventurer, Tucker understands many things. They are many more than the average canine. His heart is fresh each and every day. It beats with anticipation of the forthcoming journey. For Tucker each day brings liberty. It is the opportunity to think and act as one pleases. Although the years add to his age. He begins each journey as if he is a playful child. There is no fear about the journey ahead. There is just the eagerness to go forward. In Tucker, the spirit burns so very bright. He learns for the light of each and every day.

01/28/2008

Tucker�s Today Tucker looks at today and sees it for what it is. To him it includes the predictable and the unanticipated. Today shall be much of what yesterday was. Quiet, peaceful, restful and full of nourishment. Today is and shall be a good day. It will include small steps forward and few steps backward. It shall be as much of what Tucker makes of it, And be devoid of unnerving challenges. Part of today will be filled with frolic, And much of it will be captured by rest and tranquility. As the day advances, It becomes a sequel to a previous day. As the day nears its end, It becomes a prelude to tomorrow. Today is not yet tomorrow. It has some of yesterday and more of what is to come.

01/25/2008

Tucker on Persistence Persistence Life is like a marathon. It is a long journey that requires persistence. Stick to it long enough, And the journey can be completed. Never think about the end at the beginning. At the starting line, It is important to focus on the early stages. Enthusiasm must be kept under control. Keep pace within yourself. Never lose sight of the overall goal. The journey must be brought to completion. For never to finish is to disappoint and fail. Pain must be embraced in order to finish. The journey cannot be completed without discomfort. Fuel for the journey must be burned wisely, And must be replenished along the way. Persistence is needed in order to finish. It is the spark that ignites physical and emotional strength, The necessary ingredients to approach the finish line. The end of the journey is a reflection of all one has done. There is nothing that cannot be finished. It is a matter of persistence at every check point. No trumpets sound at the finish line. The end is achieved silently and triumphantly.

01/23/2008

Tucker's Success Success is not for everyone. Nevertheless, everyone can succeed. Tucker succeeds where others do not. There is no magic to his success. All can achieve it. But all do not. It is there for the taking. But many choose not. According to Tucker, the reason is simple. The road to success is filled with halting and painful steps. Many choose not to endure the ordeal. Instead, they choose not to endure pain and sacrifice. All Scotties are born to succeed. And, by and large, most do. They have what most men do not. They fear failure to much not to succeed.

01/21/2008

Tucker's Loyalty Faithful is our Tucker. He is ever there for us. In good and bad, His loyalty is unwavering. Tucker deeply believes in independence. Independence of spirit and action. His loyalty is the outcome of his unconditional love. His love of life and companion. Complexity is not a part of Tucker�s personality. For his loyalty is everlasting and endearing. Tucker�s loyalty is not placed for momentary gain. It is forever unconditional. Tucker�s greatest loyalty is to himself. He is a Scot who knows what he is about. Living today is very important to him. He will not sacrifice today for tomorrow.

01/15/2008

Tucker's Moments Tucker's greatest moment is not in never failing, but in jumping up each time he fails. Of course, failure is a rarity for our gifted boy Tucker. Nevertheless, it does occasionally happen, but Tucker always prances forward, never dwelling on his failings.

01/11/2008

Tucker's Thought for Today Life to Tucker is determined, not so much by what life brings to him as by his cheerful and positive attitude on display each day, not so much by what happens to him as by his behavior to what happens. Inspired by Lewis L. Dunnington Lived by Tucker

01/08/2008

Tucker's Political Tail New Hampshire is not far away. An hour�s drive North on Interstate 93 and you are there. However, New Hampshire is a world apart from Iowa. And, today becomes a key battle ground for presidential hopefuls. Tucker believes that Barak Obama remains the hope of the Democrats. However, on the Republican side, a new front runner is likely to emerge. Senator John McCain is likely to surface as the choice of New Hampshire voters. A McCain win will mean that there will be no clear front-runner for the Republican nomination. In New Hampshire, the Scots win again, and Tucker could not be more content.

01/04/2008

Tucker�s Political Commentary As many of you know, Tucker has views and opinions on many topics and issues, including yesterday�s results from Iowa. On both sides of the aisle, Democrat and Republican, it is uplifting to note that record numbers of voters turned out to make a statement to our nation and to the world. According to Tucker, forget experience, the voters want change. They want to embrace someone who has a positive vision of our country�s future. Two highly improbable candidates, Mike Huckabee and Barak Obama, have been catapulted onto the world stage. Neither one is now the improbable nominee of his respective political party. Each of these candidates was able to make a direct connection with �real people.� The messages of hope, the notion of change, the ability to connect with the working class, are what distinguish these gentlemen from all the other candidates. Will the outcome for Republicans and Democrats change next Tuesday in New Hampshire? Perhaps, but for now, Tucker is thrilled with the change in the status quo.

01/01/2008

Tucker's New Year's Wish This beautiful Scot brings happiness to us each and every day. He wishes everyone a very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year. And, he especially hopes that the New Year will bring eternal peace to the men who survived Shakey's Hill over 37 years ago. Bravo Tucker!

12/26/2007

Tucker at 10 Tucker is ten years old today. Here are Tucker's top 5 reasons for not wanting to be 70 today, or any other day. 1.) I will never retire. 2.) I will never admit my age. 3.) I will never become a burden to society. 4.) I will never accept public assistance. 5.) Scotties never grow old, we are forever young. 6.) Scotties never walk alone.

12/20/2007

Tucker the Scot The Scot has never been servile, and has always regarded independence as the first of earthly blessings. His love of liberty has never been subdued. History has taught him to stand firmly on his own four legs, and to look the world steadily in the eye. He is quick to resent rebuke or even the mildest criticism.

12/18/2007

Tucker and Snow So far this winter, Tucker has encountered more snow than the entire winter of 2006. Although Tucker has his own waterproof rain and winter jackets, he truly does not like snow. Here are Tucker�s real thoughts on the subject. Snow Snow is to be avoided at all costs. In order for snow to fall, it must be cold. When it falls and sticks to the ground, It sometimes drifts well above my head. Snow is a substance that must be removed. Before I step outside, the snow must be pushed aside. I always find myself slipping and sliding. My paws and pads get cold very quickly. Snow is an unavoidable nuisance. I do not enjoy it, nor will I ever tolerate it. It seems to come and go as it pleases. It deposits itself in the most unlikely places. Snow wherever but not in my yard. Do not cover my walkways. How can anyone be tolerant of the substance?

12/11/2007

Tucker's 2008 Wish List Tucker�s 2008 Wish List 1.) More time with Paul & Pat. They both work so hard. 2.) An opportunity to catch a squirrel each day. 3.) More cats to chase in the neighborhood. 4.) Bigger and louder squeaky toys to rip to smithereens. 5.) The opportunity to ride in a big, red fire truck. 6.) A strict ban on walks in the rain. 7.) More of Pat�s home cooked meals. 8.) More Thomas� English muffins. 9.) A new ball to chase. 10.) More tummy rubs.

12/09/2007

12/06/2007

Tucker's Hope Hope Tucker hopes that an alpha leader will emerge. One who has a vision of tomorrow. A leader who can transcend partisanship. And who can marshal support for change. Tucker realizes that much needs to be done. He believes that no one can work if they are sick. He hopes that everyone can be cured of their fears. It will take an alpha leader who offers hope to all. And who brings change to many. Hope without change is an empty bowl. An empty bowl left unfilled results in neglect. Tucker hopes no one is ever neglected. No alpha leader would ever allow such a state to exist.

12/05/2007

Tucker's Clan Tucker�s Clan Clan is a group related by blood, marriage. It is a collection of commonly bonded relationships. For some, a clan can be a clique or a sect. For Tucker, the clan descends from the Scottish Highlands, And is composed of all Scottish terriers. Tucker�s clan has a worldwide reach. And includes many Scotties with far reaching interests. Some are named Annie, Archibald and Tullio. Others are called Katie, Kaycee and Simon. All are bound together as one large common family. And all are in pursuit of one common goal. Scottish terriers from the Highlands of Scotland. They are the rulers of the universe.

12/01/2007

Tucker the Wonder Wonder Tucker is a wonder. He is astonishing to observe, And a wonder to behold. He never fails to surprise. Tucker is the ever-curious. He is a marvel of mischief. To be far superior for some is quite a burden. For Tucker superiority comes with the breed. Tucker is a Scot to be admired. His novel approach to life is no surprise. He is constantly in a state of wonderful wonder. And why not, he is Tucker the wonder.

11/27/2007

Tucker IS! If You Were� Fearless to the point of being calm when facing unknown dangers. Loyal to the point of being utterly devoted to family. Protective to the point of never allowing harm to family. Determined to please within reason. Spirited to the point of always reaching for the stars. Independent to the point of being self-reliant. Confident to the point of rejecting uncertainty. Defiant to the point of reluctantly accepting authority. If you possessed all of the traits and behaviors listed above, you would be Tucker, one of the greatest Scottish terriers to ever live. He is what he is, and we love him dearly.

11/24/2007

Tucker's Questions for the Candidates Before we know it, the presidential candidates for the Democratic and Republican Parties will be chosen. Will 2008 be a "Happy New Year" or will it present the American people with perplexing and incomprehensible choices between the best "pixels and sound bytes?" Well, ladies and gentlemen, before things turn into a political circus where there is no ringmaster, and the process has been turned over to the most outlandish political animals, Tucker has a list of questions that each candidate must answer. Here are Tucker's questions: 1.) What role will the U.S. Dollar play as an international currency in the future? 2.) Do you favor lower interest rates by the Federal Reserve during 2008? 3.) Will you lower taxes? 4.) How will you avoid a recession? 5.) Will you reinstall the draft? 6.) Which is the greater threat to our economy � the federal deficit, or the possibility of a recession? 7.) How high does the cost of health insurance have to go before you do something about it? 8.) How will other nations view America under your leadership? 9.) What is your time frame for withdrawing all American troops from Iraq? 10.) How high do gas prices have to go before something is done about it? Are you like Tucker? Do you want answers to serious questions? Or, are you satisfied to vote for the candidate who "feels warm and fuzzy?" If you are inclined to vote for the "warm and fuzzy" candidate, then Tucker deserves your vote. Not only is he "warm and fuzzy," he is also capable of answering each of these questions with articulate, thoughtful, practical and compelling responses. Who among the current crop of candidates is capable of matching Tucker?

11/22/2007

Tucker Has No Fear Fear Fear is something that cannot be avoided. It does not take a battlefield for it to be present. Fear can be unnerving and make one apprehensive. It is something to be dealt with each day. Fear grips your emotions. It can cloud your intellectual clarity. Fear can move one toward a state of paralysis. Or it can challenge one�s ability to remain calm. Fear should be met head on. For it is better to face the unknown. Fear can be consuming. But do not hesitate to face it.

11/18/2007

Tucker's Monday Monday Monday is the first of a seven day week. Why seven, not an eight day week? Monday can be energizing, or it can be challenging. To be first is always great; third or fourth can disappoint. Monday can be like the start of a marathon. The beginning is always fresh. Monday gets you to the start of a huge challenge. As one travels the road, Monday becomes but a remembrance. Monday becomes another day in the sequence of events. Some roll through the sequence with ease. Monday is always the launch point. Wednesday is always the mid-point.

11/17/2007

Tucker's Fun Fun Fun is to be free of leash and control. And to innocently explore the open wilderness. Fun is to walk the neighborhood. And to be recognized and admired by all. Fun is a source of energy and contentment. And it provides many hours of satisfaction. Fun can be challenging and serious. And it can occasionally lead to trouble. Fun could occasionally be boring. And every now and again, it can cause worry. Fun is most often an acceptable norm. And at the very least, it captures the spirit of independence.

11/14/2007

Tucker's Day Day Days follow into weeks, months and years, Some pass unnoticed; others shake your very emotions. Days can be long; some can be short. Some can be productive; others can be futile. Days can be challenging; others can be boring, Some drain you of energy; others fill you with ambition. Days can offer quiet, resplendent moments, Others can be filled with chaos and disarray. Days can be both a measure of success or failure. Most days offer silent unremarkable outcomes. Days can test your very heart and soul. They are the ones that draw spirit and character.

11/11/2007

Tucker's Every Moment Every Moment Each day is full of moments, Many in fact. There are good and bad moments, Splendid and unpleasant moments. In one�s life, A handful of moments often stand out. Some moments are to be cherished, Others are to be remembered, Still others are to be exiled from memory. A moment is but a brief passage of time, In that instant something wonderful can occur. Embrace such moments for they are rare. Rare moments do not become common, Every moment is unremarkable. To turn the ordinary into the remarkable, One must focus on every moment.

11/10/2007

Tucker's Every Day Every Day Every day is a new day, to explore the trails of life. Every day is a fresh beginning, to take on the challenges of life. Every day allows me to sniff the air, to sample the quality of life. Every day enables me to walk along, to smell the scents of the day. Every day is a new wonder, to take in stride. Every day enables me to appreciate, the meaning of the moment.

11/04/2007

Tucker's Red Sox Moment Tucker does not care very much about getting dressed-up for any occasion, but last week, he was moved by the Red Sox World Series win. In fact, so moved was Tucker that he donned his own official Red Sox baseball cap to demonstrate his support for the Old Town Team, a phrase that long precedes "Red Sox Nation." For the four game series, the Sox had it all - starting and relief pitching, timely hitting and well timed boomers, defense and speed on the bases and, most of all, they had supreme confidence in themselves. They were wonderful to watch. The Boston Red Sox had on display during the Series all of the essential ingredients one finds in a Scottish terrier champion. Tucker was quick to recognize these championship qualities, because he possesses them all and MORE!

11/03/2007

Tucker and Noel Noel is visiting today; what will he bring Tucker's way? Will he be gentle or cruel? Will he come leashed or unleashed? Will Noel storm in or creep out? Will he arrive with a heavy or light paw? Noel oh Noel, from thee what can Tucker expect? As you pass through, will you leave our trees standing, or will you spread their branches randomly throughout? During you journey, will you leave Tucker with energy or without? What will it be Noel? Will it be troublesome or free? Will it be treacherous or hazard free? Will your winds howl and be foul? What will it be Noel? Tucker insists that he know. His howl has more force than your gale. What will it be Noel? Tucker must know!

11/01/2007

If Tucker Can... If Tucker can stop one heart from breaking, He shall have lived in achievement; If he can ease one life from suffering, Or lessen the numbing pain, Or help one failing Scottie Onto his bed again, He shall have lived with distinction and meaning.

10/30/2007

Tucker and Paul We had our Second Yappie Halloween Spookfest last Saturday. The photo was taken a bit before the fun began. Tucker had a grand time greeting everyone, and checking out their outfits. Although it was a difficult choice, because of the many contestants, Tucker decided on a Grand Prize winning pair. Let us know what you think! Midnight and Dorothy (a.k.a. Helen) Cheers!

10/26/2007

Tucker's Spirit As you know by now, Tucker is a great admirer of great men and women. Tucker believes that George C. Marshall was one of the greatest leaders in American history. "It is not enough to fight. It is the spirit which we bring to the fight that decides the issue. It's morale that wins the victory." George C. Marshall Tucker, and all Scottish terriers, know well the importance of "spirit" to the outcome of anything in life. If you do not possess the spirit of a winner, you are doomed to lose no matter how good you think you are. A positive spirit can overcome superior talent. When you have both ingredients, as does Tucker, you can take the whole world on, and win.

10/25/2007

Tucker's Platonic Note "The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men." Plato Just think for a moment about this profound statement. Tucker, the world's brightest Scottish terrier believes..."Politics is controlled by the few for the few who control it." Apathy leads to control which leads to absolute control which leads to loss of freedom which leads to the death of the state. Tucker may appear to be sleeping in the above photo, but rest assured, he is ever vigilant and actively engaged in the important issues of the day.

10/24/2007

Tucker's Great Mind Tucker admires some of the great people in American history, even though he is Scottish. Tucker believes that Eleanor Roosevelt was one of the greatest individuals, man or woman, to ever grace the planet earth. Eleanor Roosevelt "Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people." Tucker never fails to use someone else to point out the obvious - events and people dominate the media landscape of today's America. Is it because there are no great ideas out there, or is it because there are no ideas at all?

10/23/2007

Tucker's Inspiration of the Day Success To bark endlessly; To win the respect of intelligent and unintelligent people; To find the best in others; To appreciate the beauty of a Scottish terrier; To leave the world a wee bit better; To know even one human whose life was made a wee bit better because of me. This is to have succeeded.

10/20/2007

Tucker's Recall Alert According to Tucker, the self-anointed watchdog of the pet food and supply industry..."There is yet another recall of a pet product manufactured in China." His words..."Here we go again." In an October 19 email notice sent to independent pet supply retailers, Petedge announced that it is..."voluntarily recalling Top Performance brand ProDental Toothpaste with Toothbrush kit because the toothpaste could contain diethylene glycol." If you are an auto mechanic, you surely are familiar with this substance. According to Wikipedia... "A solution of diethylene glycol and water is used as a coolant. Diethylene glycol is toxic to humans and animals, and death can occur by renal failure." The toothbrush kit sold by PetEdge was manufactured in China. Here is yet another case of the Chinese trying to kill our pets. Now is the time for every Scottie owner to declare a boycott war on China, and resole not to purchase any product for their pet that is manufactured in China. In the recall, there are two SKU's affected: Beef flavor: UPC 721343128151 Mint flavor: UPC 721343128564 If you have this product in your home, immediately throw it away. If you are looking for a safe alternative to care for your Scottie's dental needs, we suggest that you purchase products from Virbac Animal Health. This is an American company that has been in the pet care business for 30 years. Once again, Scotties to the rescue. Tucker rocks.

10/19/2007

Tucker's Top 10 List of Things that Bother Him 10.) Houseflies that attack my food. 9.) Big dog's that think they are bigger than me. 8.) Young children who run towards me with their arms and hands flapping in the air. 7.) Obedience class. I march to the beat of Scottish drums. 6.) Anything mediocre. I will have only the very best. 5.) People who think they are smarter than me. Boy have they got it all wrong. 4.) People who do not like Scottish terriers. What planet are they from? 3.) Politicians who will not protect dogs from the cruelty of human beings. 2.) Veterinarians who do not have a clue? 1.) Dog show judges who do not realize that all Scottish terriers are champions.

10/18/2007

Tucker's Historical Perspective Tucker is a serious student of history. He believes, unlike many of America's current decisionmakers, that history is bound to repeat itself if we do not learn from it. Tucker realizes that there have been many great men and women in history. America today seems to be burdened with men and women of timidity and indecision. In Tucker's words..."No one man or woman is willing to take a stand against the enormous array of the world's ills." Yet many of the world's greatest movements, of thought and action, have emanated from a single person. According to Tucker: A young monk began the Protestant reformation. A young general extended an empire from Macedonia to the borders of the earth. A young woman reclaimed the territory of France. A young explorer discovered the New World. In America, according to Tucker, it was a 32 year-old Thomas Jefferson who proclaimed that..."all men are created equal." Tucker believes that it is from the diverse and numberless acts of courage and belief that have in the past and will in the future shape the course of human history. Where are the great men and women of today who will articulate a vision of our country's future and, by their sheer will and courage, allow the rest of us to in our diversity and many numbered acts to shape our destiny? Where are those of us living today who are willing to heed and cherish the words of Robert Kennedy stated so many years ago..."Some men see things as they are and say why. I dream of things that never were and say why not." Greatness as seen through the eyes of our worldly Scottish terrier, Tucker. Every day, he acts out the R.F.K. dream. Tucker does not dream of things at all, he acts where others become fearful. He dances happily through life each day knowing that his many and diverse acts not only shape his own destiny, but profoundly affect the lives of his friends, Pat and Paul.

10/17/2007

Tucker Bakery Recommendations As you know, Tucker has never been one to turn down a treat. When we opened our bakery and boutique, Tucker insisted that we offer the most interesting and healthy treats available. While virtually all of out baked treats are Hugh favorites, here are a few that have captures Tucker's taste buds. Pup Pizza Slices Tucker's NEWEST TREAT! Scotties are going wild over this treat! PUP PIZZA Slices! Made with a topping of Low Sodium Turkey Bacon, Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese, Carrot Tomato Puree, and Herbs. Great for parties! Turkey & Cheese Delights These tasty turkey & cheese biscuits will have your Scottie on his best behavior! Made of fresh ground lean turkey, cheddar cheese and parsley, these biscuits will please the most discriminating Scottie palate! HALOWEEN SPOOKY DELIGHTS For the coming Second Annual Spookfest, Tucker insisted we have some spooky things to bite into. Bark-O-Lantern Cookie These festive 4" Bark-O-Lantern cookies (peanut butter flavored) come individually packaged in a cellophane bag and ribbon. Batty Bats Bats measure 5" across and are coated with a rich layer of sweet carob. All our decorated cookies are made with peanut butter and hand painted with yogurt and carob. Comes individually wrapped with ribbon. To be sure, Tucker leads a pampered life. He insists on having only the best for himself and his friends. Any of the above treats can be purchased at the store, or by special order. Just call the store (781.646.0021) and ask for Tucker. He will happily take your order.

10/16/2007

Tucker's Second Annual Halloween Spookfest Get ready for an afternoon of canine Halloween fun and comedy, and Boston's funniest pet costume contest. Join Tucker and his cast of spooky canines for the Second Annual Spookfest at the Scottie Connection store in Arlington, Massachusetts. Shamrock had a great time at last year's event. His cowboy outfit was a big hit, but his personality was something special. Shea had a blast last year. He never misses a chance to dress up. He refuses to tell Tucker what costume he will wear this year. Time: 2:00-4:30 PM Location: Scottie Connection 169 Massachusetts Avenue Arlington, MA 02474 Phone: 781.646.0021 Costume Contest Prizes Free refreshments and treats for all!

10/13/2007

Tucker's Recent Speech Before a packed audience of Olde Magoun's Saloon patrons, Tucker recently spoke about the great code of conduct and chivalry of those Scottish terriers that guard and protect their beloved human companions. He began his remarks with three powerful words: Spirit, Courage and Loyalty. These are the three hallowed words that define the essence of a Scottish terrier. As a Scottie, they teach me to be proud and unbending in honest failure, but humble and gentle in success. They mean not to substitute barks or gestures for actions, not to seek the path of comfort, but to face the stress, difficulty and the challenge of each day. Stand up in the storm, but also have compassion on those who fall. Master yourself before you seek to master others. Have a heart that is clean, and a goal that is high. Learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep. Reach into the future, yet never neglect the past. Above all, be serious, yet never take yourself too seriously. Be modest so that you will remember the simplicity of true greatness. These three words give me a temperate will, a quality of imagination, a vigor of the emotions, a freshness of the deep springs of life, a temperamental predominance of courage over timidity, an appetite for adventure over love of ease. They create in my heart the sense of wonder, the unfailing hope of what next, and the joy and inspiration of life. They teach me in this way to be a Scottie and a gentleman. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts on the essence of my heart and soul. Tucker received a 5 minute standing ovation from his many admirers, many of whom had never been so moved by man or small creature so profoundly. Where are all the Tucker's of this world. They are badly needed.

10/12/2007

Tucker's Poem Eternity is not possible, but blissfulness is a Scottie state. Happiness is not an ever lasting state, but Scotties can be happy with little. To look and observe is to be vigilant, a state in which we often find our Scottie. A demanding, testing state can be a challenge, it is often how we find ourselves with our Scotties. If stature were measured by the bark, Scotties would stand the tallest of the tall. Fear is an unknown state. Scotties look at dark clouds and see rainbows. Scotties are rainbows themselves. They are shining bundles of gold.

10/11/2007

Tucker Believes I believe every day is a new beginning. It is to sense that miracles happen, and to believe that dreams can become reality. To believe is to see Scotties dancing among the clouds, and to embrace the wonder of the universe and the wisdom of Scotties in heaven. To believe is to find the strength and courage that lies within the Scotties soul. When it comes time to begin anew, to believe is to know that I am not alone, that life on earth is a gift and this is my time to cherish it. To believe is to anticipate wonderful surprises for they will surely come, and all my hopes and dreams are a paw grasp away, if only everyone believed.

10/10/2007

Tucker's Winter Tips We all know what to expect during a New England winter - cold, frost, snow and ice. Each of these conditions poses a serious threat to your Scottie. Tucker has given some thought on what you can do to keep your Scottie safe, happy and healthy during the deep freeze months. Limit the length of your walks during the winter. Think of how cold you are during the walk. If you are really cold, so is your Scottie. The salt and other chemicals used to melt ice and snow can irritate the pads of your Scottie's feet. Wipe the feet with a warm damp towel before your Scottie licks them and irritates his mouth. Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract your Scottie. Keep him away from it. Keep your best friend safe and healthy during the winter, and he will remain your loyal and everlasting best friend. Right Tuck? If you see your Scottie lifting his paw, or hear him whimpering, you can safely assume that his paw pads are frozen. Just think what it would feel like if you were walking on snow or ice in your bare feet. It would hurt. You can minimize this distress by purchasing a pair of doggie boots, or by applying Mushers Secret Wax to your Scottie's paw pads. Additionally, although your Scottie has a fury winter coat of sorts, we all know you can never be too warm out in the cold of the winter. Tucker suggests acquiring a lined Winter Jacket or a lined, waterproof Rain Jacket for extra protection and comfort. Salt and other chemicals that melt ice and snow can be harmful to your Scottie. After your walk, wipe the feet with a warm towel before your Scottie licks them and irritates his mouth. Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Its sweet taste may attract your Scottie. Keep him away from it. If you take care of your best friend during the winter months, he will remain your loyal, everlasting best friend for ever. Right Tuck?

10/09/2007

Tucker's Happiness Happiness Tucker is always asking what the meaning of this word "happiness" is while at the same time demonstrating the "state of happiness" time and time again. Tucker is probably happiest when he is in the company of other Scottish terriers. They seem to innately connect with each other, much as members of a clan do. If happiness is the opposite of unhappy, Tucker tends to be one content Scottie. However, he does emote unhappy expressions when given a "command." He tends to obey, but with a great expression of reluctance. He is certainly happy during his feeding times throughout the day ( 5:30 AM, 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM). He loves his home cooked/boiled meals. He seems to be happy to be a member of our clan even though we are not Scottish. He does not seem to be hung up on ethnicity. Tucker is happy because he is what he is - a beautiful, independent Scottish terrier. He rules both his world and ours. We are very happy for him. We love him dearly.

10/06/2007

Tucker's Birthday Gift On Thursday, October 4, I celebrated yet another of my all too many birthday's. To me the day has no special meaning, other than the fact that another year has passed on by. However, Tucker would not let the day be anything but special, especially for himself and me. In his card to me were the following inspirational words: Together we light up the world For almost 10 years we have done so Now and forever You are always part of me And think about all of the barks and words between us They never needed to be spoken Now and forever I remember the first day we met I remember each and every day as if the first I have cherished all that has followed Now and forever I am always thinking of you I am always admiring you I am always trusting you Now and forever I enjoy celebrating with you I so enjoy our walks together Now and forever You are always on my mind You will always be Now and forever

10/05/2007

Time to Rest I'm tired. I need to rest. Paul had a big birthday celebration yesterday. We were partying all night. So I will just stake my claim to this spot in the kitchen where I can rest my weary bones. I just need to rest for a short while though, because the Red Sox, my favorite baseball team, are playing the Angels in the American League Divisonal Series. Since the game begins at 8:30 PM, I have time to relax before game time. Since baseball is not played in Scotland, I am no expert, but I am rooting for the Red Sox to win the series, and move on to the next level. It seems like the right thing to do, don't you tink? I resolve not to get too caught up in the inevitable hysteria surrounding any Red Sox game played these days. I wish them luck tonight, but I am not going to stay up late to see the final outcome. I will retire before midnight, and learn about the game's outcome from Paul in the morning. For now, I am going to continue my rest and relax program. Please Do Not Disturb!

10/04/2007

Tucker's Recall Notice Tucker says..."Here we go again." On September 18, Bravo! announced a voluntary recall of select tubes of three of its poultry products for cats and dogs. The pet food is being recalled because two of the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, while the other product has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. According to the Food and Drug Administration, Both Salmonella and Listeria are organisms which can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and if there is cross contamination, in people, especially small children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people with Salmonella infection may only suffer short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Long term complications can include arthritis and other more serious ailments. Healthy people with Listeria infection may only suffer short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Recalled Pet Food Product: Bravo Original Formula Chicken Blend frozen raw food Product Numbers: 21-102, 21-105, 21-110 Sizes: 2 pound, 5 pound and 10 pound tubes Batch ID code (on hang tag): 236 Reason for Recall: Salmonella, Listeria Product: Bravo Original Formula Turkey Blend frozen raw food Product Numbers: 31-102, 31-105, 31-110 Sizes: 2 pound, 5 pound and 10 pound tubes Batch ID code (on hang tag): 236 Reason for Recall: Listeria Product: Bravo Basic Formula Finely Ground Chicken frozen raw food Product Number: 21-212 Size: 2 pound tube Batch ID Code (on hang tag): 226 Reason for Recall: Salmonella, Listeria People may risk Salmonella infection not only by handling these pet foods, but also by contact with pets or other surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap. Anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella or Listeria infection after having handled the recalled product should seek medical attention. In an effort to prevent the transmission of Salmonella from pets to family members and care givers, the FDA recommends that everyone follow appropriate pet food handling guidelines when feeding their pets. FDA Tips for Preventing Foodborne Illness Associated with Pet Food and Pet Treats.

10/03/2007

Tucker's Haloween Tips for a Safe Halloween Halloween is a fun time for almost everyone, but not necessarily so for your fur child. An excited pack of ghosts and goblins at the door can scare your furry family member. If you have a puppy in the house, beware of holiday decorations. Wires and electrical cords pose a dangerous invitation to your young, teething pet. With the door to your home opening and closing a lot to greet the Trick or Treaters, be careful that your pet does not decide to follow one of the rascals home. Also, be sensitive to the children who may be afraid of dogs. Carving up a pumpkin can be a fun exercise, but placing a lighted candle in it may be hazardous to your pet. Inquiring minds and wagging tails can easily lead to knocked over pumpkins and burned tails and noses, or worse. If you take your dog out for a walk on Halloween night, be sure that your pet is leashed. Dogs can easily be spooked by costumed "little people." Keep candy away from your pet. Some of it is toxic, like chocolate, but candy wrappers can be very harmful, especially if swallowed. Remember, not all pets are good with getting dressed-up. Yes, some pets are hams, but still others become very stressed by the costume parade. Finally, keep your pet inside on Halloween. People have been known to tease, injure or steal pets and worse on Halloween. ASPCA Halloween Safety Tips Halloween Safety Guide More Safety Tips AMVA Halloween Safety Tips Tucker says..."Have fun, but be safe."

10/02/2007

Tucker the Great Tucker is our (Pat & me) best friend. He is also an integral member of the family. He has been for almost the better part of 10 years. He continues to be now. We cannot imagine living without him. He is a true Scottish terrier treasure. He is a beautiful, elegant, sophisticated, serious creature. He takes himself very seriously. He has the prance of a noble, and the look of a king. Every day we realize that we are in the presence of greatness. Like Alexander the Great, he received an Aristotelian education at an early age. Like Alexander, Tucker is handsome, courageous and intelligent. During the day and out in the field, Tucker is tireless. We also believe that he is a dreamer and, as such, is given to fits and moods occasionally. Like Alexander, Tucker took a small territory and made it bigger. He expanded his control over it, and will never relinquish any of it to anyone else. Tucker is a fighter and conqueror. We are his subjects. Tucker's sense of humor has won us over. His character and Scottie values are two of the things that make Tucker the Great so prominent in our lives.

09/29/2007

Tucker as Governor Scottish terriers are political animals. They hang out with presidents and heads of state. They are used to the exercise of power, and the corruption that sometimes comes with it. Our dignified, humorous and graceful Scottish terrier, Tucker, has his mind made up that he will become the next Governor of Massachusetts. He has given careful thought to the major issues facing the citizens of the Commonwealth. If elected governor, here are some of the things that Tucker would do immediately: 1.) Get rid of the current Cadillac limousine and replace it a new Scottish red plaid collar and lead. 2.) Abolish the state employee pension system and give all citizens of the Commonwealth a tax refund of $10,000 each. 3.) Move the State House to Springfield, and replace the bag men, pocket stuffers and gamers with Scottish terriers. 4.) Abolish the Massachusetts lottery system and replace it with bingo barking nights at the Governor's mansion. 5.) Consolidate the state's 21 "independent agencies" into one publicly accountable body that reports directly to the governor. 6.) Limit the number of days that state employees can work to 100, and reduce their salaries by 50% and abolish all overtime pay. 7.) Put a freeze on public school construction and remodeling, and set-up a $1 billion building fund for charter schools. 8.) Replace all state judges with savvy, tough Scottish terriers that are determined to get the criminals off the streets of the Commonwealth. 9.) Increase the price of gasoline to $6.00 per gallon, and invest the difference in infrastructure improvements and mass transportation. 10.) Get government out of lives of the citizens, and enable them to pursue life, liberty and happiness. To cast your vote for Governor Tucker, submit your comment below!

09/28/2007

Tucker's Plato Moment Confident, curious, demanding, eager, insistent, loyal and clever. Each of these attributes apply to Tucker, our cherished Scottish terrier. On many days, you can look at Tucker and be fairly certain that he is having a philosophical moment. In the picture above, I captured him in one of those moments. If he could speak, he would offer you the following quotation from Plato: "A hero is born among a hundred, a wise man is found among a thousand, but an accomplished one might not be found even among a hundred thousand men." Where are the men of accomplishment? Where have they gone? If you know where they are hiding, please let Tucker and me know.

09/27/2007

Tucker's Second Annual Yappie Halloween Party Date: Saturday, October 27, 2007 Location: Scottie Connection Store at 169 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA 02474. Time: 2:00 - 4:30 PM. Free Refreshments for canines and the people they own. Best costume prizes. Photos by Bette Yip from Picture Perfect Pets. This event was a yapping success last year, and Tucker is looking forward to seeing all of his old and new friend's at this year's yappening. Yappie HaLLOOOOOOOOOOOWWWEEEEEEEEEEENNNN!

09/26/2007

Tucker's Concierge Service When traveling with your Scottish terrier, Tucker suggests that you think carefully about the unsaid concerns and fears of others. Let's face it, some people are afraid of dogs. Others are just plain uncomfortable around dogs. Others yet do not know what to make of our little big Scotties. For everyone's comfort, Tucker's first rule of travel etiquette is always have your Scottie leashed. Dogs, in general, spook easily in new environments and surroundings, and can become unpredictable. It is always best to be safe. "Pet Friendly" hotels are not always pet friendly. Always call in advance and ask to speak with the hotel manager about their pet policies. Most "pet friendly" hotels prefer the smaller breeds. Some have size and weight guidelines. Some will not allow larger breed dogs, and some will not allow more than one dog per room. Better to find out what the policy is in advance than encountering an unpleasant surprise in person. Oh, and don't forget to ask what the pet related extra charges are? You may also be asked to sign a pet liability release form. When speaking to the hotel manager, ask what kind of pet amenities are offered - treats, meals, beds, bowls, pet-sitting, pet-walking, etc. The more services and amenities offered by the hotel, the more comfortable you and your Scottie will become. Always assume the following rules of etiquette exist, unless the written rules state otherwise. Do not leave your Scottie alone in the room without first checking with management. Always hang the "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door. Provide water and food for your Scottie in the bathroom or on tiled or hardwood floors. No all Scotties are neat-nic's. Do not bring your Scottie to breakfast or to the dining room. Also, do not assume that he would be welcome in any of the hotel public areas. Always ask. Report any damaged property immediately and volunteer to pay the costs. Make sure that you bring all creature comforts from home - blanket, bed and pillow, favorite treats and snacks, plenty of food - to enable your Scottie to be blissfully comfortable. We want our Scotties to leave a lasting favorable impression on everyone encountered during our travels. Our Scotties deserve that and they expect us to help make that happen. By planning ahead, it will! Tucker, thanks for the travel tips! Pet Travel Trends Pet Friendly Places

09/25/2007

Tucker's Travels Tucker goes everywhere with us, and according to the Travel Industry Association of America, about 29 million Americans travel with their pets each year. Increasingly, many Americans are travelling with their pets in the air. These days, airline travel can, at best, be problematic, and, at worst, can be a nightmare. If you are planning to bring your Scottie with you in the air, there are certain rules of thumb all Scottie owners should follow: Obtain a Health Certificate from your veterinarian a few days before your departure. Fly during off-peak hours early morning or late evening flights in summer, midday flights in winter. If you have a layover, schedule one with enough time to step outside the terminal to walk your Scottie. In-cabin small dog option Many airlines allow you to bring a small dog (usually 15 lbs. or less) into the cabin when confined in an approved soft-sided pet carrier and stowed beneath the seat in front of you. There is a fee for this service. You should check this with your airline. Below cabin travel option enables you to reserve a secure spot in a temperature controlled and pressurized pet compartment. Be sure to affix a large photo of your pet to the travel crate, and write "Live Animal" on the top and sides. Put a familiar blanket inside the crate for your pet and, if at all possible, avoid giving tranquilizers. Tucker hopes that his advice is helpful to you and especially to your pet. Happy tails on the trail! Midwest Airlines Frequent Flier Program for Pets. Traveling with Pets

09/22/2007

Tucker's IQ I remember when I was young, my parents wanted to find out how "smart" I was. I do not remember how many IQ tests I was subjected to, but there were many. I do not need to subject Tucker, our Scottish terrier, to an "intelligence test" because I have known from the beginning that he is far smarter than any human being, and absolutely superior to any "smarts" I might have accidentally acquired. Here is the proof of Tucker's superiority and the intelligence of the Scottish terrier breed. "The average age of the worlds greatest civilizations from the beginning of history has been about 200 years." The history of the Scottish terrier breed dates from 1436. These little, feisty, clever critters have easily outlasted all of man's collective efforts to remain intact. So, how smart and clever are Scotties? Well, there are simple tests that you can perform with your benevolent dictator. He are a couple: Dog IQ Test. Test Your Pet. How Smart is Your Pet? If you try these tests, have fun with them. However, do not be deceived into believing that you are actually measuring your Scottie's intelligence. It truly is the opposite. Your Scottie is measuring you. Scotties are BRILLIANT!

09/21/2007

Tucker on Rabies Earlier this month the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced..."The elimination of canine rabies in the United States represents one of the major public health success stories in the last 50 years...However, there is still much work to be done to prevent and control rabies globally." Globally, there are at least 55,000 human deaths annually around the world attributable to rabies. Many people in China are killed by rabies each year. Only 3% of dogs in China are vaccinated against the disease. In the United States, canine-rabies elimination was achieved by vaccination, dog licensing and stray dog control. While dog-to-dog transmission of rabies has been eliminated, this does not mean that your dog cannot contract rabies. The disease is ever-present in wildlife and can be transmitted to our pets. Tucker suggests being especially vigilant during walks through the woods. Be wary of skunks, raccoons, foxes and coyotes. For further information consult eMedical Health.

09/20/2007

Tucker's Holiday List Tucker says it is never too early to think about holiday gifts. Of course, he thinks everyday is a holiday. Despite being surrounded everyday by an array of treats, baked bones and cookies, toys and accessories, Tucker is quite remarkably unmaterialistic. Please do not misunderstand Mr. Tucker, our Scottish terrier, he would never turn down anything new, especially if it had a delicious taste, but if he had his choice, and he almost always does, he are some of his all-time favorite gifts: 1.) A half-day off-leash romp and stroll through the woods. 2.) A new rescued sister or brother Scottie soul mate. 3.) Ten minutes of belly rubbin' six times each day. 4.) A bunch of squirrels to harass. 5.) A large sack of Liver Star Cookies. 6.) Lots of creature and canine visitors from Scotland. 7.) Two weeks off from work. 8.) A marrow bone each day. 9.) A starring role in a movie about Scottish terriers. 10.) A trip to Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, Scotland. Once a Scotsman, always a Scotsman. Scotties are forever. Tucker is for even longer!

09/19/2007

Tucker's Poop Alert Most pet owners act responsibly and do pick up their dogs poop. However, there are always a small number of owners in every neighborhood in America who do not pick up after their dog. Maybe these folks think they are part of the Brown Generation - as long as poop is anywhere other than in their own yard, it is OK. Perhaps they are inclined to let nature take its course. After all, they probably think that for thousands of years no picked up dog poop, so why should we begin now? Well, for one, the city streets and sidewalks are not set in nature. Pet waste left on sidewalks, streets, neighborhood yards and lawns is more than a significant eyesore. It can create serious health risks. Poop left on sidewalks and streets eventually gets swept into the storm sewers, which discharge into city and town waterways without any treatment. Pet poop has been considered responsible for almost one-quarter of the fecal contamination of the waterways - the very same waterways from which we obtain our drinking water. Oh and don't forget the flies - Poop Pouncers. They refuse to confine themselves to the poop they have discovered on our sidewalks and yards. Some of them eventually find their way into our homes. Flies sit on our furniture and counter tops, etc. They are filthy. They do not wash their hands. They can leave miniature fecal specs anywhere and everywhere. Tucker�s advice is for everyone to be a Canine Good Citizen by always picking up your dogs poop.

09/18/2007

Tucker's Rest Tucker is loathe to commit to a certain schedule each day, especially if work is required. Oh don't get me wrong, Tucker loves his work, but it must be done on his own terms, and at a time that is convenient for him. He is always ready to go anywhere at a moments notice, even though he might not know where or why he is going. He enjoys the trip to and from any destination. He is always pleased to travel somewhere, and is equally happy to return home. Along the way there are no complaints, nor are there any special requests. There is only the quest to take in everything along the route. Upon returing to the den, Tucker seeks out his favorite pillow to rest his not so weary head. Rest is an important part of his completely unstructured schedule. Until the next walk...here's looking at ya!

09/15/2007

Tucker Details One major condo association project that Tucker and I have undertaken over the past couple of weeks is to prune the many shrubs we have growing along and around our enclosed wrought iron fenced yard. The shrubs have been long overdue for a pruning. So for the past couple of weekends, Tucker has accompanied me on this assignment. In essence, He stands guard while I do the pruning. He does not let anyone or any pet approach me without first challenging their presence and purpose. Tucker seems to take this responsibility much like a policeman directing traffic or on detail. Like the policeman, Tucker stands in a highly visible location in his jet black security outfit. He barks commands and points his paws in "Stop & Go" motions. Tucker is really good at this kind of work. Literally no one bothers me during my pruning sessions. Everyone seems to know that Tucker is there to see that I am not disturbed. Above all, Tucker understands that the work of the condo association contributes directly to the safety and beauty of the property which, over the long-term, benefits all association members, including it's founding canine member - Tucker. You go boy!

09/14/2007

Tucker's Update on Whiskey You may remember that on May 19, 2007 Tucker help an Arlington family adopt a 12-year old Scottie named Whiskey. Ken and Nancy Handshaw, the Rescue Coordinators for the Scottish Terrier Club of New England, were instrumental in rescuing Whiskey. Whiskey and Ken Handshaw on Adoption Day at the Scottie Connection Store I recently spoke with the person Whiskey is caring for. She said that his name has been changes to "Whiskers." He gets along splendidly with all three canine family members; he is very healthy and playful, and has become a hit with Tucker's groomer at the Clip Joint. Whisker's is a proud member of the Arlington canine community, and a great credit to the Scottish terrier breed. He, of course, is on Tucker's invitation list for the soon coming Yappie Halloween Party at the store. Scotties to the rescue!

09/11/2007

Tucker Is Seeking Help With the holiday shopping season approaching, Tucker thinks now is the time to hire a part-time employee for the store. Of course, Tucker will conduct all interviews and, ultimately make the hiring decision. The person who is selected will be very important to our business. Tucker wants this person to be both a pet and people lover. He also realizes that to experience continued success, we must offer the highest level of customer service possible. Tucker's selection criteria for this new position are quite specific. He is seeking an exceptional person with the following characteristics: 1.) Excellent attendance and dependability. 2.) Integrity and honesty. 3.) Motivated and dedicated. 4.) Strong work ethic. 5.) Positive and polite. 6.) Exceptional communication skills. To find this exceptional person, here are some of the questions that Tucker intends to use during the interview: 1.) Why do you want to work here? 2.) Why do you feel you would be a good at sales? 3.) What would be your initial customer greeting? 4.) How would you handle an irate customer? 5.) How would you handle an unruly pet? Tucker does not want to disclose all of his possible interview questions in advance, but it would be fair to say that many of the questions will be about canines. After all, the pets are our real customers. They merely bring the humans along for the walk. Tucker truly believes that his store is a unique, fun place to visit. He is seeking someone capable of enhancing its uniqueness and funness. If you are interested in this position, please stop by the store to discuss this opportunity with Tucker. You can also call Tucker at tghe store 781.646.0021. He is an equal opportunity employer with a distinct bias toward dog people. AAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

09/08/2007

Tucker's Do Not Eat List Tucker wants to state the obvious..."The genetic make-up of canines and humans is different." Tucker makes this statement because he hears many customers come into the store and talk about the human food they fdeed their dog. Tucker believes you cannot be too careful when it comes to feeding dogs, especially if you are feeding them people food, because many foods and ingredients that are safe for people can be deadly to animals. If you ever have a question on what or what not to feed your dog, Tucker recommends that you visit the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. Here are the top ten foods and ingredients that should never be given to dogs: 1) chocolate, coffee, caffeine 2) alcohol 3) avocado 4) macadamia nuts 5) grapes and raisins 6) yeast dough 7) raw or undercooked meat, eggs and bones 8) xylitol 9) onions, garlic and chives 10) milk Tucker would add one other human food item to the list - Corn Cobs. According to a study by the University of Minnesota, "Dogs cannot digest corn cobs and they will often need to be surgically removed from their stomach." During the summer months especially, you will need to be careful when walking your dog, particularly on trash day. Do not let your dog snatch a corn cob from a garbage heap. It could be very dangerous to his health. As is always the case, you can count on Tucker's advice when it comes to food. He loves his food, but he especially cherishes his health! Good boy Tucker.

09/07/2007

Tucker's Secret Many Scottie lovers know that Margaret Suckley gave Franklin Roosevelt his Scottish terrier, Fala. "Daisy" as she was affectionately called was 10 years younger than F.D.R. and was distantly related to him (they were sixth cousins). Daisy taught Fala how to behave and to do tricks. F.D.R. took to Fala instantly. They were constant companions until the presidents death. Just as Daisy seemed to do, Fala went everywhere with Roosevelt. In August 1941, Fala was at the Atlantic Charter Conference in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland with the President and Prime Minister Winston Churchill of England. Well, Tucker has uncovered an added dimension to Daisy's relationship with Roosevelt. It appears to have included more than daily walks for Fala. In an article in Today's New York Times, At the Home of F.D.R.'s Secret Friend Tucker has discovered that the relationship was both intimate and romantic. "After Roosevelt died, his daughter, Anna, and a friend came upon a cache of Daisy's letters, hidden in the box from his stamp collection that Roosevelt took everywhere with him." Fala would have become jealous if he had sensed the depth of their relationship. After all, Fala thought he owned both F.D.R. and Daisy. Once again Tucker has uncovered a fact that can only intrigue Scottie fans in the united States. Closest Companion

09/06/2007

Tucker's Movie Choices Tucker loves Animal Planet. He watches it daily. However, he has his own list of Favorite dog movies. These movies are great for young children to watch with their "fur child." Tucker also believes that adults will enjoy them as well. He is a list of Tucker's favorites: Old Yeller was released by Walt Disney Studios in 1957. 101 Dalmations is another Disney classic based on a children's story by Dodie Smith. Lassie Come Home was first released MGM Studios in 1943. Lady and the Tramp by Disney Studios in 1955 features wonderful music written and performed by Peggy Lee. Best in Show is Tucker's all-time favorite. This movie released in 2000 by Warner Bros. is hilarious, especially if you love the absurdity of dog shows. Tucker truly enjoys a good movie. Of course he dozes off in between the barks, but overall he is an avid movie viewer. Sit back and enjoy Tucker's favorites. They are classics, and among the best ever. After all, what do you expect from your favorite Scottish terrier movie critic!

09/05/2007

Tucker Influence Sue Murphy once said.."Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think this is how dogs spend their lives." Tucker has his routine in the morning. He wakes me up to feed him, then he goes for his walk. When he comes back into the house, Pat has a bowl of doggie coffee (half & half cream) ready to be inhaled. When Tucker finishes his coffee, he joins me in the living room because he knows I have an organic carrot for him. Thereafter, depending on what is going on, he follows me from room to room in the hope that there will be a food or treat surprise for him. Sue Murphy hit the nail on the head, Tucker generally does not know why nor does he know what to expect when he enters any room, but that does not prevent him from announcing his presence anyway. Mark Twain once said..."The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven, not man's." I would tend to agree with Mark Twain. Being in the company of dogs, is far more rewarding and relaxing that hanging out with a group of men. Tucker is a beautiful and stately gentleman. He possesses this beauty without vanity for he is a Scottish terrier. He walks around without insecurity, but with purpose. There is not an evil bone or thought in his little body, but do not misplace civility for courage, for he will defend his territory to the death. If there is such a place as heaven, there shall be no justice in the universe, unless all dogs arrive there before the first man. Tucker is surely a heavenly creature. He has done nothing not to deserve the penthouse suite. At the end of every day and at the beginning of another, I see Tucker's adoring face staring at me, and because of him, I consider myself the luckiest person on earth. Thanks Tucker!

09/04/2007

Tucker's Labor Day As you can see, Tucker had a restful and very enjoyable Labor Day weekend. He has worked very hard in 2007, so he deserved the break that the holiday provided. Earlier today, Tucker helped Pat process and package the Internet orders from yesterday. He also accompanied me to the Post Office where we dropped the packages off for shipment. We then went to open the store. As is always the case, Tucker is the official greeter at the store. He greets everyone with his trademark AAAAAAAAARRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOO! Immediately following the greeting, Tucker does an instant DNA test to see if the customer passes muster. Tucker follows the customers throughout their visit, helping them where possible, and always nudging them toward the bakery case where all of the delicious goodies are displayed. He knows that whenever I open the bakery case, he can occasionally grab a cookie from one of the many baskets filled with treats. This approach does not always work, but failure is not part of Tucker's genetic make-up. So, he defines success one crumb at a time. If he succeeds in snarling a cookie, he thinks he has hit the "jackpot." However, if he only ends-up with a couple of crumbs, he is not unhappy with the results.

09/01/2007

Key Issues on Tucker's Mind The one thing about Tucker is that he is always thinking. He very often stares up to the heavens. He seems to always seek advice from higher authorities. As Tucker awaits the Labor Day weekend festivities, he had agreed to share six major issues that will and are shaping the 2008 presidential primaries. Iraq Most Americans' favor a withdrawal from Iraq. Tucker does not believe that Iraqi citizens should be completely abandoned, and thrown to the "terrorist dogs." Instead, Tucker favors an orderly transition of power from military to civilian control. The human terrorist dogs must not be allowed to win, and life for Iraqi canines must be made better. Terrorism and national Security Many Americans fear another terrorist attack. However, Tucker does not believe that they connect the domestic "war on terror" with the war in Iraq. The Economy The volatility of the stock market combined with a crisis in the housing market has jolted many Americans recently. Tucker is especially concerned about the state of the economy. After all, the number of treats and the quality of food he receives are tied directly to the state of the economy. Energy Gasoline costs more this year than last. This is a trend that is unsustainable. Tucker's advice in this area is simple..."Think smaller, lighter and more efficient." Tucker measures this issue in dog highway miles. In his mind, the more the merrier, but this year, there have been fewer dog highway miles, and Tucker is not in the least pleased about that. Illegal Immigration America is the "land of the free and the home of the brave." Well, while the brave are away fighting terrorists in Iraq, millions of illegals have been feasting on free healthcare, free education, etc. This free stuff is infringing on Tucker's free ride. Remember, Tucker is in no way a burden to society. However, the Illegals are a burden, and a growing one. Healthcare No wonder more Americans are without healthcare, they cannot afford it because so many others are using it for free. Tucker thinks something must be done here. He favors a single-payer system over the current mess. American domestic and foreign policy can use some enlightenment. Tucker senses that we are drifting as a nation. He says "We are moving without a rudder." If there is one key element missing in our society, Tucker would say..."It is the absence of accountability."

08/31/2007

Tucker's Views in Painkillers for Dogs Pain relievers are big business for both humans and dogs. They can improve the quality of life, but can also produce tragic and heart wrenching results. Just as in humans, Painkillers Can Produce Serious Side Effects in Dogs. Pfizer pioneered the market for dog painkillers when it introduced Rimadyl in 1997. Over the past 10 years, over 15 million dogs have taken this medication. The dog pain medication market has grown to over $130 million. Here is what disturbs Tucker, over 3,200 dogs have died after taking this medication. Almost 19,000 have had adverse reactions. Do you think that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) consider this drug safe? If you guessed Yes, you would be correct. This is the same FDA that was "turtle slow" to respond and act to the recent and widespread dog food mess. Instead of protecting human and canine consumers, the FDA seems to take the side of big business - The Pharmaceutical Companies. According to a recent FDA Adverse Drug Experience (ADE) summary, "over 85% of the ADE's involved dogs greater than 6 years of age." In other words, the FDA is blaming the problem on older dogs. Tucker is profoundly outraged with the FDA's stance on this matter. Here is Tucker's advice on canine pain medication: 1.) There are no safe drugs. 2.) There are no safe veterinarians, especially those who are eager to medicate. 3.) Do not believe anything reported by the FDA. They are always late to disclose problems with dog food and medications. 4.) If your veterinarian is prescribing pain medication, get a second opinion from a holistic practitioner. 5.) Never, Tucker means NEVER, give your dog medication that is new to the market. All you would be doing is allowing the pharmaceutical company to experiment with your dogs life. 6.) Do not believe anything promoted and marketed by any pharmaceutical company. If the FDA claims..."Today, a new generation of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is bringing relief to millions of dogs with joint problems or with pain after surgery." Be wary. There are seven NSAID's approved by the FDA - Etogesic, Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam, Zubrin, Previcox, and Novox. As you might suspect, they all are prone to adverse reations in canines. Tucker says..."Keep your canine owner healthy with plenty of good nutrition and exercise." Stay away from chemicals. They are neither good for you or your canine owner. Once again, Tucker is a shining example of enlightenment.

08/30/2007

Tucker and Trouble First of all, Tucker is no trouble what-so-ever. He is a perfect gentleman and companion. He follows me everywhere, and is my constant guardian. There is no doubt in my mind that he would do anything for me. So again, trouble he is not. However, a dog named Trouble is causing a lot of trouble. Helmsley's Dog Get $12 Million in Will. Apparently Trouble has a habit of biting. She has been know to bite security guards, bodyguards, customers, etc. It is no small wonder that the New York City Animal Control authorities did not come to take Trouble to the Jail House. I wonder what Tucker would do with $12 million. I have the feeling that he would donate it all to the Scottie rescue Program. After all, he does not need the money. He is set for life. He cares for other Scotties, and goes through life without making trouble for anyone. What a great dog he is. He is the best of the best!

08/29/2007

Tucker's Advice on Heartworm Disease

Dog heartworm is a disease common in canines throughout the United States. It is caused by a roundworm that lives primarily in the heart and large vessels of the lungs. The worms prohibit proper valve closure as blood is pumped from one chamber to the next, seriously impairing the operation of the heart. The results are loss of body weight, dropsy, chronic cough, shortness of breath, muscular weakness, chronic heart failure, and eventual death. Tucker says..."This is serious stuff that requires attention." Tucker says you should take your Scottie for an annual blood test to check for the disease. Detection and prevention is a lot less expensive than treating the disease once contracted. Although drugs have been developed that will prevent your dog from contracting heartworm, they pose a risk to your dog in the form of an adverse reaction or even the possibility of death. These drugs prevent the worms from maturing to the adult stage. Therefore, a dog that is on medication can be repeatedly infected during the mosquito season and remain free of heartworm. American Heartworm Society More on Heartworm Disease Heartworm Medication Linked to Sickness and Death

08/28/2007

Tucker's Thoughts Here are a few of Tucker's thoughts for today. 1.) "You will be remembered for the rules you broke, not the ones you didn't." 2.) "Scotties never quit." 3.) "Never retreat from a challenge. Begin the advance in any direction, but advance one must." 4.) "No Scottie is entitled to freedom unless he is vigilant in its preservation." 5.) "A Scottie free to choose will always choose food." 6.) "All great Scottie days begin at the breakfast bowl." 7.) "How can a Scottie not be an actor? We are born stars" 8.) "Life is one grand, succulent meal, so begin the feast." 9.) "Scotties do not make wars, people do." 10.) "Trust, but be wary." 11.) "Fighting settles nothing." Tucker seems to have had a rather thoughtful day thus far. I hope he has provoked you to thought and thoughtfulness.

08/25/2007

Tucker Reads Duncan

If you are owned by a Scottish terrier, you will cherish the daily adventures of Raising Duncan.Tucker is a serious reader of history and philosophy, but he avidly follows Duncan on his daily adventures. A little black Scottie dog who was rescued from an experimental research lab, Duncan is the child Big Daddy and Adelle never had. He is pampered and indulged, an innocent who loves his "parents" as much as they love him. Everything is new to Duncan and he asks lots of questions. A little gentleman, he can be witty, wise and touching in his daily observations. And nothing escapes his watchful eye. Like Tucker, Duncan marvels at all of what the world offers, and asks endless questions. They both have an insatiable intellectual appetite. For your enjoyment, here are a few of Duncan's funny moments. Cuddle up with your Scottie and laugh and bark together. Good Boy Duncan. Hunt and Peck. Cuteness! Sock Monkey? Bark! Now you can see why Tucker enjoys Duncan. He is good for at least one belly gusher each day.