New Year's Eve Run

It's been a whole week since I've posted, and I don't have a good excuse - I'll claim Christmas hectic time.

Today I had a great run at the trail with Holly and Ann.  I felt good, and maybe this is because we ran later (8:40 a.m.), and I  had already had my coffee and my full breakfast 2 hours earlier.

I ran with Holly the whole way (I think she slowed down for me a little), and it was the fastest I had run that route for quite a while.  I even had 2 negative splits!  Felt great afterwards, too.

Well, what has Mocha been up to?  She had a good Christmas.  Several friends and relatives gave her presents, and she now has them all arranged on her kitchen bed.  She still likes her old toy, Chicken, but will also chew on a new toy for variety.

Mocha and I have been taking lots of walks on the trail.  Today we had a good one with lots of sniffing and going up and down hills.  We are trying to go longer so that Mocha gets more exposure and more excercise.

Happy 2016!  I will keep you up to date with Mocha and running news.

Christmas Eve Run

Today I had my best run in a long time!  I normally run first thing in the morning, but since it was raining when I would have gone, I waited to see if it would stop raining later.

After doing some neighbor visiting and home vacuuming, the sun was starting to peek out.  The temperature was 65 degrees at least!  So I got dressed in my December running gear - capris and a short sleeved shirt.   Is this really December?

I ran a slightly different route than the one I do most weekdays - it turned out to be 3.02 miles, and my pace was faster than it has been in a long time!  Why, I don't know.  Was it the later time?  The caffeine I had time to ingest before running?  I would think the warmer weather would not help with speed.  Anyway, I'm happy with my time and with the fact that I didn't get rained on.

Since I had some coffee left, and I was hot and sweaty when I got home, I had an iced coffee - first one since summer.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Play Date with Cooper

Mocha had her first play date on Sunday!  As you may know, she has had a reputation (rightly deserved) of not being good with other dogs.  Cooper is a neighbor dog with whom Mocha has gotten pretty well acquainted.  They've taken walks together, and they sit together and wait while their parents talk. 

Dave thought that Mocha was ready to try to interact with Cooper off-leash.  Cooper's parents were always willing to try this with Mocha.  Their yard is fenced, so a date was made to play this past Sunday.

I didn't go, because I was nervous about it, and felt my nervous energy might change Mocha's behavior in a bad way.
Here is what Dave told me about the play date:

They started out by standing in the driveway out front for a couple minutes.  Then they went into the yard.  Mocha sniffed around some, and then Dave let her off the leash.  Cooper's dad brought out 2 squeaky tennis balls, and threw them for the dogs.  Mocha would run to get one and bring it back to Dave.  Cooper would just run past the ball, very fast.  A couple times when he was running fast past Mocha, she growled.  Dave corrected her right away, and she stopped immediately.

This running and chasing balls continued for a while.  The dogs played separately but together.   All in all, I think this was a success!  Mocha may have more friends in the future.

Mocha and the Christmas Tree

We got our Christmas tree on Monday evening in the rain!  The Boy Scouts had gotten 25 newly cut trees, after selling out all 300 of the first batch.  Luckily, we had procrastinated about getting a tree, so with insider information from a Scout mom, we learned of the fresh trees, and went and got one.

Tuesday, I brought it into the house and decorated it.  Mocha wandered in to see what I was doing, and she didn't seem too interested in the tree.  She hung out with me while I did some more tree decorating.  After I was all done, I put the Christmas tree skirt around the tree. 

Well yesterday, when I got home, here is what I saw:

Mocha had pulled the skirt from around the tree.  No ornaments had been disturbed, and the curtains weren't pulled aside as if she had been looking out the window.  So why did she pull the skirt away?  It is a mystery.  We shall see if it happens again.

Excitement at the Trail

Mocha and I went to the trail today for her mid-day walk.  We saw a couple in Harley jackets looking towards the distance, and I thought they were just admiring the view and enjoying the pretty day.  However, when Mocha and I started walking around the pond, we noticed a loose dog.  It was by itself, and running slowly around the pond.  I called back to the couple, and asked if they knew if that dog was by itself.  They said it looked lost.  The woman was walking towards where the dog was running to, and I approached the man and offered him some dog treats to help with catching the dog.

Meanwhile, another man with an old dog were heading towards us.  He said, "Oh, that's  Myrtle.   Myrtle is with that truck." Myrtle, I now saw, looked like a Basset hound.  She was near a silver truck, but no owner was in sight.  Myrtle started to approach Mocha.  We just stood there to see if Myrtle would get close enough for the woman in the Harley jacket to catch her, but Myrtle stopped short of Mocha (good choice, probably).

At that point, I thought that the situation was under control - Myrtle had three people helping her.  Mocha and I continued our short walk, and soon left to come home.

And today I remembered to put the Christmas collar on Mocha!  She is now dressed for the season:



 Ann and I had a good foggy run today.  We left later than usual, and thought we would have some light to run in, but since it was so foggy, it didn't seem any different than usual.  I felt pretty good, no walk breaks!

Trail Walks

Mocha and I go to the trail for a walk most days.  She likes the car ride to get there as much as the walk! 

Yesterday, there were several other dogs there that we encountered.  Mocha did very well - she was interested, and kept turning around to look at them, but she never got her hackles up, and she didn't seem stressed.  I was happy with her behavior!

On days like today, when it's cold in the morning, after our walk, Mocha likes to eat breakfast and then get back in bed.  I think if the sun didn't come out, she would be tempted to stay in bed all day.  But sunny days motivate her to get up.  I think today will be nice again.

On the running front...  Sunday's run at the trail was kind of hard - I took one walk break.  But I think it was more due to mental fatigue than physical.  Today the run was slow, but good.  I didn't walk at all. 

I don't think I am doing any races this month.  Weekends seem to get so busy this time of year.  I hope to keep doing at least 6 races a year, just to try to stay competitive in my age group.

Back to Back Runs

For the first time in a while, I ran two days in a row.  Wednesday was supposed to be a running day, but it was yucky all day - drizzly and foggy - so I decided to skip it and run on  Thursday.  I did that, and then I wanted to be back on track to run with Ann on the weekend, so I ran today also.  And I did fine!  I didn't experience that low energy feeling where each step is a struggle.  I'm glad I was able to run two days in a row and feel fine.

Mocha is officially trying to lose weight now.  She has hardly had any treats in the past two days, and yesterday she didn't want to eat breakfast, so she ended up getting about 1/2 cup less food than usual.  The vet wants to weigh her in about a month to see if she's losing.  I think she will be able to lose the weight that she's gained.  We've been going for 3 walks a day most days.

Mocha noticed some reindeer decorations that a neighbor has.  They are almost life-size, and Mocha stares at them, waiting to see if they will move.  She is suspicious that they are big dogs maybe?  But she moves along after a while.  Pretty soon she'll totally ignore them, I'm sure.

Ruh-Roh - Mocha Gained Weight

I took Mocha with me today when I went to pick up something at the vet - I wanted to get her weighed.  Dave had mentioned recently that she looks like she has gained weight, and I agreed.  I wanted to find out how much weight she had put on.

Well, the scale showed that Mocha weighs 60.4 pounds!  That is about 8 pounds more than last time.  She needs to lose a bit.  The vet's office is going to work up a plan for her, based on the brand of food she eats (Blue Buffalo Basic).  I think I could help her lose weight without that, but since they offered...

I have to mention that she was a model dog at the vet.  When we got there, a little dog was at the counter checking out (being held by its mom).  Mocha did not react one bit.  When the receptionist took her back to get weighed, she went right with her, stubber waggin'.  They love her there - said she sat right on the scale until they told her she was done.

Before the stop at the vet, we took a wet walk at the trail.  First time in a long time that we didn't see any other dogs there.  When we left home, it was just a light misty drizzle, but it started raining hard on our way to the trail.  We both got wet!  Maybe the water on her fur was the extra 0.4 pounds.

Turkey Trot

On Thanksgiving, I did the local Turkey Trot 5K race.  It was very crowded, and I started out way in the back, near some dogs and strollers.  It was a beautiful day for a run, and the course is mostly through town but ends on the trail.  The trail section goes down a steep spur to get onto the main trail.  That was the most dangerous part of the race - the spur was leaf-covered, so you couldn't see what roots or rocks may have been underfoot.

But I persevered, and ended up coming in 2nd in my age group.   I had no idea I would have placed  though, so I ended up leaving before the awards.  Found out afterwards by looking at the results on-line.   My friend Ann did the race with me, and she came in before I did.  Afterwards, we came back to my house for some breakfast and coffee.

Mocha J. got lots of petting that morning.  Ann likes to sit on the floor with her and stroke her.  Mocha loves that! 

Today's run on the trail was kind of hard.  I took one walk break up a steep hill near the end.  It was good running weather, and ended up being warmer than I thought it would be.  I could have worn shorts!

Cold Run

Well, it has finally gotten cold here.  Today it was 34 degrees for my run.  My pace is now usually over a 10 minute mile when I run.  My goal for the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving is to do the 5K in under 30 minutes.   I'm looking forward to running with a crowd!

I realized yesterday when I was foam rolling, that I have some very sore and tight areas.  Maybe if I work on loosening and stretching them, my speed will improve a little.  I will give it a try!

Mocha was still in bed when I got home from running.  She was so cozy and warm in her bed - I guess sleep beats  needing to pee and eat for her.  But she did get up eventually, and we took our walk.  Saw Dexter, and Mocha was very good.  She didn't focus on him much, and her attention came right back to me when I asked her to "look".

Dog Park!

On Sunday, Dave took Mocha to the dog park!  Not for her to go in, but to watch, and see dogs playing.  We hoped this would help her understand that dogs can be nice to each other, and can play and have fun together!

Dave and Mocha were there quite a while.  He said they sat near the entrance, watching dogs play.  Mocha even got to meet a few dogs through the fence, nose to nose.  Dave was very happy with Mocha's behavior.  She only started to growl a couple of times, and he was able to give her a verbal correction right away, and get her attention back on him.

In the neighborhood, she saw Cooper recently, and we took a walk with him and his dad.  She also saw Maddie recently.  These are two dogs that she is mostly good with, since she has had quite a bit of exposure to them.

On the running front - yesterday I did an early morning run with Ann.   Felt pretty good, and did not have to take a walk break.   The weather was good for a run - 40 degrees and not windy.  Later in the day the temp climbed to 70!

Weekend

A beautiful, though slightly windy, day.  Went to the trail with Ann.  Had a very difficult run.  I ran out of energy, and took 3 walk breaks after the turnaround.  The 3rd walk break was pretty long.   When Ann was finished, she ran back to meet me, and I ran to the end.  My goal now is to do lower body weights today, and continue to do lower body weights after every other run.  I hope that will give me more stamina, due to strengthening my legs.

Mocha had a busy week.  A couple days ago, we saw Cooper on our walk.  We stopped to chat, and Mocha was very good.  Then on the way back, we saw him again.  He gave her a play bow (giving her another chance to be friends).  Mocha doesn't "get" playing with dogs, though, and she growled and started toward him after the play bow.  I am practicing with her at home to get her used to what a play bow looks like.  Will that translate to when dogs do it?  We will see.

Most days this week, we also went to the trail for a mid-day or afternoon short walk.  She likes the car ride to get there as much as the destination!

Walk on the Trail

I ran yesterday, after having given myself 2 days off since the last run.  After the race in Ocean City, I was not running well on Monday and Wednesday - felt really tired and slow.  So instead of running again on Friday, I waited until yesterday to run again. 

I went to the trail with Ann, and had a pretty good run.  I did take one walk break, but in general, I felt better than I had on my previous 2 runs.

Today, I went to the trail with Ann & Megan, and I walked while they ran.  It is a beautiful day, and I enjoyed the walk.  My chorus music was going through my head the whole time.   I'm going to skip running tomorrow, and get back on track with Ann's schedule for Tuesday.

"Life is a shipwreck, but we must not forget to sing in the lifeboats." -Voltaire

Mocha J. did not want to eat her breakfast today!  I don't know why... maybe because there's some tasty cat food on the porch waiting for the stray cat to find it.

She seems to feel okay otherwise - hope she will eat soon.

Cat Trackin'

Exciting day yesterday - there was a stray cat around.  I saw it on our deck, and tried to get it to come to me so I could see if it had tags.  No luck there - it ran away before I could get anywhere near it.  When Dave went to the animal shelter yesterday, he was going to bring home a cat trap, but they had been loaned out already.

Anyway, next time Mocha went out, you could tell she smelled the cat.  She led me all around the house, several times, paying close attention to the space under the deck and around the shed.  She is definitely a good tracking dog - but maybe a little scary for cats!

The second time we went out, I think I saw the cat running towards the house next door.  Mocha didn't see it, but still obviously could smell everywhere it had been.  She led me all around again with her nose to the ground.

On Dave's birthday, she helped him open a card from her...

Hope the cat found its home!

Race Weekend

This weekend was the annual Seaside race in Ocean City.  It was Mocha's first race experience.  We went to Ocean City on Thursday, and Mocha came with us.  We rented a house that was dog-friendly.  As we experienced in her previous trip, Mocha is a good traveler.  She likes rest stops with food:

She got to see the ocean again:

And the race went well!  I won first place in my (new) age group.   My pace was slightly faster than my last neighborhood run.

After the race, we had breakfast at Dough Roller, and then headed home.

Rainy Day - last Wednesday

We haven't had much rain lately, but today - lots of rain!  I managed to get my run in between periods of rain.  It was in the 60s and very humid.  I did a different run today - and ran faster than I have in quite a while.  I took 2 days off since my last run, since I was feeling tired.  So far, I think it helped.  I'm going to do that one more time before my next race.

Mocha and I had a rainy walk.  She doesn't seem to mind the rain too much.  She likes getting dried when we get home, but since her fur is so dense, it takes a while for her to be completely dry.  I used a towel and got off as much water as I could, and then she licked herself like a cat (maybe that helps her dry, or she just likes to drink from her fur!).

Since our morning walk, the girl has stayed in bed like a sensible dog.  No use being up and about on a day like this - bed is so cozy on a cloudy, rainy day.

Weekend

The weekend is over, and it was a busy one.  On Sunday I went for a run at the trail with Ann.  I felt kind of logy when I got up, but thought I might feel better once I got going.  Not the case - I had a really slow run, and at least 2 walk breaks.  After I got home, I felt exhausted.  My legs were achy, and I tried to take a little nap.  That didn't help, but eventually my legs felt somewhat better.

We were having people over for dinner, so I had no choice but to keep going.  Luckily, I did get to sleep later than usual this morning.  I've decided to change my running schedule this week by giving myself 2 days off between runs instead of one.

Mocha had a busy weekend because we had visitors both Friday and Sunday nights.  She stayed and supervised the dinner and card game on Friday.  I moved her bed (one of them!) into the living room so she could be with us, and she was there the whole time.  Didn't even go to bed until everyone left and I was done cleaning up.

On Sunday, she stayed in the dining room with us, in a corner between Dave and niece Megan.  I think she wanted to be close to Megan because she hadn't seen her for a while!

Tough Run

Another running day - and yet again, warmer than last time.  However, not such a good run for me.  My legs felt tired, and I was running slower than usual.  I did lower body weights on Wednesday after my run, so maybe that could account for it - but I was hoping lifting more frequently would make my legs stronger. 

Mocha did not sleep late - she was waiting for me in front of the fireplace when I got home, and we went for our walk shortly thereafter.  There is construction going on in the neighborhood - sidewalk repairs and replacements - so that gave  Mocha something to look at.  No dogs this morning for her to focus on.

Yesterday, Mocha slept very late!  She stayed in bed until 7:30, and I was worried that she didn't feel good.  But once she got up, she was fine and ready for a normal day of activities.  We went to the trail to walk for a bit.  I think she likes it there - new things to sniff and see.  There were no other dogs around.

Wednesday Run

It was a little warmer this morning - 45 degrees at run time.  I forgot to wear gloves, but luckily I had on a pullover with thumb holes, so I kept my hands mostly covered that way.

My legs felt a little tired today, but it was still a good run.  A little slower than Monday.  It is hard running in the dark!  Both Ann & I almost tripped at least once today.  At home before the run, I slid down the last 2 steps because I thought I was already at the bottom of the stairs!  Sleepy (not senior) moment.

Mocha is resting right now - we had our walk when it was still kind of dark out.  The sprinkler system for a house down the street came on right when we were near it, and it startled both of us. 

We have a white pumpkin on the porch that Mocha likes to lick when we come home.

Cold Monday Morning

It's the coldest day of the season!  33 degrees when I went running in the dark.  I wore my typical cold weather outfit, which includes warm mittens, a neck gaiter, hat, and silk undershirt under my shirt and jacket.  Tights too of course.

I had a good run - my legs didn't feel tired, and I think the cold weather enables me to run a little faster.  I didn't see any other runners out this morning, except Ann, and she was with me!

Mocha J. was waiting for me in the hall when I got back.  She had been in bed when I left, so I didn't really think she would be up yet, but she was.  So I exchanged my sweaty mittens for dry gloves, put on a warm jacket over my running clothes, and out we went. 

We didn't see any other dogs this morning, but there were some good sniffin's for Mocha.  She got back in bed while I was making coffee, and I haven't seen her since!

Coffee of the day:  Dunkin' Donuts Chocolate Glazed Donut.

Saturday

Family walk this morning.  Mocha seemed fine, but I did notice her favoring one front leg on the way home.  After the walk, I got ready to go running, and when I came back downstairs, Mocha was in the living room.  She got up and was acting very sore.  She went outside with me to get the paper, and said hi to Bonnie (neighbor).   When we came back in, she wanted to lie down.  I hope, like yesterday, that after she rests a little while, she will feel better.

The run was good.  Beautiful fall day.  The trail was pretty busy, with lots of teenagers (probably cross country team from local high school).  Also, a race was finishing up, and then there were the regulars.  I ran slightly faster than last week, and felt good!

Good Dark Run

Another 6:00 a.m. run in the dark.  I remembered to wear my light this time and it does make me feel more secure - I think drivers can see me sooner when I have the light on, versus just my reflective vest.  Ann and I met up, and we did our usual weekday route. 

The temp was around 48 degrees, stars were out, and it was perfect running weather.  I did a slightly faster pace than last time, which always makes me feel good.

Weekend

Mocha had a fun weekend!  On Saturday, a friend came over with her 2 kids, ages 5 and 7.  The 7 year old loved Mocha.  He spent most of the time with her, giving her belly rubs and petting her head.  Here is a picture of them together:

After they left, Mocha got to spend some alone time catching up on her sleep. 

On Sunday, she experienced a lot of dogs on her evening walk.  Dave had her, and he said she was very good.   He was able to distract her enough that she didn't focus on the other dogs.  One of them was Jack, a rowdy boy from the other side of the neighborhood:

When she got home from the walk, she had her supper and spent the rest of the evening lounging around.

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I had a very good run yesterday!  The weather was perfect, in the mid-40s and sunny.  I ran the trail, no walk breaks, and my legs only felt a little bit tired.  When I felt like I might have to walk on a couple hills, I distracted myself by thinking positive thoughts, and powered through.

After running, we (Dave & I, not Mocha) went to a friend's house for brunch.  She is dog-sitting a chihuahua, who is very friendly and took turns sitting on everyone's lap. 

Deer Friends

Lots of deer came to visit yesterday - Mocha was on the deck, and she wasn't really paying attention to them, but here is a picture of her while they were there - sniffing the air maybe?

The deer were certainly aware of her, though.  They stop eating and just stand and stare...

 I put a stinky concoction on the mums out front to try to keep the deer from eating them.  Success for the first night!  I'm sure I will have to reapply and make more every time it rains. 

No More Crate

Yesterday, I thought it might be a good idea to put away the crate that Mocha used for her bed in our bedroom.  We hadn't closed the door of the crate since we first got her, but she slept in there because that's where her bed was.  But now that it is colder at night, I thought it would be nice to have more access to her and be able to cover her up more easily (our other dog Ozzie loved to be covered).

So I took her bed out of the crate, and put the crate away.  I put 2 pillows against the walls.  It is a very cozy space, although no longer enclosed.  And she took to it right away!

This picture doesn't show it, but there is another blanket that I covered her with last night.  By morning, she wasn't under it, but I think she likes it.

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Running this morning was good.  It was 58 degrees, and stars and moon were still out.  Ann & I had a good run.  And later I'm going to meet a friend for a walk, so it will be a very active day.  Got to take advantage of this nice fall weather!

Good Running Weather

Today at running time (6:00 a.m.) it was 49 degrees and dark out.  Last time I ran, Saturday, my legs felt very tired.   Maybe that's because I didn't get much exercise on vacation.  But today, I felt better.  Back to normal even.  No walk breaks.  The run was quite pleasant because of the temperature and the company (hi Ann!).

Mocha and I took a walk when it was getting light out.  We saw Dexter down the street, and she kept turning around to look at him.  This is something she does with most dogs. 

Here's a really good thing - she was lying on the living room rug today when Sydney (little white dog) walked by with her dad.   Mocha always knows when dogs are out there, and she usually barks or growls.  Today, nothing.  Totally calm and cool.  I think she is feeling less threatened by other dogs!  Yay, Mocha!

Vacation

We took Mocha on vacation!  Went to Fenwick, longest car ride for her that we know of.  She was a great traveler!  Settled right down in her crate in the car, and watched the world go by.  We stopped about once an hour for her to have a break.

We took her to the beach one day, and she seemed to like the ocean (although not enough to run right up to it).  She got close to the waves, and one came up and washed over her front paws.  The sand was pulled back out, and she had to sit down unexpectedly!   That didn't faze her though - she just had a sandy butt for a while.

 

She also got to go to a park, and see ducks and a Great Blue Heron.

All in all, a good time was had by Mocha.  When we got home, though, she was happy - she wagged her little butt and settled down to take a nap.

Beautiful Fall Weather

For the second day of fall, it's another beautiful day!  Mocha & I now go for our walk when it's still a little dark out.  This morning we just missed seeing the new puppy of the neighborhood, Kentucky.  He is about 4 months old.  Mocha got to see him from across the street one evening during her walk with Dave, and she didn't get agitated at all.  I think she is used to puppies, and doesn't find them threatening.

Last evening while we were having some deck time, a deer friend came to visit.  Mocha is very interested in deer, and she will sit and observe them while they are feasting on our plants out back.   I will try to get some pictures of deer!  All my pictures are from last winter.

Running was great yesterday.  Another cool morning, just a little more humid than Monday, I think.  Saw a deer on the run too!  It was at the side of the road, and since it was still dark out, Ann & I didn't see it until we were very close.  It ran away when we got too close for comfort.

Mocha J's Last Day of Summer

Mocha seemed fine this morning - until we started on our walk.  Then after just a short distance, she started walking slowly, and I could tell she was in pain.  We went quite slowly, and after a little while, she seemed to feel better, but still not normal.

After we got home, she got right in her bed in the kitchen:

She didn't want to eat her breakfast yet.  I gave her a pain pill with some peanut butter and that made her feel better (was it the peanut butter or the pill?)   When I went upstairs she ate her breakfast!  and felt better the rest of the day.

It was cloudy and a little cool today for the last day of summer.  Mocha had a little bit of deck time, and got upset with a neighbor's dog who was barking.  Usually she ignores that dog.  

Anyway, the highlight of  Mocha's day was definitely the peanut butter!  Hope she feels okay tomorrow...

Good Run!

The cooler weather made for a good run today!  I felt energetic, even though I had done some yard work yesterday and I thought my legs might be tired from that.  But I felt good!  No walk breaks.  Long sleeves and shorts weather.  Love it.

Mocha felt better on the walk today - she didn't seem sore until we got home, and I noticed she walked up the steps slowly as if she was sore again.  I hope she can relax and take lots of naps today so she feels even better this evening.

Here is a cute new picture of her:

Cooper & Mocha

Today Mocha saw her "friend" Cooper on the family walk.  He is a nice boy, about 3 years old.  Mocha was mean to him once, and he has never forgotten it, so here is Cooper looking nervous with Mocha nearby:

Mocha is now calm around him, since she knows him, but I don't think he will trust her any time soon. 

By the time we were almost finished the walk, Mocha seemed to be sore again.  She had a pain pill when we got home, and is now lying on her kitchen bed.  I hope she feels better soon!

Sore Joints

Mocha started seeming a little sore yesterday (in her joints), and by this morning, she was even worse.  She had trouble going up the 2 steps from the garage into the house after her walk (short one), and she was obviously in pain.  I called the vet to see if I could give her aspirin - I forgot how much.  The vet said up to 2 baby aspirins 2 times a day.  But I was on my way to the trail to run, and I didn't give her anything right then.

When I got back from running, Ann came in with me, and Mocha was on her bed in the family room.  She wagged her little stubber tail vigorously, but didn't get up.  Ann & I went over to her and gave her lots of belly rubs and attention.  When she did get up, she seemed to feel a lot better!  I am so glad.  I will wait to give her any meds until she seems sore again.

She wanted to go out in the yard, and even had enough energy to pull me.  That's definitely a sign of a dog that's feeling better!













On the run today, it was a little more humid than it had been this past week, and I was noticeably slower (3 walk breaks).  But it was good to get out to the trail again instead of running in the neighborhood.

Trail Walk

Today, since it was so nice out, Mocha and I went to the trail for a walk.  This means a car ride.  She is good about getting into the car - I have a crate in the back for her - but she never really settles down during the drive.  She likes to stand up and sniff out the windows the whole time. 

Once we got to the trail, a little dog was just leaving, and we didn't see any other dogs while we were walking.  We saw a Great Blue Heron flying - a little girl was running, and I think she startled it, so it flew a little ways, and then it came back in the same direction in had come from.  Then it flew away again, and I saw it heading away from the marshy area.  I love to see them - I only wish I had taken my camera.

Mocha was ready to go home after a short walk.  It seems like she doesn't relax and enjoy herself.  I hope that can change over time.

Something Scary

Today we had a family walk - Dave came with us.  One of our neighbors down the street has inflatable football players that he sets up on his lawn - and now it's football season!   Mocha had never seen these before, and she hesitated when she saw them.  She walked by them very carefully, slightly crouching, checking to see if they were going to move.   This neighbor also has flamingos lining the lawn.  I think it was the football players that got to Mocha, though.

What a brave girl!  She got by the scary football players!  I gave her treats for being so brave.

Better Run

Yay -  today it was cooler (65 degrees) and less humid than it had been in a long while.  I felt much better on the run.  No walk breaks, and a faster pace.  Love it.  Now I feel sure that most of the time when I have a hard run and have to take walk breaks, it's because of the heat and humidity.

Mocha and I had another loose dog encounter today - it was the same JRT that was loose a few weeks ago.  Today it didn't try to approach us, but did bark at Mocha from across the street.  She got agitated and tried to pull toward him.  After a little while, he trotted around to the back of his house, and Mocha & I were able to continue our walk.

I wish people would keep their dogs home and not let them escape to harass others! 

Snake

Today I found a young black snake in the basement!  I got it into a paint bucket, took it outside, and released it.  Last fall I found a snake in the house 3 times.  I think it was the same snake that kept coming back.  I hope this one doesn't keep returning!

Mocha was upstairs, and didn't get to see the snake.  She has seen larger ones outside though.  She does smell them - our other dog Ozzie never seemed to smell reptiles.  Mocha has a very good sniffer!

Slow Motion Run

Today at 6:00 a.m. (my normal weekday running time), the air was loaded with moisture - it felt like a steam bath outside when I opened the door.  I started out slow, and got slower.   I felt like I was running in slow motion.  This is the time of year when I always welcome the cooler fall temps - I think tomorrow the heat wave is supposed to break. 

Mocha was a late riser this morning!  Usually when I come back from running, she is on one of her downstairs beds (yes, she has 2), and she has usually eaten her breakfast.  Today, though, there was a note on the counter from Dave that Mocha had stayed in bed!  I went upstairs to change my shirt, and she was awake, but not up yet.

We went for our walk - no excitement today.  I had seen Pookie (who gets agitated by Mocha) on my run, so I was pretty sure we wouldn't see her.  And no one else was out and about.  Mocha ate her breakfast when we got home and is now making little growly noises at the top of the steps.

Labor Day run

Today is Labor Day, so since my running partner was off, we went to the trail like we do on weekends.  It was pretty busy there today - lots of dogs, runners, and walkers.  My niece also joined us.  I felt pretty good, but had to take 2 walk breaks up hills.  I still had the same finishing time as I had last time with no walk breaks, so I probably started out too fast.

The weather was pretty nice - cool when we started out, and then it felt hotter when we were done (and all sweaty!).

The most interesting dog on the trail (to me) was a Rottweiler mix - looked like Mocha somewhat, but taller.  The reason I think it was a mix is because the body was not as stocky as a full Rottweiler would be.  I also saw a lab puppy - full of energy and so cute!

My walk with Mocha this morning went well - we saw Bailey, a golden retriever, on the other side of the street.  Mocha looked back a few times, but didn't get bothered at all.  She is definitely improving!

Breakthrough?

Very exciting morning walk!  There was a loose dog down the street.  First, he and Mocha just looked at each other, and then the dog came trotting up to us.  He approached Mocha's butt, and proceeded to sniff.  Mocha accepted that - she did not growl, raise her hackles, or act upset in any way!  Then the loose dog just went on his way.  This was new - I had never seen Mocha behave so calmly around another dog.  I hope this is the start of similar behavior with other dogs.

Mocha is helping Dave in the garage this morning.  She likes to help by lying in the sunshine.

Cat!

Mocha J saw a cat on the walk this morning!  It saw her too, and crouched by a storm drain to see what the doggy would do.  Mocha looked at it, but didn't get agitated or act like she wanted to chase it.  We kept walking, and the cat stayed by the storm drain, in case it would have to make a quick escape!

Trail run today - the trail is not in great shape - lots of erosion and bumpy places.  But the good news is that I ran the whole approximately 4 miles with no walk breaks.  It is still humid, but slightly cooler.  Saw lots of cute dogs out today, lots of Labradoodles, and some normal dogs too  :-)

Iced coffee when I got home!  Hooray for Labor Day weekend!

Hard Run and Easy Walk

This morning's run was very difficult - I took 4 walk breaks, and felt pretty tired.  It was very humid again, and 70 degrees.

When that was over, Mocha and I went out for our walk.   Someone had set off a car alarm, and many barking dogs were complaining about it.  Mocha was a little huffy-puffy, but calmed down after we got past the barking dog houses.  Then we saw the puffy-collared dog heading home.  Mocha is fine with that dog, because it is calm.  She gets much more worked up if a dog is barking at her, or acting up in any way. 

The other day in a post, I mentioned Mocha's "nemesis".  Let me tell you more about that.  Clark is a Labradoodle puppy, very cute and non-threatening.  For some reason, Mocha took an instant dislike to him.  She acts like he is the evil invader of her territory.  Poor Clark, just an innocent boy.

I have discovered that Mocha likes it when I sing.  She gets all happy and excited (in a good way).  So I will sing to her a lot!  

Three Dog Day for Mocha J.

Usually, we don't encounter any dogs on our morning walk, but today we saw 3!  That is a lot for Mocha, who is still a little worried when she sees other dogs. 

First we saw the dog who had been wearing the puffy neck collar.  Now it is no longer wearing it, but I don't know that dog's name, so that's how I identify it.  Mocha was calm when she saw that dog.  She just looked at it a couple times, and kept walking with me. 

Next, before we had even gotten very far from that dog, Max the Schnauzer was coming down the street.   Max and his mom crossed to the other side of the street before we had seen them.  Mocha looked at him a couple times, but didn't get agitated.

The third dog we saw was Pookie.  Same coloring as Mocha in a smaller package.  Pookie also gets agitated with other dogs, so that is not a good combination with Mocha.  Pookie started barking at her, and she got her fur up and pulled toward Pookie.  They kept walking, and I waited for Mocha to calm down before we kept going. 

Anyway, 2 out of 3 good reactions is not bad for Mocha J!

 

Humid morning run

What a humid run this morning!  Now that it is dark when I begin my run at 6:00 a.m., I wear a reflective vest.  Today was such a sweaty run that the vest was completely wet when I got home, even though I had a top on under it (of course).  I ran the whole way with no walk breaks, so that was good.  Ann (my main running partner) and I were kind of quiet today - sometimes it's hard to have a good conversation when you're concentrating on putting one foot in front of the other on hills!

Then home to Mocha, and a good walk.  Saw a dog from down the street who had a big bumper collar on recently (post-surgery maybe).   The dog no longer has that puffy collar on, so hope all is well.  Mocha is getting calmer about seeing other dogs, but right now she is making little growly noises at the top of the stairs - maybe she hears her nemesis  outside.

Best part about all this - I was very hungry when I got home from the run and then the walk, and I had my usual delicious breakfast of Cinnamon Kashi cereal with walnuts and a peach on it.  The peaches have been so good this summer!  And a good cup of coffee as well, that I'm still enjoying.

Busy Weekend

Mocha had a busy weekend!  Since she likes to be around  Dave and me whenever we're home, she was with us a lot.  She had a lot of deck time in the sun and in the shade.  She behaved well on backyard practices off the leash - where we basically let her go in the yard without the leash, and then ask her to "come".  She is very good about coming to us as soon as we call her.

Dave volunteers at the local animal shelter, and comes home with lots of different dog smells on him.  Mocha seems to find this no big deal, and I think maybe it helps her to realize that other dogs are not a threat, since he comes home happy and healthy after being at the shelter.

On another note, I went running with my niece and my friend Ann at the trail yesterday, and it was very humid.  I had to take 4 walk breaks.  I tend to judge my running by how many walk breaks I need, and when it is cooler I don't need as many.

Hoping for cooler whether soon - Mocha will like it too!

Excitement - Loose Dog

Yesterday, Mocha & I took a walk with my friend Holly.  On our way back home, I noticed that a neighbor's dog (let's call him Max) was loose outside.  There was also a runner coming down the street.  So 3 things for Max to focus on - the runner, Mocha, and being alone outside!  

First he barked at and chased the runner for a few steps.  The he started crossing the street to bark at Mocha from a closer position.  I was trying to get Mocha to keep walking, and to ignore Max.  She did pretty well.  Meanwhile, Max's mom came out and started calling him.  It took him a while for him to pay attention to her, but he finally did.

Holly gave  Mocha a treat after she had settled down and we had walked up to the next corner.  She will be a good dog mom one day!

Great Blue Heron at the trail

Today was less humid, so Mocha & I went to the trail for a short walk around the pond (car ride!).  We saw a Great Blue Heron;  maybe the same one I've seen before.

Mocha doesn't pay any attention to it, but I like seeing it.  One day I saw it fly in and land, but I wasn't quick enough to get a picture of that.

Mocha saw no dogs at the trail, but she had a nice time sniffing everything - must be some great smells out there!  We had to walk through a very muddy part, and my shoes retained the mud quite well.  Mocha, however, has self-cleaning paws, and she didn't have a speck of mud on her by the time we got to the car.

Java of the Day:  Major Dickason's Blend (Peet's).

Humid morning walk

What a nice humid morning for a walk with Mocha!  She was very calm today.  I happened to use the retractable leash, and she seemed to like it better.  Whenever she would get out in front of me a little, she would turn around and wait for me.

One dog sighting today -  Arnold, a bulldog from down the street.  Mocha wasn't too close to him, and didn't get agitated when she saw him.

On another subject - when I was coming back from taking care of the cats next door, I saw a deer in the yard, very close to my house.  It just looked at me - "what?" - and didn't move.  There was another deer a cross the street.  I walked right by the one in my yard, and when I got on the porch I said "Why don't you eat some crabgrass for a change?"  That scared it, and it ran away!

Java of the day: Peet's Coffee - Major Dickason's Blend

Meeting Neighborhood Friends

This morning, Mocha got to meet two friends - people, not dogs.  They were running, and stopped to meet Mocha.  She loves people, and got lots of attention from them.  They have 2 dogs who are "works in progress", but they had already gone for walks and were back at home. 

Mocha also saw her dog friend Maddie, and was appropriately nice to her (from across the street). 

Java of the day - Dunkin Donuts Chocolate Glazed Donut!

Introduction to Mocha

Mocha is a Rottweiler mix and my husband and I adopted her from a shelter in March of this year.  She is the sweetest dog with people, but has issues with other dogs.

Since we don’t know her history, it’s hard to say why, but she seems anxious whenever another dog is close by, and she manifests that by going on the offensive.  We’re trying to correct this behavior with positive reinforcement when she doesn’t focus on another dog.  Sometimes it’s hard to break her attention away though. 

I usually take her for a morning walk very early, and lots of times we don’t see other dogs.  Today we had a nice walk before breakfast.  She loves to sleep in the sunshine, so that’s what she is doing now.