Wiener Dog Derby

Since this event originated, I've wanted to check it out.  But, year after year, something has come up. At last, yesterday, I made it to the 6th annual Wiener Dog Derby.   It was chilly and raining, but the races went on as scheduled -- one heat after another with dachshunds dashing lickety split -- as fast as their cute little legs would take them -- to the finish line.  (Of course, occasionally, some of the little participants opted not to compete and either stopped or turned around and walked the other way.)  This shot was taken during the final race --- for the crown, bragging rights, and I presume, a few doggie treats.  Look at 'em go!  Ears flopping…paws mid-air..staring down the finish line.  So cute!

This is the grand champion -- Roxie.  I'm told she's 5 years old, the returning Sarasota Wiener Dog Derby champion, and apparently, a national champ as well. She's was proudly holding court after her victory.  Very sweet!  In case you're wondering, this is not an actual sport.  The Weiner Derby was one of many fun events going on at a pet friendly festival called the 'Celebration of Pets'.  So glad I finally made it!

Theme Day: Scene from a Coffee House

I really wanted to check out a new cafe in Ft. Myers for today's City Daily Photo theme:  'Scene at a Coffee House'.  Unfortunately, time did not permit.  But, as I dashed out of Starbucks yesterday with a latte in hand to fuel me for the drive back to Sarasota, I thought, 'Well, I can get a quick shot here for theme day…'  And, voila!  It's not exactly what I had in mind…but, I'm happy to be able to participate in Theme Day!

As these folks enjoyed a quiet respite outside Starbucks in downtown Ft. Myers reading their electronic devices, man's best friend in the foreground stole the show.  Her name is Pipi.  While she has an intense stare in this shot, I can assure you she's a sweetheart!  She was content at the outdoor cafe, greeting strangers politely as they passed by, while keeping a friendly eye on a neighboring cocker spaniel.  I'm told Pipi was rescued as a puppy four years ago after being abandoned alongside a road in Alabama.  She seems very good natured and gentle.  And, she must have good sea legs, too….because her owner mentioned they arrived in Ft. Myers via sailboat.  How about that?!  It's common to see dogs at outdoor coffee houses nowadays, and I always enjoy hearing their stories.  To see other interpretations of today's Theme Day -- Scene at a Coffee House -- from other City Daily Photo bloggers click here.

Lexie

I decided to take a quick drive across the Ringling Bridge to Bird Key Park last week after work. It was a gorgeous evening on Sarasota Bay, but this adorable goldendoodle (golden retriever-poodle mix) was only interested in the water. More specifically, something submerged. After staring at the bay with a concerned look for a moment or two, she plunged her head...

  ...and emerged sopping wet proudly clutching this prize: a moss covered rock. She had her human trained well.   He would toss the rock just far enough into the bay to make it fun yet challenging to fetch it. (That's the golden retriever in her shining through.)  They were visiting from Atlanta and really enjoying the area. But, the story doesn't end there.  Somehow, Lexie cut her rear leg while frollicking, perhaps on a cluster of barnacles.  Although she seemed oblivious to it, the open wound was bleeding enough to cause her humans concern.  They thought it would be a good idea to have a veterinarian check it out.   I suggested a terrific 24-hour clinic on the other side of town, but naturally, couldn't remember the name of it...or the exact road it's on.  I drove off hoping they would find a good clinic and that Lexie would be okay. Well, imagine my surprise when I received an email from her human, Ken, the next day informing me that (somehow) they found the clinic I recommended -- and Lexie ended up needing four stitches.  The vet, he said, was wonderful.  How nice and considerate to email me!  Lexie is now wearing a cone temporarily.  Poor girl.  Here's to a speedy recovery, Lexie,  and a healthy future full of chasing rocks, quite possibly in Sarasota.   

Louie

This happy four-legged little tank is Louie, an English bulldog.  Isn't he handsome?!  He was attracting a lot of attention when I spotted him at Bayfront Park in Sarasota.  He was so excited, especially around children, his entire back end wiggled with delight.  Makes me consider getting a dog again.  Since my Mulligan passed away, I've considered adopting, but there just hasn't been a love connection yet.  Occassionally, I check the new arrivals at the Humane Society and Animal Control, but the vast majority are pitbulls or a mix which I'm not interested in.  I'll keep my eyes and heart open for the right little fur friend to come along.  In the meantime, I'll enjoy meeting other people's pleasant pooches, like Louie.

Sookie

Sarasotans love their dogs.  So, it's quite common to see humans with their fur friends at outdoor venues here.  I spotted little Sookie at O'Leary's tiki bar on Sarasota Bay on New Year's Day.  She's a  2 1/2 year old morkie.  (That's a cross between a maltese and a yorkie, according to her human.)  They were enjoying the beautiful weather to start the new year, something which they probably would not have been able to do in Boston, where they just moved from. Perfect time to move with the beautiful weather being what it is here...versus...there.   I bet Sookie is happy with that decision.  Welcome!  By the way, O'Leary's was one of the first places in Sarasota to give man's best friend a warm welcome when the city officially approved outdoor doggie dining about five years ago. 

Theme Day: Bakeries

It's the first of the month again already and that means it's theme day in the City Daily Photo community. With the theme being bakeries, I thought I'd post something a smidge out of the box. Welcome to Sniglet's Dog Bakery!  More than a dozen doggie goodies are created right on the premises.  Delicious sounding things like apple treats, pumpkin cookies, peanut butter cups and chicken cookies. It's all baked fresh with ingredients edible for humans, according to the owner Jennifer, who opened the shop almost 2 years ago. So, what's a Sniglet?

This guy is! That's his name -- Sniglet. He's a 4-year-old maltepoo (a maltese and poodle type mix) and he's an absolute sweetie. He's a savvy sales representative quickly making friends with customers with his carefree uninhibited demeanor.  Perhaps most importantly, every baked item must meet his approval, as he is the bakery's CTO - Chief Tasting Officer.  Sniglet and his bakery are located on University Parkway and Tuttle. You can also purchase goodies  online: SnigletsDogBakery.com

Click here to view thumbnails for all theme day participants. Also, today is the last day to vote to decide the SDP 2nd anniversary photo.  Look to the right and vote!

Hari

As soon as I saw this guy sitting outside Whole Foods in downtown Sarasota I had to meet him.  Look at that face...those droopy jowls...blood shot eye and unusual combination of colors!   Adorable.   His name is Hari and he's a 15-month-old English setter with a very sweet demeanor  -- such a gentleman.  I've encountered a lot of Irish setters, but never an English setter.  I must say, he's representing his breed well.  He just moved here from St. Pete (with his mom, Rosemary) and I think he'll fit in quite nicely in this dog friendly town.  During my brief meet-and-greet, three other people came up to say hello.  Welcome!

Whatcha Doin'?

Seeing this happy, inquisitive face at the gas station made filling up a little less mundane. What a cute fuzzy mug. Looks like he's livin' the good life!

Beast in a Boat #5

This cute beast was so curious about what was in that net! I spotted her (she seemed like a girl) on a small fishing boat with three young men off Anna Maria. Not only was she inquisitive, she had a good set of sea legs. Despite the boat going around in circles near the pier as the guys tried to  catch bait fish, she didn't care. She just wanted to be the first one to sniff whatever was caught.

And, she was kind enough to smile for the camera. That's one happy beast in a boat!

Beau

Somehow, I ended up at EcoFest in downtown Sarasota this morning sans camera.  No DSLR...no point-n-shoot...not even a cell phone camera.  Sheesh!  So, this photo of Beau is brought to you courtesy of guest photographer, EGL, who captured the moment with her Droid.  Any guesses how much Beau weighs?   211 pounds!  He was flopped out, enjoying a leisurely morning under a chair at an outdoor cafe, where he watched passersby at EcoFest.  If you've never been to EcoFest, think green and sustainability.  I think Beau was trying to sustain cool thoughts in this increasingly warm weather.

Miss Congeniality

Isn't Lily perfect?!  She graciously accepted her title of 'Miss Congeniality' at the 14th annual Pug Parade this past weekend. Between that sweet smile and those oversized pink flower petals, she was a real charmer.  Lily was one of about 40 pugs who wiggled around St. Armands Circle to raise money for the local Humane Society.  Like any proper parade, the Pug Parade had a grand marshal.  I'll introduce you to Rodney tomorrow.  (I'll tell you now...he's not what you think!)  

King Toby

Toby was crowned 'Best in Show' at the Pug Parade over the weekend.  What a crowd pleaser!  He was so regal in his Radio Flyer wagon, sporting a faux fur lined crown and cape while lounging atop a plush pillow.  Would you believe just five months ago this adorable creature didn't have a home?!  He was adopted just before Thanksgiving, and I say he hit the royal jackpot.  Way to go, Toby!   Tomorrow:  Miss Congeniality!

Pug Parade

When I heard about the annual Pug Parade, I imagined their cute, wrinkled little fuzzy faces wiggling around St. Armands Circle and I knew I had to check it out.  And, the event did not disappoint!  This was the 14th annual Pug Parade to raise money for the Sarasota County Humane Society, and it was billed as 'St. Pug-trick's' Day' continued.  There were old pugs and young pugs; pugs wearing over-the-top sequined costumes and others who were au naturale.  About 40 contestants sashayed down the cat....er...dogwalk, impressing the judges and wowing the crowd as they competed for such prized titles as 'Miss Congeniality', 'Most Original Costume' and 'Best in Show'.  I'll reveal 'Best in Show' to you tomorrow.  (He made a fabulous royal impression.)  But, first, let me introduce you to Tug, a handsome 3-year-old Pug from south Sarasota County who donned his best Irish attire for the event and then proceeded to size up the competition.  

Beasts in Boats #2

I just love to see a dog on a boat sporting a life jacket.  This handsome german shepherd looked like he was having a great time at Phillippi Creek with his family as they headed out to the Gulf of Mexico.  This is the second post in my new series, "Beasts in Boats".  I'm looking forward to installment number three, if I must say so myself.   

Watery Wednesday: Beasts in Boats #1

This guy was on Sarasota Bay, puttering inland, with his best furry friend tagging along.  Not sure, but maybe it was a little Jack Russell.  Whatever it was, the hound sure looked like he was having a good time, sitting up high with the wind in his face, staring straight ahead with his favorite human at his side.  (Enlarge to see what I'm talking about.)  For a few weeks, I've been contemplating starting a series about pampered pooches in boats.  Then, over the weekend, I saw so many canines cruising Sarasota Bay, I've decided it's a done deal.  Consider this photo the first in an ongoing series entitled "Beasts in Boats".  (I feel better about the generic word 'beast'....you never know...I could encounter a confused cat, bird, pot bellied pig or other furry, friendly beast.)  Click here to see other Watery Wednesday photos from around the world. 

Hittin' the Town

Ever since Southeastern Guide Dogs set up shop on Main Street a few months ago, I see adorable pooches like this one going for walks around downtown all the time.  Make no mistake --- this isn't a joy walk.  It's work.  From what I can gather, they walk a four block path and along the way they stop and practice commands (and receive lots of positive reinforcement).  I'm sure this guy is going to make a great companion for someone.  Click here to see some of the other cute canines in the program.

Pretty in Pink

I met Taylor the Welsh Corgi recently in downtown Sarasota.  Not only do I love those adorable big bat-dog ears, but those expressive eyebrows, shiny schnoz and pink floral kerchief.  She's ready for a day on the town!  Taylor just moved here from Scottsdale, AZ (along with her humans and doggie brother Tucker).  Pace yourself Taylor....you have a lot explore and sniff (and herd) here in Sarasota.  Welcome to SRQ!  

Doggone Adorable

Walking down Main Street, I noticed a sign outside Southeastern Guide Dogs announcing 'Puppy Hugging 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.'  Who could resist such a sign?  Through the storefront window I could see about a dozen happy canines playing.  Again, who could resist?  This was the first chance I had to visit the new Sarasota office of Southeastern Guide Dogs since it opened in downtown two months ago.  The little one on the left (I believe that's Brenna) is 18-weeks-old and is in the seeing eye program.  By the time she graduates, when she's about 2-years-old as I recall, she'll know 40 commands and will be able to assist her human.  All the others in the photo are therapy dogs who visit nursing homes and hospitals.  I just love that!  The facility is spacious with a play area for the dogs, an education room (presumably for the humans) and a gift shop.  As it turns out,  they have a 23-acre campus in Palmetto (a little north of Sarasota) and give tours.   If you can't visit either place in person, check out their Puppy Cam  --- it's irresistible.   There's lots more info on their website:  www.guidedogs.org

Imhotep

Meet Imhotep!  Since he's a basenji like my Mulligan, I had to say hello when I saw him at Bird Key Park.  Like any good basenji, he was typically cat-like and aloof, more interested in sniffing the wind and grass and scanning the horizon than anything else.  Basenjis are curious barkless hounds from Africa.  So, his owner told me, he's named Imhotep, after the first architect of pyramids.  I don't know about buildings, but basenjis are always designing a plan.   They're so intelligent...so cunning....so playful....they can design and hatch a plot before you realize what's happened.  Usually the plot has something to do with gleefully shredding paper --- a favorite basenji past time. (Strange but true.) Hmmm...I wonder what Imhotep was contemplating when I snapped this shot.

Bow Bow Wow

What does a happy hound standing at the bow of a boat cruising Phillippi Creek say?  Bow wow!  Probably won't be too many boaters out this weekend....temps are supposed to drop below 70.  (At last.)  Happy Friday!