The clock of life is wound but once
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hand will stop
At late or early hour.
Now is the only time you own!
Live, love, toil with a will;
Place no faith in tomorrow
For the hands may then be still.
- Author Unknown -
January 2005 Bulletin Board
Dear Springer Enthusiasts:
HAPPY NEW YEAR! And may 2005 be a year filled with good health, good fortune, good friends and good times with your Springers!
A new month --- a new year --- so often a time of new resolutions!! Don't forget your beloved Springer when making these resolutions.
If you are committing to a new exercise program or just some additional active time, plan on doing activities that can include your beloved companion. Dogs LOVE to walk; power walk; jog or run. They LOVE to go with you if you are cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing or just ANY activity. (I must confess they aren't the best skaters and sitting in the hut for hours ice fishing is rather boring after a while for a Springer!) It's also a great way to stay committed to your new program to shed those few unwanted pounds - you HAVE to take the dog out -- so you might as well both do something you enjoy.
Resolutions ... hmmm, here's another one. Commit to being more diligent with the grooming of your Springer. Remember to include nails and ears with that weekly brushing. If you do not trim the nails regularly, the quicks (the vein inside the nail) will grow and then the nails will be even longer. I can't imagine that it is very comfortable to walk around on long nails all of the time, so do your Springer a favour and keep those nails short. Also note that nails need trimming more often in the winter as the dogs are not wearing them down short on the sidewalks and asphalt as they do in the summer.
You know, your Springer can often "get in a rut" just like you do. Why not participate in something new? Springers excel in obedience, agility, tracking, etc. so why not get (both of you) off the couch and register for some new classes. A Springer with a job to do is a happy dog. Springers are loving, people-oriented dogs and also love being the center of attention -- so why note use these wonderful personality traits to the advantage and look into pet visitation/pet therapy at your local hospital or local nursing home. This is a very rewarding experience for ALL involved!
I also would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people in the extended Nanjay family who sent Christmas cards and Holiday greetings with my absolutely favourite thing enclosed -- a picture of their Nanjay Springer. It is so rewarding to receive the "annual photo" and hear how the many Springers are enriching their family's lives - just as they do for me. (Aren't they the best!?)
Sorry about the bulletin board being written so late in the month (today is the 15th!). Hmm, guess that is a resolution for me - get these bulletins posted on the first of each month! :-)
Till next month, take care, and remember, as always, have fun with your Springer!
