Who Let The Dogs Out
Friday, February 17, 2012
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Tune in tomorrow morning at 10:00am to watch Wally make his debut on Animal Planet. http://www.wholetthedogsout.tv/
Wally, born February 2nd, 2011, is the newest member of the team and has traveled with the gang cross country, making it as far as The Big Apple. There he proved himself to be a real trooper after making his first Television appearance in the arms of Senator Huckabee on Fox's Huckabee Show, and then again with MLB's The Mets. He began skateboard training at 3 months old, and has already become obsessed with extreme sports, just like Tillman! He's also quite smart, and knows over 20 commands! He loves baseball, soccer, and surfing, and even got to catch a few waves on the "World's Longest & Heaviest Float" in the 2012 Rose Parade. Under my loving care, Wally has become a sensitive super star in the making, with a cheeky side for fun. His passion in life is skateboarding and hanging out with his best friends especially following big brother Sully everywhere he goes. Wally is a very good boy, and will even kiss and hug when you ask him!
Episode 1 begins with Wally as a 10lb, 10 week old puppy doing his "firsts" of many! You'll not only see him get his first bath, but, he'll meets and play with Tillman, Rose and Sully for the first time. I don't want to give away too much inside scoop, but, Petco's Who Let The Dogs Out proves to be a fun, heart-filled ride - perfect for the entire family.
http://www.petco.com/Shop/ProductList.aspx?PC=productlist&Nav=101&N=30+22+4294951686&CoreSearch=tillman
Meet Wally – Puppy in Training!
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
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Wally was born on February 2nd, 2011 – Groundhogs Day. I knew I wanted a boy – apparently boy bulldogs are more cuddly and dependent, as opposed to the females, who run independent and more aloof, according to the experts. And, in my experience growing up with bulldogs, that in fact was true. I knew I wanted a white and fawn little boy, and as I searched throughout California, it became apparent that there weren’t many male pups available in the time frame necessary. You see, life took a very unexpected twist of fate the week prior.
One of the most underrated and shocking events that can happen in a person’s life, is losing a pet. Pets are our children. We nurture and love them from the ground up. We develop a language and a way of life, and for Lyle and I, our bond had become our livelihood. Not only did we love each other deeply, but, we worked together on a daily basis. Almost as random as Lyle learning (on his own) to skateboard, he passed away April 6th, 2011, just as randomly. He had a very rare disease that showed no symptoms, and snuck up on the both of us, out of the blue. There was no cause, there was no rhyme, and there certainly was no reason. Losing a best friend is the ultimate lesson that life is going to occur – whether we like it or not. But, what I learned through Lyle, the incredibly enlightened and gifted soul, was that the blessing and the curse are often the same thing. Call it what you will – God, Universe, Synchronicity, Fate, or Nothing at all – sometimes there is a plan or path that unfolds before us, and we either choose to step onto it or not. I surrendered to the forces that be and with love realized that the miracle was Lyle. The miracle was that Lyle lived his passion to skateboard. He lived with peace, love, and happiness. And, when his time came – he proved himself to be the champion he was. Stoic, Zen, Grace, Purity, and Love – qualities that Lyle represented always. And, as my heart broke into a million little pieces, I had an awakening. I saw the gifts and blessings swirling around me. I was the lucky one living and loving Lyle on a daily basis. He was a true miracle, and will forever be my guiding light. For through his talents, I learned to be a trainer. I see crystal clear now - although Lyle isn't with me anymore on earth, he is with me in spirit. He brought me back to the most pure understanding that I am not alone. I am taken care of, and the proof is all around me. We can’t always see where this magical path will lead us, but, I knew that if Lyle brought me onto that path, everything would turn out ok. I could trust that the best possible outcome would occur. And, that it did!
Natural Balance Pet Foods our employer were beyond supportive during this time. And, if I had ever questioned my place as a trainer in this incredible family of pet lovers, I no longer did, when a new Puppy arrived at my door step just one week later. Some people thought it was too soon. But, I was ecstatic. I yearned to care for another bulldog, and needed my daily routine as a dog Mom to continue once again. Nothing heals a heart like a new puppy. And, I will forever be grateful that my dedicated and wise employer knew this before I did.
Wally traveled far and wide from Sedona, AZ to come to my side. We were about to head to NYC for a solid month of filming our new Reality TV Show “Who Let The Dogs Out” www.wholetthedogsouttv.com slated to air on Animal Planet this February 18th, at 10:00am on Animal Planet. So, we needed a puppy quickly. As, I mentioned, California didn’t have any pups that fit the bill – though cute – I really wanted a male. So, from one of the most healing cities on earth, Sedona, the next miracle appeared right before my eyes. As I opened the door and saw Jimmy Van Patten holding young Wally, I cried with joy. I put my hands out to take in my new baby, and low and behold, Wally hugged me with his paws. A real hug and a twinkle in his eye. He was delicious. And, I knew he would be real good to his new Mamma who was fragile from the loss. I count my blessings every day that I am this lucky. Wally seemed to be hand selected by Lyle himself, and I knew that together, Wally would help me heal. And, I also knew, we now had a secret weapon - Lyle our guardian – watching over Wally and whispering wonderful stories about how to become the next skateboarding champion directly into his ear. We weren’t alone at all; we had a team of unexpected canine athletes on earth and in the sky supporting us as we stepped into our new life, officially.
The Big Apple
Sunday, May 01, 2011
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It’s not that we haven’t been busy at work, traveling the country event to event, that I haven’t written an entry since March. It’s that writing a blog is more difficult that it might seem. Perhaps it’s the commitment to a daily or weekly (or now even monthly) dedication, or the fact that writing is a tricky art, or maybe it’s just more that I have been lazy. Whichever the reason, I am going to try and write more!
April: Lyle and the gang hit the Big Apple. So much happened over the 12 days we were in the city. Press every day, and not just random press – big, huge, serious press including The Today Show, Fox & Friends, CBS Early Show, Good Day NY, ESPN, and many others. Each press event brings a new set of issues to be solved on the fly. Is the ground they dogs skating on flat enough, wide enough, long enough? Is it live TV and if so, what if the dogs miss. It’s intense because when you work with animals you just never know what they are going to do. Of course, our dogs are superstars and always pull through, but the producers don’t understand this always and push the dogs like they are human.
After an interview with People Pets, we decide to skate Time Square. It’s a thing Ron has always wanted to do and we figure we might as well do it with People Magazine looking on. It begins to drizzle, but the group decides they must “Rambo mission” to Times Square and get the shot. On the way there, we pass John Legend who happens to have his bulldog Putty with him. We take some photos with him, and carry on through the rain drenched streets. The team takes their positions, with wild traffic zipping by. Myself and Steve are at one end, Joey, Danny and Erni at the sides. Our hearts are pounding because one false move and Tillman could spin out into the traffic. It’s risky but worth it. Tillman sails down to catch his ride, and we get the shot of a lifetime. Tillman skates Times Square.
At night we explore the city. I am a Manhattan native, but traveling with this group I too even discover new and exciting things. We go to all the restaurants where gangsters were shot and killed. The dead gangster tour, we like to call it. My Birthday falls during this trip and I spend it with my father and brother. But, the whole reason we are even in NYC is to be a part of a “Bark in the Park” and event that Natural Balance is hosting with the Mets.
The main event is 10 days deep into our NYC stay. We are tired, worked, but happy at our successes. The day of the game everyone seems more relaxed because we can see home base – no pun intended. The Guinness Book of World Records is there to certify the most number of dogs in uniform to ever attend a ball game. Of course we win the coveted certificate and proceed into the game. It’s unlike any other game I have ever been to. This time, our dogs are the grand marshals of the parade, and we get full access to the field. The gates swing open, and behind Lyle, Tillman, Sully and Rose are 500 dogs and their owners waiting to march around the field. The parade is a hoot, and we are asked to stop behind home base to watch the first pitch, thrown by one of our own Steve Garvey. The dogs are superstars – people shout out their names and stop for autographs. It’s truly amazing and I am still in awe.
We proceed to a sky box – and eat hot dogs and hamburgers as we watch the Mets win the game with the bulldogs as their good luck charms.
Learning to fly
Monday, March 22, 2010
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It’s been about a month since Vancouver. We have been pretty mellow except for our new schedule consisting of 3 skateboard sessions a week, 2 ½ mile walks a day, and constant play sessions with Sully and the gang. Lyle seems to be enjoying himself, although he definitely looks at me with a vapid look when I happen to slack on the routine, or if by chance it’s not as fun as he had hoped.
We are gearing up for a trip to Orlando for the largest Pet Trade Show, Global, www.globalpetexpo.org/Default.asp. And, now after the Rose Bowl parade, and the Winter Olympics he also seems to know the difference between just a “regular” day and a “special” event day…or better yet a trip. On a regular day, he sleeps in until he pleases, gives me nonchalant glances as if this could quite possibly be the most mundane day yet. Always slightly miffed we aren’t in front of cameras skateboarding or getting treats every 5 seconds. But, on an event day, it’s a whole other story. I’m not sure how he can tell the difference, but am starting to think maybe it’s because I always tell him that it is; I am convinced he understands English. It’s funny actually, I’m from the school of thought that when training a dog, you must speak to it the way you would an infant. Speaking to infants using so-called infant-directed speech: short, simple sentences coupled with higher pitch and exaggerated intonation helps them develop their language. One step further, I believe in a subtle mix of “dog-direct” speech to aid in the communication with your animal. I am sure one might think this crazy, but I have always spoken to Lyle as if he can understand what I am saying. Now, do I think my dog knows exactly what I am saying? No. But, I do think he can gather from the tone, sound, inflection, and stress level in my voice how what I am saying is going to affect him.
For example, if I am going out for a night on the town, I will tell Lyle exactly what is happening. “Lyle, Mommy is going out to dinner with Auntie Phoebe. We are going to Gjelina on Abbot Kinney, and I won’t be late, but there is a small chance that we might go get a drink afterwards. But, don’t worry, I will leave the light on, and also put your water bowl right where you can see. The TV will be set to Animal Planet and I will make sure I give you big snuggles when I get home”. He gives a knowing look back at me and then begins to “suckle” the corner of his bed, which is his sign of approval that he got the memo and feels ok about everything I told him.
Lyle and I leave a few days before we need to be in Orlando to visit my sister Porter and her new baby (my first nephew) Knox. Lyle has never flown on an airplane before and I am a little worried because of some of the horror stories I heard back in the ‘90’s. I ask around and everyone seems to think that it’s all peaches ‘n cream these days. In fact, i heard a few years back the major airlines all dumped a ton of money into “pet friendliness” programs that made flying with your pet much more user friendly with climate controlled cargo areas. There was even a CNN or 20/20 special with hidden nanny cams that went underground to make sure these airlines were telling the truth. Continental, America, and Delta were amongst the top, and even though United was pretty good they ranked lowest for “aggressive handling” of the animals. That’s a stain pet owners will never forget.
I choose Delta at $200 per dog each way, and $30 per bag. Plus the cost of the ticket, it hurts a little, ouch, but so worth it! Some might ask why not use Pet Airways www.petairways.com which is awesome if you have flexible travel plans. I did a search for a ticket from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale and there were no available dates for 6 months. In addition, all flights go through St. Louis, so regardless of where you’re heading, your dog will have a layover and take a full day to arrive at the destination. Whereas we took the red eye direct, and Lyle slept the whole way 4 ½ hours in a climate controlled large series 500 crate, deluxe with bed, blanket, water bowl, and fan. Bon voyage pooch!
Our Olympics
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
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We made it to Bellingham, WA in time to get a decent dinner at some place that had probably been at one point or another, a Longhorns, Chiles, or Applebee’s. Full with food in my belly, I deal with the dogs and pass out. The next day we cruise through border crossing without a hitch, although for some reason all three of us are nervous and slightly sweating. I have never been to Canada which seems strange being that it’s so close. We make it through without a hitch and pass into what seems clean, fresh air. We wind our way up through the mountain, and are all extremely eager to get out of the RV. It's been 3 days and although it’s really easy to sit in the back of an RV sleeping and reading, it’s also kind of stressful because of the bumps, motion and tight quarters.
The real purpose of our trip to Vancouver is to secure press on NBC. We’ve already had one big story on the local NBC affiliate Channel 4. http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/sports/Olympic_Snowboarding_Bulldogs_Los_Angeles.html
There is a mountain in Vancouver called Grouse Mountain, where the dogs will be snowboarding. Up until today we have only one confirmed press appointment with City TV Vancouver. Our job is to secure more press once in Vancouver and promote Natural Balance – which basically requires us to be publicist as well as dog trainers – but we’re up for the challenge.
Because it’s the Olympics media is strapped and so we are basically here to hustle; a skill I excel in. There is also zero snow and where we originally thought we would be snowboarding, we can’t access the Mountain (no extra snow for us apparently). So, we are going to do what we do best; skateboard. The group rolls 5 deep – Ron and myself, along with Darryl, Betsy and Steve. Ron and I work well together, we have that cool way of mind reading so before you ask it’s answered.
We skate for TV and the crowd goes absolutely wild. There are a lot of factors involved in having a bulldog skateboard for a crowd. First of all the dogs go absolutly berserk when the boards come out; Tillman can even smell it without seeing it. People think “oh dogs – skateboards – cute”. No, not cute people, hard core and somewhat dangerous, so back it up and don’t approach a skateboarding bulldog whose coming straight at you flying 20 miles per hour. It’s fun and crazy to see how excited and mesmerized people get when they see the dogs rip – I sometimes forget that what I see on a daily basis, some will only see in their lifetime once.
We end up skating around Vancouver, basically shutting down major city blocks. The cops don’t seem to mind, they just watch and smile and try and chat me up. They kind of feel more like Olympic Tour Guides, telling people where to find bathrooms, restaurants, and bus stops. I am amazed because if we did this in the US we’d probably be thrown in jail. But, here in Vancouver with the Olympic energy wafting through the streets, people (cops included) know something amazing is about to happen.
We wait for the intersection to turn red. It’s funny how a crowd can tell when something is about to happen. Their energy mixes and mingles creating an enchanting feeling, and people can sense that something is a brew. There is a subtle murmur, people are buzzing now, wondering what’s happening. Maybe it’s the 3 camera men who are moving in ever so slightly for the best view that clues the crowd in, or maybe it is the bark of Tillman as Ron makes his way into the frozen street.
We only have about 15 seconds until the light will turn green again and mid-day traffic resumes. Ron sends the board out and Tillman cascades for it, at which point the 300 people, who moments before were standing around clueless, now ALL try and lunge forward into the street. I’m on crowd control shouting “out of the street” “back on the curb” – nobody listens. But, Tillman is a pro and avoids them like a champ. He nails the ride, we secure Tillman and our team is out of the way, but people are totally entranced and don’t see that they are in fact standing in front of a bus stop that is about to welcome in a huge moving bus whose brakes may or may not work. We shout again “BUS” and finally the zombies wake up and barely escape decapitation by side view mirror. No one is injured and we repeat this somewhat risky show several more times.
While this is all happening Darryl notices that there is an ABC crew not too far from where I am standing. My nick name on the trip has become “bait”. Some could be offended, but I’m slightly flattered because my job is to sweet talk and charm the male camera men. I think it's hilarious. I make eyes with one who is actually pretty cute, and he smiles and notices the dog. I see my opening and approach to learn that our shenanigans actually interrupted a recording of CNN’s 20/20 days before and they were more than anxious to talk with us about what the hell we were up to. Next thing you know, I have a microphone down my shirt and am being interviewed for ABC Nightly News (which BTW is national).
Our gorilla efforts continue for the next few days. It’s fun and thrilling, but also exhausting. We are all having a blast running around Vancouver, but we're also pushing Natural Balance like nobody’s business, so it is tiring too. We work all day and hit the city by night. The streets are packed with thousands of energetic people from all end of the earth there to support their favorite teams. It’s usually a 2 hour wait to eat dinner in a restaurant and the bars are beyond packed. As crowded as the city is, it remains organized, clean and safe feeling. I am still amazed that we are a part of the Olympics - even though we didn't see any events - we are here in the middle of it all.
By the end of the trip we have done the best we could do nailing footage for ABC Nightly News, Good Morning America, Russia TV, Local Canada TV, CTV, The Vancouver Sun, and TMZ. It’s a dog eat dog world out there, but somebody’s got to do it. In the end we are know for the top 5 things you might not know about the Olympics...pretty cool.
The Gang
Saturday, February 20, 2010
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Road Trip. Monday is Presidents Day and luckily I don’t have too much to do. I was very tired after celebrating all weekend, but, I was packing for a week in Vancouver, a city I heard was amazing, so I couldn’t complain. Know for Chinese food, A-class strippers and now the Winter Olympics; I was intrigued how this trip would turn out. Natural Balance rented us a stunning lodge style house overlooking Lions Bay just about 30 miles outside of Vancouver proper. It housed 6 bedrooms, a pool table, Jacuzzi, and a big huge open kitchen. I could get used to that, I think, as I remember I had left my tiny Venice cottage that looks like it could blow over in the wind, in shambles.
The morning of departure, Tuesday February 16th was a busy day. I going to be responsible for all four dogs, as it turned out, Ron had some issues to attend to and wouldn’t be driving up to Vancouver with the pups, 2 other guys and myself. A little worried about traveling for 30 hours in an RV with people I didn’t really know, I couldn’t help but feel a little sour. But, I sucked it up and put a big Olympic smile on my face.
We load up the RV, which is actually really nice. I have never been on an RV because my family wasn’t into that kind of thing. We were more the fly by night European vacation types, but, I had secretly always wanted to go on an RV trip. Packed with all the food and drinks you could think of and full utilities: a stove, sink, shower and toilet, this thing is sweet. I have a nice lounge day bed in the mid-section which is covered in plush, zebra pillows and leopard print blankets, it kind of looks like a strip joint in itself. While the dogs have the entire back room of the RV which is decked out with dog beds, toys, treats, water bowls making it the most fun little play room ever! Of course, though, they don’t want to be back there when everyone is up front, so they have taken over my bed too.
Steve, a nice guy that has worked for Natural Balance for 15 years, is driver, and we are pick up the assistant a.k.a “roadie” on the way. I am left to my own devices in the back. My main responsibility is to take care of the dogs, which might seem simple, but really it isn’t.
Like I said there are four dogs: Tillman, Rose, Sully, and Lyle. Lyle is easy because I know when he eats, pees, and poops. I know his moods, what he needs and when he needs it, like an afterthought. The other three on the other hand are a bit trickier to figure out.
Tillman, also 4yrs old is one of the sweetest bullies I have ever met. He is very sensitive and has a few moods to keep track of, knowing a few other Gemini’s, I understand him. He is tough as nails when it comes to his sports, especially skateboarding, but, as it turns out he is actually a real softy who loves some good, solid cuddling and attention. He is highly connected to Ron, and when they are apart, I can tell Tillman is sad. Tillman and I have bonded throughout the last few months, and he now follows me around the RV waiting to sit right next to my hip while I cuddle him. If I happen to give one of the others, mostly Lyle, too much attention, Tillman gives me the cold shoulder for a while until; I catch him giving me eyes. Then we make up. He is very expressive – his looks tell you everything – so it’s been a lot of making sure he and I are simpatico.
Lyle and he have been having some issues around who is getting more of my attention, mainly, who gets to best spot on my bed. They are about even, but I feel like giving Tillman a little extra lovin’ because he misses his Dad…and well, this is his RV! Thus the pendulum sways the other way and Lyle sulks off pissed that I gave Tillman more love than him - for that second. For the most part Lyle and Tillman seem to be helping me with the little guys, Rose and Sully.
Rose is 1 ½ years old and she pretty much sticks to herself most of the time. Being the only girl, she gets a lot of attention from the boys, which consists of humping from Tillman, rough play and food/toy stealing from Sully, and bouts of wrestling from Lyle. It’s no wonder she constantly seems tired, but also really nice because she sleeps a lot. She also loves balls like nobody’s business – who can blame her though - girls.
It’s been pretty easy getting Rose on the schedule of the 2 boys, but, then there is Puppy. And, I forget sometimes how much work a puppy is. I had it pretty easy with Lyle who slept ALL the time, but puppy Sully, is one of the most rambunctious little critters I have ever taken care of. But, he is amazingly fun and sweet and actually holds his own with most of the other dogs. However, Sully Poops more than any puppy I have ever met, so just when you think all four dogs have shit for the millionth time in one day, Sully takes a big one right in the middle of the RV. Oh well, it doesn’t bother me, but, Steve didn’t seem to please when he stepped in it yesterday and tracked it all around the RV and on his pants.
The four dogs have become like a family, and I their keeper. A mix of a mom and a baby sitter, wouldn’t it be nice if they really were all mine. I have grown so fond of each one, and actually miss them when they aren’t with me. I look out over the RV now and see them all sacked out in their spots, which in fact are my spots. But, once they are down for the count, my job is done and I can chill. Sleep, read, write and do what I love most – get lost in my thoughts.
We are in Oregon now. I have never been here either. It’s beautiful and I am just being chauffeured, so it’s actually one of the most enjoyable “vacations” I have had in a long time. I’m reminiscing about my childhood. I grew up in New York City – Upper East Side. My father and mother met in the city and both lived there for 25 years. I am proud of being from NYC, as I listen to Jay-Z’s new Empire State song. And, for some reason the pine trees and forest zipping by, ironically remind me of my city upbringing.
On Fridays at noon our school, The Trevor Day School, would let out early about noon, so that parents could pick up kids early and get a head start to their weekend country houses in Long Island. We also spent summers there, getting out of the hot, mucky city to sit by fabulous pools and beaches. I see small farm houses now, mixed between pines and think how different this version of my childhood would have been.
I think about this amazing conversation I had with my mom last night. We laughed and laughed more and more hysterically over how it’s really no surprise that I now find myself on an RV in the middle of Oregon babysitting and training four bulldogs how to snowboard for the Olympics. It’s no surprise to my mother because her great grandfather actually started one of the first circuses in the US. In Vaudeville, a lesser off-shoot theater district of Broadway, in the early 1900’s. Great Grandfather’s name was Clemens Belling and he was the ring master. His shtick was an act with four black standard poodles named whisky, gin, rum and some other like that. He had married Luba, a Russian acrobatic, who stole the show. That was actually his second wife, the first had died in childbirth, and Clemens needed to find a new woman not only to be a part of the act (frowned upon if not all members of the family were performing) but also raising his first 5 sons. How funny that centuries later his off springs off spring, me, is still carrying on the showmanship tradition by taking four more dogs to perform in the biggest show of all. I chuckle as I write my Hollywood Pet Mom blog on the way to yet another show.
Road to the Olympics
Friday, February 19, 2010
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After training in the field for a few weeks, Lyle and I were jumping for delight when we heard that we would be heading to Vancouver for the Olympics! What?! Yeah, The Olympics. Lyle had officially projected himself into the winter Olympics 2010. Just when you think the deal is as sweet as it can get, this kick ass company amazes with upping ante.
We spend the next few weeks training in the Mountains outside of Los Angeles, which I, in 7 years living in Los Angeles, have never visited. Mountain High, just short of 2 hours away, opened their gates to us by giving us the entire bunny slope and kiddy ski lift for our four super dogs to practice on before the main event. Lyle had never been in the snow, neither had puppy Sully, and I was so excited to see how these little guys would react.
Before we arrived we outfitted the dogs in snow coats and boots, as well as little hoodies to keep them warm when drinking hot cocoa in the ski lodge. I don’t know about you, but some people love dogs who wear clothes, and some people hate it. A friend of mine just published a book from a blog he gained notoriety over called “Pets who want to Kill Themselves” http://petswhowanttokillthemselves.com/page/2 Lyle was actually asked to be a part of this book, but I passed, thinking it wasn’t the best PR move considering he was like the happiest dog on the planet. Plus, I had just bought him a hip ski jacket with X’s and O’s all over it. Anyway, our Olympians were dressed for the gold as we hit the slopes. We weren’t quite sure if the dogs would actually be able to snowboard in the real snow. After all, the entire float had really been a simulation of snowboarding. It was a long slide made out of a poly-plastic or something, but for a dog it was just like snowboarding, the only difference was it wasn’t real snow.
I have learned a few interesting training tips from working with Ron; mostly you just never know why and when a dog isn’t going to want to do their thing. The snow might freak them out or they aren’t in the mood that day, and game over. Or they might go absolutely insane, like they did, and impress even us that they really were real snowboarding bulldogs. They cruised down a real snow ski slope on waxed skim boards and we all just thought, here we come Vancouver!
http://www.mthigh.com/video/
In addition to all the winter fun on the slopes, our play by plays are documented by a production company that is filming a reality TV show that they hope will sell to ABC, NBC or one of the big boys. Its cool having cameras around, but also a little nerve wracking wondering what in fact will come of my every move. Ron and I have by this point become excellent friends with a witty, sometimes flirty, banter that feels more like a ping pong match than a conversation. It makes it fun, but, the director also referenced Bruce and Cybil from Moonlighting as a guide. Have you watched any re-runs recently? Well, you should – kind of amazing - but to my surprise there’s a steamy get together scene in season finale that has me feeling a little nervous about where this whole thing could go. Plot thickens, we just found out we will be driving up to Vancouver in an RV. Yup, over 30 hours in Tillman’s RV with 4 bulldogs, 3-5 people, and god knows what else. I take a deep breath and thank my lucky stars I actually like these people. It’s going to be another once in a lifetime experience and I am beyond excited. Did I ever imaging in my wildest dreams that Lyle would be my ticket to an Olympic games? No, yes, I don’t know. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world and celebrate with a ruckus Valentine’s Day weekend with friends at the Chateaux Marmont. When in Rome right?
On the Job
Thursday, February 18, 2010
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We didn’t really know what to do with ourselves the first day back from Rose Bowl Parade. Both Lyle and I kind of mopped around the room wondering what we should be doing. It was the worse "come-down" from a holiday/party/sugar-high I had ever experienced. Monday dragged on and all I could do was recount the amazing visions of events that occurred the week before.
I hoped we would be hired, but it wasn’t a sure thing. But, by Wednesday we had a call from Joey asking us to come in to discuss the future. I was thrilled, even though I didn’t know what to expect, I knew that I would kill for the chance to work for such an amazing company.
As it turned out Lyle and I were hired to skateboard and snowboard in special promotions and events with Tillman and the other dogs for a year. We were brand ambassadors or spokespeople, if you will. Our days would be spent training with Ron, who now rocked the title “World’s Greatest Bulldog Trainer”, and I was excited because Lyle still had some serious work to do.
We spent the first few weeks in the field with sales reps learning about the pet food business, specifically about Natural Balance Food. Natural Balance has been in business for 21 years and has managed to grow to enormous numbers, while still being privately held. But, because of this the food has maintained a great reputation of being a premium, high-quality food made with a limited ingredient diet of all naturals.
I spent the most time with Mandy, one of the best sales people I have seen in a while; she knew her food and pricing like a champ. She was responsible for all the independent stores (boutiques) in and around Los Angeles. Mandy, Lyle and I would go out in the field making morning visits to all the cutest stores in LA. Lyle was there for meet and greets, and the owners melted over him. Lyle is probably the most sociable of the bunch; he loves friends and people, and never seems to tire of being a butterfly.
We hit about 8 stores a day and by the fourth store Lyle and I were treated to a delicious lunch, where Lyle even got to order off of doggy menus. We were in dog heaven - getting paid to do what we loved – to meet new people, visit stores, and eat lunch at places that really appreciated Lyle.
I learned a lot about the food and how to read labels as well. I would consider myself a very conscious dog Mom when it comes to the nutrition of Lyle. Before I discovered Natural Balance food, I would buy the ridiculously expensive organic formulas that were in fact no more organic than the less expensive ones. I never read the label; really, I just based my choice off the packaging and the price. Somehow I got it in my mind that the more expensive the better. But, that is not the case, and I want to let you know how to properly read a label and what that label means.
Ok, step 1: look at the top 3 ingredients. If those don’t say the kind of protein source then don’t read any further. The first 3 ingredients are the most important, because they make up the majority of content in the food. When it comes to Natural Balance you will notice that those three ingredients are always protein, and carbohydrate sources.
Step 2: what those ingredients really mean. When your food says chicken meal for example, that doesn’t mean the food the chicken eats like corn meal or something, oh no. This is what is used in most pet food and is basically the dehydrated parts of a chicken. A factory will take the bones, skin, meat, really the parts that can’t be sold at a higher price (but, not bi-products in the case of Natural balance and every ingredient they use is tested for human consumption levels, BTW).
Another term I wasn’t sure of was “whole chicken”, or “whole wheat”…or the word “whole” on a dog food label for that matter. “Whole” means that the entire thing, whether it be a chicken or a piece of corn, just ground down…even the parts your dog can’t digest, like corn husks and shells. Another important note is that if corn anything is anywhere in the top 3 lines, think twice, because corn is like sugar and isn’t always great for your dog. But, most dog foods use corn products in the formula because certain parts of corn are good for your animal, and help give the food a great consistency. However, if there is too much corn anything, your dog will have to eat more to feel full, and that isn’t always the healthiest. But, the label can also say Chicken meal...sans the workd whole, and this means only the meat! Who know, I would have thought "whole" meant better...but it doesn't!
Step 3: Any words you can’t pronounce should be in the last few lines of the ingredient bag. And, if you are going super organic with little to no carb source, I suggest thinking twice and going to a more well-rounded product like Natural Balance. Those low carb high protein dog formulas are relatively new on the market, and because of that few long-term studies have been done to see how a low carb diet will affect dogs in the future. It’s kind of like feeding your child Adkins diet for life, you just don’t know what will happen, and your baby needs the good carbs too!
The Rose Bowl Parade!
Friday, January 01, 2010
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In the weeks leading up to the Rose Bowl, Lyle and I were on ABC, KTLA, NBC, FOX, ESPN, and Fuel TV. It was an endlessly fun ride of press and appearances. I would prep Lyle the night before these big debuts with a bath and a great meal. Now wondering almost every second how he was feeling, was he hot/cold, tired, bored, happy, ready…I had gone off the deep end with pleasing my pup, but then again he had gone off the deep end with being so rad at snowboarding that I called it a wash.
We were also incorporated into a TV special "The Making of the World’s Longest Float" www.jonespets.tv that aired on KTLA a subsidiary of ABC in Los Angeles. It was our first official appearance on TV (together, that is) and we were happy with the results, especially the part where I held Lyle like the baby he is, wondering if he was asleep or awake as he snored on national TV (a perfect representation of our reality).
By this time, Lyle had officially bonded with his new team mates and new best friends: Tillman, Rose and the new puppy, Sully. Sully was purchased in November to be the newest member in the float team, and boy did Lyle love Sully. So, as we checked into the Sheraton of Pasadena, our home for the 7 days leading up to and following the parade, Lyle and his friends were stopped constantly in the hallways, pet to no avail, and begged for their photos to be taken with their fans. They loved it and so did we, however, getting to and from our room to the lobby was a half and hour venture. But who could complain, we had the world’s most famous dogs and people were there to see them, not us.
So much happened while in Pasadena - almost too much for me to recount now - a play by play could be a book, so I will share some personal highlights. The custom dog bed, dog gift-bags loaded with Natural Balance food waiting perfectly in Lyle’s room for his arrival. Being able to see the incredible detail of the floats decorated with all natural ingredients like poppy seeds, coconut, and fresh flowers. Riding in the messiest van I have ever seen with my co-worker, his son and my mother as the 4 super dogs romped with delight in the mess. Being a part of a once in a lifetime opportunity of riding on a Rose Bowl Float with millions of people watching to see if our bulldogs could indeed snowboard down the World’s Longest Float. Feeling like a proud Mom when Lyle NEVER missed 1 ride out of 300 - a perfect batting average with stamina that shocked all of us. And of course, spending New Year’s Eve with so many amazing and positive people, like my dear friends Matt and Vavine, my Mother who needed to cut a rug like nobody’s business, and my new found bulldog friends.
I will pass the baton to my dear friend and fellow blogger Vavine Tahapehi who so eloquently wrote the best article on her experience at the Rose Bowl Event.http://livinginamorica.blogspot.com/2010/01/rose-coloured-beginning-to-2010.html
A little 101
Sunday, December 20, 2009
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And so it went throughout the training process. Two times a week Lyle and I would show up to training camp and have the time of our lives! There was a Showboarding Bulldog competition to find two additional dogs to snowboard in the parade with the 3 pre-chosen pups: Tillman, Rose and Lyle. What a hoot, with over 60 snorting, smelly, slobbering Bulldogs - all trying to win a perfect score - all us humans could do was laugh.
That’s one of the best parts of owning a Bulldog. They are the comic relief in life. Out of all the dog breeds, they seem to be the ones whose purpose is to be so ugly that they are so unbelievably cute and adorable. But, that wasn’t always the case.
The Bulldog was originally bred for bull-baiting. In the late 18th century the Brits cross bred the bull mastiff and the pug in order to create a dog so perfectly suited for a sport. One that the Spaniards had proved most watched and loved – Bullfighting.
Just before the bulls would be let loose in the arena, bulldogs were unleashed to chase, attack and aggravate them. The dogs’ flat noses (a feature taken from the Pug) allowed them to breathe as they latched on to the neck of the wild bulls, using their absurd under bites, all the while bull blood so conveniently dripping down through these aggressive dogs deep wrinkles. This was no random twist of fate; rather essential features bred for survival, marking a historic first glimpse of dog breeding.
Centuries later the English bulldog still has those signature physical traits; however, all the aggressive tendencies were long gone. Now, they are one of the most gentle, lovable, cuddly dogs available. With the reputation of being amazing with children, great city dogs chalk full of personality, and more than ever now, known as being action sports enthusiasts that skateboard, surf and snowboard more than any other breed. People ask me why all the time, and I think it's because of this early bull-baiting breeding mentioned above.
You see the bulldog was also built with low centers of gravity so they could run with their head along the ground right up under the bulls. They were bred to chase the moving bull with no uncertain goal other than to attack it. And, that is preciously what a bulldog does to a skateboard. They charge it with their heads gunning for the moving wheels, then jump onto it, and hold on for dear life. They won't fall off because they are so low to the ground, and they will follow the moving wheels to the end of the earth.
But, not all bulldogs can do it. And, not all bulldogs who can do it can do it as well as others. Within this crazy world of skateboarding bulldogs not all are created equal, proven by the best, Tillman, who will blow your mind every time you see him skate. Thank goodness, Lyle now works with Tillman daily learning how to separate himself from the frauds.
But, still the best trait a bulldog flaunts is its dashing sense of humor. Every single one I have know, (and I grew up with three Gracie, Ruby and Rocky – more on them later) have had the most amusing character. Idiosyncrasies that only people should have mixed with such charm and individualism, I knew that “when I grew up”, the only dog I would ever own was this constant smile machine.
Now, as I watch Lyle sliding down the practice slope with a huge smile on his face, I think about how genuinely into this activity he is. How can a dog love to go sliding down a 15 foot slide on a wheel studded skim board and think nothing of it!? How can he lunge himself onto a skateboard and zip off like a Pinocchio on a ride to Pleasure Island?
Lyle’s idiosyncrasies are my gift, nothing short. He is a lucky dog – with an 8 in his numerology chart – he found his passion in life. I’m just the lucky girl that got him - but I too have an 8. Sometimes I can’t believe that my dog Lyle is on his way to becoming a full blown celebrity. He has become my meal ticket. I am just here to make his dreams come true, but in the meantime, mine are coming true too. He is my silver lining, my comic relief, my constant reminder to expect the unexpected.
You're Hired!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
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As it turned out Natural Balance was going to do, for the second year in a row, a Rose Bowl Parade Float. Every January 1st, Pasadena, Ca hosts the internationally recognized parade to kick off the big football bowl game, The Rose Bowl.
In 2008 Natural Balance gained worldwide recognition with a float dedicated to skateboarding bulldogs. The World’s Fastest Skateboarding Bulldog Tillman, who is now Lyle’s mentor, stole the show as he impressed the world with his uncanny ability to skateboard better than any other dog to date. We had heard about Tillman before, everybody had. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQzUsTFqtW0 He was on a reality show with his owner, Ron Davis, the year before, and though he didn’t win, he was clearly America’s best dog. Tillman now worked for Natural Balance, with his sister Rose, who was a superstar in training to be another skateboarding bulldog phenom.
We sat in the meeting with Joey, as he recounted the first float, and explained how the 2009 float, would have to beat, with impressive awe, the year before. How he intended to do this was beyond anything we had ever heard about before.
“This year the dogs will be snowboarding” says Joey with a great smile on his face. And, not only will there be 5 dogs instead of 2, but after each dog swishes down the snowboarding ramp, they will hop on a doggy ski lift and ride back up to the top of the mountain for another run. And, to top it all off, the float will be in the running for the title “World’s Longest Float” ever recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records”.
And then “We think Lyle has just the talent to help us make this happen”. Jaw slightly slung open as I say “Oh my goodness! Thank you! We would love to be a part of this”. Really, I did a secret dance in my heart and shook hands with this genius man, who had seen and loved my boy.
That was the beginning of the most exciting time of our lives. Lyle and I would officially begin snowboard training on October 1st by reporting for duty at Training Camp, where a practice float had been set up to prepare the world’s greatest snowboarding, skateboarding bulldogs how to rip.
Training was a blast. I couldn’t believe we were being paid to have so much fun. I had been reading a book called “The Writings of Florence Scovel Shinn” which was all about divine destiny and the magic of the spoken word. How every person has the ability to welcome in abundance, wealth, heath, success, love and whatever other fruits they desired, so long as they ask for it according to the divine design of their lives. No forcing, or controlling situations because you think you have that power, but rather surrendering to something greater than yourself and trusting the universe, if you will. I couldn’t help but think this job was a demonstration of that theory at work. Work felt like play. I got to spend time with Lyle as he stole the show, and I was surrounded by positive people who shared the same passion with me: bulldogs.
Life was grand. I had even broken up with a boyfriend I cared much about at this time. But, I held strong to the idea that the right things would find their way into my life, if I let go and trusted what was meant to be. It may sound zany, but once I surrendered to this thinking, positive events kept unfolding. And, I just simply blocked all negative thoughts of doubt and worry. To my surprise, I had never been so happy, sitting back and letting life play out.
It was metaphysics at work, awe inspiring, and simply wonderful. I had forced situations for so long out of a fear that I wouldn’t get to where I wanted to go. But, once I let go of the fear, and stopped controlling every little thing, I felt my life open up. Now, I had a job I loved, working with a dog I loved, and being so genuinely happy I often asked myself “Is this legal?” And, the answer was always “YES!”
The Interview
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
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A few months passed and nothing happened. It was tricky for me, an entrepreneur that my friends nick named “Lexicon 5000” or “The Negotiator”. No - to sit back and let destiny take its course had up until this point not been an option. There was always something I could do to meander into an opportunity.
For the past 7 years I had been running my own jewelry design firm, called Neckisses by Lexi. I put everything into that bad boy, you know - as they say blood, sweat and tears; but really it was more like ego, vanity, and youth. The company was still teetering along, but several months before, I had to swallow the largest of ego pills to date and get a real job. I couldn’t sustain growth any more, and looming credit card debt was swallowing me. But, worse was my attitude, my indestructible to a fault attitude that my jewelry might possibly take over the world. Sales had been good – I had single handedly grown my own company out of nothing, so it wasn’t all pipe dreams, but I was forcing it. Pushing hard, like an A type mother pushes their newborn to potty train. As a young business woman my eyes and heart just weren’t as big as my wallet. And, I hadn’t learned the lesson that destiny will take its course, no matter what one might do to stop it. Luckily, my persistence, passion and unrelenting desire to never give up proved impressive to my next employer. So, I began the long, uphill battle of digging myself out of a hole.
My cell phone rang from an 818 area code, a number I never would have answered before for fear that it was this furniture sales rep that had been stalking me at work. “Hello- this is Lexi”, said with a qualified tone. “Hello – this is Joey Herrick, the President of Natural Balance, and we would like to have you come down to Pacoima for an interview with Lyle”.
The morning of the interview Lyle seemed proud and calm like a pro athlete channeling the zone before the big game. I carbo loaded him the night before (what’s a little pasta anyway), so he was ready to prove himself to the head of one of the world’s leading pet food companies, Natural Balance. I gave him a bath, got his skateboard ready, filled up his water jug, and packed fresh chicken treats into our little Honda Fit, a once nice car that had officially been usurped by a bulldog – not a pretty site.
At Pacoima, we made our introductions; I thought I saw a glimmer of excitement when Joey first laid eyes on Lyle. I am sure all mothers say this, but Lyle is an exceptional looking bulldog. He is clean for starters. His wrinkles are nice and dry, they don’t smell and they aren’t that stained reddish color that many a flat nose dog has. His coat shines in the sun and he has the most unbelievable polka dotted ears, just like his birth Mom, Gracie. His face is solid white, his body fawn with little white booties for feet. He is cute, and even cuter is his coy and playful personality. Everybody says so, I promise, it’s not just me.
Lyle nailed it. I mean, he couldn’t have done a better job. He seemed calmer than normal. He didn’t lose his mind when he saw the board cascading down to the cement. Instead, he ran after it, and literally did what usually took him a few tries – hopped on and caught a ride. “Ok, ok, I’ve seen enough” shouts Joey from the other end of the parking lot. “Let’s go into the conference room, and we’ll talk about what we have going on”.
"When you have passion anything can happen" I thought to myself as we walked into the office. Everyone says that, but I just never knew what it meant. And, skateboarding was Lyle's passion in life. We hadn't pushed too hard, we let destiny take it's course. All, I did was love Lyle, take him out for fun rides in Venice. I really truly believed for the first time that something magical was at play. I mean, what are the chances that a. your dog skateboards, b. is then discovered, and c. hired by the big dogs.
It's funny what happens when you just let life take hold. No pushing and prodding, just letting things unfold organically. It's funny the lessons we learn from our four legged friends.
Lyle Gets Discovered
Sunday, November 15, 2009
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By this point we had moved into a cute, crackling white painted Venice Bungalow, right on California Ave. up from Abbot Kinney. It was a tad expensive, but I finally had a more steady income, and figured what the heck - it will motivate me, (or nearly sink me into the ground. A girl has to learn somehow, but I won’t realize this for another year of debt payments). Plus, Lyle and I could easily walk or ride to work, so, essentially it was perfect. Anyway, as luck would have it, one of the neighbors, Merlin, happened to have a Scooby Doo decal on the bottom of his wide, long skateboard. Lyle took to him (and the board) upon first site.
The bungalow was in a compound with 5 other little cottages – 3 on each side of a sidewalk that wrapped around in a loop- kind of like a track. It was the perfect place for Lyle to ride by himself. Every morning, I would wake up and begin the day while Lyle sawed off more logs and slept until he pleased. I loved it. Lyle’s not like most dogs in the morning. He doesn't runs to my room and scratch the door to go out. He doesn’t lick faces, or whine and bark to relieve himself. In fact, it’s the opposite. I usually have to lick, whine and bark in his face until a little eyelid peels open and he gives what I like to call “stink eye”. Eventually he wakes up, after some serious snuggle time with little ole me. And, now in the new place, with the enclosed skateboarding loop, I can simply open the door and let him rip. He’ll go from being sound asleep to full throttle skateboard mode in about 20 seconds flat. I don’t have the pressure to drag him down the street on a walk he doesn’t want to take, and he doesn’t have to wait for a “break” in the action to take him on a ride. He’s happy and so am I –it’s perfect!
Merlin works with Lyle on the new board and they become fast friends. Lyle is learning how to turn around the track, and how to push with his front and back legs to catch a ride. No more being pushed or pulled, this is the big leagues now. This routine happens 2x a day and Lyle is really beginning to “get it”. I can tell he enjoys the fruits of independent cruising around the compound – with his Mom cheering instead of teaching.
One evening the neighbor has a BBQ in the compound. I of course, send Lyle out for a little talent show surprise. The group cheers and chants for “Lyle, Lyle, GO, GO, GO!” I must have gone back inside; I wasn’t one for socializing with the neighbors – don’t ask. Anyway, that’s the end of the story for me…but, little did I know, it was at that BBQ where Lyle made some serious contacts that would eventually put him in front of LA’s top dog food company Natural Balance!!
To make a long story even longer, a few weeks later Lyle and I were walking home from work when a lady stopped us in the street. “Is he the skateboarding bulldog that lives up the street”? Me: “why yes, yes he is”. Well, she apparently had “hung out” with Lyle at the BBQ several weeks ago, and JUST HAD to put him in touch with her friend at Natural Balance who was looking for another skateboarding bulldog! I tried to conceal my eagerness, masked it will a calm, collected “wow, that’s so cool”. But, deep down inside I was beyond delighted that Lyle might have a chance to prove himself to the world. This Hollywood pet mom likes to think big! She took our information, and promised she would give her friend – the trainer – our info. Out of my control from there on out, we walked home with big, huge smiles on our faces. And, that night, we didn’t skate. We just went home and snuggled on the couch to Animal Planet, thanking lady luck and thinking enough hard work for one day.
Training Wheels
Sunday, November 01, 2009
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Over the last two years Lyle and I have been in hard core training mode with the skateboard. We've upgraded from the first Sponge Bob Square Pants board scored the day Lyle's passion was discovered to a Cars board that his Auntie Porter and cousin Gemma gave him with bigger, better, fatter wells.
Almost every day out we go for a skate around the Hood. Since Lyle is still quite slow on foot, I decided that the only way to get him from point A to point B is to cruise Venice style. It's really quite the sight to see, from the second he hears the words "skate board" he goes from being half asleep to being so completely charged up it takes all of my strength to keep him from knocking everything over on his way to the back-yard where the board resides - out of site - out of reach.
After he gets his "chew on" (the obsessive need to chew the wheels with a vengeance) for a few minutes, we hit the streets. The board drops to the pavement and he lunges in 2.2 flat on top of it, hardly letting anytime pass before squealing in delight. With high hopes to get one foot on, then the other, he begins pushing and running to catch his first ride of the day. At first I think he's goofy footed, but, no, all of a sudden he's paddling with the completely opposite foot. Ambidextrous? Now, as well as Lyle does with peddling and jumping on to catch a ride, he has gotten slightly spoiled. So, after getting up, he waits for me to pull him along with the leash. I typically yell out "push Lyle, push, push Lyle" at which point he looks up at me and yelps to the point of insanity until he realizes that indeed he must push to make the board go.
We do this routine for about a year. Making friends along the way, earning the nick name "The Mayor of Venice". People come by the house to say hi to Lyle; I think he officially has more friends than me. Where ever we go, people ask "Is that the dog on TV?" I usually say "Not yet", but sometimes for fun I say "why yes it is". Being a Hollywood Pet Mom, I know that someday his talent will be discovered, and Lyle will be on TV.
I begin taking him to auditions. They are usually in strange parts of town, with other strange people and pets. We both feel kind of weird "why are we here?" I keep asking myself. But, where ever we go, we are stopped in the street, called out to for photo ops, and other things that usually don't just happen with every dog. So, I take him to more casting calls - "what does he do?" they always ask. "Sit and stay" I meekly reply. "But, does he know “down”?" Me "not really, but he skateboards". They don't seem impressed; there are other dogs that do it better.
Then one day something happened - Lyle got discovered!!
It All Started
Thursday, October 01, 2009
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About 2 1/2 years ago. Lyle and I moved to the canals in Venice, Ca. We were out for a walk one fine, shiny morning. Lyle was about 1 1/2 years old at the time, and up until that point, he really didn't enjoy much exercise. It wasn't necessarily his fault; after all, ever since Lyle was a young pup I carried him around because he was just so cute. My brother actually said it best "Lexi (long, concerned pause) Lyle is the only English bulldog who has officially been transformed into a lap dog - he has to walk, come on!” But, he was so small and cuddly early on it was just too hard to put him down. So, flashing forward to Lyle at a year and a half, he didn't really care much for walking. Instead, he liked to go outside, look around and sniff a little, then lay down in the grass. Upon which time, I would make an attempt to discipline a walk out of him with an endless battle of push/pull. He usually won, and I ended up carrying him back home. Mamma's boy.
There we were though, standing on one of the canal bridges when a skateboarder came a cruisn' by. I'd never seen Lyle activate to this degree before. All of a sudden, he took off for the skateboard, caught up to the dude who at this point had a terrified look in his eye as he peddled faster, faster. Lyle knocked him right off, and replaced Dude on skateboard with himself - and off he went. One little leg pushing as he negotiated the board like a pro.
I ran to make sure Dude was ok, did not need any legal issues or liability claims - I was already going through a divorce and couldn't bear the thought of anymore paperwork. Dude was ok, Lyle had teetered off into a bush, just barely missing the canal (thank god, because bulldogs can't swim). We stared in amazement. I ran to Lyle singing cheerful praises. "What a good boy!", "oh, whose a good boy". Off Dude went - kind of rubbing his head and wondering why I hadn't paid more attention to the fact that my dog almost killed him. But, all I could see was that my son (yes, my pet is my child) had just found his passion in life.
Never before had Lyle been so happy - so proud of himself. We just stood there for a while both looking off in the direction the skateboard had sailed. His ears pricked up, his haunches ready to rock, to my surprise, Lyle listened this time when I said "come on, let's go home and go get you a board". Off we ran to the car and headed to Sports Authority to buy his first Sponge Bob Square Pants kids skateboard.
