And Who Do We Have Here?

Can it be? Yes! Yes!  It is!   SHILOH! (George) at 4 months old!

Sire: CH. Gibson JH CGC

Dam: Birch Springs Wish Upon a Star

Just a brief intermission... Yesterday John had some rototilling to do nearby, and just so happened that it was next door to where Shiloh lives.  When he drove by with the tractor etc. loaded he noticed Shiloh out in the yard with one of his new owners.  On the way back he stopped and paid a brief visit.  John said Shiloh is doing really well, that he's a nice looking boy at 4 months old - today!   Sherry had sent this picture to us last week so thought I'd share it here on the blog.  Shiloh was very happy to see John and vice versa.  Good reports all the way around and oh yes - John's work was with one of our vets (also the vet Sherry uses), who happened to mention how nice she thought Shiloh was as well!  Moxie (Martha) is doing great too, Lili and her family provide frequent updates as well.  It's a small world too with Moxie because she's actually attending puppy classes taught by one of our neighbors who is an outstanding dog trainer.  It always means so much to John and I when we get pictures, emails, and updates about our Brittanys. What is especially nice about seeing Shiloh and Moxie photographs is their mother is Treasures mother, and their father is the father of Treasure's litter!  Speaking of which - on with the puppy update!

We can hardly believe that our puppies are already over 2 weeks old.  Every single day there are changes, from one morning to the next.  If you are one of those following along with the development of Anka's pups in the book "Art of Raising a Puppy" you'll notice we've gone from Chapter 3 (The Neonatal Period: 1- 13 Days) into Chapter 4 (The Light Shines in the Darkness, Transitional Period: 13 - 20 days). 

Over a period of about 48 hours the eyes of each puppy has opened.  And now many sensory capacities begin to function.  The eyes looked like little slits that widened more and more each day, until finally the eye itself is seen.  They cannot see very much, but can make out the shadow of Treasure or me, when I get down on the floor and lean over the whelping box  I have actually been 'woofed' at by a very wobbly puppy who was sitting up of all things!  They are not crawling - these pups are walking.  With the records we keep I can look back and see how they compare to other pups before and they started to walk on Day 11 - which is the earliest we've ever seen that. The pups are not yet interested in much human interaction although each time they are handled and cuddling they become increasingly more responsive to my touch. This is definitely a transitional period.  Sensory changes and physical abilities develop rather quickly during this time frame heading into the 3rd week of life.  The greatest change in my opinion occurs from 3 - 4 weeks when, at that time, pups are aware of everything around them and socializing takes on a greater meaning and becomes of the utmost importance.   We constantly have music playing in the dog house - with or without pups.  Our Brittanys enjoy the likes of Jim Brickman, Celtic Woman, Enya, and piano solos.  As the hearing of puppies develop, we do not want them to have a rude awakening and are very sensitive to the noises surrounding them.  As time goes on however we intentionally begin to expose them to more sounds and louder deliberate noise - afterall, this is a sporting breed and those who will become bird dogs must be accustomed (in time) to the sound of gunfire.  One time honored way of doing this is to make loud clanging noises while they are eating, and eventually fire a cap gun when they are eating.  This is one way they will associate a positive experience with loud noise.  And it's hard to believe but these experiences are really not that far off!   I plan to take steps towards weaning at 3 weeks, or in other words - this next weekend.  I do it the same way my parents did with Boston Terriers back in the 60's - with Gerber baby cereal!  I will make a 'gruel' using Esbilac, warm water, and the cereal and take each pup into my lap, and get them to lick a bit of the watery substance... nothing major, just an easy introduction.  As time goes on, the consistency will become thicker and shortly after that, the cereal will be replaced by moistened puppy food. We use the large size puppy saucer feeding pans.  I love messy puppy faces almost as I love messy baby faces when they are learning to eat solid food and take lots of pictures! (Who me? Take pictures?!) As time goes on, we will begin to feed the pups separately so that we have a good idea of their individual appetites, also it helps us see if there are any problems with snarly little babies when they are eating - NOT ALLOWED!

I'm jumping ahead I know... but who knows how often I'll be able to keep this blog up in the days to come!

We are looking forward to upcoming visits with those who have given us deposits on a puppy and so far everything is looking good for those who have been waiting... and many have been waiting a long time for Treasure's pups!   Availability is good for those who sent deposits in early as well as those who have been with us for awhile.  I'll be sending an updated email to those who are on these lists so you'll see where you stand as far as the selection process.  There are some of you who have not made up your mind yet and that's understandable.  We're never in a hurry to 'sell' a puppy just for the sake of it.  Our process includes being just as selective about hand picking our pups new owners, as we hope their new owners are about selecting a responsible breeder and puppy. There will be a nice selection of pups available and we are still going to accept serious inquires about this litter but always discourage random 'internet shopping'.  That's not what it's about and believe me, John and I can tell the difference!!  We are not a breeding kennel - and you'll never find us acting as if we were. To repeat an often used phrase which goes along with our philosophy - it is all about the love of the dog, both given and received.  In the meantime - enjoy these fleeting October days, take care and God Bless you and yours,

John, Ann and All things Brittany! 

Please take a minute and listen to this brief excerpt from the audio version of The Art of Raising A Puppy, by the Monks of New Skete. HighBridge Audio - The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete -: "This book is an essential source of wisdom, information, and inspiration for anyone who has a puppy or is considering bringing one home." It is also required reading for anyone bringing home one of our pups ;o) !! 

12 Day Old Puppies

All 11 pups and mom are doing fantastic.  Many of the puppies are attempting to use their little wobby legs to support their body and actually taking real steps at just 12 days old.  Those who are successful seem totally bewildered as they move so awkwardly and not in control of their own movement.  Sometimes they just take a nosedive into the pile of their littermates.  Other times they just go around in a circle and still there are a couple that are will navigate around the perimeter of the whelping box.  I have added their mother's puppy blanket which is all part of their neo natal experience of a different texture, different scent.  Treasure is now enjoying more extended periods of playing and exercising in the yard.  She has not attempted her 22 second lap around the house yet but she's had some fun running with Pippin who adores Treasure.  I'm watching the development of the little puppy eyes as I know soon they will show signs of opening.  We have started to lower the temperature of the whelping box area ever so slightly and leaving the pellet stove off.  The pups are strong and thriving and can handle the temps below 90 now. The location of where the puppies lay in the whelping box itself is the best indicator of their comfort level of heat and we adjust the above heat lamp accordingly. Treasure is in such excellent condition in ever sense of the word.  I love spending time just sitting with her and watching the pups.  I get mesmerized.  I take them out one by one under Treasures watchful, trusting eye and hold them closely.  Sometimes they will fall asleep in my hands or on my lap while I gently pet them.  And of course - there is that sweet puppy breath all newborn pups have!  I find that my day is full from morning to night; there are the usual chores to be done. I don't believe the "obligatory" interaction that occurs when doing the chores should count as time spent with each animal so I still work in long, quality periods of interacting with our crew here one on one, two by two, and/or altogether now everybody! For one thing, if I don't have that time with them - I feel the loss.  These Brittanys enrich our lives so much and are such an important part of all we do.  They don't ask a lot of us but they do give so much.  Right now the care and feeding of the pups is pretty much Treasure's responsibility other than our watchful eyes, weighing, etc.  In about a week and a half that is all going to change.  This is a very special time in their development and I'm enjoying every minute of it.  I know that raising 11 puppies to be the very best that they can be for those who await them is going to take every waking hour.  But all too soon - they will be gone.  I am looking forward to when they are about 5/6 weeks old and John and I introduce them to birds! Oh there really is a lot I'm looking forward to.  Their first time out on the grass, our first trek down into the woods, running across the yard, teaching them to come when I say "puppy! puppy! puppy!".  So many things... all for the love of the dog, both given and received.  I'm tired and writing fast and still dealing with the FUNK that surrounds the feeling of not quite coming down with something but also the Lyme Disease flare ups, especially as the weather changes. But I have some great pictures I'm going to get loaded over onto this blog from Picassa.  And a couple of videos but probably won't get that done tonight.  It's going to be an early night!  Have a great weekend, and take care and God Bless!  If you're on Facebook, we are too and have some great photos there.  (I'm hooked on playing Farmville and the Cafe...)  Take care and God Bless you and yours, John, Ann and ATB

To Julie, Love Treasure

Dear Aunt Julie,  I just want to tell you how much I appreciate the beautiful puppy blankets that you have already crocheted for my litter of Brittany pups.  I thought you would like to see a picture of me making sure that they have lots of my scent on them.  Ann let me borrow some of the blankets you made for her and Pippin for this picture but we all share here.  I really like the purple and blue one that you let me keep earlier this year when I was very sad.  You don't have to hurry or anything for others.  We just wanted you to know what a special friend you are to All Things Brittany and how much we all love you here and can't wait to see you again.   It's so nice to know each of my babies will take one of these crocheted blankets home with them when they begin the first day of the rest of their lives in about 7 weeks.  Lots of love and kisses from Treasure (give my nephew Bullet and my sister Sassy my love too, and of course Uncle Jim!) 

Frost on the Pumpkin? No! It's SNOW!

I woke up to let Jack and Pippin out in the middle of the night and to check on Treasure, pups and the others to find a full blown snowstorm occuring!!! UNBELIEVEABLE!  The forecast was for a Nor'easter, but we figured it was to be just rain!  Fortunately the temps were not cold enough for the snow to amount to much of anything but it was a slippery trek to the dog house needless to say.  Later on when the sun came up we let the dogs out for some fun in the crust of snow and took a few pictures, a sampling of which are here.  Treasure rolled and rolled on the snow, propelling herself much like the way I've observed otters move across a lake of ice during the winter.  She was thoroughly enjoying herself for sure.  The whelping box of course is heated by the overhead infrared lamp and the pellet stove keeps the air warm as well - so she obviously appreciated the refreshing cooler air and ground!  ALL things Brittany and I mean ALL of them had so much fun this morning - I kind of which there had been more snow for them to enjoy - err... maybe NOT... I am experiencing a bug, virus, or whatever... but the time spend with the crew always manages to make me feel just fine for a little while.  The sun has already melted the snow from the front yard so it will soon be forgotten.  It is, of course a preview of what is soon to come.  I don't remember October being this chilly though - usually it is much warmer.  Global warming? Nah... can't convince this native New Englander of such a thing.

Smiling smiling smiling because it continues to amaze me how absolutely wonderful Treasure and Gibsons puppies are doing. I would like to say I had no concerns about losing a pup during the first week - but there is ALWAYS that concern, especially during the first 24, 36, 72 hours and then the first week.  Absolutely anything is possible despite the very best care and health of all the animals.  We have a 100% survival after the first week. Every single puppy has shown a steady and consistent weight gain.  I look for the birth weight of a puppy to double by the age of 10 days.  The majority of these pups have doubled their birth weight.  The average weight of the litter now is 9.6 oz.  Several are over a pound. We're very pleased. They have had their first 'pedicure'.   Even at this young age their toenails grow rapidly and it's better for Treasure to keep them short and avoid getting scratched while they nurse. The intensity of their nursing increases daily.

We are now well into the first phase of the puppies early neurological stimulation development.  I wrote about this in great detail in the July 2, 2009 post about the pups Wish (Treasure's mother) and Gibson had.  It's very interesting.  Part of the reason for one of the exercises (touching the pads with a Q-tip, is to get the pups used to having their feet handled - this makes it a lot easier for future toe-nail cutting.  Speaking of which - it's good to get in the habit of cutting a dogs nails once a week from the time they come home.  This way the quick does not have a chance to grow into the nail very much, and the risk of bleeding is reduced.  Dogs toe nails should never be allowed to grow very long.  Pups especially have razor sharp toenails, not fun when there are young children involved who just want to love on a puppy - they can get very seriously scratched - just ask my young grandchildren. It's hard enough dealing with mouthing, teething little puppies who must be taught that the human body, fingers, hands etc. are off limits for their teeth.  Speaking of this, stocking up on a good supply of Kongs, and Nylabones will get any responsible dog owner through those rough places of teaching pup NO BITE!  We advise AGAINST ANY kind of rawhide bone, we have had dogs choke from small pieces that break off and worse - the rawhide gets balled up, gummy, ooey and gooey and sometimes can cause blockage.  Rawhide in any shape or form, in anything is bad news and as far as I'm concerned off limits - that's just my personal opinion.   Pig ears, Bully Sticks, Hooves if  prepared in a sanitary facility are treats that we will occassionally offer with supervison.   Personally, we prefer to go to our local butchers frequently and buy a box of bones for @ $5.00.  No need to worry about a dogs teeth when they are chewing on a fresh bone. John cuts the bones up into manageable sizes and let the dogs go at it.  Up until recently, we actually had what was left of Molly's first bone and she is 6 years old.  Kinda cool.  I know there are greenies and tooth brushes and all that - but I'm old school in some aspects - give the dog a bone for white teeth and healthy gums. 

Well I must take some new pictures today of Dottie, J.R., Lily, Cone, Patches, Trish, Sweet Pea, Arnold, Digger, Bert, and Smokey.  These are all the nicknames that John came up with to help us easily identify each puppy and monitor their development. We'll match them up with their names soon.  Also for those who are getting puppies from this litter, we will put together a reminder of our puppy selection process.  As I just say it's better to fall in love with all of these puppies - there will be no disappointment and we work hard to honor the preferences of each person who has an interest in a pup.  The testing and evaluating play a big role in helping us decide which puppy goes where.  It's so important to us.  It is not possible to look at a newborn puppy and say that's the one we want.  There are so many unknowns. Believe me, we experience this all the time ourselves! There won't be a big variance in these pups - we are confident about the disposition and hunting ability; there may be some variations in size/conformation. Each one is going to be absolutely spectacular and wonderful... but we know there are always those that stand out more than others. As breeders working closely with the stud dog owners, the selections will be very deliberate and no one will be disappointed!

In the weeks to come we'll schedule visits with the pups.  The first early visits will, out of concern for mother and pups, be limited to those who have provided a deposit and indicated their serious interest to a pup from this litter. When the pups are old enough to go home, we will schedule another round of visits.  John and I will be sending information out explaining this as times goes on.

That's about it for my energy spurt.  Jack and John are off together and I'm looking at laying back down. Even with the woodfire going, I'm feeling chills... YUCK.  This too shall pass though! Take care and God Bless,  John, Ann and our entire Brittany crew!

Brittany Pups - 1 week old

I snapped this photo on the way down to the 'dog house'.  They had already heard the sliding door open on the back deck and came out to see if I was headed their way or not.  Once they knew I was coming a chorus broke out (not sure the neighbors consider it a delightful melody or not though).  Left to right is Molly, laying on a cot pouting like the princess she is - Rosie, her daughter and the official scout for All Thing Brittany and loves the 'corner office' - Scooby, hidden behind a post but sitting stoically knowing if he doesn't move or make a sound he has a good chance of being first in line for a run - Wish, at the front (Treasure, Scooby, and Jacks mother) just about to emit a joyful yip to see me - Pippin, perched on her cot watching every move I make before deciding if it is worth it to put on a show for me - and Miss Treasure in the next run, guarding the entrance to the inside of the dog house by her door where the pups are. A wall separates the area where the pellet stove, t.v., couch, and Treasure's area is.  We've doubled up the rest of the crew so that Treasure is the only dog in that part of the dog house.  She is not shut in and can roam throughout the dog house freely but she has no direct contact with the others and they cannot see her unless she makes the decision!  The green ball suspended in her pen is for when the puppies are older; we lower and they love to play with it; there's also a Y shaped place of plastic culvert for them to all play in too. Our puppy yard to the far right has been revamped and probably won't be used this fall until we put the finishing touches on it.  Don't know if you can see the TV Satellite perched on the dog house - hey Snoopy, you've got nothing on the Brittanys LOL!  And that's  basically the grand tour.

One week old today and all 11 pups are doing exceptionally well and so is mom.  For those of you following our required reading for anyong getting one of our Brittanys which includes The Monks of New Skete Art of Raising a Puppy - you will find the first chapters in the book especially fascinating as you read these blogs, look at the pictures and follow the development of Anka's litter of German Shepherd puppies. 

Later today we hope to get some 1 week old pictures and should have a complete update.   I have to confess to battling something physical today - maybe just the aches and pains of cold weather, or a flare up of the darn Lyme Disease that plauges me from time to time.  John has suggested I spend the day kicked back on the couch - IN THE HOUSE!!!!   I'd much rather be on the cot nearby all the canine crew... but I guess I must draw the line today...Little Pippin and JackDog will keep me company. Pippin being an incredible cuddle bug and senses I don't feel too great.  Her mother Chrissy always would press up close to me when I had a migraine, I think Pippin is that way too. I want to be rested for when Pam and Sam visit the babies later as well. 

Take care and God Bless - John, Ann and All Things Brittanys

Previous VIDEO OF PUPS CLICK HERE

From the Whelping Box

Just a quick note! Beautiful day today. All 11 pups are doing great and Treasure is such a wonderful mother.  She's enjoying regular times of exercise but is always in a hurry to return to her pups.   I'm noticing things on the puppies like their little ears - they no longer look like they are made out of rubber as they did when they were born; now they have hair growing on them and the ear flaps are distinguishable.  Their eyes have formed slits that are clearer - they don't look like bulging alien eyes any longer.  The little peach fuzz is growing on their muzzles and around their mouths.  And they are so kissable!  I watch Treasure with them, she really has established a feeding routine with them and has a particular way she likes to manage her pups.  Some will fall asleep and kind of roll off of her, others will crawl back to the heat source under the heat lamp and a few will remain nursing while they snooze, that is until she decides to stand up and take a break.  When she does leave the box some wildly protest with screams - but she surveys her family, checks to make sure they are all clean and taken care of.  If there is one pup that continues to protest, Treasure will gently draw that one pup to herself, spend a little time with it and then try to leave again.  She knows them well.  The puppies weight is excellent, they all are steadily gaining, strong, thriving, and just perfect.  And Treasure is one proud momma.  A short note, take care and God Bless you from John, Ann and ATB

PS If you missed the youtube video it will be found on the post just prior to this one.

4 Days Old

The top picture is of all the handsome little boys, and the bottom picture is of all the sweet little girls.  I'm just finishing up our first video of the new babies so that should be on YouTube before I call it a day which will probably mean it's tomorrow already.  The days are long and the nights too short but experience tells me that the 8 weeks after pups are born pass all too quickly so we will enjoy this time, sleep deprived or not!

Treasure continues to do very well.  She has settled into a routine and so have we.  I like that she chooses to remain nursing her pups when I approach her rather than greet me with great exuberance.  She's really a calm mother compared to some.  Her appetite is great and she continues to eat well, so important for her and for her babies.  She's happy to run around the yard for a few minutes, but always races back to where her pups are safely waiting for her return.  Today she was a little more antsy than usual, and kept trying to find dark places to lay down again, as she did when she was going into labor.  But she kept going back to check where the pups where and would nurse and lick them before going back to the dark places again.  I love to watch her interact with the pups, they do the most amazing things together. To the untrained eye it would look as if all the pups do at this age is eat and sleep and eliminate.  Well basically that is true of course, but to sit and study their movements quietly is to understand they are active all the time, even when they appear to be sound asleep.   They change position, crawl around, shift, and seek out their mother and each other.  Technically they are not intellectually aware of their surroundings but they do learn to navigate around the whelping box, determine when to move closer to their heat source or away from it, and they sure know whem momma has stepped back into the box with them!  We're happy with the consistent weight gain of each of the pups.  The smallest one actually gained the most in the past 24 hours - we were so encouraged about that!  They are also beginning to 'snuggle' up to my hand when I rest it on the floor of the whelping box.  Some muzzle right into it and I gently caress their teeny bodies.  All of this is to prepare them to be handled by humans as they grow older of course.  I actually slept in the house last night although did make several trips down to check on Treasure and pups.  The cot that John brought down for me is actually very comfortable along with the pellet stove running.  I like the quietness of being with Treasure and the pups and the other dogs are nearby in the other part as well.  The heat lamp and the pellets burning give a warm glow and makes for a very restful environment.  John and I have had some good jokes about me coming up from the dog house in the morning in the early hours of dawn! Well, it is hard to believe October is half over and another weekend is upon us.  This will be a special one - Pam and Sam are going to come and meet Gibby and Treasure's pups!  I can't wait.

Take care and God Bless - and as always - thank you so much for your interest in our little corner of the world here at All Things Brittany!  John, Ann, Treasure, pups and our wonderful canine crew

72 Hours Update

Treasure is doing wonderful, she has plenty of milk, has turned into a chow hound, and is back to her playful self.  She's enjoying several romps around the yard throughout the day.  I am going to intentionally distance myself from her for a brief time in hopes of helping shape her behavior and keep her priorities upon her pups.  Emotionally and psychologically Treasure is vulnerable right now and as she is especially attached to me it's important she does not become moreso.  I have seen mothers completely overlook their pups in favor of spending time with their favorite 'human'.  On the other hand, even as I type I have one eye on the monitor where I can see and hear Treasure with her pups.  Any extended puppy cry or yelp will bring me running as well as when I know Treasure is ready for a break.  I have spent most days and several nights in the dog house now for almost a week but I would not have it any other way.  And there is something to be said to wake up right in the middle of the happy energy and joy of All Things Brittany as they rise to greet the day right along with me!  Gotta love it! John and I take turns spending extended periods of time and he has now nicknamed all the pups.  Speaking of pups!!!

At 72 hours they are all thriving, nursing, active, healthy and each puppy has gained weight.   Our vet appointment yesterday went extremely well.  Pups' dewclaws were removed and tails docked with John in attendance. Treasure and her 11 pups were each examined and our vet was very impressed and spoke highly of all.  We are blessed to work with several vets in the area who know us quite well.  We were told that the two littlest pups were just a bit dehydrated (wrinkly skin) and advised us to personally oversee their nursing times so they don't get pushed aside.  We've been sure to put them upon the 'preferred nipples' and let them nurse by themselves before the rest of the pups approach mom.  Already there are distinct personalities and characteristics beginning to emerge. We know who the piggies are and in fact one is nicknamed "Arnold" (Remember Green Acres, and Arnold the pig?!)   John did really well nicknaming the pups and this will make it easier for all concerned as we monitor their development.

I do have many pictures and a couple of brief videos.  Remember the quality will not be great, the pups are under an infra - red heat lamp and sometimes the pictures reflect that, other times it does not.  Honestly though I barely have enough time to sit and type these blogs never mind do photos and videos. But they will come.  I hope to get a Picassa slide show going with all the pictures here at once!

I hope that Pam and Sam are free this weekend to come for Treasure to introduce them to Gibsons pups. They are just as proud and happy as we are.  John and I believe that Gibson was a perfect choice and it was a no brainer after seeing what he produced previously with Treasures mother.  I was a little concerned of the numbers of pups this time - in a different way!  We are not a "Maine Breeding Kennel", which is defined by number of pups born/sold in a calendar year.  The cut off is 16!  We are licensed as a municipal kennel, inspected and held to strict and ethical standards but our primary purpose is not breeding, it is hunting, competitive field sports, and showing with dogs that we love spending our lives with as family companions extrodinaire!

Treasures weight is down understandably.  But she is lean, fit, muscular, and strong.  I believe that is why she had such an easy time of whelping.  I don't know if I mentioned it before - she had 3 breech deliveries, completely unassisted - things happened so fast with her we didn't even know it until after the fact. Treasure has puppy food in front of her 24/7 which is supplemented 4 times a day with a variety of combination foods that we prepare for her including:

• Nursing Mother's Pudding (a recipe similar to the rich cream filling for cream puffs)
• Yogurt
• Salmon oil
• Natural Brown Rice
• Boiled Chicken
• Chicken Broth

We have been fortunate to find whole chickens on sale so we boil them, pull the meat off, strain and save the broth.

For those of you who are getting a puppy, interested in one, or who just would like to follow the pups development this is where one of J & A's Brittanys "required reading" books comes in handy.  The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete have several chapters devoted to explaining each phase of neo natal puppy growth. In an early post on July 2, 2009 we covered other aspects of pup development and the stimulation which we have already begun  which you may enjoy looking at by clicking here: Pups Early Neurological Stimulation . Each of Treasure and Gibbys pups have their own development page with their picture attached, including any identifying marks, their nicknames, weights, and other important notations.  We are interested about all strengths, weaknesses, development of size, rate of growth etc. in all our Brittanys.

Okay, this is about all I'm going to be able to get in.  Another planet is being heard from!  Take care and God Bless, John, Ann, Treasure, pups and All Things Brittany.

We Proudly Announce The Arrival of...

IF YOU CAN DREAM...
We proudly announce the arrival of 11 beautiful Brittany puppies and the good news that Treasure and all her babies are doing wonderful.  John and I are proud, thrilled, happy and ecstatic for all the right reasons. Treasure whelped on Day 62 of her first breeding.   The first puppy was born at 10:45 a.m. Sunday morning, October 11 and the last puppy was born at 4:30 p.m. that afternoon.  Treasure is taking to the role of motherhood quite naturally.  The whelping was uncomplicated and uneventful - very smooth sailing, graceful and peaceful.  She had no problem and our assistance was very minimal.  All pups are nursing and thriving and are under constant watch by John and I who are taking turns.   The first 72 hours are critical in all litters, but especially so with a large one like this.  They have each gained well over the first 24 hours and mom and pups go to the vets tomorrow.  This litters average birth weight is 8.5 oz.  There will be a lot more to write about in the coming days and pictures and videos will be forthcoming as well.  John and I are completely exhausted but this is so worth it. I'm thankful that he is home because this is the first time we have ever had this many puppies at once and this is definitely a two person litter!  There are 7 males and 4 females.  5 liver and white pups and 6 white and orange pups. Thank you all for your prayers and well wishes - we are grateful to God for watching over one of His lesser creations and He is faithful to protect ALL that concerns those who believe... and we are seeing the evidence once again.  We feel blessed for a multitude of reasons, and are so happy to share this particular joyful occasion with those of you who care about All Things Brittany!  God Bless you, John and Ann, Treasure and pups, and all the crew

Pam and Sam

Waiting to see if Pam and Sam have checked their email lately ;o)

Temperature Watch Continued

98.8 this morning at 8 am.

6:46 PM

Temperature now 99.2

6:46 PM

Temperature now 99.2

Temperature Watch

Tonight's temperature reading will be important. Treasure's temp has been playing the up/down game for a full week but the past 24 hours has dropped by small increments. This morning and noon was the lowest reading so far but it still can go up. I would like to see that it has continued to drop today when I take her temperature later tonight. The slightest variances at this stage are very significant, even 1/10th of a degree matters. This is Day 61 from her first breeding.

Brief update...

Jack and John had a succesful hunt yesterday, and I'm looking up more pheasant recipes! Treasure's temp is still hovering at the same mark, is extremely unsettled, paces and pants and looks for nesting places. Pups movement is very strong but Treasure can't get comfortable enough to stay in one position for very long. Daughter and her family will be in area today so plan to stop in and visit us on their way to apple picking. Cool and overcast, but the foliage is lovely and the sun has peeked out a couple of times. God bless you and yours, John, Ann and All Things Brittany

Day 59 - Spunky as Ever

Treasure has been very playful and quite interesting to observe this morning in a most unusual way.  She finds things to carry around in her mouth.  One of them is a toy similar to a 'bumper' used for retriever training, with green camoflage canvas.  Typically a toy like that would quickly be destuffed but that has not been the case.  We were outside and she approached me with a kidskin work glove which again, she would typically mouth and chew and eventually bury if not discovered in time.  Instead she pranced around the yard with it in her mouth, her tail proudly at 1 o'clock.  Last but not least she discovered a bucket of day old breads and doughnuts intended to scatter for our birds. So she looked quite silly with a big doughnut sticking out of her mouth, it kind of looked as though she had a big goofy smile going on.  She didn't eat the doughnut.  I'm thinking that this is all part of her maternal instincts kicking in, but they haven't quite been turned on all the way so she's stuck in the middle of her playful personality, natural instinct to retrieve, and the nurturing instinct which will soon be released fully. 

She is more antsy today, having a hard time settling down and her puppies are full of energy and movement.  Poor tummy is bulging and her mammary glands are already showing fullness with nipples twice the size as usual.  But Treasure is ever loving and affectionate and I think she's appreciative too of my obvious understanding of what is going on with her. 

I was watching a youtube video of  newborn puppies making sweet little mew sounds. Treasure came and stood up, putting her paws on the desk  and looked towards the screen, cocked her head to the side and was quite interested. 

Temperature is still 'right there' it hasn't gone up and it hasn't gone down.  Day 59 from her first breeding and one thing I know - we should have pups at this time next week!  Stay tuned....God Bless you and yours, John, Ann and all things Brittany.

Day 58 Getting Close

Treasure's temperature is hovering just at/below 100.  I am looking for a steady temperature drop that remains below 100.  Her behavior indicates that she is experiencing great discomfort because of the puppies she is carrying.  She stretches and moans, rests, pants, and is uneasy - yet not extremely anxious as she will become closer to delivering the pups.  Last night I slept in the 'dog house' on the couch to monitor her closely.  John and I have the camera/monitor/walkie talkies connected so we remain in contact with each other. Our vet knows that a litter of pups is due.  As this is her first litter I dare not take anything for granted.  Wish, Treasures mother, delivered her first litter very quickly with little warning.  Treasure looks at me for reassurance when she is experiencing what must be early mild contractions.  This can go on for several days but I hope not for her sake.  I had to make a choice about where to be this afternoon and early evening... there was a club meeting to attend but  the decision was obvious to me that I should remain right here with Treasure.  It's not like I can ask someone to check in on the dogs like we usually do - this is different. 

The pellet stove is running on low heat in kennel, I have my cot, books, bedding, coffee pot, music and of course satellite t.v.  I sit with Treasure and gently massage her tummy often.  She is not usually a needy dog other than enjoying our company.  I mean she doesn't paw insistently for attention and is content to simply be nearby.  Things are different right now though, Treasure seems to find comfort in laying as close to me as possible and pressing her back up against me somehow.  The movement of the pups is strong and is felt on both sides.  It is hard to estimate how many so I won't try.  I just pray for healthy babies, and an uncomplicated whelping for Treasure and for us.  It's a very exciting but very serious time for us here at All Things Brittany and it's important to keep things as quiet and normal as possible here for our first time mother.  I'll do my best to keep the blog current and look forward to when I can post the news that our Treasure has had her first litter!  Remember us in your thoughts and prayers - we'd sure appreciate that.  Take care and God Bless you and yours, John, Ann and ATB

An 8 Week Old Pup - Commentary

J & A's Beannie Dukes Quest

Treasure's full brother - "Beanie" Clukey @ 8 weeks old, 2006

Owned by Darren and Keesha Clukey

An 8 Week Old Pup

Author:  Dave Jones (Thanks, Dave...)

Caly (pronounced as cal - ee )
She's only 8 weeks old, pointing and running bigger than you'd expect for the age! How can that be? Just the thought of her developing into a great gun dog is thrilling to me. She conjures up old memories of what has been and what will be. What can I expect from this wonderful Brittany pup? Love, attention, quiet days afield and fireside memories. Memories of our 'oneness', of old friends, of days that pass too quickly.

A whole world is ahead for the tiny puppy. Imagine how this unguided creature would fair without my careful guidance? I have a huge responsibility that makes normal duties such as her safety and welfare pale in comparison. I shall take her afield and have pleasant memories with her. She will challenge me but I will know that in the end, we will merge...we will become a team. I shall endeavor to properly introduce my young charge with all that is good. I will hold her and comfort her when she becomes sick, injured and old - I know this will happen and I will be there. I will always be there for her. It is my job as her master to be there. I do not take this responsibility lightly.

Many breeders before me have taken this charge and carried it out dutifully. How many countless hours afield have her ancestors spent afield? Not to mention those 2 legged hunters who have logged lifetimes finding the perfect pup, breeding the best to the best.

I try to imagine way back in time, the time of wolves and prey. Wolves, true hunters who pursued game through wit and physical prowess. I marvel at how man harnessed this primal instinct and formed it into such a magnificent animal.

We will offer one another mutual kinship. On days when she must remain behind, she will send me off with a wistful look in her eye. When I return home, she will greet me as if I truly am the king of the world. I must be royalty....watch how she worships me and loves me unconditionally. I have many faults but she will not know or care.

My new puppy thinks I am the bird god. I give her an exciting wing to attempt to catch in her early days. Watch the intensity on her face! She races to catch it but misses. Within a few flights of the wing, she instinctively begins to creep ever so slowly towards the twitching wing...then POUNCE, "Darn, missed again!" she must think. Now she slows even more and OH, how beautiful!...She has raised her tiny right front paw and paused in mid-step. Her ears are forward, head up and tail high! Why can't I make it last forever? I don't have my camera and even if I did, the picture wouldn't do justice to the moment.

I take my young prospect afield and make sure there are birds to be found.  When no birds are found, she does not blame me. I think she regrets that she has somehow let me down. How can I communicate to her my shortcomings and inability to always take her to where there are birds? This is not 1000 years ago with abundant game, where all one needs is wit and power to catch dinner. We fool our young charge into thinking that we are the ones with wit.

Then, as suddenly as I daydreamed of her skills afield, I think ahead, just briefly, to the day when she will breathe her final breath. God, can we go together? Is there a way that we can at least continue this hunt, this friendship, in the everlasting? Why God, did you create such a magnificent creature that cannot live as long as humans? Am I selfish? I rue the day of her passing. I know I will weep for days, caring only for my own selfish feelings, feelings of having been left behind once again by yet another wonderful dog.

What does a Brittany feel that has lived a full and rewarding life with a devoted master? Are they like some humans who have lived full lives and are ready for the hereafter? I have contemplated what might be their last thoughts and always pray they slip peacefully away with no suffering. I wonder if they think "I have served my master well as he has served me. I would like to hunt just once more in my mind but my body says it's time to go. Thank you master."

"Live today like there's no tomorrow" some say. This is so true when speaking of a companion gun dog. I have books by my fireside that remind me of others great dogs but somehow, no stories compare with my own thoughts of what was and will be....I pale in comparison to real writers for if I were a real writer, I might be able to impart just one ounce of what I feel for my baby, an 8 week old Brittany that is already showing the fires of what will be...

Y'all take care and give your dog a fancy treat for me. - Dave Jones

NOTE: This excellent commentary written by Dave Jones of Chiefs Brittanys is used with his permission. We post it here as a gentle reminder of what lies ahead for those who are anticipating a new Brittany puppy with hopes and dreams of many happy years ahead.  Please do not reproduce or forward this without the express permission of Dave Jones.  Chief's Brittanys® All rights reserved 

Day 55 - Pregnant, Playful, Birdy, & Wise !

We're at Day 55 from our first breeding of Treasure and Gibson.  She is huge and very uncomfortable but still has the enthusiasm and energy of a typical Brittany~!  The morning John and Jack brought home the two pheasants (Opening Day) Treasure thought she'd pull a fast one I think.   John tossed the two dead birds onto the lawn and Treasure quickly ran over to check them out.  Immediately she picked one of the pheasants up and I motioned to John not to say anything; had an idea what she was up to.  Feeling miffed about having to sit this hunting season out I could see her wheels of intelligence turning as she proudly paraded in a full circle and then pranced up to the front porch where I was sitting and delievered the bird right to my hand. I just reached out and she placed it into my palm.  No force retrieve training for this girl, she's a natural!

As if that wasn't enough, today I caught a glimpse out of the corner of my eye what could only be described as a group conspiracy as Pippin, Jack, and Treasure circled the pen where John had cleverly (he thought) hung what was left of the birds after he dressed them out.  I had my camera with me and snapped a few pictures and they are priceless. In the end it was clear to see that Treasure was the ring leader of attempting to poke through the wire and grab the birds.  Fortunately none of the 3 Brits were successful at all, but you gotta give them credit for trying to do it right in front of us!

A little later Treasure and I headed out to the kennel but our flock of homing pigeons had landed down back near the bird pens.  Although Treasure's scenting and pointing instincts have definitely advanced beyond sight pointing she must have still been feeling the sense that something is just missing from her fall routine.  I let her go ahead because she is steady and fairly honest with her birds.  She locked up beautifully even if it was primarily based on the sight of the pigeons 40 feet or so ahead of her.  Walked up around and to her side so she could see me and handled it like it was a bird in the bush..."easy... whoaaaaa girl.... easy..." and the only thing that moved on her were her nostrils and her eye.  We both knew this was like going back to basic yardwork but hey - with her being just about at the end of her pregnancy - we seized the moment for what it was and both enjoyed it thoroughly.  So I took some awesome pictures - because in the field, she is indeed stylish and dead serious about her birds.  She doesn't play around and she would never think of a bird as a toy or a play thing.  So I didn't make a joke out of what is probably going to be her only opportunity to 'hunt'.  I sure wish I had my blank gun with me as I would have flushed the pigeons and handled it like the real deal, knowing she would have held that beautiful point through it all. 

We came back in the house together where I warmed up and shared some venison stew with her.  Just long enough to snap a few more photos and updating the blog.   The pups are making her uncomfortable and I'm doing all I can to help her get through the coming days.  She's stretching and moaning more, has a hard time getting up.  She can't sleep with us in bed as it's not good for her to jumping on or off the furniture, couch bed or otherwise.  She'll be spending her nights in her whelping box most likely from this point on, and I'll be nearby.  God Bless you and yours from John, Ann and All things Brittany

Smells like - Cinnamon!

John just put Prairie Home Companion on the radio, is settled down to listen to the broadcast, Pippin, Treasure and Jack are nearby and our home smells delicious with the aroma of just baked cinnamon rolls and a venison stew that's been simmering all day! (What a long sentence!).  Rainy dreary drizzy day here in Maine, and the woodstove is keeping us warm - too early to turn the oil heat on.  I looked up a timeworn recipe for the yeasty cinnamon rolls and was in the mood to bake them from scratch.  The recipe calls for 50 but I cut them in half, and needless to say many will find their way to the freezer.  This is one of our daughters favorite recipes and we have enjoyed making them together in the past - and will probably do it again in the near future now that I've teased her about them.

Rosie was to spend the day and night in the house but she made the big mistake of not coming when called in favor of digging and rolling in something VERY VERY smelly out back.  I had to grab my raincoat and umbrella and persuade her to come back to the kennel - where she now is, and is highly put out to think I dared take her back there in the first place!

This afternoon while rubbing Treasures tummy I could feel the stronger movement of the puppies and actually see her belly rippling with each little motion.  She's so uncomfortable as we enter her 8th and next to the last week of pregnancy.  We're not going for the x-rays afterall - her pregnancy is definite.   Would rather not put her through any undue stress unless absolutely necessary.  Each day brings us closer to the reality of her first litter of puppies and every day I look forward to this that much more.  Her pups are pretty much all spoken for which is important to us and we have remained in touch with those who are waiting. As this is her first litter availability of pups is limited. It's possible next week at this time we'll be watching for signs of whelping!

Well, Prairie Home Companion Sounds pretty good tonight and looking forward to what Guy Noire, Private Eye as well as the cowbows, Dusty and Lefty are up to!  Take care and God Bless...Counting the Days here at ATB, John, Ann and the entire Brittany Crew!

Hurry Home NashDog son of JackDog!

Pictured above is "Nash", and Steve from a picture taken fall 2008.  Nash was about 9 months old in this picture and had spent the summer at a gun dog training camp in Rangely, Maine.  This year, Nash's "sister" 'Star" spent some time there and did exceptionally well - as evidence by her very first day of bird hunting in NH yesterday with Steve.  Stephanie is great about writing to us with updates and sending lots of great photos to enjoy.  I thought I would post this picture because the whole family is looking forward to Nash's homecoming this week; he's been away for what we all refer to as a 'tune-up'!  Nash was here for the Brittany Club's Fun Day in August and Star was away then.  Star however did enjoy her first field trial last month when Nash was back at training camp.  Soon the whole family will be reunited!  (Nash is out of Molly and Jack's January 2008 litter.)

Jack and John did go back out hunting this morning but came back early.  Poor Jack bumped into electric fencing (the kind that looks like a wide white tape).  As he'd been trained with a remote collar he thought that it was a correction so afterwards would not leave John's side. Rather than try to push Jack he decided it would be better to call it a day and let Jack shake it off - which by the way he's been running around and playing tonight, I'd say he has done already. 

I created a very nice meal if I say so myself of the two pheasants from yesterday.  (We hunt to put food on our table, not for trophy or just the sport of it.)  Stewed the pheasant in an original mixture of orange juice, bacon, onion, celery, peach preserves, herbs, and cream for several hours in the crock pot. When the pheasant was done, I drained it off and set it aside.  Then I took some of the juice it had cooked in and used it for the base of the wild brown rice.  Also used it, with a little more OJ and flour added for a lovely sauce to pour over the pheasant when served.  Last but not least I cooked carrots and served them with the peach preserves also poured over them.  Baked a loaf of oatmeal bread and a squash pie - and needless to say, John and I enjoyed our dinner together! 

Later on he headed off to the gunclub we both belong to and I headed down to the dog house to hang out with the dogs there.  Treasure is quite uncomfortable, and has started to become more restless than usual.  She follows me everywhere and sticks close.  I can feel that the movement of her pups is stronger now.  I wonder how many she will have?  God bless you and yours from John, Ann and All Things Brittany

Maine Bird Hunting Opens

While I was wondering what to 'blog' here this morning, and wrote on Facebook that 'Treasure' was keeping my feet warm, JackDog and John were having success on opening day of bird hunting!  Looks like we are going to have pheasant here for dinner!  Will write more later, but here are a few pictures.