A Dachshund Memorial Day, 2010

"Mousy," a four-month-old Dachshund puppy, is readied for his low level mission by his master, Staff Sergeant Robert E. Brumley, 25th Aerospace Defense Squadron (ADS).  "Mousy" was not too eager for the task at first, but he quickly settled down to save some Vandenberg Air Force Base missilemen and the taxpayers some money.

In honor of Memorial Day, 2010, we bring you this patriotic Dachshund tale.

A PUP NAMED "MOUSY," MISSILES, AND MONEY
by Capt. Thomas D. Boettcher, USAF
Vandenberg Air Force Base, California

Air Force cost reduction monitors at this massive missile installation may give "Mousy," a four-month-old Dachshund, a special achievement award.
The 25th Aerospace Defense Squadron (ADS) had a problem.  One of the unit's jobs is to guide missiles launched from the aerospace complex, and one of their guidance antennas needed a cleaning job.  Hydraulic fluid had coated the tall tower, and it had to come off.
The solution was simple enough, Wash it.  However, the water hose had to be stretched across an active road.  The cleaning was more than a one day task, and since the road could not be closed, the hose would get smashed by heavy trucks.
About that time Mousy strolled by.  His master, Staff Sergeant Robert E. Brumley of the 25th ADS, requested the Dachshund's assistance, so he volunteered.  Being a rather young airman of sorts, Mousy had not yet learned the old soldier's warning, "Don't volunteer for anything."
The next few minutes brought him meaning for that admonition.  As SSgt. Brumley gingerly tied a small string loosely around the pup's neck, Mousy's look reflected his second thoughts.
Nor did he feel any better when the sergeant lifted him down into a tunnel.  "I'm too young for this kind of duty," he must have thought, and his pleading eyes vividly expressed such anxious sentiments.
He quickly relaxed, though, as any good airman would, as soon as he got a better understanding of his mission.
According to the briefing SSgt. Brumley gave him, he was to make a low pass through an 80-foot cable trough that tunneled under the road.  He was to make certain, of course, that he didn't lose the loosely fitting string.
Mousy took the problem in stride.  His low profile was more than a match for the confining task.  With a little encouragement he made his way quickly to the other end of the tunnel, his light but long load trailing behind.
There his master, SSgt. Brumley, was waiting for him.  After untying the string, the Air Force non-commissioned officer lifted the hero into the air to the cheers of the several fellows watching.
It was a great day for Mousy.  He had safely and swiftly piloted his cargo through the dark tunnel.  His was masterful navigation at its best.
Relishing his success, he sat quietly as the airmen then attached the string to a rubber hose.  They then began pulling the string and the attached hose through the tunnel.  Minutes later the hose emerged from the other end.
The water was then turned on, and the airmen began washing down the tower.  The water steadily flowed through the hose safely encased in the tunnel as the trucks roared overhead.
Mousy had saved the $22 hose.  It was a good day for U.S. taxpayers and the four-month-old Dachshund.

via The American Dachshund Magazine, January, 1971.

Woof, WOOF! Don't miss some amazing stories of Dachshunds and the military from the archives:

Dachshund Homecoming

Happy Memorial Day

Veterans Day and Dachshunds

Dachshunds in Pop Culture: Fritz and the "Jane" Cartoon Series

Dachshunds in History: The Saga of Sgt. Wally D. Hund

Dachshunds Reunited with their Dads in the News

Dachshunds and Veterans Day

Dachshunds Teleconferencing with their Dads in Iraq in the News

Dachshunds in History: Mimi, A Most Unpopular Dog During WW2

Memorial Day Dachshund: Meet Gus

Dachshund News Roundup! - story on Vietnam War Veteran Jim Quick and his dachshund

Dachshund News Roundup! - story on Iraq War Veteran Scott MacKenzie and his new rescue boy

Dachshunds in History: Hark! Hark! The Dogs Do Bark!

Dachshunds in History: Dogs of War

Dachshunds and Veterans Day

2010 Annual Hawaii Wiener Derby

Deb McGuire Photography

Thanks so much to our Roving Reporter pals 'Ruby' and 'Nickel' for sending in a recap, photos, and video links from the 2010 Hawaii Wiener Derby, which took place on Saturday at Thomas Square in Honolulu, Hawaii!  They write:

Hi Joey and Maggie!

Just wanted to send you a little snippet of aloha from The 2010 2nd Annual Hawaii Wiener Derby. We had great fun with 104 doxies racing and around 200 doxies in the park for a beautiful sunshiny Honolulu day of sharing our dachshund craziness with each other and other admirers at the Hawaiian Humane Society Game Day. Wish you guys coulda come!

Mahalos and happy anniversary!
Ruby and Nickel 

Heat Two by youtuber dnachef.

Thanks again to our roving reporters 'Ruby' and 'Nickel!'  Too cute.  To say that we're jealous of your beautiful tropical weather is a bit of an understatement, really.

Rainbow Wins Second Place in the Bissell Most Valuable Pet Contest

We're pretty sure that you remember 'Rainbow,' the beautiful chocolate dappled longhair who was paralyzed, yet held captive as a breeder dog?  Boy has her life turned around for the better - thanks to Diamond Dachshund Rescue out of Texas.  Here's Rainbow now with her forever human, Holly Hirshberg, who entered her in Bissell Vacuum's Most Valuable Pet online contest. While Rainbow came in second place to a cat (a cat?!), her picture will be on future Bissell vacuum cleaner products, and a $5,000 donation will be given to Diamond Dachshund Rescue.  Wow!  Read all about it at My San Antonio.  We're so proud of you Rainbow!

Keep up with Rainbow on her Facebook Page.

Thanks to our pals 'Peaches' and 'Piper' for the story tip!

Just Say Yes

Thanks so much to Isla Edwards for sending in the link to the clean version of this video by UK funnyman Russell Brand for his fictional band 'Infant Sorrow.'  We posted a link to the dirty version on Brand's site a few weeks ago, but this is much more suitable for prime time viewing.  Thankfully the Dachshund wasn't censored!  Brand's new movie Get Him To The Greek opens this Friday. 

'The Long and Short of it All' Turns Three Years Old

It's our anniversary - third to be exact!  Who knew we would still be blogging about Dachshund news, art, history, and popular culture three years after our very first post on Monday, May 28th, 2007?! 
Every year as we reach this milestone we tell ourselves that this is the time we are going to stop blogging - what else can be said that hasn't been said, what news story can be posted which isn't similar to something which has already happened, do we even have any more Dachshund jokes left to share?  But as diverse as our lovable Dachshund companions themselves, the stories continue to be amazing - whether outrageous, hilarious, heartbreaking, or just lovable - all thanks to the beautiful dogs who fill our lives with joy every single day.
Thank you to all our loyal readers, commentors, and contributors - we couldn't do it without you.  We've made some real friends in this community, and we hope you have too.  So as our little stubby paws frantically finish typing post # 1,879, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for sticking with us over the years. 

Yours in Dachshund Love,
Joey and Maggie....

Jurassic Bark

Fasten your seat belts, it's WEINER TALES: Episode 04: Jurassic Bark. In this installment by kovachentertainment, our heroes 'Sammy' and 'Ginger' visit Grandma's house, where the Dinosaur lives!

Good Samaritans Give Puppy To Family Who Lost Their Dachshund In Burglary

Just when you're thinking "stop the world, I want to get off," you hear about fine people who let a Kentwood, Michigan family pick out a new puppy after their Dachshund was senselessly killed in a home invasion. 
"It just gets you inside just the love that total strangers so to be willing to give it to us it just touches my heart. I thank God for people like that," the family said.
Read more at WZZM13.

Wirehair Wednesday: Nine Puppies Born-To-Track

Photo:  born-to-track puppy journal

If you can stand seeing anything so cute, get ready to meet 'Keena' and her 9 (NINE!) little puppies, which were born last Saturday.  Thanks so much to Jean Siska for sending in the link.  She writes:  

Dear Joey and Maggie,

There’s a new batch of pups to follow at born-to-track puppies.

Their one day old video is up now! Too cute! 
 
 
(Don't miss that video!)

This Cuban Life

When I walk through Old Havana, I don’t feel as free as I’d like to be. It’s my city and my country; however there are simple things I can’t do.
Though I’m a writer, I can’t enter the Cuban Book Institute, located in the Palacio del Segundo Cabo, without leaving my ID at the door and picking up a pass. However, if I were a foreigner, I’d have free access to not only walk around without anyone wondering where I was going. Moreover, I’d also be able take pictures of the beautiful home which the Institute serves as.
Since I’m Cuban, I’m not allowed to snap pictures of my compatriots who choose to make their living offering themselves in the street (by telling fortunes, demonstrating the abilities of their pets or simply posing with a cigar in their mouth and a red flower in their hair).
Some cover their faces with fans while others argue with me telling me I can’t take their pictures if I don’t pay them. That was the case of the gentleman who makes his three Dachshunds —dressed as people— sit or stand (according to his whim).

The Limitations of Being Cuban by Irina Echarry at Havana Times.

Ouch! Dachshund Vs. Porcupine

We'd fathom to guess that the porcupine won out over this Brazilian red smooth. Hopefully they were just making a pit stop at the local pet supply store on the way to see the veterinarian.  Can any of our Brazilian or Portuguese friends translate for us?  Video by youtuber INSPOL.

Vintage Dachshund Adventures

April 10, 1960:  In this fine photo from Roto News Service, Dachshunds fly on Flying Tiger Line coast to coast from New York to Hollywood for a TV Show.

A Dachshund in Brooklyn

Excellent.  We would love to hang out with 'Pascal Marcel.'  By Vimeo-er Justine Jablonska. 

Those Special Dachshunds: Meet Toby!

Thanks so much to Stacey Lean for writing in to introduce us to her newest bundle of joy, 'Toby!'  This really makes our day.  Without any further ado.....

Dear Joey and Maggie,

We just wanted to write and say how much we enjoy your blog and introduce you to one of your new readers! Last week my fiance and I brought Toby, a 14 week old male long haired Dachshund, into our family. Two years ago, the Dachshund I had grown up with passed away. Her name was Minnie and she was 17 years old. We have missed her greatly, but now thanks to Toby we are once again feeling the joys of having a special Dachshund in our lives!

When Toby was a baby and still with the breeder, he was out in the backyard and was bitten on the face by a copperhead snake! He made a miraculous recovery and is doing great now, with nothing to show for it but a scar of bravery on the right side of his muzzle.

Attached is a picture of Toby in his makeshift bed at our garage sale yesterday. We were trying to sell that strange pillow with the feathers on it, but Toby repeatedly stole it from the garage sale and dragged it off to his bed to sleep with it. We have no idea why he likes it so much, but we ended up letting him keep it.

Crazy Man Attacks Dachshund With Axe

We don't normally post such horrid news stories, but handsome Wichita, Kansas, black and tan 'Weenie' appears to be doing fine after the attack.  Although the veterinarians treating him had recommended euthanasia, Weenie surprised everyone yesterday by jumping out of bed, ready to move forward with his little life.  Via Kake 10.com.

Future Dachshund Lovers of America

Meet 11-year-old Hunter Miller, and his handsome red shaded longhair 'Rex,' who hail from Cape Girardeau, Missouri.  Hunter just turned 11, and instead of having a big birthday bash at his home on Saturday, he wanted to have it at the local humane society, with donations for the shelter instead of presents!  He sent out over 80 invitations and invited over 400 of his facebook friends to donate in honor of his birthday.  Excerpt from the Southeast Missourian:

Miller and his mother help out at the Humane Society almost every Saturday by playing with the animals, taking them for walks, cleaning out pens and taking out trash.
Miller has two dogs, one of which was adopted from the Humane Society about a year ago, and a cat at home. He also takes care of several stray cats at his father's farm in Advance, Missouri. 
"Whenever you feel bad, they make you feel better," Miller said about his pets. "Even if they don't like what you are doing, they love you forever."

Read all about this young man on a mission at the Southeast Missourian.

Mutt Mania!

'Chili Dog' (center) pulls ahead of 'Dexter' (left) and 'Mack Brown' to win the final round of wiener dog racing during Mutt Mania, Saturday, May 22, 2010 at the Longview Fairgrounds in Longview, Texas.  Way to go Chili Dog!  The day-long event was sponsored by the local humane society, and featured pet adoptions, microchipping, wiener dog races and vendors with pet supplies. Kiddie swimming pools also were set up for dogs to cool off.   Read all about the event, and see more Dachshund photos at the Longview News-Jounal.

Dachshund U.N. - Video From Week Two

The second session of Dachshund U.N. took place on Saturday, May 22nd.  We're hoping that they solve all the world's problems by the time they convene for the final time next weekend.  Thanks to youtuber RobotManGreg for the video. He notes:  Dachshund U.N. A performance and architectural installation by Bennett Miller at Melbourne 2010 Next Wave Festival, Australia.  A scale replica of former U.N. office in Geneva, Switzerland, on the site of Australia's first Parliament: Royal Exhibition Building.

Related:  Dachshund U.N. Photos and Video

Related:  Dachshunds United for Human Rights

Lost and Found and Lost and Found

Meet pretty red smooth rescue 'Winnie,' her human Sarah DeCantis (left), and Winnie's recent foster mom.  These folks hail near Scranton, Pennsylvania.  Winnie, a 3-year-old puppy mill rescue, went missing last week when a loud noise had startled her.  A group of kids had found Winnie and contacted Ms. DeCantis, only to prematurely give the dog to another woman who claimed that Winnie was hers. 
After hundreds of fliers were posted and the story appeared in the paper, the woman who had taken Winnie contacted Ms. DeCantis, saying it was never her intention to keep her. 
Read all about the happy reunion and see several nice photos at the Times-Tribune.

Welcome home (finally!) Winnie!

Dachshund Love Stories

Meet 'Sammy Davis,' Wienerschnitzel Wiener Champion, and his human Patrick Major, who hail from Pleasanton, California.    Mr. Major was suffering from failing kidneys and undergoing dialysis when Sammy came into his life.  "Sammy Davis means life, love, and longevity to me," says Mr. Major.
If you have a few minutes to spare, you don't want to miss the incredible slide show and story about the special bond these two share.  Sammy Davis saved his life.  Read all about it at The Oakland Tribune.

Keep up with Sammy Davis at his very own website.

Related:  2007 Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals Winner:  Sammy Davis

American Idol Contestant Casey James and the Silver Dachshund

"Casey James signed my little silver Dachshund!"  Those were the words we heard on American Idol on Wednesday night when contestant Casey James visited his home town of Cool, Texas.  Apparently a woman had him sign the rump of her dappled Dachshund puppy.  May it never be washed.  Casey James, who nearly incites women to throw their panties onstage, has been on of our favorites this year, but was voted off later in the show, leaving room for our own home town hero, Lee DeWyze to take the win against Crystal Bowersox. 
If Lee wins, maybe we'll track him down and have him sign Maggie's silky smooth belly.

Noted Dachshund Author, Breeder, Judge Dorothy O. "Dee" Hutchinson Passes

Humble thanks to Helen Paradise for sending in the unfortunate news of the passing of Dorothy O. "Dee" Hutchinson - Dachshund author, breeder, and judge.  The hearts of the Dachshund community go out to Mrs. Hutchinson's family and friends.  Helen writes:  I thought you might like to know that one of the great Dachshund show breeders (Rose Farm Dachshunds) and author of The Complete Dachshund and a well know AKC show judge (including six Westminster assignments) has passed away in Connecticut. Below is some of the information on her, her life, book and one of the Best in Show winners one of her dogs had sired. The death notice is from the Greenwich times. I am also attaching her photograph. Those of us in the Dachshund world have lost a great lady who will never be replaced.

Thank you,
Helen Paradise
 
DOROTHY "DEE" O. HUTCHINSON died in peace at home on May 15, 2010. She was 71. Born in Boston, Mass., and raised in Greenwich. Dee graduated from the Low-Heywood School in Stamford, after which she married her lifelong mate and best friend, the late Bruce O. Hutchinson. Dee and Bruce had lived in Pound Ridge, N.Y. for 30 years before moving to Westbrook in 1998. Dee enjoyed an admirable career as a noted and respected breeder of Rose Farm Dachshunds. She was a valuable member of the Greenwich Kennel Club, the Dachshund Club of America, she served for many years as a delegate to the AKC and she was an irreplaceable mentor to countless dog enthusiasts. She spent more than 30 years honing her skills as an AKC judge and in 2001, she was appointed the title of All Breed Judge. She earned a reputation as a renowned international judge and she had the honor to judge groups at both The Westminster Kennel Club as well as the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. She was a member of the Indian Harbor Yacht Club in Greenwich, CT and Old Lyme Country Club. Dee is survived by her children, Nancy H. DeLorenzo of Middle Grove, N.Y., Sandra O. Gray of Annandale, N.J., the late John O. Hutchinson and her twin sister, Katherine Brown of Sarasota, Fla. She was the proud grandmother of six and she had one great-grandson. A celebration of her life will be held at Old Lyme Country Club, 40 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme, CT on Friday, May 21 at 1 p.m. Arrangements by Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook.
 
Dorothy O. Hutchinson, of Westbrook, Connecticut, the daughter of Dachshund breeder Nancy Onthank, was born into the sport of dogs. As the breeder of well over a hundred Dachshund champions in all coats and both sizes, Mrs. Hutchinson has kept her mother's Rose Farm kennel name alive and well. In addition to her famous Dachshunds, she has owned several other breeds.
An AKC judge since 1973, Mrs. Hutchinson is approved to judge all breeds. She has judged in forty-six of the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and thirteen foreign countries. Of her six Westminster assignments, she recalls her judging of the Hound Group in 1995 as her most memorable moment on the famous green carpet.
Mrs. Hutchinson is a life member of the Dachshund Club of America and has served the club as a board member and AKC delegate. She is also a longtime member of the Greenwich Kennel Club and spent nearly twenty years as the club's chairman.
The Complete Dachshund, published by Howell Books in 1998, was co-written by Mrs. Hutchinson and her husband, Bruce. The Hutchinsons have two daughters and six grandchildren. Between judging assignments, Mrs. Hutchinson enjoys skiing and sailing.


Feb. 11th 2008 Westminster Best of Breed: Smooth Dachshund

Ch Brodny Schoolhouse Rocketman
Sex: Dog
AKC: HP 03886603
Date of Birth: January 02, 2003
Breeder: Judy Anderson & Fred Vogel & Carol Vogel & Kaye Ladd
Sire: Ch Rose Farms Will He Be Good SS
Dam: Ch Schoolhouse Laddland Letsfly
Owner: Donna Caporale & Joshua Caporale & Carol L Vogel & Fred R Vogel

Has John Travolta and Kelly Preston's Dachshund Been Killed?

Our hearts go out to the Travolta family - according to the Bangor Daily News out of Bangor, Maine, two dogs that belonged to actor John Travolta and his family were accidentally struck and killed on the tarmac early last Thursday morning by an employee at Bangor International Airport.  Here's an excerpt:

An e-mail sent late last week by Bangor Interim City Manager Bob Farrar to the nine city councilors, which was obtained by the Bangor Daily News, confirmed the accident.
Asked to verify the details contained in that e-mail, the city released this statement:
“At approximately 1 a.m. on Thursday, May 13, 2010, an airplane carrying members of the John Travolta family landed at BIA. While there, two small dogs were taken for a walk by someone who is not a family member. An airport service pickup truck was approaching the airplane to service the airplane and did not see the dogs. Unfortunately, the dogs were struck and killed. The airport is investigating the accident. Out of respect for the family’s privacy the city will make no further comment.”
It’s unclear whether any charges would be filed against the employee, who has not been named. Airport Director Rebecca Hupp also didn’t know whether the dogs were on leashes or not or what breed of dogs they were. The assistant who was walking the dogs was unharmed. The plane landed and was serviced at the main domestic terminal section of BIA.

All we have heard outside of this is that a spokesman for the family has said that the dogs were indeed on leashes.
Looking back to Celebrity Dachshund Watch:  John Travolta and Kelly Preston, the Travoltas had 3 dogs in 2008:  a Rhodesian Ridgeback, a Cocker Spaniel, and a Dachshund named 'Prudence.'

In somewhat brighter news, the Travoltas are expecting a new human addition to their family.

Wirehair Wednesdays

With the exception of jaw, eyebrows, and ears, the whole body is covered with a uniform tight, short, thick, rough, hard, outer coat but with finer, somewhat softer, shorter hairs (undercoat) everywhere distributed between the coarser hairs. The absence of an undercoat is a fault.  AKC Wirehaired Dachshund Standard.

Vintage 1940's photo source unknown.

Australian Dachshund Survives Deadly Brown Snake Encounter

Meet pretty smooth show dog 'Tinsel,' and her human Melissa Purich, who hail from Holtze, an outer rural area of Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia.  The area is apparently just crawling with deadly snakes.  Ms. Purich's mother had just lost 3 baby goats to monster pythons when Tinsel, who lived nearby, had a tussle with a deadly Brown snake.  Excerpt from ntnews:

"Last Monday afternoon I heard a commotion in my front garden amongst my dogs," she said.
"Knowing instantly there was trouble, I rushed over, screaming to my husband Steve Russell to follow.
"There we found my champion show dachshund Tinsel lying collapsed on the ground with her tongue hanging out.
"We noticed the dead and mutilated snake close by."
Both Tinsel and the snake were taken to the Palmerston Veterinary Hospital where Dr Ian Gurry confirmed it was a western brown snake and began Tinsel on three anti-venom injections over nine hours.
Ms Purich said Tinsel made a miraculous recovery.
"It appeared that she was bitten a number of times," she said.
"After three days of treatment and intensive care by Ian's wife, Dr Susan Gurry at Parap, Tinsel made a remarkable recovery after being very close to death.
Ms Purich said Tinsel had qualified for the Best in Show just days before the ordeal.
"Tinsel has proven that for such a little dog she has a lot of fight in her, whether it be fighting snakes or fighting off the competition in the show ring."

Glad to hear that Tinsel is doing so well after her troubling ordeal.  Read more at ntnews.

Vintage Dachshund Fun: I Only Have Eyes For You

Thanks so much to our pal 'Poncho' for writing in with this nice little vintage Dachshund gem from End Records.  He writes:

Dear Joey and Maggie:


While searching for 45 rpm art to add to the iTunes profile of the oldie "I Only Have Eyes For You" by the Flamingos... look what turned up.


Thought you'd want to have a look. Oh, here's me with a toy in the big bed as Dad was heading to work a few days ago:


Love the blog.
Poncho



Let's have a listen.

Bundle Of Joy

Sometimes after we watch a video our jaws drop and we're completely woofless. Such is the case with with this darkly funny new video from abetoons: The twisted dachshund knows there's only room for one baby, and dreams-up a way to exterminate the competition. Its hard to predict who will end up in the dog house, and who will win Mom and Dads hearts, in Bundle of Joy.

In related video news, you may like the Dachshund who appears in a new not-safe-for-work video by UK funnyman Russell Brand for his fictional band Infant Sorrow.  This will be on the soundtrack of Brand's new film Get Him To The Greek.  Called 'Just Say Yes,' it can be seen at Mr. Brand's official site.

Dachshund U.N. Photos and Video

If there's one thing we love about reporting Dachshund news, it's events like this. Dachshund U.N. has begun in Melbourne, Australia!  Dachshunds are seen here in these photos by Getty Images during a performance and art installation titled 'Dachshund U.N.' at the Melbourne Museum on May 15, 2010 in Melbourne, Australia. The installation by Perth artist Bennett Miller (also seen in a few of the photos), is part of the Next Wave Festival and sees 47 Dachshunds representing national delegates taking part in a meeting of the United Nations' Commission on Human Rights, "examining the role of the United Nations as a risk management organization."

How well trained they all are to sit and stay for photos!  The installation will run for two more Saturdays.  If you live near Melbourne, don't miss it!  Find out more at Next Wave.

Related:  Dachshunds United for Human Rights



Here's a A Sneak Peek Behind the Scenes of Dachshund U.N.

Guess Who Won a "Clean Your Plate" Contest?!

Why, 'Sadie' the red smooth Dachshund did, that's who!  Ruth Ann Heiner, of Dover Township, Pennsylvania, laughs as Sadie, her 4-year-old Dachshund, devours a sweet potato during the 'clean your plate' contest at Sunday's annual Dog's Day in the Park. Sadie was declared a winner after also devouring food such as a hot dog, celery, carrots, cheese and lemon. (Daily Record/Sunday News - Paul Kuehnel)

Sadie, we'd love the chance to go head to head with ya in an eating contest.  Congrats!

Photos: MidWest Dachshund Rescue Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser

We had a great time yesterday at MidWest Dachshund Rescue's Annual Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser at The Dog Spot in Downers Grove, Illinois.  There were several hundred Dachshunds in attendance!  There were free hot dogs, a costume contest with great prizes, like restaurant gift certificates, a silent auction, which included nice hand-made dog beds, Dachshund throws, pillows, Cubs and Sox jackets, a $300 basket of booze(!) and at least a hundred raffles including mp3 players, tickets to Cubs and Sox games, restaurant gift certificates, goodie baskets, theatre and opera tickets, a laptop computer, hotel stays, Disney tickets, handmade Dachshund quilts, the list goes on and on.  If you live in the MidWest and couldn't make this year's event, don't miss it next year!
Thanks to MWDR for such a great time.  Hoping lots of money was raised to help Dachshunds in need.

That first photo of Maggie was our favorite of the day.  Dad was taking a photo of the Dachshunds in the background when Maggie sat up in the middle of the photo - she's a Dachshund photo CRASHER!

Related:  Mark Your Calendars:  Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser and Doxie Social

Mixing Things Up A Bit

So we take a week off for a little vacation, and oddly the Dachshund news is a little sparse while we're gone - maybe everyone was busy celebrating Mother's Day with their Dachshund Moms?   Regardless, we're always happy to share some news stories with our Dachshund mix cousins, like this handsome little guy, a Dachshund-Jack Russel mix named 'Paco' who made headlines this week after Delta airlines lost him in Mexico City.  His humans had just found him as a stray in Puerto Vallarta, vetted him, and was in the process of transporting him back with them to their home in Canada.  Delta initially offered the couple a $200 refund in fees paid for Paco -- as a credit toward a future flight on Delta.  Nice.  "I think that this is completely absurd, as there is no chance of me flying with Delta Air Lines again," his human said.  Delta has offered additional compensations and apologies after the story broke on Consumerist.com.  Source.

How safe is your pet while flying?  Don't miss the troubling Airline Animal Incident Reports at Third Ammendment.com.

Meanwhile, in the Hero department, meet 'Riki,' a three-year-old Dachshund-Pomeranian mix who hails from Olympia, Washington.  He and his human came home on Tuesday to find a burglar breaking one of the windows, when little Riki went into action, chasing the burglar out of the house and down the street!  Way to go Riki!   The city's K9 unit was dispatched and led police to the perp.  Mitzi Lisle, Riki's human, was able to recover her belongings.  “Everyone on the block is calling him killer,” Lisle said Wednesday.

Read more at the News Tribune.



And finally, thank Dog it's Friday, and if you're like us, you're jumping for joy.  So is 'Burt,' seen here, a Dachshund-Rottweiler mix who, according to his human, holds the Long-Jump World Title for his weight class. At 6 seconds into the video clip you can see his world-renown 15-Footer!   Might as well jump, as they say.  Have a great Friday.

Finding Dachshund Love

For your dose of Friday Dachshund Cute, we offer up lucky red smooth 'Gus,' and his brand new human, 3-year-old Sean Lewis, who hail near Kitsap, Washington.  Gus was one of 34 small dogs transported to Washington from an over-crowded Porterville, California shelter with a high euthanization rate.  Excerpt from the Kitsap Sun:

Three-year-old Sean Lewis found a new best friend Monday when he met Gus.
The dachshund didn’t have to do much to win over the boy and his mom, Amber Brand. As soon as they took the dog to a pen at the Kitsap Humane Society to play, they knew he would be joining their family.
Sean may think he chose Gus to be the family’s newest pet, but based on the sloppy dog kisses it looked more like Gus chose him.
When Brand heard the humane society was receiving a handful of small dogs over the weekend, including possibly a dachshund, she wanted to be there Monday morning to see the selection. Not knowing what she’d find, she only shared her plans with Sean on their way to the shelter — she didn’t want to disappoint her older children if things didn’t work out.
Luckily they arrived before someone else could claim Gus.

Read more about Gus, see more photos, and find out more about the transport at the Kitsap Sun.  Welcome home Gus!

The Vintage May Dachshund

Now that's enough little Gretchen, I've got flowers to arrange!

Calling All Girls, May 1962

Vintage Dachshund Pride

Well aren't you proud of your Dachshund?

Vintage photo circa 1912; source unknown.

A Note From Joey and Maggie: Please Stand By

We're gonna go visit Grandma and Grandpa for a while, but we'll be back in a few days.  In the meantime, we hope we've left some yummy treats in the posts below.  Have a great Mother's Day, and give your Doxie Momma a BIG WET KISS!

Yours in Dachshund Love,

Joey and Maggie....

Spring 2010

Dachshunds in Art: Elliott Erwitt

Who?  Elliott Erwitt (b. 26 July 1928 Paris, France) is an advertising and documentary photographer known for his black and white candid shots of ironic and absurd situations within everyday settings -- the master of the "indecisive moment".  Some of his photos have been newly released, like this beautiful little gem, and Dog Art Today has the scoop:

No words can express how much I love this newly released photo by Elliott Erwitt, one of the greatest photographers of the 20th and 21st century. The fact that Erwitt has devoted some of his extraordinary talent to photographing dogs, makes him, IMO, the greatest dog photographer ever.
His photographs are exceptional because he looks at life with fresh eyes every time he takes a shot.

Find out how you can win a copy of one of his books via Twitter at Dog Art Today.

News From Russia: A Diving Dachshund!

And we thought the Sadistic Canine Shower Machines from the Future were over the top.  Seeing this, it appears that the Russians have out done the Japanese!  Via the Russian News & Information Agency RIA Novosti


The Diver Training Center at Vladivostok Maritime College in Vladivostok, Russia carried out an unusual experiment for the 15th anniversary of the college. The divers persuaded the center’s director, Sergei Gorbunov, to send his pet dachshund, Boniface, into the depths. The dog-motivated divers made a striped diving suit for Bonnie, as they fondly call the dog. They made a square mask out of Plexiglas thinking the dog may want to breathe under water.


Bonnie used just one air bottle during the diving. The bottle was attached to the dog’s belly allowing Boniface to not just immerse, but to actually swim under the water as well.


According to the center’s canine experimentalists, Boniface felt good during the fur-raising effort, which some hasten to label a success. Nevertheless an offshore dive may be premature. Bonnie will have to dive in a special swimming pool before he can try diving in the open sea.


The staff will train the diver dog for the All-Russian Underwater Hunting Tournament to take place in September.

A Special Dachshund from the Last Frontier: Meet Rebel!

Like Marlon Brando said in The Wild Ones after a female dance partner questions him "Hey, Johnny, What are you rebelling against?"  And Brando replies:  "What've you got?"  This is what we imagine life is like with this handsome heroic smooth chocolate guy named 'Rebel.'  Thanks to Meghan and Bruce for sending in such nice photos.  They write:

Dear Maggie and Joey,

I wanted to write to introduce you to one of your faithful readers from the far north. Rebel joined our family two years ago from the wonderful Colorado Dachshund Rescue. Soon after his adoption we moved north, to the emerald isle of Kodiak, Alaska. Rebel spent a year exploring beaches and dodging eagles before we made a move to the big city of Anchorage. Rebel enjoys exploring the extensive trails system around town, barking at moose, and follows sunbeams around the house. As we say, he loves a good wienie roast.

Thanks for all of the great stories, videos, and pictures on the blog - we Dachshundists of the north can't get enough!

(click any photo to enlarge and admire)

Mini Dachshund Dislikes Southern Heritage

This red smooth gal named 'Adele' cracks us up! Thanks so much to her human, Lauren Shaver, of Richmond, Virginia, for sending in the video. She writes:

Dear Joey and Maggie,

My five year old mini dachshund, Adele, has grown up in Richmond, VA her entire life. It's a city where there are countless monuments that pay homage to confederate soldiers from the Civil War and other history book notables. Whether walking or driving, she has always filled with instant, unrelenting rage whenever passing any one of this historical monuments. And like I said, there are a lot of these around the city. Sometimes I have to drive the "scenic route" with Adele in the car--just to avoid the mayhem. Our friends joke that she must've been a Union soldier in her previous life.

Last weekend, my husband and I caught her in action on video. She is completely absurd and we love her for it!

Mark Your Calendars: Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser and Doxie Social

If you live in the MidWest, you're not going to want to miss MidWest Dachshund Rescue's Annual Fundraiser: The Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser and Doxie Social.  We'll be there, so be sure and give us a woof if you spot us!  Here are the details, this is gonna be fun:

When:  May 15, 2010...Registration now open
What:  The Cross Town Bark Around Fundraiser and Doxie Social
Where:  The Dog Spot, 909 Ogden Ave.,Downers Grove, IL
1:00-4:00

Win great raffle prizes and silent auction items such as overnight stay at great hotels, Cubs and Sox tickets, Disney theme park tickets, theater tickets, sports memorabilia, restaurant gift certificates, custom made dog beds, one of a kind doxie items and much more.

Activities include:
**Judged doxie costume contest-Best costume, most original and best sports outfit.
**Photographer with an Oscar Mayer Wiener pedal car
**50/50 raffle
**Caricature Artist
**One of a kind dog items for sale
**Bake Sale

Open to all doxies that are up to date on vaccinations and are spay/neutered. Don't own a doxie, you are still welcome to attend!
Registration now open- contact Lori at L.Biesboer@comcast.net

Check out these Cubs and Sox goodies

Throws, beds, and snuggle sacks fit for a Wiener Dog

 Beautiful Dachshund quilts

Dachshund Public Service Announcement

We interrupt our regular scheduled programming for this dachshund public service announcement from Dixie Dachshund Rescue. 

Related:  A Dachshund Public Service Announcement From C2CDR

Wirehair Wednesdays

The Wirehaired Dachshund is a relatively recent development when compared to the Smooths and Longhairs.  Whereas these two varieties were bred to go to ground after badgers and other burrowing game, the Wirehairs' tough coat was developed to protect it as it trailed game through the thickets and dense undergrowth in the forests.  Source:  The Dachshund:  A Dog for Town and Country, Ann Gordon. 

Photo:  circa 1941, source unknown.

A Day In The Life of Forest the Dachshund

Black and tan longhair dappled 'Forest' seems to have all his priorities straight. Via youtuber ForestKisses.

Dachshunds and Cancer: We're Glad to Be at the Bottom of the List

The Wall Street Journal released a great little article yesterday detailing the risks of cancer in various breeds of dogs.  The news isn't great for Goldens, Boxers, Rotties, and Bernese Mountain Dogs, but with our already well-documented IVDD issues, this is one list we're glad to be at the bottom of - not that we are risk-free regardless.  Excerpt from the Wall Street Journal:

Early warning signs include lumps or masses on or under the skin; which could be signs of mass cell tumors; lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in breathing or eating habits that could signal lymphoma; lameness or stiffness could indicate osteosarcoma. But hemangiosarcomas have typically metastasized long before they are detected.

Susceptible Breeds
About 1 in 3 dogs die of cancer, about the same rate as people. Some breeds, however, are more susceptible than others. Here are the breeds with highest to lowest incidences of cancer. (Average life expectancy shown in parentheses.)


Highest Risk
Boxer (10½ years)
Golden retriever (12)
Rottweiler (10)
Bernese mountain dog (8)

High Risk
Boston terrier (13 years)
English bulldog (8)
Scottish terrier (13)
Cocker spaniel (12)

Average Risk
Irish setter (12 years)
Schnauzer (standard 12; miniature 15)
Labrador retriever (12½)
Mixed Breed

Lower Risk
Beagle (13 years)
Poodle (standard 12; miniature 15)
Collie (12)
Dachshund (15 1/2)

Read all of this great little article, including tips on how to prevent your dog from getting cancer at the Wall Street Journal.

Sadistic Canine Shower Machines From the Future

Do you have any last words before we turn it on? Red longhair 'Laki' takes a canine shower machine called Aqua for test rinse at a pet show in Makuhari, Japan on Sunday.

This Frenchie named 'Makaron' shows off a different model.
You humans have gone too far this time. 

Dachshund Saved By Throat Surgery Used On Humans

Human Phyllis Newman said the throat surgery saved her Dachshund, Mojito.

Congratulations to one-year-old red longhair piebald 'Mojito,' who now has a new outlook on life thanks to some great innovative surgery which has allowed him to swallow normally.  Excerpt from CBS 13 out of Sacramento, California:

A team of doctors at the UC Davis Veterinarian School and School of Medicine diagnosed Mojito with an abnormal throat muscle, making swallowing extremely difficult.
"It got to the point where I would give him a treat and it would take him 14 minutes to swallow," said Phyllis Newman, Mojito's owner.
The doctors from the different schools of medicine teamed up and performed the surgical laser treatment that is often used on people with swallowing problems.
Weeks later, Mojito is spry and now able to eat normally.

Watch the news video at CBS 13.

LIFE'S HARD when you're A FAT DOG

(click photo to enlarge)

You'll never get lucky.  No one wants to have sex with a fat dog. That's the solid premise behind this diet-dog-food ad from Prolam Y&R ad agency in Chile.  Thanks so much to our Portugese pal 'Oscar' for sending this in!

Dash the Dog on Zappos.com

(click image to enlarge)

What happens when you hit a 404 error page on Zappos.com, an online shoe and clothing shop?  This does!  Thanks so much to our pals 'Oscar' and 'Hans' for sending in the link!  They write:


Hi Joey and Maggie!

We hope you are out enjoying Spring. It's been kind of rainy here lately, which has curtailed our walks, but we do enjoy burrowing with Mom during a late-night thunderstorm!

We must be going overboard with our doxie-spotting, because now our friends are even starting to let us know whenever they see a long and low! This link came to us from a good friend. She has dobermans, but we suppose that's a forgivable sin considering she helps us find such cute weenies.

Your friends,
--Oscar and Hans

A Note From Joey and Maggie: Bark in the Park 2010!

Happy Monday!  We're exhausted.  On Friday, Dad took the day off work to take us to the groomers - and after a bath,  a blueberry facial, and getting our nails trimmed, glands expressed, ears cleaned, and a new doo for Maggie, we knew something big was on the horizon.  Saturday was the big day; we got up at 5 AM and participated in our 8th Annual Bark in the Park, a fundraiser for Chicago's Anti-Cruelty Society.  It's a 5K/3.2 mile walk along Chicago's beautiful lakefront.  There were over 3,500 dogs in attendance.  That's a lot of butts to sniff! 
We were part of a team of Dachshunds and friends called Team Hot Dogs, which consisted of about 35 teammates, and together we raised over $16,000 for the Anti-Cruelty Society and took home the team challenge for the fourth year in a row!  We also participated in a sit/stay for 2 minutes to hopefully create a new world record for the most dogs in a sit/stay.
We're still resting up today; the walk was a bit harder this year than in the past - we're getting old at about 9.5 years, so we both hitched a ride in a wagon that was being pulled by one of our Leonberger friends!  Maggie was about 20% into the walk when she decided that she just wasn't going to do it anymore.  Joey held on a little longer, but the quick pace was a little much for him as well this year.  We'll have to take a big shortcut next year. 
Enjoy the Dachshund-centric photos; the last seven are from our Doxie friends Sampson, Tommy Lee, and Gina Marie.  You'll see lots of harnesses from Dachshund Delights.  You may also notice a Dachshund with butterfly wings on - that's 'Molly' with her dapper doxie duds from our pal 'Baxter' and his mom at kalyxcornucopia.