Dog Crates Do you or don't you? What I've learned in the dog community is that everyone has a strong opinion on what they would or wouldn't do or use on a dog. From collars and harnesses to the types of training, sleeping quarters, etc. You name it, we all have an opinion. As I've volunteered for a few years and have fostered many different types of dogs (most of whom I have adopted), I've realized that my opinions have softened quite a bit. The only opinion that will ever stay true is that I am one hundred percent against animal abuse. Regarding types of training, I say it depends on the dog. One of the topics of discussion that I've had at dog parks or just talking to other dog lovers was crate training. To some, it sounds barbaric. "Put a dog in a crate! No way! That is inhumane!" From experience, I can safely say, "No, it's not." I'm not a professional trainer in any sense of the word, so for major behavioral problems, it is always best to seek someone trained in the field. I do, however, have personal familiarity with crate training and it has always worked wonderfully. I believe that some may dive into the misconception that crates are evil is in the way that they have seen some dogs get trained. Yes, if you throw your dog in the crate if and only when he or she is misbehaving, then it can be misconstrued for abuse. If you leave them in a crate all day, every day, that can be mistaken for abuse as well. Helpful Tips About Crate Training Your Puppy or Dog If you train your dog the correct way in a crate, and allow them to roam free most of the time, it can actually be quite comforting to them. Years ago, with one of my dogs, I used a crate to get her through her housebreaking period. Now, she was the first dog I ever had to housebreak, so I did make oodles of mistakes in the beginning. Like anything, however, I learned from my mistakes and moved on. From Start to Present Here are some helpful tips about crate training your puppy or dog. Typically, you'd want to buy the big crate that will fit them when they are full-size, so when you housebreak a dog using crate training, make sure you buy the crate divider that sections off the crate so that your tiny pup only has enough room to comfortably turn around, stretch and sleep. If you get a chance to read my book Finally Home, there's a cute excerpt about how we tried to get away with making our own wooden divider. Let's just say, that didn't work out. What does a divider do? It prevents them from having enough room to relieve themselves and then moving over to the dry spot to go back to sleep. You want to teach them that the only place they relieve themselves is outside. How? Bring them outside every few hours. Young puppies need to go out more often. Try every two hours, then every four hours, etc. As they get older, they can hold it a little longer. Praise them like it's their birthday when they take care of business outside. If they go in the house, only scold them if you catch them in the act. If you yell at them after the fact, they won't understand what it is you are upset about. The fact that they peed on the carpet will be a distant memory for them. Yelling is not necessary in order to scold them. A firm NO will get the point across. In the wild, the alpha dog is a calm one. Dogs won't respect someone who is always yelling as to them, it appears that the person is unstable, very unlike how an alpha should be. Will They Have Accidents in the Crate? It's possible. When you first begin, line the crate with inexpensive towels for them to sleep on, instead of that big expensive bed. Chances are they may chew as well, so make sure they are not chewing the towels. This can prove to be dangerous if they swallow a large piece. Outside of the Crate To save yourself heartache, when you are playing with your pup outside of the crate, do so on your tile floor if possible, versus the carpet. It is much easier to clean up any accidents on the floor. This may be frustrating when you want your pup to watch television with you, but trust me —continually cleaning a carpet gets tiresome! Wait until they have some control first. Exercise Let your pup exercise frequently and sleep often. You don't want to just throw him or her into a cage and forget about them. It's important to socialize them and get them acclimated to live outside of the crate. When they are old enough and have had all of their shots, take them for walks regularly. Get into a routine that they can count on. What About Adult Dogs? If your dog has been in a crate since he or she was a puppy, chances are that they will love it when they are an adult. As they move past the housebreaking stage, reward them with their own dog bed. I would start with the less expensive beds to make sure they don't chew it up. Nothing like buying a $100 bed only to see it in shreds the next day. As they move past the chewing stage, now go for the luxurious bed! It should fit comfortably in the crate and it is a good idea to make sure the cover can come off for cleaning. Your dog should not spend its entire day in the crate. It should only be for short periods of time. The other portion of time, however, leave the crate door open for them. You might be pleasantly surprised to watch your pooch venture in and out as they please. Brandi and my other golden retriever, Buddy Sr. (star of Finally Home) both loved their crates. There were times when I had company visiting and both were tired of the noise. So, they left the room and into their crates they went. When they were done with their naps, they'd re-join the party. There have also been times when I kept the crate right there in the living room with me. Again, if they wanted to be in their own quarters, they would voluntarily go sleep in their crate and come out when they felt like it. How About Crate Punishment? This is an iffy question. Many will say “no way” to this. I say, not really. If you use the crate for punishment, they might begin to think any time they are put in the crate, they are in trouble. However, if your dog is misbehaving, you can give them a time-out in the crate until they calm down. I would do this with kid-gloves, meaning, don't scream at them to get into the crate! The only stipulation is do not let them out if they whine as this will only enforce that whining equals getting what they want. Wait until they are done whining, and then let them out. However, there is a fine line here. After a while of living with me, Buddy Senior knew that if he did something wrong, he better run right to his crate before I even direct him to it. I didn't even have to shut the door. This happened one night after he ran after a cat and onto a busy street. As I frantically called his name, he zipped back, past me, past the open door, past the living room and right into his crate. I didn't have to do a thing! What if They Absolutely Hate Crates? If you have a puppy that hates a crate, that is normal. Don't cater to their whimpering unless, of course something is truly wrong. Fear of Crates If you adopt an adult dog, however, and he or she absolutely loathes the crate, then I would find another method. If it is absolutely necessary for them to be crate trained, then I would do it in very small baby steps. Put them in the crate for only minutes at the time and always associate it with something good whether it is treats, toys or affection. There may be a good reason why they hate crates so take your time with them and increase the time in the crate by only a few minutes at a time. Dogs may even love them so much that their crate is like their very own bedroom and where they want to stay. It's not to be a permanent residence for them, however, as dogs need to move freely, stretch, and be a part of the family. They shouldn't spend most of their life behind bars! Labels: Crate Training Your Puppy or Dog, Dog Training

Just a fun post to break up the day. I think we need these once in a while! Remember When? Sounds like those yearbook entries, doesn't it? I’m now in my fifties. Ouch. When and how did that happen? It truly seems like just yesterday when I was a teenager in high school trying to figure out how the world works. Not much has changed. I still haven't figured it out yet. But, I go on my merry way, consistently thinking, rearranging priorities, and entertaining new hobbies. In the midst of all that, I look back and think, whatever happened to...?  Fill in the blanks. So, here are some things I remember. Let's see if you do too.  Okay, so this is first and foremost: 1. BURRY'S FUDGETOWN COOKIES Fudgetown Cookies-Does anyone remember these things? Unfortunately, I do. And I miss them. Six in a pack, six packs in a box. Whatever happened to them?! 2. Which Witch by Milton Bradley Which Witch-Okay, did anyone have this game other than my sister and I? It was sort of a pop-up board game and also had a chimney. Not sure what went down there.  A marble? A witch maybe? Not sure. Anyone? 3. Rebound Rebound-Not even sure who made this one, but it was a long game. I mean long in length. You threw a marble wrapped in a plastic cover down the board, which bounced off a rubber band and then went around the loop. There were about three scores you could hit, or it would completely fall off. It was a mustard yellow color. Do they even sell this anymore? 4.  Biutoni pita pizzas Biutoni pita pizzas-  I know they have regular ones now. However, they used to have pizza in a pita that you could put in the toaster.  They were delicious (or so I thought back then), quick, and easy to make. Don't eat 'em too soon, or you'll burn your tongue off. 5. Eight-track tape player Eight-track tape player- I can honestly say I don't miss this one bit. Not at all. I even recall the four tapes I had. Journey, Boston, Styx, and Aerosmith. Did they make any more than that for these things? Do kids these days know what they are? 6. Lunch boxes Lunch boxes with a thermos and a pack of Trident or Dentyne gum. Nowadays, you're lucky if you get a thermos. Lunch boxes were decorated with your favorite cartoon characters.    7. Rotary Phones Rotary Phones- Does anyone still have one? Do you recall the frustration if you dialed the seven-digit phone number and then made a mistake?  The horror!  8. Monchichi dolls Monchichi dolls- I really don't miss them at all. But, if you know what they are, you're probably mad at me right now because you're singing the song.  :)  Me too. 9. Encyclopedias Encyclopedias-Real Ones. Not online ones. Gosh, when we did research papers, we had to go through these things page by page, borrow books from the library, and then go back because nine times out of ten, we borrowed the wrong book! Do you remember when we lived like this? Do kids have it easier these days with online encyclopedias? They sure do! 10. Friendship bracelets Friendship bracelets-Now that I love making bracelets, I thought about these. Does anyone recall? I remember they involved safety pins and tiny beads. Then what? How did we put them on a bracelet? Anyone know? So Much More! Let’s not forget pay phones, real film in real cameras, flashcubes, clunky video cameras, polaroids, typewriters that weighed a ton (Ok, so I recently just bought one at an antique store). They still look cool! How about needing two keys for your car, and so much more? Amazingly, we had the room in our house for all of these things! Although, I miss those days, and for those that grew up during that time, it was simpler and a bit more quaint. At least in my opinion! If you can add to this list, please comment. And if you know the answers to my questions, please comment too. Enquiring minds want to know! Well, at least mine does! I apologize if this post made you crave sweet, pizza and are heading out to eat singing old commercial theme songs!

Brush Those Teeth! Since we were all young, our parents have instilled it into our minds—along with our dentists and oral hygiene commercials— that brushing one's teeth is essential.  We took that word as gospel.  We've even been taught to have a morning and evening regimen, which includes flossing and most likely mouthwash.  As technology and research deepens, we've added teeth whiteners, mouth guards, fluoride rinses, electric toothbrushes, water pics, and many other preventative care for our teeth and gums.  While there is the cosmetic benefit of good teeth, more importantly, careful maintenance of teeth and gums is the one thing we can do to prevent health risks. We need to make sure that we emphasize importance of good oral hygiene for dogs!   Poorly maintained teeth can result in headaches, toothaches, throat infections, heart disease, digestive issues and so much more. There is such importance of good oral hygiene for dogs. So, since our furry friends can suffer these same risks, wouldn't it make sense that our dogs have a regimen of their own?   There are many opinions revolving around putting your dog under anesthesia to have a proper dental performed by your veterinarian.  Sometimes, it might be necessary, but there are things you can do to care for your dog's teeth from the moment you bring them into your home.    The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene for Dogs It might be easier to brush their teeth.  Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles along with toothpaste formulated for dogs.  Regular toothpaste can cause health risks to your dog, but there is plenty on the market meant for your furry friend. Just check with your veterinarian first for his recommendations.  I’ve always used this one for my dogs:   Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Poultry Flavor Dog & Cat Toothpaste .  As you might've guessed, they come in beef, salmon, chicken and liver flavor.  I'm sure there are a whole lot more on the market that will satisfy your pup's palate.  From experience, I can say that this has worked for a few of our dogs, and they even line up as soon as they see the toothbrush.  It’s a much different reaction from when they see the ear-cleaning solution! *Please note, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If your dog doesn’t tolerate it, you can talk to your veterinarian about toothpaste, antiseptic enzymatic gels, drops to disperse in their water bowl, on their gums or in their food.  Many of these items do help and if applied daily, can help keep your dog's teeth healthy. Practicing good oral hygiene for your dog will help ensure a healthier and happier pup!

It's time to get away.  It's been a long week.  Work has been grueling, traffic has been horrendous and the weather has put a damper on every outdoor recreational activity you've tried to plan. As you look at your daily planner, you ask yourself, "When is the last time I took a vacation?" You suddenly realize it's been years.  You can barely remember the last time you took your head out of the sand long enough for a gulp of refreshing air. With so many places to choose from, how do you decide?  If you love amusement parks and the heat, of course Disney might be the best place for you.   Looking for a bit of culture, New York City might tickle your fancy.  Key West might be perfect for a potpourri of sun, sand and nightlife.  If you love the outdoors, however, Las Vegas might be the perfect destination, specifically, Ten Places to Visit in Las Vegas Mount Charleston Mount Charleston for adventurers or Lake Las Vegas, for those looking for a more relaxing getaway. Tucked away only thirty- forty minutes from the strip is land of  mountains, pine trees, trails and even a ski resort for the colder months. Nestled in the heart of Vegas is a hidden getaway perfect for spending time relaxing, enjoying all that nature has to offer.  It's also nothing like what the television shows depict as Vegas. Believe it or not, there is a world beyond The Strip and it is definitely worth seeing. If you love to hike, there are numerous trails. Are you into skiing?  Come visit during the colder months and enjoy your time on the slopes. Some people come to stay on The Strip, but just want a day away from the crowds, away from the drinking, the partying and the gambling. Mount Charleston gives you the perfect picturesque opportunity to do it. Here, you'll find the serenity that you had been seeking. Trails Whether or not you are an avid hiker, who packs full gear and camps overnight, or someone who enjoys a long walk surrounded by tall trees, wildlife and a peaceful environment, you'll find something for everybody on this mountain. Depending on the time of year that you hike these trails, you may be surprised to find a cascading waterfall at the end of your journey, accompanied by awe-inspiring, panoramic views.  Or perhaps, after you've walked a few miles on the rocks, you'll discover a spring that has the freshest, coldest water, perfect for cooling off. Dogs are allowed to join you on your journey, so be sure to pack enough water and treats for them as well! 2. Valley of Fire Valley of Fire is amazing as well.  Take your pup for a fun day of hiking.  (Just remember to bring lots of water, and snacks and take time to relax)! If you're looking to be outdoors and relax by the water, believe it or not, Vegas has some for you! 3. Lake Las Vegas If you are looking to spend your vacation in a fairly quiet spot, Lake Las Vegas might provide you with just what you are seeking. For resorts, there is the MonteLago Village Resort, the Westin, or the Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa.' In MonteLago Village, You'll find fine dining, a variety of shops, and plush gardens for that perfect photo op.  If you take a short walk, you'll be brought to a small beach complete with a waterfall, sand, and lounge chairs. The scenery is simply amazing and wonderful to view either from sitting on the lawn overlooking the lake or from inside the Irish bar. 4. Lake Mead If you're looking to go on a boat ride, you can rent an electric boat to take your own tour or hop aboard one of the kayaks or pedal boats.  Or if you'd simply like to relax on the water, reserve a spot on one of Lake Mead cruises. Dogs are also allowed at Lake Las Vegas, so if you live in the area and are looking for a nice place to bring Fido for their birthday, they may enjoy a walk at the Lake! 5. The Hoover Dam The Hoover Dam is only a car ride away and while you're there, stop in Boulder City to visit the Clark County Train Museum and have lunch at the Southwest diner while you're in town. 6. Hemenway Park This is a little park right around the bend from Lake Mead. Be alert for some Big Horn sheep , the Nevada State animal, at Hemenway Park as they are often relaxing in the park by the dozens! 7. Red Rock Red Rock is one of my favorite places to visit. There are dozens of trails to choose from from Intermediate to advanced. It is the perfect place for a light hike as one trail called Red Springs has a beautiful boardwalk to stroll upon. If you want a bit more of a challenge, there are steep hikes and even mountain climbing! 8. Willow Beach and Emerald Cove Willow Beach is technically in Arizona but only a short drive from Lake Mead. If you love kayaking or boating, this is the place for you. Paddle through the water for a bit to see Emerald Cave where the water appears truly Emerald. You have the option to go with a guided tour or on your own! Only an hour From Las Vegas and easy to get to! Be sure to take your camera any time you visit, as you're bound to see something that catches your eye.  The Las Vegas landscape, from any angle, is breathtaking and perfect for making memories that will last a lifetime. RELAX For those looking to relax, these last two locations will sum up Ten Places to Visit in Las Vegas 9. The Salt Room The name is exactly how it sounds. It's a room covered in salt! Even the ceilings are salt! These types of rooms are perfect for those allergy sufferers and has many health benefits. Indulge in a massage before your salt room for the best relaxation! 10. The Tea Terrace If tea is your thing, invite your group to a tea party at this elegant, quaint tea house. A few friends of mine and I visited and were thoroughly impressed. Take a look at their delectable menu. The staff was friendly and informative, and we loved seeing all of the diverse decorations. A wide selection of teas, tea pots, tea cups, and serving plates! Absolutely adorable! I hope you enjoyed these ten places to visit in Las Vegas. Thanks for reading! ~ Elizabeth Parker Author of Dog Books!

When buying a house in Vegas, you may find a few things on the contract that you won't find elsewhere. By signing your name, you agree that you've been told there are scorpions, rattlesnakes...and coyotes.    Believe it or not, the contracts advise about the wildlife in Vegas. In truth, I was surprised there was not a disclaimer about the blazing heat!   When I  first decided to move out west, I visited a development building in the middle of the desert. Of course, there were houses and shopping centers nearby, but like many desert communities, they start small and end big.   It's a common misconception that all that Vegas has to offer is gambling and heavy drinking on The Strip. I've even met a few people who were surprised that people actually lived here! Yes, it's true; there is civilization past Las Vegas Boulevard, which is as odd as it may seem.   Coyotes in Las Vegas Once you venture off, away from the few miles of casinos, you'll find parks, recreation, entire residential communities, shopping centers, and other developments. If you explore long enough, you might eventually see some wildlife, including coyotes in Las Vegas!   There is a reason that some builders must disclose this information to buyers, as homeowners new to the area have expressed their surprise that there are potentially poisonous insects or vicious animals in the city. It's one way that the builders can protect themselves from lawsuits. Yes, there are coyotes in Las Vegas!   After living here for many years, I've had dozens of coyote sightings in my backyard. They can jump a six-foot wall without a problem! Thankfully, cameras are all over my property, so I usually get a warning when they are out there. The theory that they only come out at night is false. I saw them just as I was about to have a cup of coffee outside at 10:30 am.    On another occasion, one crossed in front of my dog Ginger and me. My heart knocked a bit loudly, but the coyote didn't seem to care about us, and for that, I was grateful. While my dogs are large, they are not predators in any sense of the word.   A few years ago, a neighbor of mine was not so lucky. On one horrific night, he left his four small dogs outside and left the house for a few minutes to go to the grocery store only minutes from his house. When he came home, one of his dogs was severely injured, and another one...missing. The coyote climbed a six-foot wall and snatched the dog from his own backyard. The only evidence was a trail of blood leading to the fence. It was fortunate that he came home when he did otherwise that coyote would've been back for the other three.   That was the first I've heard of such a horrific attack, as while coyotes will scout a food source, many small animals in the area such as rabbits or mice, could easily satiate their appetite. While it wasn't entirely out of character for a coyote, it was out of the norm for this area.   Let's Talk Coyote Coyotes in Las Vegas Coyotes are smaller than a wolf, weighing anywhere from thirty to fifty pounds. They have perfected the skill of observational learning and will remember wherever they've previously located a food source. It is strongly advised that if you come into contact with a coyote, even if it appears friendly, do not feed it. They will remember it for life and come back for more. Once they no longer fear humans, they will not be as shy about lingering in residential areas. This, in turn, leads to more attacks on domestic animals and small children. It's also advised not to leave food in bowls or trash receptacles.   While attacks on humans don't happen too often, they definitely can occur. Even though coyotes tend to feed on smaller animals such as rabbits and rodents, they will do whatever it takes to survive if they are starving.   When famished, they may even attack a dog while the owner is holding its leash. Often, they paralyze or suffocate their prey as a means to kill it.   Coyotes are vocal animals, and their howls can be heard from miles away. I can attest to my yelling at them at 3 in the morning when their boisterous tones keep me awake at night. Okay, so I don't really yell at them, but I do hear them, loud and crystal clear. When the windows are open, I hear their howling, huffing, barking and yelping, so they are not exactly shy about making their presence known. It's a good indication that they are getting closer.   Coyotes in Las Vegas: Steps to Avoid an Attack Though I have seen coyotes during the day, most of the time I've seen them after the sun has set for the evening or right before sunrise. Be aware that if you live in an area that shares its habitat with coyotes, that you may encounter one on an evening walk.   1.       If you have dogs and must use a doggy door, ensure that your dog knows how to use it properly to get back into the house and that a coyote cannot fit through the door! I've seen great doggy doors that lead to a completely fenced-in enclosure. The top is completely enclosed as well. That might be a good option if one must use a doggy door.   2.      In addition, ensure that there aren't any holes underneath your fence. However, One thing to remember is that a wall in itself might not be tall enough to keep a coyote out of your yard. They have been known to jump fences that are over eight feet in height. We've all heard the old saying, where there is a will, there's a way...and if desperate, they will find a way. They have an excellent sense of smell and will actually scout out an area and learn routines.    For example, if you let Fido out at 8 pm and he stays outside by himself until 10 pm, your neighborhood coyote will record this in his predator's brain and then pounce to feed as soon as opportunity knocks. They are quick and agile and typically have no issues whatsoever in their hunting abilities. While they can survive on fruits and berries, their pickings might be slim here in the desert. During days of famine, they adhere to survival of the fittest.   Coyotes can travel in packs of two, but sometimes more. Even if you have a larger dog, they may not be up to fighting off an entire pack.    I refrain from using a doggy door, and when I let my dogs out, I stay with them until they come in. A hungry coyote will do whatever it takes to acquire food.   3.      If you are walking about, you may want to carry a whistle, a small can of rocks, or anything that can make noise. Coyotes are skittish, and the slightest noise can scare them off. When I had one in my yard, all I had to do was open the door a little. The coyote heard it and quickly scurried away!   4. Be aware of your surroundings. While walking outside, we all tend to listen to music or talk to our friends on the phone sometimes, but stay alert and cognizant at all times! While coyotes are labeled as vicious, I have to disagree. They don't attack for the fun of it. They attack to survive. It's much different than the neighborhood dog who attacks simply because he can!   If you live in or move to an area with diverse wildlife, it's a good idea to know what precautions to take to protect yourself. In truth, we humans are building on their land, and it is possible to co-exist, but we must remember they are not domestic animals. I love coyotes but admire them from a distance and wouldn't want to put myself or my pets in danger. We need to respect them but be smart about protecting ourselves, our loved ones, and our animals.   "Bringing awareness about dog adoption and rescue, one dog at a time!"

Help an Indie, Please Leave a Review. It's Easy Peasy! And THANK YOU SO MUCH for those who have left book reviews.  I love hearing that you liked my book (and reviews help a great deal)! Here is how to leave a book review. Pick Your Book on Amazon. Scroll Down to Customer Reviews. Click [Write a customer Review]: Choose the Amount of Stars You Wish To Give (5 is always good, but be honest)! Type in Some comments, careful not to give away spoilers.  Put a short Headline for your review. Click Submit! That's all there is to it! Thank you so much!! Hope this helps explain how to leave a book review! Now for my long explanation! Book Reviews I've been reading ever since I can remember.  The first book I read on my own was Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish.  I had just begun first grade when I ran up to my new teacher beaming with pride about how I read this book all on my own.  How I remember that I'll never know. I'll also never know how I remember what it was about.  I've read thousands of books and can probably only remember the plot of a handful of them. Since first grade, I don't think I've been without a book on my nightstand or now-a-days, on my Kindle. Before the days of Goodreads and Shelfari, I designed a book database so that I can keep track of and run reports on the books I've read so that I don't re-buy them.  Pathetic, I know. When most kids were reading Judy Bloom, I sneaked into my sister's closet and pulled out the V.C. Andrews collection, "Flowers in the Attic."  Talk about another series that I do remember.  For the record, I don't think any nine year old girl should read these books!  They are disturbing and though I'm dying to read them again, I still feel the dark emotion that stemmed from reading them. But, yes, they are good! In all of these years, I had never written a review.  Not on a product, not on a book.  Nothing.  But then again, I'm from the era where you walked into a book store, pulled a book off of the shelves and bought it right then and there.  There was no place to leave a review, unless I wanted to tape a post-it note to the store window or something as far-fetched as that!  (Don't people get arrested for stuff like that)? So, now, two things have changed. One, the Internet exists and reviews are floating all over the place and two, I'm a self-published author and have seen the result of both good and bad reviews. In essence, they are a necessary evil in the world of a self-published author.  I assume for a traditionally published author they help(or perhaps hinder) as well, but then again, a traditionally published author has the preceding reputation to assist them, as well as a marketing team, advertising and other avenues for which to sell their books.  Self-published authors do not have that glamour.  Well, not yet anyway. So, Why are Book Reviews Important? I will never tell you that I like receiving a bad review.  However, in saying that.  Reviews not only tell readers that the consensus is on a book, but they also tell the writer what they are doing right and wrong.  I've begun writing reviews or at least have started rating them on the 1-5 star rating system.  If I don't like a book, like I said, I don't bash the author.  I simply state non-emotionally what I didn't like about the book.  Not every book can be a 4 or 5 star. If the book is written by a self-published author, I try to find where to contact them to tell them any errors that I find if that was what was preventing me from liking the book.  Chances are, if it is a self-published author, they have edited the book themselves, which I can tell you is impossible. To demonstrate the impact of helping another author, I need to follow this with a little story.  When I wrote one of my first stories, another indie author picked it up and though we didn't know each other, she made a running list of errors.  She was hesitant to tell me, because since she didn't know me, she was taking a risk.  Some people might become vile when they get constructive criticism.  Carefully, she told me what was wrong and I spent two days reading my own book again and in my head, thanking her every five minutes.  We still have never actually met, but support each other till this day!  I learned from her that before I bash someone, perhaps kindly contacting that person would be the better choice.  If she's reading this, you know who you are and thank you for looking out for me and teaching me a valuable lesson! A Bit of a Pitfall...and Not the Game I'd like to say that most reviews are legitimate, but I've heard of one myth and one pitfall that I can't ignore. Pitfall : We live in a world where sometimes, people get competitive.  There are some people out there, whether they are other authors, potential publishers or even enemies of the author who find out about their book and write bad reviews. You can usually tell who these are if the review is so vile and venomous and it seems like a personal attack on the actual author.  I didn't believe this happened until someone bragged about doing it on Facebook.  The thought of that made me sick.  Again, I could never sabotage someone out of competitiveness or because I didn't like them. I could only hope this doesn't happen often.  I don't see the reasoning for authors to be competitive.   Almost everyone I know read books of the same genre from several different authors.  They don't only pick just one! On the flip side, there are just people who hate the book so much that they will write a bad review out of their hatred. On that note, all I can say is this, whether it is a self-published or traditionally published author, there is a person on the other side of that computer reading these reviews.  I don't see the need to humiliate anyone.  There's ways to say that you didn't like a book without making a spectacle...but that's just my opinion.  I've the mindset to be kind to others. One weird scenario.  One day when I was flipping through reviews of dog books, I did notice one guy hit every dog book and wrote a one star review because he HATED dogs! This was before I even started writing, but it horrified me that someone would actually spend the money to buy dog books because they hated dogs and then spend their time to give a one-star review to show their hatred for dogs.  I hope that Amazon has since removed his account. Pen Name Whether you are writing a review Amazon, Shelfari or Goodreads, you can use a pen name if you prefer. As you can see, it's not so hard to write a book review and you'll be helping an author along the way!

Penelope paced the room, taking note of all of her surroundings. She noted the items on the counter and watched as the lights flickered. Seeing a toy she had dropped earlier, she picked it up and flung it across the room. Not knowing where it landed she circled the couch, found it and let it remain in its spot. Stanley was always home by this hour. She was sure of it. Penelope was hungry and been alone way too long. It seemed like forever. She stood by the sliding glass door, noticing the smudge marks all over it. As she glanced upward, she noticed the clouds moving quickly and the gloomy dark sky. She knew it was coming. Her limbs began quivering and she couldn't stand still. Pacing the room frantically, she searched for cover. The cushioned couch would suffice. Penelope jumped on and dug furiously. She wasn't sure what she was looking for but as the first crackle of thunder boomed, she knew she had to hide. Stanley wasn't here to protect her, but he'd understand. Outside, flashes of light zapped the yard accompanying the explosive threats. She had just covered herself with a thin layer of stuffing from the couch when the door opened. Happy for a moment, she jumped down, and zipped across the room to greet Stanley who didn't greet her in his normal way. She noticed his eyes open wide and his body tense up. She wasn't sure what was wrong. Looking to him for direction, she licked his hand, which was now clenched by his side. "PENELOPE! What did you DO?" Her tail now between her legs, she whimpered and circled around him, trying to lure him into comforting her. Shreds of stuffing were strewn around the room, and the new recliner cushions were ripped to pieces. Stanley's eyes bulged as he tried to decide what to do next. Putting down his briefcase, he slowly walked to the object that used to be a couch and shook his head. That was his favorite couch. He then turned to see Penelope, still standing, her eyes wide and her body tense. Just then the thunder crashed and a bolt of lightning struck, cutting off the lights so that they were both standing in complete darkness. Even Stanley jumped at the noise. Only admitting to himself that he was a little frightened, he now understood the fear. "Come here girl," he called. Penelope slowly walked over her tail only wagging slightly at the tip. Stanley stared at her for a minute, trying to compose himself. Then he saw it. The absolute fear in his precious pup's eyes. He noted her posture- rigid and tense. It was then that anger turned to compassion and intolerance turned to patience. "I understand. It's ok. We'll just get a new couch tomorrow. That one was old anyway." --- Sometimes we cannot see the world as our dogs see it...until we read the expression in their eyes, or the signs from their body language. Although we might not share the same fears or quirks, it's important to interpret their emotions. Thunder cannot be explained to a dog for they know only what they hear and what their body tells them. The same goes for other noises, changes and even scents. And yes, sometimes they know things that WE do not, Therefore WE can't make sense of them! It does not mean that danger isn't real!

Become Friends With Your Adopted Rescue Dog *Note:  For aggression issues, consult an experienced trainer with protective gear to train them! I can write this now.  A few months ago, I wasn’t as confident.  I’ve been adopting rescue dogs for approximately twenty-four years now.  All of them had been a retriever of some sort, mostly goldens, but also a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and a mix, possibly golden retriever and Labrador. With all of my dogs, there has been at least a little bit of a learning curve.  All except for Lola, but as I often mention, she was the exception, not the rule. After Lola passed away, I adopted Henry and Toby. I’ve had male dogs before.  I didn’t think training them would require more knowledge than I already had.  Well, I was dead wrong. I guess you can say I had grown somewhat complacent as my previous, most recent dogs, Lola and Ginger were easy-going and obedient from the start.  Of course, they had minor quirks.  Most dogs do.  For the most part, they were effortless to train.  They acclimated to one another quickly. Henry and Toby were a package deal.  They had grown up together and couldn’t be separated.  My first thought was, “Great!  I don’t have to worry about them getting along.”  That much was true.  The two love each other and are never apart. I didn’t realize they were very rambunctious, overly-excitable young pups.  They were six and seven years old and full of energy.  They were also powerful. While in the getting-to-know-you stage, it was apparent they were lovable from the start.  That was a bonus, but in their quest to show affection, they both loved to jump in my lap and smother me with kisses.  Super sweet but also very painful.  See, Toby weighs 85 pounds and Henry weight 118 pounds.  Their jabs into my rib cage were nothing short of excruciating.  But, they were showing their love.  I couldn’t get mad at that! Now, the hard part.  As they were both males, they love to playfight.  It’s fun to watch.  They are also very excitable so when Toby was done playing, and Henry isn’t, or vice versa, this can quickly escalate to a real fight.  Not as fun. Thankfully, they also have such a small attention span that they can easily be distracted, but one thing I read about was how to separate them when things get too hectic. Most people want to yell at them and tell them to stop.  That’s one of the worst things to do.  Yelling only makes them more excited.  Other options are more effective.  If you have access to a hose, squirting them with a hose will stun them enough to look the other way.  Blowing a whistle can also separate them.  You want to ensure you don’t get in the middle of their fight, as even though they may not mean to, they can bite you as well. Thankfully, they are goldens and typically don’t want to harm each other.  They usually just warn each other that they are getting mad, and the other will back off. My next feat was walking them.  I had always walked two or three dogs at a time.  Not a problem, right?  Wrong.  With Henry’s strength, and Toby’s agility, this resulted in them dragging me down the street (on my back).  Again, not really all that fun. Since I had learned how strong they were the hard way, I switched to walking them one at a time.  Two tools have helped me train them.  One is the Martingale collar.  It’s a loose-fitting collar, but tightens whenever they pull.  The second was a no-pull harness by Kurgo.  It has one clip in the back to be used as a seatbelt and one in the front, to be used when walking.  If they go to pull, they will automatically be directed toward you as you pull back, distracting them from whatever had caught their eye in the first place. I started walking them individually, and yes, I used two leashes on one dog.  One for the collar, and one for the harness.  I may look odd, but no less odd than getting dragged down the street!  This keeps me safe and my dogs from running in front of a car or getting into a scuffle with another dog. Toby has since “graduated” and only needs the collar when we walk, but Henry is too powerful at this point! When I adopted them, they didn’t know the meaning of “Drop it.” Or, they did and just didn’t listen.  Either way, I’ve trained them for hours on this simple command because it’s essential.  As goldens, they put everything in their mouth and are QUICK!  I’ve learned to spot possible things that would attract them and pick it up first, but when they are determined, they can easily beat me to it. Hence, the drop it command.  To teach this, I very carefully persuaded them to drop things they love, especially tennis balls.  Then, I gave them TONS of praise.  Next, I gave them a treat.  Lastly, I returned it to them, using another command, “EASY.”  That last command was because they didn’t differentiate between the ball and my fingers.  More on that in a moment. Every time they did what I asked, I repeated the sequence and then added, “Leave it.”  So, it basically goes, “Drop It, Leave it (so I can pick it up), GOOD BOY, and then EASY.” There were days I did this for an hour at a time until they got bored and did it for both of them.  Talk about exhausting!  But, they learned. To teach them “EASY,” I only returned the ball if they grabbed it slowly.  If they also tried to grasp my fingers, I pulled away and kept repeating until they took the ball.  One caveat here that I must repeat: Do not do this if your dog is aggressive.  For aggression issues, consult an experienced trainer with protective gear to train them! After teaching these commands and making a few changes to our routine, we have all become much happier together.  They love the training sessions (and the treats) and love getting praised. Repetition, Patience and Observing your Dogs Goes a Long Way. In time, you'll find that there was ways to become friends with your adopted rescue dog and it is easier than you think! I’ll post updates as we go along, as there is always more training to do.  But hopefully, these two tidbits can get you through some of the challenges of raising your adopted pet!

A Simple day. A Simple Man.  A BIG TOPIC!  The Light at the End of the Tunnel Do you ever wonder where authors get their material for their books, or musicians for their songs, or poets for their poems? I do.  I wonder what they were going through at the time, or what message they wanted to convey.  I wonder if it has anything to do with their real life or past experiences.  Is it all made up?  Is some of it based on real situations?  I have to think that often, it is. For most of my books, I got the ideas from dreams (or nightmares).  I have struggled with insomnia for as long as I can remember.  The end result is after finally tossing and turning, sleep almost automatically glides into REM  or deep sleep.  I’ve woken up from nightmares not knowing if they were real or not until I finally got my eyes open wide enough to realize, “Ok, so I’m not running in a forest right now and there are no prehistoric monsters chasing me.  Whew, that was a close one!” One of my recent books, “The Light at the End of the Tunnel” started about six years ago.  I was in New York at the time, sitting on a train.  In front of me, was a well-dressed man, literally doing nothing.  For some reason, after sitting across from him for an hour, I was intrigued.  The blessing (curse?) of an overactive imagination. I didn’t speak to him, nor him to me.  Nothing exciting was going on.  He didn’t say anything or do anything odd.  It was a very uneventful trip.  However, I wanted to base my character on him.  I have no clue as to why. When I got back to Las Vegas, I began writing.  The original title was going to be “The Man on the Train.”  But, then I realized there are a lot of titles like that.  A Man on a Train, a Girl on a Dragon.  Someone is always going somewhere. Then, the pandemic hit.  That poor man in my book had been sitting on that train for over five years.  My friend, Crystal Clary, and I often joked.  She’d ask me, “So, is that man ever going to disembark that train?” “Soon,” I’d answer.  “Soon.” Once I decided to give him a destination, the entire dynamic had changed.  People in my life had passed away.  I learned a lot more about anxiety and depression that I had ever wanted to.  Strangers would even talk to me about it, unbeknownst to them that I was in the midst of writing a book based on anxiety.  Even one of my doctors told me a story about her days with anxiety.  Out of the blue, during my checkup, she just started rambling.  I felt I was on the right “track.”  Yes, pun intended. So, with a little tender, love, and care, Carter had a destination, both figuratively and literally.  I wanted to open the door for people to feel comfortable with anxiety.  News flash, It’s not Taboo!  It doesn’t make you weak (or strong if you don’t have it).  It makes you human.  Ugh, I think I’d rather be weak!  😊 So, just a little inside information on how “The Light at the End of the Tunnel” was born.  A simple day, a simple man.  A BIG TOPIC!

Silent Redemption- a New thriller by Elizabeth Parker-Now on Amazon! I was excited to write this story, as I had never written a psychological thriller with brainwashing elements. It required a lot of research to see what criminal minds conjure up to gain control of their victims. While this was fun to write, it was also disconcerting! As you can imagine, trying to think like a criminal and then switch my mindset to feel like a victim was exhausting. I’m thankful and disturbed for what I have learned along the way! Sadly, these types of things occur in the real world. However, I did enjoy the characters. I created the characters for Vivienne and her friends and gave them their unique personalities. This thriller has its fair share of wild twists. I hope you enjoy it! SILENT REDEMPTION-A New Thriller by Elizabeth Parker Description: In the heart of the rugged Utah wilderness, Vivienne finds herself involved in a chilling web of manipulation and coercion. Vivienne, a woman of strength and resilience, suddenly vanishes from her ordinary life, only to awaken in the confines of a secluded cabin, her world shattered by the presence of five ominous men. Abducted against her will, she becomes a pawn in their twisted game, forced into a nightmarish scenario where her survival hinges on a chilling ultimatum: commit murder or face dire consequences. Trapped in a labyrinth of deceit and fear, Vivienne comes to terms with the harrowing reality of her predicament. As Vivienne's will is slowly eroded by the relentless pressure of her captors, she teeters on the brink of surrender. Yet, amidst the darkness, a glimmer of defiance flickers within her. With each passing moment, she gathers the fragments of her shattered courage, determined to reclaim her autonomy and defy the sinister forces that seek to control her. Will she succumb to the insidious machinations of her captors, or will she find the strength to defy them and forge her own path to freedom?

How Social Media Influences Us As someone who spends most of their days in front of a computer, a good portion of my time is spent on some form of social media. While it is an excellent tool from both a personal and business perspective, one has to wonder what type of influence social media has on all of us. There are many things I enjoy about all of the platforms. I love seeing photos of friends and family, especially those living far away. It is a beautiful way to stay connected. During the pandemic, it was beneficial as many of us were separated from our loved ones for over a year. I'm also a big fan of the memories that appear on Facebook. I like looking back to see what I've been doing all this time and seeing previous pictures through the years. As an author, I use social media to meet new people, exchange ideas, update my profile, and share dog stories and updates about upcoming books or signings. I have to say the platforms have changed throughout the years, and it seems I have to scroll through the unknowns to find a post from an actual friend, hopefully. Or, I have to specifically click on each friend’s profile to see if I missed anything! I’m not loving that aspect. Overall, it’s been somewhat helpful in the past, but I think there is a certain degree of negativity with social media. Back in the day (and yes, you can guess my age), there was no such thing as cyberbullying. Honestly, I’m not even sure there was much in-person bullying, either. It seems the number of people getting bullied has skyrocketed, and cyberspace only made that worse. Sadly, I’ve witnessed even family members “bullying” one another online, airing their arguments for the world to see. There is something to be said about the “olden” days when, if you had a problem, it wasn’t broadcasted online, and we could just pick up a telephone and hash it out privately. I'm thankful that I'm not in the middle of any argument, or at least I don't think I am. I'd have to scroll through tons of posts to find out! :) With the anonymity that goes hand-in-hand with cyberspace, I’ve noticed arguments escalate more than they should, and this time, there is a receptive audience watching from the comforts of their homes. I suppose it allows us to share our views freely, which sometimes can be good. Sometimes, not so good. Regardless of our diverse opinions, we’ve forgotten how to play nicely with others. I find it sad how social media influences us. We are all unique and have specific reasons for our opinions, so why can’t we discuss them in an open forum without being condemned? It seems like technology brings us so many amazing advancements, yet, we still find a way to turn it into something sinister and negative. That's partly the inspiration for my book, Virtuous Victory. I never want to forget that there are still good people out there! There’s also the mental health aspect. It’s normal to see highlights of a person’s life when they appear to live in a goldmine, but we must remember that everyone has their own troubles. No one’s life is magical (and if it is, I’d love to know their secret)! It’s important to remember that what goes on social media isn’t necessarily one hundred percent true. We never know what goes on behind closed doors, so there is no sense in “envying” someone based solely on their post. In addition, with the introduction of image modification apps, it's easy to look "flawless" online! Overall, I enjoy many aspects of social media, and when used positively, it can yield amazing results. It can bring people together, as long as we are careful not to let it tear us apart! What is your opinion of social media? Do you feel that social media influences us? Also, do you think it has helped or hindered our society?

Inspiration can be obtained from so many sources. Perhaps the most overlooked source, however, is the inspiration we get from our pets. Personally, my dogs have been some of the greatest inspirations throughout my lifetime. Often, it is easy to forget or lose focus on what a big role they play in our lives. Bittersweet reminders occur during the times when our pets become ill, or we start to notice that the aging process is becoming a more frequent reality. This week was that time for me. Goldie, who had to have her eyes enucleated a few years ago after her battle with glaucoma, and who also has hip dysplasia, became ill with vestibular disease. Thankfully, this is a disease that most often goes away on its own. However, before knowing what was wrong with her, I thought I was losing her. A surefire sign of this disease is the eyes swaying back and forth. Since Goldie no longer has eyes, I didn’t even look there, nor did I notice her eye muscles moving rapidly until her veterinarian pointed it out! Before I could bring her to the vet, I spent the night making her as comfortable as possible. During this time (mind you, with zero sleep), I had time to reflect on what a great comfort Goldie has been which then led me down a path to what an amazing life I had with all of my dogs. Goldie, who only came to my life three years ago, has been through such a tough time: The pain she endured from glaucoma, two major surgeries, adjusting to newfound blindness, her brother Duke—whom she loved beyond belief—passing away on Valentines day, and taking a drive across the country with me to explore an entirely new life. The past few years have been trying times for me as well and while I try not to lose sight of the positive things in life, during times of strife, it’s easy to dwell on the negative. While there were exciting things on the horizon for me, there were also many situations that, shall we say, put me in a less than stellar mood! Goldie’s pain also became my constant worry and Duke dying was a major heartbreak. During that same year, I also was divorced and, on my birthday, found out I had DCIS!! To say it was a bit difficult is an understatement. However, whenever I wanted to throw a grand pity party, I looked to Goldie. This dog, who had been through such tumultuous times and faced so many challenges, still managed to not only live, but still play, bark, goof around and wag that beautiful tail. Blind to the world around her, she still managed to hug everyone she had met, and be as loving and as gentle as she had always been. Her personality or spark did not fizzle with her losses. Even though, after Duke died, Goldie was noticeably upset, she perked up once she got a new friend, Ginger. So, how dare I throw any sort of pity party for myself when Goldie had been through SO much more in such a short time. Needless to say, she has been the glue that has held me together. Looking back, I realize all of my dogs have done the same in their own unique way. While thankfully, previous years weren’t half as devastating as the past couple of years, there were, of course difficult times. Heartwarming Dog TAILS I look back to Buddy, star of my book Finally Home who could raise my temper to the highest it has ever been when he’d steal everything I considered valuable, (including money) only to settle me into laughter with his insane antics. He filled my days with mischief but my nights with the most heartwarming snuggles I’ve ever encountered! He inspired me to write and publish my first book, Finally Home: Lessons on Life from a Free-Spirited Dog. Brandi, who would sit on the couch with me (or anyone for that matter) and cuddle up right next to said person. Without fail, she’d look back at the person and fall into their lap. It became such her routine, that I had to warn people to please catch her and hold her because she just assumed that they would! She was the calmest and handled everything as if it were no big deal, from normal daily activities to getting attacked by another dog! She taught me to take a breath every now and then and try to relax! Oh wait, I might have lied. Toffee was a handful too so I think her and Buddy Senior are in a tie for getting me crazy! However, there was nothing more precious to me than waking up to Toffee walking on my back, sticking her face under mine and smothering me with kisses. Now, of course, I know she was motivated for this as Toffee wanted to eat, but, still endearing nonetheless! Oh, this dog. This dog inspired me to be Patient!! Each had their own special way about them. Buddy Jr. who loved to kiss despite all of his fears, but would look away in shyness after he did so! He also loved to play peek-a-boo and would wag his tail so rapidly when he would finally see the person’s face who was playing with him! He learned to trust even though he was terrified of his own shadow due to an incident that happened prior to meeting him. (He was shot with a bb gun and had a bullet lodged by his ribs)! He inspired me while it is not easy to trust even if you've been hurt before, sometimes, it may just be worth it! Duke- In his strongest days, his method to waking me up wasn’t walking on my back like Toffee. It was sticking his giant head under my chest and literally pushing my entire body UP! Now, that is a wake-up call! And his love of toys. It brings a smile to my face to think of the time I walked in the house wearing fluffy gloves and Duke thought they were a toy. Instead of waiting for me to take them off, he gently grabbed them (my hands still in them) and walked me around the house like a giant toy, playfully growling as we walked. In 2016, he was diagnosed with melanoma and given three months at most, to live. He stayed with me for almost another year. During that year, he never faltered and was always happy even though he might not have felt his best. He loved everyone he met. He inspired me in many ways, however, the way he was with Goldie inspired me the most. He knew she couldn't see, and didn't complain once as she tripped over him, or walked on his head. He'd just look at me with those soulful eyes as if to say, "it's ok, Mom!' He inspired me to be more understanding and although I can't live up to his standards, it's something I strive for each day! All of these small but memorable details remind me of just how much they have inspired me. And I’m sure dog lovers can relate with your own memories. It is when you are having the worst of days, one silly antic from your dog can set you in the right mood. It’s as if they know they need to pull a trick out of their doggy sleeves to make their beloved family member laugh. Our dogs are what inspire such Heartwarming Dog TAILS. (A little fun with words there)! Goldie seems to sense exactly when I need to laugh and pulls through like clockwork. She is the one of the biggest attention hounds I’ve met so when I stop petting her, she throws her head back and barks. Three barks in the sound of “you, you, you!!!” This brings me to how she inspired me to coin the phrase, “Spank my uncle and call me Goldie.” When my brother (Goldie’s uncle) visited, he laid down on the floor with her and was petting her. Taking a break, he laid on his stomach and Goldie sat up, walked up beside him and well, spanked him right on the butt! Oh, why don’t I have that on video?! One of the funniest moments and hence, the title was born. I love funny dog stories. Dogs are so innocent and might not even know they are being funny, but I have a feeling that they do! Then, last but not least, there’s Ginger who loves to dance and throw her toys around. I only discovered this after seeing her shake her toys and I began singing the hokey-pokey to her. Not only did she shake it all about, but she ran around the room in her own little dance! Now, all I need to do is say “Ginger, you put your left foot in….” and she gets up and does her version of the hokey pokey. (So, are you singing that song in your head yet)? After Duke passed away, I swore I would never get another dog. Ginger inspired me to love again and that while dogs may not be with us forever, the lessons and inspirations they provide to us last forever! So, to sum it up. We never know how long our pets will be with us. We get eye-openers sometimes that reveal what a significant role they play in our lives and how much we truly love them. Go ahead, hug your pup. Never take them for granted. You are their world and though they won’t be with us forever, now is a good time to show them how much they are cherished! Thanks for reading! ~Elizabeth Parker- Author of dog books for dog lovers