Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion The Water Cooler Dog Owners.

The dog maybe, but YOU???

Did anyone else just feel a tremor in the Force?

We had a great dog photo thread a few years ago, but I can't get the search to be useful (again).....

Can't imagine what it's like to lose a pet dog, having only had pets that fit in an aquarium or cage. The last pet I had was a Peking Robin who lived for over 15 yrs, which wasn't too bad considering most of them die at around 5 yrs, but it was heartbreaking to see him go.

Usually, as a wee lad, I used to catch my own pets and bring them home proudly to show my mother..."this snake here is a red bellied snake and these 4 are garter snakes" or I'd catch some turtles(painted and snapping) and bring them home. She was a good sport actually, as long as they were kept in an aquarium on the porch she was OK with it. Usually after a week or two we'd let them go then try and catch something else.

Ok....I know this thread is for the dogs...carry on...

Really.

Turtles need not apply. ::Haruumph!::

What about frogs and toads? salamanders?

::ducks as cans of Dr. Ballards fly overhead::

Caught many an amphibian as a kid. Toads got scarce around here for awhile (I have read that is an indicator of an areas ecological health) but seem to have made a comeback. We have a friend who talks about licking toads as a kid to "catch a buzz"? I have caught many a toad but have never had the urge to get one close to my mouth.....

Mainly amphibians are indicators of a healthy ecosystem because they breathe through their skin, so if the air/water is polluted, they are usually the first or one of the first creatures to get affected. Some reptiles, like frogs and turtles are also at risk even though they breathe through lungs, they still absorb toxins through their skin.

Exactly! That is why I am happy to hear the tree frogs, bull frogs, spring peepers, leopard frogs, Forsters toads and American toads aroung here........has anyone underestimated my nerdiness?

Well, there's the lack of licking....

So sorry to come back and hear the news Mike. Our best buddy Cosmo doesn't have a lot of time left with us either so I understand how you feel as it has been on my mind.