Tuesday, March 24, 2015

March 15,2015-

Today with sadness in my heart I end Skyler' s blog......I put a close to any new additions to her blog.....the blog will remain open to go back and read and view over and over BUT there will be no further blogs added. I will let Skyler rest in peace, and enjoy her time over the Rainbow Bridge and blog up there with my Grandparents and other past friends (animals) and run and play, and await the day we will be together again!

See you one day Skyler, I love you and miss you with all my heart and soul!
Pamela

Monday, March 23, 2015

Our Story Part Ten- Final GoodBye!

March 12, 2015-

On Tuesday, March 2, 2015, Skyler was laid out before being cremated. Being cremated she will always be with me physically as well as in my heart!......

Here is my last goodbye where I read and edited the letter I wrote to her again and said my final goodbyes!

I love you and miss you Skyler, and I promise we will meet again over the Rainbow Bridge!

Here is our final video together:

 
The staff at Regency Forest  took great care of her and me and where awesome in every respect, I must add a special kudos to Brian who meets you and careful transport the loved one into the building and lays them out and talks you through the whole process with the utmost respect and care. He really helped me through my loss on his end and really shows he cares!
 
 
St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals is watching over all our lost animals and will be with them all until we all meet again!



Here are the facilities at Regency Forest, beautifully kept, and even with this harsh winter on Long Island you can see how beautiful it really is!

Thank you all at Regency for helping me with my loss, as we all know people and their pets are family and they all know this well- it shows in the way they talk and deal with their clients!




Skyler will be kept on top of the piano with the rest of my pets, the same piano that my grandfather bought my grandmother years ago, which I will play and relearn from years ago. You can watch me getting her ready to rest in peace with me close by everyday and night, here is our last video!
 

Sunday, March 22, 2015

Our Story Part Nine

March 12, 2015-


Before Skyler left me for our temporary parting, as we will meet again over the Rainbow Bridge, I read the letter I wrote to her so I knew that she knew what was in my heart! And she will know that we will be meeting again one day soon, and where!

At this point the Degenerative Myopathy had attacked her respiratory system, you will hear how in this video......it was breaking my heart......but I knew that we were together until the end.

At 5pm on Friday, February 27, 2015- Skyler left this world to go and cross over the Rainbow Bridge and be with Candy, Sammy, Kelso, Mittens, Mulch, and all my past animals and I know my Grandparents are all up there to walk and run and play with them all! They are all waiting for me one day and after I keep all my promises to them here on earth I shall be with them all across the Rainbow Bridge! I love you all!.....

I love you Skylersky!

 
Tune in tomorrow for our last GoodBye!
Have a tail waggin' day,
Skyler and Pam
 

Saturday, March 21, 2015

Our Story Part Eight

March 12, 2015-

Our latest project together is a culmination of everything we stand for and want to bring to other teams of people and their dogs alike. Our book!

Together with our pack- or our team- Sandy, Candycane, Scout, and Benji- we co authored our book...."GET YOUR LEASH ON!" A guide to living a healthy and happy lifestyle together!

 
So go on over to Amazon.com and order our book today, a portion of the proceeds of the book will go towards Kent Animal Shelter until May 2015.
Here's a link to our book:
 
 
Have a tail waggin' day and GET YOUR LEASH ON!
Skyler and Pam
 
 

Friday, March 20, 2015

Our Story Part Six

March 12, 2015-

Skyler is not the only one with some health issues, over the last few years I too have had a few scares....the doctors still have no idea why I have had these episodes either by the way! Every test was done and proven to come back NORMAL! SO what is one supposed to do?!?!??! Right?!?!?!?

I eat clean, I exercise, I have my dogs to reduce my stress levels....I mean hello.....I have a great family.....some close friends.....people seem to like me.....what could it be?!?!?! Hhhhmmm.......

Check this video out:
 
Yes, I had three mini strokes......and at my young age! Weird....although not unheard of......there are other young people who have suffered the same......like Frankie Muniz
 
 
I'd like to know if they ever found the cause for him- thinking probably not.....
 
Most recently I stressed myself out so much that I had another episode (which "unofficially" I am saying it was my ministoke #4......when I went to the ER everything was fine and they sent me home with a clean bill of health.....I mean they did test me out before letting me go and all.......hhmmmm
 
Okay tune in tomorrow for more of our story, some upbeat stuff I promise!
Have a tail waggin' day!,
Skyler and Pam

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Our Story Part Seven

March 12, 2015-

For years Skyler and I have worked with local representatives to get our local dogpark established.  We looked for places to establish a place. We settled on Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown, NY. We first appealed to County Executive Robert Gaffney, and our local Legislator Andrew Crecca. We soon came to work with a group called H-Dog (who were an established group in the town of Huntington, NY- Long Island), now called LI-Dog. They had no choice to change their name due to Skyler and my work bringing the group further east to Smithtown and even further along than that.....we now have parks in Smithtown and Brookhaven alike......as well as Huntington!

Watch the video here:

 
You can find out more about Blydenburgh County DogPark here:
 
 
And LI-Dog here:
 
Have a tail waggin' day and tune in tomorrow for more of our story!
 
Skyler and Pam
 

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Our Story Part Five

March 12, 2015-

The last few years, Skyler was diagnosed  with Degenerative Myopathy. This is a

 
What is Degenerative Myelopathy?
Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. The disease has an insidious onset typically between 8 and 14 years of age. It begins with a loss of coordination (ataxia) in the hind limbs. The affected dog will wobble when walking, knuckle over or drag the feet. This can first occur in one hind limb and then affect the other. As the disease progresses, the limbs become weak and the dog begins to buckle and has difficulty standing. The weakness gets progressively worse until the dog is unable to walk. The clinical course can range from 6 months to 1 year before dogs become paraplegic. If signs progress for a longer period of time, loss of urinary and fecal continence may occur and eventually weakness will develop in the front limbs. Another key feature of DM is that it is not a painful disease.
 
Degenerative myelopathy begins with the spinal cord in the thoracic (chest) region. If we look under the microscope at that area of the cord from a dog that has died from DM, we see degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord. The white matter contains fibers that transmit movement commands from the brain to the limbs and sensory information from the limbs to the brain.
 
 
 
 
DM vs Normal
In the section of a spinal cord from a dog who has died of DM (Left), the degeneration is seen as a loss of the blue color at the edges (arrows) compared with the spinal cord from a normal dog which is blue througout (Right).
This degeneration consists of both demyelination (stripping away the insulation of these fibers) and axonal loss (loss of the actual fibers), and interferes with the communication between the brain and limbs. Recent research has identified a mutation in a gene that confers a greatly increased risk of developing the disease.
 
 Above in the video are Skyler and I cuddling on the bed and holding each other close! Although when the we sleep the lights are off and we are cuddled close and comfy together! And Sandy gets into the picture as well!
 
Just a reminder for you:
Goodnight,
sleep tight,
Skyler and Pam

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Our Story Part Four

March 12, 2015-

Part Four Here we go.......

We have to mention our other races as well.......
In fact, there were races that we travelled long distances to and that we had to stay overnight for.....

Dog Run Dog races in Provincetown, MA and our favorite in Vermont.
The race in Vermont was a wet race, yes, it had rained before and I think a little during the race.....we ran with the whole pack.......VERMONT by the way takes the cake on the amount of HILLS and they are definitely not small hills.....but the scenery was breathtaking!  We had a great time there and we were all running TOGETHER! I for one was in my bliss! All four of us together for a 10k of hills!
      Here's more on our story:

 
And I want to share our video of the race as well......you can see ALL of us running as well......
 
 
Tune in tomorrow for more of our story and don't forget to subscribe to our channel on YouTube and check out our websites at www.doggonehealthychoices.com and www.pamelaschmidlin.com
 
Have a tail waggin' day!
Skyler and Pam

Monday, March 16, 2015

Our Story Part Three

March 12, 2015-

Okay Part Three of our story......

I was looking for a running partner for sometime not finding any real luck with people.......we would run together occasionally, but there was usually a reason to not run together, we lived too far from one another- they liked to run at night, I like to run in the morning (I would have to change my schedule around to run with them they would never do so for me!), etc....etc....etc......

I finally realized my best running partner was right at my feet, I slept with her, I ate with her, she was ready whenever I was ....she was truly the best of the best......so Skyler and I became running partners and I was spoiled ever since......it wasn't about beating anyone else, it was about staying fit, getting out there and moving, and just enjoying the RUN TOGETHER!......Our favorite running spot was Blydenburgh County Park trails. Ok, we did do several races together, we even set up our own race here in Smithtown with Dog Run Dog. The money raised through this race was for LI-Dog so that more dogparks would be established!

Our BIG race is the NYC IAMS Doggy Dash (now called the AMC Doggy Dash).....this is Skyler's race but Scout will be running it this year in her place, but using Coach Skyler's advice and training all along the course!- So will I!)......
You can watch the IAMS Doggy Dash video at the end of this blog as well. The race is a 5 mile race that, included a 5 minute rest stop for the dogs halfway through the race to make sure it is safe for them to continue on! Skyler and I ran this race two years in a row in 2009 and 2010! We run alongside the Triathletes at the end of the NYC TRI!

Watch out video about how we became the best running team ever here:
 
Watch the whole pack and Skyler and myself running and having fun at our favorite place in run here in these videos:
 
 
 
And the IAMS Doggy Dash (where Skyler was the star of the show!)
 
and the winner got their special trophies how awesome is that?!?!?
 
We loved running the IAMS Doggy Dash.......and we hope Scout enjoys it this year! Run well and safe Scout! 
As you can see on our runs we had a lot of fun and knew how to cool off! I love running with my pack, it's the only way to run!
 
Skyler and Pam

Friday, March 13, 2015

Our Story Part Two

March. 12, 2015-

Let's get right to it, Part Two of our story......

Several years ago, Skyler and Sandy were both certified as Canine Good Citizen Dogs. They were tested and approved!

 The American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program, started in 1989, the CGC Program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community.

Many dog owners choose Canine Good Citizen training as the first step in training their dogs. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events. As you work with your dog to teach the CGC skills, you'll discover the many benefits and joys of training your dog. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with-they respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life. We sincerely hope that CGC will be only a beginning for you and your dog and that after passing the CGC test, you'll continue training in obedience, agility, tracking, or performance events.
AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program is one of the most rapidly growing programs in the American Kennel Club. There are many exciting applications of this wonderful, entry level that go beyond the testing and certifying of dogs.

All dogs, including both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program. Dogs must be old enough to have received necessary immunizations such as rabies vaccines. Owners will sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge attesting to having the dog under the routine care of a veterinarian who will work with the owner to determine an appropriate plan and schedule for vaccines and other health care procedures.
There is no age limit for the CGC test. A dog is never too old to be a good citizen. Puppies who have completed all immunizations and boosters may be tested, however, because we know that behavior and temperament can change over time, when puppies pass the CGC test, owners should have them re-tested as adults.

 
Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our websites:
 
And tune back in tomorrow for more of our story!
Skyler and Pamela 
 
 

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Our Story Together Part One

March. 12, 2015-

Today, I want to talk about our story together....Skyler and I were friends from the first time our eyes met. It was literally kismet! I walked into the Huntington Animal Shelter in Huntington, NY- Long Island and all I had to do was walk 5 feet and turn to my right and I was a goner! From that point on Skyler had adopted me into her heart (and vice versa!)

Having had such positive experiences with the Huntington Animal Shelter, I must admit I was not surprised! First really close friends of the family had adopted their dog Buffy from there. I remember Buffy loving grape gum! And if she was mad at you, she would sit and turn away from everyone.....you would know it! The first animal shelter on Long Island to develop a dog park/ run (one for the shelter dogs and one for the public to use alike) was established by the shelter as well. In fact today you can visit the dogpark there with your dog, or check out the dogs for adoption and use the dogpark there with your new best friend! Skyler and I have used that dogpark frequently over the years as well! We would bring Sandy and Candycane as well!

Check out our video to hear more about our story:

 
Also Skyler and I want to remind you to subscribe to our YouTube channel and to check out our websites at: www.doggonehealthychoice.com and www.pamelaschmidlin.com
 
 
 
Tune in tomorrow for Part Two of our story and more videos!
Skyler and Pam

Monday, March 9, 2015

Skyler and my story Part two......

March 9,2015-

Skyler and I tell our story and want to show some videos showing some of our favorite times together with each other and our pack!

 
 
Hope you enjoy our story.....more to come tomorrow!

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Our Story Part One

March 4, 2015-

The next few days we will be bringing you our story.....how we met, and became the greatest pack ever. Our experiences together.....and more....we hope you enjoy it all.....here is our first video......

 
Skyler and I want to make sure you head on over to www.doggonehealthychoices.com and www.pamelaschmidlin.com in the next few days to check out more info on our mission in life......and beyond. We feel really passionate about bringing health and happiness to other six legged TEAMS, because we had a long life together and loved every minute together! We will be updating the site in the up and coming days and weeks so check back often as well.....more to come, stay tuned in! And subscribe to our YouTube Channel as well......
 
Coach Skyler

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Entered Marie Foleo's BSchool Scholarship Contest Today!

February 15, 2015-

Today, was a rest day but we only took a day off from running.....we put a sort little quick video together for Marie Forleo's BSchool scholarship contest......

Scout, Pam and myself are all in the video.....and of course Sandy and Candycane were all part of the reasons for asking t be chosen for the scholarship.

Our idea is grand.....and much needed place for people and their four legged best friends.......we are intent on setting up a Six Legged Companion Health and Wellness Center , where dogs bring their people to workout, our take a bunch of healthy living classes. Skyler has confided in me that working on getting our local dogpark for 8 years was a long hard journey BUT well worth it.....now dogparks are coming more into view here on Long Island everyday.

People and their dogs (or other pets) ALL need to live healthy lives......which in turn makes their lives HAPPY!.....and who doesn't want to be happy or better yet healthy and happy.

There is so much involved in our Six Legged Companion Health and Wellness Center from a café, a running groups, walking groups, a team pool (one where dogs and people can both swim in!), tons of classes cooking, healthy living, environmentally sound classes.....and so much more- that is LITERALLY just the tip of the iceberg!.......

Check out our video and check out BSchool, and watch our dreams become a reality when we get out scholarship!
 
 
 
#winBSCHOOL  and  http://joinbschool.com

Monday, February 9, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog

February 9, 2015-

Okay, after a few days of not blogging, we're back......Pam has been sticking with her training......along side ALOT of shoveling of snow......she was still shoveling snow from the 2015 BLIZZARD.....hey, we have a lot of area to shovel and it is back breaking work, topped off by the ice that we got over the past week! As a lover of winter, it is weird to hear Pam or myself say this BUT "WHERE IS SPRING ALREADY?" Pam said she saw a robin red breast the other day driving down the road on a tree limb, which is supposed to be a sign of spring......well come on already!

In the meantime, I've been making her do her minutes of planks everyday.....she is up to 9 minutes of planks a day.....coupled by her marathon training with Scout......I'm coaching both of them well I think!

Yes, I consider it a promotion to graduate to COACH!.....In the meantime, you can do your part and donate to our little fundraiser for the League of Animal Protection/ Huntington Animal Shelter, the place that brought Pam and myself together......here is the link:

 
You can always subscribe to this blog and get automatic updates on our training.....I hope to get some more videos done as well......so hit that subscribe button now.....
 
and next month, every book sold here (at the link below) a portion of the proceeds will go to the League of Animal Protection/ Huntington Animal Shelter:
 
 
 
Ok, I want to get Pam to do some more plank time right now so Good Night Sleep Tight and cuddle with your four legged best friend tonight to keep warm......I'll be cuddling with my two legged best friend!
Coach Skyler

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Plank Challenge 3 minutes.....

February 3, 2015-

February 3, 2015- Plank Challenge Day 3- Pam did her 3 minutes of planks today, I cut her some slack due to the fact she had to shovel snow but more importantly ice, not only shoveling it but scraping it off the driveway and paths in the yards. She really is sore from the added exercise so I decided the bending down to scrape the ice worked her core so I let her do the 3 minutes in segments of 30 seconds each......Hey, at least she did it and it all counts!

She is trying to keep up with the 28 days of planks the best she can. She also went on a slushy, puddly, and icy run with Scout before her Planks so tomorrow I'll get her 4 minutes of Planks before anything else......4 mins....what shall I challenge her to do.....maybe 1 minute of regular planks, than a minute of plank on the Swiss ball, and then repeat the same for the next two minutes. I think that will be the Plank Challenge tomorrow, I will be there coaching her along.

I just wish that this organizing the house thing was done- the disorganization is getting to me!
Pam- I will be coaching you in your organizing as well soon! No NOW!
So let's get going.....

Check out today's video of Pam's planks:


Don't forget to donate to the Huntington Animal Shelter (League for Animal Protection) at the link below:


 
And check out our new book.....I co authored it with my pack!
 
I am the first featured in the book of our pack!
 

 

Until tomorrow,
Plank it up!,
Coach Skyler


 

Monday, February 2, 2015

Skyler's Coaching Fundraiser

February 2, 2015-



This Groundhog Day was wet, and cold but Pam and Scout still went out to start their marathon training.......When they got back I had Pam do her 2 minute Plank WITH the Swiss Ball......

Here is the video:


 
 
It was tough to balance on the ball.......and Pam took a few breaks BUT she accomplished the task at hand.....it is only the second day and she'll get it.....She has 6 more weeks of WINTER to practice her planks inside......

We will be doing some Doga moves tomorrow so stay tuned......as well as a THREE minute plank....Ya ready?.....Ya Ready Pam?!?!?!


Okay, that is it for today......here is to NO ICE for tomorrow!

Coach Skyler

Here is the link for our fundraiser:
https://www.crowdrise.com/plankfundraiser/fundraiser/pamelaschmidlin

Sunday, February 1, 2015

NEW CHALLENGE begins......

February 1,2015-
Skyler in Coaching Mode!
 
Today is the start of my challenge for Pam.....a PLANK challenge......whereas she started with a one minute plank today, tomorrow she will holding that plank for 2 minutes, and everyday doing another minute of planks......she will be adding different planks into the mix in the next 28 days, BUT always adding minute everyday. She may add a side plank......(it could be 30 seconds on each side or a full minute) depending on the day.....BUT her goal is set to do the required minutes in PLANKS- it will be easy for her to know how many minutes she needs to do as the minutes will coincide with the day of the month!.......Think she can do it......I DO!

Here is the first video:
 
Just a little about my story......
I am a German Sheppard Mix who came to be with Pam and the rest of my pack back in 2001 through the way of Huntington Animal Shelter. And I have loved every moment of my life since! Pam and I have become the very best of running partners and now Doga and Pupilates partners as I was forced into retirement. Actually I think that running and walking everyday with Pam has seriously put off the onset of this neurological condition I have. I was diagnosed as being a carrier of DM- that is Degenerative Myothpathy back in 2009 I believe, of course I was always a carrier of it! BUT signs of this condition took awhile to show as Pam kept me strong and healthy. And I kept her strong and healthy. As of today, I really cannot get around on my own but thankfully I have my best friend ever Pam. (I know she is frustrated but not at ME at the DM, as she really can't twitch her nose and make it all better! She tells me everyday she wishes she can do just that! She gives me special vitamins, does Doga and Pupilates with me.....she helps me get around, and doesn't give up on me......
 
I want to hang in there as long as possible to each Scout how to run with Pam properly, and to teach him how to be a good no great pack member. I will be appearing in this months videos with Pam as her coach....and motivator......holding on and doing my share.......
 
In the meantime, because Huntington Animal Shelter brought us together this CHALLENGE is also now turned into a fundraiser for one of the greatest shelters on Long Island! I want to give back to the shelter who helped me find my furever home with Pam, Sandy, Candycane, and Scout- and Benji although he lives next door!
 
Won't you help me help the shelter and the rest of the dogs out there?
Here is the link to donate- by the way, the money goes directly to the Shelter, I do not see any of the money BUT have the satisfaction of coaching Pam during this time and knowing I did some good for a great organization!
 
 
Come back tomorrow for more updates on our challenge......
I think tomorrow's 2 minute plank will challenge Pam a little more and we'll talk more about the fundraiser during the challenge.......I will be coaching her in the video I hope! I'll try! Today I just had to rest!
Good night, Skyler!
 
Oh- Visit our new Facebook page as well:

Monday, January 26, 2015

As January comes to an end......

January 26, 2015-


As the last Monday of the month rolls around, the snow comes in way of a blizzard. We are expecting anywhere from 1 to 2 feet of snow.....Pam went to pickup enough food for all of us yesterday for the next few day, expecting to be snow bound for a day or two. I think the workout for the next 1-2 days will be shoveling snow for Pam while we all get to make tracks in the backyard and roll around in the snow!......

Pam said she will dig out an area for me to lie on the grass with a nice cool layer of snow, so that I will not sink through a foot or more!..........I am thinking an igloo of sorts......we shall see, I think during shoveling snow- I will call out to her for water breaks and stretching breaks to make sure Pam works out with us and we can be sure she is ok for continuing on! We care for one another in this pack!

There are no pictures today, as we stayed indoors and took care of some school work and just chilled out!.....Scout and Pam went for a short run this morning, the snow was coming down with the wind blowing it in Pam's eyes, which was unpleasant but nevertheless Pam still loves the snow. It was a cold run but all bundled up it was comfortable for Pam!

I hope to have an awesome blog for you tomorrow with photos of an igloo, or at least a dugout for us to enjoy the snow and the cold grassy yard!.....Oh my, NOW it feels like WINTER has come about!

Until tomorrow,
Skyler

Sunday, January 25, 2015

Give me Five!

January 25, 2015-

Hey even though running is an very important part of training for a marathon there are other parts to training that need to be included as well. Some of these exercises will be demonstrated by myself and Scout in our blogs before and during training when it begins.

Today, I will go over Give me 5 or Giving a Paw, which is easy to do....it's cute and impressive when others see you doing this with your human companion. And it is a great exercise for your front legs and elbows. You should do this on each side at least 2 to 3 times!

Here is our video of the day:

 
Speaking of training......in one week we start our training to complete our full challenge:
here is the link for my fundraiser:
 
 
the charity is the Huntington Animal Shelter.....I will be calling them this week to put their info in to the form so they can get their check as soon as possible from Crowdrise!
 
Each day will include more and more planks....the goal is to end up doing 28 mins of planks straight....YIKES!.....Can I even imagine doing 7 minutes straight?!?!?!.....I will be helping Pam do each day and motivating her to hold the plank the correct way and all......So, are ya ready to help us help my fellow doggy pals at Huntington Animal Shelter find their furever homes and spend their time at the shelter that much more comfortably in the meantime!
 
We will ask the shelter to display a board about our time together since coming together at the shelter and our challenge this week as well.....so are you going to join us for this challenge?  will you help the fellow doggy friends?.......
 
Okay more coming tomorrow,
Skyler

Saturday, January 24, 2015

the Lunge......

January 24, 2015-



Hello everyone Skyler here....today I helped Pam with her pose today, because of a snow/ rain storm last night (and it still raining throughout the day) she decided to keep the workouts indoors. So, we decided to show you one of our daily Doga poses....and in fact two ways of doing the pose as well!.....

Watch the video and then I'll tell you more about the LUNGE:

 
Some of the benefits of  the LUNGE pose are as follows:
 
it will definitely strengthen the quadriceps and gluteus muscles, while stretching the psoas and hips, it will develop stamina and endurance in your thighs, and improve your balance, concentration, and core awareness. Oh, it is great for reducing sciatica pain (if only I knew this when Pam had her sciatica pain!)
 
To challenge her balance, in the month of February, I think I am going to have her close her eyes when she goes into this LUNGE pose! What do you think? Is a challenge set?
 
Alright that's all I have for now,
Check back tomorrow for more training poses/ moves,
Skyler

Friday, January 23, 2015

Extended Puppy Pose

January 23, 2015-

Over the years, I have done my share of running and working out with Pam and do not get me wrong I enjoyed every step and movement we did together BUT as time goes by, and I get older and the fact that I do in fact have degenerative myopathy, I can only do so much now. This I know breaks Pam's heart and it kills me not to be out there running and doing more- it messes with our heads and hearts more than anything. But we do what we can! Pam really does try to accommodate me and make things work out for the best for me and her!  And I love her for it! (I love the treats as well that she gives me just for being me- over the years I earned them and she knows it, whereas Scout still needs to perform for a lot of treats, he'll get to my position as the years go by but for now!......

Anyway, today we are showing you the Extended Puppy Pose....I did a resting Extended Puppy Pose for Senior and Handicap Dogs- while Scout with the help of Pam demonstrated the younger dog pose. And then Pam demonstrated the human pose with my help of course (gotta love those treats!)......Check out today's video:

 
So anyway, that is the Extended PUPPY Pose....I still got my Puppyness!....No?!?!?!.....Pam thinks I do!.....
Until tomorrow have a great day and get your leash on with your dog,
Skyler
 
Check out our new book.....I co authored it with my pack!
 


Thursday, January 22, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog- the Plank

January 22, 2015-

Okay, today we did the Dolphin Plank.....and also show the "regular" plank as well......we also announced in February a challenge set for ourselves.  I will be making sure Pam does this everyday and correctly.

The challenge will follow the video of the day: We had to cut it short because Scout decided to stand directly in front of the camera and he would have been mooning everyone on YouTube, so we are sparing you!

 
Ok, this was a quick video take, sorry about the extreme burst of light in the background but the dogs wanted the door OPEN to watch everything going on!
 
Ok, here is the Challenge.....starting February 1, 2015- Pam will start doing a 1 min plank (she can start with the Dolphin Plank but will hopefully end up doing the "regular" plank. Each day Pam will add a minute to her plank.....and by February 28, 2015- Pam will accomplish a 28 minute plank! Wait, what is the longest time a plank has been held?.....
 
The world record for holding a plank is 4 hours......hhmmm.....shall we work her up to a 4.5 hour plank?!!?!?!??!.....Let's just get her through the first challenge.......
 
Oh, and to top it all off.....There will be a fundraiser accompanied with this challenge.....Pam will be making a fundraising page and posting it here, of course this challenge will have a lot to do with Scout and Pam's marathon.....heck a strong core helps with a strong run!
 
So check back tomorrow for that info.....anyway, I think Pam can accomplish a 28 minute PLANK do you?!?!??! With my coaching and me right by her side.....it would be really cool if people would donate a dollar a minute......Pam is determined to do this, hey if she got through Army Boot Camp, she can work her way up to and do this- YIKES!
 
Oh the sale of our book proceeds will be split between Huntington Animal Shelter and Kent Animal shelter.....a percentage going to each shelter.....and you can read up on how to get active and healthy with your dog the safest way possible!
 
See you tomorrow.....
Skyler
 
 

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog- The Gate Pose

January 21, 2015-

Today, I will be assisting Pam with the Gate Pose......AKA Parighasana. I mention this because parigha= an iron bar or beam used to lock or shut a gate.

So the fact, we did this outside today, in the cold has it's reasons. I mean Pam does keep us safe from running off the property with a fence and a few gates that she keeps shut and locked! So I thought this all fit together. What do you think?

Oh, when you watch the video, I was not harmed in anyway when Pam extended her leg, she just has long legs and it caught me by surprise BUT we do both like being close to one another when we workout!

Watch today's video here:

 
Simple stuff, it was nice to get outside and so some poses......I think I am going to get Pam to do more poses outside- EVEN if it is COLD out, she can just bundle up! Hehehehehehhehehe......
 
Check back tomorrow.....it's gonna have to be a special pose, as it's Pam's mothers birthday!.....
 
Skyler

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog- Sphinx, Cobra, and Upward Dog poses.....

January 20, 2015-


Three somewhat similar yoga poses with their respective doga poses are the Sphinx, the Cobra, and the Upward Dog poses. So I thought I'd bring them to our attention today so that we can see they are in fact different.

The Sphinx pose is basically lying on the ground and holding your upper body up straight with your arms bend. Think of the Sphinx you may have seen in Egypt (or movies thereof). This is basically the same pose for your dog and you! Dogs are great at this pose just by lying and paying attention, we sit upright meanwhile automatically going into the Sphinx pose! I think I look like the GREAT Sphinx of the World- what do you think? (You can judge from the photo above or the video below!)

The Cobra Pose is taking the Sphinx pose a little deeper and lifting your upper body off the mat or ground. Meanwhile straightening your arms and looking up. I demonstrated this with Pam today, basically it's our Sphinx pose but we add a little stretch for the neck and chest into the mix, our human companions can help us by holding a treat above our heads to entice this movement!

The Upward Dog is taking these poses even further. While you will have your arms bent you will be lifting you legs off the mat as well, again looking up. Scout demonstrated this pose today! (Did you ever see a dog go into play mode? Well, our pose is kinda like the dogs pose to go out and play with other dogs or their companion thereof!)

Watch our video to see the different poses:





Ok, after we did these poses Pam, Sandy, Candycane, Scout and myself finished our Doga session.

I can't wait for tomorrow,
See ya then,
Skyler

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog- Half Lord of the Fishes Pose

January 18, 2015-

Training resumed today.....and we did a new pose for you to do with your dog!.....Your dog will be making sure you get the proper stretch for this.....the proper twist motion if you will...

A good thing to do, which Pam did was to twist and treat the dog! Once you twist your body and are looking where you need to, have that treat ready and TREAT the dog!

Try it, I know your dog will love it, I did! And so did Scout!


This pose was a similar pose that Pam did in the Army although I think it was called something else and the leg on the floor was held straight out. So she says......

This is a great stretch for runners, try it and have your dog with you to guide you in the twist!

See you tomorrow,
Skyler

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Skyler's Training Blog- Coaching the rest of the team!


January 17, 2015-


 Okay Pam, Scout, and I have finalized their race schedule for this year.....(with a few possible races- they we going to play by ear on!) Oh our training will resume tomorrow after several days off from a slide/ fall that Pam took as she was in tow of ME!

First, their marathon training starts on February 2.....their first run/ race maybe the Run for the Hill of it 10k on March 29th.......this run/ race will be more of a run than a race, if they indeed do it!  Their training will tell us if we do indeed go ahead and run it!

 Their first official run/ race will be the St James 5 mile run on April 18th, and I must admit that these hills are just as difficult as well as ALOT more scenic and quiet.....and LONGER distances can be run on these hills, as well as SAFER! Oh did I mention you have the beach right there for the summer weather runs!

Then on May 24th, they will be running their very own marathon (hopefully raising money for Kent Animal Shelter!)......In fact, they will be running from Smithtown to Kent Shelter in Calverton. Which is 26.2 miles! You can donate to a great cause and help out those animals that only want to share their unconditional love with you, here:

To donate to my marathon fundrasier, all money goes directly to Kent Animal Shelter:

 
You can follow our training for this event on this blog as well as Scout's blog:
 
 
 
After that race, they have a few weeks of training to go..... before our next event which is....drum roll please, (oh, this event is also my event- and in fact, they will be counting on me to be their coach in  training for this event especially.......
 

 
on July 19- the NYC AMC DOGGY DASH......
I know this course and all it has to offer very well as I ran it in 2009 and 2010....so I will be sharing my expertise with Scout to prepare him for what's to come!
 
This race is a little pricey for a 5 mile race BUT  we run alongside the triathletes and halfway through the race the AMC provides vets and vet techs to check the dogs temps, provide ice baths for the dogs, and check their paws, etc....and basically cater to the dogs. Wait, what about Pam.....doesn't she get any attention?....Ok, Scout will provide that attention to her- as I  just told me as I was typing this blog that that's what I did and Pam was happy with that!
 
The race after that is the Running of the Bull 5k on September 26th, ......Pam may be training for another marathon in November at this time so they may end up doing more long runs at this time like last year!
 
Oh, the marathon would be the Myles Standish Marathon in Plymouth, MA! (The marathon that Pam missed last year!)
 
Pam will be hitting up a race that Scout will not be able to run at all- in November, which is the Northport 4k XC race... but she assures me training will be take place the next day!
 
As you can see there are not a lot of races scheduled for this year but of the races mentioned we want to do our best  at each and every one and get the full benefit of each one.....as the coach I need to get my athletes in top shape to take on these events......
 
 
After that race, they have a few weeks of training to go..... before our next event which is....drum roll please, (oh, this event is also Skyler's event- and in fact, we will be counting on Skyler to be our coach in our training for this event especially.......

WOW! I have my training plan ready for them and me to hit the ground running! Core workouts and more!
 
Happy training to one and all,
Keeping you updated on all training,
Coach Skyler
 

Friday, January 16, 2015

Skyler's Blog- Black and Blues......

January 16, 2015-
Skyler and Pam are taking it easy today....what about you?

I gotta say black and blues stink.....I may not have any black and blues but the one Pam has this week is getting in the way of our training! Today, we didn't even do a pose for you today......having things turned around due to injury (even if just a black and blue and boo boo.....) really turns life around. Don't get me wrong Pam has been able to get things done BUT not having run or workout in last few days because of her black and blue mark hurting too much is getting to her, ME, Sandy, Candycane, and Scout. I mean we have to listen to Scout.......

 
And as much as Pam wants to head out and come back and continue our workout, she knows that her thigh will be hurting and time heels all wounds!
 
How cliché, right? But oh so true......
 
We are allowed one day off from blogging with a new pose.....I promise I will get Pam to do a new pose tomorrow....
 
We are planning some new things for February......some of these things will be disclosed soon I promise.
 
One thing we are planning on doing is to put together a Doga Video of different poses and moves.....We were already asked to do this by someone. Scout and Pam will also be putting together a Pupilates video as well in February, thankfully we have a lot of our poses already.....but we will be putting our poses together into a proper workout! Ya ready?....I know I am.....today Pam and I were putting our heads together to come up with a great workout for you!
 
We will be making our video available to our clients, by mid February we hope. Keep tuned in here on this blog to see when it is released!
 
Have a great night,
Skyler
 

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Skyler's Blog- Shavasana

January 15, 2015-

Pam and I shared our practice today with Sandy and Scout......Still recovering a little from her slide down the hills this week, Pam decided to take things down a notch again!

Today's pose is a Silent Relaxation also known as Shavasana.

Check the video out: We all do the pose together!

https://youtu.be/fsk6q1-pmMY

See you for more tomorrow,
Skyler