Emma Smith, the Dog of Dog Days Playcare, 1/6-1/10

Emma Smith is the DOTW for 1/6-1/10! Who am I kidding? Emma isn't DOTW; she is The Dog of Dog Days. Emma was my chocolate Lab, who passed away in November 2011 at the ripe old age of 13.5. Emma was the reason there WAS a Dog Days Playcare - I built it for her, so she could come with me to work every day. She was a Lab Rescue, my first real dog as an adult, and my heart dog. She taught me so much - to be selfless, to enjoy life every day, to see beauty in the simple things, to understand the importance of family, whatever family means to you. She knew every dog that stepped foot in Dog Days (she was the first interview dog), and she owned this place, and everyone (dog and human) knew it. She could be demanding, spoiled, incredibly sweet and gave the best hugs EVER. She knew when you needed her, and was always there. She was the best socialized dog I've ever met, and no one was a stranger; she loved everybody. I could go on, but I know everyone who knew her (and probably those who didn't) understand. This place was never the same without her, but, like her, it will live on in my memories, always. I love you Emma, and miss you as much today as I did the day I lost you. I will see you again someday, at the Rainbow Bridge.

Hoping Daddy doesn't notice she's sitting on the Cheetos bag, at the daycare

One of my favorite pictures of her - she loved the snow

Murphy Smith, DOTW for 12/30-1/3!

Murphy Smith is the DOTW for 12/30-1/3! Since Dog Days is closing, I thought it fitting to make each of my dogs a DOTW for the remainder of our time. Murphy is this week's DOTW. Murphy is my 9.5 year-old Lab/Border collie mix, and Murphy's been coming with me to Dog Days since I brought him home from Lab Rescue at the age of about 7 months. Murphy is very very smart, and very sweet, and loves me more than almost anything. He's got a bit of separation anxiety when I'm not around, and resorts to either whining (and garnering hugs from the staff) or, if he's at home, carrying around one of my shoes in his mouth. He thinks he's a person, and regularly sits at the kitchen table with us as we eat lunch - I think he wants to be a part of everything. He loves his sister Leeloo and tolerates his brother Colson (and sometimes even plays with him). But his favorite thing in the world is his mama. Murphy has slowed down a little since he's gotten older, but he still has a bit of spunk, and can still outrun his siblings when he wants to. He's my main man, and certainly deserves his place in the spotlight as this week's DOTW. Congratulations, buddy. I love you! Woo woo!

At the daycare, looking for mama

Enjoying some backyard sunshine

Run, Murphy, run!