The song dog

20081231-_MG_4552
Originally uploaded by craighalp

Those who have personal contact with me are aware that I have been in the hospital. I was able to return home yesterday.

Late last night, I woke up to go to the little girl's room. As I padded sleepily into the bathroom, I heard the most welcome sound of several coyotes yip-yapping and yaroo'ing. It was very close. I opened blinds.. but saw nothing.

I hurried to wake my husband, so he could also enjoy their welcoming home song. Of course, then our 6 dogs just had to take that moment to want out. I was afraid that would end the concert for sure.

Our dogs simply do not like intruders. They bark at possums, foxes, rabbits, deer, raccoon, cats, and other dogs that wander through on their travels. Meter men are verboten! They let us know just about everything that goes on.

Last night was magical. In the cool night air, the dogs just stood there... listening to the magical sounds of the coyote. So distinctive. So clear. So blessed.

I truly felt as if they (the coyotes) came to welcome me back home.

Mini Interview with Shreve Stockton

I'm quite certain you have all read the DailyCoyote blog. Shreve's book is coming out soon. Here is a link to a mini interview .

Shreve has moved her blog to dailycoyote.net . Be sure to update your bookmarks.

I can't wait to receive my copy of Shreve's book.

Chainsaw Carving of Howling Coyote

When Ike rolled through Ohio on its way to Canada, I was in fear for the tree in my front yard. Having already had one tree fall on our house... I didn't relish the thought of a second.

Weekend after the big windy storm, I had the offending tree laid down. Left with a 5 ft stump, we decided to call a chainsaw carver to turn the unsightly stump into a one of a kind work of art.

The carver is doing the carving that depicts the fur.

The photo below shows the completed carving, though nature is still doing its thing. Different coloration patterns are still developing that lend a natural look to the coyote. The sawdust was left and the discarded pieces of wood strewn about the base to create a natural setting for a coyote. Solar lights were placed around the circle. Next year we are going to look for the perfect tall grass to offset the display. Our house number will be placed on the base of the carving.

Time just flies

I can hardly believe so much time has passed since my last post here. Life happens.

Sasha has been on my mind again. It's time to talk about her some more.

Sasha is doing some scent rolling on top of her house in the above photo. It was IBC Rootbeer that had her attention.

Sasha loved perching on top of her house when interacting with us or just when she was watching the world go by. Very rarely did she actually go into the house. It was always on top of or beneath the house. We finally figured out that she didn't like being inside the house because she had no escape route if "fight or flight" kicked in.



Sasha looks quite pleased with herself. We had just finished a fun game with her chasing the cat lure toy. She is catching her breath and having a rest on the couch.

Cats and many dogs love to play with laser lights, chasing them.. pouncing them. Sasha watched this behavior with curiosity. She even joined in the fun until she realized where the light was coming from and just who was manipulating the laser. The light then ceased to be interesting to her. Ironically, we have had two huskies over time that refuse to play with laser lights for the same reason.

In Memory of Mariah

I have received an email from CeAnn advising me that Mariah was euthanized on June 11, 2008. CeAnn provided Mariah with many more years through her generosity and the generosity of donors that helped by contributing to a medical fund for Mariah. Not every coyote is healthy or beautiful.. there are those who are born with problems, such as Mariah.

I cannot tell you what I feel about CeAnn... who instead of euthanizing Mariah as a pup, has housed and cared for her. Coming to know her and love her. CeAnn is quite sad indeed.

I posted a video of Mariah and puppies some posts back. Feel free to visit Indiana Coyote Rescue Center site (there is a link at the bottom of this post and in the sidebar) to read more about Mariah's health problems. And perhaps to be kind enough to send CeAnn a sympathy note.

I also would like to mention that CeAnn has taken in 3 coyote puppies this year as well as a red fox. The coyote puppies are going to need a pen. The enclosure is estimated at $1300.00. Please consider making a tax deductible donation to the ICRC to give these puppies the same loving care that Mariah enjoyed.

Raise your head and howl in her memory.

Indiana Coyote Rescue Center .

The Daily Coyote

I must applaud Shreve and her recent post, Wow. I Guess This Really Needs to be Said.

Anyone that has followed Shreve's blog and mine, will recall that I once had some issues with Shreve's blog. My issues had to do with the fact I felt there would be those who wanted to raise a coyote because of her experience because it was "cool".

In fact, my blog was a response to my issues with the Daily Coyote . Charlie has grown into quite the handsome boy. Shreve has done an excellent job being a "coyote mom". I, for one, cannot wait for her book to come out. I want to know more about her experiences!

I must admit to being somewhat envious that Charlie imprinted on people (and Eli!). It makes a huge difference. Sasha was already a good 8 or 9 weeks when she came to live with us. I would have loved to have her at an earlier age.

Raising a coyote is not something I would recommend to the average person. It is a huge commitment. And I'm talking the kind of commitment that spans years. A captive coyote can live 15 years. That is a pretty big chunk of life to devote to an animal that is hated by most of the country.

I used to worry about Charlie's welfare.. but I don't anymore. Charlie is in very capable hands.

Thank you, Shreve... for caring for one of God's dogs. There aren't all that many people out there that can truly appreciate what you have gone through. As one of those blessed by the spirit of coyote... thank you.

I have been conspicuously absent from posting. I have had some medical problems, including being in the hospital for a week. One of the highlights of my days in the hospital were visiting the Daily Coyote for my Charlie "fix". In the days ahead, I will be posting a variety of photos, including foxes and wolves.

CeAnn and the puppies

CeAnn is the founder of the Indiana Coyote Rescue Center in Indiana. Her life revolves around the coyotes in her care. These are two of the 2007 pups who have made the center their home for life.

While coyotes can bond to people, their bonds tend to be with one or two people... and the remain wary of others. Some very social coyotes will allow themselves to be touched at arms length, allowing them ample time to make a get away if needed.

I have not been feeling well the past couple weeks. I will get back to more regular posting as soon as I can.