May contain affiliate links
Besides a problem of pounds, we continue under the painful problem of snow on the ground and in the forecast. Even this relentlessly joyful Heeler is tired of snow and wishing for a little sun and warm weather.
Oh, we have those kind and misleading warm days then BAM! Snow again.
Still there are a lot of cause for celebration going on and certainly they may contribute to that problem of pounds. This is National Pet Month – a time to honor your favorite canine with cookies, biscuits, jerky and cake – all month! https://amzn.to/39a6MR5
And maybe homemade! 
This week there was Garlic Day. 
I’m not sure how a day celebrating a seasoning rises to national prominence, but there it is. If a root bulb gets it’s own day, surely there is a Heeler Day? Well, around here, every day is Heeler Day!
And a bit of history – on April 18, 1775, Paul Revere made his famous ride. He and a few others risked everything in utter darkness, to warn of British invasion, because freedom depended on it. And he was probably riding a borrowed horse.
I should just be counting my blessings that I even got a post done this week, as the computer crashed and the old back-up was reluctant to come out of retirement. I think the problem may have been dog hair in the keyboard, but who knows? 
Now, if you follow me weekly, you know I had my annual vet visit: https://cowdogsadvice.com/2022/04/ladysmith-visits-her-doctor/
Then I shared the secret diet supplements that keep me young here: https://cowdogsadvice.com/2022/04/ladysmith-list-of-healthy-highlights/
You may also remember that I hopped on the scale at the vets, and somehow 5 – plus pounds had mysteriously found me over the winter. 
So now lets talk about the problem of pounds. I know 5 pounds isn’t much to you, but it made an impact on this athletic cowdog physique! It seems mom resents time and pounds finding her, too – she doesn’t like this getting old and fat! So together we’re going to start exercising more. She has a great and doable DVD she’s started, and it is especially helpful for older users, for pain, posture, mobility and general fitness.
When she does it, I lay on my comfy bed and watch, 
but sometimes I dance and bark for exercise, too: https://amzn.to/3L7W9MF
I’m excited to report she is building me a dandy long ramp. I can go up and down the steps OK, but sometimes I ‘m a bit stiff and would rather not, so the ramp means I’ll go out more often. 
Best of all, we will be going out every day to walk the hills, stroll the creek bottoms, feel the north-going sun on our faces. We have a long summer coming to hike, run, dance and mosey.
Walking shouldn’t be just counting steps or making miles, but a chance to look around and love our God-given blessings. 
Dad lifts weights, but I don’t think I’ll try that. I still work – I tell you, chasing cows through the brush and the bottoms is good exercise! 
I will play, run, swim! 
Do you know my doctor said he would call up Dad to urge him to stand strong when I bark at him for treats, which I do many times a day. I thought Dr Greg was on my side! But I have to remember that this body is a temple. Few have this silky red, white and blue exterior, with loyalty, love, and joy within. I do need to care for it. I will eat more green beans, carrots and blueberries and not beg for ice cream – too much.
Like I said before, us cowdogs just want to stay healthy and stick around longer – because we need to take care of you, need to herd you, and need to stay right behind you. 
And of course you need to do the same, to be here with us. 
Lets everyone get out and enjoy a walk with your own special Heeler. 
