Friday, April 8, 2016
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Be Still My Heart - Plan Three - (lyrics)
Wanted to share my lyric video of Plan Three's amazing song "Be Still My Heart" - using an old XP system w/ Office2007 made it a challenge, I forgot how much of the effects and transitions from PowerPoint would NOT carry over into a Windows MovieMaker file, the PPT is much better, but, 'til I upgrade my MS Office software, it's the way I gotta do it.
Please check out this lyric video on YouTube - likes, comments, criticisms, etc... are all welcome.
I want to do a LOT more of these, so be on the lookout if you like this one!
Thanks!
Saturday, February 13, 2016
You Would Be 27 Years Old Today...
Eleven birthdays have now passed since you left us, & I can honestly say that as the years have passed I am no longer angry that you are gone, but I am still sad... I don't think there is any way to "get over" sad. The chunk of my heart that broke when you died is still broken, pieced together with a glue made up of memories, of smiles, & of good times and taped over with all the love a mother could ever have for her son.
You would be 27 years old today, twenty-seven years since the first time I held you in my arms and saw your beautiful face and through my tears of joy told your granny "It's a boy, Momma - I gave him a son" (meaning your real dad of course) - but you were MY son from that first day on, you were my reason to smile, my pride, my love, & You still are, Rog.
You'd be a man now, & instead of knowing, I have to wonder just what kind of man you would be- would you be a husband, a father, what would you have chosen to be? A football player (your dream), a musician (your secret I never even dreamed of til you picked up that guitar at the store and started playing "One" by Metallica and literally blew my mind), a coach, so many things you could be today instead of being a memory...
You were a hero to your baby sister, who now has her OWN baby and I know that you would be right there every minute you could stealing that sweet little girl away from her momma & that she would love you just as much as all of us do. You would be so proud of Amanda the "grown-up" - I know that I am. She is a fantastic Mom, a hard worker, and the best daughter a mother could ever hope for. She, too, has scars that will never heal from losing you so soon, but she bears them with courage and with pride. She's an amazing young woman, and the 2 of you are the best things I ever did in my life.
You blessed all of us with the privilege of knowing you and being part of our lives - those who called you friend were the luckiest people in the world, whether they knew it or not, but it was and is an HONOR to be the one who called you "Son" (or "brother", or "nephew", or "uncle", or "cousin").
I believe you are looking down from Heaven and watching over us all, I also believe that sometimes you are right here by my side when I really need you. I believe that the day will come that I see you again - those freckles, those eyes, that smile - & that I will be able to say all these things to you instead of about you...
Sometimes I don't think I can wait another day for that day to come... But I know that decision is not mine to make, when it is my time and the Lord calls me Home I know you will be waiting there to greet me & it will be as if we were never apart - until then I will hold you in my heart, my mind, and my memories and hope that somehow you can know how much you are missed and how much you are loved, by so many, still.
Happy 27th Birthday Roger Joseph Long
With all the Love I have,
Momma
You would be 27 years old today, twenty-seven years since the first time I held you in my arms and saw your beautiful face and through my tears of joy told your granny "It's a boy, Momma - I gave him a son" (meaning your real dad of course) - but you were MY son from that first day on, you were my reason to smile, my pride, my love, & You still are, Rog.
You'd be a man now, & instead of knowing, I have to wonder just what kind of man you would be- would you be a husband, a father, what would you have chosen to be? A football player (your dream), a musician (your secret I never even dreamed of til you picked up that guitar at the store and started playing "One" by Metallica and literally blew my mind), a coach, so many things you could be today instead of being a memory...
You were a hero to your baby sister, who now has her OWN baby and I know that you would be right there every minute you could stealing that sweet little girl away from her momma & that she would love you just as much as all of us do. You would be so proud of Amanda the "grown-up" - I know that I am. She is a fantastic Mom, a hard worker, and the best daughter a mother could ever hope for. She, too, has scars that will never heal from losing you so soon, but she bears them with courage and with pride. She's an amazing young woman, and the 2 of you are the best things I ever did in my life.
You blessed all of us with the privilege of knowing you and being part of our lives - those who called you friend were the luckiest people in the world, whether they knew it or not, but it was and is an HONOR to be the one who called you "Son" (or "brother", or "nephew", or "uncle", or "cousin").
I believe you are looking down from Heaven and watching over us all, I also believe that sometimes you are right here by my side when I really need you. I believe that the day will come that I see you again - those freckles, those eyes, that smile - & that I will be able to say all these things to you instead of about you...
Sometimes I don't think I can wait another day for that day to come... But I know that decision is not mine to make, when it is my time and the Lord calls me Home I know you will be waiting there to greet me & it will be as if we were never apart - until then I will hold you in my heart, my mind, and my memories and hope that somehow you can know how much you are missed and how much you are loved, by so many, still.
Happy 27th Birthday Roger Joseph Long
With all the Love I have,
Momma
My Menopause - A LONG Season in Hell
Menopause... No two stories are the same... Here's mine.
I swear, this has to be hands-down the worst experience a woman goes through - not just because of the inconvenience, but because NO TWO WOMEN HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE!! There is no manual, no place for expert advice (at least not accurate advice, anyway), and no way to take a pass on eventually dealing with it...
I will be 49 in September 2016. For me, it has been & continues to be a living nightmare for close to a decade now. I bet I am not the only one who feels this way, either. So let's compare notes, women! I'm gonna share my experience so far, and invite any reader who is as bewildered as I have become to comment with your own stories, if nothing else it may make some of us feel a little better!
I didn't really have anyone to talk to when my pre-menopause first started. My Mom died at 49 in 1993, and she was honestly the only older woman who I had for this type of thing. Most of my friends, co-workers, etc.. are either my age or a couple of years younger, so they didn't know any more than me...
My hot flashes started in my mid-late thirties, and at that time I honestly believed that was a GOOD sign- that maybe I would start & finish early -- HA HA!
The hot flashes I have are not restricted to what is referred to as "night sweats" - mine are unpredictable, day or night, awake or asleep, at home or somewhere else- they are easy to identify, a boiling heat starts in the core of my body climbing to my head and exploding - sometimes I can take a shower and before I even get a chance to dry off, I already need another one & feel like I never even got one to begin with. There is no pattern of predictability as to when to "expect" them, sometimes I may go weeks without a single episode, other times, I may have them multiple times a day for days running. (I refer to those times as "rolling hot flashes")- it may not seem like any big deal, if you have never had them- but if you have, you know just how bad they are.
My periods are also totally unpredictable now. From the first one I ever had (at 14) til the hot flashes started, I lived a charmed existence in this area. I was as regular as clockwork, one day of mild cramps before the start, one heavy day, then 2-3 spotty days and that was the end til the next month! Now is a whole different ball game, though. I may go 2-4 months and never have a period at all (which usually starts a celebratory feeling of HURRAH!! IT'S FINALLY OVER) - then I get hit with one that comes like a flood, so much pain the first 2-3 days I can barely function, so much flow I usually have to change & shower if I even stand UP - and these can go on for weeks without end. The longest one lasted 8 straight weeks, & I was so weak, anemic, & downright terrified that I went to the ER only to be sent home with no answers at all. These monster menses average 2-3 weeks & there is no guarantee of getting another multi-month break til it happens again, either. Christmas 2015 brought me a 3-week long hemorrhage - and then one week after it stopped, another one, even worse than that one started up.
The affect these damn things have on me- both physically and emotionally, are horrible. And in terms of emotions, I am more often than not, a wreck. I have thrown myself on the bed and cried til I am literally exhausted, had temper-tantrums like a spoiled child who didn't get their way, been so furious I just want to kill, and so miserable I wished I would die. My poor husband tries to deal with my insanity as best he can (and he is really great) but admits I scare him when I get out-of-control like this. And who could blame him, I scare myself!
Other problematic side-effects don't help, for example, I try to maintain a healthy diet, I get plenty of exercise, etc.. but cannot lose weight - and the "menopause belly" I have been working to fix for years is just disgusting to me. My self-image is so low I can hardly even look at my body - before this started, I had never been larger than a size 7-9, I have watched the body I took such good care to keep up go all the way to a 16-18 - even though I did not let myself get lazy or over-eat, or eat fatty food, empty calorie stuff, or anything of that nature. It is so discouraging to try so hard and achieve absolutely nothing.
I hear that menopause affects sex-drive differently, some women get highly charged, while others turn almost frigid... Since I am trying to be honest here, I have always been a sex-maniac. For real. And now, even more so than before, again, for real! I never get enough, no matter how much we are having. That could be considered a plus - except for the fact I spend so much time with the unnaturally heavy, long periods - the emotional roller-coaster moods, and the new insecurity because of the way my body looks. I do everything in my power to make sure my husband never sees me totally naked anymore, figuring that if I am disgusted by my appearance, he will probably be even MORE so.
And how much longer will this miserable transition last??
NO ONE CAN SAY!
Officially, a woman has entered menopause when she has gone a full year (12 months) without a period. Well when in the HELL is THAT gonna finally happen??
NO ONE CAN SAY!
A dark period of life, surrounded by more questions than answers, an era of spare clothes, wild emotions, and frequent blocks of time where I do everything I can to avoid going anywhere, so that I won't have to embarrass myself anywhere public with sweat, blood, or tears. Becoming a bit of a hermit (I am usually a social extrovert) is also contributing to my mental instability- sometimes I fear that I may really be insane by the time I finish this transition.
And when a younger woman (or any man) tries to talk with me on the subject of my weight and body image, I just want to STRANGLE them when they start giving me the diet and exercise spiel because they really don't understand that has no relation to what my body is doing to betray me- it continues to do what it is doing IN SPITE OF ALL MY HARD WORK AND EFFORT!
Anyone who has found relief, given up, or just want to vent about YOUR own personal menopause experience, would love to hear from you.
I swear, this has to be hands-down the worst experience a woman goes through - not just because of the inconvenience, but because NO TWO WOMEN HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE!! There is no manual, no place for expert advice (at least not accurate advice, anyway), and no way to take a pass on eventually dealing with it...
I will be 49 in September 2016. For me, it has been & continues to be a living nightmare for close to a decade now. I bet I am not the only one who feels this way, either. So let's compare notes, women! I'm gonna share my experience so far, and invite any reader who is as bewildered as I have become to comment with your own stories, if nothing else it may make some of us feel a little better!
I didn't really have anyone to talk to when my pre-menopause first started. My Mom died at 49 in 1993, and she was honestly the only older woman who I had for this type of thing. Most of my friends, co-workers, etc.. are either my age or a couple of years younger, so they didn't know any more than me...
My hot flashes started in my mid-late thirties, and at that time I honestly believed that was a GOOD sign- that maybe I would start & finish early -- HA HA!
The hot flashes I have are not restricted to what is referred to as "night sweats" - mine are unpredictable, day or night, awake or asleep, at home or somewhere else- they are easy to identify, a boiling heat starts in the core of my body climbing to my head and exploding - sometimes I can take a shower and before I even get a chance to dry off, I already need another one & feel like I never even got one to begin with. There is no pattern of predictability as to when to "expect" them, sometimes I may go weeks without a single episode, other times, I may have them multiple times a day for days running. (I refer to those times as "rolling hot flashes")- it may not seem like any big deal, if you have never had them- but if you have, you know just how bad they are.
My periods are also totally unpredictable now. From the first one I ever had (at 14) til the hot flashes started, I lived a charmed existence in this area. I was as regular as clockwork, one day of mild cramps before the start, one heavy day, then 2-3 spotty days and that was the end til the next month! Now is a whole different ball game, though. I may go 2-4 months and never have a period at all (which usually starts a celebratory feeling of HURRAH!! IT'S FINALLY OVER) - then I get hit with one that comes like a flood, so much pain the first 2-3 days I can barely function, so much flow I usually have to change & shower if I even stand UP - and these can go on for weeks without end. The longest one lasted 8 straight weeks, & I was so weak, anemic, & downright terrified that I went to the ER only to be sent home with no answers at all. These monster menses average 2-3 weeks & there is no guarantee of getting another multi-month break til it happens again, either. Christmas 2015 brought me a 3-week long hemorrhage - and then one week after it stopped, another one, even worse than that one started up.
The affect these damn things have on me- both physically and emotionally, are horrible. And in terms of emotions, I am more often than not, a wreck. I have thrown myself on the bed and cried til I am literally exhausted, had temper-tantrums like a spoiled child who didn't get their way, been so furious I just want to kill, and so miserable I wished I would die. My poor husband tries to deal with my insanity as best he can (and he is really great) but admits I scare him when I get out-of-control like this. And who could blame him, I scare myself!
Other problematic side-effects don't help, for example, I try to maintain a healthy diet, I get plenty of exercise, etc.. but cannot lose weight - and the "menopause belly" I have been working to fix for years is just disgusting to me. My self-image is so low I can hardly even look at my body - before this started, I had never been larger than a size 7-9, I have watched the body I took such good care to keep up go all the way to a 16-18 - even though I did not let myself get lazy or over-eat, or eat fatty food, empty calorie stuff, or anything of that nature. It is so discouraging to try so hard and achieve absolutely nothing.
I hear that menopause affects sex-drive differently, some women get highly charged, while others turn almost frigid... Since I am trying to be honest here, I have always been a sex-maniac. For real. And now, even more so than before, again, for real! I never get enough, no matter how much we are having. That could be considered a plus - except for the fact I spend so much time with the unnaturally heavy, long periods - the emotional roller-coaster moods, and the new insecurity because of the way my body looks. I do everything in my power to make sure my husband never sees me totally naked anymore, figuring that if I am disgusted by my appearance, he will probably be even MORE so.
And how much longer will this miserable transition last??
NO ONE CAN SAY!
Officially, a woman has entered menopause when she has gone a full year (12 months) without a period. Well when in the HELL is THAT gonna finally happen??
NO ONE CAN SAY!
A dark period of life, surrounded by more questions than answers, an era of spare clothes, wild emotions, and frequent blocks of time where I do everything I can to avoid going anywhere, so that I won't have to embarrass myself anywhere public with sweat, blood, or tears. Becoming a bit of a hermit (I am usually a social extrovert) is also contributing to my mental instability- sometimes I fear that I may really be insane by the time I finish this transition.
And when a younger woman (or any man) tries to talk with me on the subject of my weight and body image, I just want to STRANGLE them when they start giving me the diet and exercise spiel because they really don't understand that has no relation to what my body is doing to betray me- it continues to do what it is doing IN SPITE OF ALL MY HARD WORK AND EFFORT!
Anyone who has found relief, given up, or just want to vent about YOUR own personal menopause experience, would love to hear from you.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Monday, May 4, 2015
All Lives Matter - Stop Racism!
 |
Enough is Enough.
We've got to stop the madness before it's too late!
|
Friday, April 17, 2015
Spoiled Rottenweiler's - Our Family
Our "Babies"
- Zeus Sr, Zina, Achilles, Hercules, Nyx, Peyton, Cerberus, Loki, & Zeus Jr -
"Then & Now" Collage
Zeus Sr (2004-2011) was the first. He was, is, and shall always be the heart and soul of our Spoiled Rottenweilers. After his death, I wrote a tribute to him which can be viewed here,
Zina (2009-present) - Wife of Zeus Sr & one of the smartest animals I have ever seen, She is the Queen of the Pack, retired from breeding with full honors.
Achilles (2011-present) & Hercules (2011-2011) Litter twins from Z & Z's first litter born January of '11.
We lost Hercules too soon, lost to illness shortly after the tornadoes plowed through our area.
We lost Hercules too soon, lost to illness shortly after the tornadoes plowed through our area.
Nyx (2011-present) From Z & Z's second litter, born August of '11
Nyx was the SOLE SURVIVOR of that litter- a bad batch of vaccinations infected the entire litter with Parvo, she somehow pulled through. She is Joe's 'favorite' and oh, my does she know it!
Peyton (2011(?)-present) - Our "rescue" addition, true age unknown - believed to be approximately the same age as Nyx.
Peyton was given to us when some folks nearby were suddenly forced to get rid of her. She came to us a shy & skittish gal - possibly mistreated - she joined our 6 and quickly became one of the pack. The best Momma dog anyone could want.
Peyton was given to us when some folks nearby were suddenly forced to get rid of her. She came to us a shy & skittish gal - possibly mistreated - she joined our 6 and quickly became one of the pack. The best Momma dog anyone could want.
And then there are the triplets--
Cerberus, Loki, & Zeus Jr (2012-present) - the last litter fathered by Zeus Sr
Still heartbroken over the loss of their Dad, I almost kept ALL the puppies from his last litter, but wound up settling for keeping just these 3 boys. I can't even count how many people came by wanting to buy one of these guys - but I couldn't let them go. They are the "babies" of the pack & yet they each outweigh me!
More puppies than I can count have passed from our home to others.
They are our family.
Still heartbroken over the loss of their Dad, I almost kept ALL the puppies from his last litter, but wound up settling for keeping just these 3 boys. I can't even count how many people came by wanting to buy one of these guys - but I couldn't let them go. They are the "babies" of the pack & yet they each outweigh me!
More puppies than I can count have passed from our home to others.
They are our family.
https://www.facebook.com/SpoiledRottweilers
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Download Safety - A Crash Course for Some Local Friends (And Whoever Else Needs It)
The majority of systems that I am asked to repair are bogged down with virus, malware, adware, & spyware that were boot-strapped into various files and programs the user downloaded from the Internet.
Instead of attaching a guideline on their desktop every time I finish a repair, I decided to create this one - so anyone who needs help with this extremely common problem can use it, anytime.
Understand that even if you follow every single step every single time your system may still get invaded, but it is much less likely to happen if you learn how to research the item, how to install it properly, and how to recognize signs that a program may not be safe before you ever download it.
Instead of attaching a guideline on their desktop every time I finish a repair, I decided to create this one - so anyone who needs help with this extremely common problem can use it, anytime.
Understand that even if you follow every single step every single time your system may still get invaded, but it is much less likely to happen if you learn how to research the item, how to install it properly, and how to recognize signs that a program may not be safe before you ever download it.
First step
should always be to search Google (or your search engine of choice) for
reviews, opinions, etc. about the software in question. And take the time
needed to read the description and recommendations at the download site, or at
the program's website. You don't want to install something that won't be
compatible with your needs or your computer.
Seeing where
it's hosted (and if its developer has a site for it) can give you some clues,
too. Try to avoid 3rd-party download sites & go directly to the source -
those 3rd-party folks just love to bundle & most of them could care less if
the extras are safe for you.
If your internet
search primarily links to a multitude of negative comments and reviews bashing
the software as being loaded with malware, spyware, viruses, and so on, you
should think twice - at least twice, before jumping in. If you can find evidence of the software
being hosted by or linked from sites you've come to trust, then the odds are
good that it's probably okay.
Always be wary
of a forced download -- like your browser telling you that you “must” install something in order to
view a Web page. Liars!! Just about the only browser plug-in you need these days
is Adobe Flash, and that should only be downloaded and installed from Adobe's
Web site -- nowhere else. Always attempt to download from the object's site of origin, even if you
have to spend some time searching the 'net to locate them.
When installing
any program, read every single step thoroughly. Whenever given a choice for
"Standard" or "Custom" Installation, you should ALWAYS
choose CUSTOM INSTALL! Read each screen carefully and opt out of installing
anything extra. In this screenshot, you would want to UN-check the boxes under
"Custom":
Sometimes, the
choice is not so straightforward – you may encounter a screen similar to this
one:
If you choose "Decline" - that applies to the
offer on this screen only, and will not prevent your chosen program from
installing. So, DECLINE & proceed!
Some installers will also give you a few browser toolbars or
"bonuses" that serve to do nothing more than clutter up your
computer. Look for boxes to un-check -- reputable software developers will give
you the option to opt out of such offers during an install.
NEVER, NEVER, NEVER
download software that's been pirated or cracked. That's got "bad
news" written all over it. There's no quicker way to compromise your
system than to use code that doesn't come from a trusted source. A LARGE
percentage of spyware, virus, and general malware originate via P2P networks
& illegitimate media.
Don't assume that, just because you're using non-Windows
operating system (like Linux or Apple's OS X) that you're safe from the threat
of a potential security breach. Most malware programmers target Windows because
it's the most used operating system in the world , but have no illusions, these
programmers, evil little leprechauns and trolls that they are, are capable of
infecting any operating system – and believe me, it does happen!
It may seem hard to believe, but many of the systems I have
repaired had NO active security to help protect their systems. Often, a
purchased system will come with some antivirus program installed, those
pre-installed programs are usually under a trial period, and when that period
has ended, it is up to YOU to either renew the subscription, find another
protection program, whatever you choose - when that time comes, PLEASE - CHOOSE
SOMETHING! Allowing your system to cruise the Internet unprotected is a great
way to turn it in to a very expensive door stopper, boat anchor, - you get my
drift right? So make sure you've always got security software running &
that the virus definitions, updates, and so on are kept up-to-date & that
system scans are run on a regular basis.
These malware writers are very experienced in using tricks
to get users to download their malware. Software that comes bundled with
"other software" is often called a Trojan Horse. For example, instant
messenger software bundled with a program such as WildTangent, a known spyware
offender. Peer-to-peer file sharing software, such as Kaaza & LimeWire,
bundle various types of malware that are categorized as spyware or adware.
Software that promises to speed up the Internet connection or assist with
downloads (e.g., My Web Search) will often contain adware.
Another common way to infect a computer can be via email
messages, which contain a seemingly benign link or email attachment; if
something pops up on your screen without you clicking, take your hands away
from the mouse and keyboard. You need to analyze this intruder before
accidentally accepting or downloading some malicious software. The following
link is another useful and well-written information source on this topic.
In summation, malware can exploit security holes in your
browser as a way of invading your machine. Sometimes websites state that
software is needed to view the site, in an attempt to trick users into clicking
"Yes" thus installing software onto their machines. Another trick is
if you click "No," many error windows display. Other sites will tell
you that using a certificate makes their site "safe" which is not the
case. Certificate verification means only that the company that wrote the
software is the same as the company whose name appears on the download prompt.
Some malware provides no uninstall option, and installs code
in unexpected and hidden places (e.g., the Windows registry) or modifies the
operating system, thus making it more difficult to remove – and sometimes even
impossible! Some of these malicious programs have the potential to literally
kill your hard drive – imagine it; every picture, every song, every document
(tax returns, payment receipts, school papers, EVERYTHING wiped out with no
hope of recovery… It is a good investment to follow the steps I have given you,
print this out & sit it right next to your system, whatever it takes to
become an informed & safe downloader.
Thanks for reading, I would love to see suggestions or tips
from others, questions, anything you want to know or want to share!
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
German or American Rottweiler? How to (REALLY) Know!
German or American?
Here is the Answer!
Here is the Answer!
This is, without a doubt, one of the most-common questions we get at SpoiledRottenweilers©.
I usually just say “American” & leave it at that, but I do realize that some of you may truly want more information, & may or may not be sure of the differences. So, I pieced this together from trusted sources to provide more information to those who REALLY want to know.
Breed standards, as judged by the kennel club guidelines are available, in depth, here- (Rottweiler Owner's Guide (outside source, purchase required). I personally do not own this guide, and provide the link as a courtesy – since they are the source of some of my information.
I usually just say “American” & leave it at that, but I do realize that some of you may truly want more information, & may or may not be sure of the differences. So, I pieced this together from trusted sources to provide more information to those who REALLY want to know.
Breed standards, as judged by the kennel club guidelines are available, in depth, here- (Rottweiler Owner's Guide (outside source, purchase required). I personally do not own this guide, and provide the link as a courtesy – since they are the source of some of my information.
The Rottweiler breed is from Germany, and originally Rome, so what determines/defines an American Rottweiler? How can you tell whether your own Rottie is German or American?
There are some (slight) differences between the two- read on to learn more.
Rottweiler origin is a common source of question & even argument. Some ‘experts’ base determination on hair length, coloration, head and/or chest size, body and/or leg length, etc… but who is right? Where does the “correct & expert” opinion come from? To provide the answer, let’s dig a little deeper, shall we?
The German Rottweiler
Research & observation have led me to the following standards for consideration…
Simplicity first – a German Rottweiler is defined as German for being born in Germany. If your Rottweiler‘s official place of birth was Germany, then your Rottweiler is defined as a German Rottweiler.
However, the German Rottweiler is not so easily defined. The Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (ADRK) does have specific, strict standards for the breed.
The ADRK includes a temperament specification; requiring that “their” Rottweiler’s are “well-suited in assisting their human companions”. This includes a strict standard guideline that the rotties possess a mild and calm personality & sharp mind. The ADRK wants their Rottweiler to be compatible for use as:
- Companion dogs
- Guide dogs for the blind and or disabled
- Security dogs
- Working dogs
- Family dogs
Additionally, a major difference is that the ADRK has a very strict no docking rule. They will not even consider recognizing a Rottweiler as ADRK if they have a docked tail.
Tail docking, or intentionally removing the animal’s tail, is still fairly common in the U.S. – but has been banned in the U.K. since 2007.
The American Rottweiler
The American Rottweiler is a loosely defined as a Rottweiler that was born in America, not in Germany.
There are many similar characteristics between the two. The main differences seem to be what the American Kennel Club (AKC) standard requirements are - as opposed to those of the ADRK. The AKC does allow tail docking, where the ADRK does not.
So, Is My Rottweiler German or American?
As you can see, there is very little difference between the German & American Rottweiler. Most of the differences are based on standards defined by the AKC and ARDK & their values and ideas as to what should be recognized as a Rottweiler.
The ADRK is primarily concerned with:
- Temperament
- Size/Weight
- Intact Tail (NO DOCKING)
The American Kennel Club allows for less-stringent size/weight requirement & accepts the docked tail as a ‘signature’ of the Rottweiler breed.
Unless the guidelines of these organizations is of vital importance to you, you can define your Rottweiler as German or American is simply by where they were born.
So – FINAL ANSWER:
If your Rottweiler was born in Germany, then they are indeed a German Rottweiler. If they were born in America, they are an American Rottweiler. Regardless of where your Rottweiler’s origins lie, there is a common thread you can be proud of – when bred & raised in a healthy, loving, environment, they are a hardy, intelligent, & loyal breed with a sweet disposition & when well-bred will provide you with a faithful friend, companion, & protector.
So – FINAL ANSWER:
If your Rottweiler was born in Germany, then they are indeed a German Rottweiler. If they were born in America, they are an American Rottweiler. Regardless of where your Rottweiler’s origins lie, there is a common thread you can be proud of – when bred & raised in a healthy, loving, environment, they are a hardy, intelligent, & loyal breed with a sweet disposition & when well-bred will provide you with a faithful friend, companion, & protector.
Regarding Registration (Our Own Reasons)
Just a side-note, when we first got involved in raising Rottweiler’s, I was under the impression that the “German Rottweiler” was longer-haired - like the one on the right in the following photo:
Just a side-note, when we first got involved in raising Rottweiler’s, I was under the impression that the “German Rottweiler” was longer-haired - like the one on the right in the following photo:
My misconception was incorrect, and came solely from the fact that when the AKC decided on breed restrictions, they decided that the long haired and rough haired Rottweiler does not “meet breed standards”. So, in my ignorance, if it wasn’t acceptable by AKC standards, it must be German – as I said, an incorrect assumption.
Additionally, I was shocked and disgusted to learn that many long haired Rottweiler puppies are euthanized! Why?? – simply because they do not meet Kennel Club standards for the breed!!
Fortunately, there are breeders who, instead of cruelly putting these ‘different-looking’ Rottweiler’s to an undeserved death, opt to separate them and sell them as ‘pet-quality’ instead of ‘show-quality’ dogs. The long haired Rottie are a very healthy breed of dog, much like the regular shorter, smoother haired version you normally see. There does not appear to be any specific diseases or genetic problems that come along with having long hair. So you don’t need to worry about any extra health issues if you are planning on including a long haired Rottweiler into your family. Additionally, the long-haired version is a rarity. Even if you bred two long-haired Rotties, odds are slim that you would see more than one or two long-haired offspring in the entire litter!
Additionally, I was shocked and disgusted to learn that many long haired Rottweiler puppies are euthanized! Why?? – simply because they do not meet Kennel Club standards for the breed!!
Fortunately, there are breeders who, instead of cruelly putting these ‘different-looking’ Rottweiler’s to an undeserved death, opt to separate them and sell them as ‘pet-quality’ instead of ‘show-quality’ dogs. The long haired Rottie are a very healthy breed of dog, much like the regular shorter, smoother haired version you normally see. There does not appear to be any specific diseases or genetic problems that come along with having long hair. So you don’t need to worry about any extra health issues if you are planning on including a long haired Rottweiler into your family. Additionally, the long-haired version is a rarity. Even if you bred two long-haired Rotties, odds are slim that you would see more than one or two long-haired offspring in the entire litter!
When asked about whether our SpoiledRottenweilers© are ‘registered’ or ‘have papers’ – my stock response is simply that we do not do so because “We sell Pets, not Papers”. It is because of guidelines as mentioned above that I refuse to endorse or support the Kennel Clubs. We guarantee our puppies are always pure-bred, and 100% Rottweiler.
Thanks to:
RottweilerHQ &
Rottweiler Owners Guide - for their invaluable assistance in the creation of this article.
Rottweiler Owners Guide - for their invaluable assistance in the creation of this article.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Fragile - Original song Written & Performed by my Brother
My brother Jason wrote & performed this amazing song - I did the video (w/ Windows MovieMaker) if you like Alternative & Progressive rock I think you will really enjoy it.
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