Katoba Dobermans ~ "Don't Wanna Miss A Thing"

"Count ~ Color ~ Sex" Guessing List
One of my God-children started this before the ultrasound.
As of today, the Top Four most popular guesses are:
1.) 2 RB, 2BB, 1 RD, 2 BD ~ hey wait ... that is 7, not 6
2.) 3 BB, 2 RD, 2 BD ~ again with the "7"?
3.) 1 RB, 2 BB, 3 BD
4.) 2 RB, 1 BB, 1RD, 2 BD

Breeders guess? Heck NO! I'm too afraid to guess ... with my luck, there will be 6 more hiding in there.

"... looks like we made it ..." ~ Barry Manilow

"... a moment like this ..." ~ Kelly Clarkson

"... anticipation ... making me wait ..." ~ Carley Simon

Katoba Dobermans' Summer 2009 Breeding of the "Miss & Mister" Litter
~ The Photo Journal ~
First thought ... to Whelp Day

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Sunday, July 5, 2009 ~ 7:00pm
The majority opinion is that Misty is pregnant. I, on the other hand, have remained sceptical as to whether she is or not - I want this breeding so badly that I greatly
fear the disappointment & the waiting of several more months to repeat it should she not be. I was asked for my honest observation by one future puppy owner ...
when I told her of the posted photos of Misty last week not looking any different than other post-heats, I stated that I just did not feel certain that there was a "party
going on in there". The future puppy owner actually told me I sounded pessimistic - YIKES ... sorry ... I just did not want to raise hopes since this is NATURE - and all
is uncertain! So, after some consideration, I chose to just stop thinking about it, stop planning, stop talking "puppy" in every way ...
...and just wait until I witnessed the ultrasound imaging.
The likelihood of her taking was 50/50, right ... so how bad can waitinng a bit more waiting be ............................ hahahaha..
My emotions run high, and my patience runs thin - but, my faith runs deep. So, if it is God's will ... it WILL be.
Given ALL factors & possibilities ... noting that we will know the 'status' in less than 14 hours ... I offer the following conclusion:
If Misty is not pregnant, this is the most remarkable false pregnancy I have witnessed ...
... If Misty is indeed pregnant ... then Mr. B is, indeed, "MR WONDERFUL".

KATOBA DOBERMANS
Breeder-Owner-Handler

Int'l CH Katoba's Emerald Rain CGC RN
"Misty"
Black # 3
DOB: 03.04.07
AKC # WS216496/02
Hips: Good, OFA # DP-13204G24F-VPI
Cardiac: Normal, OFA # DP-CA564/23F/P-PI
Thyroid: MSU Normal, OFA # DP-TH642/25F-VPI
vWd: DNA Affected, VetGen # 46153
CERF: Certified 08 Normal, # DP-2095
Full Dentition

CH Marienburg's Bordeaux
"Mr. B"
Red # 7
DOB: 02.01.06
AKC # WS165984/07
Hips: Excellent, OFA # DP-12801E26M-PI
Cardiac: Holter Normal '09
Thyroid: MSU Normal, OFA # DP-TH543/26M-VPI
vWd: DNA Carrier, VetGen # 54154
CERF: not tested
Full Dentition

Puppies P e digree

Hope you enjoy the photos taken while on our overnight to Cashmere, (left click to enlarge)

These two dogs health-tested prior to breeding; all test results can be verified via one or more of the following sources:
DobeQuest OFFA Kathy Babbitt Lisa Carnes
In very limited breeding, Mr. B is already a Producer of Champion & multi pointed get ... even a Best of Breed winning puppy over Top 20 Specials.
Misty is a Group Winning IABCA Champion, CKC pointed, AKC performance titled, Certified Canine Good Citizen, who has a great deal to offer in the whelping box.
This pedigree brings together so many Top Twenty & Top Producing GREATS ~ Oozi, Eddie, Taylor, Josh, Journey, Thunder, Demon, RP, Lex ...
... and the generations of 'wonderful' behind each of them ~ to combine conformation & breeding successes with performance athletes & longevity.
With the contributions of these dogs and others, the upcoming puppies are expected to present with a level of potential beyond our imagination.

Click here to view on YouTube:
Mr.B & Misty

East of Leavonworth

River, approaching
Leavonworth

Arriving at the Carnes'

Camp North Star

The river,
west of Cashmere

Wenatchee River,
Cashmere

Waterfall,
nearly 40 miles away

Misty at the Hotel

Home of North Star
Dobermans

Misty in Carnes' house

"... I don't want to close my eyes ... I don't want to fall asleep ... I don't wanna miss a thing."
~ Aerosmith

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Left click each to see candids taken of Misty today.

Mr. B is a stunning red male who caught my eye as a pup ~ his bone and angles, impressive movement, commanding presence. When considering a future stud dog
for Misty, I cataloged several possibilities ... but, always had one in the back of my mind. I knew what specifics I was hoping to improve upon, while maintaining Misty's
attributes I do not want to lose. The breeding which produced Misty maintained a lovely head, great movement, a short back, balance, solid temperament, and drive ...
her sire brought to her more underjaw, great shoulder layback, smooth neck to shoulder transition, and those dreamy black eyes. I wanted a stud dog for Misty who
has, and comes from, lovely heads; I wanted presence ~ a "showey" stud dog; I wanted OFA Excellent hips; I wanted a pedigree strong in history; I wanted drive &
tenacity; I wanted a stud dog of substance and heavy bone; I wanted health testing with actual documentation to review; I wanted a stud dog owner who was open and
honest about all aspects of the stud dog; I wanted a physical breeding; and ... I wanted to "enhance her fancy". I was not interested in going with the over-bred "dogs
of the day" ... but, did want a stud dog who had shown some breeding successes. Since I am early in the development of my line, I had many directions in which I
could go. That said, in addition to all of the above ... ideally, I was also looking for a RED stud dog. Why red? With my "redhead", (Echo), into her Veteran years, I was
hoping to find a red male who might be gracious enough to throw me a fabulous red bitch :). Lastly, I was hoping for a vWd DNA Clear male ... but if I could not find
one who bestowed ALL of the OTHER qualities I was looking for, I would weigh the importance of all the other attributes vs. that one statistic. Misty's "daddy" wants
nothing to do with the conformation ring, but did allow me breeding rights, so this breeding means alot to me.
For all of the reasons stated, I guess you could say I was looking for "Mr. Wonderful".
While at the 2008 DPCA Nationals, I got to see so many of the dogs I had been considering for Misty's future. While they were impressive, none really caused me to
pause until ... there he was ~ 'that puppy' I had admired so much a couple of years ago was now grown up. Now, he was CH Marienburg's Bordeaux, "Mr.B". He was
being presented in the Specials ring by the lovely Tammy Miyagawa, and it was fabulous to watch. Mr. B moved around the ring deliberately & in great style; he
free-stacked with confidence and animation ... he had become a magnificent "big-boy-version" of that fabulous puppy I had thought about so many times. I felt "Mr. B"
might just be the "Mr. Wonderful" I was looking to breed Misty to in the future. Over and over, I revisited the thought of this "union". Although he is only three+ years
old, and had been bred on a limited basis, it was exciting to hear of the successes of some of his progeny. As usual, I spoke with breeders, handlers & owners who
knew the line(s) that Mr. B came from, considering the 'subjective' information on temperaments, showmanship, drive, appearance, workability and health. That "said",
I wanted some 'objectives' on health, deaths, titles & championships, photos, and I wanted to spend some time with the dog himself. I printed what test result
documentation I could on Mr. B and his ancestors from OFFA database. I gathered together Dobequest database information and magazine advertisements showing
health stats, titles & championships, and photos, (while these details can be incorrect &/or out of date, it is "published" information that we have to work with). Once I
felt confident that this was the direction I would like to go, I emailed the stud dog owner, Mrs. Lisa Carnes, (NorthStar Dobermans), about the possibilities of such a
breeding. I was thrilled to get calls back & we shared thoughts on the prospective "union"; Lisa shared more detailed information on her gorgeous red boy, whereas
she also informed me of some updated lab work on Mr. B, the most recent Holter monitor results ... and when there was a possible question about Mr. B's vWd status,
(clear vs. carrier), Lisa willingly submitted DNA to VetGen for verification, (results are pending). I introduced Misty to Lisa at a dog show in the Spring; Lisa evaluated
Misty watching her move and talking about the things she felt they could offer EACH OTHER. This was very admirable, as many stud dog owners do not see that a
breeding is a two way street when it comes to contribution. Bravo, Lisa! I was thrilled when she said she, too, felt this could be a good breeding. We worked through
the logistics; plans were put into motion. Misty came into heat & I began journal monitoring her progress through lab tests and observation.

The trip "over the mountains" to the Carnes Estate in Cashmere, WA was tentatively planned ... but nature took a detour ~
Misty came into heat more than 2 weeks earlier than was expected. So, as follows, our plans also changed.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009 ~ Day 7
We had the first blood draw to test the progesterone - which showed a level of just 0.9. This gave us a starting point. We also tested to rule out Brucellosis,
(this test is a "must" if doing a physical breeding); as expected, the result was negative for both Misty & Mr. B.
Friday, May 29, 2009 ~ Day 9
The progesterone level remained unchanged. It was still quite early. Clearly, the convenience of meeting the weekend of the Yakima dog shows was not possible;
the vet scheduled another progesterone test. She could have a slow dietrus and suddenly peak, or she could just have a longer cycle, like that of her dam.
Monday, June 1, 2009 ~ Day 12
Misty went in for the recommended progesterone test. Results will be in first thing tomorrow morning. If Misty was to hold off another several days,
then, breeding could take place during the weekend of the Puyallup Dog shows - so there would be no travel for us, (wahoo!). But, since the irony of life doesn't
usually offer me those grandiose conveniences ... hotel reservations were made, and I packed the car for the probable "Trip to Cashmere" :)
Tuesday, June 2, 2009 ~ Day 13
It is now Day 13 of color; the male dogs in my house are quite irritated by Misty's 'condition' :); weight is 69#; and the progesterone results show Monday's level at 3.5.
The lab report says she should ovulate today and be bred beginning on Thursday. We didn't want to risk 'missing' by waiting until Friday night or Saturday morning ...
... and with the stud dog living 5 hours from us - over the mountain range - I called stud dog owner; confirmed the hotel reservations (which had been generously
upgraded); arranged for "Debbie-our -SUPER-dog-sitter" to cover while Todd is at work ... and, I verified ovulation at end of day.
Thursday, June 4, 2009 ~ Day 15
We arrived in Cashmere late afternoon and waited to hear from Lisa. She came to the hotel to meet us, so we could follow her back to her home. It was a lovely drive
and a welcoming beautiful place. Misty bounded out of the car with an instant admiration fro Mr. B, who was a pro ~ but Misty was too bossy and not willing to let him
do his job in the beginning. Although Mr. B and Misty became great friends and got along beautifully, after a short time together with our assistance, John & I felt the
breeding may not happen until at least Friday morning. Lisa, on the other hand, felt they would do it on their own if we left them be. So, we trusted LIsa's instincts and
let them play ... while I was given the tour of the house and property, enjoying some delicious Kestrel wine. The evening was very hot and the lightening storm was
beautiful. But when it got dark rather quickly, we returned to the dogs. We entered the gate and there they were, in the middle of the front yard ... tied. Yes, during the
heat, light rains, and now the lightening storm. Lisa was right ~ just let nature take its course. We decided to bring them together in the AM, before we returned home.
Friday, June 5, 2009 ~ Day 16
Misty & I took a walk and had breakfast very early ... then we went to the Carnes Home for the morning. Misty, once again, ran into the front yard ... Mr. B was more
than happy to see her. Misty was a 'pro' at this point and, within a matter of minutes, they tied again ... this time for more well over half an hour. Then they ran inside
the Carnes' beautiful estate, (see photos below), & outside in the beautiful (but very hot) Eastern Washington sunshine. Lisa and I went over all the paperwork again
and signed, with hopes of great successes. Aside from my over-anxiousness & fears of missing, this event has been relatively flawless. John & Lisa Carnes were
wonderfully hospitable ~ I enjoyed getting to know them and their dogs better! I hope I can repay their generosity in the near future. The drive home was long & lovely.
Misty & I took a few scenic photos from the car window, (below), and she enjoyed several 'pit stops' to socialize and enjoy what nature had to offer.

Click here to fill out Questionnaire.
Contact Kathy at: 253.312.4839

Words from Webster

"waiting : to stay in place in expectation of ... "
"patiently : bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint"

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"Misty-Moo-Fashizzle-Boo", when she was just a "Moo-tini"
* * hey, stop laughing ... we ALL have little nicknames for our 'canine kids', right?

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June 30, 2009 ~ Weight Check and Unsceduled Palpation
Misty & I were running errands after work, when I decided to stop in to one of my vets office's to check Misty's weight ~ anything for an early "hint". She had gained 3
pounds since her last weight check, (2 days pre-breed), and was now at 71#. She is very fit, lean, hard muscled, and although I have cut out her favorite "fence
running routine" since the breeding, she does not appear fatty, just a bit out of shape. When we were about to leave, one of the vet techs who knows Misty, darted out
to bring her a cookie. I told her I wasn't sure she needed a cookie since she had gained 3 pounds in 3 weeks. Her reply was, "that's what happens when you are
pregnant". I told her I just wasn't sure she was pregnant ... or maybe I just wasn't wanting to hear that she wasn't at the upcoming ultrasound at "All Creature's". She
disagreed with me ... as a matter of fact, the consensus amongst those in the lobby, (2 vet techs and an ob/gyn who was dropping off her dog), was that Misty is
pregnant - and this, only 3 weeks post breeding. They felt the weight gain, a firm & slight thickening of the loin, and loss of tuck up was enough evidence for them. I
am very observant of my dogs, and while I agreed with them on the visuals, these are the same signs I see post EVERY heat cycle ~ false pregnancies seem to be as
issue with all my bitches - most Doberman bitches I know, actually. More specifically, I did not want my hopes raised if, in fact, she was not pregnant. Since there was
a tinge of doubt in my mind, given the outside ties, the stress Misty feels in traveling, and the excessive heat the weekend they bred, I also did not want to raise false
hope in any of the families hoping for puppies. That said, my heart DID race when I saw their enthusiasm, watching them dote over Misty's prospective "condition". All
the signs of Echo, (Misty's dam), early pregnancies were there - Misty and Echo are so much alike in so many ways - that one of the vet techs said to me, "how can
you NOT see there is a party going on in there". Privately, inside - I was already celebrating. The techs both had experience in palpation, but I was not fully
comfortable with this method or its accuracy of determining pregnancy. Nevertheless, under supervision, I thought there would be no harm in allowing them to do their
work. They were both gentle and kept it brief - due to my lack of comfort with it. They both claimed they could feel nodules. Because I limited their "groping", one
claimed she palpated 3 and the other ~ both wanted more time, but I wanted to wait for the true test - the Ultrasound. They made their declaration and gave an official
count of at least 4 pups. :) That would be delightful ... but I am still want a visual. Obviously, I'm keeping the ultrasound appointment with Dr. Sig, on Monday, July 6th.

Photos taken of Misty the day before her ultrasound ~ what do YOU think?

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The appointment was scheduled for 9:00am, with Dr. Sig Nottingham, DVM of "All Creatures Animal Hopsital", in Puyallup, Washington.
Dr. Nottingham has known Misty since she was just 3 days old, when she received her first basic exam, tail-docking and dewclaw removal.
I am very pleased with the patient treatment that Misty, (and all of my dogs), has received from "Dr. Sig" and his fellow associates, (Dr. Lindner & Dr. Sattler).
So, we arrived at exactly 9:00am. Misty weighed in at 72.9 pounds. Her weight has fluctuated by 4 pounds in 30 days post breeding. Today, although she loves the
entire staff at "All Creatures", Misty was a bit moody and not happy about being having to lay on her back on the padded V-wedge. Nevertheless, Dr. Nottingham's
charming presence calmed her, and the new tech, (Skye), was there to assist me in holding and comforting Misty. This was to be a basic ultrasound to determine
pregnancy, hopefully visualizing viable heartbeats. I was able to watch the entire screen from where I stood - next to "the Moo". Immediately upon placing the wand to
Misty's belly, Dr. Nottingham said, "oh ... well ... there are two right off the bat!". Smiles all around. "Oh my, yes", he said, "and there is another, and..." He proceeded
to go up the left side of her uterus ... there was another fetus, and possibly another ... okay, enough on that side for now, let's check the right side. One, two ... three
...... okay, that is good .... IT IS CONFIRMED, and she is DEFINITELY PREGNANT. After a confirmed 6 he believed there could be one maybe two more, but Misty was
a bit restless, and one of those "possibles" looked a bit like Misty's kidney :). We knew what we came to find out. The images were very clear - Dr. Nottingham was
quite proud of that old U/S machine now. The hearts appear strong; we were able to see heads, limbs, etc. It was beautiful and exciting.
Dr. Nottingham was all smiles, and congratulated me several times ~ giving Misty an official due date of August 8, 2009. He told me that Misty was not allowed to need
a C-Section, though ... to which I paused ... then Dr. Nottingham informed me that his daughter is getting married the weekend Misty is due ...
... he'll be back for the "tails & dews" appointment August 11, 2009. Of course, we will try to see to it that Misty does have a problem free whelp day,
but are very glad that Drs. Andrew Sattler & Coe Lindner will be available in case we need them.
Congrats to Misty, Mr. B, Katoba Dobermans, NorthStar Dobermans, and all who are awaiting a possible puppy.
The stud dog owner, Lisa Carnes, has been notified and shared her full excitement.
So ... Misty IS indeed pregnant ... Mr. B IS indeed "Mr. Wonderful" ... and I am tearfully happy.
"We prayed ~ God listened. 'Cinderella' (below) was right!"

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"... the dreams that you wish will come true ..." ~ Cinderella

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We are "waiting" ... we have no choice.
But, "patiently" ? ... ummmm, not so much !?!

Just for fun ...

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It is fun ~ & important ~ to watch the dam's
changes and growth throughout the pregnancy.
As part of my pregnancy records ~ I shoot a
'weekly' stack photo & document the weight.

4th Week
Misty is happy & content, is very active & wanting to fence run the obnoxious dogs next door, and sleeps a lot ~ underneath her blanket of course; continue doing
home checks on more prospective puppy homes; the litter has been Futurity Nominated for 2010; I made contact with the surgeon regarding the ear crops ~
tentative crop date; list of Registered Names possibilities is complete; finished design ideas for the new whelping box; bought ID ribbons & ordered small puppy
collars; updated webpage re: pregnancy confirmation; prepared official 2009 Litter Binder; Cahill feels jilted since his favorite body-slamming sister is on wrestling
hiatus; Logan is enjoying being the sole fence-runner since I am not allowing Misty to do it anymore; Tyler has become very protective and caring toward Misty; and
Echo ... well, she has now happily passed the "mom-torch" to her daughter. ~ 5 weeks to go ...

Day 53 85.9#

Day 42 78.8#

Day 49 82.6#

Day 37 76.8#

The Journey

5th Week
Excitement is building in the house as we can clearly see JUST how pregnant Misty is looking. She is filling out everywhere but is still tight as a drum; she is slowing
down a bit but refuses to give up squirrel-chasing, etc.; she is "napping" a lot more - making sure to climb underneath her blanket - and is treated to sleeping in the
bed when dad is at work :); her appetite is never satisfied - but, then, it never was before either - I have increased her breakfast grind by 1/4 cup & she gets one
extra chicken-drum at dinner. It had been hot, sunny & dry for a spell - Misty joyfully welcomed the "rain" but was disappointed there was not enough "wet" for mud
puddles :). Weigh-in shows a total gain of 8.3 pounds since the breeding - and vet says she is progressing beautifully. As for information on the "puplets" :
Foetus facts, at this stage: central nervous system fully formed; brain & spinal cord, eyes, limbs, organs, head & face continue developing; eyelids can full close;
separate male & female sexual characteristics are present; bodies are at approximately 2+ inches in length. I will add more "foetus facts" each week.
~ 4 weeks to go ...

6th Week
This has been a rather intense week. The growth of the pups is evident in the appearance of Misty's belly ... and the fact that she has gained a total of 10 pounds
without too much change in diet. [He DID say just SIX pups right? hahaha]. The rapid weight gain concerned me, but she is still fit and quite muscular. Changes in Misty:
she's become very vocal outside - announcing her presence :); is taking longer naps; is still running but at a slower pace; nutrition plan has been altered to provide
for needs at this stage of her pregnancy; loves the shower & a daily belly massage.
This weeks "Fun Foetus Facts": By this stage the puppies have taken all full "dog-like features"; digits and claws are differentiated; whisker buds are visible;
males and females are specified; retinal pigment is present; skin pigment is present; about 4-5+ inches in length.
Misty had one rough night this week, so we ran full blood labs and "Dr. Sig" called for ultrasound to reassure all was well in the 'pup den'. All is quite fine - weight
gain looks great for her; vet prescribed "Tums" for calcium, etc. Misty is now on a monitored exercise regime - no more play with sibs, as we all know dobes are
prone to "the body slam". He said she is doing beautifully. Never a dull moment with Misty! Guess I was overly concerned - but better safe than sorry, I say.
BONUS: there is an ultrasound view of a puppy - look closely and you can see details ... amazing. ~ 3 weeks to go!

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Aplets

Cotlets

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Pre-breed 68.5#

Taking the 'kids' for a jog

Eeewww ~ Misty's favorite meal:
mackeral, yams, spinach, yogurt, cheese

Tyler comforts Misty

Big mom-to-be yawn

8th Week
Day 49 brings an updated stack photo ~ not a particularly comfortable pose for Misty now but she is always willing to
do as asked. With only a minimal increase in her food, Misty gained a total of 14.1 # by Day 48 - yikes - yet, she still
finds the energy, and maintains the drive, to play, hunt, run & obedience train at home. She is ALWAYS hungry, but
maintains a calculated diet - her meals have been adjust so she eats three times a day instead of two larger meals..
As of this week, the backyard is nearly puppy-play-ready ... we just REALLY need some rain so the grass comes
back; built a whelping box ... McGyver-style; the whelping room just about ready; whelp and rearing needs still being
gathered; X-ray appointment confirmed for Saturday, August 1, 2009; Echo is the "closest" to Misty right now - the
other dogs can't figure out why Misty isn't allowed to play rough-n-tumble games - special to watch Echo passing on
some of her wisdom to her daughter - Echo is one of the toughest at play ... but only sunbathes with Misty now ...
GREAT mentor; Misty's coat is absolutely luxurious; sleeps as much as she can - too hot to be under covers now;
has to go out for a potty break every couple hours.
Fun Foetus facts: the pups are real "puplettes" - resembling puppies; hair is sprouting; all systems completing final
stages of development for viability outside the womb; bodies getting bigger, stronger, and ready for whelping; lots of
movement; continued positive interaction with, support of, and affection for the dam affects puppies.
July 26, 2009 ~ day 51 ~ Misty is enormous. It is exceptionally hot today & is supposed to reach at least 100 degrees
tomorrow. Washington State - Air Conditioners? Not so much. Buying new kid-pools for the backyard. Misty loves to
sunbathe, she instead chose to take a couple laps around the yard just long enough for me to take a few photos,
and now she is asleep ... ... laying in front of the fan listening to Darius Rucker sing "Alright" (see photo below).
You can see, in Misty's Day 53 stack photo, she is stuffed-with-pup and the milkbar is ready. We are experiencing a
week of record heat in Washington, (today it is to be over 100 degrees), so i am off to buy the dogs a new wading
pool. This has been Misty's favorite "sun activity" since she was just a wee-pup.
Lastly ... any and all prayers offered up for a litter of SIX ... are joyfully welcome & appreciated!!!
~ 10 Days to go

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Right after dinner

Ultrasound room

Ultrasound image of pup, 30 days gestation

Dr. Nottingham, Misty, Skye

Misty ... camera shy??

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"... fashizzle ba-dizzle ..." ~ Snoop Dogg

Saturday, August 1, 2009
Labor actually began prior to the Xray appointment ~ Misty had stepped into the whelping box after eating only 1/2 of her breakfast; scratched around a bit (nesting),
but then walked out and waited by the door for me. She had not enjoyed her morning exercise routine, and was panting (although she has been doing that for a week
due to the ridiculously high heat). So, to give it a time, we will give it the vet appointment time of 10:00am.
Following her appointment, I knew I had only one day to prepare for the impending whelp of the puppies - now NINE in number. While I was gathering a few bulky
blankets & things to take to the cleaners to wash, Misty went back to the whelping box. hmm. Then, back out again. Then she went outside and began a slower, but
still enthusiastic, run. I loaded the things into the car brought her back inside and got her comfortable upstairs. I secured the other dogs, and went to my car.
Something just did not feel right, so i went back into the house ... to find Misty standing in the middle of the kitchen, squatting down and pushing. I called Cathy to let
her know I really thought we would be "having puppies TODAY", and she was welcome to come any time. I looked at Misty to see a puppy crawling out of her. Yes,
literally ... you could see the pup doing gymnastics on the way out.
2:37pm ~ The first puppy arrives ... what a sweet surprise, "IT'S A GIRL". Misty took the placenta while I rubbed the little black beauty down, albeit she was already
squacking and wiggling. 11.5 ounces of lovely. Just as soon as the mess was cleaned up & all had quieted down with purple collar girl nursing away ... number two
arrives. 2:58pm ~ "IT'S ANOTHER GIRL !!" Another black girlie ~ pink collar. Same routine ... then I sat and gave thanks for the smooth sailing thus far. I snappped a
quick photo. Suddenly, number three - 3:53pm. Sheesh, that is the third pup in an hour. Misty was amazing!! Low and behold ... IT'S ANOTHER black GIRL. I couldn't
believe it. 11 ounce Light Blue Collar girl is a feisty one - has a LOT to say!! Cleaned everything up and sat for what I thought might be a break now - Misty was
sleeping and the girls were nursing. WRONG ... 4:17pm ~ number FOUR arrives - ANOTHER GIRL .. but this time she's a redhead. 10.5 ounce Orange collar girl is
precious. Then, there is a knock at the door ... and in walks Cathy - SHOCKED to find there are already FOUR puppies. She brought the scale, (we immediately
weighed the first four), and by the time we had settled in to observe ... yep, you guessed it, another pup. 5:15pm ~ black, cute, 10.5 ounce ... yellow collar GIRL!!! So.
Misty has had 5 puppies in 2 & 1/2 hours, and they are ALL GIRLS so far. 6:00pm exactly, we welcomed into the world ... our first BOY!! 10.5 ounce Black collar boy
... and he is RED. Wahoo! Then, almost immediately ... 6:23pm ~ "Mr.B's mini-me" arrives ~ a gorgeous, red, 12.3 ounce Navy collar boy. Misty took a break - all
pups were nursing or sleeping. Purple collar girl had only stopped nursing when we removed pups for a birth - otherwise ... "chow-hound"! 59 minutes is not what I
would call a break, but it was enough for Misty, and at 7:22pm she presented a lovely 10.5 ounce red girl. She is to be red collar. Without further delay - just twelve
minutes later ... 7:35pm ~ an amazing BLACK BOY was born. The only black male ... and he is a determined beauty. Weighing 10.5 ounces, he is the Green collar.
Cathy was a fabulous "hand me this, give me that" gal. AWESOME "whelper-helper", and I am glad she asked to be here, especially since she owns Misty's sire.
Made it even more special. Misty did a GREAT job, and seems to have the instincts that a protective and loving dam should have. Misty had all nine pups in just under
5 hours - completely void of complication!! I am shocked & surprised by the number of girls in this litter. Given I have only had 4 out of 17 previous pups. it is WUITE a
delight! Cathy has now gone home; I am adrenaline drained; and we are all tired and needing rest - especially Misty ... WOW! I spent some time with the other dogs -
who seem completely un-phased by the event - other than the fact that they felt jilted being stuck in their pens for hours, (with only one potty break and a few pets and
kisses), throughout the event. I could not be more proud of Misty - she is amazing ... and these puppies are incredibly beautiful ~ nice heads, lots of angle, fancy, full
ribcages, long necks, thick tails/good bone, great tailsets, nice rears. They don't seem to be bothered by my handling of them; they are up on rear leg nursing;
scooting around the whelping box to follow mom, responding to the 'sounds' she is making at them, and they are only a few hours old. AWESOME. A few of them are
"'highly opinionated" - especially the two red bitches (orange and red collars), and the lt.blue collar black bitch. Orange collar has something about her that draws me
to her - can't put my finger on it specifically, yet ... but she has me mesmerized. Light Blue is cute-snotty and vivacious in character. Red collar seems to be a "female
version" of her black collar red brother. Black collar boy is very patient and sweet - reminds me of Tyler and Rock. Green collar boy seems quite bright, sensory alert,
sensible, and determined - I see a performance potential here already. Thus far, navy collar boy is cuddly and I think will be a 'showman' - aside from the fact that he
is extra fancy, he has a bit of a quiet "attitude": if it isn't about him, then he could care less!! Pink collar girl is a pretty, prissy little thing - knows what she wants and
when she wants it - mouthy. Purple collar is beautiful - has an elegance and gracefulness about her - another one that has captivated me ... and, Cathy's favorite from
the beginning. Yellow collar girl has an amazing frame ... one of the most balanced (for a newborn), and most correct. Her only downfall at this stage? she has a very
bold head - I LOVE the head ... on Vedder ... so, we will see how it evolves ~ otherwise, she looks lovely.
Overall, the litter is VERY consistant - in birth weight, in quality, in all thigs important. I am extremely pleased with the entire event.

"... we are family ..." ~ Pointer Sisters

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"... isn't she lovely ... isn't she Wonderful ..." ~ Stevie Wonder

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"... how do ya like me now ?" ~ Toby Keith

could this be Josh & Sara's puppy?

Gooooood Morning, America!

cooling down in the shade

... go, Go, GO... I can catch it ...
... I can, I can, I can ...

Day 49
Pre-Wave

Enjoy some of the First Pictures of Mr. B & Misty's "family" ...

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No close-ups, please...
... I feel puffy

It feels like there's a small
"village" in here.

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7th Week
This week: start getting yard ready for puppy-play again; buy materials for new whelping box; confirmed ear crop
appointment date; stock up on whelping & rearing needs; approved another show home; TRY to get Misty's
cooperation with photos, (usually a camera-hog, she's become a bit worried about her waistline now - hahaha) ...
This weeks behaviors: naps prevail over "squirrel hunting" :); walks are better than runs; appetite is never satisfied;
loves the shower, belly massage ... and sunbathing; is extremely obedient, ("first response"); is VERY glad Tyler is
home from his weekend away at the show with Cathy; thinks Tums are canine candy; loves added bananas, mashed
sweet potatoes, shredded romaine & cottage cheese; this weeks favorite reward treat: watermelon chunk; believes
the Dremmel is evil; and she watches - actually WATCHES - "Twilight". (uh oh ... my secret is out!!).
Day 47
With the heat, Misty has been limited to early morning exercise ... 'running' the fence opposite the neighbor's Scottie
remains her favorite morning game. The movement of the puppies can not only be felt, but can be 'seen' when she is
still. Today, Misty premiere's in her OWN gestational YouTube video - (hahaha), "Misty Morning Run". There has
been so much growth in this one week, that I am praying that I can count on that estimated puppy count of "SIX". I'm
beginning to feel there may be more ... or ... if there are just the expected "6", I think they'll be of good size. I
honestly CANNOT believe I questioned whether she was pregnant in the beginning - sheesh!
Since there was so much change in herr this week, I am posting a few extra photos ...
... compare from days 42 to day 48 Lastly ..... enjoy the mini YouTube video of Misty's Day 47 morning exercise,
("Misty Morning Run") ~ WOW ... only 2 weeks to go

Wahoo ...
... there goes a squirrel ...

"... what a difference you've made in my life ..." ~ Ronnie Milsap

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Ugh~ up the tree ... I can
make it ~ but "the kids" can't

Glowing!

Gestation Day 49 ~ those pups are clearly growing every day, but, that doesn't stop
Misty from enjoying the morning run (left), and a bunny-chase adventure, (right)

Click here to view YouTube:
Misty Morning Run

(Remember ... left click on any photo to enlarge)

a girls gotta watch her figure

Left Click to enlarge photos

The appointment is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2009 and 10:30am. This being Gestation Day 56, we are about one week until the "official whelp date". Today,
Misty weighed in at 89.8# . HOLY CCW ! This brings her total weight gain to 21.3#. Misty is quite uncomfortable, to say the least; is not really wanting breakfast today
and did not enjoy her morning the way she usually has ... she is getting close. She has begun nesting, and this morning she begun 'visiting' the whelping box as she
pleases, (now that I FINALLY finished building and preparing it). She is much more attached to me today ... if I didn't know better, I would think she was starting labor -
based on her mothers behaviors at this same time. As for the rest of the family: Todd is working a LOT this week ... after all, the "moo" wasn't due for another week. I
will be spending next week prepping for the impending whelp day. Logan seems to be "overly aware" of Misty's size ~ she will back against the wall if Misty wants to
pass her in the hall, and will actually 'scoot over' to the very edge of a dog bed to let Misty lay by her. Cahill is VERY frustrated that misty isn't playing with him (they
are true Doberman WWF's). Tyler just licks her ears and pampers Misty. Echo shares nearly everything she has with Misty - shocking, I know ... as we all know Echo
does NOT "share" ANYTHING ... EVER, (hahahaha). So, the day of the Xray had finally arrived ~ was it six ... or was it seven?
As it happened, Cathy Ceely (Misty's sire's owner), was at the vet office prior to our appt., and wanted to stay. She predicted 10 puppies ... and that Misty would go
early - and even went so far as to say Misty would whelp within a day. TC (Misty's favorite vet tech), took Misty back for her x-ray and then returned her to the room
without saying a word to me. hmmm - she was usually so talkative. Then, when Dr. Nottingham's walked into the room - also not looking at me, and asked, "what were
you hoping for again??" I quickly and affirmatively reminded him that HE had said "6, maybe seven puppies". Sig put his thumb up in the air. "Oh no,...(choke here),
okay, I can handle eight, but...". Visions of another dozen ran through my mind. Sig's thumb kept pointing upward. I sat down, (had a private, shock induced, temper
tantrum), while Cathy laughed and said "I TOLD you so!!" I could have repeated my "six maybe seven" mantra until the cows came home, but it was not changing the
fact that the X-ray found more than that. Okay ... so, how MANY more? While we waited for the x-ray to come up on a screen, Dr's pre-whelp exam for Misty brought
on another issue - which method of whelp date calculation would be the most correct for her. He had originally gone from the date she was bred ... now beleiiving he
should go strictly by ovulation date. Okay, but now I am ALL confused - that would mean she would be due ... August 2, 2009 ... that's TOMORROW. Yes, that is Dr
Nottingham's new date - ""tomorrow". Misty appears to be ready now, but ...TOMORROW. I cried a bit, reminded him several times that he had stated August 8th with
6, maybe seven, puppies. Cathy laughed while I continued to feel nauseous as we walked back to look at the xray. NINE, maybe ten. Oh My GOODNESS. To some
that may not seem much different than 6, maybe 7. But ... it is a 50% increase in litter size - of which I now have only ONE DAY to prepare for. I was NOT ready and I
don't do well if i have not made the list and checked it twice. Now, ONE day to prepare??? Poor Misty, I had no idea she was that close, yet she did seem SO
uncomfortable. Well I did have today, so I made a mental list of all the things I would accomplish in order to be ready. And we headed home so I could get her settled
for a nice long day of rest ... as soon we would beth be very busy. So, there you have it ...
... drum roll please ...
... the official "Skull & Spine Count" is: NINE, 'maybe ten'.
~ one? day to go ...

Misty & TC

Katoba Dobermans'
Miss & Mister Litter's
"First Family Photo"

So, I win the pool ... because my NON-guess was closer than any of the guesses on the list.
Now ... the "Waiting" and the "Guessing" ... are over!
With no further ado, I am pleased to introduce to you ... Mr. B & Misty's "moo-tini-mini-me's" :

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Left click to enlarge any photo

"... walk this way ... talk this way ..." ~ Aerosmith

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Day 53 ~ "I feel like a beached whale"

Still nice
"kinda-coming-atcha"

You're a BEE ... bees make honey ...
... I LOVE honey ... come here "Mr Bee"

Day 57 89.8#

" Oh, My Goodness ! " ~ Shirley Temple

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Sit ...

... Stay

A new Whelping Box in the making ...
... Kathy's playing "Bob-the-Builder"

Day 53
Milk Bar

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Too Hot ~ 103 degrees

The Whelping Box ...
... complete & ready for the SIX arrivals

Guessing Games

Logan says, "my sister is HUMUNGOUS"

* In Washington State - where
there is seldom EVER a need
for air conditioning, we have now
experienced a week of record
high heat - over 100 degrees
daily in some areas. Being at
the peak of her pregnancy, Misty
managed very well - she is so
smart, so sensible ... even
though she REALLY wanted to
run and play. The others dogs
doted heavily over her - Logan
stares at Misty - in amazement ?

Yes, I am quite aware that this is NOT a
stack photo ... but it is the last standing photo
we have of Misty prior to her
surprise whelp day ...

... and a 20 pound weight gain.

Misty & Dr. Sig

Remember ...
left click to enlarge
any photo

With the litter being larger than expected ...
... and with many more girls than anticipated,
we are accepting inquiries for show & performance prospects.

Puppy #1        sex Female        Color Black        Weight 11.5 oz        ID: Purple        2:37pm
Puppy #2        sex Female        Color Black        Weight 11 oz           ID: Pink            2:53pm
Puppy #3        sex Female        Color Black        Weight 11 oz.          ID: Lt Blue        3:53pm
Puppy #4        sex Female        Color Red           Weight 10.5 oz        ID: Orange       4:17pm
Puppy #5        sex Female        Color Black        Weight 10.5 oz        ID: Yellow         5:45pm
Puppy #6        sex Male             Color Red           Weight 10.5 oz        ID: Black          6:00pm
Puppy #7        sex Male             Color Red           Weight 12.3 oz        ID: Navy           6:23pm
Puppy #8        sex Female        Color Red           Weight 10.5 oz        ID: Red            7:22pm
Puppy #9        sex Male             Color Black        Weight 10.5 oz        ID: Green         7:35pm