Monday Musings ~ August 4, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch

Welcome to the first Monday of August. Did you know August is National Dog Month? Around the Ranch, we tend to celebrate non-stop events like that every day. And the best way to celebrate by my way of thinking, it to do it with treats. Mum says there’s no such thing as a free treat, so I always have to do something for one and most often her default is a calm sit. She thinks I’m simply brilliant even when she accuses me of being a cuddle tank. Sheesh, I can’t help it if I run into her with enthusiasm after she’s been away from me for 27 hours a bit. Anyway here’s a pic of me ‘training’ her to give me a nice tasty treat. Notice how calm I am? Or maybe I’m just zeroing in on a distant squirrel that’s contemplating taking his life into his paws as he freezes when he spies me.

Wilson

Me and my belly are just grateful Mum was a quick study. We both wish you all a very splendid Monday and an even better week.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

46 thoughts on “Monday Musings ~ August 4, 2025”

  1. Java Bean: “Ayyy, if this is National Dog Month, we definitely need to hit Dada up for more treats, don’t you think, Lulu?”
    Lulu: “Oh for sure! First, though, let’s hear more about this squirrel …”

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Forgot the squirrel…treats are far more important!

      Reply

  2. Wilson looks especially handsome in that photo. Here’s to the man!

    As for how long mama is away, five minutes . . twenty seven hours . . same diff!

    Squirrels beware!

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you, Marc! With sheepdogs, time is completely irrelevant. 🙂

      Reply
  3. BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum – On Georgian Bay..... – Welcome to THE Purrfect Pad. My name is Sherri-Ellen & my current Kitty Girl is BellaDharma a black part Siamese cat. I started blogging in August 2005 on Yahoo 360 with Mingflower my Bluepoint Siamese. Then transferred to Multiply...Mingflower went to Summerland & NYLABLUE my BluePoint Siamese/Burmese cross took over. When Multiply was closing a handful of our blogging friends recommended WordPress & we found a home here & made many new friends. Everyone followed the antics & struggles of NYLABLUE until her passing Nov. 22nd, 2014 to Summerland. A week later a little bouncing Burmese boy I met at a local adoption event joined me here! Dec. 9th, 2014. Purrince Siddhartha Henry came to live with me & regaled us with his journey towards 'Enlightenment'. He was a Burmese Buddhist with many health issues but he searched for meaning in his Life. After his lifelong struggle with Panleukopenia. Siddhartha Henry lost his battle & left for Pure Land August 28th, 2018. He was only 4 years & 1 month old. I've never totally gotten over the loss of my "Little Man". And this is where I get VERY serious. This Purrfect Pad blog is not all sunshine & roses. This blog is about REAL life with special needs cats who come into my life. We share our time together & we share the good, the bad & the ugly. This is a REAL blog. Yes we DO laugh & have fun & take Selfies! And we share each cat's struggles whether health issues or behavioural problems. And we share about my ongoing battle with 3 health conditions that can render me unable to walk plus having Cirrhosis of Liver & Seizures. We ask our friends & followers to respect that THE Purrfect Pad is anything but 'purrfect'. I am disabled & each of my cats' have had special needs. Everyone is welcome here as long as you are kind & respectful. If you have questions feel free to ask them. Sept. 6th, 2018 BellaDharma aka Baby Girl joined THE Purrfect Pad. We hope all of you will follow our life together as BellaDharma learns how to be a domesticated cat instead of a semi-feral one.... Love, Peace & Treets, Sherri-Ellen (BellaSita Mum) & BellaDharma & 'angels' Purrince Siddhartha Henry; Nylablue 'Sweet Feet' & Mingflower the Merciless & all my other cats who have shared my life with me. You are all loved & remembered...
    BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum says:

    Well dun Wilson! You trained Miss Monika purrfectlee!!! MOL/BOL!!! 😉
    ~~head rubss~~BellaDharma~~ an ((huggiess)) BellaSita Mum

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Well she’ll always be somewhat of a project but I love her and if sitting makes her hand out a treat, count me in! Happy Monday.

      Reply
      1. BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum – On Georgian Bay..... – Welcome to THE Purrfect Pad. My name is Sherri-Ellen & my current Kitty Girl is BellaDharma a black part Siamese cat. I started blogging in August 2005 on Yahoo 360 with Mingflower my Bluepoint Siamese. Then transferred to Multiply...Mingflower went to Summerland & NYLABLUE my BluePoint Siamese/Burmese cross took over. When Multiply was closing a handful of our blogging friends recommended WordPress & we found a home here & made many new friends. Everyone followed the antics & struggles of NYLABLUE until her passing Nov. 22nd, 2014 to Summerland. A week later a little bouncing Burmese boy I met at a local adoption event joined me here! Dec. 9th, 2014. Purrince Siddhartha Henry came to live with me & regaled us with his journey towards 'Enlightenment'. He was a Burmese Buddhist with many health issues but he searched for meaning in his Life. After his lifelong struggle with Panleukopenia. Siddhartha Henry lost his battle & left for Pure Land August 28th, 2018. He was only 4 years & 1 month old. I've never totally gotten over the loss of my "Little Man". And this is where I get VERY serious. This Purrfect Pad blog is not all sunshine & roses. This blog is about REAL life with special needs cats who come into my life. We share our time together & we share the good, the bad & the ugly. This is a REAL blog. Yes we DO laugh & have fun & take Selfies! And we share each cat's struggles whether health issues or behavioural problems. And we share about my ongoing battle with 3 health conditions that can render me unable to walk plus having Cirrhosis of Liver & Seizures. We ask our friends & followers to respect that THE Purrfect Pad is anything but 'purrfect'. I am disabled & each of my cats' have had special needs. Everyone is welcome here as long as you are kind & respectful. If you have questions feel free to ask them. Sept. 6th, 2018 BellaDharma aka Baby Girl joined THE Purrfect Pad. We hope all of you will follow our life together as BellaDharma learns how to be a domesticated cat instead of a semi-feral one.... Love, Peace & Treets, Sherri-Ellen (BellaSita Mum) & BellaDharma & 'angels' Purrince Siddhartha Henry; Nylablue 'Sweet Feet' & Mingflower the Merciless & all my other cats who have shared my life with me. You are all loved & remembered...
        BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum says:

        Rite on!! Any GUUD Hu’man ISS a werk inn progress Wilson! Happy Monday mee frend! Bring on THE treetss!!

        Reply
  4. Dan Antion – Connecticut - USA – Retired - Husband, father, author of the Dreamer’s Alliance Series. When I’m not writing, I might be in my woodshop, working around the house or walking around with a camera. I might be having a beer with friends. You can find me on my blog at NoFacilities.com and on Amazon.
    Dan Antion says:

    Happy Dog Month, Wilson! However, I think you get treated pretty well all the time.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Dan. I think you’re absolutely right.
      -Wilson 🐾

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks Terry. Every day is a good day, some are just better than others. Happy Monday!

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you, Miss Ellen. We hope you have a great Monday.

      Reply
  7. Kate Crimmins – Retired Human Resources executive with two bossy cats ready to share insights, experiences and wisdom to make you laugh and think in new ways.
    Kate Crimmins says:

    Happy dog month! Now my cats want a cat month too! With treats! And they don’t do quiet sits. They do judgmental sits.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I’ll bet there’s one for kitties too. And it will no doubt make allowances for judgmental sits. 🤣 Have a great Monday.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Mike. Here’s hoping the Golden Girls receive an appropriate amount of treats this month…on and above the usual amount. Happy Monday.

      Reply
  9. John W. Howell – South Texas Gulf Coast – I have been working in business for over forty years and now have the time to work in special areas of interest. My passion has always been to create compelling stories of fiction. I have authored six novels and am working on my Seventh. The first novel is still in manuscript form and being utilized as a door stop in the laundry room. The second is a contemporary fiction novel of 89,000 words and is complete and I am currently seeking a publisher. I also write poetry but have not had the guts to share any with anyone. The one time I read a piece to a person their only comment was, “it doesn’t rhyme.” I will continue to write and hopefully my blog, Fiction Favorites at www.johnwhowell.com will provide some entertainment and an interesting thought or two. I live in the Austin area with my wife Molly and an assortment of loving pets.
    John W. Howell says:

    Happy Dog Month, Wilson. Treats are named that since their purpose is to supply pleasure. Too many, and the pleasure factor disappears. Let’s hope your mum will get you nearer to the too many mark without going over. 😀

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, John. Wilson informed me there is no such thing as too many. Why am I not surprised? Happy Monday.

      Reply
  10. onespoiledcat – Virginia – We are Angel Sammy and Teddy......! Two ginger cats - one left for the Rainbow Bridge in December of 2016 (but still keeps in touch...) and the other in the "here and now" having lots of fun. Join us as we try to bring smiles to everyone around us with our blog.
    onespoiledcat says:

    Happy Dog Month – training humans isn’t easy for dogs OR cats that’s for sure but once you “have them in your paws” they really are excellent pets (tee hee).

    Hugs, Teddy

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Teddy. You’re so right, training our humans is a hard, challenging and ongoing exercise…mostly in futility since we pets have to keep after them all the time. Happy Monday!

      Reply

  11. What a beautiful calm sit for a treat sweet Wilson, I hope your mum gave you plenty! 💕 xxx

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, thanks, Xenia. It was a nice quiet spot for a few moments of training. Wilson was hoping there’d be a lot more, but I managed to convince him he’d done very well in his training efforts. We hope you and precious Bria have a terrific Monday.

      Reply

  12. Thank you for letting us know it’s national dog month. Like at your house, it national dog whatever every day of the year here! XOX Xena Pee Ess, would you come get these two clowns who are staying with us? They’re always all over my Mommy and I don’t like that. And Chia and the pom mix whatever her name is sit and stare at each other with their mouths frozen in a snarl. I would try to get you more treats from my Mommy if you can do that, Wilson.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Oh gosh, sorry to hear your guests are monopolizing your mom. Just remember sharing is a good thing and eventually the guests will be leaving and then you can resume your top dog status. I’m sure there will be lots of treats involved when things get back to normal. Happy Monday.

      Reply

  13. Thank you for reminding us Wilson. We’ll have to share that impawtant news too. Purrfect training of the huMom; we like it. Keep up the wagnificent work.

    Dot & Jerry Underfoot 😻head boops😻

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Moms always need refresher courses. Happy Monday.

      Reply

  14. You’re such a handsome pup, Wilson. I would love to love on you.

    Thank you for joining the Awww Mondays Blog Hop.

    Have a fabulous Awww Monday and week. Love and hugs to mom and lots of scritches to Wilson. ♥

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, you’re too sweet, Sandee. Wilson would more than welcome your loving attention.

      Reply
  15. Jacqui Murray – Laguna Hills, CA. – Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga, Man vs. Nature which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also the author of the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers and Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. Her non-fiction includes over a hundred books on integrating tech into education, reviews as an Amazon Vine Voice, and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics. Look for her next prehistoric trilogy.
    Jacqui Murray says:

    Best month of the year!

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      It’s a year long celebration around the Ranch but yeah…best month of the year.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Only when you have constantly reinforce the training. 🤣

      Reply
  17. Wing Commander Basil & The B Team – UK – Well, now there's a question! Furstly and most importantly I'm a cat if mew hadn't already guessed. I got my Wing Commander status in September 2018 but that hasn't slowed me up at all! I tweet, Instacat, FB, Tumble & Pin too and now there's Basil TV on YouTube. All in all I'm a thoroughly Modern Cat; a cat of the 21st century, mew might say. My human & Purrsonal Assistant aka P.A. is Cathrine Garnell, and she writes books including a tale about my fictional alter ego, Basil the Bionic Cat. [See Books Page] I live in a multi-cat household, and mew can meet the rest of The B Team here most days of the week, as they all like a turn on the blog. I like mice, but then don't we all? I also like fresh tuna, chicken and prawns. I LOVE catnip, not in any excess I might add before mew jump to any wild conclusions. Thanks so much for dropping by, as we The B Team, love making new furriends, so do leave us a comment and say hi.
    Wing Commander Basil & The B Team says:

    Oh my an entire month of extra snacks, mew are talking our language!!!! Happy Monday, and we hope your week is epic! P.S. Pandora sends many purrs of thanks for the comment!!! 🐾🐾

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Hiya. with apologies for the late response, your lovely comment was in the spam folder. {grumble, grumble}. Thanks for swinging by the Ranch. We 💙 visitors.Ear scritches for Pandora.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Right back at you guys! 🐶

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Wilson: Hope springs eternal. 😆

      Reply
  20. derrycats – I am a pet sitter who lives with a houseful of animals as well, many of whom have medical and special needs. This blog is my reflection on the joys and blessings of living with our three cats and two dogs, and lots and lots of foster dogs and cats.
    derrycats says:

    It is truly amazing all the things dogs will do for a treat, and when there’s no treat in the offing, they have no idea what you’re asking.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Isn’t that the truth!

      Reply

  21. Dogs are expert trainers…..in this household I know my place…..

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      We’re guessing The Thugs are great trainers.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I like the way you think, Carole! Oh Muuuumm….Carole says I deserve unlimited treats. 😆 Happy Monday.

      Reply

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