Now that the Gosselins live in a more spacious home, Jon and Kate have agreed that it's time to expand their already large family. To the delight of the Gosselin children, the whole family sets out to get two new puppies!
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I'm not sure that I could handle 8 kids and 2 dogs.
I never had a dog when I was growing up. My mom felt her numerous children and the neighbors' pets would satisfy. I suspect she suffered from having to give away her childhood pets when she moved and didn't want the heartbreak for us though. I wanted one, so I am happy for the G's kids. I will confess that I don't have a dog myself right now, and I do have a child who wants one. We will consider it once we are settled in a new home next year (we have to convince her dad first.)
we only have 2 kids but we have 5 pets. 3 dogs and 2 cats. Each animal has it's own personality and it's like having additional kids.
I too heard that they already had to give up the dogs because one of the kids was allergic. Sad but hopefully they can choose another pet that all the kids can enjoy.
Always had a dog growing up but I never had one as an adult. After watching my Mom grieve because she had to put the dogs down because of illness, I never wanted to go through it. I hope the Gosselins keep the dogs, I have heard the rumors also. From the video Mady seems to be the one to have the most interaction with them. Go Mady!
I can't wait to see this episode. We have a German Shepherd, named Emma, and she is the most gentle, loving dog I have ever been around. She's also a scairdy cat! I wonder where the rumors come from that they have already gotten rid of them. Does that really make sense, with all the land they now have they will probably be more outdoor dogs than indoor. So many of the rumors we hear are proved false.
Where did this rumor about them giving away the dogs come from? It seems to contradict everything that I've actually seen. Jon talked about the dogs just a couple of weeks ago at Penn State and an upcoming episode is about a trip to the vet. If they got them at XMas that would mean they have had the dogs long enough to bond with them, train them, and know whether someone is allergic. It doesn't add up. Maybe the trip to the vet has something to do with it?? I hope not.
I love dogs and I'm waiting until the kids are old enough. I grew up with dogs and cats and I want that for my children. We had a german sheppard for awhile and they can protect you for sure. Our dog didn't like bald men and I don't know why...lol. Our dog was prejudice..go figure :)
Cincymom, I totally agree. I can't have a dog now but when I do I'll adopt a one year old, hopefully already housebroken dog. At least at this point in my life, training a puppy is not on my top ten list of things I want to do.
I agree that it would be weird if they got rid of the dogs. Guess we'll know soon enough.
I wonder how Kate in particular will deal with house breaking the dogs. Good for her to ease up a little. Animals are a lot of work but what a wonderful thing for the kids.
Here is a thought I had as I was looking at the pics of the dogs on TLC. I wonder if one of the reasons they got 2 dogs (2 dogs that will be big at that) is partly for security reasons.
Housebreaking two puppies at once? I think that might be the final nail in the "obsessive compulsive neat freak's" coffin. Kate had to let go of some of those OCD/germophobic tendencies when she had six babies at once. Whatever traces of the old Kate is still left will disappear once TWO fluffy balls of fur start piddling and pooing in that new house. Heh.
And if Mady is the one bonding most to the pups, then I see that as a good thing. If she does have jealousy issues (and we've all seen her meltdowns), these two pups could be just what she needs. The love of a dog is the best kind of therapy.
As far as the rumor of the dogs being given away (this is the first I've heard it mentioned), until I SEE it with my own eyes, or Jon and Kate CONFIRM it an appearance or interview, then I will chalk it up to just another ugly rumor started by the petty, jealous, "advocate" trolls.
And yes, I think the fact that they got German Shepherds is partly for security reasons. Gee, what ever could make them think that they need to be protected from anything?
I don't think German Shepherd Dogs will do well in that household. They are wonderful dogs but need structure. I don't think the chaos in that house would be good for the dogs. Kate is so germphobic she should avoid pets entirely or consider giving the kids riding lessons or time to volunteer at the animal shelter so the animals would not be near the house and her.
We got two puppies when we got settled in our house and having two was the best thing. The puppies play with each other and it keeps the gnawing on furniture to a minimum. They keep each other company so as they get older, it's easier to leave them. In two years, ( that's right two years,)they will be settled and loving their life with their dogs.
As a German Shepherd owner, I can't wait to see the puppies. GS's are great dogs. Loving and obedient. But they do shed like crazy. I hope Kate has a good pet vaccuum.
GS's are a great choice for the Gosselin's security.
I agree that it's nice to get two of the dogs or cats if you can. We always had dogs (have two now + two cats). It was always easier to leave them alone if they have someone else to be with. As much as I love them, I feel like I never give them all the time they deserve and it's nice they have each other.
I don't believe that the puppies are gone. The post that I think was the beginning of rumor is not to be found anymore. Oh the show is on.
Ok, just found this funny. 5 minutes into the show and I pegged 3 things that "other" blog would complain and rant and rave about. 5 minutes in and they are ALREADY at it! And, no surprise, they are flipping out over EXACTLY what I pegged them to.
Interesting episode.... I was wondering about their choice in breed and how all that happened so its definitely more clear now. They had a breeder they met and trusted that spoke highly of the breed, they got two because they can keep each other company, and they have the land for both dogs to roam. I also think its important how she assured the kids no matter what they are named or which ones are picked, the entire family would love the puppies chosen. I remember having pets my parents chose when I was younger and really not being a fan at first... then in time you love them anyway :).
I thought it was funny that Jon and Kate talked about how they were more scared to bring the puppied home than with a baby! I also liked that they did the interview when they had already had the dogs for 6 weeks and how Kate discussed preparing and having a schedule set.
Oh and apparently the satanic death trap of a trampoline is not owned by Jon and Kate. We can all rest easy :). And Kate and Jon did pay for them too- so no worries about the dogs being free either, though he did donate the proceeds of the puppies to a child with cancer.
How cute was it that Alexis went up tot the cage when they were leaving and said "Goodbye doggies-- I'll be back!" Cara and Mady were thrilled by the time they left as well-- which is always a good thing. Its also great that Jon and Kate have the twins to help out-- this is a great responsibility. They were laughing and joking around a lot as well-- it was funny how the kids joked about how Mommy is mean at the end when she was saying they are not welcome for the puppies (after a crazy busy day and lots of poop and pee to clean up). Yeah- the kids were joking since they were laughing and giggling about how they should name the puppies mommy and daddy :).
Now, how can you defend these people after seeing this show. This was a pure and simple publicity stunt. Those puppies had no chance of staying then Elvis is still alive. Bye bye puppies, bye bye puppies bye bye bye bye this was just a TLC stunt for ratings.... bye bye puppies... Come on... I loved this show in the beginning, but this past season have seen some things that sickened me and every show just gets worse... Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials.... I'm sorry but I try to see the best in people but this season it is impossible, with the body language on the couch.... Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
Yeah I think I got suckered into believing the puppies were already gone.
They are adorable. 2 is also a good idea when you have 8 kids. Maybe they won't fight as much over who gets to do what with the dog.
I was a little surprised that they let that many kids on the trampoline without a net. My dad bought my kids one to share for their birthday but he got the net to go with it. He is a OR nurse and he said he sees a lot of broken bones from trampolines without nets.
Watching Mady tonight...what a sensitive child. News of the puppies' names brought her to tears. She was anxious about who'd be picking the dogs out. But she came around and was so cute and truly happy with her puppies! Jon and Kate handled it very well, just addressed her in a matter-of-fact manner and didn't let her upset feelings spoil anything. And she came around. I was so happy for the older girls when they announced that they have dogs, just like everyone else in their class! Cara was cute saying, "Now we do!"
That scene with the adult dog and the puppy was precious.
Aaden was cute too. It's funny how some kids are more noticeable from one show to the next.
Annie, I am not a good sheeple, I almost missed the show (had a lovely long nap).
I am laughing so hard five minutes into it. I love those moments when you think your kids are going to have this wonderful reaction and it goes the opposite. They can be so contrary when you think you're going to have a Brady moment with them. :)
Oh, that's where the TLC clip is from, the breeder's place. It was confusing because J&K were talking more in the present and I just thought it was on their property. I wondered why there was a full grown Shepherd in that clip. The former trouper has a nice layout for kids, I wonder if he does educational presentations or something.
Mady and Cara's: we're the only kids in school who don't have dogs and “now we do” was so cute. I thought it was such a normal thing for a kid to say. Having a puppy is the status or the norm, not the fact that they have their own show.
Oh, that's cute at the end when all the kids thank their mom and dad. I couldn't understand the second thing they said after that, it sounded like, something something “cheese?” and then Colin/Aaden (?) says we should name mommy and daddy.
The kids were adorable, another episode I really enjoyed. I liked Kate a lot in this episode (can you believe it?). I thought she handled everything great and was pleasant to watch. They didn't snipe at each other on the couch which was really nice. I hope we get to see more of the dogs with the kids in the future.
They've had the puppies since Christmas and it was never heard of before Jon's talk at PSU. The show is edited, and we just don't get to see and know it all.
Elizabeth, I had a little giggle when I saw that the death trap trampoline was not another freebie.
Annie That was too funny! They seem to notice more detail then people who actually like the show! I think the dogs were cute and they will do fine once they and the family get a routine set up. I miss my childhood dog Gizmo, so I hope those dogs bring the kids lots of great memories.
Merryway, Kate looked rested and engaged on the couch. I thought it was a good episode for her. My husband noticed she was pleasant, though we predicted she'd be loud and screeching about the puppies. She wasn't. You know, I think Kate is one of those "baby" people who just connect with infants and, in this episode, puppies. She was sweet when Nala licked her face.
Truman said...Kate is so germphobic she should avoid pets entirely or consider giving the kids riding lessons or time to volunteer at the animal shelter so the animals would not be near the house and her.
I haven't seen the show yet (but, I very much appreciate reading the recaps from Saint, Annie, Merryway, Dr. Lizabeth, etc!).
As others have said, time will tell as to how this will turn out, but I certainly don't think Kate's self-admitted germophobe tendencies should squash plans for a family pet. She's already made some progress in this area, and maybe having some puppies around are just what she needs to make further strides. I know, I am thinking optimistically. It's actually a nice state of mind to be in. :-)
St., Yeah, I was surprised. It's nice to see Kate like that. I remember her practically melting on the couch after the trip from HI, she was so relaxed. I really think she pushes herself too hard. All this time she's been traveling and having to deal with being away from her kids (the thought that this might be hard for her never seems to enter the mind of some), she also had two puppies in the mix. Oh my!
As a fellow mom and a BIG dog lover, I certainly understand a little “buyer's remorse” in the beginning. Also, with Mady's reaction and some of the other's to finding out they were getting the puppies; I think some of those moments happen before children know what to do with that little adrenalin rush of excitement. After having many defeated moments with my boys (they outgrew it around 8-9), I realized they were just too excited to know what to do at first and it was something new to think about. Mady does seem like a little pessimist sometimes or that she wants to make sure it's going to be a certain way. I loved her moments at the end. I just read they were chanting back “mommy's mean”. I think it was just a cute teasing moment after a long day. Some just don't seem have a sense of humor about anything or ever joked in a similar way with their own. I've also read how awful that J&K didn't let their children name the puppies. How ridiculous is that? I've never seen this manual of the perfect mom to which these haters must constantly refer. According to the rules they have for Kate, I have been the worst mother in the world. The lady has 8 kids and has allowed two puppies in the mix, two puppies that will grow into huge dogs and cost a lot of money and require a lot of care. She gets a halo from me on this one. I think it's evident why they chose Shepherds as the breed of choice.
Disgusted, I am amazed how you just know the puppies are “bye bye”. I wonder what show you watched as I believe the puppies are here to stay. Even if some of kids did turn up to be allergic, it might be a manageable situation.
Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
I have no idea to what lie you are referring.
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials
I don't know if the Gs want you to endure anything, but I'm sure TLC thanks you for watching their show.
When I read the anti-Gosselin comments, they fall into 2 categories for me: those from viewers who don't like the parents but still like the show, and those from people who have to "endure the Gosselins," like Disgusted up thread:
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials.
If it's really that unbearable, just turn the channel. 24 is on Fox. That's what I'd recommend.
I thought it was funny that the first thing the puppies did was pee on Kate's carpet.
Puppies are harder than children. You have to take them outside to go, in the cold, wet and dark of night! It's much easier to stumble into the kiddo's room and change a diaper!
I didnt see the whole thing bc I was busy but the first half was cute. Kids know how to take the wind out of your sails don't they? It was funny to see how the dogs melted Kate who in the past was so against getting pets. I'm sure the kids will love their new friends and I think getting two is a good (and ambitious) idea. They will certainly have lots of room to run and play :)
I've been a dog owner my whole life, which included several German Shepherds, since they were the breed of choice for both my grandparents and parents. They are indeed smart, loyal, and YES, they shed. The male pup has especially beautiful markings. They are good family dogs and should be great with the kids, but at the same time are great security when it comes to people OUTSIDE the family unit.
Buyers remorse? Oh yes. It will happen. Kate WILL threaten to get rid of them on a daily basis, and that is mostly out of frustration every time one of them poops or chews. Hell, I do it and I have many years of dog raising experience, including 8 years volunteering for a local no kill shelter. Jon and Kate being rookies at having pets will add to that. It's going to be a learning experience for them. Since they have the income, I would recommend a professional trainer and I hope the breeder is willing to give them pointers when things get rocky (they're pups, it will get rocky). He looks like the kind of breeder that knows what he's doing, so that's a good thing.
Okay, hint number one, Gosselins. NEWSPAPERS. You just put a pen with poopy puppies on CARPETING? At first I thought it was on the hard wood floors (oy vey!), but there's definitely some carpet pieces in that pen. PUT THAT PEN ON THE TILE FLOORING and then PUT NEWSPAPERS DOWN. Lord have mercy! Rookies! They'll learn!
Oh, I'm sorry "Disgusted," what were you saying again? I don't think anyone heard you. Perhaps preaching to the choir over on the "advocates" site would be more to your liking?
I have heard rumors that Elvis is still alive. I heard he faked his death and relocated with a new identity to escape people who were spreading malicious rumors about him. Wait a minute. Maybe I have him mixed up with Jon Gosselin.
Oh, I'm sorry "Disgusted," what were you saying again? I don't think anyone heard you. Perhaps preaching to the choir over on the "advocates" site would be more to your liking?
Forgive me if I am interpretting Disgusted's comment incorrectly, but he/she only posed a question of what "your" defense would be.
If this board has a firm stance then by all means, discuss your "stance" - it seems the majority of the discussion here is what goes on elsewhere. Actually, your comment of "I don't think anyone heard you", puts a lot of things in perspective.
My husband noticed she was pleasant, though we predicted she'd be loud and screeching about the puppies. She wasn't. You know, I think Kate is one of those "baby" people who just connect with infants and, in this episode, puppies. She was sweet when Nala licked her face.
Very sweet episode. And yeah, I think Kate melted with the pups a bit because they are babies. Forgive the bad pun, but this was definitely an episode where we saw that Kate's bark was worse than her bite. She kvetched (a lot!), but in such a good-natured way, it was hard to take it seriously. It was almost like she was just playing the curmedgeon role, but when you saw her cuddling Nala, that was the "real Kate".
I loved her moments at the end. I just read they were chanting back “mommy's mean”. I think it was just a cute teasing moment after a long day.
That was cute! I like seeing that stuff because it confirms for me that the kids get Kate's sarcasm (which admittedly, can be hard for very young children to understand), and don't take it seriously. If Kate is going to be the way we all know she can be, then I think the best thing is for her family to let her be that way but not take it seriously.
Bye bye puppies, bye bye puppies bye bye bye bye this was just a TLC stunt for ratings.... bye bye puppies... Come on...
And you know this how? I think of "stunts" as like, Evel Knievel over the Grand Canyon or something. This was a family getting some dogs. The conspiracy theories get whackier all of the time.
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials
You poor thing! If you can type in your address, we can send the authorities over and they'll release you from whatever horrid bondage that FORCES you to "endure" this show. I'm picturing something out of "A Clockwork Orange" myself.
I'm sorry but I try to see the best in people but this season it is impossible
Yes, I've noticed a surfeit of people who TRY to see the best in people and fail miserably. They never seem to see the fault in themselves, though. Hmm.
Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
I thought J&K appeared more relaxed and comfortable with each other than they have in the past few episodes. But I'm not psychic or empathetic, and I've misplaced my Kate-hating goggles, so I'm sure I'm not watching the same show that you are.
I loved this episode. The kids were cute and I loved how Kate left the dog kennel and said Ok I have my dogs. And her running to be the first one to get to the dogs.
I loved Aaden and how he was afraid of the dogs and wanted to make sure they were locked up and couldn't get out. And Alexis telling the dogs goodbye and I will be back.....those kids are too cute.
I also think that all the episodes we have seen this year were taped last yr during the move...which was why they were always out and about and that they were filler episodes unti they showed them moving. I don't know why TLC waited to show the big move so long, but it is obvious that they moved when it was warmer out. I think Kate was stressed about with moving, 8 kids, 2 dogs and all of her speaking engagements plus the holidays and it has showed in some episodes, especially on the couch. She was much more relaxed last night and if they got the puppies the beginning of Dec this interview was taped in Jan, when things have settled down.
I thought this was a great day-in-the-life episode. The kids, especially Mady and Cara, were engaged and excited about getting the dogs, and Jon and Kate's "pet ignorace" was funny (having been there myself).
I've only ever gotten one puppy at a time, and it's a HUGE chore, so I think they didn't know what they were getting into at all with two. They're home a lot so that probably helped adjust to the all the work that's involved with new dogs.
I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't end up tiling the entire basement floor eventually. It appears that's where they'll be entering and exiting the house in the future (setting up kid shoe and coat "stations") and where the dogs may spend most of their "indoor" time.
***LANE FUNITURE ALERT*****
I noticed they had those wooden "lockers" in the middle of the basement (obviously still in the middle of remodeling). I was wondering if the Gosselins would ever get something like those...have always thought those were a neat idea for organizing kid gear, but have never seen them offered by anybody by Pottery Barn and LL Bean.
Also caught a glimpse of a hutch-style desk behind the dining table in the kitchen when they were eating dinner. LOVE that...inherited an antique version from my grandmother and it's a beautiful piece.
*****************************
Overall, this episode was about an 8 on the Gosselin Show Enjoyment Meter. :)
I'm an insurance agent in NJ and the Companies I write for will cancel your policy if you have a trampoline on your property. They don't care if you have a net around it either. German Shepards are also on the list of prohibited animals and can get you cancelled too. I don't have dogs myself but I think it has more to do with the training and care of the dog than the breed. My brother has two german shepards that work as K-9 dogs (drug sniffing) They are very good with their girls ages 8 and 5. My son's chihuaha on the other hand bit my 28 year old daughter on the nose for no reason.
I didn't even watch the episode yet...I was too busy watching 24 then then House.
My baa is broken I suppose. Between Jack Bauer (I say Jack not necessarily Keefer), Hugh Laurie and Sendhil Ramamurthy....ladies it's hard to tear me away.
Jenn, I saw that and was more than appalled. I thought the whole post was so irresponsible. It's not the smartest thing in the world to harass an ex-state trooper. He obviously had a beautiful set up and place for the dogs. The dogs looked gorgeous and well cared for. I think they said he had a sniffer dog, so he prob is a contractor called in when they need his dog. I'm all for free speech, but there is a line you cross with harassment, inciting and threatening.
I thought it was because they were friends that the trooper guy donated to J&K's charity of choice and it was a nice thing for him to do. I have no idea what a security bred gs would cost, but it was money he could have put in his own pocket. They've showed us a friend, the kids having fun and doing the most normal thing of getting pets. I have really liked the last few shows.
Merryway, I like your avatar. I'm guessing that's in reference to the Elvis is still alive post. It takes me awhile but it finally sinks in. I didn't see the episode so I'll refrain from rendering an opinion, I'm sure my girls watched it and I'll be getting two totally different takes on it. It's amazing how people can view the exact same scenario and have completely opposite views on it! 'Sure wish I had some kind of educational background to decipher all this, or a brain that can wrap around it anyway. Nomoredrama, I love House! What was with the ending? Does it mean he's back to the vicadin (spelling?) or does it mean he's going to live in pain? My husband is king of the remote control, he tries to watch what I'm interested in and tape the rest but he draws the line at TLC! He's a big fan of 24 too, but that's another show I never could get into big-time. I usually put on my ipod and go on the (mini) trampoline then. MrsRef I hope minis are allowed inside the house without fear of losing insurance?! Those were very interesting facts!
I thought he was donating the proceeds from the whole litter to someone with cancer so any dog he sold would benefit cancer. Although I can't have a dog because I am allergic, I would probably go to a shelter to get one. At least they didn't appear to go to a puppy mill in the Lancaster area. That seems to be a big problem in the area. As for the trampolines, I don't think that rule applies for the whole state but the companies I write for won't let you have them. they also don't like treehouses and skateboard ramps and some pools. Mini tramps are okay - they can't see them when they inspect your house.
They're saying the trooper should be shot? They are beyond carried away if they have somehow decided that shooting someone over something so minor is logical.
Why would they want to do harm to anyone's business, especially after they write non-sensical and inconsistent diatribe after diatribe about how hard things are right now with the recession?
the child advocates are now calling for the dog breeder to be shot. The dude is an ex cop..I had to laugh.
Before I watched this episode I was reading comments on a J&K facebook fan group and read comments about a trampoline and how deadly it was with all the kids on it. I watched the episode and had another laugh. They made it sound like they crammed all the kids on the thing at once.
Then I read Jon and Kate wasn't talking to each other on the couch and had another laugh.
I think I was laughing through the whole dang show.
I'm getting the itch for a dog but the reality I'm not ready yet. I don't think I can handle a puppy with an almost 2 and 4 years old children. I will have to live sheeply by watching the Gosselin dogs..
I loved Aaden and how he was afraid of the dogs and wanted to make sure they were locked up and couldn't get out. And Alexis telling the dogs goodbye and I will be back.....those kids are too cute.
I was thinking about Aaden this morning fretting about the doggies - so, so cute. The boys are definitely the less adventurous kids in that family.
I can't believe someone would say that the dog breeder should be shot. Even just as an expression, you just don't SAY things like that on the internet, where they will live forever and where the have quite the possibility of being misinterpreted. I don't know what is wrong with some people. The haters seem to become more hysterical with every episode. I've observed before that it is sometimes the "nice" episodes that seem to really whip them up into a frenzy. Such a strange phenomenon to me.
Re: The trampoline. I don't think they are death traps. I would have personally preferred that it have a net around it or some adults acting as spotters. I think back to when I was a child - some of the things we played with and did. I am surprised any of us are here today. Does anyone remember the merry-go-rounds on playgrounds. You would jump on and some big kids always came and pushed it so fast, you were holding on for your life. How about see-saws? We used to go to a baby pool that was probably a foot deep and not fenced. Playgrounds were on concrete. I am surprised I survived childhood.
MrsRef I love merry go rounds!! That was always my favorite thing... spinning till you were so dizzy... those were the days :). I think that you have a great perspective though in looking back to things you did as a kid and seeing that you survived. Like most things, I feel like a balance is necessary. Yes, it would have been nice if the trampoline had a net, but it didn't and the kids seemed to be safe (i.e. there was an adult nearby that was helping them on and probably standing to the side, plus they only had I think 4 kids on at most).
As far as peoples response to the breeder, it really is a shame. People are going to respond how they choose to respond, though, and must be willing to reap the consequences. All too often those comments come from either people who are essentially anonymous, or bloggers who seem to not care how their actions affect others. I think the breeder was responsible, especially in preparing Jon and Kate for the puppies with all the information given. Plus if the way he interacted with the kids was any indication, he seemed like a really nice guy. Dogs *are* a lot of work, and I highly doubt any first time pet owner is truly ready to have that new puppy around (just like many first time parents who don't realize exactly what it means to be tired until that baby has his days and nights mixed up!!)
Thats life though-- I appreciate that Jon and Kate have chosen to allow their kids the chance to experience life, even when its inconvenient for the parents. Too many families make excuses for why they can't do things instead of taking a different approach and giving it a shot anyway.
Well, I read the post on the blog where the moderator suggested the ex-cop should be shot. I don't even understand why she is upset with him? Does anybody get the point of that post or the comments? What exactly did the Gosselins do wrong when picking out the puppies? I see a comment about there being no pet carrier. Is that really enough to condemn the breeder? Or am I missing something(s)?
As for the trampolines, I don't think that rule applies for the whole state but the companies I write for won't let you have them. they also don't like treehouses and skateboard ramps and some pools.
Wow, Mrs. Ref this company sounds like major party poopers lol. They would have loved me as a kid though- heights freaked me out so no treehouses, I didn't have the coordinatiion for a skateboard and I couldnt swim so I stayed in the shallow end! I did love a trampoline though. . .
Saint, I don't think you're missing anything. I didn't see anything wrong with how they were brought home, etc.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
In terms of the death trap trampoline, I'm surprised alot of us survived our childhoods. We jumped on netless trampolines, went swimming in lakes, played street hockey. We lived behind -gasp-railroad tracks! Yes, my mom was pretty careful when we were playing outdoors and the train went by, but can you imagine what the "advocates" would say if the Gosselin kids did all the same stuff we did as kids? I can't even imagine.
The puppies were so cute. I was glad they picked two and I really liked the names. I thought it was a good family centered episode :)
I haven't been able to track down the post about shooting the breeder, but I think it's interesting that it was written by one of the moderators. You know, I had been giving the moderators over there the benefit of the doubt in the past as it seems as least they're able to string together sentences that sound somewhat intelligent. I also was wondering if they started the blog to snark about the Gosselins in an innocent manner with no intention of the site turning into a huge hate-filled blog full of idiots who make up rumors and obsess about the Gosselins. But they've allowed that to happen; and now that I hear one of the mods made such a ridiculous and ignorant comment, I have no respect for the mods. I've never had respect for the posters (that goes without saying).
I think the posters over there fail to realize that with rights come consequences.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
Hmm...I'm wondering if it's this: these people have tried and tried to "get to" the Gosselins, with very little apparent success. Maybe they are releasing their (albeit inexplicable) anger on those that they believe they can get to? Someone they can reach on the phone, force to respond to their email, etc? I don't know, I just know that the level of anger and suggestions of violence are extremely inappropriate.
Merry-go-rounds and see-saw's were the best. PA must be such a hate mongering, child abusing state because some playgrounds still have them :-)
Here's another reason to call the authorities. So many of the kid's I babysat in college had them and I would *gasp* bounce on them with the kids. Sometimes I'd even bounce high. Sure they had nets but my flagrant disregard for a child's life is so apparent. I should probably be barred from further contact with children.
In terms of the death trap trampoline, I'm surprised alot of us survived our childhoods. We jumped on netless trampolines, went swimming in lakes, played street hockey. We lived behind -gasp-railroad tracks! Yes, my mom was pretty careful when we were playing outdoors and the train went by, but can you imagine what the "advocates" would say if the Gosselin kids did all the same stuff we did as kids? I can't even imagine.
Things were different "back then". I'm not sure if there is much of a difference in accidental death rates, but it's not like I'm opposed to the safety measures that have been instituted for childrens' toys, playgrounds, etc. I just think sometimes people lose perspective and forget that living is perilous and the sort of freak accidents that get attention get that attention specifically because they ARE freak accidents.
(For some reason I'm reminded of a REALLY old SNL sketch - I know it's old b/c Dan Ackroyd was in it. He plays some childrens' toy manufacturer trying to convince a consumer reporter - maybe played by Jane Curtin? - that a "bag o' glass" makes an excellent toy for children of all ages.)
I seem to recall that a lot of you explain away Kate's behavior and actions and the things she says with "who really means these things".
Remember "never" really "never" means "never". (regarding the Fast Food).
So no one else is allowed to exaggerate?
About murdering someone? I don't think it's a great idea, personally. Nor do I think it reflects an appropriate level of anger at the dog breeder. Exaggerating about threats to harm someone is not really the same thing as exaggerating about how often one eats fast food.
Toto, I'm not sure that the comment is on GWoP - it's on one of the hate sites, but I'm not sure which one. I try to stay away from them as the bile is unhealthy to even come in contact with, IMO. But I totally agree with this:
I think the posters over there fail to realize that with rights come consequences.
This is something I see all the time from anti-Gosselin posters - they feel they have the right to judge the Gosselins but that no one has the right to judge them for their judgments or how they express them. They are wrong.
Toto, The post that I found (and I think we're all talking about the same thing) is not at GWoP. It's at the psychic blog. Not only does the mod say the breeder should be physically harmed, but she seems to be threatening him with finding out his personal information because her 'readers' will do it for her. IMO it's irresponsible, far more irresponsible than paying for 2 puppies to raise in a huge house on 20+ acres.
I seem to recall that a lot of you explain away Kate's behavior and actions and the things she says with "who really means these things".
Remember "never" really "never" means "never". (regarding the Fast Food).
So no one else is allowed to exaggerate?
I understand what you're saying, but verbal expressions of violence are typically viewed differently than claims about fast food consumption. Most people can't get away with making posts about how another "should be shot" without getting a reaction, I havent seen the post but I would imagine that was the posters intent.
Eileen:-) I sooo hate when they tease us like that (The writers of house). I'm definitely a "Huddy" fan (House and Cuddy). Apparently there is this whole online community dedicated to talking about House and Cuddy. Interesting if that's your thing. Me, I'm just not that into it:-).
He's definitely going back on Vicodin. They won't leave House nice for long. It's all good though, sarcasm and irony are two of my favorite types of humor.
Thelengthofdefense, You sound like you might understand that 'exaggerated' post. Could you explain what the breeder did wrong in selling two puppies to a family with tons of property and the means to care for them? I don't think the writer ever got around to actually listing her objections, besides not seeing pet carriers in the big blue van.
Shows you how naive I am...I didn't realize there were multiple Gosselin hate blogs out there. I was only aware of the one. I was lurking over there earlier today and noticed that a lot of posters are now using pictures of themselves or their families in their avatars. That makes me sad, I guess because these people have no shame and that has to be based purely on ignorance. And putting your kids in your avatar if you're spewing hate? That's just wonderful. I don't understand the "passion" to hate this family. Actually, I don't want to understand it.
Guinivere: That was Mainway Toys. They had the Bag of Glass and some kind of wood blocks with splinters sticking out. I agree with you that things were different back then. My daughter is having a baby in June and my youngest is 25. Boy have things changed in how you let a baby sleep, how you feed them, etc. We had this whole big discussion on drop sides on cribs, apparently that is a no-no now. I didn't think the trampoline was such a big deal even with all the kids on it. It wasn't like they were doing olympic style stunts on it or anything. As for people wanting to shoot the breeder, if that was said about a public official, I am sure one would find one's self in jail for making terroristic threats.
I understand that maybe "he should be shot" was "just an expression" however I think there would have been a much better way to get the point across without using such a negative phrase. Some people have no self-control when it comes to dragging this family (and whoever is associated with it) through the mud.
Okay, nomoredrama, was that a nice way of hinting that I should get myself out of here because I don't watch Jon & Kate and can't add anything to the forum? I told you my family makes fun of me all the time for being a fan of this site!! Thanks for pointing me to the House site, I'll check it out. Saint, I don't think there's been one episode of House that I haven't enjoyed. I even loved the one where Wilson's girlfriend died (cried all through it, but still loved it).
That episode really was about What not to do when thinking about getting a dog. They seemed ill-prepared to own two puppies. We finally talked my parents into get a dog when I was younger but really didn't know what to do and he did turn out to have issues as he got older. I loved him to pieces but realized that all his issues were related to our ignorance about how to raise a well bahaved dog. I hope they put the work in. It's not going to be easy, especially since Kate is not a dog lover.
Poor Aaden, I felt for him, cowering in the corner as the big dog pouced at him. I hope he gets over his fear in a hurry. Mady seemed to be the most excited, I hope they become attached to her she seems to need it.
That episode really was about What not to do when thinking about getting a dog. They seemed ill-prepared to own two puppies. We finally talked my parents into get a dog when I was younger but really didn't know what to do and he did turn out to have issues as he got older. I loved him to pieces but realized that all his issues were related to our ignorance about how to raise a well bahaved dog. I hope they put the work in. It's not going to be easy, especially since Kate is not a dog lover.
Kate seemed very determined to get all of the information she needed. Perhaps it would have been better if they had done that all ahead of time, but you have to start somewhere, and they weren't originally anticipating picking up the dogs that day.
To tie this back into the discussion about child safety, I think it's great that we have as a society become more aware of responsible pet ownership. But I also think people can overthink these things. They are dogs. You feed them, you train them where to do their business, etc., you play with them. It's not rocket science. I'm sure there will be some glitches along the way, but I'm not excessively worried.
LOL! No way Eileen. I think blogging about fictional characters (Don't shoot me if anyone does this) is kinda weird.
I talk to my friends about the Gosselin blogs too. They basically think it's nuts. I make fun of myself and they make fun of me. Really though...my friends and I making fun of each other...it's kinda what we do. I'm not generally an "online community" type of gal but something about this sucked me in....
I guess because these people have no shame and that has to be based purely on ignorance. And putting your kids in your avatar if you're spewing hate? That's just wonderful. I don't understand the "passion" to hate this family. Actually, I don't want to understand it.
February 24, 2009 1:20 PM
That's just super. The child advocates are exploiting their own children. Geeze, they are a dumb bunch. I feel sorry for their kids, with these moms teaching them their ill ways, or at the very least being hateful in some way or passing along their attitudes.
I really can understand why and how Kate and Jon could totally ignore the hate blogs. First and foremost, they only spread lies. It's very counterproductive and a timewaster for them to even look on those blogs. Really, the only people they (the hate blogs) get through to is other haters. Everone else knows they are immature and full of lies. Look at how many lies get started before an episode is to air, only for everyone to see for themselves that those lies were unfounded.
I agree with you Toto, I dont' understand the passion to hate this family, nor do I want to either.
Thanks, Theresa, but its actually kind of a joke :). I am considering going for my doctorate but not sure I am really interested in college level teaching... so we shall see what happens. Just thought I'd try it on for size though and see if it suits me!!
rain88, I totally agree that Mady 'needs' the puppy- by everything Kate has said (and all that was written in "Multiple Blessings"), having the sextuplets really threw Mady more than it did Cara. Beyond the responsibility aspect I am sure it will be nice for all of the kids to have something extra to love on :).
Guin, you said "This is something I see all the time from anti-Gosselin posters - they feel they have the right to judge the Gosselins but that no one has the right to judge them for their judgments or how they express them. They are wrong."
I agree with this statement-- if you are going to have a standard of conduct, keep it consistent. While we get new posters (and possible trolls) on a daily basis here at GDNNOP, we are very cautious about putting through posts that either are blatantly inflammatory, or that are designed to just stir the pot. Whether other people feel this is 'right' or 'wrong' is irrelevant. We do our best to keep things from getting out of control because (at least for my part- the other mods can correct me if I am wrong!) we feel its best to make sure what we post is factual. Why spread rumors and hearsay and possible slander when all it takes is waiting a day to see posts suddenly disappear and other blogs deleting information and ignoring the lies that they put out there?
So, you've decided to buy a dog from a breeder—but you don't want to support someone who doesn't have their dogs' best interest at heart.
This excerpt was taken from the Human Society website. I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
Just as an FYI, I just accidentally published two posts instead of rejecting them. I apologize if any of our subscibed posters got those in their inboxes-- it was my mistake. They have been deleted now, both for being inflammatory and one for having an offensive screenname.
This public service announcement is now over - we can return to our regularly scheduled Gosselin discussion :).
Eileen, my avatar is actually in response to all the rumors that spring up after a pic of Jon showed up at a bar. I had read they were supposedly split, etc. I thought it was silly.
Mrsref, I remember the concrete playgrounds and the other stupid things we invented all by ourselves. We just didn't seem to care that anything was going to hurt.
Jenn, love you Avatar, you too nomoredrama and elizabeth, and st. and I guess all of them, they are all pretty cool. I really like seeing everyone's picks.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
Hmm...I'm wondering if it's this: these people have tried and tried to "get to" the Gosselins, with very little apparent success. Maybe they are releasing their (albeit inexplicable) anger on those that they believe they can get to? Someone they can reach on the phone, force to respond to their email, etc? I don't know, I just know that the level of anger and suggestions of violence are extremely inappropriate.
All of this amazes me. It's weird, because in the blogging world some of the stuff like the new house and puppies are known ahead of time. There's always an outrage about something. But, when they see it with their own eyes, when the episode finally airs, their fuse gets lit.
LongTimeLurker said...I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
Thanks for the link, LTL. I read through it and it contains a lot of important and valuable information. I would urge anyone considering a pet from a breeder to read this.
That said, I only saw two guidelines the breeder and the Gosselins' did not follow:
-the housing of the animals outside; -not having the family visit the potential pet multiple times.
I think these guidelines are good ones, but I don't know if they are the most important ones on the list. Personally I feel if a breeder and potential owner comply with the majority of these recommendations, I think they are being responsible and clearly have the animals best interest at heart.
Let's remember that we don't see everything and it's possible that more in-depth consultation was held between J&K and the breeder than we were shown.
As a general rule, I do believe people should adopt from animal shelters (that's where I have always found my pets), but I also realize the whole world doesn't share my POV.
Oh, and this *isn't* directed at you, LTL, but the above is my long-winded way of agreeing with others that the breeder certainly doesn't deserve "to be shot" as I have been told a mod at one of the mini hate blogs suggested he be.
Did it bother anyone that when the kids thanked Kate, she yelled back, "You're not welcome!" I thought it was unkind.
I've always been a fan of the show, but it does seem to be taking a turn, and not for the better. Kate seems to be changing, a little superficial, between her clothes, the house, the dogs, etc. She seems a little less down to earth than she used to be.
I can't imagine how hard it would be to have tons of tv viewers judging me as a parent, so I empathize with Kate. But I can't help but hope for the entire families sake that the show draws to a close soon.
I missed the episode, but will try to catch it at some point. Thanks for the great recaps! Thoughts about the anti-Gosselin sites: things were fine until Kate started looking better, dressing better, getting new things, etc. I noticed that when her life started getting "better", the claws came out. I honestly believe that if she had stayed frumpy-looking, gained a lot of weight, was stuck in a small house and was hurting financially, people would be sympathetic and kind. And what does all that mean? Jealousy. Most hate and evil in this world is caused by that one word. I've only been to the anti sites a couple of times, and they truly made me sick. This is a great site, it keeps a positive tone, even if not all of us agree on certain issues.
I also loved the show and the cute puppies. Kate was so funny. My kids are I laughed so much because a few episodes ago she also disgusted by the dirty fridge and the dirt in the basement and now she will be cleaning pee and poop. Surely this will kill her!
We have had quite a few trolls today trying to get through statements like erin leigh's.
In my view, its different because saying something about killing another person on the internet is apples and oranges when compared to saying it in the heat of the moment during a discussion between parents. Jon knows Kate would never do that. No one knows whether some anonymous blogger or commenter on the internet would. THAT is why its different.
As an example, if I tell my brother to go play in traffic, am I actually telling him to go play in traffic? No-- even if I am pissed he knows I love him and would never want to hurt him or have him in a bad situation. BUT if someone on some blog decides to tell him to go play in traffic we have no idea what their motives, intentions, or actual life is like and thus cannot make the same conclusion.
If other people have other takes feel free to share, but keep in mind that even when you think you're anonymous you will still be held accountable for your statements. Kate is held to what she says to Jon's face in real life-- and was raked over the coals for a statement made that no one actually thought she would carry through with. And now, some bloggers and commenters online are being held accountable for what they are saying to this degree because we do not see them say this to the breeder, or Jon and Kate's faces. They are saying it behind blog names and anonymity and 'submitted posters' who take the heat instead of those that should be held responsible for what they choose to post.
ummm. kate said jon should be shot for not using a coupon. where was your outrage "at the expression" then?
I don't care for the expression either, but people who are familiar with each other sometimes say things like that to each other. Surely you can see the difference between a husband and wife arguing and someone posting the written word on a website about a stranger. Not to mention it's also stated that Jeff should be going into hiding because people want his head.
One last comment on the dog thing. I did read the Humane Society info and remembered I DID think it weird when they brought the dogs in and someone said the dogs didn't know what to do because they had never been in a house. I hope they did have lots of people contact like recommended.
erin leigh, please email me at dearlizabeth@gmail.com if you would like to chat, since your comment was directed at me.
We have posting guidelines on the sidebar which you may find helpful. Also, remember that since many of us are aware of what is said on other blogs and other sites, we at times choose to make generalizations with phrases such as "over there" and "you guys". While you were apparently offended at this, it is done so that one anonymous or 'new' poster is not singled out. Again, feel free to email me with any questions. Thanks!
ummm. kate said jon should be shot for not using a coupon. where was your outrage "at the expression" then?
I dont remember Kate saying that- probably bc it was a wife making a passing comment (albeit hateful), Not a blogger spewing off a hateful tirade followed by a number of hateful/irrational comments by the blog's followers. Repitition tends to make more of an impact, especially when its directed at a total stranger.
Kate didnt launch a campaign against Jon- what most of us have a problem with is the total irrationality of statements like this and the fact that if it weren't in association to Jon and KATE, 99% of those people wouldnt have been quite so outraged.
Regulars here are often accused of being Kate's superfans/ Kate wannabe's which couldnt be further from the truth for most of- lots of us don't even like her all that much. However- we realize that she isn't the evil monster/villain that she is often painted as, by others in the blog world. For some reason this fact makes us hated and despised and an object of hateful discussion elsewhere- frankly I could not care less what a group of irrational people think about me, the fact that I find them irrational/crazy/hateful to the core makes me happy that they don't like me- I must be doing something right.
This is my argument with my kids about blogging. No one really knows what you mean, and I find myself having to explain over and over again as I get accused of maybe having not so nice motives or intentions. Or I find that I leave a comment and then someone uses my name later to leave the exact opposite view, now I know there are lots of Eileen's in the world but it happened even when I used a nickname like my daughter told me to. So now I only leave comments on very few sites. My daughter leaves them all over the place using different names all the time, I don't know how she keeps track. And she's fighting with other bloggers (or posters? I'm not sure what the correct term is), she seems to thrive on that, but I have enough controversy in my life, I don't want this to be anything more than a pleasant past time.
In the world of dog breeders, it's not too difficult to get AKC papers. I do not think this breeder was a puppy mill, by any means. He's a breeder. He probably breeds German Shepherds because of his love for the breed.
We only know what we've seen on TV. Kate's comments about them "not ever being in a home" doesn't necessarily mean they have never been "inside." It's pretty common for puppies (from any breeder) not to have experienced an actual house setting. It doesn't mean they haven't been socialized, either.
I think these dogs will have a nice life. It will be interesting to see who bonds with them the most over time.
My child's sitter has two German Shepherds and a house full of kids (her own and the ones she babysits). They are both fantastic with the kids.
We've had three dogs in our family, and I have to admit that two were really impulse buys. The first was at a pet store in upstate New York and one of our sons fell in love with this little Pug (Ernest T. Pugsley) and so did the rest of us. A few years later we did do research on dogs and we went to a breeder in New Jersey to get a Yellow Lab (Jedediah), he was good fit with the Pug and the rest of us, but he was very energetic! My son was wonderful about caring for both dogs, walking and feeding them each day, and I loved having them around all the time. A few years after that we were on vacation in South Carolina and a woman who happened to breed Lhasa Apso (spelling?) dogs was going on vacation and needed to sell them off fast. We were just walking to the beach and she came out of her house and asked us if we wanted one. She had three left and they were all in a playpen in her house and I just couldn't resist, so we drove home with Gizmo (a name the breeder had already given him, and she very nicely gave us a book about the breed along with lots of other stuff), Gizmo was not a good fit with the other dogs though, and he was mean and nasty with everyone but me! So out of the three dogs, I only did my homework with Jed. They've all passed years ago (Pugsley was ten when he passed, Jed was sixteen, and Gizmo was twelve) and now my grandson keeps asking for a puppy, but it is a lot of work and I'm not as young as I used to be. I'd have to think long and hard about it and do a lot of homework on which breed would be best, and I let my daughter know that I don't want her bringing a dog into this house without warning me! From what I've read it doesn't look like the Gosselin's did their homework either. But live and learn. I'm sure it's going to be a lot more work than anticipated, but the good outweighs the bad, and once the relationship develops there's no turning back anyway, so you just cope with it all and you don't even notice the work of them anymore.
themrs said... if i were them i'd name the dogs aunt jodi and beth. that would've started a sh$@*storm.
Now that would have been great! :-)
Thanks for the additional info, Mom.
Lizabeth, Samantha, Merryway, etc. You say it much better than I can.
Tex JJ said...I missed the episode, but will try to catch it at some point. Thanks for the great recaps! Thoughts about the anti-Gosselin sites: things were fine until Kate started looking better, dressing better, getting new things, etc. I noticed that when her life started getting "better", the claws came out.
Exactly, you will never convince that envy and jealousy are not a big component for many of the most rabid Gosselin detractors.
This excerpt was taken from the Human Society website. I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
Right, because everyone, ESPECIALLY the "advocates," has followed those suggestions TO THE LETTER when they got their pets, right? Because to complain about the Gosselins would be hypocritcal, otherwise, woudln't it?
Go figure!
So, NO ONE complaining about the Gosselins on "the other sites" has ever bought a pet at a pet store at the mall, or from a "backyard breeder," or because they read something about puppies or kittens in the classified ads in their local paper? They never took a dog off a friend's or relative's hands for free because those people were giving them away? They THOROUGHLY researched every dog breed before purchasing, knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that this animal fit into their lifestyle? Congratulations! You're better than 95% of animal owners, then!
Actually, speaking as a seven year vet of a no kill shelter who has fostered 10 pups/dogs for adoption and has interviewed potential families for adoption, the Gosselins did MUCH MORE than most people when adding a puppy to the family. They went to a reputable breeder who knows the breed of dog. Kate called him and discussed the possibility before deciding. The breeder, in turn, got to know the Gosselins and decided whether to trust them with his animals and volunteered to take them back should it not work out. It wasn't a spur of the moment decision like "Oh look, puppies! Let's get one!" Kate took exacting notes on what she should get for the pups (especially considering that both she and Jon are novices). They picked the pups out before telling the children about it (Sorry, Mady, but your parents did the right thing). Kids shouldn't pick the animal. They don't pay attention to temperament, just cuteness.
The Gosselins are beginners. They are going to have to fly by the seats of their pants, because even though Kate bought a book on German Shepherds at the pet store and read articles on the Internet (ANOTHER POSITIVE, she actually DID RESEARCH), it's still a learning experience.
I've had many dogs. I've worked with many dogs. People seek out my advice when it comes to dogs. But, I am not perfect. My cat? Someone came into our office 12 years ago and said, "Hey, anyone want a cat?" STRIKE ONE in Perfect Pet Ownership. My current dog, Molly? Paid $200 bucks from a backyard breeder. STRIKE TWO in Perfect Pet Ownership. Even worse, we stopped when we saw a sign on the side of the road and took her home that night. Total spur of the moment. I wasn't even INTENDING on getting this kind of dog. I had always had Shepherds. Oh, wow. STRIKE THREE in Perfect Pet Ownership. By the way, she's 10 years old now. I think I learned along the way. Second dog, Micah, was an adopted dog from the shelter that I had started volunteering at, so I was properly vetted by them. WOW. I finally got it right! Eyeroll.
Oh, and BITE ME to whoever says otherwise about whether I'm a GOOD pet owner. I know I am. My pets are spoiled, happy, and live like Kings/Queens. They've never lived life on the end of a chain. They are house pets (no matter how freaking big they are). They've never been struck with an object or yanked by their collars or kicked or abused. I've seen dogs come into the shelter that would make you cry and want to KILL (just a term of expression for all you "advocates" out there) the human responsible. You would also be shocked at the amount of applicants we catch in bald faced lies and the amount of dogs that are ultimately returned. So, excuse me if I find all this whining and complaining about Jon and Kate to be a bunch of unmitigated crap. I've seen it all. It would break your heart.
These people are not even CLOSE to being considered irresponsible pet owners.
McB, thank you for your perspective on the breeder and puppy choice-- I appreciate how you mention that the way you get a puppy or kitten is not near as important as the life it has in your household. No, I do NOT support puppy mills but I do think that whether the cat was found out in your yard, or in a box on the street (makes me think of that Disney movie, "Oliver and Company"!), or the puppy is in a breeders care the ultimate goal is to give that pet a loving home.
Also I would LOVE to chat with you sometime about the puppy I am looking to get when I buy my house-- I have some ideas of a breed I would like to look for but am not sure its a good fit for me and my lifestyle. You have far more knowledge on this than I do so it would be great to hear your opinion! Thanks :).
Sure Liza Beth. I'm no expert, but I can tell you what I do know! Or I can ask another volunteer who might know the answer.
And yes, the important part is ultimately not where you got the animal, but that you do the right thing by it. I would never buy a pup from the pet store at the mall who use puppy mills for their stock, but yeah, I always stop in and marvel at the cuteness. Ultimately, I think it's a double edged sword. Those puppies in the window DO need good homes, like any other dog. It IS more desirable to seek out a shelter, or a breed rescue (if you prefer a purebred dog). But really, the backyard breeder and the responsible breeder that does this for a living, already have the pups. What happens to them if no one buys them? Dumped off at a shelter? Or worse....
So, my first stop would be local shelters. Or, search for a breed rescue on the Internet. But, I really don't look down my nose at someone who went to a breeder. Some of the volunteers I work with do, however. As long as you think about your decision, weigh the pros and cons, ESPECIALLY THE EXPENSE. People don't realize that ownership COSTS. I do look down my nose at people that don't get their animals vaccinated, or those who keep them outside with a frozen bowl of water and no attention. I strongly advocate spaying and neutering and hope Jon and Kate do this before Nala gets "her first period." The last thing they want is Nala gettin' it on with her brother. I am sure that the ex-cop stressed this, too. Responsible breeders are advocates for keeping the bloodlines pure. That means, NO BREEDING RELATIVES. My mom brought home a German Shepherd pup when I was in high school. Gretchen was beautiful, sweet and gentle, but we found out later that this breeder had a reputation for inbreeding its dogs. My mother got Gretchen spayed as soon as the vet told her that (not that we wanted to breed her, but accidents happen).
Research is key BEFORE you bring that adorable little face home. Especially since the Adorable Little Face eventually turns into Somewhat Cute Pup Who Pees Inside, Bad Doggy Who Poops Inside, REALLY Bad Dog Who Chews Furniture, Horny Dog Who Humps Everything and Sniffs the Crotches of Company, and Damned Dog Who Just Cost Me $400 at the Vet's Office.
Especially since the Adorable Little Face eventually turns into Somewhat Cute Pup Who Pees Inside, Bad Doggy Who Poops Inside, REALLY Bad Dog Who Chews Furniture, Horny Dog Who Humps Everything and Sniffs the Crotches of Company, and Damned Dog Who Just Cost Me $400 at the Vet's Office.
MCB- thanks for the laugh, I needed it! And soooo TRUE too!
MCB, thanks so much for your post. It occurs to me that the haters are holding the Gosselins to the same impossibly high standards as dog owners as the hold them to as parents. I guess it's not surprising. I am sure there are things they could have done better, but it does appear that they did some research. Once again, there are no gradations in the haters' world, and any dog owner (well, if they happen to be named Gosselin) who doesn't follow all of the recommended steps to perfection is another Michael Vick in their eyes.
Unless they are prepared to train two german shepherd puppies it was a big mistake. My Shepherd is 16 months old, very active, requires 2hours of exercise minimum per day, plus intellectual and obedience training. German Shepherds are intelligent and require a lot of maintenance training to be safe dogs for the family and the community. Unless JOn or Kate had shepherds before and know what they are in for, or they have an in-house private trainer, it was not a good idea for the dogs. AND THEY SHED 365 DAYS A YEAR! GOod luck Kate.
Now that the Gosselins live in a more spacious home, Jon and Kate have agreed that it's time to expand their already large family. To the delight of the Gosselin children, the whole family sets out to get two new puppies!
108 comments:
I'm not sure that I could handle 8 kids and 2 dogs.
I'm scared to even get one dog - I'd love to have one, but they are so much responsibility!
Maybe if you already have 8 kids, 2 dogs doesn't seem like that much of a big deal to add to the mix.
I never had a dog when I was growing up. My mom felt her numerous children and the neighbors' pets would satisfy. I suspect she suffered from having to give away her childhood pets when she moved and didn't want the heartbreak for us though. I wanted one, so I am happy for the G's kids. I will confess that I don't have a dog myself right now, and I do have a child who wants one. We will consider it once we are settled in a new home next year (we have to convince her dad first.)
If I were excited to teach it everything, puppies would be great. But I want a 1 yo rescue dog that already knows it's personal manners!
Anonymous, please resubmit your comment with a screenname and we would be happy to post your thoughts. Thanks!
we only have 2 kids but we have 5 pets. 3 dogs and 2 cats. Each animal has it's own personality and it's like having additional kids.
I too heard that they already had to give up the dogs because one of the kids was allergic. Sad but hopefully they can choose another pet that all the kids can enjoy.
Happy Monday to everyone!
Ahhhh, puppy breath! Can't wait to see these two little furballs! My little one's sitter has two German Shepherds. They "herd" the kids she babysits.
As a mom to two labradors, I was thinking the Gs would have gone the retriever route. Good thing I didn't make any wagers on it! :-)
Always had a dog growing up but I never had one as an adult. After watching my Mom grieve because she had to put the dogs down because of illness, I never wanted to go through it. I hope the Gosselins keep the dogs, I have heard the rumors also. From the video Mady seems to be the one to have the most interaction with them. Go Mady!
I can't wait to see this episode. We have a German Shepherd, named Emma, and she is the most gentle, loving dog I have ever been around. She's also a scairdy cat! I wonder where the rumors come from that they have already gotten rid of them. Does that really make sense, with all the land they now have they will probably be more outdoor dogs than indoor. So many of the rumors we hear are proved false.
Where did this rumor about them giving away the dogs come from? It seems to contradict everything that I've actually seen. Jon talked about the dogs just a couple of weeks ago at Penn State and an upcoming episode is about a trip to the vet. If they got them at XMas that would mean they have had the dogs long enough to bond with them, train them, and know whether someone is allergic. It doesn't add up. Maybe the trip to the vet has something to do with it?? I hope not.
I love dogs and I'm waiting until the kids are old enough. I grew up with dogs and cats and I want that for my children. We had a german sheppard for awhile and they can protect you for sure. Our dog didn't like bald men and I don't know why...lol. Our dog was prejudice..go figure :)
Cincymom,
I totally agree. I can't have a dog now but when I do I'll adopt a one year old, hopefully already housebroken dog. At least at this point in my life, training a puppy is not on my top ten list of things I want to do.
I agree that it would be weird if they got rid of the dogs. Guess we'll know soon enough.
I wonder how Kate in particular will deal with house breaking the dogs.
Good for her to ease up a little. Animals are a lot of work but what a wonderful thing for the kids.
TLC has a video and pics of the puppies up on there site...
Here is a thought I had as I was looking at the pics of the dogs on TLC. I wonder if one of the reasons they got 2 dogs (2 dogs that will be big at that) is partly for security reasons.
Housebreaking two puppies at once? I think that might be the final nail in the "obsessive compulsive neat freak's" coffin. Kate had to let go of some of those OCD/germophobic tendencies when she had six babies at once. Whatever traces of the old Kate is still left will disappear once TWO fluffy balls of fur start piddling and pooing in that new house. Heh.
And if Mady is the one bonding most to the pups, then I see that as a good thing. If she does have jealousy issues (and we've all seen her meltdowns), these two pups could be just what she needs. The love of a dog is the best kind of therapy.
As far as the rumor of the dogs being given away (this is the first I've heard it mentioned), until I SEE it with my own eyes, or Jon and Kate CONFIRM it an appearance or interview, then I will chalk it up to just another ugly rumor started by the petty, jealous, "advocate" trolls.
And yes, I think the fact that they got German Shepherds is partly for security reasons. Gee, what ever could make them think that they need to be protected from anything?
Puppies are hard work- I think I would rather care for a newborn!
cwats76 -
I too wondered if the 2 dogs and the breed were also for security reasons.
And I remember one of the other sites said that the dog that they got was a standard poodle.
So much for that.
I don't think German Shepherd Dogs will do well in that household. They are wonderful dogs but need structure. I don't think the chaos in that house would be good for the dogs. Kate is so germphobic she should avoid pets entirely or consider giving the kids riding lessons or time to volunteer at the animal shelter so the animals would not be near the house and her.
We got two puppies when we got settled in our house and having two was the best thing. The puppies play with each other and it keeps the gnawing on furniture to a minimum. They keep each other company so as they get older, it's easier to leave them. In two years, ( that's right two years,)they will be settled and loving their life with their dogs.
As a German Shepherd owner, I can't wait to see the puppies. GS's are great dogs. Loving and obedient. But they do shed like crazy. I hope Kate has a good pet vaccuum.
GS's are a great choice for the Gosselin's security.
I agree that it's nice to get two of the dogs or cats if you can. We always had dogs (have two now + two cats). It was always easier to leave them alone if they have someone else to be with. As much as I love them, I feel like I never give them all the time they deserve and it's nice they have each other.
I don't believe that the puppies are gone. The post that I think was the beginning of rumor is not to be found anymore.
Oh the show is on.
Ok, just found this funny. 5 minutes into the show and I pegged 3 things that "other" blog would complain and rant and rave about.
5 minutes in and they are ALREADY at it! And, no surprise, they are flipping out over EXACTLY what I pegged them to.
And they call us sheeple?
Interesting episode.... I was wondering about their choice in breed and how all that happened so its definitely more clear now. They had a breeder they met and trusted that spoke highly of the breed, they got two because they can keep each other company, and they have the land for both dogs to roam. I also think its important how she assured the kids no matter what they are named or which ones are picked, the entire family would love the puppies chosen. I remember having pets my parents chose when I was younger and really not being a fan at first... then in time you love them anyway :).
I thought it was funny that Jon and Kate talked about how they were more scared to bring the puppied home than with a baby! I also liked that they did the interview when they had already had the dogs for 6 weeks and how Kate discussed preparing and having a schedule set.
Oh and apparently the satanic death trap of a trampoline is not owned by Jon and Kate. We can all rest easy :). And Kate and Jon did pay for them too- so no worries about the dogs being free either, though he did donate the proceeds of the puppies to a child with cancer.
How cute was it that Alexis went up tot the cage when they were leaving and said "Goodbye doggies-- I'll be back!" Cara and Mady were thrilled by the time they left as well-- which is always a good thing. Its also great that Jon and Kate have the twins to help out-- this is a great responsibility. They were laughing and joking around a lot as well-- it was funny how the kids joked about how Mommy is mean at the end when she was saying they are not welcome for the puppies (after a crazy busy day and lots of poop and pee to clean up). Yeah- the kids were joking since they were laughing and giggling about how they should name the puppies mommy and daddy :).
Now, how can you defend these people after seeing this show. This was a pure and simple publicity stunt. Those puppies had no chance of staying then Elvis is still alive. Bye bye puppies, bye bye puppies bye bye bye bye this was just a TLC stunt for ratings.... bye bye puppies... Come on... I loved this show in the beginning, but this past season have seen some things that sickened me and every show just gets worse... Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials.... I'm sorry but I try to see the best in people but this season it is impossible, with the body language on the couch.... Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
Yeah I think I got suckered into believing the puppies were already gone.
They are adorable. 2 is also a good idea when you have 8 kids. Maybe they won't fight as much over who gets to do what with the dog.
I was a little surprised that they let that many kids on the trampoline without a net. My dad bought my kids one to share for their birthday but he got the net to go with it. He is a OR nurse and he said he sees a lot of broken bones from trampolines without nets.
Puppies were cute. I would have died not being prepared and bringing them home. Seems as though they have their routine together.
Watching Mady tonight...what a sensitive child. News of the puppies' names brought her to tears. She was anxious about who'd be picking the dogs out. But she came around and was so cute and truly happy with her puppies! Jon and Kate handled it very well, just addressed her in a matter-of-fact manner and didn't let her upset feelings spoil anything. And she came around. I was so happy for the older girls when they announced that they have dogs, just like everyone else in their class! Cara was cute saying, "Now we do!"
That scene with the adult dog and the puppy was precious.
Aaden was cute too. It's funny how some kids are more noticeable from one show to the next.
Annie, I am not a good sheeple, I almost missed the show (had a lovely long nap).
I am laughing so hard five minutes into it. I love those moments when you think your kids are going to have this wonderful reaction and it goes the opposite. They can be so contrary when you think you're going to have a Brady moment with them. :)
Oh, that's where the TLC clip is from, the breeder's place. It was confusing because J&K were talking more in the present and I just thought it was on their property. I wondered why there was a full grown Shepherd in that clip. The former trouper has a nice layout for kids, I wonder if he does educational presentations or something.
Mady and Cara's: we're the only kids in school who don't have dogs and “now we do” was so cute. I thought it was such a normal thing for a kid to say. Having a puppy is the status or the norm, not the fact that they have their own show.
Oh, that's cute at the end when all the kids thank their mom and dad. I couldn't understand the second thing they said after that, it sounded like, something something “cheese?” and then Colin/Aaden (?) says we should name mommy and daddy.
The kids were adorable, another episode I really enjoyed. I liked Kate a lot in this episode (can you believe it?). I thought she handled everything great and was pleasant to watch. They didn't snipe at each other on the couch which was really nice. I hope we get to see more of the dogs with the kids in the future.
They've had the puppies since Christmas and it was never heard of before Jon's talk at PSU. The show is edited, and we just don't get to see and know it all.
Elizabeth, I had a little giggle when I saw that the death trap trampoline was not another freebie.
Annie
That was too funny! They seem to notice more detail then people who actually like the show! I think the dogs were cute and they will do fine once they and the family get a routine set up. I miss my childhood dog Gizmo, so I hope those dogs bring the kids lots of great memories.
Merryway,
Kate looked rested and engaged on the couch. I thought it was a good episode for her. My husband noticed she was pleasant, though we predicted she'd be loud and screeching about the puppies. She wasn't. You know, I think Kate is one of those "baby" people who just connect with infants and, in this episode, puppies. She was sweet when Nala licked her face.
Truman said...Kate is so germphobic she should avoid pets entirely or consider giving the kids riding lessons or time to volunteer at the animal shelter so the animals would not be near the house and her.
I haven't seen the show yet (but, I very much appreciate reading the recaps from Saint, Annie, Merryway, Dr. Lizabeth, etc!).
As others have said, time will tell as to how this will turn out, but I certainly don't think Kate's self-admitted germophobe tendencies should squash plans for a family pet. She's already made some progress in this area, and maybe having some puppies around are just what she needs to make further strides. I know, I am thinking optimistically. It's actually a nice state of mind to be in. :-)
St., Yeah, I was surprised. It's nice to see Kate like that. I remember her practically melting on the couch after the trip from HI, she was so relaxed. I really think she pushes herself too hard. All this time she's been traveling and having to deal with being away from her kids (the thought that this might be hard for her never seems to enter the mind of some), she also had two puppies in the mix. Oh my!
As a fellow mom and a BIG dog lover, I certainly understand a little “buyer's remorse” in the beginning. Also, with Mady's reaction and some of the other's to finding out they were getting the puppies; I think some of those moments happen before children know what to do with that little adrenalin rush of excitement. After having many defeated moments with my boys (they outgrew it around 8-9), I realized they were just too excited to know what to do at first and it was something new to think about. Mady does seem like a little pessimist sometimes or that she wants to make sure it's going to be a certain way. I loved her moments at the end. I just read they were chanting back “mommy's mean”. I think it was just a cute teasing moment after a long day. Some just don't seem have a sense of humor about anything or ever joked in a similar way with their own. I've also read how awful that J&K didn't let their children name the puppies. How ridiculous is that? I've never seen this manual of the perfect mom to which these haters must constantly refer. According to the rules they have for Kate, I have been the worst mother in the world. The lady has 8 kids and has allowed two puppies in the mix, two puppies that will grow into huge dogs and cost a lot of money and require a lot of care. She gets a halo from me on this one.
I think it's evident why they chose Shepherds as the breed of choice.
Disgusted, I am amazed how you just know the puppies are “bye bye”. I wonder what show you watched as I believe the puppies are here to stay. Even if some of kids did turn up to be allergic, it might be a manageable situation.
Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
I have no idea to what lie you are referring.
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials
I don't know if the Gs want you to endure anything, but I'm sure TLC thanks you for watching their show.
When I read the anti-Gosselin comments, they fall into 2 categories for me: those from viewers who don't like the parents but still like the show, and those from people who have to "endure the Gosselins," like Disgusted up thread:
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials.
If it's really that unbearable, just turn the channel. 24 is on Fox. That's what I'd recommend.
I thought it was funny that the first thing the puppies did was pee on Kate's carpet.
Puppies are harder than children. You have to take them outside to go, in the cold, wet and dark of night! It's much easier to stumble into the kiddo's room and change a diaper!
I didnt see the whole thing bc I was busy but the first half was cute. Kids know how to take the wind out of your sails don't they? It was funny to see how the dogs melted Kate who in the past was so against getting pets. I'm sure the kids will love their new friends and I think getting two is a good (and ambitious) idea. They will certainly have lots of room to run and play :)
I've been a dog owner my whole life, which included several German Shepherds, since they were the breed of choice for both my grandparents and parents. They are indeed smart, loyal, and YES, they shed. The male pup has especially beautiful markings. They are good family dogs and should be great with the kids, but at the same time are great security when it comes to people OUTSIDE the family unit.
Buyers remorse? Oh yes. It will happen. Kate WILL threaten to get rid of them on a daily basis, and that is mostly out of frustration every time one of them poops or chews. Hell, I do it and I have many years of dog raising experience, including 8 years volunteering for a local no kill shelter. Jon and Kate being rookies at having pets will add to that. It's going to be a learning experience for them. Since they have the income, I would recommend a professional trainer and I hope the breeder is willing to give them pointers when things get rocky (they're pups, it will get rocky). He looks like the kind of breeder that knows what he's doing, so that's a good thing.
Okay, hint number one, Gosselins. NEWSPAPERS. You just put a pen with poopy puppies on CARPETING? At first I thought it was on the hard wood floors (oy vey!), but there's definitely some carpet pieces in that pen. PUT THAT PEN ON THE TILE FLOORING and then PUT NEWSPAPERS DOWN. Lord have mercy! Rookies! They'll learn!
Oh, I'm sorry "Disgusted," what were you saying again? I don't think anyone heard you. Perhaps preaching to the choir over on the "advocates" site would be more to your liking?
Disgusted,
I have heard rumors that Elvis is still alive. I heard he faked his death and relocated with a new identity to escape people who were spreading malicious rumors about him.
Wait a minute. Maybe I have him mixed up with Jon Gosselin.
Oh, I'm sorry "Disgusted," what were you saying again? I don't think anyone heard you. Perhaps preaching to the choir over on the "advocates" site would be more to your liking?
Forgive me if I am interpretting Disgusted's comment incorrectly, but he/she only posed a question of what "your" defense would be.
If this board has a firm stance then by all means, discuss your "stance" - it seems the majority of the discussion here is what goes on elsewhere. Actually, your comment of "I don't think anyone heard you", puts a lot of things in perspective.
JMHO
My husband noticed she was pleasant, though we predicted she'd be loud and screeching about the puppies. She wasn't. You know, I think Kate is one of those "baby" people who just connect with infants and, in this episode, puppies. She was sweet when Nala licked her face.
Very sweet episode. And yeah, I think Kate melted with the pups a bit because they are babies. Forgive the bad pun, but this was definitely an episode where we saw that Kate's bark was worse than her bite. She kvetched (a lot!), but in such a good-natured way, it was hard to take it seriously. It was almost like she was just playing the curmedgeon role, but when you saw her cuddling Nala, that was the "real Kate".
I loved her moments at the end. I just read they were chanting back “mommy's mean”. I think it was just a cute teasing moment after a long day.
That was cute! I like seeing that stuff because it confirms for me that the kids get Kate's sarcasm (which admittedly, can be hard for very young children to understand), and don't take it seriously. If Kate is going to be the way we all know she can be, then I think the best thing is for her family to let her be that way but not take it seriously.
Bye bye puppies, bye bye puppies bye bye bye bye this was just a TLC stunt for ratings.... bye bye puppies... Come on...
And you know this how? I think of "stunts" as like, Evel Knievel over the Grand Canyon or something. This was a family getting some dogs. The conspiracy theories get whackier all of the time.
Thank God the tups will start school full-time and we will only endure Gosselin specials
You poor thing! If you can type in your address, we can send the authorities over and they'll release you from whatever horrid bondage that FORCES you to "endure" this show. I'm picturing something out of "A Clockwork Orange" myself.
I'm sorry but I try to see the best in people but this season it is impossible
Yes, I've noticed a surfeit of people who TRY to see the best in people and fail miserably. They never seem to see the fault in themselves, though. Hmm.
Jon cannot even keep his emotions hidden on the couch anymore and as you can see in tonight's episode he was just living the lie....
I thought J&K appeared more relaxed and comfortable with each other than they have in the past few episodes. But I'm not psychic or empathetic, and I've misplaced my Kate-hating goggles, so I'm sure I'm not watching the same show that you are.
I loved this episode. The kids were cute and I loved how Kate left the dog kennel and said Ok I have my dogs. And her running to be the first one to get to the dogs.
I loved Aaden and how he was afraid of the dogs and wanted to make sure they were locked up and couldn't get out. And Alexis telling the dogs goodbye and I will be back.....those kids are too cute.
I also think that all the episodes we have seen this year were taped last yr during the move...which was why they were always out and about and that they were filler episodes unti they showed them moving. I don't know why TLC waited to show the big move so long, but it is obvious that they moved when it was warmer out. I think Kate was stressed about with moving, 8 kids, 2 dogs and all of her speaking engagements plus the holidays and it has showed in some episodes, especially on the couch. She was much more relaxed last night and if they got the puppies the beginning of Dec this interview was taped in Jan, when things have settled down.
I thought this was a great day-in-the-life episode. The kids, especially Mady and Cara, were engaged and excited about getting the dogs, and Jon and Kate's "pet ignorace" was funny (having been there myself).
I've only ever gotten one puppy at a time, and it's a HUGE chore, so I think they didn't know what they were getting into at all with two. They're home a lot so that probably helped adjust to the all the work that's involved with new dogs.
I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't end up tiling the entire basement floor eventually. It appears that's where they'll be entering and exiting the house in the future (setting up kid shoe and coat "stations") and where the dogs may spend most of their "indoor" time.
***LANE FUNITURE ALERT*****
I noticed they had those wooden "lockers" in the middle of the basement (obviously still in the middle of remodeling). I was wondering if the Gosselins would ever get something like those...have always thought those were a neat idea for organizing kid gear, but have never seen them offered by anybody by Pottery Barn and LL Bean.
Also caught a glimpse of a hutch-style desk behind the dining table in the kitchen when they were eating dinner. LOVE that...inherited an antique version from my grandmother and it's a beautiful piece.
*****************************
Overall, this episode was about an 8 on the Gosselin Show Enjoyment Meter. :)
I'm an insurance agent in NJ and the Companies I write for will cancel your policy if you have a trampoline on your property. They don't care if you have a net around it either. German Shepards are also on the list of prohibited animals and can get you cancelled too. I don't have dogs myself but I think it has more to do with the training and care of the dog than the breed. My brother has two german shepards that work as K-9 dogs (drug sniffing) They are very good with their girls ages 8 and 5. My son's chihuaha on the other hand bit my 28 year old daughter on the nose for no reason.
I didn't even watch the episode yet...I was too busy watching 24 then then House.
My baa is broken I suppose. Between Jack Bauer (I say Jack not necessarily Keefer), Hugh Laurie and Sendhil Ramamurthy....ladies it's hard to tear me away.
:-)
It's amazing... the child advocates are now calling for the dog breeder to be shot. Makes a whole lotta sense to me :::rolling eyes::::
Hi Mrs Ref,
Interesting about trampolines in NJ. They are permitted in PA (I hope, because we have one.)
Jenn, I saw that and was more than appalled. I thought the whole post was so irresponsible. It's not the smartest thing in the world to harass an ex-state trooper. He obviously had a beautiful set up and place for the dogs. The dogs looked gorgeous and well cared for. I think they said he had a sniffer dog, so he prob is a contractor called in when they need his dog. I'm all for free speech, but there is a line you cross with harassment, inciting and threatening.
I thought it was because they were friends that the trooper guy donated to J&K's charity of choice and it was a nice thing for him to do. I have no idea what a security bred gs would cost, but it was money he could have put in his own pocket. They've showed us a friend, the kids having fun and doing the most normal thing of getting pets. I have really liked the last few shows.
Why would any friends of the family or the kids' friends want to be on the show if they are going to get harassed.
Kind of like Suleman's PR lady with the unwarranted death threats.
The people who believe they are in the "moral" majority sure have a funny way of showing their morals.
Merryway, I like your avatar. I'm guessing that's in reference to the Elvis is still alive post. It takes me awhile but it finally sinks in.
I didn't see the episode so I'll refrain from rendering an opinion, I'm sure my girls watched it and I'll be getting two totally different takes on it. It's amazing how people can view the exact same scenario and have completely opposite views on it! 'Sure wish I had some kind of educational background to decipher all this, or a brain that can wrap around it anyway.
Nomoredrama, I love House! What was with the ending? Does it mean he's back to the vicadin (spelling?) or does it mean he's going to live in pain? My husband is king of the remote control, he tries to watch what I'm interested in and tape the rest but he draws the line at TLC! He's a big fan of 24 too, but that's another show I never could get into big-time. I usually put on my ipod and go on the (mini) trampoline then. MrsRef I hope minis are allowed inside the house without fear of losing insurance?! Those were very interesting facts!
I thought he was donating the proceeds from the whole litter to someone with cancer so any dog he sold would benefit cancer. Although I can't have a dog because I am allergic, I would probably go to a shelter to get one. At least they didn't appear to go to a puppy mill in the Lancaster area. That seems to be a big problem in the area. As for the trampolines, I don't think that rule applies for the whole state but the companies I write for won't let you have them. they also don't like treehouses and skateboard ramps and some pools. Mini tramps are okay - they can't see them when they inspect your house.
merryway, I totally agree. talk about a lack of self-control!
They're saying the trooper should be shot? They are beyond carried away if they have somehow decided that shooting someone over something so minor is logical.
Why would they want to do harm to anyone's business, especially after they write non-sensical and inconsistent diatribe after diatribe about how hard things are right now with the recession?
the child advocates are now calling for the dog breeder to be shot. The dude is an ex cop..I had to laugh.
Before I watched this episode I was reading comments on a J&K facebook fan group and read comments about a trampoline and how deadly it was with all the kids on it. I watched the episode and had another laugh. They made it sound like they crammed all the kids on the thing at once.
Then I read Jon and Kate wasn't talking to each other on the couch and had another laugh.
I think I was laughing through the whole dang show.
The Gosselin dogs are so cute.
http://tlc.discovery.com/tv/jon-and-kate/slideshows/puppies.html
I'm getting the itch for a dog but the reality I'm not ready yet. I don't think I can handle a puppy with an almost 2 and 4 years old children. I will have to live sheeply by watching the Gosselin dogs..
I loved Aaden and how he was afraid of the dogs and wanted to make sure they were locked up and couldn't get out. And Alexis telling the dogs goodbye and I will be back.....those kids are too cute.
I was thinking about Aaden this morning fretting about the doggies - so, so cute. The boys are definitely the less adventurous kids in that family.
I can't believe someone would say that the dog breeder should be shot. Even just as an expression, you just don't SAY things like that on the internet, where they will live forever and where the have quite the possibility of being misinterpreted. I don't know what is wrong with some people. The haters seem to become more hysterical with every episode. I've observed before that it is sometimes the "nice" episodes that seem to really whip them up into a frenzy. Such a strange phenomenon to me.
Re: The trampoline. I don't think they are death traps. I would have personally preferred that it have a net around it or some adults acting as spotters. I think back to when I was a child - some of the things we played with and did. I am surprised any of us are here today. Does anyone remember the merry-go-rounds on playgrounds. You would jump on and some big kids always came and pushed it so fast, you were holding on for your life. How about see-saws? We used to go to a baby pool that was probably a foot deep and not fenced. Playgrounds were on concrete. I am surprised I survived childhood.
MrsRef I love merry go rounds!! That was always my favorite thing... spinning till you were so dizzy... those were the days :). I think that you have a great perspective though in looking back to things you did as a kid and seeing that you survived. Like most things, I feel like a balance is necessary. Yes, it would have been nice if the trampoline had a net, but it didn't and the kids seemed to be safe (i.e. there was an adult nearby that was helping them on and probably standing to the side, plus they only had I think 4 kids on at most).
As far as peoples response to the breeder, it really is a shame. People are going to respond how they choose to respond, though, and must be willing to reap the consequences. All too often those comments come from either people who are essentially anonymous, or bloggers who seem to not care how their actions affect others. I think the breeder was responsible, especially in preparing Jon and Kate for the puppies with all the information given. Plus if the way he interacted with the kids was any indication, he seemed like a really nice guy. Dogs *are* a lot of work, and I highly doubt any first time pet owner is truly ready to have that new puppy around (just like many first time parents who don't realize exactly what it means to be tired until that baby has his days and nights mixed up!!)
Thats life though-- I appreciate that Jon and Kate have chosen to allow their kids the chance to experience life, even when its inconvenient for the parents. Too many families make excuses for why they can't do things instead of taking a different approach and giving it a shot anyway.
Well, I read the post on the blog where the moderator suggested the ex-cop should be shot. I don't even understand why she is upset with him? Does anybody get the point of that post or the comments? What exactly did the Gosselins do wrong when picking out the puppies? I see a comment about there being no pet carrier. Is that really enough to condemn the breeder? Or am I missing something(s)?
As for the trampolines, I don't think that rule applies for the whole state but the companies I write for won't let you have them. they also don't like treehouses and skateboard ramps and some pools.
Wow, Mrs. Ref this company sounds like major party poopers lol. They would have loved me as a kid though- heights freaked me out so no treehouses, I didn't have the coordinatiion for a skateboard and I couldnt swim so I stayed in the shallow end! I did love a trampoline though. . .
Saint, I don't think you're missing anything. I didn't see anything wrong with how they were brought home, etc.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
In terms of the death trap trampoline, I'm surprised alot of us survived our childhoods. We jumped on netless trampolines, went swimming in lakes, played street hockey. We lived behind -gasp-railroad tracks! Yes, my mom was pretty careful when we were playing outdoors and the train went by, but can you imagine what the "advocates" would say if the Gosselin kids did all the same stuff we did as kids? I can't even imagine.
The puppies were so cute. I was glad they picked two and I really liked the names. I thought it was a good family centered episode :)
"it's just an expression..."
I seem to recall that a lot of you explain away Kate's behavior and actions and the things she says with "who really means these things".
Remember "never" really "never" means "never". (regarding the Fast Food).
So no one else is allowed to exaggerate?
I haven't been able to track down the post about shooting the breeder, but I think it's interesting that it was written by one of the moderators. You know, I had been giving the moderators over there the benefit of the doubt in the past as it seems as least they're able to string together sentences that sound somewhat intelligent. I also was wondering if they started the blog to snark about the Gosselins in an innocent manner with no intention of the site turning into a huge hate-filled blog full of idiots who make up rumors and obsess about the Gosselins. But they've allowed that to happen; and now that I hear one of the mods made such a ridiculous and ignorant comment, I have no respect for the mods. I've never had respect for the posters (that goes without saying).
I think the posters over there fail to realize that with rights come consequences.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
Hmm...I'm wondering if it's this: these people have tried and tried to "get to" the Gosselins, with very little apparent success. Maybe they are releasing their (albeit inexplicable) anger on those that they believe they can get to? Someone they can reach on the phone, force to respond to their email, etc? I don't know, I just know that the level of anger and suggestions of violence are extremely inappropriate.
Merry-go-rounds and see-saw's were the best. PA must be such a hate mongering, child abusing state because some playgrounds still have them :-)
Here's another reason to call the authorities. So many of the kid's I babysat in college had them and I would *gasp* bounce on them with the kids. Sometimes I'd even bounce high. Sure they had nets but my flagrant disregard for a child's life is so apparent. I should probably be barred from further contact with children.
*hangs head in shame*
In terms of the death trap trampoline, I'm surprised alot of us survived our childhoods. We jumped on netless trampolines, went swimming in lakes, played street hockey. We lived behind -gasp-railroad tracks! Yes, my mom was pretty careful when we were playing outdoors and the train went by, but can you imagine what the "advocates" would say if the Gosselin kids did all the same stuff we did as kids? I can't even imagine.
Things were different "back then". I'm not sure if there is much of a difference in accidental death rates, but it's not like I'm opposed to the safety measures that have been instituted for childrens' toys, playgrounds, etc. I just think sometimes people lose perspective and forget that living is perilous and the sort of freak accidents that get attention get that attention specifically because they ARE freak accidents.
(For some reason I'm reminded of a REALLY old SNL sketch - I know it's old b/c Dan Ackroyd was in it. He plays some childrens' toy manufacturer trying to convince a consumer reporter - maybe played by Jane Curtin? - that a "bag o' glass" makes an excellent toy for children of all ages.)
I seem to recall that a lot of you explain away Kate's behavior and actions and the things she says with "who really means these things".
Remember "never" really "never" means "never". (regarding the Fast Food).
So no one else is allowed to exaggerate?
About murdering someone? I don't think it's a great idea, personally. Nor do I think it reflects an appropriate level of anger at the dog breeder. Exaggerating about threats to harm someone is not really the same thing as exaggerating about how often one eats fast food.
Toto, I'm not sure that the comment is on GWoP - it's on one of the hate sites, but I'm not sure which one. I try to stay away from them as the bile is unhealthy to even come in contact with, IMO. But I totally agree with this:
I think the posters over there fail to realize that with rights come consequences.
This is something I see all the time from anti-Gosselin posters - they feel they have the right to judge the Gosselins but that no one has the right to judge them for their judgments or how they express them. They are wrong.
Toto,
The post that I found (and I think we're all talking about the same thing) is not at GWoP. It's at the psychic blog. Not only does the mod say the breeder should be physically harmed, but she seems to be threatening him with finding out his personal information because her 'readers' will do it for her. IMO it's irresponsible, far more irresponsible than paying for 2 puppies to raise in a huge house on 20+ acres.
"it's just an expression..."
I seem to recall that a lot of you explain away Kate's behavior and actions and the things she says with "who really means these things".
Remember "never" really "never" means "never". (regarding the Fast Food).
So no one else is allowed to exaggerate?
I understand what you're saying, but verbal expressions of violence are typically viewed differently than claims about fast food consumption. Most people can't get away with making posts about how another "should be shot" without getting a reaction, I havent seen the post but I would imagine that was the posters intent.
Eileen:-) I sooo hate when they tease us like that (The writers of house). I'm definitely a "Huddy" fan (House and Cuddy). Apparently there is this whole online community dedicated to talking about House and Cuddy. Interesting if that's your thing. Me, I'm just not that into it:-).
He's definitely going back on Vicodin. They won't leave House nice for long. It's all good though, sarcasm and irony are two of my favorite types of humor.
Thelengthofdefense,
You sound like you might understand that 'exaggerated' post. Could you explain what the breeder did wrong in selling two puppies to a family with tons of property and the means to care for them? I don't think the writer ever got around to actually listing her objections, besides not seeing pet carriers in the big blue van.
Nomoredrama and Eileen,
Add me to the House fan club. I loved last night's episode.
Shows you how naive I am...I didn't realize there were multiple Gosselin hate blogs out there. I was only aware of the one. I was lurking over there earlier today and noticed that a lot of posters are now using pictures of themselves or their families in their avatars. That makes me sad, I guess because these people have no shame and that has to be based purely on ignorance. And putting your kids in your avatar if you're spewing hate? That's just wonderful. I don't understand the "passion" to hate this family. Actually, I don't want to understand it.
Guinivere: That was Mainway Toys. They had the Bag of Glass and some kind of wood blocks with splinters sticking out. I agree with you that things were different back then. My daughter is having a baby in June and my youngest is 25. Boy have things changed in how you let a baby sleep, how you feed them, etc. We had this whole big discussion on drop sides on cribs, apparently that is a no-no now. I didn't think the trampoline was such a big deal even with all the kids on it. It wasn't like they were doing olympic style stunts on it or anything. As for people wanting to shoot the breeder, if that was said about a public official, I am sure one would find one's self in jail for making terroristic threats.
I understand that maybe "he should be shot" was "just an expression" however I think there would have been a much better way to get the point across without using such a negative phrase. Some people have no self-control when it comes to dragging this family (and whoever is associated with it) through the mud.
Okay, nomoredrama, was that a nice way of hinting that I should get myself out of here because I don't watch Jon & Kate and can't add anything to the forum?
I told you my family makes fun of me all the time for being a fan of this site!!
Thanks for pointing me to the House site, I'll check it out.
Saint, I don't think there's been one episode of House that I haven't enjoyed. I even loved the one where Wilson's girlfriend died (cried all through it, but still loved it).
That episode really was about What not to do when thinking about getting a dog. They seemed ill-prepared to own two puppies. We finally talked my parents into get a dog when I was younger but really didn't know what to do and he did turn out to have issues as he got older. I loved him to pieces but realized that all his issues were related to our ignorance about how to raise a well bahaved dog. I hope they put the work in. It's not going to be easy, especially since Kate is not a dog lover.
Poor Aaden, I felt for him, cowering in the corner as the big dog pouced at him. I hope he gets over his fear in a hurry. Mady seemed to be the most excited, I hope they become attached to her she seems to need it.
That episode really was about What not to do when thinking about getting a dog. They seemed ill-prepared to own two puppies. We finally talked my parents into get a dog when I was younger but really didn't know what to do and he did turn out to have issues as he got older. I loved him to pieces but realized that all his issues were related to our ignorance about how to raise a well bahaved dog. I hope they put the work in. It's not going to be easy, especially since Kate is not a dog lover.
Kate seemed very determined to get all of the information she needed. Perhaps it would have been better if they had done that all ahead of time, but you have to start somewhere, and they weren't originally anticipating picking up the dogs that day.
To tie this back into the discussion about child safety, I think it's great that we have as a society become more aware of responsible pet ownership. But I also think people can overthink these things. They are dogs. You feed them, you train them where to do their business, etc., you play with them. It's not rocket science. I'm sure there will be some glitches along the way, but I'm not excessively worried.
LOL! No way Eileen. I think blogging about fictional characters (Don't shoot me if anyone does this) is kinda weird.
I talk to my friends about the Gosselin blogs too. They basically think it's nuts. I make fun of myself and they make fun of me. Really though...my friends and I making fun of each other...it's kinda what we do. I'm not generally an "online community" type of gal but something about this sucked me in....
That addiction to drama will getcha every time.
Toto said..
I guess because these people have no shame and that has to be based purely on ignorance. And putting your kids in your avatar if you're spewing hate? That's just wonderful. I don't understand the "passion" to hate this family. Actually, I don't want to understand it.
February 24, 2009 1:20 PM
That's just super. The child advocates are exploiting their own children. Geeze, they are a dumb bunch. I feel sorry for their kids, with these moms teaching them their ill ways, or at the very least being hateful in some way or passing along their attitudes.
I really can understand why and how Kate and Jon could totally ignore the hate blogs. First and foremost, they only spread lies. It's very counterproductive and a timewaster for them to even look on those blogs. Really, the only people they (the hate blogs) get through to is other haters. Everone else knows they are immature and full of lies. Look at how many lies get started before an episode is to air, only for everyone to see for themselves that those lies were unfounded.
I agree with you Toto, I dont' understand the passion to hate this family, nor do I want to either.
by the way...Congrats DR. Lizabeth!!
Thanks, Theresa, but its actually kind of a joke :). I am considering going for my doctorate but not sure I am really interested in college level teaching... so we shall see what happens. Just thought I'd try it on for size though and see if it suits me!!
rain88, I totally agree that Mady 'needs' the puppy- by everything Kate has said (and all that was written in "Multiple Blessings"), having the sextuplets really threw Mady more than it did Cara. Beyond the responsibility aspect I am sure it will be nice for all of the kids to have something extra to love on :).
Guin, you said "This is something I see all the time from anti-Gosselin posters - they feel they have the right to judge the Gosselins but that no one has the right to judge them for their judgments or how they express them. They are wrong."
I agree with this statement-- if you are going to have a standard of conduct, keep it consistent. While we get new posters (and possible trolls) on a daily basis here at GDNNOP, we are very cautious about putting through posts that either are blatantly inflammatory, or that are designed to just stir the pot. Whether other people feel this is 'right' or 'wrong' is irrelevant. We do our best to keep things from getting out of control because (at least for my part- the other mods can correct me if I am wrong!) we feel its best to make sure what we post is factual. Why spread rumors and hearsay and possible slander when all it takes is waiting a day to see posts suddenly disappear and other blogs deleting information and ignoring the lies that they put out there?
Just feels like the right thing to do, ya know?
:)I think the title looks great! Go for it Lizabeth!
So, you've decided to buy a dog from a breeder—but you don't want to support someone who doesn't have their dogs' best interest at heart.
This excerpt was taken from the Human Society website. I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_adoption_information/how_to_find_a_good_dog_breeder/
Just as an FYI, I just accidentally published two posts instead of rejecting them. I apologize if any of our subscibed posters got those in their inboxes-- it was my mistake. They have been deleted now, both for being inflammatory and one for having an offensive screenname.
This public service announcement is now over - we can return to our regularly scheduled Gosselin discussion :).
Eileen, my avatar is actually in response to all the rumors that spring up after a pic of Jon showed up at a bar. I had read they were supposedly split, etc. I thought it was silly.
Mrsref, I remember the concrete playgrounds and the other stupid things we invented all by ourselves. We just didn't seem to care that anything was going to hurt.
Jenn, love you Avatar, you too nomoredrama and elizabeth, and st. and I guess all of them, they are all pretty cool. I really like seeing everyone's picks.
What confused me was the amount of anger that seemed to be coming from that post. It reminded me of how upset I get when I see kids riding in cars that aren't wearing a seat belt or in car seats. I don't see how one can get so upset about a family adopting two puppies. I'm wondering if the anger is being embellished to prove something....
Hmm...I'm wondering if it's this: these people have tried and tried to "get to" the Gosselins, with very little apparent success. Maybe they are releasing their (albeit inexplicable) anger on those that they believe they can get to? Someone they can reach on the phone, force to respond to their email, etc? I don't know, I just know that the level of anger and suggestions of violence are extremely inappropriate.
All of this amazes me. It's weird, because in the blogging world some of the stuff like the new house and puppies are known ahead of time. There's always an outrage about something. But, when they see it with their own eyes, when the episode finally airs, their fuse gets lit.
LongTimeLurker said...I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
Thanks for the link, LTL. I read through it and it contains a lot of important and valuable information. I would urge anyone considering a pet from a breeder to read this.
That said, I only saw two guidelines the breeder and the Gosselins' did not follow:
-the housing of the animals outside;
-not having the family visit the potential pet multiple times.
I think these guidelines are good ones, but I don't know if they are the most important ones on the list. Personally I feel if a breeder and potential owner comply with the majority of these recommendations, I think they are being responsible and clearly have the animals best interest at heart.
Let's remember that we don't see everything and it's possible that more in-depth consultation was held between J&K and the breeder than we were shown.
As a general rule, I do believe people should adopt from animal shelters (that's where I have always found my pets), but I also realize the whole world doesn't share my POV.
Oh, and this *isn't* directed at you, LTL, but the above is my long-winded way of agreeing with others that the breeder certainly doesn't deserve "to be shot" as I have been told a mod at one of the mini hate blogs suggested he be.
Did it bother anyone that when the kids thanked Kate, she yelled back, "You're not welcome!" I thought it was unkind.
I've always been a fan of the show, but it does seem to be taking a turn, and not for the better. Kate seems to be changing, a little superficial, between her clothes, the house, the dogs, etc. She seems a little less down to earth than she used to be.
I can't imagine how hard it would be to have tons of tv viewers judging me as a parent, so I empathize with Kate. But I can't help but hope for the entire families sake that the show draws to a close soon.
I missed the episode, but will try to catch it at some point. Thanks for the great recaps! Thoughts about the anti-Gosselin sites: things were fine until Kate started looking better, dressing better, getting new things, etc. I noticed that when her life started getting "better", the claws came out. I honestly believe that if she had stayed frumpy-looking, gained a lot of weight, was stuck in a small house and was hurting financially, people would be sympathetic and kind. And what does all that mean? Jealousy. Most hate and evil in this world is caused by that one word. I've only been to the anti sites a couple of times, and they truly made me sick. This is a great site, it keeps a positive tone, even if not all of us agree on certain issues.
I also loved the show and the cute puppies. Kate was so funny. My kids are I laughed so much because a few episodes ago she also disgusted by the dirty fridge and the dirt in the basement and now she will be cleaning pee and poop. Surely this will kill her!
ummm. kate said jon should be shot for not using a coupon. where was your outrage "at the expression" then?
I personally think both are extreme.
We have had quite a few trolls today trying to get through statements like erin leigh's.
In my view, its different because saying something about killing another person on the internet is apples and oranges when compared to saying it in the heat of the moment during a discussion between parents. Jon knows Kate would never do that. No one knows whether some anonymous blogger or commenter on the internet would. THAT is why its different.
As an example, if I tell my brother to go play in traffic, am I actually telling him to go play in traffic? No-- even if I am pissed he knows I love him and would never want to hurt him or have him in a bad situation. BUT if someone on some blog decides to tell him to go play in traffic we have no idea what their motives, intentions, or actual life is like and thus cannot make the same conclusion.
If other people have other takes feel free to share, but keep in mind that even when you think you're anonymous you will still be held accountable for your statements. Kate is held to what she says to Jon's face in real life-- and was raked over the coals for a statement made that no one actually thought she would carry through with. And now, some bloggers and commenters online are being held accountable for what they are saying to this degree because we do not see them say this to the breeder, or Jon and Kate's faces. They are saying it behind blog names and anonymity and 'submitted posters' who take the heat instead of those that should be held responsible for what they choose to post.
ummm. kate said jon should be shot for not using a coupon. where was your outrage "at the expression" then?
I don't care for the expression either, but people who are familiar with each other sometimes say things like that to each other. Surely you can see the difference between a husband and wife arguing and someone posting the written word on a website about a stranger. Not to mention it's also stated that Jeff should be going into hiding because people want his head.
One last comment on the dog thing. I did read the Humane Society info and remembered I DID think it weird when they brought the dogs in and someone said the dogs didn't know what to do because they had never been in a house. I hope they did have lots of people contact like recommended.
erin leigh, please email me at dearlizabeth@gmail.com if you would like to chat, since your comment was directed at me.
We have posting guidelines on the sidebar which you may find helpful. Also, remember that since many of us are aware of what is said on other blogs and other sites, we at times choose to make generalizations with phrases such as "over there" and "you guys". While you were apparently offended at this, it is done so that one anonymous or 'new' poster is not singled out. Again, feel free to email me with any questions. Thanks!
ummm. kate said jon should be shot for not using a coupon. where was your outrage "at the expression" then?
I dont remember Kate saying that- probably bc it was a wife making a passing comment (albeit hateful), Not a blogger spewing off a hateful tirade followed by a number of hateful/irrational comments by the blog's followers. Repitition tends to make more of an impact, especially when its directed at a total stranger.
Kate didnt launch a campaign against Jon- what most of us have a problem with is the total irrationality of statements like this and the fact that if it weren't in association to Jon and KATE, 99% of those people wouldnt have been quite so outraged.
Regulars here are often accused of being Kate's superfans/ Kate wannabe's which couldnt be further from the truth for most of- lots of us don't even like her all that much. However- we realize that she isn't the evil monster/villain that she is often painted as, by others in the blog world. For some reason this fact makes us hated and despised and an object of hateful discussion elsewhere- frankly I could not care less what a group of irrational people think about me, the fact that I find them irrational/crazy/hateful to the core makes me happy that they don't like me- I must be doing something right.
This is my argument with my kids about blogging. No one really knows what you mean, and I find myself having to explain over and over again as I get accused of maybe having not so nice motives or intentions. Or I find that I leave a comment and then someone uses my name later to leave the exact opposite view, now I know there are lots of Eileen's in the world but it happened even when I used a nickname like my daughter told me to. So now I only leave comments on very few sites. My daughter leaves them all over the place using different names all the time, I don't know how she keeps track. And she's fighting with other bloggers (or posters? I'm not sure what the correct term is), she seems to thrive on that, but I have enough controversy in my life, I don't want this to be anything more than a pleasant past time.
Longtime Lurker & Anya -
I read HSUS's guidelines about adopting/buying from a breeder. Here's a link to the American Humane Association's guidelines, too:
http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/adoption-pet-care/adoption-process/is-a-dog-right-for-you/buying-vs-adopting.html
In the world of dog breeders, it's not too difficult to get AKC papers. I do not think this breeder was a puppy mill, by any means. He's a breeder. He probably breeds German Shepherds because of his love for the breed.
We only know what we've seen on TV. Kate's comments about them "not ever being in a home" doesn't necessarily mean they have never been "inside." It's pretty common for puppies (from any breeder) not to have experienced an actual house setting. It doesn't mean they haven't been socialized, either.
I think these dogs will have a nice life. It will be interesting to see who bonds with them the most over time.
My child's sitter has two German Shepherds and a house full of kids (her own and the ones she babysits). They are both fantastic with the kids.
We've had three dogs in our family, and I have to admit that two were really impulse buys. The first was at a pet store in upstate New York and one of our sons fell in love with this little Pug (Ernest T. Pugsley) and so did the rest of us. A few years later we did do research on dogs and we went to a breeder in New Jersey to get a Yellow Lab (Jedediah), he was good fit with the Pug and the rest of us, but he was very energetic! My son was wonderful about caring for both dogs, walking and feeding them each day, and I loved having them around all the time. A few years after that we were on vacation in South Carolina and a woman who happened to breed Lhasa Apso (spelling?) dogs was going on vacation and needed to sell them off fast. We were just walking to the beach and she came out of her house and asked us if we wanted one. She had three left and they were all in a playpen in her house and I just couldn't resist, so we drove home with Gizmo (a name the breeder had already given him, and she very nicely gave us a book about the breed along with lots of other stuff), Gizmo was not a good fit with the other dogs though, and he was mean and nasty with everyone but me! So out of the three dogs, I only did my homework with Jed.
They've all passed years ago (Pugsley was ten when he passed, Jed was sixteen, and Gizmo was twelve) and now my grandson keeps asking for a puppy, but it is a lot of work and I'm not as young as I used to be. I'd have to think long and hard about it and do a lot of homework on which breed would be best, and I let my daughter know that I don't want her bringing a dog into this house without warning me!
From what I've read it doesn't look like the Gosselin's did their homework either. But live and learn. I'm sure it's going to be a lot more work than anticipated, but the good outweighs the bad, and once the relationship develops there's no turning back anyway, so you just cope with it all and you don't even notice the work of them anymore.
if i were them i'd name the dogs aunt jodi and beth. that would've started a sh$@*storm.
themrs said...
if i were them i'd name the dogs aunt jodi and beth. that would've started a sh$@*storm.
Now that would have been great! :-)
Thanks for the additional info, Mom.
Lizabeth, Samantha, Merryway, etc. You say it much better than I can.
Tex JJ said...I missed the episode, but will try to catch it at some point. Thanks for the great recaps! Thoughts about the anti-Gosselin sites: things were fine until Kate started looking better, dressing better, getting new things, etc. I noticed that when her life started getting "better", the claws came out.
Exactly, you will never convince that envy and jealousy are not a big component for many of the most rabid Gosselin detractors.
This excerpt was taken from the Human Society website. I advise anyone who believes the Gosselin Family or the breeder in question did no wrong to read the information on their website.
Right, because everyone, ESPECIALLY the "advocates," has followed those suggestions TO THE LETTER when they got their pets, right? Because to complain about the Gosselins would be hypocritcal, otherwise, woudln't it?
Go figure!
So, NO ONE complaining about the Gosselins on "the other sites" has ever bought a pet at a pet store at the mall, or from a "backyard breeder," or because they read something about puppies or kittens in the classified ads in their local paper? They never took a dog off a friend's or relative's hands for free because those people were giving them away? They THOROUGHLY researched every dog breed before purchasing, knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that this animal fit into their lifestyle? Congratulations! You're better than 95% of animal owners, then!
Actually, speaking as a seven year vet of a no kill shelter who has fostered 10 pups/dogs for adoption and has interviewed potential families for adoption, the Gosselins did MUCH MORE than most people when adding a puppy to the family. They went to a reputable breeder who knows the breed of dog. Kate called him and discussed the possibility before deciding. The breeder, in turn, got to know the Gosselins and decided whether to trust them with his animals and volunteered to take them back should it not work out. It wasn't a spur of the moment decision like "Oh look, puppies! Let's get one!" Kate took exacting notes on what she should get for the pups (especially considering that both she and Jon are novices). They picked the pups out before telling the children about it (Sorry, Mady, but your parents did the right thing). Kids shouldn't pick the animal. They don't pay attention to temperament, just cuteness.
The Gosselins are beginners. They are going to have to fly by the seats of their pants, because even though Kate bought a book on German Shepherds at the pet store and read articles on the Internet (ANOTHER POSITIVE, she actually DID RESEARCH), it's still a learning experience.
I've had many dogs. I've worked with many dogs. People seek out my advice when it comes to dogs. But, I am not perfect. My cat? Someone came into our office 12 years ago and said, "Hey, anyone want a cat?" STRIKE ONE in Perfect Pet Ownership. My current dog, Molly? Paid $200 bucks from a backyard breeder. STRIKE TWO in Perfect Pet Ownership. Even worse, we stopped when we saw a sign on the side of the road and took her home that night. Total spur of the moment. I wasn't even INTENDING on getting this kind of dog. I had always had Shepherds. Oh, wow. STRIKE THREE in Perfect Pet Ownership. By the way, she's 10 years old now. I think I learned along the way. Second dog, Micah, was an adopted dog from the shelter that I had started volunteering at, so I was properly vetted by them. WOW. I finally got it right! Eyeroll.
Oh, and BITE ME to whoever says otherwise about whether I'm a GOOD pet owner. I know I am. My pets are spoiled, happy, and live like Kings/Queens. They've never lived life on the end of a chain. They are house pets (no matter how freaking big they are). They've never been struck with an object or yanked by their collars or kicked or abused. I've seen dogs come into the shelter that would make you cry and want to KILL (just a term of expression for all you "advocates" out there) the human responsible. You would also be shocked at the amount of applicants we catch in bald faced lies and the amount of dogs that are ultimately returned. So, excuse me if I find all this whining and complaining about Jon and Kate to be a bunch of unmitigated crap. I've seen it all. It would break your heart.
These people are not even CLOSE to being considered irresponsible pet owners.
McB, thank you for your perspective on the breeder and puppy choice-- I appreciate how you mention that the way you get a puppy or kitten is not near as important as the life it has in your household. No, I do NOT support puppy mills but I do think that whether the cat was found out in your yard, or in a box on the street (makes me think of that Disney movie, "Oliver and Company"!), or the puppy is in a breeders care the ultimate goal is to give that pet a loving home.
Also I would LOVE to chat with you sometime about the puppy I am looking to get when I buy my house-- I have some ideas of a breed I would like to look for but am not sure its a good fit for me and my lifestyle. You have far more knowledge on this than I do so it would be great to hear your opinion! Thanks :).
Sure Liza Beth. I'm no expert, but I can tell you what I do know! Or I can ask another volunteer who might know the answer.
And yes, the important part is ultimately not where you got the animal, but that you do the right thing by it. I would never buy a pup from the pet store at the mall who use puppy mills for their stock, but yeah, I always stop in and marvel at the cuteness. Ultimately, I think it's a double edged sword. Those puppies in the window DO need good homes, like any other dog. It IS more desirable to seek out a shelter, or a breed rescue (if you prefer a purebred dog). But really, the backyard breeder and the responsible breeder that does this for a living, already have the pups. What happens to them if no one buys them? Dumped off at a shelter? Or worse....
So, my first stop would be local shelters. Or, search for a breed rescue on the Internet. But, I really don't look down my nose at someone who went to a breeder. Some of the volunteers I work with do, however. As long as you think about your decision, weigh the pros and cons, ESPECIALLY THE EXPENSE. People don't realize that ownership COSTS. I do look down my nose at people that don't get their animals vaccinated, or those who keep them outside with a frozen bowl of water and no attention. I strongly advocate spaying and neutering and hope Jon and Kate do this before Nala gets "her first period." The last thing they want is Nala gettin' it on with her brother. I am sure that the ex-cop stressed this, too. Responsible breeders are advocates for keeping the bloodlines pure. That means, NO BREEDING RELATIVES. My mom brought home a German Shepherd pup when I was in high school. Gretchen was beautiful, sweet and gentle, but we found out later that this breeder had a reputation for inbreeding its dogs. My mother got Gretchen spayed as soon as the vet told her that (not that we wanted to breed her, but accidents happen).
Research is key BEFORE you bring that adorable little face home. Especially since the Adorable Little Face eventually turns into Somewhat Cute Pup Who Pees Inside, Bad Doggy Who Poops Inside, REALLY Bad Dog Who Chews Furniture, Horny Dog Who Humps Everything and Sniffs the Crotches of Company, and Damned Dog Who Just Cost Me $400 at the Vet's Office.
Especially since the Adorable Little Face eventually turns into Somewhat Cute Pup Who Pees Inside, Bad Doggy Who Poops Inside, REALLY Bad Dog Who Chews Furniture, Horny Dog Who Humps Everything and Sniffs the Crotches of Company, and Damned Dog Who Just Cost Me $400 at the Vet's Office.
MCB- thanks for the laugh, I needed it! And soooo TRUE too!
MCB, thanks so much for your post. It occurs to me that the haters are holding the Gosselins to the same impossibly high standards as dog owners as the hold them to as parents. I guess it's not surprising. I am sure there are things they could have done better, but it does appear that they did some research. Once again, there are no gradations in the haters' world, and any dog owner (well, if they happen to be named Gosselin) who doesn't follow all of the recommended steps to perfection is another Michael Vick in their eyes.
Unless they are prepared to train two german shepherd puppies it was a big mistake. My Shepherd is 16 months old, very active, requires 2hours of exercise minimum per day, plus intellectual and obedience training. German Shepherds are intelligent and require a lot of maintenance training to be safe dogs for the family and the community. Unless JOn or Kate had shepherds before and know what they are in for, or they have an in-house private trainer, it was not a good idea for the dogs. AND THEY SHED 365 DAYS A YEAR! GOod luck Kate.
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