Rolling Oaks Puppy News

2009-06-25T20:54:00.002-05:00

OUR BLOG HAS MOVED

Thanks for finding the Rolling Oaks Puppy Blog. We are now blogging on our newly re-designed website, www.rollingoaks.com

We'll keep the stories on photos here on this blog page, but new posts be on the re-designed website.

2009-06-04T13:04:00.005-05:00

DELILAH'S PUPPIES TO THE NURSING HOME

Today we brought Delilah's puppies to the nursing home. It is an assisted living facility, and my father in law is living there. These photos capture the joy a puppy brings to an elderly person. Even though it is always a lot of work to bring the puppies to all these places, it is so rewarding to see the reaction people have towards a pup.

2009-06-04T12:59:00.004-05:00

ABBY AND THE PUPPIES

This is Abby, our daughter Kelly's sister-in-law. She loves to come out and hold puppies. You can see by the photos how much she loves the puppies. This is Delilah's litter. They will be going to their new homes tomorrow.

2009-06-04T12:56:00.002-05:00

AMY

We celebrated Amy's birthday on Friday with 16 friends from school. Each of Amy's friends have a special relationship with her, and accept her and love her. It is a dream come true for us. We all need friends. We all need to feel accepted and loved. It was so fun to watch the girls go from the pool to holding puppies, to the tramp, into the hot tub, back to the puppies.....we had a water balloon fight which was A LOT of screaming, especially when Russ brought out the garden hose and started spraying everyone...they got him back with a few buckets of water! All in all, it was a great celebration of life. A day doesn't go by that I don't thank God for giving Amy to me. She brings a whole new dimension to our family. It is not always easy, and battling leukemia was probly the hardest part of having a child with downs. Now that we have conquered that, life is grand. I am blessed to have her in my life.

2009-06-04T12:52:00.002-05:00

NEXT LITTER OF PUPPIES

We were expecting Ezra to have a litter of puppies this week, but to our dismay, she is not going to have any puppies. We thought she may be expecting a SMALL litter, but she is not. For those of you waiting for a puppy, Emmy is due June 15, and is looking VERY pregnant!! I will be contacting you with information regarding her puppies. Our next litter will be born in September and ready for their new homes early October.

2009-05-11T10:01:00.003-05:00

MOTHER'S DAY

I had a wonderful Mothers Day enjoying my family, and reading out loud to them, which is one of my favorite things to do...we are reading "The Shack" and I really like it! It changes your religious thinking and lets you see God in a different, more personal light. The puppies enjoyed sitting by the campfire as much as Delilah!

2009-05-03T16:01:00.002-05:00

TASHI

Hi Barb-
I just wanted to send you a couple new pictures of Tashi (born August 2006 Jewel and Captain). We really couldn't ask for a better dog and I'm still wanting another puppy to add to our little family, partially because she is so great! Tashi goes to doggy day care twice a week to wear off some of that endless energy plus to keep up with her socialization skills with other dogs. The people at the day care love her and all want to keep her. It's really nice to hear how much they really enjoy having her there and what a great dog she is.
Tashi has the biggest smile I've ever seen from a dog and I'm constantly hearing from others how beautiful and adorable she is when she smiles...I don't think most people have seen a dog smile like she does!
Thank you again for giving her such a great start to her life. Harry and I count our blessings every day we have her in our lives! She's a great dog bred by great people. Thanks again for breeding such a beautiful soul. I'm hoping I will be contacting you in the near furture to add to our family.

Warmest Regards,

Dar

2009-04-30T20:27:00.001-05:00

REMY & TESS

Barb,
I was looking through your puppy blog today and realized that I had not sent you any updates on Remy & Tess in a long time! The sisters are happy, healthy and my best companions. We take two walks a day together (rain, snow, shine) and they bring immeasurable joy. Thanks again for my golden girls!!

Janet

2009-04-30T20:24:00.001-05:00

WAITING FOR THE BUS

Looking at the blog it shows that you have been very busy with family as well as puppies. Congratulations!

I just wanted you to know that everything seems to be adjusting with Libby's diet, etc. The Solid Gold food has been great.

Only problem now is that the bus with the kids comes about thirty minutes later than she wants. She starts looking for the bus about thirty minutes out and is bouncing off the walls when it finally arrives. She loves her kids and they love her too.

Steve & Jen

2009-04-28T11:52:00.001-05:00

TUCKER AND LEXIE

Barb,

I had to send you a picture of my two beautiful dogs, they "turn heads" wherever we go. They have become best "buddies" and fill my life with lots love and happiness. Having two goldens is a dream come true and I would highly recommend it.

Tucker's parents were Banner and Ivy (12/17/06)

Lexie's parents were Captain and Ruby (7/12/08)

Congratulations on your two new grandaughers !!

Roxanne

2009-04-28T11:50:00.000-05:00

MURPHY

Hi Barb!
Murphy is now 6 months old. He is one of Captain and Maddie's puppies from last October. He is a very good dog and has become such a wonderful part of our family. He is very sweet. He is a great combination of energetic enough to keep up with our busy life with two young boys, but yet affectionate enough to get in my puppy cuddles. You did a great job picking him for us. Thank you. He loves riding in the car and helping me take the boys to and from school. He has been the subject of two show and tells and done very well. Everyone tells us he is a beautiful dog and they are right! Hope you enjoy the picture of our big boy!

Sincerely,

Jenny and Mike

2009-04-23T08:22:00.001-05:00

MOXIE

Hi Barb - First, congrats on being a Grandma x 2.

It's been a while since I sent you a picture of Moxie. The attached picture was taken Easter evening. As you can see, she makes herself "right at home". Her fur is getting long and I swear she is still growing...although she is still hanging around 75 - 77 lbs. She is taken for walks each morning and evening. It's amazing how excited she gets when we go. Enjoy!!!

(you can read more about Moxie here)

2009-04-21T21:37:00.001-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOJO!

Barb:

Today is Mojo's 2nd Birthday!!!! I can't believe he is 2 already! He is a Captain and Jasmine pup. I attached a picture of Mojo with his birthday cupcake. he is so funny!

Amy

2009-04-21T21:32:00.004-05:00

SUNDANCE

Hi Barb,

Congratulations on your new granddaughter! What wonderful news and such a beautiful photo. It sounds as if all is going so well with each of you. It is such a joy to read your blog. Your family is an inspiration.

Finally sending you a few photos of Sundance. Hope you enjoy them. He is doing great! He is so much fun and really gentle. We keep telling him that the pool will be open before he knows it...he is such a water baby, just like our three children!

Best,
Sarah

2009-04-20T12:30:00.002-05:00

NEXT LITTER OF PUPPIES

Ezra is next to have a litter, due June 2 and ready for their new homes around July 21. Captain is the father. We are accepting applications for this litter now.

2009-04-20T12:28:00.001-05:00

DELILAH'S PUPPIES!

Delilah gave birth to four females, two males on April 16. Both Mom and babies are doing well! These puppies are spoken for, but we are taking deposits for the next litter between Ezra/Captain. That litter will be ready for their new homes around July 21.

2009-04-09T09:53:00.004-05:00

PUPPIES TRAVELED TO ZIMMERMAN

The puppies traveled to Zimmerman on Wednesday where my son in law teaches. It was great for the puppies to go on a trip and the kids really enjoyed themselves.

2009-04-08T08:57:00.003-05:00

REMEMBERING MOM

Christie Evelyn & Elaina Evelyn and Kelly Marie & Avery Evelyn. All four girls are named after my mom, Evelyn Marie Kalenberg Finken, who passed away ten years ago. Mom was a wonderful woman who never stopped encouraging others. She always had a smile and encouraging word for you. She never came over empty handed! Always a jar of jam or even a roll of paper towels. She called it her "love gifts" She left us with a legancy of love, and it is my dream for that legacy to live on in my children and for generations to come. Love is so powerful. It can turn the worst circumstances around. It never fails!! Love endures forever. The love my mom shared with all of us lives on, and now, in her two adorable great grand daughters. When there are such important events in my life, like David & Missy getting married or Avery and Elaina being born, I miss mom. I wish I could share these wonderful moments with her. She would be so proud and happy. But I try really hard to live on the way she would want me to....enjoying my life and my wonderful family, appreciating all that I have. I want to be a giving person like Mom was. Even though she lived through hard times and tragedy, she was a very happy person. I think that is one of the secrets to happiness....giving. As I feel myself being spread very thin in being a wife, mother, grand-mother, care giver and puppy raiser....I find my happiest times are when I am giving. As Easter Sunday approaches, I think of God our Father, and how he gave his son Jesus Christ, to save us. That is true giving!! Love unconditional.

2009-04-08T07:51:00.000-05:00

VISIT TO AMY'S SCHOOL

The puppies went to Amy's school on Tuesday!

2009-04-07T13:14:00.004-05:00

TEACHING DIANA HOW TO FETCH

Hi, Barb and all!

Yesterday, I was playing fetch with Berthe (she's obsessed with fetching all balls), and the ball rolled under the backyard gate. I let her out. She went to get it. She came back. I closed the gate.

We played for a long time. Then, I went to the porch to read.

A little later I saw her standing at the gate, she had decided to roll her balls under the gate and wait for me to open it up, let her retrieve, and let her back in. (I did as I was obviously instructed.)

Then, a little later, I watched her as she got her ball, took it to the gate, placed it gently on the ground under the gate, steadied it so it wouldn't roll, then pushed it through with her nose.

Then she looked at me.

I got up, opened the gate, let her get it, closed the gate.

I have now learned how to fetch.

Diana

p.s. In her picture here she looks adoring, but believe me, I'm the one who is adoring her!

2009-04-06T15:41:00.002-05:00

VISITING PRO WORKS

The puppies went to Pro Works today. It is a facility for handicapped adults. It is one of my favorite places to bring the puppies. The people are always so excited when we come in. All the puppies followed me right in the door!

2009-04-03T21:08:00.001-05:00

VISIT TO THE VET

Puppies to the vet today The puppies went for their first vet check and everyone is healthy!! They got their first set of shots today and my vet strongly suggests only giving one shot per visit. Puppies and dogs who get more than one vaccination at a time can have a bad reaction!

2009-04-03T21:04:00.001-05:00

SAMUEL

Samuel was here yesterday and couldn't get enough of the puppies, or I should say they couldn't get enough of him!

2009-04-01T10:28:00.001-05:00

ANOTHER NEW GRANDDAUGHTER!

We are so happy to announce the birth of our second grand daughter, Elaina Evelyn! She was born March 22 and weighed 6.14 oz! Our oldest daughter Christie, her husband Sean and their little boy Samuel are very happy to have a healthy little girl! I meant to post this earlier, but it has been very busy here at RollingOaks with a litter of puppies, these two new babies, the wedding, and boarding lots of dogs over spring break! It snowed here today to turn Minnesota back to winter just a little longer!

2009-03-24T19:46:00.000-05:00

BAXTER

Hi Barb,

I visit your site often and see the love of Goldens in each picture and testimonials from all who have your Goldens. Baxter was from Brandy's and Banners 13 puppies that needed to be bottle fed. He was born in Jan 2002 and is the love of my life. He is such a sweet boy and we all love him to death. I married again after 24 years and Baxter has adopted John as his dad. It must be the male bonding thing. He is also the brother to Golden rescue from RAGOM Miss Holly Dolly who was a mama for 8 years before we adopted her. She is a little petite thing that thinks Baxter hung the moon. He is such a good boy and is always so polite with her. I want to thank you and your family for providing Goldens that are bred in very humane conditions and loved from the day they are born. I appreciate the process you go through to ensure all have a good home. You are truly angels on earth and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Hugs and kisses for all your Goldens and you!

Thanks,
Bonnie

2009-03-22T00:18:00.003-05:00

GRANDMA'S HELPER While Isaac's mom is in the hospital with his new baby sister Avery,
he is here helping Grandma. Here he is cleaning the kennel.

2009-03-22T00:11:00.002-05:00

NEXT LITTER OF PUPPIES

This is Delilah, and she is going to have our next litter of puppies. She will have a litter born April 15 that will be ready the first week in June. Captain is the father.

2009-03-19T21:05:00.002-05:00

TIA

Hi Barb. Happy St. Pat's! I was just downloading photos and came across this one of Tia that Joel took. He takes her up to Riverwood where he works. It's 60 acres on the Mississippi. She loves it and runs all over, but always stays near - she's a really good girl.

Hope all is well.

Take care,

Tanja

2009-03-18T20:52:00.002-05:00

IT'S A GIRL!!!

Our daughter Kelly gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Avery Evelyn this morning at 3:12! She weighs 6 lbs.14oz. We are so happy to have one baby here! Christie was actually due LAST Saturday, so it won't be long and we will have another addition to the family!! Lots of excitement here! Grandma couldn't be happier!!

2009-03-18T20:48:00.002-05:00

CROSBY

Hi Barb,

Crosby is still the center of our world. He is maturing into such a sensitive, kind and wonderful big boy. His puppy exuberance is waning a little bit but his joyful social personality continues to grow. He’s about 95 lbs now and I could not be happier that we’ve waited to neuter him as his physique has changed so dramatically in just the past three months. He has the look of a quintessential classic Golden with his broad chest and proud posture, and he continues to draw stares and stop folks in their tracks! He is very protective of us but behind his manly voice he’s a total lover of everyone. I wanted to send you an updated picture and the boys voted for the one attached. I wonder how many Rolling Oaks Goldens are hockey dogs?! Crosby is a pro at “shagging pucks” and interrupting the boys’ passes. When he is “benched” for interference, he pouts admirably at the back door until the boys cave in and let him back out on the rink. He is never one to miss out on the action!

I hope this finds you and all of your wonderful family doing well. Much love from Massachusetts!

Kristin

(Crosby is from Ruby and Captain)

2009-03-16T20:46:00.006-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BERTHE!

Dear Barb and Russ, Well, the fuzzy kid is one year old today. Time to finish up puppy food and head for the big dog stuff.

Congratulate Emmy and Captain. They did a fine job of making this pooch. Here she is--Berthe--in a couple of pix. That, of course, is Luca in the background in the second photo.

Here in Virginia, Chuck is starting our garden. I know it has been cold and snowy up north, and we've had a bit of cold and a touch of snow, but it feels like spring right now, and both pooches are healthy and happy and still just a delight to be with.

Looking at the picture on your blog of Oliver (who must be Berthe's brother), I realize how much she is a lovely combination of Captain and Emmy. She is closer to Captain's coloring but small like Emmy.

Chuck calls her "little one," and she is at least a head shorter than Luca who (I think) takes after his father, Banner.

I don't know if you'll remember, but it was really hard for me to talk Chuck into a second dog. Now, as with Luca, he is the doting male figure in Berthe's life. She insists on sleeping on his side of the bed (on the floor, of course, on her own bed). And, even when he is out of town at The Open Door Community, she won't shift. If I move her bed to my bedside, she paces until I move it back.

He calls her funny little names, defends her if I think she needs scolding, and absent-mindedly strokes her beautiful and soft fur as he reads or watches television.

When we all walk together, she still wants to be even with Chuck's leg though I have her on the leash and he has Luca. She looks up at him like he's the best thing going and when I say, "Go to Chuck!" she runs directly to wherever he is.

The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that Chuck fights getting dogs only because he knows how fully he falls in love with them--and them with him. Truly, it's a beautiful thing to watch him with both Luca and Berthe

Diana and Chuck

2009-03-16T20:32:00.003-05:00

PRONG COLLAR UPDATE

This is an update to an earlier post. You can purchase the prong collar that we recommend here, and you can get additional links here. We use the 2.55 mm size. We highly recommend these products because they lightly pinch the dogs skin when training, rather than using a regular choke collar which can severely damage a dogs throat.

I have also updated the link in the right column.

2009-03-13T07:22:00.001-05:00

JASMINE'S TWO WEEK OLD PUPPIES

Isaac came over today to help Grandma with the puppies. Jasmines
litter is doing great. Eyes are just peeking open!

2009-03-13T07:19:00.004-05:00

MORE ABOUT THE WEDDING

I feel like I have just woken up from a fairy tale dream! When I saw David getting ready on Saturday, I sobbed tears of joy at the man he has become, and the importance of this day. Russ and I could not stop smiling as we watched our new daughter glow with love for our son! Missy is perfect for David. She completes him. When we walked into church I turned in the pew to see all of our children, beaming with excitement....and I felt like the luckiest person on earth. We did not really know Missy very well while she dated David. We had learned the hard way not to fall in love with a person our children are dating, because when they break up it is heart wrenching! So we kept a guard on our heart until they were engaged! Now we see the wonderful woman she is, and we have fallen head over heels in love! We look forward to many happy years together.

2009-03-09T20:17:00.001-05:00

DAVID AND MISSY

We are so happy and blessed to have a new daughter! Our son David married Missy this week-end! It couldn't have been more perfect. There is something so powerful about the wedding vows, and promising God and each other to love unconditionally. We had a wonderful time celebrating their new life together!

2009-03-05T06:52:00.003-06:00

CLIFFORD

Barb,
Attached are a few of many pictures of absolute joy for Jandro. Thank you for such a great gift!

Love,
Sue

2009-03-05T06:49:00.004-06:00

GINGER

Hi Barb,

I have been thinking of sending you an update on Ginger (purple girl from Jewel’s litter) for so long…Ginger is such a good puppy – she goes everywhere she can with us (absolutely LOVES car rides and dropping the kids off at school/picking them up and seeing all the kids and teachers!). Everyone can’t believe how mellow she is, and what a great disposition she has! We routinely have a group of 6-7 year old boys hanging out at our house (often times running, laughing, and yelling) and she is very patient and good with them! You were right when you said it would be hard for us to do the crate training since we work from home (and it was, we just wanted to be with her all the time)…but, we have figured it out and have a good routine going and potty training is going really well (no accidents in her crate at all! – a few in the house that were our fault…). The other day she dragged her leash over to my daughter because she wanted to go outside and play/go for a walk….she also had to go potty – it was so cute!

She just completed puppy kindergarten and is picking up everything very quickly….She is especially good at sit, down and leave it, but we’re still working on not chewing on the bushes and mulch in the backyard! She’s also recently figured out that there’s food on the table (or counters) and so we have plenty of opportunity to practice “off”. She is starting basic obedience in just a couple of weeks. She is just so sweet and we’ve also learned she is very sensitive and empathetic; when one of the kids is sad or hurt she feels so bad for them and won’t leave their side until she thinks they feel better. She loves her walks and playing outside in the snow and also playing with her best friend (the next door chocolate lab puppy). She is a beautiful golden and we can’t imagine our family without her! I’ve attached a picture of her (she just went to the vet yesterday and weighed in at 34 pounds….) – isn’t she beautiful!!

Thank you!

Cara, Pat, Elaina and Connor

2009-03-05T06:46:00.001-06:00

SYDNEY'S FIRST BIRTHDAY

Sydney (from Maddie's February 2008 litter) just turned 1!

2009-02-25T14:35:00.001-06:00

JASMINE JUST HAD HER PUPPIES!

Jasmine gave birth to 5 males, 4 females on Saturday! Both mom and babies are doing well. There is a male puppy available in this litter. They will be ready to go to their new homes April 11. They are Easter puppies!

2009-02-24T21:27:00.007-06:00

RHEA

I like the messages on the blog to keep all of you up to date on the happenings at Rolling Oaks, but also to encourage you in your everyday life. Following is a message that was so inspiring to me, I wanted to share it with all of you. It is another reminder of how grand this life is, through the valley and on the mountain tops! Life is not easy for anyone. When we placed Rhea into Carol’s arms the day they picked her up, Russ said he believed she would be a “Rhea of hope”. Hope is what we all need to cling to. I am so very happy that one of our puppies can bring joy and hope into a home. That is what this life is all about. We all know how unpredictable life is, and how important it is to live for “The Day” when we stand before our King.

Dear Barb,
Yesterday we celebrated Rhea’s first birthday (from Emmy and Captain’s litter, purple collar), what a wonderful gift she has been to us. Not one of us can image our home without her.

2008 was a tough year for our family. Matt lost his life to the same cancer that took his arm two and a half years ago. We miss him dearly but we feel blessed by the 20 wonderful years that God entrusted him to us. Our “Rhea Sunshine” came to us because Mike told us, “Cancer patients heal faster with the loving companionship of a dog.” Rhea was laying on the bed right next to Matt when he passed away. I know she continues to help the rest of us heal.

Rhea loves lacrosse balls and sticks. She truly lives up to the retriever part of her name. However, we are still working on the “Drop it” command as she’s not very good about sharing her ball once she brings it back to us.

The attached picture was taken when Rhea was 11 months old. She loves the snow almost as much as the lacrosse balls, but the two things together are a fabulous treat. Thanks for the wonderful puppy, she is a Ray of Sunshine in our lives.

Carol, Jeff, Nicole and Mike

2009-02-16T19:31:00.003-06:00

OLIVER DUNCAN ABOUT TO TURN ONE

Hi Barb,
Our beloved Oliver is about to turn one! He is the absolutely most awesome dog in the WORLD! This has been an amazing 10 months for our family, and we feel so blessed that we were led to you and Oliver last April. He looks exactly like his father, Captain, but a few pound heavier. He is a spirited, playful puppy half the time, and an obedient and lovely soul the other half. He was raised a lap dog, and as intelligent as he is, hasn't figured out that he is LARGE! He's healthy, strong, intensely friendly, curious, loyal, gorgeous, lovingly playful, and always listens and obeys me -- which I love. We've referred several people to you, and often find out that their goldens are from Rolling Oaks! You have a phenomenal reputation here in the Cities.
Sincerely and affectionately,
Lori

note: Oliver is from Emmy and Captain

2009-02-16T19:06:00.011-06:00

RECOMMENDATIONS

I am writing to let you know of a couple of products that we have used, and highly recommend. I have also added them to the column on the right side of this page. We have read and recommended the book 'The Art of Raising a Puppy" by the Monks of New Skete for years (available at Amazon.com). It is THE BOOK that we recommend to our clients for guidance in raising a puppy.

"The monks of New Skete in Cambridge, New York, dog trainers and breeders of German shepherds, here expand on their classic How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend . The excellent instruction begins with an in-depth examination of the puppies of one litter from birth through their eventual placements with new owners-- following their social and physical development, their needs, and clues to their emerging personalities. Proposing that the best way to forge a healthy dog-to-owner bond is to prevent problems before they occur, the authors soundly emphasize that a puppy begins its training "the day it arrives home." They teach readers how to choose an appropriate breed and a promising puppy, and how to assume the position of "pack" leader from the start. Sensitive and unimpeachably humane, this handbook places equal stress on the time-consuming responsibilities of dog ownership and on its ultimate rewards."
- Publishers Weekly

The other product I wanted to tell you about is the Sprenger Training Collar (I'll post a link here later). I recommend the nap prong, size 2.55 mm. You also need to purchase the extra links. We have found this to be most efficient and safest collar to use while training your dog. The small prongs will pinch the skin, rather than severely choke a dog as a "choker collar" does, which may cause damage to a dogs throat.

2009-02-12T08:32:00.003-06:00

GRANDPA JOHN AND OUR BELOVED HEIDI

February has been an unusual month for me. As I have posted in the past, Russ's step dad has been living with us for about 8 months, after suffering from a few strokes. There have been many medical apts. But he is now stable, and on Monday moved into a wonderful complex in Litchfield for the elderly. John's apt. is for independent living, and he can go to a dining room for all of his meals. This is a very big adjustment for an 80 year old who has milked cows his entire life! My heart goes out to him as he tries to process all the changes in life. It has been difficult for him to live here, with the phone ringing and process of a family business and all the activities a family our size brings. This photo was taken last spring, with our oldest dog Heidi, who just passed away. There have been a lot of emotions here!! I have put so much energy and time into Grandpa that my responses to some of you may have been delayed. I am sorry. But my first and highest calling is to my family. I hope that you can be patient with me and know that I value each and every one of you as a client, but can not always respond as quickly as I would like to.

2009-02-11T18:57:00.007-06:00

STELLA

Dear Barb -

Hope all is well with you and your family! Our little gal Stella (pink from Maddie) has been a pure delight and an occasional challenge - which is par for the course with a puppy. She is so smart and has mastered potty training by ringing a jingle bell at the front door and whimpering a bit to go out. She sits patiently as we quickly put on our frozen north gear and is great about getting to business outside. The girls are loving her so much and she is a hit with all the neighbors and friends of ours who just gush over her. She is so patient and has a perfect temperament with our girls. She was such a great pick for us! Her favorite form of exercise these days is chasing the kids (and us) down the sledding hill in our back yard.

She is growing so fast and is up to 22 pounds as of last week. We are really starting to notice the features of her parents in her face as she matures - she is such a beautiful dog. She did end up having coccidia which was quickly remedied and she is quite the little chewer, which has taken us to new levels of "minimalism" in our house to make it puppy safe. Unfortunately, three weeks ago she ate a large squishy child's toy and it was determined it would not pass safely, so she had to have surgery to have it removed. We were very worried, but she did great and is back to her energetic and sweet self with no complications.

Multiple vet trips aside, we are so thrilled to have her in our family. She starts formal training later this month, but we have already been working with her on sitting, getting down and not jumping. She mastered laying down the other night after minimal time and we have become devoted fans of the practical style and common sense approach of the New Skete monks.

Thank you again for all the work you did to provide us with such a healthy and well prepared dog for family life. She is a true joy!!

Jeanne and Mark

note: Stella is from Maddie and Captain

2009-02-11T08:20:00.003-06:00

BUDDY

Hi Barb,

Glad to hear from you.

Buddy is doing real well and a joy to have around. He goes everywhere with us and is with us almost 100% of the time. He’s my shadow. I have to take him back this week to the dr for his next shots, but when he went for his last set, he went from 11 lbs when we got him to 22 lbs. He’s so tall already. He is the brightest student in Puppy Preschool (but of course I’m biased), but the trainer/instructor is quite impressed with him too. He goes to the office with me or he’s in the office with Joel.

Here are some pictures that I took yesterday. Enjoy!

Bev

note: Buddy is from Maddie and Captain

2009-02-02T20:31:00.004-06:00

NEWS FROM MAJA

Dear, Barb and Family,

Maja (Maddie and Captain’s pup) is a sweet, smart, social puppy wrapped in an adorable little package. She loves people and other dogs. She can’t get enough of playing in the Snow!

She will be 14 weeks on Wednesday and is learning all about sit, stay, down and come. She is a very good student. Your training in the first 7 weeks has been so appreciated. She has been an excellent sleeper at night with no accidents in her kennel. We are enjoying walks to the park every day and had a great time at our cabin over the holidays. I can’t wait until she can go swimming in the lake.

We have received oodles of compliments and many visitors. A couple weeks ago I met a new neighbor at the park with her 3 year old golden (not from Rolling Oaks). Dave met the same neighbor a week after, and she told Dave her mother put in an application for a Rolling Oaks puppy, after seeing our Maja she told her mother about you.

I will attach a picture for you to see how big our little girl has gotten. A couple days ago she weighed 25 pounds. She has impressed everyone with her big paw print and how quickly she has grown. Not sure what this means?! Will our little girl become a big girl, or this an average weight at 13.5 weeks?

Thank you for breeding such a beautiful puppy! We love our little Maja. Our oldest college son calls to talk to her over the phone and she has visited St. Olaf to see our other son. She has many friends both people and dogs. She is quite the Maja!

Warm wishes,

Dave and Laurel

2009-01-29T20:14:00.005-06:00

BAILEY STARS ON "SHOWCASE MINNESOTA"

Bailey, a 6-month old Rolling Oaks Golden, was on the TV Show Showcase Minnesota (click HERE to watch the video) in a segment about training. If you have any questions about puppy or dog training, please let me know. We offer a 2-week training program at Rolling Oaks. More information about our training program in this post.

2009-01-29T16:04:00.006-06:00

LOLA

Hi Barb,

I hope you had a great holiday season and a happy new year. I wanted to check in and let you know that Lola is doing great. She has her spay appointment on Wednesday - we're excited to get that out of the way. Other than that, she is all up to date with vaccines and check ups. She is a happy, loving, wonderful dog and we cannot imagine life without her. Attached are a few recent pictures of Lola - mostly from last Saturday on Cedar Lake in Minneapolis. The older Golden is her best friend Monty who is 3 years old.

We hope you are doing well. Happy 2009!

Sarah & Jase

(Lola is from Jasmine and Captain)

2009-01-27T10:08:00.001-06:00

BAILEY'S TV DEBUT!

A six month old Rollingoaks Golden “Bailey” will be a guest with Katherine Newman on KARE 11’s Showcase Minnesota this Thursday, January 29 at 10:00 a.m. Bailey is a Jasmine/Captain puppy!

http://www.showcaseminnesota.com/

2009-01-26T21:13:00.005-06:00

TIME FLIES... The other day I came across these photos from our past
Christmas cards. It doesn't seem all that long ago...

2009-01-26T05:56:00.003-06:00

SADIE

Hi Barb,

I can't believe that it has been over three months since I last sent you some photos of Sadie (from Captain and Jasmine's July 2008 litter)! As you can see, at 5 months she is still beautiful and is growing daily. She was just spayed last week and we are all eagerly awaiting the vet releasing her to "full activity"! She did very well after the surgery--she didn't even need to wear the dreaded "cone" after the first night--- but she thinks she has been ready to be at "full activity" for several days now and really wants to resume her daily trips to the off-leash dog park!

She was a big hit at our families' Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations---she accepted the adulation of the crowds with graciousness and relative calm, assuring that she will be welcome at future gatherings! She did, however, learn the potential rewards of "counter-surfing", so we are working at re-educating her in that regard!

She continues to be a wonderful dog---smart, playful and loving--and we thank you again for choosing her for us.

Wishing you and your family and happy and healthy New Year,

Julie, Ron and Caitlin (and Sadie!)

2009-01-21T20:55:00.003-06:00

LENA

Hello again, Barb,

Hope you and yours had a wonderful holiday. Lena sure added excitement to ours and we all had fun with her. I can't believe how fast she's growing. My son got a great action shot of her. Just wanted to share that she's doing great and most of us are enjoying her. The terrier and the cat are still not sure what to think! Chuck had a little training as to who the alpha dog is at our house last week and it's us. It worked great.

Thanks for all you did for Lena. She's such a joy.

Teresa

2009-01-18T20:05:00.002-06:00

MOJO AND HIS FRISBEE

Barb: Just had to share this with you! This is Mojo's new frisbee that he got from Christmas. Instead of fetching it, he likes to flip it over his nose! I think it's really cute, but I guess I just think that way because I'm his mom!

Amy

2009-01-18T19:32:00.005-06:00

JACK

Hi Barb,

I wanted to send you a few pics of Jack, in a month it will be the 2 year anniversary when I brought Jack home, my how time flies. I couldn't have asked for a better dog. His two favorite games are retrieve the ball & tug of war with his rope. I live a few miles from a county park with a big wooded area all are walks down there are off leash in that park. He is good a staying close and coming when called. The is a paved path walking distance from my house when we go for walks, there are a couple of regulars we run into that look forward to seeing Jack. He has gown into a handsome well behaved boy.

Happy New Year

John & Jack

2009-01-15T16:22:00.005-06:00

MOJO

Barb: Hi! Merry Christmas! We got your card...everyone looks so cute.

Just wanted you to know that Mojo continues to be the biggest blessing in our life. He is so loving and sweet. No matter what kind of day we have, Mojo is always there for us!

I attached a couple of photos. For some odd reason, he just loves to lay out in the snow!

Take care.

Mike and Amy

(Mojo is from Captain and Jasmine)

2009-01-14T08:54:00.003-06:00

BUCK

Hi Barb,
I thought I would send you a link to our online photo album, lots of photos of Buck. We don't usually get a lot of snow in Santa Fe, but we have had about 12 inches in Dec. Buck loves it! I just wonder where that little ball of fur went - he has grown up so fast!

Happy New Year, Jim & Sheryl

Note: Buck is from Captain and Ruby

2009-01-12T15:16:00.002-06:00

SIMBA & MUFASA
This is Simba, a puppy from Zena and Banner.

This is Mufasa playing in the snow, another puppy from Zena and Banner.

2009-01-11T08:02:00.003-06:00

MOOSE

Hello Barb and Family! We hope your Holiday season is wonderful! Moose has been doing great with his training and listening since he's been with you guys. It was also such a great peace of mind to know he was with such great people while we were on vacation! Here are a few pictures of him with the first snow! He loves SNOW! He can't get enough of being outside!
Thanks,
Erin and Mike

2009-01-11T07:56:00.003-06:00

LUCA & BERTHA

This is Luca (Banner/Copper 2001) and Bertha, (Emmy/Captain 2008) enjoying life in Georgia!

2009-01-08T12:38:00.003-06:00

BAILEY

Dear Barb: Here is a picture of our sweet Bailey helping me with laundry. She is a delight and gets compliments on her looks and temperament wherever we go. Thank you!

Alison

2009-01-07T10:50:00.002-06:00

YESTERDAY

Yesterday I was on my way to an appointment for Grandpa John. He has been living with us after suffering a stroke, but went to his sister's over the holiday. I was going 55 when and older man pulled out in front of me. I tried to pass him and lost control, and ended up rolling the van. My purse had strewn all around the van, and I frantically put everything back into it while saying to myself out loud, "your okay, your okay...your fine...your okay!" I can't believe how fast it all happened, how I was on my way to get John one minute, and the next flying through the field! I can't tell you how blessed I feel to walk away without even a scratch. I felt such a presence in the van. As soon as I lost control I cried out to God for help, and as I rolled, I felt like a pillow of protection around me! I didn't even get a bruise from the seat belt. There was glass everywhere, and I did have my eyes checked because the inside of my sun glasses were full of tiny sheared pieces. I can only say "thank you Lord" for more time on earth! I feel like I have so much living left to do, and so much to give to the King! I laid in bed last night thinking of my family, and how very much I love them. Today I am sending each one a letter to tell them how much they mean to me. Life is so fragile. Take a minute today and reflect on all you have. All the love you receive, not only from your family and friends, but from your sweet golden. Life is good. It is so, so good! I AM ALIVE! YIPPY!!!!

2009-01-06T21:27:00.006-06:00

JACK

Hi Barb,

Happy New Year,

John & Jack

note: Jack is from Captain and Maddie

2009-01-05T12:49:00.004-06:00

LIBBY

Hi Barb
Just thought I would drop you a note with another pix from this morning.
Libby seems to be adjusting fine. She is making it through the night with no problems without any crate issues for a week now.
Every morning everyone gets their Libby time as she really is spunky when we are getting going for the day. Again, she has been great and perfect for us.
Also, Charlie and she are starting to get along really well. A lot of naps are taken together after some solid play time. He still needs his "alone time" and lets her know but is really starting to become accepting of the addition.

Thanks again!!
Steve, Jen, Joshua, Sam, Elise and Eva

note: Libby is from Captain and Jewel

2009-01-05T12:41:00.006-06:00

REAGAN

This is Reagan, a puppy from Jasmine and Captain's litter in 2008.

2009-01-05T12:37:00.004-06:00

NAIYA

Hi Barb,
I hope all is well and you had a VERY Merry Christmas and Happy New Year with your family! I promised to send you a picture of Naiya with her Christmas gear on and of course she found which present was for her under the tree-so it made for quite a cute photo.
She LOVES the snow and I've attached a pic. of her in her winter coat- I can't help it-I love to dress her up.....she's my baby.
Every day is a new-happy-waggy tail adventure with Naiya and I can't imagine life without her.....she's our little sunshine girl!
We loved the holiday card you sent out and it's on our fridge!

hugs,
jenn

2008-12-30T14:23:00.002-06:00

CHARLIE AND HIS NEW SISTER LIBBY

This is Charlie with his new baby sister Libby (Jewel/Captain).
He has already learned to share his bed!

2008-12-25T13:20:00.010-06:00

PLACING PUPPIES IN THEIR NEW HOMES

The past two litters were here at a busy time in my life. My father in law is living with us, and around the holidays there is baking, shopping, parties, family time. But I have to say that when I get photos like these, showing the transition from our home to yours, it makes it all worth while. We spend a tremendous amount of time with our litters, and knowing what we do makes a difference in how a puppy adjusts, is very rewarding. We will be posting some of the photos and comments from our clients. Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Hi Barb,

Just wanted to send you a quick email to let you know that Maggie is doing terrific. She has settled right in and is having a ball. She is sleeping through the night and is already doing great with her sit and stay before each meal. I've attached a few recent photographs of Maggie that you might enjoy.

Best wishes for the holidays,

Tom, Julie and Family

2008-12-25T13:05:00.004-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Merry Christmas to you and yours from all the
staff at Rolling Oaks Goldens!

2008-12-21T18:41:00.007-06:00

SANTA'S HELPERS

These puppies are more than happy to help Santa rip open gifts, chew ornaments or bring down the Christmas tree!!! Rolling Oaks Goldens is wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!!

2008-12-21T18:36:00.002-06:00

HANK

Barb,

I'm so sorry that I haven't been diligent in updating you on Hank. He is growing like a weed (about three pounds a week), and he definitely has a healthy appetite. Everywhere we go people comment about how handsome he is, and I've actually run into three families that also have Rolling Oaks Goldens. We seem to find each other everywhere, and each family has wonderful things to say about their dog. Hank is definitely a sweetheart, but he is quite a troublemaker--pretty much exactly what I asked you for. I'll be happy when his sharp little puppy teeth are gone, though. We are on our third week of formal puppy training, and he is a star pupil. I can't thank you enough for allowing me to adopt this wonderful dog!

Thank you very much!

Cameron

2008-12-10T09:53:00.003-06:00

MAC

Hi Barb just thought I would send you a pic of Mac this was taken about a month ago he is gonna be one big boy. Overall everything is great his training is coming along well... He now rings a bell to go outside & do his business he is really a good boy!

Kelly

2008-12-10T09:50:00.003-06:00

CHESTER AND CHARLIE

This is Chester and Charlie, two Rolling Oaks goldens.

Charlie is waiting for Thanksgiving dinner!

2008-12-07T15:57:00.003-06:00

CHRISTMAS PUPPY

We still have a puppy that is available before Christmas. Let us know if you're interested!

2008-12-07T15:47:00.006-06:00

PUPPY VISITING

We took Jewel's litter to Pro Works, a place of employment for special needs adults. It is one of my favorite places to bring the puppies. All the people are happy. They are not worried about how much money they have invested, who is the President or what the weather is. They are trusting. Life is simple and easy. Holding a puppy brings screams of delight! No emotion is held back. You know when they are happy, and when they are not! I believe we should all learn something from these very special people. That love is all that matters. Laugh, love and be carefree. Let the simple things in life bring you pleasure, like the cuddles of a puppy!

We took Jewel's litter to Lincoln Apts., a complex for the elderly.

2008-12-07T15:46:00.002-06:00

RUSS

It is an exhausting few weeks with two litters. Here is Russ after testing puppies!

2008-11-30T20:05:00.002-06:00

HILDEGARD

Hi Barb-

Hilde is doing splendidly. We have started her second obedience class. She is such a sweet girl. She is pretty mellow for a puppy. She is getting the hang of some commands. She is getting more and more loving everyday! She is such a good girl and we are enjoying every minute with her! I have attached a picture of her. We think she looks so beautiful in it.

take care!

Amy and Ray

2008-11-30T20:03:00.004-06:00

VISITING THE NURSING HOME

This is a busy week taking Maddie's litter out and about every day. We went to the nursing home on Saturday and this lady loved the puppies.

2008-11-30T14:54:00.001-06:00

MADDIE'S LITTER GOES TO THE VET

Maddie's puppies went to the vet for their first check up on Wednesday. Amy came along and got to take a peak at this puppy's ears!

2008-11-26T21:39:00.001-06:00

BELLE

Hello Barb,
I just wanted to share with you these pictures of Belle (from Ivy & Banner's litter born 12/17/06) with our baby Natalie (7 months old). It is unbelievable how sweet and gentle she is with Natalie.We are trying to teach Natalie how to "pet the puppy gently" even though Belle doesn't ever mind when Natalie grabs a fist full of fur and starts pulling with all of her might! The poor dog! She is so tolerant however and actually seems to love the attention from the baby and normally responds with a kiss :) Her temperament is so great!

Hope you have a wonderful start to the holiday season. Thank you for the great dog!!!

Sincerely,

Jamie, Chad, Natalie, and of course Belle!

2008-11-21T07:36:00.001-06:00

OLIVIA MEETS SANTA

Olivia went to meet Santa Claus at the Eden Prairie Mall.

2008-11-21T07:33:00.004-06:00

TORI

Hi, Barb and Russ and family~

I thought I'd update you on Tori (pink collar from Emmy and Captain's Feb. litter.) She's almost 9 months old now, and so much fun!

The training you did with her this summer has been so helpful. We're working on training her not to jump up on people right now. She loves everyone so much that she just can't seem to contain her joy! I'm glad you warned us that there might be times she could be rebellious- she does have occasional "adolescent moments" where reason and impulse control go out the window. If only some of your techniques could be used on adolescent children, but I'm afraid the prong collar wouldn't go over well with the local authorities... J

Today she is overjoyed with the snow! There's nothing like seeing a dog taken up with the joy of new discovery. She makes us laugh many times a day. It's no wonder having a dog is good for your health!

I'm attaching a few pictures of Tori doing her favorite things- exploring the woods and playing in the snow. Thanks again for this wonderful addition to our family!

Blessings,

Susan

2008-11-21T07:22:00.003-06:00

DAKOTA

Hi Barb!

I hope all is well with you and your family and I am sure you are really busy with your two new litters of puppies!

I thought I would send you a few new pictures of Dakota (Ivy's April litter) since I haven't sent you any in awhile.

She is now 6 months old and has grown a ton! She is really starting to get the feathering on her tail and is starting to really look like a Golden. She continues to be a very easy puppy, I haven't had any problems with her. I make sure to keep her socialized with other dogs and people and keep bringing her to new environments.

I have an appointment to get her spayed on Nov. 11 and I hope everything will go well, which I am sure it will.

Erin and Dakota

2008-11-18T09:50:00.002-06:00

PUPPIES AVAILABLE

We currently have some puppies from Maddie's litter will be available to go to their new homes on December 3rd, and puppies from Jewel's litter will be available on December 10th.

You can find more information and submit a puppy application on our website.

2008-11-18T09:49:00.000-06:00

JEWEL'S PUPPIES TAKING A NAP!

2008-11-17T12:30:00.003-06:00

STORY TIME WITH MADDIE'S LITTER

2008-11-17T12:26:00.002-06:00

CRUZ

I just wanted to give you an update on Cruz. He's doing wonderfully. He just turned a year old the first week of Oct. I have an appt schedule to get him neutered now that he's a year. Growing up he was somewhat of a fatty but he's thinned out to be a healthy 84 lbs. He's a big guy but really fast. He's also quite energetic. Every time I look at him he brings his front paws and self to the ground and lifts his butt in the air like he's ready to race haha! He's always looking to play and I love it. He's a great dog so I just wanted to send my thanks once again. I am definitely interested in perhaps purchasing another rollingoaks golden. I will keep you posted on that.

Thanks again : )

Justin

Note: here's a photo of Cruz when he was a puppy

2008-11-17T12:24:00.002-06:00

ROOKIE

Hi Barb-
I just want to give you an update on Rookie. I don't think I have ever sent you a photo of him. I have attached a couple for you to look at. He was Lily and Banner's born in June of 2003. I don't think that anyone could ask for a better companion. I am training with him to be a therapy dog. I know it will be very rewarding for the both of us. Rookie has added so much to my life and also to the people around me.
Thank you so much.

Tara

2008-11-09T20:24:00.012-06:00

THE GRANDKIDS

Both of my grandsons were at our house for the weekend, and had a blast! The puppies got a lot of attention!

2008-11-09T20:19:00.001-06:00

STELLA

Hey Barb,
I hope all is going well! Stella will be 2 in December and is AMAZING!! She has become the sweetest, most intelligent and athletic dog. I just took these pictures of her last night after getting done playing fetch (which is her favorite thing of ALL time). If you would like to post these, no problem.

Take care,

Angie and Scott

2008-11-06T21:48:00.002-06:00

GRANDPA JOHN

My father in law is living with us while recovering from a stroke. John was a dairy farmer. His parents came to America from Holland when they were 28 years old. To this day John can speak fluent Dutch! His first marriage was to Russ's mom, when he was 47 years old! When ever John needed a place to recover, he has come to stay with us. I have come to cherish the time with John. Although the cows are the most important thing in his life, as he lives in our home and sees what a typical family is like, I think he likes it! I see each one of our dogs snuggle up to him, they are all attracted to his kind heart. It has been so good for our family to learn the ways of former times, and appreciate the conviences of running water and electricity.

In John's day, there was no time for sports, and barely time for school. He has worked hard all his days, and now having a hard time being forced to slow down due to his age. I have gotten so used to having John here, I will really miss him when he leaves. There is a lesson to learn from the elderly. They see things in a clearer light than we do. Sometimes I get worked up about something and John will calm me down with a story from his past and how it all worked out! As I watch him slowly walk around the yard and pick up a stick here and there, snuggle with a puppy or read to Amy, I am blessed to have such a special man in my life.

2008-11-06T21:44:00.004-06:00

JEWEL'S PUPPIES

These are Jewel's two week-old puppies. There are puppies available in this litter. If you are interested, please fill out a puppy application.

2008-11-06T21:43:00.002-06:00

AMY & FRIENDS

Amy's friends came over to help hold puppies! This is Maddie's three week-old litter.

2008-11-06T21:41:00.003-06:00

KALI

Hi Barb,

I can’t believe we haven’t sent you an update about our adorable Kali! She is almost 8 months old and has truly become part of our family. She was recently spayed and it’s been really hard to keep her inactive. She loves going to the local dog park to play with the other dogs, humans and play fetch. During the summer we took her swimming numerous times – it’s was always hard to get her out of the water when it was time to go. We are excited to see how she plays in the snow, I am sure she will love it!

We have taken her through a couple of dog training classes and she has done very well – I think her humans need more training then she does ;-) Thanks for all of your fabulous training when she was a little one. She has liked her crate, other dogs and especially humans from the beginning.

Thanks for the wonderful addition to our family. Wherever you find us, Kali is not far behind!

Enjoying our puppy,

Rachel and Josh

2008-11-04T20:54:00.001-06:00

HIGGINS

Hi Barb, It's been a while since I last emailed you about Higgins. (from Ruby and Loch's Aug. 24th 06th litter). He is an absolute love. Both Steve and I don't know what we would do without him. He is smart, playful, snuggley, gentle, and very handsome. I have not entered him in any dog obed. shows but we are going to class for open level. I wish you could see him retrieve over the high jump. He is so graceful he takes your breath away. The instructor really wants me to compete with him but I have no desire to drive all over to get to the shows. I don't know if you remember but I wanted the biggest Golden that was available from that litter. Higgins was not the biggest but he did grow to 23 1/2 in and weighs 77lb. He is not as big as my first Golden 25 1/2 in and 95 lbs but I changed my mind and think he is plenty big. I'm not as young as I used to be. Higgins is my constant companion and makes my days enjoyable and full. I am so glad you picked him out of a litter of 12 cute puppies as a perfect match for me because that is what he is.

Debbie, Steve, and Higgins

2008-11-02T17:29:00.004-06:00

KULA

This is Kula, an 11 year old Rolling Oaks
Golden who still loves to hunt!

2008-11-01T06:10:00.000-05:00

THE BEST WAY TO TAKE A NAP

2008-10-30T22:05:00.003-05:00

JEWEL'S LITTER

Samuel checking on Jewel's puppies.

2008-10-30T22:03:00.000-05:00

MY HELPER IS BACK

Samuel came today to help me hold puppies. This is Maddie's litter.

2008-10-30T22:00:00.004-05:00

SYDNEY

Here is a picture of Sydney in her Halloween costume. (from Maddie's February litter) She is now 8 months old and weights 50#'s. She got fixed last weekend and has recovered well. She is full of energy ! Her favorite thing to do is hide rawhides around the house under blankets, in the laundry, in the bed - she is funny! Her coat and color is very beautiful! We absolutely love her.

Todd & Tracy

2008-10-24T16:52:00.003-05:00

JEWEL'S PUPPIES

Jewel's puppies...a bundle of love!