Costs

Unfortunately starting in the New Year, our costs will go up. Please contact nathan for updated costs.

Picnic Photos & Details

The picnic date took place on August 17, 2019 from 12pm to 5pm at Yvonne's place in Brighton. Check out the details here. Photos from the 2019 picnic can be found here. Yvonne's place is NEXT DOOR to her old place. I will try to put a havanese flag out front. Hope you can join us. Directions are here. The house # is 25. There is no picnic in 2020 due to COVID but hopefully in 2021. Stay Tuned!

Grooming 101

Want to see how I get a smooth coat and what equipment I use? I am continually learning and perfecting but I created this video Windows version) and for you Mac apple folks - here's a conversion. - not a professional one, to help you get a head start and perfect your own skill. Got questions? Ask away.

Want to know how to create a bathing machine that will save you time, product and wash your dog better than ever before? Check out Dick and Irma's instructions on how to create your own machine for a fraction of the cost.

Woofstock Is Back

Meet us at Woofstock. Dogs are welcomed. We meet at the restaurant across the street from Woodbine Park. Here is the location. Meet up happens on June 22, 2024 at 9:30 to 945am. Rain date is the next day. Look forward to seeing your havanese there and the humans too! Don't have your havanese yet? Well join us anyway! 

Award Photos
Friends & Associates
Blog Archive
Certified Pet First Aid

Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid is a recognized National Pet First Aid Certificate course for dog and cat professionals and pet owners. Talemaker Havanese now has that certificate having taken and passed the course.

Monday
Apr012019

Still

Tenshi is saying really.... this white stuff is well wet and sticks to my feet. LOL

Harper wants to give you an ahhhhh moment. He is being attentive to his new baby brother. Mazel Tov!!!

Dogs had fun today. Here is the gallery.

Raven's Willow was here for a bath and play. She had a glorious time. You will see more photos of her and videos in the 3 crew blog.

New relationships are developing. Play is abundant.

Murphy, Benji and Shlomo departs tomorrow. Chester arrives. 

I want to take a nap. LOL Roxie is in heat... sigh not being bred but 3 weeks of boy craziness. 

Sunday
Mar312019

Snow Wet Snow Really?

Stella got soaked outside and looked at me to say, really you are going to dry and brush me out again - really? Well, we have to get those snowballs off but you get a treat and hugs so well worth it.... don't you think?

Yes, the snow outside is the snowball type. It sticks on them and needs to be washed out, brushed out or combed out. Let's hope this is the last snowstorm. Tomorrow is April.

Here is the gallery.

Still, it didn't stop them from running and creating snowballs all over them. They had fun so truly its worth the effort.

Ella was presented at a judges education seminar today. She was wonderful and they couldn't believe how much coat she had left considering she had pups. She hasn't been in the show ring in quite sometime but she remembered.

Dogs are truly a cohesive bunch. Tomorrow I am going to try a new method of dematting with a high velocity dryer. I didn't know he was matted till he arrived. Have to stop dematting or find a new method. We shall see how it goes tomorrow. 

I want to finish the blogs and relax and snuggle with dogs.

Saturday
Mar302019

Messy is the Name

As it was raining today, the crew was wet and muddy. I still have a few dogs after blogging to do. 

Nathan is getting ready for a presentation to the judges and I am doing the blog and so many other things but feet is one as that nice clean floor is a muddy mess now. Dennis says, I am not cleaning it again till bedtime. I can't blame him.

Here is the gallery.

The gazebo helps for those that stay under it. It doesn't for those who think that mud is fun. I know we will get the pups out and no, I don't want them to head for the mud for you but rather not be afraid of it so one rainy day before they depart, I will be taking them outside and we will see how it goes. I know for me it will be adults plus pups but as this is spring, we need to truly get them used to mother nature. 

There are muddy mats they can walk on and cleaners for each paw. Its impossible for me if 5 dogs walk in the house at once and making them stay outside till each one is done is sort of defeating. But for you with 1 or two, it truly is much easier than what I do. 

Today, Scruffy, Pepper, Harlow, Frannie, Charlie and Gucci departed. Lots of grooming. Lots of fun to miss. 

It's been a fun day but boy do I have dogs to do. Then cuddles and sleep - my best time. Nathan brags this one cuddles with him and that ones does. Yeah, they snuggle with me too. hahaha

Last week next week with Charlie. Ali will miss him - us too!

Friday
Mar292019

Ice Melting

The rain is coming but today, other than ice, the weather was balmy. I just NOW finished grooming everyone. Some this morning and then throughout the day. I had 6 dogs to do plus puppy clicking and playing and now blogging. I did manage to get everyone combed out though the gallery you may see some but not all in that state. Just know fun is to be had. Scruffy was one I brushed early but he doesn't look like it. LOL

Here is the gallery.

Dogs had a blast today but I sorely need to stop blogging and relax as tomorrow is extra busy too. 

Nathan is getting ready for a Judges presentation on the standard. He will be showing Ella on Sunday. So, we have certificates to print out and handouts and all that fun stuff. Also, I am dealing with missing files on my hard drive. Don't ask. I don't want to talk about it but of course they are files that would take me hours to redo literally. Not going to think about it today. Well, not anymore.

Tomorrow we have the puppy visit and 100% chance of rain. Joy mud. 

Tomorrow and Sunday most depart. It's been a truly fun March Break.

Thursday
Mar282019

Muddy Day

This photo is endearing. Look who is kissing, Charlie - Stormy. I find the moments between the dogs quite nice. 

Here is today's gallery. If you want to see Ozzie and Ollie with the pups, check out Saffron's blog.

They played outside and came in with muddy paws. They played indoors and I didn't have to wash their feet. One has to laugh. 

Cold, warm, rainy all in one day. Mother nature is having fun. the dogs do not mind until the hail and rain comes down. Can you blame them?

Murphy, Coach, Sassy, Marlee and Sadie departed today. Quiter...sigh the after March break syndrome. Ozzie and Ollie came for a bath, cleanup and play and boy did they play.

Wednesday
Mar272019

No Gallery Day

I tell you Charlie is at it again with Ali. So much fun - these 2. They start in the morning and end at night. 

It's wonderful to see the dogs play!

Off to finish 1 more dog tonight.

Tuesday
Mar262019

Time for Home?

Sorry folks for being so late but I was supposed to do 2 dogs tonight and only got 1 done. I start in on the next at 8am. Oh boy...

Here is the gallery.

It's busy on vet day and we are getting ready for the 8 week visit plus Nathan has a seminar he is doing to show the judges the breed and what the standard is. So busy - busy. I live for Monday - I think.

This blog is going to be short. Pippin went home tonight. He has a dream coat and was very easy to do. I did him before the vets. I told his momma I would post a photo of him so she could see what he looked like groomed. I brushed him out again and he got so excited to see his human mom that he didn't look like he did above. LOL

Miss Daisy also departed. I was busy when you left. Sorry I didn't get a last snuggle in. Till next time!

Monday
Mar252019

Grooming and Then Some

This is Archie with Nathan. I have had a VERY busy grooming day. I had 11 pups, 7 dogs to do plus comb out the visitors. I still have 1 to do but I need to take a break for 15 minutes. Archie is a beauty! He's such a lovely dog.

Here is the gallery. You will see messy dogs, groomed dogs. It was a take photos in transition sort of a day. 

Radar and Patches was here for the day. Did manage to get them combed out. Radar is a play monkey. Patches loves to snuggle with Jeannie. Nathan took some photos of them and they were mighty blurry - or maybe it was Dennis. Not sure but unusable. I was disappointed but life happens.

Elvis, Archie, Winston, Adele, River and Ozzie departed today. Tomorrow Daisy and Pippin and we have a vet appt. Mr. Charlie arrived. Busy day but a fun day!!

Sunday
Mar242019

A Missing 4th BDAY Photo

Hi Darlah and Nathan,

Hope all is well with you and the family.

Thought I would send you an updated photo of Leonardo (Leo)

He is doing very well and is as spunky today as the day we picked him up. Always on the go!

Can't believe that he is four years old already. Time flies for sure!

If I'm not mistaken Darlah is also celebrating a birthday! Happy Birthday Darlah.

All the very best,

Leo and Family

----------------

Thank you, Mary!!!

Sunday
Mar242019

No Groom Day

Thought about not doing the blog but I haven't missed a day since I began the blogs even when I was not on a website but instead on blogger. So, why ruin a - can count on- thing.

As it's the birthday I decided not to groom anyone. I have a ton to do tomorrow on dogs departing that I need to start at 730am but I am not grooming today. Plus I had something strange happen to my hand where it locked in place with my fingers pointing up. It took me over 10 minutes to get it into a fist. Yes - overuse. For the 1st time I thought oh my shave all my dogs and not do any grooming any longer. But I got this way after a dematting so I think after these last 2 demattings, I will have to say no. Some knots, okay - down to skin mats - can't do it. My body is telling me no. Having my hand lock up like that was scary. So - after these 2, no more. No one can allow their dogs to get this matted and I have had many this last month. So, no more. I want to be able to use my hands. If they are starting to mat and you can't do them, bring them. Do not wait till they are bad, Tell me they are starting to mat, I need them in right away. 

Here is the uncombed look. 

I did lie above. I did comb out Willow and Sage as they couldn't see and I just couldn't handle it. LOL

I have had an amazing day. I was able to sleep in. I wasn't even sick so wow. I took a leisurely shower which most people would think yeah so... Well on a normal day I lather up fast, rinse off and get dressed as I do not have the time. Today, no rush. I am not going to have to do the dog dishes, laundry, cleaning up the pen, cleaning bums on dogs that may need it etc. If you knew what I do in a day. Sometimes at 10pm, I sit down or 1030pm and go ah sleep time. Tomorrow, hopefully I don't pay for it but I do have a ton of dogs to do. 

We will go out to eat after Nathan's nap. I may have a gin and tonic. I may opt to go to bed early and treasure each down moment this day gave me. 

I thank everyone for the greetings. I got cheese cake from Tenshi's mom and dad, a bottle of gin from Lynda, flowers from the Maissals, tshirt, garden tags and a cheese steak from Sherry and beautiful flowers that lasted till today from Walter and Marion. Did I forget someone? Please forgive me if I did. Profuse thank you. You made my day. My birthdays are usually a bust. This one is outstanding and I will remember it truly.

Dennis usually gets up about 11am these days. Nathan takes naps in the afternoon. I start in at 7am and finish at 10-1030. So these little down times are so golden. 

The dogs gave me hugs. They were excited to see that I finally got downstairs by 10 - how decadent. 

I am doing the blogs at leisure. I had wonderful puppy time. 

Wow... best birthday yet... thank you!

Saturday
Mar232019

Happy 4th

Taking a photo of these 2 is rather comical. Tenshi came over to celebrate and even brought snacks to share. These 2 are having a grand day. 

Happy Birthday to Murphy, Saffron, Maggie, Leo, PJ and Olive. Forgive me if I missed anyone. It's been a busy day but a fun one!

You can see our attempts in taking their photo in the main gallery of all the crew. You can also see Charlie Puppy from Raven's crew having a blast.

Tomorrow will be short blogs as I am taking a semi day off for the birthday. 

Hi!

Olive says she misses you on her 4th birthday!

Hope all is well!

Friday
Mar222019

Still Ice

It was bloody windy today and cold. It was like blow you away weather. brrr But the dogs still managed to have fun. I have started to comb them out before they go home or before bed. I am seeing how that works as it is driving me crazy to see them messy 5 minutes later. At least at bed time they stay that way for a bit.

Here is a small gallery.

Sherry took me shopping and out to eat for lunch for the birthday. I managed to get out but now need to play catch-up grooming. So the blog will be short.

We - my choice had a Phillie cheese steak - just like they make them in Philadelphia and I have had them there. It was Sherry's first taste of one and I think I have her wanting another too. Wonderful lunch and laughter. 

Tomorrow is Murphy's birthday - can you believe it. I will have to give her an extra special dinner. Maybe she can find Charlie's toy. LOL

Thursday
Mar212019

What a Mess

When they are perfectly groomed, they aren't being crazy busy with play. They tend to do that around here. Ali gets the messiest but she plays with everyone but really loves the Charlie.

Here is the gallery.

In the morning they all mill around waiting for Nathan to cook up veal or something similar to add to their food. They can smell it and they know the rituals. At night Nathan adds ground chicken. They are spoiled.

When I comb them out they stand and wait as they know they get a special treat. 

Its wet and mucky out there. I have had to clean feet already. What will the weekend bring if it gets even warmer. 

Wednesday
Mar202019

Siblings and Pals

Chloe - a Cinnamon pup from her 1st litter was here hanging out. She is Ali's sister and they played a ton. 

Here is the gallery.

Chloe and Brady departed today and I am positive they are going to sleep as they are both play monkeys. 

Ozzie arrived and is filling in for them getting the crew playing. 

Ali is also very close to Charlie.

Its warmer today. It's not hot but it gives us hope of warmer things to come. 

Sunday, someone is gracing my birthday with perfect weather. Let's hope they are right. Itr's supposed to be sunny and reach a high of 13c. If that happens - how lovely that will be for all. Here is hoping!

Tuesday
Mar192019

Getting Warmer

Charlie says, it is warm out but my feet are still cold. We are starting to see a melt in back. The front of the house has the walkways and driveway clear. No more complaints that it is too slippery. I think we bought 20 bags of salt this season. That's crazy. Gardens still have a mound of ice. 

It was warm today but not no coat warm. It will come.

Here is the gallery.

I missed the St. Patty's corned beef ritual that I do so I bought some today to have ready for tomorrow. A slow cooker comes in handy for busy times. I like to celebrate other people's holidays. 

Brady and Chloe departs tomorrow. 

My actual birthday is Sunday so I may ask to stay in bed in the morning. Do you think I can get away with it? Reduced blogs?  I had to celebrate it with the daughter early as she was not going to be around. I also had to get a dress for her wedding. She will be staying in Niagara this weekend. Adele and River will be spending time with us. The daughter travels all over the place. Not sure how she ever has downtime. Look at me talking.

Charlie's departed today and Lina brought me the loveliest orchids. Thank you! They are stunning!

Teshi just departed and  she gave the most wonderful kisses to Saffron's chocolate. Did I have a camera at hand - nah. Just Tenshi's dad William, Nathan and I got to see such an ahhhhh moment. It really was one.

I can't believe tomorrow is Wednesday. 

Monday
Mar182019

Ice Still

We still have solid ice out back but we are getting double digit weather for this weekend. Wednesday brings spring after all. Will we have a pond? is it time to get the pool opened? LOL

Here is the gallery. This gallery contains photos from yesterday and today.

Want to say thank you to Marion and Walter for the wonderful flowers. What a nice splash of colour. They are still gracing my desk in great health!

Marlee, Sadie, Charlie and Frannie arrived today. Harlow, Oscar and Coco departed. Tomorrow little Charlie departs. Wednesday Brady and Chloe. 

Dogs are having fun. It's not wet outside so my grooming is not futile - hooray!

Sunday
Mar172019

2 Updates: From Beau the Furry Leprechaun 

Hi Darlah and Nathan,

Wishing my fur mom Leti and the rest of the Talemaker family a Happy St. Patty’s Day!

Love Beau and his human Yan Family

Sunday
Mar172019

No Gallery Day

It is so nice that Stone welcomes a puppy spooning with him.

Some of these photos may have been in yesterday's gallery. No time to sort it out as I am going out.

Here is the gallery.

Ajax, Red and Socks departs today. All have had baths. It is a crazy schedule that I have to do to get a day off. LOL

Dogs are playing like crazy in the kitchen.

I am looking at a pantsuit online that is available at Vaughan mills for the wedding. Can I get away with it? It's super dressy. We shall see. What it looks like online and in a store is often different. UPDATE: Pants were too long so I got a dress, and shoes and a purse. Oh boy.

All I know that after the wedding we will be close to all puppies departing that are. Weather hopefully will be better than now. So much to do but swimming is in the cards - visitors to get their dogs swimming and good company. I so need downtime to a degree. This will be the 1st summer off - whatever off is in a long time. the projects are scary but I hope to take the classes I paid for but never find the time for. Revamp my middle garden bed. This year is reduce garden so I can relax more. Catch up on shows recorded from my bursting at the seams PVR. Wonder how much I will get done? Maybe not much but the pool, visitors, dogs - YES!

Saturday
Mar162019

Oh My

We had a pond in the backyard literally and now its ice. You can't win. 

Here is the gallery.

The dogs still manage to have fun and I am removing hair from any visitors pads to make sure they have traction. 

Ajax, Red and Socks depart tomorrow. I will be out with the daughter as she is in Niagara for my birthday. So, short blogs all across the board.

Friday
Mar152019

Having Fun

Ajax from Stormy's litter is visiting and he goes home Sunday. I will tell you little pups, big pups, adults - bring it on. He is a riot. As you will see in the gallery, he has been having a ton of fun and all the dogs are enjoying him - even the ones that are older and say 'really young thing' are giving into the play.

Here is the gallery.

Its sopping wet outside. Been going non stop. 

I go out Sunday so no grooming. Sorry folks. I earned it in a huge way. I will have dogs going home on Sunday ready before I depart. I hope to eat something good as Nathan has to shop. We had Popeyes tonight. Not my idea of decent food.

Dogs are coming in SOAKING wet. Thank you for the gazebos or it would be worse.

I have a knee bothering me but I am determined to shop Sunday even if it still hurts. Knee brace and away I go. I so need a break. Lately I go from 7am till bedtime with no breaks - no tv...nada. 

Checked out Akasaka and they now have new owners. I decide where the birthday meal will be. The prices have gone up and the menu is not the same. So we are heading to Kobe Teppanyaki. We have never been so I am so hoping its good. 

Tomorrow night I have 3 dogs to wash and do haircuts on after the puppy visit. That means blogs will be late. Sorry and hoping Sunday they take photos or the blogs will be short again Sunday. LOL

Hoping everyone has enjoyed their March Break. Tomorrow Murphy gal arrives. Barney, Scout, Coco and Charlie departs. 

It's a weekend - what's a weekend. Hope everyone is staying dry and having a fabulous time!