Funny and brilliant post!

We are not hung up on birthday's either unless it somehow finds a way of decreasing!

Happy birthday Sammy

That was brilliant!!! Wish Sammy a Happy Happy Birthday!!

HAPPEH BIRFDAY SAMMY!

Sammy shares this day of birth with Bill Clinton and John Stamos.
And yes, it is now FACT that pets give way more to us humans than we could give back to them.
Pet parents everywhere know the excess of spoiling and the hours lingering in the pet aisle like we are looking for diamonds in a quest to find the perfect food, toy or bedding.
I am a cat parent, basically they let me live with them and I dutifully serve them.
They have ignoring and computer screen blocking down to a fine science.

WE MISS YOUR BLOGS JACK! So thanks for this one.
XXO♥

Happy Birthday Sammy. And not to worry, I think they can tell the difference in the songs. One of mine doesn't care about Happy Birthday but he peps up with the theme song to Different Strokes.

Very sweet! Tell Sammy I said Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Sammy, make sure Jack gets you a cake, and a few extra hugs. Brilliant blog

Hi, Jack!

Happy birthday Sammy !!!!!!!

My puppy is away from me and your affection with Sammy,made me miss my Juju! !

Yesterday was my mother's birthday, so I won't forget the birthday of Sammy. Next day of my mom!

Again! Happy birthday Sammy !!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Sammy!

Have a really wonderful birthday, Sammy. Stay flatulent and continue fornicating whenever possible.

Jack, Great post as always. Being a dog lover whose dog just turned 8 on the 5th I really enjoyed. Happy Birthday Sammy. Have a shot for me.

Great post! I feel the same way about my dog. .

That's the best birthday card you could write to a best friend. I have a German wire haired pointer and every day he makes my day better. Although the snoring in the dead of night is really a bit disconcerting.

Happy birthday Sammy! Love this post and can only add one more thing about the sweet sound of a dog snoring...even sweeter is their deep heavy sigh as they lay down at the end of the day, as if to say with that sigh, "Day is done and all is good with the world".

Many happy returns for the day Sammy!

Happy Birthday Sammy! Enjoy your day to the fullest

Hi Jack

Happy Birthday Sammy ! Long time no blog i thought you left 360 team or something i'm gald you blogged today it's so sweet your devotion to Sammy the menthol smoking dog. I hope you bought her a new pack for her birthday .

Thanks Jack
Have a ggreat day !
Michelle D.

You are absolutely amazing... i love your twitter post as well .. keep posting cause we love it...

Happy B-day Sammy

You are hilarious. Happy birthday to sweet Sammy.

It's your tweet crush here to wish Sammy a Happy Birthday and many liver biscuits on his special day!!! A steak might be in order too. Just sayin...

What a fun story to read. My girl Sammi is 7yrs old, a shepherd/chow mix, a big red ball of crazy energy and my shadow wherever we go. There's nothing like pulling into the driveway after work and seeing her happy face in the bay window or curling up on the couch with her in the evenings to watch TV. That's good preventative health care, indeed!
Happy Birthday Sammy!

Long live Sammy! xxoo

So sweet and heartfelt! Dogs really do give so much to us.

Happy Birthday Sammy! May you live forever.

I know how you feel..though when the dog and the husband snore in concert it is to say the least a little "disconcerting" Happy Birthday to Sammy. Good post ..made me smile. I've often watched the paws paddle as they sleep and the goofy grin spread across his face and thought it must not be to bad to be him if he can grin like that in his sleep.

Happy Birthday Sammy!

Jack, as always, is right! Pets are the best friends anyone can have. I am deathly allergic to anything with fur, but i will suffer the pain of shots every month to have my two cats, Socrates and Princess Fatty, with me to cuddle with and spill my problems to. It's cheaper than therapy!

Jack, I hope Sammy lives to be 100 because she is darn cute!

Morning Jack!

Happy Birthday Sammy!

Yeah , I have two tuxedo kitties and each year they always get special food for their birthday. No need for dressing up, they always are prepared. I know that they have no idea what a birthday is, but they love their Paul Newman organic cat food. Of course by now after just six short years of life they demand it daily.

The entire healthcare debate reminds me of how backwards are domesticated pawed friends have it. You go to the vet you pay up front and that could be a fortune. They do make our lives better and they deserve insurance like ours.

As for being good for my health, I know for certain just as I have spent hours and months and years trying to train one of my cats not to claw and tear the expensive blinds or not to claw up the carpet for attention(which does get my attwntion), I'm pretty sure that every time I get sick, my cats have no concept of what that is. They only know that they want what they want when they want it. They want our undivided attention. Which means thank goodness for tivo when I hear paws on my dresser while I'm watching Hells Kitchen my husband can press pause and the other paws stop practicing wax on waax off on my dresser and I can be sure to not miss Chef Ramseu yell"You Donkey".
As my husband says its their home we just live in it.

I have sung happy birthday to them and they look at me like I'm out of my mind. Basically its ancient egypt and they are to be worshipped. Since cats have nine lives seems appropiate. I hope to live long enough to catch up with them in cat years.

Love the picture of Sammy. That's one of the many things cats just will not do.

You made my day!

Happy Birthday, Sammy!

She looks like a very happy doggie!

Happy Birthday Sammy! She's a really cute pooch and looks well-loved. Dogs are the best friends in the world; they adore you every second of every day, no matter how they feel; they're totally giving of themselves.

never trust a man who doesn't love a dog. love you, love your dog. love your blog.

Happy Birthday, Sammy!

Love, Shadow pup's mom

Hi Jack! Tell Sammy I wish her a Happy Birthday!

Sometimes I imagine what the world would be like if all humans have the unconditional love that dogs have. There would be no hate and no wars. Just love, peace, and harmony. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

Have a great day,

Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

So glad to see a new blog, Jack! It brightened my day! Happy Birthday to Sammy!

So are you taking her out clubbing tonight? If so ,she should get to choose where you're going! Happy Birthday sweet Sammy! "Show me that smile again,Don't waste another minute on your crying.We're nowhere near the end.The best is ready to begin...As long as we got each other... : )

Happy Birthday Sammy, from all who know you through your friend Jack Gray!
This little poem is for all you dog lovers out there today.

You can tell a dog anything that's on your mind,
And he'll never tell on you like one of your own kind.

How many others see you at your worst or best everyday,
And never judge you or give secrets away.

All a dog wants is food, drink and a roof over his head,
And to sleep with you on the bed.

They wake up trying to please you everyday,
Do you know of a human who would treat you this way?

I'm sure if dogs could talk to each other they'd say,
These humans need to shut-up, quit stressing and take time out to play.

So dig in the trash, eat a shoe, go for a walk,
Like is a blast for a dog who can't even talk!

You=Love

Happy b-day sammy. I have a black lab named buddy he is great even when he eats a whole loaf of bread

They most certainly add to the value of your health. Its a proven fact. There are also trained dogs which can warn people before having seizures, and in the case of my mom, her dog helped her stroke recovery by leaps and bounds. They know endless love, are forgiving and much more enjoyable to be around then most people.

Happy Birthday Sammy....it sounds like you have a great human in your life.

Happy Birthday, Sammy!

I, too, celebrate my pet's birthday - and he's a parrot.

May 25th is his official 'Hatch Day' - and I go all out to make him feel extra special. Half the time he looks at me quizzically and wonders why he's getting extra fruit and a WHOLE blueberry muffin all to himself.

Cheeky T., as he's called (the T. stand for T. rex, btw) is the ultimate stress-buster for me. Not only is he funny & chatty, but he also makes me a healthier, better person overall. And he loves me unconditionally.

Three cheers for all pets!!!

I completely agree!!!!! Happy Birthday Sammy and bless your soul for understanding the God given gift of puppy love!

Happy Birthday, Sammy!!!! Thanks for the laugh... I love birthdays and I love dogs!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAMMY!!!!!

I grew up with three dogs and a cat. I am 47 this year living in an apartment and can only have a cat. I wouldn't change my life. I can't even imagine my life without the dogs and kitties. They are part of your family,

As a small child, Dad had the two Britney Spaniels and Mom had her Poodle.

Each week Monday – Friday my Father's dog would sit by the window in the Den, watching and waiting for his car. Even before we could see the lights on the car the old boy would get so excited, race to the front door. When Dad arrived what a greeting he always received from his best friend.

Animals are extremely helpful in the health and well being of people. When I am not feeling well, my dog Candy, comes and snuggles and hangs out with me until she knows I feel better. I love my dog

Happy Birthday Sammy. Happiness leads to healthiness and I know my two cats give me lots of happiness. Dog snorning or a cat purring it soothes the soul. Nice story.

Happy Birthday Sammy!!

I think Sammy already got the best birthday present an animal can get , a loving family!
Happy Birthday Sammy

The ultimate form of unconditional love certainly comes our dog(s).
I don't know if pet ownership MAKES one healthy, but it certainly removes some of the focus off of our daily pains. It is comforting to know that it is possible to have permanent loving attachments that aren't hinged on looks/money/position/power. Hell, our dogs are impressed with us merely because WE have pockets. :^)

Anderson,

I live with three long toothed "rescue" dogs.
The answer is definitely ... yes !!!

Regards,
Randy

Great post! Dogs ARE great companions; I am a firm believer that they contribute to making their owners healthier – physically, emotionally and mentally.

Happy birthday, Sammy! Erin

What a riot! My dog Solange was 9 in July.

I want to know if Anderson has a dog. He seems to gravitate to them on his news jaunts, like in New Orleans . . .

Surely a foie gras encrusted pet treat from Bouchon Bakery is in order for Sammy's birthday. My dog, Lucy, perferred the mutter butters, but those are no longer in stock.

Having a dog means having your own social secretary / personal trainer, albeit a furry one. There's very little sleeping in and certainly no skipping of walks - unless it's thundering and lightening like last night. Also, you get to know your neighbors and other dog parents.

In Lucy's prime, all the doormen and shopkeepers knew her and kept treats for when we "visit" on our daily walks. Now 13 and a bit hobbled by arthritis, she is enthusiastic only if I say "Furry Paws!" How does that shop stay in business when we go out of town?

Ah, but on this hot day, Lucy prefers the comfort of a cool tub in a dimly light bathroom. We may venture out later, but only after I carry her down the flights of stairs. As I said, she keeps me in shape.

Happy Birthday Sammy! Many returns!

Sammy, you look just like a dog I used to have.

Some info for you Jack: if Sammy's got fleas be careful when treating her with those multi-purpose flea treatments that control internal parasites too. Just buy the stuff for the fleas. The reason you should be careful is because Labrador Retrievers have been having life-threatening reactions to the multi-purpose pesticides. I learned this the hard way. Only a dedicated vet and about a thousand dollars in medical bills saved the life of my lab after we treated her with the flea and internal parasite treatment. Just use the stuff for the fleas. For some reason Labrador's livers can't handle the multipurpose stuff.

Awwww, such a cute post today. Very touching and heartfelt. Happy Birthday to Sammy! What a great little treasure you have! Hope your day is a good one, good to see your post. Take care, talk to you later.

Love the post! Happy Birthday Sammy! Having a dog (or cat – we have both) is simply the best. Nothing like having someone who is ALWAYS glad to see you and who knows when you need a little extra nudge of their head or lick on the face. Life would be so empty w/o our furry kids!

Life without pets would be dismal. Happy birthday, Sammy

Wouldn't it be great if the world were more dog-friendly? I would bring Bailey and Stella on even more adventures. Bailey will celebrate his 9th birthday next week. From Bailey to Sammy, "Happy birthday!"

Happy Birthday Sammy!

And a great big HELLO to Jack for singing to the birthday girl!

I really enjoy reading your blog!

I sing to The Bun every day. Usually the beginning of Sam Cooke's "Sentimental Reasons." The I love you, I love you part. He knows that means come over here and schnuggle, kiss me and we'll be our goobery selves no matter how disappointing life may be. He turned 10 yrs in May. Blows many minds that a bunny could be that old and as wonderful, smart and active. Yet, he is. Thanks in large part to my singing, devotion and letting him half of the queen sized bed.

Nobody loves you like your dog:) I have a dog and 2 cats – the cats let me come into their world and my dog lives to be in my world. Life is better when you look at it through your dogs eyes or nose.

Happy Birthday Sammy, A dog is a mans best friend. Love the article.

Happy Birthday, Sammy! Hope the carton of Newports didn't get lost in the mail.

I love it !! My dog MO MO says Happy Birthday! Woof where's the cake?

Awesome. I know the feeling all to well of a dog's unconditional love. I'm babysitting my coworker's dog, who happens to by my dog's best dog-friend. My little boy has been upset about the undue amount of attention the new interloper has been getting, but all it took was a half hour of cuddle time last night at bed time to put his mind to ease and reaffirm he's the one for me. Happy b-day Sammy!

You need a cat.

That was very touching! My family had a yellow Lab that was the best dog and probably family member we ever had. He would go on hunts with my father and then come home to be the family dog, asking for scraps from the table when we finished. He was my buddy when adolescence was too tough–he would just sit there and allow me to hug him and cry about life. We had to put him down this past April due to heart and breathing issues. He's still a part of my family and Labradors will always be our favorite dogs.

Happy Birthday Sammy! Girlfriend has sass and a sweet pair of shades to boot. Growing up, my family always had black labs, and now as a Chicagoan living on my own I don't own a dog... yet. When I do get one, you better believe she's going to be a black lab. Life without pets just isn't as vibrant as life with, so Jack I'm happy you get to share your studio with man's best friend. When I celebrate my own birthday this Friday, I'll think of Sammy when I take my first shot of Jagermeister.

That was really nice Mr. Gray. I enjoyed the read. Thank you. And Happy Birthday Sammy. By the way cats are nice too.

Donna Wood
Lexington, Tennessee
(aka...friskyfeline)

happy birthday girl! you have a wonderful daddy =O)

jack, may i recommend an excellent read?
please look into one ny times best sellers
"THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN" a novel by garth stein. YOU WILL LOVE IT!!
so, daoes sammy get a steak for her b-day?
blessings~ @tracey =O)

Happy Birthday Sammie, from me & my lil man, Perry (3 month old rat terrier)!

Yes, and all is right with the world when your dog is sleeping and you put your nose to their fur and smell theater popcorn...the best smell ever!

Happy Birthday, Sammy!

My dog goes bonkers when I whistle the theme from the Andy Griffith show to him. Doesn't care about other tunes, but will jump up out of a slumber with just those first few notes.

He's also a good snorer. I especially love to watch him when he's dreaming though. His little feet running through imaginary fields, his tail wagging and his little yelps as he tries to catch some sort of small critter. It's hysterical!

Give Sammy a big hug for me.

Happy Birthday Sammy!

From: the owner of a blonde half-lab/half-laika named Sam...he is 4 1/2 mos. and quite a pro at snoring too!!

U have to ask?
I always say dogs r wat's right abt our universe.
There r no bad dogs, only bad dog owners/handlers n ppl who mistreat them to d point they distrust humans.
Dogs r all meant to be angels.
I just twitted tat I need to see happy dogs like I need to breathe – happy dogs remind me there's hope in our world yet.
Hope as rare perhaps, as sighting a flower growing between sand n stone.
Sigh ... I love dogs!

your grandmother goes clubbing at 2am??!!

anyways, loved the article, really touching,especially for a dog-lover ...

Great post - our Australian Shephard is 11, and is one of life's most pleasant listeners. Happy Birthday Sammy.

Sammy is *almost* as cute as my dog Lucky. Similar to your snoring pup, I enjoy this weird/excited snorting noise that Lucky makes when I come home every day. It makes me laugh every time!

I couldn't agree more about canine companions!! You wouldn't believe the difference a visit from a dog makes to nursing home residents!! It's HUGE. I know of one resident who hasn't spoken to "people" in years who started talking to visiting dog. When the dog left, she quit talking again!! I feel the same way sometimes!

I really did LOL ... several times!
Thanks for that

Sweetness. Happy Birthday Sammy! Love doggies. I can always tell a dog lover.. they just get it. I only date doglovers.. just a different breed of man My golden retriever is a 95 lb golden retriever named Hubble (Robert Redford in "The Way We Were" (best romance movie)...not the telescope..

Just like any proud parent; I just busted out some pictures to show my painting contractor my wild 3 year old Labrador attempting to "install" door-knobs straight from the impossible packaging! Then the conversation moved to "who lives in this kennel?" That's when the tears welled up in my eyes and I explained that I haven't the heart to fold up the kennel where my constant companion of the last 13 years had napped.
The only downside of experiencing doggie love; is the extreme grief when their all too short lives come to an end.

My take on pets is that people who have dogs and or pets are much nicer people. When I take walks around my little town the people that walk their dogs are much nicer and always have a few words to say. The ones that are just walking with out a dog usually don't even look at me.
Love people with pets, and loved your post
Lynnette

I can count on one hand the number of weeks my life hasn't included a dog (or two). They are the constant love, affection, and cold, wet nose every person should never live without. Each holds a special place in my heart. Doc was my junkyard dog who roamed far and wide and always seemed to end up eating through someone's garbage can. Bear never stopped fetching a stick and trying to put his 100-lb self on any lap he could find. Andie (Bear's sister) could care less about fetching anything and would save her kisses just for me. Montana is a fierce chipmunk hunter with a soft side for people with disabilities whom he watches over with a gentle touch.

I think dogs show us the beauty of individuality, forgiveness, unconditional love, and living life to the fullest everyday. I can't imagine my life without them.

Happy Birthday Sammy! Though something tells me your dad treats you like it's your birthday everyday...as he should.

YOU GOTTA LOVE THEM LABS. My girl is 12, gray faced and flatulent. It is to the point that when she farts it is so loud she turns around to look at her butt and then gets up and moves as if it was someone else who did it. At least I am pretty sure it was her.

Oh I'm so sorry I meant to wish her a Happy Birthday too. She doesn't look a day over 4.

Happy Birthday Sammy!!! Animals are amazing i love them all...especially dogs. My Jassy is 13 years old, she gets me up in the morning for her walk and before we retire for the night we go for our evening stroll. Normally for her birthday I buy her a piece of beef jerkie from the South African Store ....she just loves it!!

Yes.
If my dog hears "sit. come. stay." and it's not coming from an honest place within me, she won't come, sit, or stay.
try it.
As insignificant as it may seem, they force you to mean what you say each and every time. Otherwise, they don't trust you. It's as simple as that.
Now I understand why they say dogs always know better.
It's kind of fascinating.

I have 4 small dogs, three Chihuahuas and a Min-Pin...I love them all dearly though at times, not all equally. They are truly man's best friend and one of the reasons I don't need a husband!

Happy birthday, Sammy! Jack, I had a black lab who lived 11 years, he was bad and stubborn just like Marley as in the book "Marley and me". After he died, I mourned his lost for 9 mos. Then, I decided to get a scottish terrier. Boy was I in for a great surprise! Terriers are aloof and you don't tell them what to do, you have to negotiate. Cedric is 7 yrs old now and when he was very young, he took possesion of one of my winter glover and from then on he hides it and I have to find it. He just looks at me and I know what he wants, my husband and I are his servants and he is the master of the house. He is my companion and goes with me everywhere. Also, I need to mention that he is a talker. You should hear how he greets me in the morning. Hearing him makes my day! Buy a special treat for Sammy in my name.

My moms dogs name is Sammy too and she feels the same way about her Sammy...I hope your dog has a great day. Im more of a cat person, my Angelmary is the best thing on earth.

Happy Birthday Sammy! Excellent blog post Jack, it made me cry and laugh and made me miss my dogs even more.

"Animals are everything that humans are not – - Loyal, unconditional, non-judgmental, emotionally intuitive and rarely on a diet." For those reasons, I get along better with animals than with people. I hope Sammy had the happiest of birthdays! You are fortunate to have each other.

Hey Jack, so nice to see you haven't forgotten your faithful followers – although the odd Tweet to some of us wouldn't hurt now and then – and have put fingers to keyboard to bring us yet another literary masterpiece!

I'm sending big hugs and tail wags across the pond to the birthday girl. Sammy, my darling, have a fabulous day, these guys don't realise it, but us women improve with age, just like a fine wine. Which reminds me, make sure Jack doesn't palm you off with the cheap plonk for your birthday dinner – tell him it's champagne all the way!

Talking of birthdays, I'm having another one next Thursday. Can't believe it's been a year since the last one (the big 4-0). Just putting it out there...later dudes..

[...] Anderson Cooper 360: Blog Archive – The birthday girl has fleas ... [...]

Ah, so true! Dogs may not be our whole lives (yeah, right) but they definitely make our lives whole. I cannot fathom how empty and boring my life would be without my three: GizmInuYasha, a male ChiPin (Chihuahua-MiniPin); Phoebe, a female Chi-terrier; and PigMeena, their daughter. Oh, what spoiled canine children! There is nothing like lying down with them and seeing those little faces looking at me, so trusting, so loving. It's hard to believe I'm just their adoptive mother sometimes, because they are so much a part of me.

Happy Birthday Sammy!

Jack – the more humans I meet, the more I appreciate my cats for their undying loyality and simplicity; a simple cuddle, treat or playtime with a toy brings them, and me, such joy.

Here's to many more years of birthdays and hijinks!

happy birthday Sammy from Sandy,a rescued lurcher who was badly treated before we picked him out at local dog home.He,s thelove of our life and spoiled,gets the run of our house and garden and made many friends both human and canine.He was in the dog home for mon ths and was passed by because of his size and although we are both in our sixties we could not pass him by.At first he took us for a walk but with a little understanding at what he might have went through with previous owners[we knew he had been mistreated] it wasn,t long before he trusted us and kept by our sides when we went for walkies.So as they say in Scotland,Sammy lang may your lum reek.We hope you have many happy years together.

I have friends who have 2 labs, Poppy and Hattie, and as you said, my friends are their sun and moon and probably stars. They are completely, and unconditionally devoted. Now where would you find a partner like that??? Happy birthday Sammy! And if your snores are anything like my cat's snores, it's music to my ears.

Pets are family! I live alone with Zac, my yellow tabby. He sometimes deigns to listen to me and always talks when 'snicky snacks' are to be had. He'll get agitated when bad weather approaches (almost as reliable as arthritiis and more reliable than weathe radio)
I live for his purrs. The low rhythmic calming effect can lower anyone's blood pressure.
Isn't it wonderful our pets let us live with them? Proud to be Zac's "staff."

Happy Birthday Sammy!
I have had a few dogs in my time. I have a degree in music education but I threw it away to the dogs. Yep, that is right. I have devoted my life to animal rescue and humane education. And I sing a lot.
To mention a few of the amazing animals I have had: I had a dog who turned on the TV to watch, Chip the German Shepherd.
I had a rottweiler who could perform all kind of tricks including reading three words Sit, Shake, and Speak. Those even confuse me. His name was Schindler and he was given a shuttle lapel pin by NASA. He was brilliant and even pushed my daughter out of the way of a poisonous snake. His ashes are in my foyer with his pic and NASA pin.
i had a horse who performed tricks Spunky was her name. I loved her.
I won't bore you but I now have a little yorkie mix who says "GO" randomly. He freaks people out!
But what REALLY freaks people out is my 17 year old cat whom I have talked to so much she says, "Hello" and "I love you".
People who visit think we are the Adam's Family! No kidding!
You don't even want to know about my spoiled grandog. He is just like Sammy, a loveable trouble maker.
Give Sammy a big hug for me! (((HUG))))
We will have champange sangria and dog biscuits in her honor today!
Cheers and Tail Wags!
@BettyAnnTX
P.S. Love ur blog! U r missed !

My dog:
A jack russell terrier puppy, who showed up on my door step in Tblisi, Georgia (former USSR).
About five weeks old, full of worms.
"Owned" by the neighbor, a corrupt customs officer.
After two weeks of treatments in sparse conditions, she was worm-free.
I bribed her "owner" and snuck her out of the country, thanks to Austrian Airlines, which turned a blind eye (Austrians have a soft heart when it comes to dogs).
Flight attendants played with her on the flight.
She has the run of the Austrian town I live in. Is welcomed warmly in the cafes, and scuttles back into the kitchen for treats. She is the only dog in the village allowed on the seat at both the Landman Cafe and the Eckerl Cafe.
She rides in my vintage London Black Cab. Sometimes window surfs.
She hunts twice a day in the farmers' fields for mice, and chases jackrabbits and birds.
I sometimes carry her over my shoulder, so she can "look out the back window."
When she was suffering after surgery (to repair a knee ligament,) the only thing that would calm her was singing to her.

Oreo (17 months old shih tzu) says Happy Birthday to Sammy! I help my people keep healthy, I beg for food so they don't overeat. I make them take me out, so they get exercise (otherwise they'd never get out of their chairs). I chase my tail and they laugh so hard it's like exercise. And I still have time to snuggle and that keeps their blood pressure down. Now if only they'd look the other way when I want quality time with Rosalie the siamese cat. Not that I'm sure why I want it. I mean, they chopped off my nads, man. Yay, me, I'm Oreo!

Happy Birthday Sammy!!! and congrats to you Jack on being brave enough to blog about your best pal. I have a papillon named Marie who in her first six months (now 18 mos) was spade at 5 mos then broke one of her little tiny leg in two spots while jumping haphazardly at home and had to spend two months confined while it healed. I spent every hour at her side and slept next to her on a camping pad with the backaches to prove it. Marie and I have been inseparable ever since. She knows when I am sad or not feeling well and reaches up from my lap to give me extra kisses to cheer me up and make me laugh. I was always a cat person all my life but after Marie came into my life I can understand why dogs are man's best friends.

Happy Happy Birthday to Sammy!
The highlight of my day is walking through the back door and seeing our Jack Russell, Butters, waiting to jump on me in pure delight. I can attest to the restorative power of puppy love: when Butters crawls into my lap and nuzzles his cold nose against my face, I can feel my blood pressure dropping. Butters eats with me and sleeps with me and we take long walks together... He even loves me enough to sit still while I sing to him – Blondie is his favorite. Even he's only been in my life for 2 years, I can't remember what my life was like before he came.

Happy Birthday Sammy. Please give Jack a big warm fuzzy hug for loving you so much and for sharing your birthday with his friends.
Woof,
PJ ( Stephen's Jack Russell)

Great blog as always Jack! My Black Lab Flash is almost 9 and has an aversion to storm drains (refuses to walk near them) and bridges (hates to walk over them). She definitely is part of my health care since she demands several nice long walks to go and see her many friends each day. Her birthday is next month and will be celebrated with a trip to the local popsicle shop (they have pops for dogs too) and a trip to PetSmart for a new toy.
Happy Birthday Sammy!

oh such a sweet post about your dog, it made me miss my dog , lulu which we had to put to sleep just last friday due to renal failure she was 11 and her miss her company so much.

happy birthday sammy!

Happy Birthday Sammy! You're right Jack...the sound of your little angel snoring is THE best sound in the world...so soothing. I never realized how blessed I was with my cat, Mimi, for 14 years, until we had to let her go to kitty heaven last month. Losing her makes me cherish every second with my dog, Chloe, who, along with me, misses her terribly. Thanks for such a touching blog, as usual.

Happy Birthday Sammy, from me and my pal Sassey!
Great blog ,Jack (as always). We love you both!

Happy Birthday Sammy,

from Tia (another sweet snoring black lab)

PS- note to Jack Gray- you are not completely dogified until someone catches you trying to get Sammy to say "Arf, Arf, U"

I lost my 9 year old yellow lab, Miles to cancer this past April. I cannot tell you how much my husband and I miss the sound of that LOUD snoring as he would stretch out on the sofa without a care in the world. We still have two Golden Retrivers we love dearly, but Miles was our angel and funny, funny love bug. Enjoy every minute with Sammy and spoil her silly on this birthday and thank you for sharing your special girl's story.

Happy Birthday Sammy!

These greetings come from me and my basenji mix, Miss Samantha Jane Noodles, aka Sammy.

Sammy and I lost our best friend, Hanna, the yellow labrador, in December after a battle with cancer. I still miss Hanna every day, and I don't know what I'd do without Sammy to snore softly by my side.

Glad you and Sammy have each other.

As I sit here, listening to a book, and flipping between twitter and facebook, I totally enjoyed your birthday salute to your sweet dog. Sophie, my black lab is 16 months old. She is my shadow, and my heart. I've had her for a year this week and each day has been an adventure because I get to see the world through a dog's eyes.
So keep enjoying Sammy, and thanks for the great story.

awe,that was incredibly sweet! Happy Birthday sammy

Adorable dog and a post that makes you smile...Happy Birthday puppy!

the dog is beautiful

I love reading something that touches both my brain and my dog-lovin' heart. My brilliant, sensitive terri-poo Meggie was 17 when I had to let her go. We had a rocky road at times, but she never waivered from my side. I'm so lucky to now have a husband who also wags his tail when I come home, but I'll never forget that special relationship. Meggie did not steal my cigs (which, incidentally I gave up 8 months ago after 37 years – she would have been proud). She did however, fancy the occasional chew of other smoking materials she found in couch cushions, which perhaps explained her having wisdom beyond her species. Happy birthday Sammy!

Happy Birthday, Sammy! Love the glasses. I'll do a shot of Jack Daniels tonight with my cat in your honor.

i have had my dog blackie for about 10 years. got him at the pound, a lesbian couple moved and couldnt take him with them. he is a good dog. just likes woman more than men. kinda neurotic. sleeps with his head under my hubbys side of the bed. sings (howls) to me alot. has a great big smart bump on his head and is really smart. keeps grandkids in the yard by coralling them. runs interference when they try to escape. cuts em off at the pass, so to speak. sits under kids chairs at the table waiting for crumbs to fall. he's part black lab, part poodle i guess. black and hairy. pretty though. good dog.

That was brilliant! Happy Birthday Sammy!

Great hearing from you Jack. Say happy 35th to Sammy
for me. That is her age in dog years.

happy day sammy

I suppose Sammy is that beautiful dog. why everybody greet it. who is her owner plz.

I love this article – I do the same things you do – sing, baby talk – my doggie is my child.

Happy Birthday Sammy and if it makes you feel better, my dog has fleas too. Has cost me a fortune getting rid of them and getting her comfortable again but anything for her.

Very funny column... We have a lovable whippet named Skoshi. She's our second child who just turned 10. For a sight hound whose top running speed can reach 37 mph she's really more of a couch potato. We call her our “love sponge” and we don't know what we would do without her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAMMY!!!!
Thanks Jack for making me smile, it's nice to see I'm not the only dog lover.

Great column, very funny!
Dogs are the best!

Happy Birthday Sammy!

Never underestimate the intelligence of your dog. Recently our local news did a story on pooches and stated that on average, dogs have the mentality of a 2 year old and they can comprehend up to 165 words. Which is probably more knowledge AND vocabulary than your pub crawlers downstairs. I have 2 dogs, Roli is 4 and Sammy is 6 and on the rare occasion when they aren't at home when I get here, the silence is the lonliest sound on earth. I love your stories and I follow your every tweet. My favorite was last hump day! Thanks for being Jack Gray.

Welcome back Jack!! Long time no see for you or Sammy. And what a great post. I had a couple of dogs growing up – Jake, a German shepherd, and Seymour, a Bassett hound. They both had flatulence but neither would admit to it. And Seymour snored something terrible. Jake would get up and leave the room when Seymour got started.

Their specialty though was their birthday cake trick. All you needed for the trick was a b'day cake, and some stupid humans. While the humans clustered around your partner in crime the main dog of the act jumped up on the table, grabbed the cake and ran like the hounds of hell were after him – my mother just had this effect on people. It usually ended up with the dogs getting the cake and us getting zilch – but it was their birthday. The dogs I've had since i grew up won't touch cake – they just steal steaks off he grill outside. We're trying cupcakes this year.

There is much more than adequate research regarding the benefits to your mental health from having a pet that there are dogs called "service dogs"–not just for the physically handicapped anymore. Many mental health professionals actually prescribe to their patients to acquire a pet (generally, a dog).

Wow, Jack is Back! I guess this means I need to blow off the dust on my "I'm a Jack Gray Groupie" pin and start wearing it again.....

I'm a believer that pets, especially dogs, give you something to live for which, in effect, is healthy. My poodle is getting up there in dog years and is having difficulty hearing. I, on the other hand, recently had some surgery and temporarily don't have a voice. Therefore she can't hear me and I can't speak to her.....we make a great team!

Happy B-Day to Sammy!

BTW, love the pic. Sammy's got the shades on but where's her tube top? Don't tell me she's gotten rid of them all.....

Last night I had 90 degree heat with 70% humidity and my dog was panting his hot smelly breath all over me – not to mention the drool that was dripping from his mouth onto my legs. At times like that, I have a new appreciation for the fish. And then there's the cat, who was yelling at me at 4:00 AM the other day. When I didn't get out of bed, he started systematically knocking things off of the dresser. When the only thing left was the TV he migrated to the desk and started cleaning that off as well. When I finally got up, 3 hours later, I realized that he was upset because there was dog food in his cat bowl. After giving him the proper food, I got a 4" pad and some tape from the medicine kit to bandage the scratches he gave me the night before during play time. I think he missed me when I was on vacation. Yes, animals do improve the quality of life.

Thanks for the post today, Jack. Happy Birthday to Sammy (whether she care or not)! Ahh, yes, I do believe in the health benefits of pet ownership. I have had 3 beloved dogs in my life - all offering unconditional love. Now, I am owned by 2 cats - but they, too, are very loving - that is when they want to be. And, yes, my one cat does snore, and while it took me a while to figure out what and where the noise was coming from, I now find it very comforting.

Hope you bought Sammy some extra smokes for her birthday!

Happy B-day Sammy! Norman was my best friend for 15 yrs. He was a goofy golden retriever who loved everyone and everything. He did however have this disgusting habit of sitting in front of you when you were eating and pass gas. He did it with a smile and wagging his tail, hoping that he might have grossed you out enough to hand over whatever you were eating. It usually worked.

Sammy shares a birthday with my dad and my sister in law. Happy Birthday Sammy. My dog is Keely. She is only 2 and she is my best friend. I know just how you feel about your dog. She isn't the most well behaved dog always and she is pretty hyperactive, but to me she is great as well as beautiful. When I get home she is so excited to see me. That is the greatest feeling ever!!

As always Jack...it is always great to read what you write. Thanks for sharing Sammy's special day. Have cake and ice cream for sure.

Happy Birthday Sammy! I wish both my dogs a happy birthday every year! In my opinion, I've lived with health conditions all my life and my life has always felt calmer in the company of my pets. They are unconditional companions!

Happy birthday Sammy!!! May you have a hundred more!! Love this blog. Never felt the need to comment til today. My baby lab just turned 1 and my cavalier just had her "21er". They're the loves of my life!!!

Unconditional love and companionship-YES!

Happy Birthday Sammy! You need to meet Boris, my Bichon. He is a frat boy for sure. He drinks my wine if I leave the room; he steals my dollar bills out of my wallet if I leave my purse on the floor and he is always on his back waiting for his rubdown. You would love him.

Aww so sweet! It really made me smile. I have 4dogs all geriatric. I dread losing them. Happy birthday Sammy!

Happy Birthday -and how sweet. Love the pic! Retrievers are such sweet and smart dogs! All dogs are smart and good though, it's the owners that sometimes aren't up to par! I LOVE that a dog smiles with its tail. I've always had one (ok, usually 2!) A person never TRULY knows unconditional love unless they own a dog. They live to be with and please you! I've had a wide variety of dogs in my life, but since my first one 18 years ago, I've stayed with the American Pit Bull Terrier.Their love, dedication, earerness to learn and please, and love for me is uncanny -and their zest for life is downright contagious! They are such clowns too! They REALLY do not deserve the name they have. Sure, as with any large dog you have to be a responsible owner, but the rewards of owning one is well worth it!! Thank you Lord for giving man (and woman) the dog! P.S. it is wonderful at days end to lie in bed with your dog and listen to them snoring..such sweet music to the ear....

we don"t look down on u coz u'r not boring. . .and we love u for what u r. . .

hahahahahaha

and . ..happy bday to ur doggie sammy. . .

Happy Birthday Sammy!

From Chennai, India

Inch by inch i hear and feel your words. I try not to think when arriving home some day, my sweet great dane not there anymore...
But when he snors at night, in the varanda, sometimes i have to complain:
" Way too loud Armani! C'mon, this way the robbers will know! "

Sweet! Happy Birthday!

Great post Jack! I love my dog too – Marty McFly. He can be a handful (he's only 5 months) but is totally worth it.