In Preparation – Pony Penning 2013

Ammo the Dachshund Helps Prepare for Pony Penning

Every year around June mom and I start training the ponies for a very special trip. A trip to Chincoteague Island in Virginia at the end of July to watch their wild relatives swim from Assateague to Chincoteague during the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction.

As official pony trainer it’s my duty to help the ponies prepare by learning new tricks so they are ready to perform for their week long stay down there at the Chincoteague Pony Centre.

Ammo the Dachshund Helps Prepare for Pony Penning // Chincoteague Pony Boomerang

This year my pal Boomerang will be making his first trip to Virginia to perform, so I had a little chat with him about how he’s supposed to behave properly and not embarrass me.

Ammo the Dachshund Helps Prepare for Pony Penning // Chincoteague Pony Boomerang

Boomerang sulked for the rest of the day, what a baby!

Ammo the Dachshund Helps Prepare for Pony Penning // Chincoteague Pony Boomerang

Another part of Boomer’s preparation is reading the famous book by Marguerite Henry, Misty of Chincoteague. Things were going well until Boomer confessed that he doesn’t know how to read!

Ammo the Dachshund Helps Prepare for Pony Penning // Chincoteague Pony Boomerang

Sigh, it’s going to be a very very long summer! Ammo the Dachshund

 

Learn more about where you can see my pony friends perform at the end of July on the Painting Pony Blog.

A Dachshund’s Art Gallery

Since I was just a wee pup I was instilled with a love of the arts. Not only do I paint myself, but I live with some super talented Painting Ponies! And while you might think having animal artists in the family is quite a feat, my mom and dad are no stranger to the arts themselves. My dad is a graphic designer (who spends his free time designing posters that you can purchase HERE) and my mom is a picture framer (check out the shop where I work HERE).

With a love of art spreading across my family, it’s no wonder that my home has turned into an art gallery of sorts. I thought it would be fun to take you for a tour around my home and show you some of the latest and greatest artistic treasures that are currently making my home just a bit more cheerful!

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

When I attended the Spring Doxie Fest this year I picked up a happy little Dachshund print from artist, Debbie Sampson. Of course mom framed him up in a happy yellow frame that makes him extra cheerful!

where to purchase: [middle] Dachshund Print – [right] Black and White Photograph of Pony

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Back in November mom picked up this cute little dachshund print from Kim at Yellow Brick Home. He kind of has an uncanny resemblance to yours truly.

where to purchase:  Dachshund Print

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

This happy horse head was a Christmas gift to my mom and came from White Faux Taxidermy – and not to worry, he’s completely made of resin (no real taxidermy horses here).

where to purchase:  Resin Horse Head

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Of course the ceramic dachshund my mom found at Home Goods last year keeps Mr. Fake Pony company in my office, because everything is better with the buddy system.

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

These two pieces arrived around Christmas time. One being a rendering of my home by the talented Rebekkah Seale and the other a very special original painting of cows done by the ever amazing Janis Fitch.

where to purchase:  [left] Custom House Watercolor, [right] Cow Painting

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Those cows just remind me of how lucky I am to have grown up in farm country, where the smell of cattle and horses are just a few steps out my backdoor. Not to mention those yummy cow pies!

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

And the last little art trinket is one that just makes me giggle – this sweet little screen printed squirrel from the Land of Nod (meant to be an ornament) is happily hanging on my cork board in the living room. He may not nibble on acorns in real life, but he reminds me that there are plenty of critters just out my back door begging to be chased. Happy Hunting!

where to purchase:  Squirrel Ornament

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

With all these artists and artistic pieces in my home it’s no wonder that I spend most of my life with a camera in my face. Of course I like to think that I’ll always be mom and dad’s number one muse!

I’m always on the lookout for new artists and art to add to my “gallery”, so I’d love to hear which ones you are admiring currently! Post your links in the comments so we can all check out some amazing art together! Yay for artists!

*all artwork has been custom framed by my mom at Studio 3.Ammo the Dachshund

Happy Mother’s Day to the Dog Moms

Kyley and Ammo the Dachshund // Dog Mom

Today is Mother’s Day, and I just wanted to pop in to say Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mom’s out there! Whether you’re a mom to a four-legged kid or a two-legged kid (or both), I wanted to tell you that you are great!

Ammo the Dachshund Super Hero and his Super Hero Pony

You mom’s are the real super heroes of the World, and without you we’d all be lost!

Ammo the Dachshund // Nursing Home Visit

So I’m sending some happy tail wags to all of the mom’s today, even those who are no longer with us. Know that you will always hold a special place in our hearts and we love you more every day!

Trooper Waving // Ammo the Dachshund

Thanks from the bottom of my heart for all that you do. xoxo, Ammo the Dachshund

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund

As you know, I have a whole slew of talents – many of which I document on this blog and one of which is PAINTING! I like to think of myself as a mini Picasso, and while I don’t technically wield a paintbrush – my paws are just oozing with talent! Just check out this video of me painting at the Spring Doxie Fest this year:

Now I know what you might be thinking, “but where can I buy these fabulous paintings that you made” – have no fear, I’ve recently added several of my creations to the Painting Pony Etsy Shop!

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

So if you’re looking for something spiffy and colorful to spruce up your walls this Spring then head on over to the Painting Pony Etsy Shop and check out some of my latest work!

And don’t forget, I donate a portion of my proceeds to my favorite animal rescues – so by purchasing a painting you get to help some animals in need! Double win! Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures at Tractor Supply

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Tractor Supply Company, only the holy mecca for farm boys like me! And lucky me, I got to go on a Tractor Supply adventure over the weekend.

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

TSC has everything, from clothing, to dog food, hardware supplies and more – it’s hard to not find something that you need at a place like this.

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

I enjoyed moseying up and down the isle in search of something to add to my cart, mostly I was eyeballing the isles of dog toys and treats – but somehow we missed that one completely and I ended up only coming home with a bag of horse treats. I’m not sure how I got the short end of that stick.

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

My moseying was extra slow on this adventure, because just when I thought we were done with the crutches in my house (after mom’s knee surgery) my dad decided he wanted to give them a whirl too. So I’m back to playing nurse Ammo as dad spends a few weeks on crutches due to a high ankle sprain and some torn ligaments from playing soccer. I’m starting to think I’m missing out on something by not having my own pair to crutch around on!

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

Mom says it’s important for me to go on outings in new places as much as possible – it’s what makes me a good therapy dog. I only wish all stores were as dog friendly as TSC, because I’d certainly volunteer to practice my therapies in a butcher shop or maybe the Wine and CHEESE shop!

But until that day comes I’m happy to take my outings any place that keeps cookies behind the counter.

Adventures at Tractor Supply - Ammo the Dachshund

I’m here for my cookies please! Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Farm Days

Lazy and Farm aren’t typically words that go together, but when the weather suddenly hits near 90 degrees in the Spring (when it was in the 40’s) it can get lazy on the farm pretty quick!

So here’s a little taste of what’s been going on around the farm lately:

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Lazy Days on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

The farm is one of my favorite places to be, just spending time relaxing with all of my friends. Ammo the Dachshund

Events at the Farm

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Most of you who read my blog on a regular basis (hey guys) already know that I’ve been a farm dog since I was just a wee pup. Growing up on a farm means that you learn pretty quickly that everyone must pitch in and help to keep the farm running. So when we host horse events on the farm I’m the first one to lend a helping paw.

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

At our farm we host slightly different competitions than most people might be used to seeing. You’ll see no pretty ponies prancing around the arena while their owners buff and shine their boots to perfection – nope, we get a little more extreme with our events at my farm. Our mounted games competitions are filled with thrills and spills, as riders race at top speed through a series of obstacles with their teammates. It’s as exciting for the riders as it is for us spectators.

I spent most of my day on the start line, helping dad to watch the finishes and call placings – one of the most important jobs of the day.

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Riders of all ages came out for our event, and their team gear was as fantastic as always (you know I love a good fashion statement).

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

My best friend Trooper was in charge of watching for rule violations on line A.

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

But he quickly got relieved of all duties when he couldn’t keep his eyes open!

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Even my ponies helped out during the event, as they greeted all our guests with a beaming smile.

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Later in the day I took my post on the obstacle course as I watched the riders compete for the jackpot cash prize!

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

I even had to do a bit of coaching as some of the ponies thought our pool noodle obstacle was something from another planet.

Events on the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

By the end of the day I was utterly exhausted – but that’s how life goes on the farm, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Ammo the Dachshund

Monthly Sponsor Shoutout

It’s time for me to send out a little virtual thank you to my very special blog sponsors! Blogging doesn’t come without expenses and it’s because of my lovely sponsors that I can keep the website up and running and the adventures rolling in.

Sponsor: K9 Carfence // Ammo the Dachshund

K9 CarFence is the perfect thing to keep your pets safe in the car. Their unique safety net catches and cradles dogs in a soft strong net in case of sudden stops. It allows your pets to move freely about, while still protecting them while you drive. It’s a must have for anyone who enjoys taking their pets on adventures with them!

K9 CarFence has also offered up a special promo code for all of our readers! Use AMMO at checkout to receive FREE SHIPPING on your order.

You can shop with K9 CarFence HERE and also be sure to like them on Facebook!

 

Sponsor: Envision Event Media // Ammo the Dachshund

Envision Event Media provides high-definition video production, customized editing, wireless studio-quality audio, and graphic design packages for all your video production needs. Based out of Asheville, North Carolina (but available to travel) Envision Event Media is run by my mom’s brother, Taylor Hellhake. So when you are looking for a videographer for your next big project, make sure you check out Envision Event Media!

 

Sponsor: Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting Pony is home to my three favorite ponies, Minnow, Blitz, and Boomer, known as the World-famous Painting Chincoteague Ponies. With brushes in their mouths these boys know how to work some paint! Their paintings have sold all over the World, and have been featured in magazines, newspapers and television. I can also be seen performing with this talented trio as they make appearances at schools, horse shows, fairs, and events. Make sure you check out all their amazingness at Painting Pony.

Get 10% off your entire purchase with code PONYPAL at Painting Pony!

 

Advertise with Ammo the DachshundIf you would like to find out more about my advertising rates, click HERE.

And thanks again to all of my wonderful sponsors, I couldn’t do it without you! Ammo the Dachshund

Missing the Farm

Those of you who are regular readers of my blog know that I’m a pretty active guy. I’m always going on exciting adventures, taking training classes, and generally just running around (boy do I love to run). But ever since Mom had surgery I’ve had to stay home a lot to take care of her. I don’t mind taking care of mom (and the good news is only 2 more weeks before we can return to regular adventures), but I do very much miss some things, like visiting my friends on the farm.

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

The good news is, Mom was missing the farm just as much as me, so over the weekend we took a trip out to visit all of my friends.

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

The Chincoteague Ponies missed me the most, and I missed Boomerang, Blitz, and Minnow just as much!

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

I also missed running! So I ran and ran and ran!

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

I also helped do farm chores, like herding the horses out to the pasture.

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

And then I ran some more! (Check out how much further along Trooper’s new house is! I can’t wait to give you the tour once Mom can walk a little better).

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Trooper and I also did some wrestling. I won as always.

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Missing the Farm // Ammo the Dachshund

Then I spent the rest of my time on the farm helping to brush Minnow, my favorite pony in the whole wide world!

My time on the farm came and went too quickly. But I know soon we will be back to visiting my friends nearly every day – and it will be Spring! I can hardly wait! Ammo the Dachshund

Minnow goes to New Bolton

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

On Monday I arrived at the farm early to take my pal Minnow on a special outing.

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

Mom said Minnow was headed to the New Bolton Center, an internationally renowned large animal hospital, in other words the VET!

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

When we arrived I had to wait in the car, which was perfectly fine with me because going to the Vet is not my idea of a good time anyway.

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

Mom said Minnow was very brave, much braver than I am at the vet, as he got his 5 year check-up for Ringbone (which I’m told is arthritis in his ankle).

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

Minnow even got radiographs done of his legs, and I heard he didn’t even need to be drugged!

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

Minnow told me later that he kept looking over his shoulder wondering when I would come in to hold his hoof and make him feel better about being poked and prodded. I knew no one could be that brave at the vet!

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

Minnow’s radiographs showed how much of a Super Hero he really is – as his bones have been trying to fuse together over the past 5 years to alleviate pain in his joint. In other words, he’s growing a bionic leg!

Chincoteague Pony, Minnow, visits New Bolton // Ammo the Dachshund

When we got back to the barn Boomer and Blitz were waiting for us, and I told them all about how brave our Super Minnow was and all about his bionic leg.

Ammo the Dachshund Super Hero and his Super Hero Pony

And incase you’re wondering about Minnow’s prognosis…..he and I still have many more years of superness ahead!

You can read the full story on Minnow’s trip to New Bolton HEREAmmo the Dachshund