CODIPUP.COM

Welcome to Codipup.com

Jeff Maziarek — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:35:00 GMT

Welcome to Codipup.com, a website dedicated to my book Codi's Journey, a heartfelt story about an awesome dog who touched our family in profound way.

(CLICK HERE to read a PDF file with two sample chapters from Codi's Journey.)

NOTE: For a recent update on publishing progress for the book please see the post that follows immediately.

The best way to use this website as it grows is to refer to the Category Archives box to your left, as it provides a list of all subjects addressed on the site. If you wish to share any of your own experiences in loving and losing a cherished companion animal, or anything else about your past or current dog(s), please click on the Add Comment link at the bottom of any post. It is my sincere intention that Codipup.com becomes a forum for dog lovers worldwide to share stories and feelings about their beloved canines. If you have any questions regarding a particular subject on this site, please feel free to send me an email by clicking here. I also invite you to visit the Codi's Journey Facebook page by clicking on the link below.

Codi's Journey

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Publishing Update – July 24, 2010

Jeff Maziarek — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:30:00 GMT

After initially completing the first draft of Codi’s Journey about two years ago, I was committed to connecting with a mainstream publisher because I felt the book had the potential for widespread acceptance. There have been many twists and turns in the process of making that connection, including signing a publishing contract in the fall of 2009 and then requesting release from the same contract not long afterward for reasons best left unsaid.

As 2010 began I thought seriously about self-publishing, but based on firsthand experience in following that path with my first book I decided to continue efforts to connect with a publisher. What followed from that pursuit were a few rejections over the past six months, along with a contract offer from one established publisher. However, after carefully considering that publisher’s qualifications I declined that opportunity in June. At this point, based on recent input from an individual with more than 40 years of professional writing experience and extensive knowledge about publishing, I’ve decided to go ahead and self-publish Codi’s Journey after all.

The effort to produce a physical book will probably require a few weeks to complete, so I estimate the hard copy book will be available sometime in September, but perhaps earlier. I am also considering the production of an eBook version, and if I do move forward on that front it could be available on Amazon Kindle and other eBook book readers by sometime in August. As soon as I have further information I’ll update this post. For anyone who has been waiting for this book to finally arrive, thank you very much for your patience.

Critical Acclaim - A Story Told with Great Heart

Jeff Maziarek — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:20:00 GMT

“Codi’s story is one told with great heart; you will care about this dog as you
think about your own dogs. Anyone who has ever loved and lost
canine companions will definitely identify with this work.”

Steve Dale, host of the nationally syndicated "PetWorld"
on WLS Radio in Chicago and of the "Pet Minute"

Critical Acclaim - A Touching Tribute

Jeff Maziarek — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:00:00 GMT

“For anyone who has experienced a spiritual canine connection, Codi's Journey is a must read. It’s a touching tribute to a man’s search for a very special pup and the heart-warming life journey they shared.”

Eugenia Last, Renowned Internationally Syndicated Astrologist and Author

Artfully Written and Lovingly Presented

Jeff Maziarek — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:45:00 GMT

"When I was five I lost my first dog, and my mother consoled me with, "she’s in heaven now, watching over you". Although my definition of heaven has shifted over the years, I have never lost the sense that many of our animal friends seem to be more human than many who call themselves human. Some seem to bring a spiritual quality with them, and that is exactly what Jeff describes in Codi’s Journey.

His dog-tale is studded with humor, sensitivity, and most of all, the spirituality that his first book, Spirituality Simplified, demonstrated so beautifully. His joy and delight in Codi’s personality and "beingness" is intermingled with the tears and anguish that all of us feel when a loved one is in pain and we prepare for their passing. Artfully written and lovingly presented, Codi’s Journey is a gift for the soul."

Joyce Naylor, New Jersey

"Codi's Journey" is Awesome

Jeff Maziarek — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:40:00 GMT

"This book captures the dynamics of being a pet owner and the guilt, grief, and commitment that many pet owners go through in loving and losing a pet. As someone who has "been there," it was reassuring that I am not the only one to feel those things, to do whatever it took to save them and, when the time came, to let them go.

Any book that can stir laughter as well as tears is a wonderful story. Codi’s Journey is awesome."

Terri Wernert, volunteer, Great Lakes Border Collie Rescue

Leaves an Imprint on Your Heart & Soul

Jeff Maziarek — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:35:00 GMT

“It’s often said that our relationships help us to define who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we are heading. Well, what this wonderful book proves for me is that when we are conscious enough, we realize that the relationships we share with our animal companions offer immense opportunities for spiritual growth and personal development.

Codi’s Journey will leave an imprint on your heart and soul long after you put the book down.”

Will Murtha, author of "Dying for a Change"

OptiBalancePet Formulas

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:40:00 GMT

Recently a friend introduced me to a woman named Judy Tobey who has a line of safe, effective, all-natural products called OptiBalancePet Formulas, all of which are recommended by animal behaviorists to dramatically improve behavioral issues in pets. Judy has over 10 years' experience as a Classical Homeopath and Flower Essence practitioner. In my first conversation with her I was really impressed with both her product line and the intense passion and commitment she has for her work.

The following summarizes the advanced Dog and Puppy Formulas available from her website at OptiBalancePet.com:

Fears & Phobias - Restores calm and confidence, and resolves even chronic fears of unusual or extreme circumstances such as storms, fireworks, crowds, or unfamiliar people or surroundings.
Separation Anxiety - Safely restores calm and comfort.
Aggression Relief - Gently shifts imbalance, fear and trauma that can cause misdirected aggression.
Boarding & Day Care - Alleviates the stress and trauma that a pet may experience with outside caregivers or other changes in daily routine.
Hyper Dog - Helps eliminate high-strung behaviors and improve overall well-being by supporting confidence, self esteem, and the ability to relax.
New Home - Provides calm, confidence, and a willingness to create new bonds, helping to ensure quick and successful adjustments.
Love Lost - Revives a dog’s zest for life while resolving despondent and/or depressive behavior due to loss of or extended separation from a companion or caregiver.
Training Formula - Supports behavior modification and provides greater patience, focus, and overall receptivity and responsiveness to learning and conditioning.

The site also includes an innovative Remedy Finder, which describes common problem behaviors and the best of the above formulas to address each behavior.

For more detailed information regarding all of these products, I highly recommend that you visit OptiBalancePet.com.

Taken in by the Depth of Love and Honesty

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:30:00 GMT

"I was taken in by the depth of love and honesty expressed in this book. The companionship between us and our animal companions can be difficult to communicate, and I found myself experiencing, along with the author, the transitions and deepening of the relationship he had with Codi. "

Judy Halprin, Michigan

Very Well-written Story

Jeff Maziarek — Mon, 18 May 2009 20:20:00 GMT

“During my high school years I worked as a veterinarian’s assistant, where I grew very fond of animals, especially dogs. As I read Codi’s Journey, it made me reflect on my feelings when being in the room with the vet as he delivered the news that a client’s pet was terminally ill. Because of that experience, I can fully understand and appreciate how the author was willing to do everything that he could, not only to try and save Codi, but also to ensure she wasn’t suffering as a result of her illness. Codi’s Journey reinforces the concept that a pet truly becomes someone’s child, one who truly provides its family with unconditional love.

This book is very well-written and I am amazed at the level of detail the author recalls over a period of years. I highly recommend this book to those who have pets, and to those who would like to experience the years of joy (albeit eventually with some sorrow), that a pet can bring to a family.”

Todd Savitt, California

Unforgettable in Every Way

Jeff Maziarek — Mon, 18 May 2009 20:00:00 GMT

"After completing Codi’s Journey I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who loves animals. Parts of the story did make me cry, and the entire book is truly unforgettable in every way.

As I read I couldn’t help but remember a small French Poodle our family adopted when he was about 4 months old. My daughter promised to train him but who do you think was outside at night training Bon Bon? – Me of course! He turned out to be a very clever and affectionate dog. Back then we had a wall in front of our garden & another at the side. I trained him not to go over the walls. Sometimes he used to sit on the outside wall and look around to see if anyone was watching and jump over the wall. As soon as I shouted "Bon Bon come inside" he immediately returned to the garden. In summer I used to give him a bath and put him outside on a table. I used to say to him "wait there until I return." He always waited patiently. I then dried him with a hairdryer, which he loved.

I could go on and on about my beloved Bon Bon, but unfortunately the time came when we had to have him put down. My daughter and I attended, and when our veterinarian put the needle in his leg he quickly passed away. The vet, our great friend, took us in his arms and all three of us cried like babies.

Thanks for the opportunity to share this story, and, for all the love and effort you put into writing Codi’s Journey."

Babette Herman, South Africa

Let us all Hope We Are Remembered With Such Love

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:45:00 GMT

"Codi's Journey" is touching, sometimes sad, but always full of life and love. Anyone who loves any living thing will value the physical and spiritual journey in this book. And, anyone who has loved and lost a loved pet should read this book to lighten their hearts and heighten their spirit.

On top of it all "Codi's Journey" is a very good read. Let us all hope we are remembered with such love."

Susan Ross, England

I Loved Reading this Book

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:40:00 GMT

“I just loved reading this book. It’s actually the first time I've even considered a spiritual side to a well-loved pet, and I found Codi's comments to the animal communicator to be so very interesting. We know our pets love us, they show us every day, but, to actually hear the message of love from them, that's just wonderful!”

Mary Lou Meader, Washington

Book Excerpt: Introduction to "Codi's Journey"

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:35:00 GMT

If you’ve picked this book I can safely assume that at some point in your life you have had the pleasure of sharing your home and life with a dog (or dogs). Perhaps you’ve been close to dogs your whole life, or maybe it’s only more recently you’ve discovered the joy of having canines around. Either way, it’s likely we share a deep and abiding affection for them.

In my case, the earliest recollection I have of interacting with dogs dates back to the spring of 1968, when my best friend’s dog had a litter of puppies. Even though I was 11-years old at the time, this was actually the first opportunity I ever had to see and play with such little pups. In the few weeks that followed that initial visit I would come to spend many hours there having fun with them, and just reveling in their love and attention. Eventually, I became fascinated with a particular black and white female who always paid me more mind than any of the others. She wound up joining our family in June of that year after my mother finally gave in to my constant pleading.

Since that time over four decades ago, I’ve had one or more dogs sharing a home with me for nearly 35 of those years. While each of these dogs genuinely touched my heart, it was Codi, a certain feisty little Border Collie, who affected me most deeply. Not only was she my best friend in every sense of the term, she also turned out to be an amazing spiritual teacher. While some might scoff at the idea that a dog could actually teach anything to an intellectually superior human being, the truth is intelligence is just one aspect of any creature’s abilities. The dog’s unwavering loyalty, its unique ability to live totally in the present, and its unmatched capacity to give unconditional love even under the most challenging of circumstances truly makes it an ideal spiritual role model.

From early on in my relationship with Codi, I always felt that beneath the fur there was a very sentient being. And, in the last year of our time together some very mystical events ultimately transpired to completely confirm the accuracy of that feeling. Within this book, I explain each of these events within the context of a detailed narrative describing the very challenging journey Codi faced during the final 12 months of her life. To provide even deeper insight into her story, I also recount how she came to be a part of our family and likewise share many engaging anecdotes about her personality and some of her more memorable deeds over the years.

In telling this story my foremost intention is to share two key messages. First, that our pets (dogs in this instance), actually are “sages with fur” who have a far greater understanding of life (and us) than commonly thought. Second, that it’s perfectly normal to feel intense and long-lasting grief at the loss of a pet, and particularly so when that animal served as one’s primary companion for many years. In this regard, I sincerely want any reader who also has experienced such a loss to know that someone truly does understand the sadness and emptiness they felt when their beloved pet passed on. Finally, it’s my hope that such readers come to understand how important it is to fully process their feelings of grief by really feeling them, and then letting them go rather than holding them inside.

A Story of Love and Extraordinary Friendship

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:30:00 GMT

"Codi's Journey is a warm and sensitive narrative, describing the love, companionship, extraordinary closeness and caring that was the reality of the relationship between a dog and her humans. From the text it’s obvious this dog was always tuned into her humans, truly her family, even though they were of a different animal domain. Likewise, the author’s descriptions of her enthusiasm for life, her smartness, drive and tenacity make her come alive as the book unfolds.

Based on some of the stories shared it’s very apparent that Codi’s "work" in life was to continually perfect the ability to chase, catch, and retrieve a Frisbee, and she was as determined as any good athlete in perfecting these skills. Even as she aged and her health deteriorated, she maintained this zest for life, and in the process taught her humans about the importance of getting the most out of life no matter what stage of it one is in.

If you ever have owned, loved and then lost a cherished animal friend, Codi's Journey will awaken memories and reminiscences of your animal companion and may bring on a few tears - happy tears for having owned and loved an animal that loved you back tenfold. You won't want to miss this story of love and extraordinary friendship."

Peter Cunningham, Florida

A "Must Read" for Dog Lovers

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:25:00 GMT

"If you've ever had a canine friend, you'll be deeply touched by Jeff Maziarek's tribute to his friend and teacher – Codi. In his newest book, Codi's Journey, he tells a remarkable story of a man's best friend and the powerful bond between dog and owner – teacher and student – that will make you laugh, as you read about Codi's playful way of teaching the wisdom of the ages, and cry tears of joy and sadness as man and friend prepare for the next steps in life's great journey. You won't want this story to end!

Codi's Journey is well-written, and a definite "must-read" for anyone who has ever loved or lost a canine friend."

Pete Koerner, author of "The Belief Formula"

A Compelling, Heartfelt Work

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:20:00 GMT

“Codi’s Journey” is a compelling, heartfelt work about the unquestionable love between man and dog. I loved the Codi conversations especially, although I loved every word. It truly is a love story. While the loss of such a dear friend is so much to bear, next to all the love we are given, it is little.

What a labor of love this book was; I can imagine the tears that were shed in the writing."

Gloria Wendroff, author of Heavenletters"

Book Excerpt: Codi's Comedy

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:15:00 GMT

"Perhaps Codi’s most humorous exploit was something we ultimately came to call “going Border Collie Crazy,” or “BCC” for short. It all started when she was about five months old, coinciding with the time when we began to leave her alone in the house for longer periods of time. One day, upon returning from a shopping trip that kept us away for longer than we had ever been before, the BC greeted us enthusiastically at the back door and then immediately launched into a high-speed romp through the house.

This wasn’t just a quick gallop from one end of the abode to the other and back again. No, this was a sustained burst of pent-up energy that included jumping on and off the couch, crawling on her belly under the cocktail table, rising up again and sprinting down the hall to the bedroom, leaping on and off the bed, circling a padded chair, then repeating the same process at least twice more until she finally got it out of her system. It essentially happened so fast that all we could do was stand back and laugh hysterically as this wild-eyed Border Collie treated our entire house like it was the setting for an agility competition!"

Written Straight from the Heart

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:10:00 GMT

“After reading Codi’s Journey, I can honestly say that I’ve become a better “dog mother.” While most of the books in this category are funny with a twist of danger or a hint of sadness, this book gives it to you right from the heart.

It’s almost as if Codi herself wrote the book through the author so the rest of us “dog parents” can feel that it’s Ok to feel as nuts about our canine kids as we do. In fact, it’s perfectly normal to have such profound love for a four-legged being that we are willing to leave no stone unturned in order to keep them both happy and healthy.”

Kristen Damolaris, Illinois

Book Excerpt: Seeing Codi for the First Time

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 GMT

"As we left the house, we immediately noticed a small fenced in area with a lone black and white, roly-poly puppy inside it – the moment of truth had finally arrived. I was filled with a feeling of excitement and anticipation, and yet at the same time I found myself feeling sad the poor little thing was all alone. That feeling faded quickly, however, as we approached and saw her balancing herself on her rear legs while clinging to the top of the fence and vigorously wagging her tail. She was simply beautiful in every respect. Although her coat was primarily black, she had distinctive white markings on her chest, her forehead, and on all four of her legs. She also had piercing eyes and an adorable little pink belly with small black spots. As Andrea and I bent down to greet her, the strength of the connection was obvious to all three of us."

Book Excerpt: Codi's Focus on Frisbee

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 22:45:00 GMT

"While giving Frisbee performances, Codi's concentration also showed itself in what some spectators felt was a negative manner. It wasn’t that she growled at people or threatened them in any way; she just ignored any attempt on their part to pet her. Usually it was a little kid who would approach her during one of her brief rest periods. The child would first look to us for approval to pet her, and afterward reach down to stroke her head. In the exact moment the child’s hand would move down to touch her, Codi would deliberately lower her head even further to ensure the attempt would fail.

This was actually a very comical behavior to witness, as her body language effectively said, “Leave me alone, I’ve got work to do.” The person was typically taken aback by her response to their advance, and sometimes would ask if she was an unfriendly dog. Our response was always to politely explain that she was a working dog who just didn’t want to be bothered while on the job. We also let them know she always did the same thing to us in such situations. It wasn’t personal at all to Codi, it was just business.

The fact was her intensity made her appear aloof, or perhaps in some sense a bit arrogant. We just learned not to take it to heart. We knew she loved us. It just wasn’t her nature to express it the way dogs usually do. That love, however, was very evident whenever we’d return home from being out for a spell, as each time we were greeted by an aggressively wagging tail. And, sometimes, if we were very lucky, we even got a small lick on our chins!"

Book Excerpt: Do Dogs Have Souls?

Jeff Maziarek — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 22:40:00 GMT

"Is it possible that dogs (and other animals) have a soul, a higher consciousness if you will? Do they take a so-called simpler life form for some specific reason? Are they, perhaps like human beings, pieces of God consciousness in the process of evolving to higher levels of awareness?

For domesticated dogs and cats as well, is part of their life plan to be in service in a deep way to their “humans?” Do we choose them or do they choose us? For several minutes that evening these questions and others like them raced through my mind."