PugSpeak Pug Ponderings

Secret Santa Gifts at PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:33:00 +0000

Need a great Secret Santa pug gift? Look no further than PugSpeak! PugSpeak has a huge selection of pug earrings for every occasion. Or how about a pug ornament for the tree?

Drop by PugSpeak today at www.pugspeak.com!

Christmas is Just Around the Corner at PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:45:00 +0000

With the holidays coming up, be sure to drop by PugSpeak and check out our latest Pug Cards, Pug Handbags, Pug Jewelry, and more! Our prices are sure to fit most any budget and our selection can't be beat!

New Fluff Items at PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:25:00 +0000

PugSpeak is happy to announce the restocking of our very popular Fluff Pug and Poochy merchandise and we've added new products: The Fluff Pug and Poochy Laptop case, Fluff Pug Framed Wallet, Fluff Boston Terrier and Chihuahua Coin Purse. And just for fun, a Fluff clutch displaying vintage shoes. Cute and fun! Check out all our Fluff gifts today. And as always, if you have a question, don't hesitate to call (913) 403-8009 or email at pugspeak@sbcglobal.net.

PugSpeak's 7th Annual Pug Parliament

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 18:47:00 +0000

For all of our readers living in the greater Kansas City area: PugSpeak's 7th Annual Pug Parliament will be held on Sat., Sept. 19, 2009 at 12 noon in Overland Park, KS. In case of rain, it will be moved to the next day - Sun. Sept. 20 at 1 pm.

As many of you know, we will provide BBQ and drinks and ask that everyone bring a small side dish, chips, dessert, or whatever strikes your fancy.

Of course, family, friends, and pug(s) are all invited. We have a large, securely fenced backyard for pugs to romp and have fun.

PugSpeak merchandise will be available at reduced prices!

We will be sending out flyers to our current members. If this is your first time attending, please call at (913) 403-8009 so we may get your address and get the flyer and directions into the mail. If you are thinking of adopting a pug, this is a golden opportunity to come and observe the breed, and ask questions. We are honored to have Dr. Shelley Lake, DVM, on hand to meet with everyone as well.

You may also check out www.pugparliament.com to see photos of past PP's. Give us a call and we hope to see you there!

Mary

A Pug Needs a Home

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:12:00 +0000

For all those in the greater Kansas City area: We know of a 10 year old male, neutered pug needing a home. He most likely needs a dental and a good check-up at the vet. If you are interested, please call Mary at (913) 403-8009 or email at pugspeak@sbcglobal.net. Thanks so much!
Mary

Summer in the City at PugSpeak!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:50:00 +0000

Drop By PugSpeak for some hot summer pug gift items! Be sure to check out our pug handbags, pug bracelets, pug earrings, and more!

And be sure to check our Clearance Page for some really great deals!

And finally, we want to wish PugSpeak's Trevor a happy birthday!!

In Memory of Dexter

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:43:00 +0000

C.K. Dexter Haven

May 17, 1999 - July 17, 2009

We remember the day well. It was over a Fourth-of-July weekend in 1999 when we drove to Liberty, MO to bring home our new pug baby. The minute we met him, we knew his name. At 6 weeks old, he came trotting out to us with a distinct élan and a smile that could only be described as handsome and dashing. He was C.K. Dexter Haven, the wonderful character portrayed by Cary Grant in the 1940 movie, The Philadelphia Story. We soon dubbed Dexter the Cary Grant of Pugs and amazingly it stuck! Since his photos were posted everywhere on the internet, I would get emails from folks saying..."he does look like Cary Grant!" I'm sure somewhere Cary Grant may be laughing himself silly!

It isn't easy to describe Dexter in a few words - he had so many facets to his huge personality. Even as a puppy, Dexter was meticulous and fastidious - especially when it came to potty training. The first time we took him outside, he did his business. And that was that. There was never an accident (as you would, of course, expect) in the house. We remember the first time he was about to be ill - he went to the door to be let out. Dexter kept a tidy kennel as well as himself, though we discovered early on the two things he really hated: baths and nail clippings. We had to start spelling B-A-T-H and needless to say, he figured that one pretty quickly. We had to think of new ways of communicating (using other languages to describe bathing) that message and somehow he always knew and made himself instantly glued to the chair! Dexter was fluent in multiple languages.

At the time of Dexter's arrival and before we brought home brother, Trevor, we had a cat named Sabrina. Dexter tried to make her acquaintance and that introduction was a bit scratchy, no pun intended. Sabrina hissed and headed downstairs and Dexter was content to live upstairs.

Two months after Dexter's arrival, we brought home Trevor MacCauley Connor (yes, named partly after the Jimmy Stewart character from The Philadelphia Story. Trevor immediately became the Beta or care-taker to Dexter and the two were joined at the hip, so to speak.

Dexter loved life. He embraced it. He woke up each morning at 6 am raring to get on with the day. Carpe Diem! Each day was full and at 10 pm every evening, he was ready for his 40 pug winks.

We learned through Dexter and Trevor it was easy to give them a prescribed medication - if given with a tiny swipe of peanut butter. Naturally, all the Boys are eager to take a pill because they know it's synonymous with peanut butter. The pill is the peanut butter. And speaking of food, Dexter and his brothers always knew when Chinese carryout came into the house. Dexter, especially, had a yen for rice!

Dexter loved to pose for the camera and out of these photos, PugSpeak was born. We have always regarded the Boys - and especially Dexter, as co-founders and cornerstone of PugSpeak, LLC. Dexter was always ready for a photo shoot!

Dexter seemed to grow up quickly - after we brought Ian and Mackie into the fold - he would join in the play, but would eventually let everyone know when hijinks were over and it was time to settle down. And Trevor, ever the Beta, would herd everyone inside. Dexter always carried himself as a true Alpha - with maturity and dignity. He would occasionally do little things to goad Trevor into chasing him. And Trevor always complied!

We believe Dexter loved music and movies. When I played Perez Prado, Gipsy Kings, Ottmar Liebert, Pink Martini, or Bond, his head always came up and he listened intently. He loved anything by Stephen King - especially The Shawshank Redemption and The Shining. He thought Snakes on a Plane was great fun and was patient enough to let me do a photo shoot called Pugs on a Snake. He sat for an hour draped with rubber snakes and never stopped smiling. He also loved the Rocky and Star Trek movies.

If Dexter could have had three or more people to dinner, he would have chosen: Carl Sagan, Samuel L. Jackson, Dean Martin, Mary Shelley, Gene Roddenberry, Fareed Zakaria, and Cesar Millan.

Dexter had a particularly close bond with his human pop, Lowell, his human brother, Hunter and sister, Claire. And it's important to note that even though his vet, Dr. Shelley Lake, clipped his nails, Dexter adored her! And speaking of loves, without a doubt, Dexter's favorite time of year was Spring! He was the original Boy of Spring! Dexter also adored Kong toys, Nyla Bones, and plush toys.

From the first day to the last day of Dexter's life, he exhibited three special qualities - he was brave, loving, and steadfast. He never wavered when he developed kidney stones and was in obvious pain. And at the age of 6 1/2, when Dexter was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma (very rare, almost unheard of in pugs) and was given one month to live, he never once let on that he felt sick. His oncologists had prescribed a medication called Piroxicam - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to relieve symptoms and make him more comfortable. A month came and went. Then two and before we knew it, we were celebrating Dexter's 7th birthday. We learned that in some rare cases, the Piroxicam can create a remission (for a time). And we were given the gift of 3 1/2 years more with Dexter!

Dexter, I suspect, somehow knew or sensed this and he made the most of those 3 1/2 years. He sometimes was almost puppy-like again. He had fun with his compadres and at our annual Pug Parliament events. Dexter loved to romp with the pugs. We will always remember his 10th birthday - there was cake and new puggy toys and all the trimmings. It was a glorious and most likely his last very best day.

Dexter taught us so much about courage. Dexter came into this world with a pasión for life, embraced the hell out of it, then went to the bridge with dignity and valiance. In his own words: How are the mighty have fallen. Dexter would have at least thought that in his own satirical fashion.

PugSpeak's 4th of July Sale!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:12:00 +0000

PugSpeak is celebrating the 4th of July by adding more pug merchandise to our Clearance Page! We need to make room for new pug handbags, jewelry, and accessories for the upcoming Fall and Holiday seasons.

As always, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to call at (913) 403-8009 - we'll be open all through the holiday weekend! Or you may email at pugspeak@sbcglobal.net.

Have a wonderful 4th and to the rest of the world - a great, great weekend!

Mary

PugSpeak Pug Card to Benefit Veterinary Cancer Society

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:58:00 +0000

PugSpeak has just introduced a pug card dedicated to all senior and cancer surviving pets. Click on the card for more details.

When you purchase a box of these cards - #105 - a portion of the proceeds will be sent to Veterinary Cancer Society, Spring Hill, CA to benefit their research efforts.

Our card features Dexter - senior and cancer survivor. The photo was taken by Lowell Crissman. If you have any questions, please email me at pugspeak@sbcglobal.net or call at (913) 403-8009.

Have a great weekend!

Mary

New African Bead Pug Jewelry

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:19:00 +0000

Since our Pug African wood bead bracelets have been so popular, PugSpeak has added two new variations - one with a gold pewter pug charm and another with a silver pewter pug charm. The African wood beads are antiques - dated at 250 years old! The colors are sharp and vibrant. And we've added genuine gemstone beads including carnelian, blue, white, and yellow agate, aventurine, onyx, turquoise jasper, lemon jade, and white howlite!

On another topic, PugSpeak is making a special offer! We've added new pug keychains:

These wonderful pug key chains feature PugSpeak's own Dexter and Ian. And we also offer a Christmas version. They may be purchased as a single item or if you order $75.00 or more in PugSpeak merchandise, you may select a keychain free of charge! Click on Pug Keychains to view all models. When you place your order through PayPal, simply add your choice by name and number in the PayPal Special Instructions Box.

Have a great week!

New Pug Bracelets at PugSpeak!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:35:00 +0000

Pug jewelry has been hugely popular this spring and PugSpeak's happy to add some new pug bracelets to our pug merchandise!

Our pug bracelets are created with Lampwork beads and genuine gemstone beads! For more pug jewelry and gifts, drop by PugSpeak today at www.pugspeak.com!

PugSpeak's Recommended Reading

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 28 May 2009 18:23:00 +0000

As many of our readers know, PugSpeak occasionally recommends or suggests a movie, music, or a good book we find exciting or insightful. It may not always be related to the subject of pugs, but part of the fun of a blog is sharing information - especially when that information entertains, teaches, or enlightens us.

In this case, we are praising a book, published last year (Island Press) and titled More: Population, Nature, and What Women Want By Robert Engelman. (Click on the title to connect with Amazon.com)

More addresses the topic of population growth and Engelman proposes the feasibility and opportunity of sequentially changing the world in terms of environment, health, and economics if we begin with and listen to our child bearers. Any control, such as it is, should begin and end with the individual decisions of women.

More accomplishes many tasks: First, it gives us a fascinating perspective of historical, scientific, sociological, cultural, and statistical data which illustrate how population and subsequent attitudes evolved. But don't let that put you off - it does not read with the pontification of a dry textbook. Engelman presents the information in an easy-going, conversational manner that's often punctuated with piquant humor.

Much of Engelman's statistical data and research was gathered over a 20-some-year period while serving as vice president for research at Population Action International. Engelman is currently the vice president for programs at the Worldwatch Institute.

One of the things we are reminded is that the topic of population and population growth with impact on economics, natural resources, and health care is not a new issue that popped up 10 minutes ago. Economists, writers, and philosophers have debated and analyzed population growth for centuries and Engelman gives us insightful overviews and predictions from such individuals including Hale, Graunt, Malthus, and Wollstonecraft.

Secondly, Engelman tells us, based on years of travel and interviews what women around the world think. And to quote the author, "Mothers aren't seeking more children, but more for their children."

Cities and towns in developing countries (such as Accra, the capital of Ghana) are listening to women as well by offering reproductive health care. Clinics are made available to both men and women and inspire women to take charge of their lives and future. To quote the author, "The pervasive message is that staying healthy and making life plans are good - and not hard to do." Women are encouraged to decide for themselves when to start a family as well as the size of said family. Who better to know what's best than the child bearer and her partner.

More does not have to be taken as a political or religious indictment and the point is not to attack the reader's belief system. More is designed to propose ideas and possible outcomes based on the past as well as the present and give the reader something to ponder. More is meant to enlighten. And as with any issue, change cannot begin until the issue is questioned and acknowledged.

Please Spay or Neuter

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 12 May 2009 18:02:00 +0000

As many of you know, I am a pug lover, owner, and pug and pet gift business owner (and a former pet sitter). I am amazed at the number of dogs I encounter - pugs and all breeds - that are not neutered or spayed. What's up with this? The three main reasons I hear for not neutering or spaying are:

1. I can't afford it
2. If I neuter my male dog, he won't be manly anymore.
3. I didn't think anything could happen.

Okay, where to begin:

Neutering and spaying does not have to be expensive, folks! Many Humane Society branches and other shelters will spay and neuter at a lower cost. Not all veterinarians charge a huge fee to spay and neuter. In the final analysis, you can shop around and prevent an unwanted litter of puppies or kitties.

Regarding reason number 2, may I just say - a bigger load of rubbish I have never heard! This is purely a myth and one of huge proportions. Whether this is some leftover stereotypical propaganda of the 50s or what, I don't know. Trust me, your male dog will be happier and there is nothing manly about a male dog running upstreet and down alley impregnating every female within a 5 mile radius. Think about how many of those puppies will wind up in shelters and possibly be put down. How cruel is that? According to the Humane Society, more than three million unwanted dogs and cats in shelters are put to sleep each year.

Reason number 3 - all it takes is one time. If your female is not spayed and there's even one un-neutered male in the area, he'll find a way to make a date and she will find a way to rendezvous. You can't fight nature - and unless you are a responsible and professional breeder, you are actually being cruel to your pet. Even if you keep close watch on your dog or cat, you allow them to go through the heat cycle. It's analogous to being all dressed up and no place to go.

I urge every dog and cat owner out there to please, please neuter and spay your pets. If you need help finding a facility to do this at low cost, please email or call (913) 403-8009 me and I will be glad to help research your area.
Mary

New Jewelry at PugSpeak!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:40:00 +0000

PugSpeak kicks off the Summer in the City campaign with new pug jewelry! Drop by www.pugspeak.com today!

Vote For Gilles!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:56:00 +0000

For those of you watching Dancing With the Stars, we encourage everyone to vote for Gilles Marini! By far, he is the best dancer this season.

And be sure to drop by PugSpeak and check out the latest pug bracelets!

PugSpeak To Kick Off Spring and Summer Campaigns!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:36:00 +0000

PugSpeak is planning two major advertising campaigns - Swing Into Spring and Summer in the City!

Swing Into Spring is being launched by the addition of new pug jewelry items: Our new pug earrings feature fresh spring colors, Murano Lampwork beads and Swarovski crystals. Our bracelets include genuine freshwater pearls, foil Lampwork, Banana Wood, and Raku Ceramic beads!

Summer in the City will feature hot, bold colors and styles - with plenty of Pug influence and attitiude! Drop by PugSpeak today to check out all the latest pug gifts!

PugSpeak Earring Sale!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 17:19:00 +0000

It's March Madness time and PugSpeak is making room for new stock!

Our sale begins Sat. Feb. 28 and runs until Sat. March 7. Simply go to PugSpeak's Sale Announcement Page for more details.

Buy any two pair of pug earrings and get a third pair (equal or less value) Free!

If you have questions, don't hesitate to call at (913) 403-8009 or email.

Have a great week!

A Personal Endorsement From PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:32:00 +0000

From time to time, PugSpeak will comment or review subjects not necessarily related to pugs, but important nonetheless.

In this instance, we feel it's very important to tell you about a business we admire, appreciate, and fully endorse! If you live in the greater Kansas City area and own a Honda (or just purchased a Honda) you need to know about The Import Shop.

Located at 6900 Antioch in Overland Park, KS, The Import Shop has serviced old and new Honda vehicles for the past 15 years. Owners Harriet and Neal Dittemore understand the Honda owners' needs - to get your Honda repaired or serviced in a timely manner and without breaking the bank!

We would not consider letting anyone else service our Hondas. Thanks to The Import Shop, my 18 year old Honda runs like a brand new car! If you're considering a new repair shop for your Honda, give The Import Shop a call at (913) 677-2176. For a Google map and more information, click here.

Have a great week!

Big News at PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:09:00 +0000

First up, the PugSpeak Boys have an announcement! They have become uncles! Our daughter, Claire Breckenridge-Jahnke gave birth to Jacqueline Kohler Jahnke Sunday, Feb. 1! Jackie is absolutely perfect and the Jahnke household is doing great!

On the business side, PugSpeak is gearing up for spring. To kick off our spring celebration, we recently got in a new shipment of Pug Paradise Totes! For spring, we chose lime green and hot pink. Check out all of our PugSpeak Totes today!

Ring in 2009 with PugSpeak!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 14:19:00 +0000

Hello from the Crissman family and PugSpeak!

We are ready to kick off a new year with good news and new pug merchandise. First off, we are awaiting the birth of our grandchild! Our daughter, Claire and her husband, Steve, are awaiting the arrival of little Jackie - which should be any time now. We will keep you posted.

On the PugSpeak front, we first want to thank everyone for a phenomenal 2008! We hope to make 2009 even more spectacular.

PugSpeak kicks off 2009 with couple new Fluff items: The Fluff Mod Pug Coin Purse and the Fluff Hula Honey Makeup bag! Check out these and many other Fluff brand Pug and Poochy Accessories today! And be sure to drop by PugSpeak's Clearance Page - we've got great deals and need to move these out to make room for more exciting PugSpeak Pug Gifts!

And we are in the process of updating PugSpeak Pug Cards and Gifts and PugSpeak Pug and Pet Gifts. Hopefully, we will be finished shortly and everyone can enjoy our our new, updated look!

PugSpeak's Favorite Things

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 19:28:00 +0000

Our dear friend, Silvie D'Elicio of Pugs 'n' Roses Kennel recently sent us this beautiful handpainted denim jacket created by her friend, Liane Jesse at Deli Dog. Liane handpaints from photos onto denim or leather. This particular denim jacket features PugSpeak's own C.K. Dexter Haven (Dexter). We are thrilled with this wonderful gift and encourage everyone to drop by Deli Dog!

New Pug Gift Merchandise

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:47:00 +0000

This just in: New Dog-breed tote and pug jewelry!

PugSpeak is please to announce the addition of the Sydney Love line - Dogs Rock! Collection. The pieces are fun and functional! Lipstick-red vinyl displays a multitude of breeds - including pugs - and all done in black, white, and gray. Sydney Love adds detail to design with a black poka dot lining and Dogs Rock! Zipper pulls.

And PugSpeak adds more pug earrings and pug bracelets - just in time for holiday shopping! Check out the latest in Lampwork beads, natural gemstone beads, and African wood!

PugSpeak's November Pugs of the Month!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:41:00 +0000

We are proud to present Casanova and Rebecca as PugSpeak's November Pugs of the Month!
Julie and Giulio Bonzagni of Treviso, Italy, are proud parents of two beautiful little pugs, Casanova and Rebecca!

Julie tells us their story:
Originally from Brazil, both Casanova and Rebecca are from the Nabuco line. Casanova is the offspring of Nabuco's Victor Hugo and Nabuco's Bete Balancao. Rebecca's father is California Dreamin' and mother is Nabuco's Mary Ann Lynn.

Casanova is my clown and he loves to be dirty! If you bathe him he must be closed in the house or he rubs in anything that smells bad. Once at the Piave River he found a dead bird and rubbed on it!! He also loves to eat rocks and grass. He is my love bug, will sit on your lap for hours on end and has the fuzziest coat I have ever seen!

Rebecca is a lady and scary smart. She can climb a fence faster than you can say pug and will eat Casanova's food when he is not looking. She loves to be held, has the most endearing eyes and is very fond of our Keeshond Winston!
Both pugs have a favorite game called Tigers we play in the backyard. I hide and they find me and then I grab them and then it's tiger time. Only another pug owner would understand my insanity for them!

A note from PugSpeak: We thank Julie and Giulio for sharing these wonderful photos of their pugs - Casanova and Rebecca. And be sure to drop by their site -

Royal Pugs

Another New Pug Purse at PugSpeak

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:46:00 +0000

PugSpeak is happy to announce another new pug purse model - and this bag is perfect for fall!

This olive green quilted pug purse features a needlepoint pug on the front and tons of interior compartments inside! Check them out today when you drop by PugSpeak. Have questions? Give us a call at (913) 403-8009.

Happy Autumn To All!

pugspeak@sbcglobal.net (Mary Crissman) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:24:00 +0000

PugSpeak kicks off the fall season with a new pug handbag/tote that's sure to please most every pug lover! This bag is made of sturdy microfiber which wipes clean and looks great.

Measuring 12"X14", this pug tote is from "The Dog" series and features an adorable black pug! Click here for more detail.

And 2009 Pug Calendars are out and available for sale. PugSpeak offers two choices: a Wall Pug Puppies Calendar and a desktop/travel pug calendar.

Stop by PugSpeak today and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or call at (913) 403-8009.