CindyLu'sMuse

Oops!

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 05:30:00 +0000

Well, I wasn't going to announce it until everything was final, but we're in the process of switching over to a self-hosted website. This week I got serious about finishing up with it, and last night I hit the button to migrate all our old posts to the new site. Somehow because of that, emails were apparently sent to anyone who subscribes to our blog ... ONE FOR EACH AND EVERY POST WE'VE PUBLISHED HERE. Egads!!!

Wasn't me!!

As you know, you can't very well retract emails that have already been received. So I was stuck last night, fretting about how I'd been so awfully rude to have bombarded inboxes with all our previous posts. Lord knows if there were even the most remote chance of being able to do so -- I'd have never gone to sleep last night, I'd have been pulling back all those obnoxious emails.

With any luck, most of them were deemed spam by the email providers and never cluttered up inboxes. That at least would be more manageable. Regardless of which part of your email system they landed in, I apologize profusely to all our wonderful, so-very-well-loved subscribers. I don't know why it did that, and I'll probably never be able to figure it out. A techie I am not!

So now the cat's out of the bag....we're moving to a new site, one with an easier address. "CindyLusMuse.com" will hopefully be up and running soon. No promises, though, as you can tell - I'm not the most adept at this website stuff!

Thank you for your patience, understanding, and worn-out finger from having to click on that "delete" so many times!!

We'll catch ya over on the new site soon. 'Til then, have a great weekend!

Kim and CindyLu, et al

In Black and White: Positive Outlook

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 20 Jul 2014 05:30:00 +0000

There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.

- C. S. Lewis

Is It Okay If My Dog Eats Grass

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sat, 19 Jul 2014 05:40:00 +0000

Ever since we moved to our new neighborhood, CindyLu has been munching away on the grass during our walks. This is not something she regularly did where we used to live. Over time I've noticed - and discussed with neighbors - the irresistible attraction the grass here seems to have for our dogs. Cindylu is definitely not the only dog dining on the green! This has made me wonder, why the grass here? Why are all the dogs so attracted to this grass? And....Is it safe to allow them to continue eating it?

Dog guardian after dog guardian has shaken their head when I've asked them if they knew why there's such a fascination here. No one seemed to know, but all have noticed their dog's obsession. I've joked that CindyLu was just making sure to "eat her greens". The questions were burning in me, I really wanted to know. Today, I stumbled upon the answer, in the form of the video below from Dr. Karen Becker of Mercola Healthy Pets. Thank you, Dr. Karen, for this thorough explanation!

To understand it all in detail, please view the video. In short, though, if your dog isn't vomiting after eating grass - which a dog will do to relieve gastric distress - she's eating the grass because she likes it, it provides nutrtional/roughage value, and it's natural for her to do this. Dr. Karen explains there's a particular type of grass they prefer, and boy is she spot on about that. The thicker-bladed grass is the green of choice in our neighborhood, just as she describes.

I already knew that it would be a no-go if the grass were treated with herbicides/pesticides/insecticides. Thankfully that is not an issue in our neighborhood, especially in the grasses that grow alongside the creek and lakes on our usual walking routes. But it's good to know that it not only won't harm the dogs, but that it can be a good thing for them to eat some of this grass.

Video: Dr. Karen Becker, Mercola Healthy Pets

I had only been joking, but I was closer to the answer than I imagined - CindyLu was just gettin' her greens!

In Black and White: Searching

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 13 Jul 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Searching is half the fun; life is much more manageable when thought of as a scavenger hunt as opposed to a surprise party.

- Jimmy Buffett

Wordless Wednesday: Hump Day Vedder's Way

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 14:58:00 +0000

In Black and White: Sunday Finest?

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 06 Jul 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July!

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 04 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0000

We want you to have a safe, happy Fourth of July. This is a holiday that can be quite stressful for many pets. Please ensure that your pets have plenty of water to drink, and cool, safe places to curl up and hide away if neighborhood fireworks and backyard parties frighten them.

Pull out your arsenal of weapons against stress and fear. Whether you use a ThunderShirt, aromatherapy, a pheremone spray or plugin, herbals or melatonin and L-Theanine supplements, or prescribed medications - you'll want to prepare your pets so they'll feel calm and in more control of their surroundings.

It may help your sound-sensitive pet if you leave television or radio on throughout the day/evening for a consistent source of sound, perhaps lessening the impact any fireworks may have on them.

More pets end up "lost" on this day than on any other! If you'll be having guests, secure your pets in a comfortable room away from the comings and goings. Recommendations for keeping your dog on a leash while outside are of utmost importance on a day like this, when sudden, loud noises could prompt a dog to take off running.

Keep an eye open for any food left out, at counter-surfing level or on low tables, which could prove too much a temptation for your pet. Some foods are toxic to our pets if ingested. There are toxic concerns for any alcoholic beverages, as well. Should you suspect your pet has consumed food or drink that may be harmful to them, call the Poison Hotline Center or your trusted veterinarian for advice.

This holiday can be a challenging time for many pets. With a little forethought, and careful attention throughout the weekend, you can ensure any stress they may feel is minimized. No doubt you'll enjoy your weekend more when you know your pet is safe and comfortable!

Lastly, have a great holiday! It's important for you to have fun, so enjoy it.

Happy 4th of July!!

Wordless Wednesday: Commodities

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0000

In Black and White: Shadows of Summer Solstice

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 05:30:00 +0000

Thoughts are the shadows of our feelings - always darker, emptier, simpler.

- Frederick Nietzsche

Peanut, World's Ugliest Dog 2014

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Every year the World's Ugliest Dog contest is held in Petaluma, California. While at first mention, one might think it's an affair to mock the less-than-beautiful/aesthetically pleasing in the canine world, it's actually held with a more sincere intention. As much as the purpose is to judge, and award, "ugliness" - the contest also supports animal rescue and pet welfare. Some of the contestants this year, though, really should not have been accepted, and not because they weren't ugly enough.

2014 World's Ugliest Dog, Peanut (AP)

Jon Adler, pet parent and #1 Fan of Icky (and now also Zoomer Warhol) previously told me about the prevailing commonality among many of the contestants - their humans are big on rescue, and very often that is the main motivation for them to enter this contest. The winner receives $1500, which is donated to the charity of their choice, and they are offered interviews and photo ops with major media outlets. The latter allows these rescue advocates plenty of opportunity to promote rescue and adoption.

Icky and his dad Jon (Photo by George Nitikin, AP)

In this year's contest, however, and exemplified by the winner, rules seemed to be bent more than just a bit. In the past, there were strict guidelines that limited which dogs were eligible to enter, in order to preclude forced, deliberate ailments/disfigurements in the dogs just for the sake of the contest. These were meant to prevent those who would forego necessary medical treatment or who would allow circumstances to continue, just so their dog would have the "ugly factor" for the contest.

The entry of Peanut, an alleged Shih Tzu/Chihuahua blend, was not denied even though his appearance is of manmade causes. That in itself is, in my opinion, a cause for concern. Regardless of intent, this could be setting a regrettable precedent.

Peanut's mom, for the record, is a wonderful woman with a big heart.

Peanut (Huffington Post)

Holly Chandler adopted a rescue dog that had been abused and suffered disfiguring injuries from being burned. She plans to use the money she won to help pay for medical bills of similarly abused dogs. And her original intention was to bring awareness to the issue of abuse.

All well and good, but I have a few questions. How can you use the fifteen minutes of fame to raise awareness about pet abuse? What do you do or say that people aren't already aware of? What is the call to action? Is this not risking a twisted glorification of abused dogs in the minds of some?

An extreme example such as Peanut only confirms the victimization of those at the hands of people who are disturbed. Whether it's spousal abuse, child abuse, or pet abuse -- we all know it exists. And we know it hurts the ones involved.

What is there to gain by parading around a dog who, in all likelihood, has some pretty severe fear issues in the first place? I watched the video of them winning the contest, and the one where they were guests on Jimmy Kimmel's show, and all I could think of was how terrifying it must be for poor little Peanut.

Perhaps I'm over-reacting. Perhaps I'm just totally off-base and viewing this issue from the wrong perspective. But I don't think the contest management made wise decisions this year in who they allowed in the contest. For an event that is supposed to be lighthearted yet promote tolerance and enable good causes - sanctioning dogs' disfigurements by the hands and/or poor choices of humans is just wrong in my book.

Zoomer Warhol, 2014 World's Ugliest Dog 2nd Place Winner
(Photo by George Nitikin, AP)

The 2nd place winner, Zoomer Warhol, is actually Icky's adopted brother. Congratulations, Zoomer!! We had the privilege of interviewing Icky's dad a couple of years ago - Icky: Beauty Is More Than Skin-Deep. Icky's and Zoomer's dad works tirelessly for rescue dogs by fostering and fundraising for rescues. That's a #1 Winner in our book!

On final note, this is not in any way meant to discredit Peanut's win, which was well-deserved for sure. Nor is it in any way meant to discredit his mom, who is clearly a woman with a big heart and well-meaning motivations. I just think things went a bit too far this year. As for Peanut -- well, I hope he gets lots of extra lovin' and some really yummy treats for being who he is, an awesome, beautiful dog.

Do you think Peanut's history matters? Would you enter your dog in the contest?

Wordless Wednesday: Cruelty and Kindness

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Source: Deanne Blenkle, Almost Home Foundation

(If you'd like to help, here's AHF's kitty wishlist for ideas)

In Black and White: Shake It Like A Polaroid

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0000

Which Part of "Pet Stores Sell Puppy Mill Dogs" Don't You Get?

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 19:39:00 +0000

Ever feel like a broken record? Ever have the sensation of deja vu? How about preaching to the choir?? Sigh. There's been so much news I wanted to write about lately, matters that are near and dear to our hearts, but it was all about pet stores, puppy mills, and whether to restrict or outlaw the sale of such dogs. And it's always the same. It's so frustrating!! Hence my question: Which part of "Pet stores sell puppy mill dogs" don't you get???!

We live in the Chicago, Illinois area, specifically a suburb northwest of the city. We used to live in Cook County, but recently moved. Chicago made big headlines recently when they banned the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores - only allowing for adoptions of rescue and shelter pets in said businesses. We were doing a major Happy Dance here on that one!

Then, almost immediately after, Cook County announced they were going to vote on passing the same kind of ban. Cook County is the second largest county in the U.S., and Chicago is a major part of it. This announcement was also welcomed with much celebration, since the initial concern about pet store owners moving their businesses to the suburbs after Chicago's ban was now moot. Cook County passed the ban in record time, and made it effective even sooner than Chicago's.

There were exceptions, of course. Home-rule towns were exempt from such legislation, meaning each town would now decide for themselves whether they would follow suit or not. Although there were no guarantees, hopes were high that these towns would now be enlightened and choose the puppy mill-free path.

To top it off, the governor of our state, Governor Patrick Quinn, announced his support for proposed legislation involving a statewide ban. He himself shares his home with a rescue dog, and is determined to improve animal welfare in Illinois. To say we in this state were elated would definitely be an understatement. In a matter of weeks, we went from wondering if a ban would pass in the City of Big Shoulders, to the relief of believing puppy mill pets would no longer be sold in stores within our state borders.

Then reality hit. The reasons we've had to fight this inhumane situation for so long came back to smack us in the face. Widespread ignorance of the true conditions dogs must endure in commercial breeding facilities (aka puppy mills). Consumer gullibility for the hard-sell and bs promoted by pet stores. Greed and fear of losing their "cash cows" by pet store owners. Politicians with their eyes on tax revenues, and a history of bowing to business interests.

I've just described those things as politely as I possibly could.

Petland sources its puppies from the Hunte Corporation (Source: Companion Animal Protection Society)

What we have today is precarious, our long-fought-for gains in the fight against pet stores selling puppy mill dogs seemingly slipping away from us. Currently, Cook County is discussing an amendment, which would water down the original legislation to the point where it would be quite lame. And if the county's legislation lacks any teeth, Chicago's will probably follow suit. And this set of circumstances would all but kill any hopes of state legislation.

We came so close.

So why the change of heart? Pet store owners started howling about proposed legislation. And stomped their feet on the legislation that was passed. And are lying through their teeth. They could still have a business, sell rescue pups even - but it wouldn't be as easy, as cheap, and with as much profit as what they've been doing. Puppy mill dogs are big business.

Amish and Mennonite Puppy Mills

Ron Berning, owner of the Happiness is Pets chain, stood before the Orland Park village board at a recent meeting to speak as to why this home-rule town should not consider banning what he currently sells. He gave the usual spiel about how the community wants what he provides, that it would be detrimental if the residents did not have a source for "purebred dogs", and that he personally assists his breeders with the latest in equipment and superior housing for their dogs.

Oh, and get this -- he's recently changed some of his breeders, and was very proud to assert that he now obtains many of his puppies from Amish breeders.

This is where I feel compelled to insert the question, Which part of "Amish breeders are the worst of all puppy millers" don't you get?

(WARNING: Graphic)

(Milder, for those who cannot view the above video)

The Amish are known to be the least humane with their dogs, which they consider at best "livestock". The Grabers (featured in the graphic video) sell their dogs to broker Levi Graber, who in turn sells the puppies to pet stores in Illinois.

The Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS) has spent years investigating commercial breeding facilities, and has compiled a laundry list of despicable puppy millers and their dirty deeds. Ida McCarthy, Chicago Coordinator of CAPS, recently wrote about Mr. Berning's breeders and their records reflecting violations of the Animal Welfare Act. She has followed his business closely, studied his business practices and researched his breeding sources. She can tell you all about the trucks that pull up to his stores. And the sad contents within.

CAPS investigators have witnessed firsthand the breeding facilities that Happiness is Pets has received their puppies from. In fact, CAPS has investigated over 1,000 puppy mills. Here is an investigation of one of Berning's main breeders -

For details: Steve Kruse Kennels (Source: Companion Animal Protection Society)

Despite the spread of considerations for banning the retail sale of pets, or perhaps because of it - Mr. Berning's chain is in the process of opening a new store in Naperville, another home-rule town. And just like the back-peddling Cook County, the dead state bill, and the probable mangling of what had been a terrific law enacted in Chicago - Orland Park and now Naperville, among other home-rule towns, are debating and weighing the pros and cons, discussing and researching their options on this subject.

What should be a clear-cut, no-question-about-it decision, has become one of those "we need to study this" political footballs. So much for progress in Illinois. We're back to square one, having to explain what a puppy mill is, that the "breeders" who sell to pet stores are ALL puppy mills (any decent breeder would never, ever sell through a pet store) - and that it's not a matter of breeder vs. rescue, it's a matter of outlawing the avenues for puppy mill sales.

This is not just an animal welfare issue, mind you, even though there's obviously a very strong argument for that. It's also a consumer protection issue. Just ask any of the pet parents who've joined the class action lawsuit against Happiness Is Pets. As much as these municipalities want to cover their butts and pay due diligence to the interests of revenues, business interests, and keeping their retailers happy -- they should also be considering the fraud that is perpetrated by pet store owners against their patrons.

Those consumers happen to be voters, in case these town board members and congressmen need a reminder.

There is no need to discuss, debate, research, and issue more continuances...pet stores sell puppy mill dogs (and cats and rabbits). Chicago was right in the first place. Those who want a guaranteed (and healthy) purebred pet should find an excellent breeder. You would never get their quality from a pet shop anyway. All others can choose from the infinite variety of pets available for adoption from shelters and rescue organizations.

And the pet stores can do what they should be doing - sell pet supplies.

Wordless Wednesday: Stop and Smell the Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Sure hope you're enjoying the flowers! Which are your favorites?

It's Take Your Pet To Work Week

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

This Friday is Take Your Dog To Work Day (TYDTWDay), an event created in 1999 by Pet Sitters International to celebrate dogs and to encourage adoption. Because there are times when Friday won't work but another day would - and to allow for the cats as well - we also have Take Your Dog to Work Week. (Or cat, rabbit, ferret, fish, bearded dragon...) This is a great way to highlight how great our pets are, how wonderful adoption is, and how cool it would be to be able to work with your pets around all the time.

I once had the privilege of working with office cats, and it was the coolest job because of that. It's amazing how much pets can lift our spirits, soothe our souls, put a smile on our faces. And that's exactly the kind of thing that makes adoption so special! By having our pets with us at work for at least one day out of the year, we're able to demonstrate to others how great pets can be.

Pet Sitters International offers tips for arranging TYDTWDay at your business, you can download these from the PSI website. Employers are encouraged to consider participating in this yearly event.

Click to listen to TYDTW song

So this week, see if your employer will allow you to bring your pet to work at least one day. Even if you aren't able to, though, you can still share with your coworkers a few photos and stories about your pet - and the message about the importance of adopting a pet.

What will you do to celebrate with your pet this week?

In Black and White: A Very Special Father

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 16:55:00 +0000

Today is Father's Day, a great day to honor a man who has been a terrific role model to many a young animal-loving child - including my children. Paul is Cat Coordinator for our rescue. He is a compassionate, dedicated man who gives tirelessly of himself and reflects the best of what a father can be.

Paul shows others through his daily life that a good man cares for others, a good father thinks first of those who rely on him, and that Real Men Love Cats. :)

Happy Father's Day, Paul, and to all you wonderful fathers!

What Better Way to Get Your Kitten Fix?

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Every Spring, like clockwork (or the movie Groundhog Day), the same thing happens. Year after year, unspayed cats give birth to litters of kittens that have no homes. And every Spring, rescues try their darnedest to do everything they can for the most kittens (and mamas) possible. But it ain't easy, folks.

There are mainly two seasons yearly that cats breed, and although it's possible at any time of year - early Fall and late Winter see the majority of births in outdoor kittyland. The majority of those occur during the latter, which leads to a mind-boggling amount of kittens found, rescued, turned in to shelters, taken in with hopes of finding them a home. Every year it's the same.

Adopted 6/14!

As cute as kittens are, their stories are often not so pretty. Left to fend for themselves outdoors, they become feral cats prey to larger wildlife, juvenile delinquents, vehicles zooming down the roads. And that's if they survive Winter's wicked weather.

If rescued, many end up in shelters where the odds are great they'll be euthanized. Those that are fortunate enough to fall into the hands of rescue organizations must compete with a zillion other cuties for a foster home, a forever home, a chance for a good life.

And every year the cute kittens make the older adoptable cats take a back seat, waiting that much longer for a home of their own.

Tank, available for adoption, Almost Home Foundation
Adopted 6/14!

In the meantime, the expense of caring for these tiny beauties can be astronomical, burdening the bank accounts of the rescue organizations. Many are found too young without their mama, requiring round-the-clock bottle feeding by the highest order of human angels. Even the healthiest of babies require socialization, many trips to the vet for a series of vaccinations, spay/neuter/microchip, and health checks - stretching the foster homes to the max on their time, energy, and availability.

Adopted 6/14!

So as cute as kittens may be, kitten season is anything but.
That said, there are things you can do to help!

Spay/neuter your own pets. Should your cat end up outdoors, you'll only be worrying about getting her back inside, not that she'll get knocked up before you see her again.
If you find a litter of kittens, wait. Many people rush to rescue the babies, thinking they're abandoned, when in fact Mama is just off searching for some food. Or gabbing with her girlfriends. No need to cause babies to be motherless!
When it becomes apparent that the mother will not be returning to the litter, contact your local rescue organizations for help. They'll probably tell you they're overwhelmed.
Consider fostering the babies yourself. Ask your rescue if they have a foster program, if they'll take on the kittens if you're willing to foster. That's usually the biggest hurdle for rescues to say "yes" in accepting more kittens.
Network, network, network. Make sure everyone you know, anyone you come in contact with - is aware you know of some adorable kittens for adoption. (Won't hurt to let them know how great that rescue is, and how much donations would help, either.)
Advocate for animal welfare in your community. Whether it be encouraging others to spay/neuter their pets (and keep them indoors), local ordinances that are fair and humane toward animals, or even laws regarding feral cat communities and TNR - YOU can make a difference.
Donate to your favorite rescue organization. You can offer your time and talent by volunteering with them. You can donate items they're in need of - many of those can be used things you no longer need in your home. And of course, nothing says I Care more than cold, hard cash. (Just kidding. Kinda.)
Enjoy special fundraisers! These events are often organized with fun, entertainment, special activities in mind. Have a blast and help care for homeless pets at the same time.

Here in the Chicagoland area, Almost Home Foundation has been doing their utmost to help during this busy kitten season. And just as they've always done, they're throwing a Kitten Shower! Everyone is invited - there'll be cake and refreshments, even a bake sale. And .... kittens! Price of admission? Some food or litter. (Deets below)

If you'd like to donate something other than, or in addition to, the food or litter -- just check out Almost Home Foundation's handy wishlist on Amazon. They make it so easy to help them!

If you don't live in our area - no sweat. No matter where you live, I guarantee you there's a pet rescue nearby with people who'd love you silly if you called and asked what they need. By helping them, you're helping all those cute little kittens. Warm and fuzzy, isn't it?

And to answer the initial question - there's only one better way to get your kitty-fix on, and that's by volunteering to help with or foster some felines in need!

**All kittens highlighted here are available for adoption at Almost Home Foundation**

Reminder: Have you entered the Summer Bash Gigantic Giveaway for Pets yet?

Smile, It's Friday and It's Summertime!

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 13 Jun 2014 18:54:00 +0000

Here's wishing you a fantastic weekend!

What are you planning to do for fun with your pets this weekend?

(Don't forget your daily tweet for extra chances to win -
Summer Bash Gigantic Giveaway for Pets!)

Rainy Day

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

(Psst! If you haven't yet - head over and enter our Summer Bash Giveaway for Pets!)

Summer Bash Gigantic Giveaway for Pets

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 05:30:00 +0000

Summertime is here! The sun shines brightly and warmly, there's green wherever you look, beautiful flowers and trees are blossoming and the fragrance is exhilarating. What better way to celebrate this spectacular time of year than a super-duper, ginormous, awesome-pawsome Gigantic Giveaway???! Here's your chance to win some really cool pet supplies or a big shopping spree at Petsmart!

A few of us bloggers have joined together to bring our readers a giveaway that's worthy of this great time of year. You're probably not spending as much time on your computer these days, what with all the nice weather and cool things to do outdoors. But you're gonna wanna take a minute or two on this one.

Check this baby out - then ENTER for your chance to win!

PET BLOGGERS GIGANTIC GIVEAWAY:

3rd prize: Collar and Leash Set from Karma Collars

(Winner's choice up to $125 total)

2nd prize: Custom Package from Stylish Canine

(valued at $160)

Grand prize: $400 Petsmart Gift Card

(Yes, you read that right - $400!!)

You only need to enter the contest through our site, but I strongly encourage you to visit these other blogs - simply because they're awesome and you're gonna love them!

The Lazy Pit Bull

Carma Poodale

Dogthusiast

Pawsitively Pets

You Did What With Your Wiener

Kol's Notes

My Rotten Dogs

Your Designer Dog Blog

Pet Product Review

Heart Like A Dog

Byrd is the Wyrd

Dolly the Doxie

Cascadian Nomads

That Dog Dancing Guy

Fidose of Reality

Heartprints Pets

Oh My Shih Tzu

Beagles and Bargains

Rocky soaking up summer
Photo credit: Purr Photography

How to enter
Mandatory: Leave a comment below (scroll down to bottom), answering the question "What is your favorite summer activity to do with your pet?"
Enter the giveaway through the Rafflecopter widget and verify that you've left a comment. This will then unlock optional additional entries.

Entries will be accepted from June 9th until 11:59pm ET, June 15th. Three winners will then be chosen randomly via Rafflecopter and notified via email.
Winners will have 48 hours to claim their prize, or a new winner will be chosen.

With special thanks to our fabulous host, Christine at The Lazy Pitbull, and our awesome sponsors at Karma Collars and Stylish Canine.

I love taking long walks, enjoying the beauty of summer!

HAPPY SUMMERTIME, PALS!
Enter to win here (Good luck!):
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: No purchase necessary. Giveaway is open to US and Canada (excluding Quebec) residents only. Giveaway will run from Monday, June 9, 2014 through Sunday, June 15, 2014 at 11:59pm ET.Three (3) winners will be randomly selected by Rafflecopter (powered by Random.org) and notified via email. Winners will have 48 hours to claim their prizes; failure to do so will result in forfeiture of the prize. Participants must read and agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy before entering and participating in this promotion. Facebook, Twitter, and Petsmart do not sponsor, administer, or endorse this promotion. Prize packages were donated by Stylish Canine and Karma Collars, and participating bloggers paid an entry fee to cover the cost of the Petsmart gift card.

It's a Dog's Life

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Oh, the things we can find on Facebook!
Enjoy - hope this puts a smile on your face as you head into the weekend....

Post by Lindsey Jean.

RIP Snickers

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 11:30:00 +0000

Snickers
Photo credit: Purr Photography

We'll be neighbors again at the Bridge... 'til then, much love xx

In Black and White: The Scent of Lilacs in Spring

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Questions About Vaccinating Your Pet - Answered

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Fri, 30 May 2014 11:30:00 +0000

When it comes to the subject of vaccinations and pets, my head spins. We hear contradicting advice, with possible dire consequences threatened for whichever choice you make. There are the traditionalists who decry any change in perspective about what we've been giving our pets for years. There are the naturalists who are suspicious of anything that man has created in an attempt to make life better. And there are those who sit squarely in the middle, confused about what to think and afraid of making the wrong choices in caring for their pet's health.

That middle is where I think most people are, including myself. How do we know which vaccines to give our dogs, which to avoid, and which are questionable without further consideration? What about some of the current concerns involving vaccines?

Personally, I'm very suspicious of vaccines. I can give you two reasons. Years ago we had a dog that bit me - no, more appropriately, attacked me - requiring an ER visit, stitches and antibiotics. I wasn't concerned about rabies, he'd just had his shots two months prior. We were told that the vaccine manufacturers didn't "guarantee" their vaccines, and as such we had to ensure the dog was not in fact rabid. Sigh. The choices were not pretty, and I've held a grudge against vaccine makers ever since because of that.

The other reason I tend to question vaccines is because I, myself, received the flu vaccine - once. Whatever that shot did to me, it sent my immune system into overdrive. I spent the next year and a half sick as a dog with every flu bug that skirted our state...and explaining a million times that yes, I HAD gotten the flu shot. THAT is why I was so sick - not because I "shoulda gotten one". Well-meaning advice drove me crazy at that point. And the fear of adverse effects from vaccines was successfully implanted in me.

So I'm a little hesitant about vaccines. And when I read about this or that vaccine having little true efficacy, or causing some serious side effects, I get nervous about my dog getting her shots. My friend Mary Haight, founder of the Dancing Dog Blog, mentioned to me recently that she was going to be doing an interview about vaccinations - did I have any questions for the veterinarian? After I fired off a string of questions, I think Mary may have been regretting bringing up the subject with me. At that point, the damage was done, though. And I was soon to get some much-needed answers.

In this podcast, Mary chats with Dr. Apryl Steele, DVM, Founder of Tender Touch Animal Hospital in Denver, and National SpokesVet for Partners for Healthy Pets. They discuss the various vaccines, which are necessary and which are not, when you should not vaccinate your dog and the hot topic of titer testing vs. vaccines. My own questions are answered, and more, in a thorough and detailed, yet easy to understand, manner. Cats are not left out of the discussion.

This is an extraordinarily helpful resource in determining the importance (or not) of various vaccinations and vaccine schedules. I came away from this having a much clearer comprehension about what is important for my dog, what is not, and what should be questioned with a closer look.

Have a listen, and leave a comment under Mary's post if you still have any questions or concerns -
Afraid to Vaccinate Your Pets? Vaccines, Adverse Reactions, Answers.
I think you'll be glad you did.

Wordless Wednesday: Object of Curiosity

noreply@blogger.com (KimT) — Wed, 28 May 2014 11:30:00 +0000