tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81984525906120785142024-03-13T22:29:13.217-05:00Happy Dog LandBilly Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.comBlogger214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-50407782334414797682010-08-03T15:26:00.000-05:002010-08-03T15:27:05.810-05:00Pet Food RecallRead about it in the <a href="http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm220780.htm">FDA's latest press release</a>.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-16569841623066446292010-06-30T19:33:00.007-05:002010-06-30T19:41:51.694-05:00Billy To Headline WOOFSTOCK FUN FEST at the Grateful Dog Bakery in North Ridgeville, Ohio on August 1, 2010<p><em><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Billy will be signing copies of <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/">Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit</a>, answering questions and hosting this fun- filled event. Here's the scoop and <a href="http://gratefuldogbakery.com/newsPage.php?Woofstock-Funfest-2010-53">click here</a> for more information.</span></strong></em></p><p><em><strong><span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmEtOal-YxbFeBd9jYNvs2R5BXNj9EvMDaTVMau6rvNS23TSl4dRxWBBrQFAf9kYB9dXpP1Chn-M1QttxRGj2uNtJXkp9HUT55uvgH1i-6p-eZoiHO-X03_zFjw_17bNTyVtRdssVu-Xg/s1600/woofstock_poster.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmEtOal-YxbFeBd9jYNvs2R5BXNj9EvMDaTVMau6rvNS23TSl4dRxWBBrQFAf9kYB9dXpP1Chn-M1QttxRGj2uNtJXkp9HUT55uvgH1i-6p-eZoiHO-X03_zFjw_17bNTyVtRdssVu-Xg/s400/woofstock_poster.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488731388321784034" /></a><br /></strong></em></p><p><span style="font-size:180%;"><em><strong>WOOFSTOCK FUN FEST</strong> sponsored by <a href="http://gratefuldogbakery.com/">The Grateful Dog Bakery</a></em></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><span><strong><span><span style="font-weight: normal;">31966 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville OHIO</span><br /></span></strong></span></p><p><span><strong><span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Sunday, August 1st from 10 am -5 pm</span></span><br /><em></em></span></strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><span><em><span>We are celebrating our 5 year Anniversay with one of the biggest bashes ever! </span><strong><span>This year we are proud to have as our very special guests: </span></strong></em></span></strong></span></p> <p><strong><span>"Groomer to the Stars" and Author Billy Rafferty<br /></span></strong>Billy, a nationally recognized, multi-certified and award-winning pet stylist and dog care expert, has a new book out called "Happy Dog—Caring for Your Dog’s Body, Mind, and Spirit," and he’ll be signing copies of it at Woofstock. In addition to being a Master Pet Stylist, Certified Master Groomer, DermaTech Specialist and Companion Animal Hygienist, he is a sanctioned grooming show judge and†a highly regarded speaker and lecturer.Billy is also the owner and principal stylist at Doggy Dooz Pet Styling Salon in Chicago, IL. His clients include Oprah Winfrey, NBC News’ Tamron Hall and Chef Art Smith.<br /><br /><strong>Barnes and Noble will be selling Billy's book and he will be signing them. And...Billy will be offering a question and answer session at Noon under the Lecture Tent!<br /></strong><br /><strong><span>AND:</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span>Renowned Pet Portrait Artist Michael Vistia<br /></span></strong>Mr. Vistia's work has been commissioned by Fortune 500 companies, entertainment and sports celebrities and politicians. Mr. Vistia’s lifelike renderings of family portraits, canines and thoroughbreds are on display in some of the most prestigious homes in America. His photos are also featured in Mr. Raffery’s new book (see above entry). He has also done some "Paint Your Own Pet Portrait" classes at the Bakery, and will be at Woofstock to share his talents with attendees.</p> <p><strong><span>New this year:<br />-</span></strong><strong><span> A free lecture series featuring 30-minute workshops on various pet-related topics such as nutrition and grooming. </span></strong></p> <p><strong><span>- Pictures with Merlinda "The Fairy Godmother" to pets!<br />from 11- 4 $10<br />- Pet Blessing for a donation at 3:00<br />- Kissing Booth...Kiss a Boston Terrier!<br /><br /></span></strong><strong><span>PLUS:<br /></span></strong><span>- Wiener Races $2.00 entry fee at 1:00<br />- Dog Races $2.00 per dog entry fee by size. 1:15<br />- Pet massage by Pet Kneads $10 for 10 min.<br />- Nail trims by Designer Doggies $5.00<br />- Variety of Information booths,<br />- Paw print imprints & Paint your own Pet Picture! -$5.00<br />- Free Fly Ball demonstration by Fur in a Blur at 2:00pm<br />- Outdoor cafe for people and pets with Awesome Gyros and Alyssa’s Cupcake Confections.<br />- Canine Skinny Dipping Pool!<br /><br /></span><span><strong>Entertainment will be provided by the band iTex, featuring <em>Plain Dealer </em>reporter Chuck Yarborough & </strong></span><span><strong>the fab duo of BrookeLynn!!<br /></strong></span><br /><strong><span>Proceeds from Woofstock benefit these 4 Animal Rescues</span>:<br /></strong><span>- Love-a-Stray<br />- Fidos Companion<br />- St. Francis Animal Sanctuary<br />- Middleburg Hts. Animal Foundation</span></p> <p><span><strong>Other animal rescues & non-profit in attendance:<br /></strong></span><span>- Golden Retriever's in Need </span><span>- Ohio Pug Rescue<br />- Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue<br />- Skunkhaven Rescue<br />- Canine Companions for Independence<br />- Guiding Eyes for the Blind<br />- Friends of the Park<br />-Therapy Dog International<br /></span><br /><span><strong>Plus:<br /></strong><span>- Camp Bow Wow<br />- JMT Glassworks<br /></span></span><span><span>- Primal Pet Foods<br />- Natura Pet Foods<br />- Fromm Pet Foods<br />- Honest Kitchen Pet Foods<br />- Happy Pet Vet<br />- North Coast Dogs Training<br />- Pet Kneads<br />- Designer Doggies<br />- Healing Touch Reiki for Pets and People<br />- Doris Straka Animal Communicator<br />- Fur in a Blur<br />- Art Attack by Kat<br />- Wholesome Pet Distributing</span></span></p> <p><span><strong>Lecture/Demo Tent Schedule -<br /></strong></span><span><span> 10:45 Therapy Dog International Demo<br /><span>Dolynn Doyle<br /><span>11:45 </span><span>The Ins and Outs of Feeding Raw food to your pets...<br /></span></span><span>Michelle Hall<br /></span>12:45 Billy Rafferty Answers your questions about grooming your pet!<br />1:45 Ask the Vet - <span>Dr. Dean from Happy Pet<br /></span>2:45 Cooking Demo...Nurtitious recipes for your dog!<br /><span>Tiffany Costanzo from Wholesome Pet<br /><span>3:45</span><span><strong><span> </span></strong>Holistic Practices for your Pet and what they do </span><br /><span>Cheri Keller & Linda Mckenna</span><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><strong>Contests:</strong> </span><strong><span>Entry fee is $1.00 per dog per contest<br /></span></strong><strong><span> (Held in front of the entertainment tent.)<br /></span><span>Largest/Smallest Dog- 10:30<br />Grooviest Dog - 11:30<br />Best look alike - (Wo)man/child and dog - 12:30<br />"Americas dogs have talent!" The most talented dog! - 1:30<br />Pie Eating Contest for man and dog - 3:30<br /><br /></span><span>- Free goodie bag with every in-store purchase (one per family). Admission is free.<br /><strong><span>PLEASE NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES/FLEXI LEADS </span></strong><br /><br /></span><span><span>Lolly the Trolley<br /></span></span></strong><strong><span><span>(Sponsored by Natura Pet Food, Fromm Family Foods, Primal Pet Food & Wholesome Pet Distributing)</span><br /><br /></span></strong><span>Please park at Wagner’s Country Inn, 30855 Center Ridge Road, Westlake (corner of Center Ridge and Bradley roads), and take Lolly the Trolley to The Grateful Dog Bakery and Woofstock. Parking at Wagner’s Country Inn is free. Lolly the Trolley transportation will be $5 per family/dog(s) or $2 per person/dog(s). All parking will be at Wagner’s Country Inn this year, but you are welcome to make drop-offs at The Grateful Dog Bakery if necessary and then go park. Parking available for those with a handicap sticker also at the Bakery.</span><span><br /><br /><strong><span>Chinese Raffles this year:<br /></span>Gift Basket from Wholesome Pet Distributing<br />Kong Gift Basket worth over $150<br />Nylabone Gift Basket worth over $150<br />2 Indians Tickets</strong> <span>Indians vs Orioles Thursday Aug 12th. 7:05 Diamond Box(third base line) $117.99 value plus $10.00 or concession stand.<br /><strong><span>4 Admissions to Hilarities Comedy Club in<br /></span></strong></span></span><span><span><strong><span>Pickwick and Frolic.<br />4 admissions to the Cleveland Botanical Garden<br />Gift Basket from Our Gang Salon<br />Grateful Dog Bakery Gift Card worth $100.<br />Gift basket for Felines - worth $50<br /><br />Other Sponsors :<br /></span></strong></span></span><span><span><strong><span>K&W Distributing<br />Merrick Pet Food<br /></span></strong></span></span></p> <span><strong><span> <strong><span>PLEASE NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES/FLEXI LEADS</span></strong></span></strong></span>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-68895518439930086282010-06-15T16:07:00.002-05:002010-06-15T16:10:06.796-05:00Social Media, Facebook and and Dogs<span style="font-style: italic;">Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit</span> and Jill's recent foster dog experience are featured in this <a href="http://www.legallysocial.com/archives/225">entry from the blog Legally Social</a>.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-38327002629507554062010-06-14T10:48:00.002-05:002010-06-14T10:55:27.593-05:00Read More About Pets Affected by the Gulf oil spill.Here is an <a href="http://www.ohmidog.com/2010/06/11/st-bernard-the-imperishable-parish/">article</a> with more detail about the oil crisis and animal shelters in Louisiana. <div><br /></div><div>Read this <a href="http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2010/06/plaquemines_animal_shelter_hel.html">article about Plaquemines (LA) Animal Welfare Society</a> too.</div>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-12080801478539054842010-06-12T18:18:00.006-05:002010-06-12T19:28:33.400-05:00Shelters in the Gulf Area Need Help!We've just received an urgent dispatch from our friend <a href="http://happydogland.blogspot.com/2010/04/our-friend-sam-is-famous.html">Sam and his mom Josie</a>, who live in the Gulf region near Sarasota. Shelters all over the Gulf region and in Louisiana especially are being overwhelmed due to the oil spill crisis and they need our assistance.<br /><br />Here's Sam and Josie's message:<br /><br /><em>Sadly the Gulf is again in a very bad situation. Many families are giving up their pets to shelters since they can't afford to feed them. Shelters in St Barnard Parish, LA and Plaquemines Parish, LA, the Point Celeste Therapeutic Riding Center and </em><a href="http://www.angelfire.com/la3/paws-site/"><em>Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society </em></a><em>(P.A.W.S.) are giving free food with the help of the HSUS for as long as the food holds out. I know there are shelters like </em><a href="http://www.animalrescueneworleans.org/"><em>Animal Rescue New Orleans</em></a><em> that could use food to distribute as well. Any help you can give in getting the word out would be great. </em><br /><em></em><br /><em>Thanks! Josie</em><br /><em></em><br />Please consider making a donation to an animal shelter in the Gulf region, every dollar counts and can help people keep their pets!Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-37637864725122320032010-04-08T09:19:00.010-05:002010-04-08T11:57:41.577-05:00Our Friend Sam is Famous!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0APB0_7hoxLTaraET7oGoKt-1vvPkzpAec5LVAtymUMUR4s8J0ZorhEL9qhJuOhx99Y-Nq9Uo-PGfGplYVGKA0ZkgBUTZlMOGW_FJkKyzTqV3B8hc7OLHKfhZiVMt7ZwxT2_S6ziL68t/s1600/get-attachment-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 271px; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454433054372958082" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0APB0_7hoxLTaraET7oGoKt-1vvPkzpAec5LVAtymUMUR4s8J0ZorhEL9qhJuOhx99Y-Nq9Uo-PGfGplYVGKA0ZkgBUTZlMOGW_FJkKyzTqV3B8hc7OLHKfhZiVMt7ZwxT2_S6ziL68t/s400/get-attachment-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Photos by Emilee Fuss</span></span> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><a href="http://happydogland.blogspot.com/2009/09/meet-samuel-winner-of-week-2s-show-us_18.html">Sam</a>, the beautiful Golden <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Retriever</span> from Florida was a <a href="http://happydogland.blogspot.com/2009/10/week-2s-contest-winner-show-off-his.html">winner</a> in our Show Us Your Happy Dog contest back in September.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />We've been keeping up with Sam and his mom Josie. Today, we are pleased to announce that Sam is featured on the cover of the April/May edition of <a href="http://www.sarasotapet.com/">Sarasota Pet Magazine</a>. Way to go Sam! <a href="http://emileefuss.com/blog/?p=1590"> Emilee Fuss</a> photographed Sam and he certainly looks happy <em>and</em> beautiful!<br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtDUeTqqQgSkg75Ud7Hzw5E3G00NOenInTFWvQkFAVK8U5JsFzzndwqVYueu-nE2Xei1tg-XUoFdpYSpcfJiaeievf_PTH_IU_UlPecwGtkAzU3fDyr-XpvexEmHD4S86CuOPFPPD2tPb/s1600/samcover.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 312px; display: block; height: 400px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457772085274671154" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtDUeTqqQgSkg75Ud7Hzw5E3G00NOenInTFWvQkFAVK8U5JsFzzndwqVYueu-nE2Xei1tg-XUoFdpYSpcfJiaeievf_PTH_IU_UlPecwGtkAzU3fDyr-XpvexEmHD4S86CuOPFPPD2tPb/s400/samcover.bmp" border="0" /></a> Sam is a therapy dog and we are proud that Sarasota Pet recognized his service to the community. If you live around Sarasota or Manatee County, Florida, please check out <a href="http://www.sarasotapet.com/">Sarasota Pet</a>, it's a beautiful color magazine and a wonderful resource for pet owners.<br /><br />Here is the text of the article. For the full-color version, please contact Sarasota Pet for a copy.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">He has a smile that captivates attention no matter where he goes. In fact, Samuel—a two-year-old Golden Retriever who is the constant companion of Sarasota resident Josie Norman—was a winner in the nationwide “Show Us Your Happy Dog Contest,” sponsored by Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahr, coauthors of the book, Happy Dog: Caring for Your Dog’s Body, Mind and Spirit (Penguin Group/Sep 2009).</span></span></span></span> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">Named for Samuel in the Old Testament, Sam, as he is affectionately called, will turn three in November. He has been Josie’s pride and joy since she first adopted him, just three weeks after losing her 9 ½ -year-old Golden Retriever to lymphoma.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“After I lost my Golden, I searched and searched for weeks for another Golden Retriever puppy to adopt, but couldn’t find one anywhere,” Josie says.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>But she decided to look online one more time.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“If I don’t find a Golden today, it will be a Chocolate Lab tomorrow,” she decided.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""> </span>As fate would have it, Josie found a classified ad posted on PetFinder by a woman who lived northwest of Gainesville. So, she sent an e-mail to the woman, who responded by sending Josie photographs.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“The second I saw Sam’s picture, I knew; I just knew,” Josie says with absolute conviction. “Even through the classified ad, I could feel a connection with him.”</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">So, Josie arranged to meet the woman at the Zephyrhills exit on the highway and brought her puppy home.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Like too many pups, Sam, it seems, had a heartbreaking start in life. Two of his siblings were killed by a male dog in the household when the litter mates were only two weeks old. So the owner scooped up the rest of the puppies and placed them in a closet, where they lived day and night—without their mother—until they were adopted.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“You don’t lock a sweet puppy like Sam in a closet,” Josie says.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>When Josie brought her new puppy home, she was surprised that he didn’t cry the first night he was in his new surroundings.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“It seems that Sam learned early on that he had no choice but to keep quiet at night,” Josie says solemnly.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">And then there was the time that the young pup “went ballistic” when Josie took out a broom to sweep. She realized that there was a good chance that Sam had been threatened or perhaps even abused.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“Sam was taken away from his mother when he was only two weeks old,” Josie says. “There were things he needed to learn from his mother and didn’t, so for the first two weeks he was with me, I was his mom.”</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Despite his rocky beginnings, Sam is now “just the best behaved dog,” Josie says proudly.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Originally from Clear Lake, Iowa—a city that made international headlines when the late, legendary Buddy Holly played his last concert there at the Surf Ballroom in 1959—Josie moved to Florida in June 1999.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“I was tired of the wind, the snow and the bitter cold weather,” she recalls. “I wanted to live in a warmer climate.”</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Josie always has been an artist at heart. She is skilled in both pottery and jewelry making, and currently sells one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces with images of cats, dogs and horses in a collection she calls “Spirit Breathed Fire Born Jewelry.” Created in fire-fused dichroic glass and fully annealed for years of durable wear, the “works of art” are available locally at Animals by Nature/Tree of Life Club, Max’s Dog Bakery and Shaggy Chic Boutique and Wet Noses and online at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewelry-by-Spirit-Breathed-Fire-Born/114855953364">Josie’s Facebook page</a>.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>In addition to her jewelry, Josie also creates intricate lampwork beads from glass, a craft she taught herself after watching a demonstration at an art show in Englewood.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>But it is Josie’s genuine love of animals that matters to her most. During Hurricane Katrina, she worked as a Stealth Volunteer, helping to reunite more than 1,500 Katrina families and their pets. The organization of nationwide and international volunteers started as a Yahoo group committed to reuniting lost animals with their families following a disaster.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""> </span>Josie also received training through the Network of Hope, a nationwide organization that responds to disasters, to become a disaster recovery specialist for Sarasota and Manatee counties.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""> </span>On Saturday, June 12, Josie will host a special presentation about the heartbreaking tragedies she witnessed as a reunite worker during Hurricane Katrina when Animals by Nature/Tree of Life Club hosts the Third Annual H.E.L.P. (Hurricane Event for Lovers of Pets) Day. For additional information about the event, please visit www.animalsbynature.com.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""> </span>Training and showing dogs also has been one of Josie’s passions since the late 1960s. And Sam is certainly a testament to the quality of self-taught guidance and instruction Josie can provide. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">While, Josie claims, “training is an ongoing process,” Sam already has earned his Canine Good Citizen Award from the American Kennel Club. He is a registered service dog with the<span style=""> </span>U.S. Service Dog Registry and a therapy dog for the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC). In fact, Sam also has earned a “Therapy Dog Terrific Award” from The Bright and Beautiful Dog Therapy, Inc., a nonprofit organization with which he is registered.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Surprisingly, Sam is the first therapy dog that Josie has trained.<br /></span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“I just felt that it was something I needed to do with Sam,” Josie says. “He has a natural affinity for children.”</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>So, because Sam “loves, loves, loves kids,” Josie and Sam go to Oak Park School in Sarasota every Thursday afternoon to spend time with the special needs children at the school.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“There was one little boy at Oak Park that was deathly afraid of Sam,” Josie says. “He would scream and hide whenever Sam came into the classroom, but he would watch as the other children in the classroom pet Sam and talked to him.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“After six months, the little boy finally came over to Sam last week and touched him for the first time,” Josie continues. “It was a very special moment.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>“I think that Sam has a very special connection with children,” Josie continues. “He lets them know that he won’t hurt them. He loves going to school, and he instinctively knows when it is a school day. If we don’t go for some reason, he paws at me, as if he is asking, ‘Did you forget?’”</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Sam and Josie also have participated in HSSC’s “Dreams are Free” therapy program at St. Martha’s Catholic School in Sarasota and will frequently attend school health fairs, child safety rallies and other events together throughout the community.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style=""></span>Both Josie and Sam are strong supporters of spaying and neutering pets and adopting animals at local rescue organizations.</span></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">“A lot of really great pets are up for adoption, and people should look to adopt rather than buy an animal,” Josie says. “After all, Sam was adopted. Heaven knows what would have happened if he had stayed where he was born.”</span></span></p> <p class="SarasotaPetBodyText" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style=""> </span>Inseparable—that’s what Sam and Josie are. No doubt, it was a bond that was meant to be, one that began with a small classified ad on the Internet that inspired what instantly became a spiritual connection, a lifelong friendship, an enduring love…and one very happy dog.</span></span></p><p class="SarasotaPetBodyText"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Thank you to Candace Botha, Publisher of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.SarasotaPet.com">Sarasota Pet Magazine</a> for allowing us to reprint her article.</span></span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-77377394964055389372010-03-31T12:51:00.001-05:002010-03-31T12:52:50.686-05:00Dog and Deer PlaydateCheck out this unusual playdate:<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GnZSTkycovg&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GnZSTkycovg&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-32033118273093093832010-03-23T13:19:00.002-05:002010-03-23T13:20:40.409-05:00Our Guest BlogCheck out our most recent<a href="http://www.suttonstudios.com/pith/?p=451"> guest post</a> on <a href="http://suttonstudios.com">David Sutton's</a> blog.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-40550336396553966732010-03-22T15:13:00.004-05:002010-03-22T15:19:12.301-05:00HAPPY DOG in the newsWe are excited to tell everyone that Billy will be featured on <a href="http://www.wgntv.com/news/middaynews/middayfix/">WGN TV's Midday News Show</a> on Monday March 29th. The show begins at 11:00 am CST, so please tune in to see Billy.<br /><br />In addition, check out our guest blogs on <a href="http://suttonstudios.com/">celebrated pet photographer David Sutton</a>'s blog <a href="http://www.suttonstudios.com/pith/">Pith and Vinegar</a>. We've been blogging there in March and will continue in April.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-17524955500223395422010-03-15T11:58:00.015-05:002010-03-15T12:36:39.963-05:00Volunteering is fun! We recommend it highly!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCaANoZQU1aLGZZx1DlvVEmgQNnvPBRk-yqsk0u_TGX-Y-tHnIqm2FF7Kuh9HGZ0gjPaz3oP_o8pQ6N66OepItMhJzjIiaag52iTV5pMTDZH9Tl0TxJs2HuOkrSpG_F6wEMvNj0MNFxlp/s1600-h/awl.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCaANoZQU1aLGZZx1DlvVEmgQNnvPBRk-yqsk0u_TGX-Y-tHnIqm2FF7Kuh9HGZ0gjPaz3oP_o8pQ6N66OepItMhJzjIiaag52iTV5pMTDZH9Tl0TxJs2HuOkrSpG_F6wEMvNj0MNFxlp/s400/awl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448915088624370018" border="0" /></a><br />Yesterday, Billy and Jill along with Sue and Jacque, members of our intrepid volunteer grooming crew, visited the <a href="http://www.animalwelfareleague.com/">Animal Welfare League of Chicago Ridge</a>'s intake center on the south side of Chicago. Check out the photos from our visit to AWL and other shelters <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/share/photos">here</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3dzV54tQ8JMOuzaEuaz-MA5W7VglklAW0nTD1G-pSDIG735G8bOquhXRYCCw9BgkKujidcW0KzPoW7IXpE7YJ6EDfZQUBIJ02ZbqnKT5uRaCiz613qxKT47QzHmkpw61yk3kE8dmIUUv/s1600-h/IMG_2739.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3dzV54tQ8JMOuzaEuaz-MA5W7VglklAW0nTD1G-pSDIG735G8bOquhXRYCCw9BgkKujidcW0KzPoW7IXpE7YJ6EDfZQUBIJ02ZbqnKT5uRaCiz613qxKT47QzHmkpw61yk3kE8dmIUUv/s320/IMG_2739.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448911813213605394" border="0" /></a><br />We worked with Diane and her crew, who are all dedicated and wonderful people. We applaud their hard work and were thrilled to help!<br /><br />We walked, groomed and pampered dogs who were on their way the the organization's Chicago Ridge facility for adoption. Photographer Sheri Berliner of <a href="http://petraits.com/">Petraits Pet Photography</a> was on hand photographing the adoptable animals, which include rabbits, cats and dogs. Sheri's photographs help the AWL publicize the animals.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kkhG_JV8iHW-CeKwETXd2cj_qmDBgjXQqrEhxWboBuLZovwsEjWSYqMX15_wEe5PIB_fM1AmODzzao_JasJJUmQB4XozjHblE0Zp48xIBgeWabQijoRGjAhLCKK6yKeWf4HudnlHRN5g/s1600-h/IMG_2725.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kkhG_JV8iHW-CeKwETXd2cj_qmDBgjXQqrEhxWboBuLZovwsEjWSYqMX15_wEe5PIB_fM1AmODzzao_JasJJUmQB4XozjHblE0Zp48xIBgeWabQijoRGjAhLCKK6yKeWf4HudnlHRN5g/s320/IMG_2725.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448912433945378722" border="0" /></a>BEFORE<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoA4I-caVoDb6auITQzOynHaF0gw52jQTDBGelmRHJz56QCgPFwImAvpWG22BF624kv8fHZChNgNwnSvbQ4miKNUDYUKiU2pDh04k-OluRrvNPph38lfI3Xx8mnn1HBtcnlcgU1f4XJk5/s1600-h/IMG_2738.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoA4I-caVoDb6auITQzOynHaF0gw52jQTDBGelmRHJz56QCgPFwImAvpWG22BF624kv8fHZChNgNwnSvbQ4miKNUDYUKiU2pDh04k-OluRrvNPph38lfI3Xx8mnn1HBtcnlcgU1f4XJk5/s320/IMG_2738.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448912447242182898" border="0" /></a>AFTER<br /></div><br />Volunteering at a local shelter is a wonderful way to get hands on experience with animals. While you are making them feel good, we guarantee that you won't be able to wipe the smile off your face knowing you brought comfort and love to a homeless animal.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34lF7YAMwpS43tTwJ1JR5jyHijoALb1Ikm-Hv-Wj0LSYgOWNvE1AxH96lj_D6Ho-hzKuvYjKr9-rG5Hiy8wBGOjvI1zxEw_eLNWNmrqY-uCGnNzakSo5XfoGk9eAymZkl7Ci0jYsXOWLK/s1600-h/IMG_2722.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34lF7YAMwpS43tTwJ1JR5jyHijoALb1Ikm-Hv-Wj0LSYgOWNvE1AxH96lj_D6Ho-hzKuvYjKr9-rG5Hiy8wBGOjvI1zxEw_eLNWNmrqY-uCGnNzakSo5XfoGk9eAymZkl7Ci0jYsXOWLK/s320/IMG_2722.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448911837185198514" border="0" /></a><br />A dog is much more adoptable if she looks like a pet rather than a grubby street dog. Every time we groom a shelter dog, we can see and feel the dog's relief when all the old fur and dirt come off. Moreover, the interaction and attention from a caring human lifts the dog's spirits, making her more attractive to potential adopters. Many of these dogs have never been properly cared for, and a gentle grooming session can gain their trust and keep them relaxed when they meet potential adopters. <p>You don't need to be a professional groomer to make a difference in a dog's life. Most of our grooming crew are regular people who have learned to bathe and brush the dogs. Everything you need to know to learn to pamper shelter dogs and your pooch, is in our book <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit.</span></a><br /></p><p>Start reading and volunteering! If you have any questions, send them in and Billy will answer them.</p>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-41320285833355210152010-03-06T16:50:00.002-06:002010-03-06T16:52:21.710-06:00A Cute Pooch To Make You Smile Today<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMxOXuNvrh3a5Dr4kldUROTCEsJFzF9SZLKFLmEnE5gR8VZO8uqa7AB4q2CLitHhGE9b8jyzlWXB3QXz1r8RWalKaosKKZG599BsoHbxFYjnVylEVazdN6bLJ_-ymArsxAtPFpqzi9xLjJ/s1600-h/Mad+Dog.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMxOXuNvrh3a5Dr4kldUROTCEsJFzF9SZLKFLmEnE5gR8VZO8uqa7AB4q2CLitHhGE9b8jyzlWXB3QXz1r8RWalKaosKKZG599BsoHbxFYjnVylEVazdN6bLJ_-ymArsxAtPFpqzi9xLjJ/s400/Mad+Dog.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445657345280233090" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here's Maxine from California. She loves playing in the dog park.</div>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-50492346301010814922010-02-18T11:04:00.004-06:002010-02-18T11:13:31.230-06:00Anyone who has a dog can relate to this fun video...... well, maybe not people who share their lives with a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peruvian_Hairless_Dog">Peruvian Inca Orchid</a> or a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Hairless_Dog">Xoloitzcuintli</a>.<br /><br />The singer songwriter is groomer Randi Breese from Ohio.<br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fBYtCmJFrm4&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fBYtCmJFrm4&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-79858497684241815902010-01-20T09:19:00.015-06:002010-01-21T12:56:47.784-06:00Happy Dog Story: Lil' Bit Joins the Family<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVj0N8JXQ5VX0Ts_wcv5MLY_wiQaiRdBnvBXjkVVqbdfW4e-xhBq3fVKPy82mpjLUb4938WMv4ThSvIBCcmPyxWE6iyUsQdi1Jt4NjYE3ZrjofwjyZ9HNVkZfS-xQNmd14QI9ryhHkZcso/s1600-h/wolf1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428842994033235154" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVj0N8JXQ5VX0Ts_wcv5MLY_wiQaiRdBnvBXjkVVqbdfW4e-xhBq3fVKPy82mpjLUb4938WMv4ThSvIBCcmPyxWE6iyUsQdi1Jt4NjYE3ZrjofwjyZ9HNVkZfS-xQNmd14QI9ryhHkZcso/s400/wolf1.jpg" border="0" /></a>Meet Lil' Bit, the cute Pit Bull mix pictured above enjoying a snooze on the couch. Lil' Bit's mom Sheri recently shared her story with us and we are pleased to share it with you.<br /><br />Sheri is an area representative of <a href="http://dogsdeservebetter.org/index.html">Dogs Deserve Better</a>, a wonderful non-profit organization that raises awareness about chained and penned dogs and helps rescue and place them in homes.<br /><br />As a small pup, Lil' Bit and another Pit Bull mix puppy were rescued from being chained outdoors in Nashville, Tennessee. Sheri received an email looking for foster homes for the pups. Sheri, however, already shared her home with two happy senior pooches: Shea, a 10 year old Rottweiler, and Max, her 7 year old son. Being seniors, Shea and Max were set in their ways and were not always pleased to welcome other dogs. Sheri was, therefore, hesitant about offering to foster one of the pups.<br /><br />After seeing Lil' Bit's photo and visiting her in Nashville, Sheri was hooked. "It was love at first sight!" she reports. Sheri brought Lil' Bit home and introduced her to Shea and Max, slowly and safely. Although Shea and Max "were not overly thrilled at first, now they are best buddies." Lil' Bit has found her forever home!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-xZ2byNwNdM-48YR7FAFTGABjguGqFByfRiFtvBKTO4LN4VqAf2xzyAGlQyCOlAtno1APj_YTDkpJTf99k1h_4wVRQvpYEO7HDFWgzFH3RYM1RQZPgDLUPbmVjXefryQ2xrYZoULShbg/s1600-h/wolf2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428842995811472978" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-xZ2byNwNdM-48YR7FAFTGABjguGqFByfRiFtvBKTO4LN4VqAf2xzyAGlQyCOlAtno1APj_YTDkpJTf99k1h_4wVRQvpYEO7HDFWgzFH3RYM1RQZPgDLUPbmVjXefryQ2xrYZoULShbg/s400/wolf2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Max, Shea and Lil' Bit relaxing together</span><br /></div><br />Sheri is overjoyed with Shea and Max's acceptance of their new sister. "Lil' Bit will jump on them and aggravate them, and they snarl and growl, but they have never hurt her." Sheri writes. "They all play so well. Shea and Max are probably not as happy as Lil' Bit, but she is certainly happy to be loved, played with, cared for, and not have to be chained another day in her life!"<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZvXsWauT2xV6A5edmOk7E1w1aOzEPwC3f7ze-F52EGra7dQheHBUoXyylmQiV4rxolqkAEVWyeFnoE9Yf975nVT39j9Idy4VAY299EtqwKVrf4ViiUfFaOTNJHI5ebLm5bWSoswiyEAd/s1600-h/wolf3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428843005304624018" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZvXsWauT2xV6A5edmOk7E1w1aOzEPwC3f7ze-F52EGra7dQheHBUoXyylmQiV4rxolqkAEVWyeFnoE9Yf975nVT39j9Idy4VAY299EtqwKVrf4ViiUfFaOTNJHI5ebLm5bWSoswiyEAd/s400/wolf3.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lil' Bit playing with Shea</span><br /></div><br />We are pleased to hear that another homeless pooch has found a wonderful loving home. Sheri thanks for sharing your story with everyone in Happy Dog Land!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">We'd love to hear your story too. To share your story, </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.happydogland.com/share/">click here</a><span style="font-style: italic;">.</span>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-79588249290072991332010-01-11T08:36:00.026-06:002010-01-21T13:02:14.977-06:00Meet Shabba, A Lucky Pooch Reunited With His Mom After A Fire<div align="left">Today, we are pleased to share a lovely story from Beverly, a dedicated dog mom. Meet Shabba, Beverly's beautiful four year old 96 pound Japanese Akita. </div><div align="left"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzTSr4UGQWSCxz0-d7XPLsRqemuLG6njWuirpI66CLsiLDx6r6q0cEq9DpzwJA-ALxEk8uXgPHRKtoQWWh2fub_5D6fYZcwhlnNu5ErOs-3FuzGjFbM5Xrep5ysTujaU4GX8n90zXEDF0/s1600-h/shabbah3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425491887817473906" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzTSr4UGQWSCxz0-d7XPLsRqemuLG6njWuirpI66CLsiLDx6r6q0cEq9DpzwJA-ALxEk8uXgPHRKtoQWWh2fub_5D6fYZcwhlnNu5ErOs-3FuzGjFbM5Xrep5ysTujaU4GX8n90zXEDF0/s400/shabbah3.JPG" border="0" /></a> In in late November 2008, Beverly's house burned in a fire. Shabba survived the fire by hiding in the back of the yard. On the night of the fire, however, he stepped in a gopher hole and injured his ACL. Tragically, Shabba's pal Sassy, a little red Shiba Inu (pictured below playing with Shabba), passed away after being overcome by smoke.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425491898792480978" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTf-Y3Zc5em_3F3c1bT1hBwNLnbnF4SBzq-2AN-G3Qw1_jtAFD35EXsxy5XmVm5CuETq4xt9SeQ38-KSHLWnkTxMGAdbGGfZUIT6QgVJY0DPC919V_G0Wdnk5l5zyjm0I5vCwhUn4SOfR4/s400/shabbah4.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="left">Unfortunately, Beverly's temporary housing did not allow pets and Shabba lived with a caretaker. Shabba's ACL was recovering quite well until his caretaker moved him into an open dirt lot behind a 12 ft fence. As dogs walked by the fence, Shabba jousted with them, which aggravated his ACL. In addition, Shabba suffered from severe flea bite dermatitis. As Beverly noted, "My dog was simply not in a good place." </p><p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pDt93InbF_PMecKClWHEYQsR8KVrQHxb0uj1r8RcC3V3LaTtux9G8X-7Mm2o7qHrBuvAzb-7ZKB01SCrxSJ1YPmsgE-ZcDoYH1SEkaoMNBimQP-MLUP0eXB7exFWpU1LXMu6s_8NynfN/s1600-h/shabbah1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px; display: block; height: 400px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425509211671582882" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pDt93InbF_PMecKClWHEYQsR8KVrQHxb0uj1r8RcC3V3LaTtux9G8X-7Mm2o7qHrBuvAzb-7ZKB01SCrxSJ1YPmsgE-ZcDoYH1SEkaoMNBimQP-MLUP0eXB7exFWpU1LXMu6s_8NynfN/s400/shabbah1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Happily, Beverly and Shabba were reunited in May 2009! They now live in a new home with a nice yard and Shabba is no longer living outside. As Beverly reports, Shabba is now once again a happy dog. "He loves looking out the windows with views of three streets and sleeps at my door like he is on sentry duty." In addition, canine aspirin and glucosamine have increased Shabba's mobility.<br /><br />Beverly and Shabba enjoy two daily 20 minutes walks together. Of course, Beverly does not allow him to taunt any dogs that are locked behind fences. "It's just not a nice or neighborly thing to do," she adds.<br /><br />We are so pleased that Shabba and Beverly are happy together again! Beverly, thank you for sharing your story with everyone in Happy Dog Land! </p><p><em>We'd love to hear your happy dog story too! Here's how to <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/share/">share your story</a>.</em></p>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-48859347847959603582010-01-10T22:06:00.005-06:002010-01-10T22:25:39.468-06:00Cute Holiday PoochesWhen we receive photos of our Happy Dog Land furry friends, we like to share. Here's a few we just received.<br /><br />Abbie Bella from Alabama is enjoying her first Christmas. We're certain that Santa left her lots of presents!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HyfYR7R7USR7tX4sz-RBAl6XmJ_uNlWtwFJrmROZ_eZs0lUL5mNwsxJn8fI4yLji2C4lPUIcapgB2t_CQA0cjf_jVGRipxbeYtaSbdQ9G3fVDABGHOKibpRttVnNvdzWgXrddLUlL36r/s1600-h/abbie+xmas.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 224px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425330005426708834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HyfYR7R7USR7tX4sz-RBAl6XmJ_uNlWtwFJrmROZ_eZs0lUL5mNwsxJn8fI4yLji2C4lPUIcapgB2t_CQA0cjf_jVGRipxbeYtaSbdQ9G3fVDABGHOKibpRttVnNvdzWgXrddLUlL36r/s400/abbie+xmas.JPG" /></a> Even champions let their hair down--especially when it snows. Yoshi playing outside in New Jersey. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qL3GmRI2yIvJ_8tfQiRz0SNs0RoTyoJ-_D8HlbjjrDC8cENeQiJVkRqv57Ff8wfhGi51CIeMAtxhKO22VX4f7cpOJZxErSrLKpmF7-v5plJE4v5orXzf1tnBl1BnJ_VwpZ8qNPbJl7Xf/s1600-h/yoshi1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 332px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425330010138253618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qL3GmRI2yIvJ_8tfQiRz0SNs0RoTyoJ-_D8HlbjjrDC8cENeQiJVkRqv57Ff8wfhGi51CIeMAtxhKO22VX4f7cpOJZxErSrLKpmF7-v5plJE4v5orXzf1tnBl1BnJ_VwpZ8qNPbJl7Xf/s400/yoshi1.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4ASsLJLPoew0YnL7TJinUslOj8nJ1TRF8jcAUB_nk3bFbD07KGLFExjk7xzz8ZXUfCWsqRgzhjfyu_THYbbSPSPRt3ilQ6lsYaIOaPfMGpZjS5nfevYCcBpAfz3vuwpfskLX9HPCclNI/s1600-h/yoshi2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 263px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425330016261892370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4ASsLJLPoew0YnL7TJinUslOj8nJ1TRF8jcAUB_nk3bFbD07KGLFExjk7xzz8ZXUfCWsqRgzhjfyu_THYbbSPSPRt3ilQ6lsYaIOaPfMGpZjS5nfevYCcBpAfz3vuwpfskLX9HPCclNI/s400/yoshi2.jpg" /></a></p><p></p>Send us your photos and we'll share them with everyone in Happy Dog Land.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-14099482200886591212010-01-06T20:33:00.007-06:002010-01-06T20:39:16.291-06:00Why Are (most) Dog Owners Great? Let Us Count the WaysWashington Post colunist <a href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/ezra-klein/about-ezra-klein.html">Ezra Klein</a> offered some thoughtful words this week on <a href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/ezra-klein/2010/01/why_dog_owners_make_the_best_c.html">Why Dog Owner's Make the Best Citizens</a>.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-36338069279288053952010-01-05T12:44:00.003-06:002010-01-05T12:47:26.320-06:00Hero Dog Saves 11 year old boyWow!! <a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Retriever+saves+year+from+cougar+attack+Boston/2401815/story.html">This is quite a story</a> about a family's Golden Retriever who saved the 11 year old son from a cougar attack. What's truly remarkable is that the after sustaining serious injuries from the cougar attack, the dog checked to see if the child was safe before collapsing.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-79656608520703143572010-01-01T11:28:00.003-06:002010-01-01T11:37:44.886-06:00Steve Dale's 2010 Pet Resolutions Rock<a href="http://www.stevedalepetworld.com/">Steve Dale</a> is a nationally syndicated journalist, animal advocate and all around great guy. <a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/steve-dale-pet-world/">Steve's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Chicagonow</span>.com</a> column covers the myriad issues related to pets and animals. His work is sometimes serious, funny, sad or controversial, but always insightful and interesting.<br /><br />Steve's <a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/steve-dale-pet-world/2009/12/top-10-resolutions-for-pets-for-2010.html">Top-10 Resolutions for Pets for 2010</a> caught our eye today and we think you should check it out too.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-61952019294219004742009-12-25T09:04:00.004-06:002009-12-25T09:21:41.795-06:00Beloved Pet Helps Abused WomanHere's a <a href="http://www.pawnation.com/2009/12/23/womans-pet-bunny-is-her-angel/?icid=mainmaindl3link4http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pawnation.com%2F2009%2F12%2F23%2Fwomans-pet-bunny-is-her-angel%2F">heartwarming story</a> of the human-animal bond.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/pets/2009-12-15-pet-talk-rabbit_N.htm">After suffering years of physical abuse, a Missouri woman took only her pet rabbit Ruby Angel when she escaped her abusive partner.</a> The woman and rabbit lived on the streets for a time. Eventually, the woman found a place in a shelter and the <a href="http://www.hrsmostl.org/index.html">House Rabbit Society of St. Louis</a> began fostering Ruby Angel.<br /><br />Now, the folks at the House Rabbit Society are not only helping Ruby Angel with cancer surgery, they are helping the homeless shelter and its residents.<br /><br />You too can help the rabbit and the homeless women. <a href="http://www.hrsmostl.org/a-christmas-message.html">Here's how</a>.Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-40772267192674184462009-12-20T09:15:00.003-06:002009-12-20T10:10:53.173-06:00Social Networking Means More Puppy Porn!Here at Happy Dog Land, we looooooooove social networking. Both Jill and Billy are inveterate <a href="http://www.facebook.com/search/?ref=search&q=happydogland&init=quick#/group.php?gid=42285294365&ref=ts">Facebook</a>-heads, and we can <a href="http://twitter.com/happydogland">tweet</a> with the best of them. With that backround, we were pleased to see that folks are using social networking to do the very most <em>important </em>things. No, we're not talking about the overthrow of repressive regimes, we're talking about sharing adorable pictures of dogs! See the <a href="http://twitter.com/search?q=%23puppyporn#search?q=%23puppyporn">#puppyporn</a> hashtag on twitter for details. So cute!Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-81828938202383246692009-12-11T10:05:00.006-06:002009-12-11T10:13:01.884-06:00Most Clever Music Video of All Time!!This this THE BEST MUSIC VIDEO EVER and the song is good too! We salute the musicians of <a href="http://www.youscreamiscream.com/">You Scream I Scream</a> for making the video to promote adoption and help animals in need! Check out the <a href="http://www.youscreamiscream.com/">band's website</a> too.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/B6C6YCTNqVo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/B6C6YCTNqVo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Thanks to our friend <a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/steve-dale-pet-world/">Steve Dale</a> for posting this on his blog for us to find!Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-48320946783281690372009-12-10T13:00:00.013-06:002009-12-10T13:33:13.114-06:00C'MON MAN!!: The Canine VersionTired of wagging their tongues solely with the four-legged set, Shadow and Arthur (notwithstanding Billy's lack of enthusiasm for sports) requested that we begin our own Happy Dog Land version of "C'MON MAN!!" from <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espntv/espnShow?showID=FBML">ESPN's Monday Night Countdown</a>. During the show's wildly popular "C'MON MAN!!" segment, Chris Berman, Keyshawn Johnson, Chris Carter, Tom Jackson and Mike Ditka highlight the most boneheaded plays of the week.<br /><br />The St. Petersburg (FL) Times brings us <a href="http://www.tampabay.com/news/humaninterest/article1056121.ece">the story of Cody</a> the convenience store pooch. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX4MoxaeKo50QLG5qogX9dI1OITlN-xuaf_lMHfJELY8ywS8r9EXq1s-B1GYGJ_FaHvXnDJAoPIr9S8P8dMtBl5o8SmXn4haaBca12e9YEI5vuE1UXeKgb8-P9tcOMpC5QER_AUntKZii/s1600-h/cody.jpg"><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 212px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413691428339958946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX4MoxaeKo50QLG5qogX9dI1OITlN-xuaf_lMHfJELY8ywS8r9EXq1s-B1GYGJ_FaHvXnDJAoPIr9S8P8dMtBl5o8SmXn4haaBca12e9YEI5vuE1UXeKgb8-P9tcOMpC5QER_AUntKZii/s400/cody.jpg" /></a> For months, the friendly and courteous Lab greeted customer's at his dad's shop and was loved by all. That is, until the drat state health inspector showed up and proclaimed "no dogs allowed" despite the fact that all food for sale was wrapped and sealed. </p><p>Cody brought joy and happiness to people throughout the day and now he's forced to stay at home. All we can say is..... </p><p><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>C'MON MAN!!!!</strong></span></p>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-68148947283723981302009-12-03T09:56:00.062-06:002009-12-03T13:59:30.539-06:00Ask Billy: When Should I Neuter My Male Dog?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYlKTw9hg6_O7OrOlD8Ds28ZT-4AHNR-z6TfSe7Lo4WgID-jaxm2smgnIOkkVS6Ei4mwkF8CK2aLU7jm3Z200f6wy4vkjPtHKF96hjBPIDdLABAnW6IQcewoAs7lp_8ZrvOtqUNkCpWdo/s1600-h/oscar.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 278px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411041989781164658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYlKTw9hg6_O7OrOlD8Ds28ZT-4AHNR-z6TfSe7Lo4WgID-jaxm2smgnIOkkVS6Ei4mwkF8CK2aLU7jm3Z200f6wy4vkjPtHKF96hjBPIDdLABAnW6IQcewoAs7lp_8ZrvOtqUNkCpWdo/s400/oscar.JPG" /></a> Jamie and her Portuguese Water Dog Oscar wrote in and posed an important question about neutering:<br /><br /><em>I have a 5 month old Portie named Oscar. I am getting conflicting advice as to when is the best time to neuter him, which I absolutely am going to do. </em><br /><em></em><br /><em>My parents who have Oscar's older brother (5 years old now) had him neutered at 7 months. My vet says anytime now is okay to be neutered. However, the confusion is that Oscar's breeder asked me when I picked him up to wait until he's at least 18 months old. </em><br /><em></em><br /><em>My parent's dog is in perfect health so maybe they have the right answer. My vet is an expert in neutering so maybe she has the right answer. Finally, the person who breeds the dog and is the expert in Porties might have the right answer. What do you recommend and what are the pro’s and cons of all the choices?</em><br /><br />Jamie, thank you so much for your question. Neutering often brings up a wide variety of opinions, especially when people have different, but equally valid viewpoints.<br /><br />Let's start with what happens when your dog is neutered. (You may want to have Oscar leave the room.) The veterinarian will examine and sedate your pooch and then surgically remove his testicles from the scrotum. The scrotum (aka "sac"), however, remains and eventually shrinks to a barely noticeable size.<br /><br />Jamie, I applaud your commitment to neutering Oscar and helping the animal community. Unfortunately, millions of healthy unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized each year in the United States alone. Quite simply, a neutered male (or spayed female) cannot make puppies and, therefore, won’t be adding to the pet overpopulation problem.<br /><br /><strong><em>Breeder's perspective:</em><br /></strong>In addition, to finding qualified homes for their puppies, reputable breeders are typically interested in breeding for specific attributes and finding the next Top Dog Model – meaning they want to find show quality dogs.<br /><br />Once a dog is about 18 months old, he's fully mature. Accordingly, a breeder (or anyone for that matter) can reliably assess the dog for show qualities, such as bite, coat, structural soundness and temperament. If a dog is neutered before he's at least 18 months, you can't reliably guage what he’ll be like as an adult. Just as it’s impossible to look at a 7 year old girl and determine if she’ll grow up to be a supermodel, we can’t look at a male pooch under 18 months old and determine if he’ll win Best in Show. Moreover, a neutered or spayed dog cannot compete in the show ring.<br /><br />Although I don't know Oscar's breeder, he or she may be recommending you wait to neuter him so he can be assessed to determine if he qualifies as a show or stud dog. In addition, some people believe that a dog doesn't fully physically mature until he reaches a certain age. Interestingly, the <a href="http://healthypet.com/faq_view.aspx?id=42">American Animal Hospital Association</a> reports that genetics, not hormones, are the primary factor in determining size:<br /><br /><blockquote>Neutering does dramatically reduce the amount of testosterone in a male pup's system, which may give him a bit less muscle mass in the long run, but won't affect his height or the size of his frame. Actually, studies have shown that dogs spayed or neutered early (at 16 weeks or younger) tend to be slighter larger than those altered later in life.</blockquote><strong><em>Neuter A Pet Early</em><br /></strong>If Oscar is going to be a pet, there’s no need to wait and see if he'll be qualified for the show ring. Therefore, I agree with your parents, your veterinarian and most <a href="http://healthypet.com/faq_view.aspx?id=168">experts</a> and recommend neutering Oscar as soon as possible after he's 5 months old. I say the earlier the better so Oscar (or any male) has no opportunity to develop any bad habits associated with testosterone, a powerful male sex hormone.<br /><br />When a dog is neutered before he sexually matures at about 6-9 months, he’s much less likely to develop the annoying and dangerous behavioral habits associated with romance and testosterone. Contrary to myth, neutering is unlikely to affect your dog’s playfulness, interest in work, friendliness or personality. Obedience training, therefore, remains important whether or not a dog is neutered (or spayed).<br /><br /><strong><em>How is Neutering Beneficial? Let Me Count The Ways....<br /></em></strong>Neutered dogs typically live longer than intact males because there’s no testosterone urging Fido to search out females for romance. While roaming, your dog is more likely to be hit by a car, be attacked by another dog or animal, be stolen or encounter many other dangers, like poisoning or disease.<br /><br />Likewise, because neutered Fido no longer has the strong desire for romance, he’s less likely to mark his territory to advertise for mates. Thus, he's much less likely to urinate in your house or yard or on every single tree encountered during a walk. Although the evidence isn’t conclusive, loads of research has shown that intact dogs are more aggressive because high testosterone levels may cause them to fight over females.<br /><br />Moreover, an intact male is a target for other males, even those who are neutered. Males can detect the high testosterone levels in an intact dog and dominance challenges often result. Even Arthur, my neutered Cocker Spaniel who is normally the world’s most gentle dog, bears his teeth when he sees or smells an intact male anywhere near by.<br /><br /><strong><em>Neutering Offers Many Health Benefits</em></strong><br />Testicular cancer in older dogs is a significant life-threatening possibility. By removing the stuff inside the scrotum, the risk of testicular cancer is eliminated.<br /><br />Neutering cannot totally protect a dog from prostate cancer or other prostate problems. Neutering, however, does significantly decrease the risk of prostate enlargement or infection and reduce urinary problems in later life. In addition, a neutered male is less likely to suffer from testosterone-related health issues like testicular tumors and certain hernias.<br /><br /><strong><em>Always Talk To Your Vet</em></strong><br />Neutering is a medical procedure and, like all medical procedures, carries some risks. Indeed, neutering is no guarantee that any behavioral problem will be eliminated since Fido will still have some testosterone coursing through his veins. (Please note, after the procedure, it may takes a few months for Fido's testosterone levels to subside.) Bottom line: Because testosterone levels are significantly reduced, many people find a neutered dog more manageable.<br /><br />The benefits of neutering far, far outweigh any risks or cons. Always discuss the pros and <a href="http://www.aspcabehavior.org/articles/45/How-Will-Neutering-Change-My-Dog.aspx">cons</a> of neutering for your individual dog with your vet.<br /><br /><strong><em>Finding Free Or Low Cost Spay And Neuter Clinics</em><br /></strong>Communities around the country offer free or low cost spay and neuter clinics. Check with local animal shelters for more information. Find local clinics here:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/spayneuter/">ASPCA</a><br /><a href="http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html">HSUS</a><br /><a href="http://www.spayusa.org/">SPAY-USA</a><br /><br /><strong><em>For More Information</em></strong><br />Check out <a href="http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/adoption-pet-care/care/spaying-neutering.html">American Humane's article</a> on how spaying and neutering affects our furry friends and our community. Look at these articles too:<br /><br />ASPCA: <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/spayneuter/spay-neuter-top-ten.html">10 Top Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet</a><br />American Animal Hospital Association: <a href="http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?id=136">Neutering Your Pet</a><br /><br /><em><strong>Neither Billy nor Jill is a veterinarian. As with any medical procedure, always consult with your vet before making any decisions.</strong></em>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-91988714458322713612009-11-24T10:32:00.000-06:002009-11-24T10:32:00.156-06:00Shocking Levels of Lead in Pet ProductsWith no government regulations for toxic chemicals in pet products it should come as no surprise that a shocking number contain lead and other dangerous chemicals. This is concerning because dogs and cats are smaller (usually) than we are and put everything in their mouths. Thus, the exposure to the hazardous chemicals is extremely concerning<br /><br /><a href="http://www.healthystuff.org/departments/pets/index.php">Healthystuff.org</a> has tested over 400 pet products, including toys, collars leashes and tennis balls. The results caused shock and awe in Happy Dog Land. The site is well organized and allows for searches by toxicity, brand or product type. Many of the entries include photographs for easy identification.<br /><br />In addition to <a href="http://www.healthystuff.org/departments/pets/product.using.php">product rankings</a>, the site provides valuable information about <a href="http://www.healthystuff.org/departments/pets/about.why.php">keeping Fido healthy</a> and suggestions for <a href="http://www.healthystuff.org/departments/pets/about.why.php">taking action</a> to protect our furry friends from <a href="http://www.healthystuff.org/departments/pets/chemicals.introduction.php">hazardous chemicals</a>.<br /><br />Healthystuff.org also tests human products like toys, apparel and cars. This is a site to bookmark and visit often!Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198452590612078514.post-45841365540865631722009-11-17T12:40:00.048-06:002009-11-18T16:29:42.464-06:00Cool Holiday Gift Ideas and an Important Gift DON'TSanta, reindeer and sleigh-loads of twinkling lights are appearing in malls everywhere. More critically, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Friday_(shopping)">Black Friday</a> is around the corner, and will be upon us before you can even say "arf."<br /><br />Given that we have spent more time that we can ever justify looking at, reading about, and trying out an avalanche of canine products, we thought we would share our knowledge with you and help make your holiday shopping easier. Thus, with no further ado, here are our picks for all the canine-loving people on your gift list:<br /><br />1. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajukNp7gv94zkRHsq22aZzHdGpPlBtIhWdQRV2X3oscL6n5f8awk6GWW0eo2Ft7n50QMAdEEv8dGSxWmVGBXsskPSUN13bmUc-kKXVKhS4nvLi-4GxFbfENGj7mwLkIWtdXgiaezgU41X/s1600-h/book+cover.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 134px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402896188809337458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajukNp7gv94zkRHsq22aZzHdGpPlBtIhWdQRV2X3oscL6n5f8awk6GWW0eo2Ft7n50QMAdEEv8dGSxWmVGBXsskPSUN13bmUc-kKXVKhS4nvLi-4GxFbfENGj7mwLkIWtdXgiaezgU41X/s200/book+cover.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.happydogland.com/book?id=0001"><em>Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit</em></a><br /><br />Since this is our blog, we couldn't resist recommending our own book! <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/book/"><em>HAPPY DOG</em></a> is top choice for all the dog lovers on your list. Whether your giftee is a new dog owner or an experienced one, HAPPY DOG will teach him/her new tricks that will make Fido happy!<br /><br />HAPPY DOG is available at bookstores and on-line retailers such as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0451227867/ref=s9_simz_gw_s0_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0Z9FFGV6DQ9DFQT0WQB0&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846">Amazon</a> and <a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Happy-Dog/Billy-Rafferty/e/9780451227867/?itm=1&USRI=jill+cahr">Barnes and Noble</a>. If you purchase the book on our <a href="http://www.happydogland.com/">website</a>, we will personally sign the book and <a href="http://www.barkerandmeowsky.com/">Barker and Meowsky</a> will donate a portion of the sale to <a href="http://www.americanhumane.org/">American Humane</a>, the only national organization dedicated to protecting animals and children.<br /><br />2. <a href="http://www.richardsharnesscoat.com/">Richards Harness Coat</a><br /><br />We used to cut holes in Shadow and Arthur's sweaters and coats to accommodate their harnesses. But that was before we found the <a href="http://www.richardsharnesscoat.com/">Richards Harness Coat</a>. This clever coat combines climate control, fashion, safety and convenience.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeAIiiqggZbEnO2k1VsZVABkbXDCo75LXiiAhbPCMvHmZXVr3y8QkkaqY1zM0f7y8oP-3fmVAvJKrhRAP7kOorY2NXNwQkHo1eh5ioVtiqFlge7kW4qKtyQrPy9kR45U7yRkNRqnI0gh8/s1600-h/holdcocker.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402895442847144850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeAIiiqggZbEnO2k1VsZVABkbXDCo75LXiiAhbPCMvHmZXVr3y8QkkaqY1zM0f7y8oP-3fmVAvJKrhRAP7kOorY2NXNwQkHo1eh5ioVtiqFlge7kW4qKtyQrPy9kR45U7yRkNRqnI0gh8/s320/holdcocker.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The coats are fully lined, machine washable, and come in a satisfying <a href="http://www.richardsharnesscoat.com/catalog/index.php?p=home">array of fashionable patterns and fabric choices</a> for every weather condition. Choose fleece for winter, water resistant versions for rain, spa cooling coats for warmer weather and field coats to protect Fido when he's in the brush. The built-in harness is easy to adjust and closes with 2 simple clips. Fido's leash attaches to a sturdy ring sewn into the top of the coat.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtpVnIJYxaeDZO-TcU1QbkHCB3s9mgeveBqdWWmcvkA9cJ8dsLFC2qNV1cMpemK1SyspXAx45bOEiep1JN446nE4mvOXBUlj8cgtsCI1bywUp_Gs9qY4Jt_CZI-05XYYgn3vRgez3EQmD/s1600-h/harnesspic.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402892874545191586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtpVnIJYxaeDZO-TcU1QbkHCB3s9mgeveBqdWWmcvkA9cJ8dsLFC2qNV1cMpemK1SyspXAx45bOEiep1JN446nE4mvOXBUlj8cgtsCI1bywUp_Gs9qY4Jt_CZI-05XYYgn3vRgez3EQmD/s320/harnesspic.jpg" /></a>We compared the Richards Harness Coat to others and it's no contest -- the quality and construction of the Richards coat are best in show.<br /><br />Richards Harness Coats are reasonably priced ranging from $21.95 for XXS to $59.95 for XXL Long. Order <a href="http://www.richardsharnesscoat.com/contactus.html">on line</a> or call 248-693-7422. <strong>Happy Dog Land readers can save 10% on their purchase by entering: HDL-2009-10 into the promo code box from now until 12/30/09.<br /></strong><br />3. <a href="https://wackywalkr.websitesource.net/">WACKYwalk'r LEASHES</a><br /><br />For all the people on your list who love to walk their dogs, the <a href="https://wackywalkr.com/">WACKYwalk'r</a> is a perfect gift.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGcbnyMfALF36H4tllCa7u-GKuogAiAnZoSBh062SQROcc2MLH-1FV-QXtDMQVakGRPkFSyootsK9J2mIIGTVTiTIa2JhF_cfsPFlpqy8BWYumhk12JAg7t7ymEgYNy5_AiU-k3BL103D/s1600-h/wacky.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403821606187745954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGcbnyMfALF36H4tllCa7u-GKuogAiAnZoSBh062SQROcc2MLH-1FV-QXtDMQVakGRPkFSyootsK9J2mIIGTVTiTIa2JhF_cfsPFlpqy8BWYumhk12JAg7t7ymEgYNy5_AiU-k3BL103D/s320/wacky.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Constructed from stretchy natural rubber tubing that's reinforced with an internal safety line, the leash extends to twice its length, thus allowing your pooch to explore without ripping your arm out of its socket. How? The leash's flexible tubing reduces the kinetic stress on both the human <em>and</em> the dog. With the WACKYwalk'r, you and your pooch will no longer feel the jerk caused by rigid leashes.<br /><br />The leashes, which come in 14 vibrant colors, are available in 6 different sizes based on Fido's weight) and in 6 different styles to accommodate various walking environments and the pooch's strength.<br /><br />The WACKYwalk'r ($24-35), which extends from 3 ft to 6 ft, is the longest leash. The URBAN ($22-$31) extends from 1.5 feet to 3 feet and allows for more control in congested areas. The STUBB'R ($27), which extends from 10 inches to 20 inches, is ideal for large dogs who are strong pullers. The X'TENSION ($8-$15) attaches to retractable leads and acts as a serious shock absorber for the dog and human.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrMjk2SXkLrHy_a6sTws7Q8OqgstJ6KDbAcyuQkkx_4ZDxwrT8h_duF2EtpAGtN_7-Pe6S28vMvNBME-ocVg2cL5-5XUuR1_X2ts3KyVMLma7BEpYPeUru2ZFuV7gO_tTz8oq1apDQR4L/s1600-h/coupler.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403822249724579330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrMjk2SXkLrHy_a6sTws7Q8OqgstJ6KDbAcyuQkkx_4ZDxwrT8h_duF2EtpAGtN_7-Pe6S28vMvNBME-ocVg2cL5-5XUuR1_X2ts3KyVMLma7BEpYPeUru2ZFuV7gO_tTz8oq1apDQR4L/s320/coupler.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Multiple dog families are also in luck. The CRAZYcoupl'r ($24-$35) allows you to walk 2 dogs comfortably on one leash. For a 3 dog family, the TRICKYtripl'r ($28-$33) is a perfect choice.<br /><br />Our WACKYwalk'rs have made squirrel watching much easier to bear when we walk Shadow, Zeke or Arthur. Purchase the WACKYwalk'r products <a href="https://wackywalkr.websitesource.net/">on line</a> or call 610-222-0679<br /><br />4. <a href="http://www.portapoo.com/home.html">Port-A-Poo</a><br /><br />Nobody likes hauling around a full poop bag while searching for a garbage can. The clever folks behind Port-A-Poo make life with a canine so much easier (and less smelly) with this must-have gizmo for anyone who walks their pooch.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4QmUjm9jvq5LAll4-8z9rC5vvyAqYJoEN-SdJlBqqpiG3CsuO_XRVPopt1g5HqUNBgO3XwMnrtt-KbJXoNvXRkCNaCnAlgSxEhzCM95S4UZWaeNc9x_uxRnsxdai2BBjRBuDgOsomwMZ/s1600-h/portapoo1.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 301px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 192px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402612910548245602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4QmUjm9jvq5LAll4-8z9rC5vvyAqYJoEN-SdJlBqqpiG3CsuO_XRVPopt1g5HqUNBgO3XwMnrtt-KbJXoNvXRkCNaCnAlgSxEhzCM95S4UZWaeNc9x_uxRnsxdai2BBjRBuDgOsomwMZ/s400/portapoo1.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpN-mq45codikc5YSK9xdX0LSwreyNkL2Kio97Ub3pz9vdKGlEHMTRXo7nSF-mIyksDrOzDnhF9LR6rrfCEjeIL41fD4eEIuXiaFpkv4-p6Jt5wh2le7QId9rkYEwAVqPSjpvVHIOrVI4/s1600-h/portapoo.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 269px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 179px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402612669094579858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpN-mq45codikc5YSK9xdX0LSwreyNkL2Kio97Ub3pz9vdKGlEHMTRXo7nSF-mIyksDrOzDnhF9LR6rrfCEjeIL41fD4eEIuXiaFpkv4-p6Jt5wh2le7QId9rkYEwAVqPSjpvVHIOrVI4/s320/portapoo.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We were initially drawn to Port-A-Poo's cute logo and pithy slogan ("picking up where your dog left off"). Then, the cleverness and usefulness of the product won us over.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.portapoo.com/">Port-A-Poo</a> is a hands-free way to carry poop bags whether they're empty or full. The Port-A-Poo easily and securely attaches to any leash. Once attached, it's literally a snap to use. Just open the clip, slip in the bag and you're good to go. Now, you'll be able to throw a tennis ball instead of clutching Fido's poop bag.<br /><br />At $9.95, the Port-A-Poo makes a great stocking stuffer or gift for one of the eight nights of Hanukkah. Choose from 5 bright colors and 2 sizes that fit standard and retractable leashes. Purchase the Port-A-Poo <a href="http://portapoo.com/shop.html">on line</a> or in <a href="http://www.portapoo.com/find_a_retailer.html">retailers</a> in the US and Canada and around the world.<br /><br />5. <a href="http://www.robinslovingtouch.com/">Nose Print Jewelry By Robin's Loving Touch</a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9oTOgu7jOXGwBg93u3MgNOGVrbjINjUW9J9UZ2-UR4Es42eHwetLdFPgNWGy3S7emIDqTE2VD0ZArfSEPlfXYJ9euFHQYsNL_FymBUxD0nzJFrVWUE-Xo3IKQp9fxpt-W53M9NHqXKfvD/s1600-h/nose_print.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 350px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 350px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402611661468956274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9oTOgu7jOXGwBg93u3MgNOGVrbjINjUW9J9UZ2-UR4Es42eHwetLdFPgNWGy3S7emIDqTE2VD0ZArfSEPlfXYJ9euFHQYsNL_FymBUxD0nzJFrVWUE-Xo3IKQp9fxpt-W53M9NHqXKfvD/s400/nose_print.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Indiana artist Robin Durnbaugh of <a href="http://www.robinslovingtouch.com/nose.php">Robin's Loving Touch</a> offers one of the most unique and meaningful jewelry ideas we've come across.<br /><br />Robin's <a href="http://www.robinslovingtouch.com/nose.php">nose print pendants</a>, charms and identification tags are made from an impression of your pooch's schnoz in yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver or solid chrome ($195-$625 depending on the metal and most include a matching chain).<br /><br />Robin's jewelry keeps your best friend close to you at all times. Robin also offers <a href="http://www.robinslovingtouch.com/fingure.php">finger print pendants</a> to keep your human loved ones with you.<br /><br />The pendants, charms and tags are personalized and instant heirlooms. Included in the price of the jewelry is a kit with easy-to-follow instructions for making the impression for the piece.<br /><br />Both Jill and Billy have put in their orders. Jill will be wearing Shadow's nose print and her son's fingerprint. Billy will be sporting Zeke and Arthur's nose prints. Order <a href="http://www.robinslovingtouch.com/order.php">on line</a> or call 260-489-0671.<br /><br />8. <a href="http://noearsinhere.com/">No Ears In Here Dog Bowl</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7ay1VXDVcVZ_kPl2nzK-MXL42akaUZMr34TVaO3vXrPFWqTj96LxBxTmoFmY_mLPYWk7PzY2QVcjIPUXpZaAX5GMPYppjadJThU9YpVajiPytzNqR8XIK26qFDeYq4vpn27eULzak019/s1600/picDottie.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 179px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 233px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404726525091715554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7ay1VXDVcVZ_kPl2nzK-MXL42akaUZMr34TVaO3vXrPFWqTj96LxBxTmoFmY_mLPYWk7PzY2QVcjIPUXpZaAX5GMPYppjadJThU9YpVajiPytzNqR8XIK26qFDeYq4vpn27eULzak019/s320/picDottie.jpg" /></a>Here's some welcome relief for all the long-eared dogs on your list. The cleverly designed <a href="http://noearsinhere.com/index.html">No Ears In Here Bowl</a> keeps pendulous ears out of the food or water so Fido's ears and the floor stay clean and dry while he eats or drinks.<br /><br />The bowl is 9 1/2 inches tall so it won't tip over. The inner bowl, however, is just deep enough to hold 2 cups of food or water. This means that Fido is less likely to gulp his food and swallow excess air, which might upset his tummy.<br /><br />The bowls are made in the USA and at $9.35 a piece make an economical and practical gift. Fill the bowl with treats, wrap it in cellophane and voila you have a snazzy gift that didn't break the bank. Order <a href="http://noearsinhere.com/order.html">on line</a> or call 574-267-6258.<br /><br />7. <b>DONATION TO A PET CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE</b><br /><br />Honor the people or pets on your gift list by helping animals in need. Making a donation to a favorite local or national animal welfare organization, shelter or rescue is a perfect gift for any animal lover. Most charities will be happy to notify the honoree of your gift, which saves you the time and effort of sending a card.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold" class="Apple-style-span">WARNING: NEVER BUY A PET AS A GIFT!</span><br /><br />We hope our suggestions help make your holidays easier and removes some of the stress of finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list. One thing you will <strong>never</strong> see on our list is a live animal: <strong>dogs (or any pet) make lousy gifts</strong>! Taking on the responsibility of pet ownership is something that should not (and cannot!) be "given" to someone.<br /><br />Everyone doesn't share our love of animals, and even animal lovers may be reluctant or incapable of assuming the responsibilities, time commitment and expense of a new pet. Animals are not returnable or disposable and, therefore, should never,<em> ever</em> be given as a gift.<br /><br />Instead, wrap up a creative stand-in for the living, breathing animal, such as a picture, toy, food or cute collar and leash. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate from a local shelter or rescue. This allows the recipient to decide for him- or herself whether she’s ready, willing and able to welcome a pet into her family.<br /><br />Moreover, the holidays are a dreadful time to introduce a new pet into a household. Routines are altered, celebrations take everyone from home and everyone is probably too busy to provide a new family member with the required care, stability, love and attention. Wait until after the holidays. Local shelters and rescues will be overflowing with rejected holiday gifts that are anxiously awaiting their new home.<br /><br />We hope that this provides you with some good ideas on how to make your holiday season doggone amazing!</div>Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01572198308877102081noreply@blogger.com4