Florida in 48: A Weekend Road Trip
Hotel, restaurant and beach deets!
Like many people in the U.S., we made the most of the long weekend this Memorial Day and decided to hit the road for a little fresh air, change of scenery, and fun in the sun before it gets screamingly hot here in Florida.
I would call this a semi-planned trip. I had it book marked in my brain but then my husband got sick and I had a ton of work to do, so I wasn’t sure we’d make it out (thankfully, he was fine and it was nothing COVID-related). But, at the last minute I decided to just go for it. Knowing full well it might be hard to find pet-friendly accommodations last minute AND for a holiday weekend, no less. But, if there’s anyone who’s up for a challenge, it’s me!
Our itinerary: We had certain places in mind that we wanted to visit, but we casually headed up the east coast of Florida and then across to the west coast.
Where we stayed: La Quinta Inn & Suites in Cocoa Beach, FL and Springhill Suites by Marriott in Ocala, FL Both are pet-friendly and do not have breed or size restrictions.
Pet fees: $75 and $30 per stay, respectively.
A little background: It’s been awhile since I’ve traveled with dogs. Mostly because the two I’ve had in the past few years were reactive and it just made navigating crowds and new spaces stressful for everyone. Add the heat and long car rides and we just opted to let them stay home. After the loss of our boy Lobo last year, we adopted Mr. Max back in October and he’s proven to be a great road dawg. But, because we’re still getting our sea legs, I have not yet perfected the practice. So, I welcome any and all your ideas and suggestions!
Packing for pups: For Christmas last year my dogs got their own suitcase. Yes, you read that right. At the end of 2020 we bought a camper and last year we took our first camping trips. I realized quickly that two large dogs need their own bag, lol. So for the holidays, I found a great rolling suitcase on Chewy, similar to this one and put it under the tree for them. :)
For hotel trips, I don’t have to pack as much, but as a minimum, I pack their food in individual Ziploc bags, separate bowls for water and food (their suitcase came with two collapsable ones), at least one large towel, treats, a favorite toy and a few emergency meds (e.g Trazadone, Imodium, a general antiseptic/hot spot spray and an ace bandage.) If you have it on hand, I also recommend taking along an anti-nausea drug like Cerenia which can help with car sickness. I also fill an old ice tea jug with water to keep in the car for water breaks. You can easily refill it at any hotel or restaurant stop.
Cocoa Beach, Florida
Shout out to the Tiny Turtle for being so easy and accommodating with a down to earth vibe and menu to match. If we’re ever up that way again, we’ll definitely be back!
After driving for hours the first day we stopped in Cocoa Beach at this cute little Puerto Rican restaurant I found on Trip Advisor (basically during my bedtime search the night before). Besides just being super friendly, the staff at The Tiny Turtle were so sweet and accommodating to Max. It seemed like a never-ending flow of wait staff came out on to the patio to visit him once news got around inside. Anyway, I had a shrimp wrap and my husband had the tacos and Max had a plain patty from the kid’s menu. Everyone was a happy camper!
“We heard we have to pay the Max Tax before leaving”
Max soaking up all the attention (and hamburgers) at The Tiny Turtle.
After lunch, we checked into our room at La Quinta - Cape Canaveral. I can’t really rave about the accommodations here (you’re paying a premium for being a block away from the beach in a tourist town), but there were definitely some pros - 1. Friendly staff and super easy check-in/check out. 2. You can park directly in front of your room for easy access in and out. This is particularly helpful if you have reactive or anxious pets. 3. There was a big, empty field right across the street which was perfect for uninterrupted walks and potty breaks. 3. We were across the street from a dog park (look for Lori Wilson Park).
Disclaimer: I personally don’t use dog parks, but I know many do and in a pinch, sometimes you need one to burn off some energy.
After freshening up and doing a lap around the field we walked over to a local ice cream shop for a cold treat. When the kid behind the counter saw my husband waiting outside with Max he told me to have them come on in! Not only did they not mind having the dog in the shop, they ran to make him a pup cup of his own. Free of charge and with some head pats thrown in:)
(They also had what appeared to be a really cute patio out back to hang out on, but we skipped it because it looked like it was about to rain any minute. Hey, hey #floridasummers)
Crystal River, Florida
The next morning we grabbed some breakfast at the hotel and made an early exit so that we could west head across the state to the Crystal River area (this central coast town is part of a larger area dubbed Florida’s Nature Coast and if you’re not familiar with it I highly recommend checking it out). This chill little town is probably best known for its crystal clear (and highly protected) spring waters and park land that become the official home to manatees in the winter. The manatees congregate here by the hundreds in search of the warmth that the springs offer. Visitors can visit, feed, and even swim with them at designated times and locations. (I haven’t done that yet, but it’s definitely on my list!) We’re past manatee season now, but with summer’s high temps there’s plenty of casual, beachy relaxation to be had.
Welcome to Crystal River, FL!
You can park hassle and fee-free right off the tiny main street of Citrus Ave., use (clean!) restrooms and take a stroll around the big grassy lot (complete with water fountains for people and dogs). We stopped for another late lunch at Kane’s Cattle Co., a steakhouse with a large patio. The food was great and they brought a plastic bowl and a big bottle of cold water for Max to enjoy while we sat outside. After lunch, we strolled down to Hunter Springs Park, watched some people enjoy the beach and load their kayaks into the water.
Springhill Suites by Marriott
We loaded ourselves into the air conditioned car and headed to Ocala, about 30 min inland to check into the Springhill Suites. We welcomed the easy check-in and nice large room. Note: They have designated pet-friendly rooms, but the onus is on the guest to let them know at check-in that you’ll need one. Otherwise, you can incur a $250 cleaning fee. Yikes.
A few cons: There really isn’t anywhere to walk dogs, despite their website saying they have a dog “trail” somewhere. You’re right next to a large gas station and a busy road so make sure you have a good leash or secure system for taking them out if you stay at this particular location.
Homosassa, Florida
The next day we explored Homosassa, an old fishing village known for having tons of wildlife, water and boat activities, and the Ellie Schiller Wildlife State Park. After working up an appetite, we stopped at the Florida Cracker Kitchen, across from the historic Monkey Island attraction. We didn’t visit the monkeys (because of the dog and the heat, we skipped this), but we did enjoy a FANTASTIC brunch at this little restaurant across the water. It sits right on the dock where you can watch the boats go by. The menu was filled with yummy country kitchen options and the waitstaff was amazingly friendly. We talked with one of the waitresses about her own experience with German Shepherds and the cook even came out to greet Max and ask if he ate “people” food. Lo and behold, this sweet guy came out the back door with a doggie platter - an egg scramble with ham, sausage and bacon! What a kind gesture. He told us, “My daughter has a German Shepherd and she would never forgive me if I didn’t offer him a good meal!” They also brought us a water dish and plenty of cold water with ice. Besides leaving with full bellies (and a to-go bag), we have some great memories of this quaint and unique spot and would definitely return in the future (and hopefully see some monkeys).
As always, vacations seem too short, but it was time to get on the road and head back home. It was a great quick, getaway from our daily routines and schedule. Max slept for the next 24 hours - the adventurous life wears him out!
Side note: I feel compelled to mention that a lot of the beaches we visited didn’t allow dogs. Understandable for a few reasons, but still kind of a bummer. We got close, walking right up to the sand a few times and no one ever stopped us or gave us a warning, but it’s still important to know that you could be stopped and possibly fined.
That being said, we were blown away with how friendly - and pet-friendly - these small towns were. Everyone had a smile and lovely greeting. We joked that we could never be low-key and just keep to ourselves on a trip with Max - he is a people magnet!
I hope you found our little story inspiring and /or helpful in planning your next trip. I welcome your thoughts and comments - and of course, any of your recommendations for pet-friendly travel!
Puptables
When Ashley Hutson’s family realized that they’d be forced to permanently close the doors of their restaurant, they were faced with some big decisions. After running the famed Ortanique on the Mile in Coral Gables for more than twenty years, the pandemic took the ultimate toll on the beloved business.
As many have been forced to do these past six months, Ashley had to re-evaluate her life – and livelihood - and figure out her next chapter.
As the former General Manager and Chef, she did some soul searching and ultimately decided to make an official business out of what had been a long-time hobby - making home cooked meals for dogs.
“As much as I love being a chef, the hours were really starting to get to me. I felt like I didn’t have a life at all. This (Corona-induced) closure gave me the avenue to find something that I really love.”
- Ashley Hutson (Photo by Carly Terenzio)
And so, Puptables was born. Using her well-honed culinary skills, she began making healthy, balanced meals for dogs from the same high-quality ingredients she used to source for the restaurant. “These are the exact same purveyors and products used at Ortanique.”
Offering three different blends to satisfy all taste buds and health needs - multi-vitamin, weight management and skin & coat - Puptables is a supplemental food to mix in to your favorite kibble or other dog food. If you would like to transition your dog off kibble entirely, they also offer complete meals with either a chicken, pork or beef base.
Ashley’s boyfriend, Dennis, a professional baker, is also now adding dog treats and specialty cakes to their menu. A turmeric paste is in the works next.
Need a cake for your pup? You can now order cakes and desserts like this to celebrate a birthday, adoption, or any other milestone.
As with many passion pivots, there was a personal angle. “I’m really passionate about changing the views on bully breeds. I have three pit bulls.”
Bullet, who is now the face of the brand (and pictured above) was headed to a kill shelter when Ashley intervened. “My cousin called me and asked me to help with this dog. I was not ready. But, once I saw those eyes, I was done.” Now, Bullet has a sister Freya and the latest addition to the household, a new puppy named Floki. (Freya is from Paw Patrol Animal Rescue and Floki is from Bullies-N- Beyond, both South Florida-based rescues).
“I don’t see myself going back to cooking for people in a human kitchen. I’m a dog chef now.”
Photo by Carly Terenzio
“Opening a business and starting something from scratch is terrifying. It’s even more terrifying with all that‘s going on – not only in our state, but our country and the world.
(But), At the the end of the day…. any part I can have to make animals healthier is a passion project for me.”
Puptables is based in Miami, FL and they offer delivery options to the surrounding area. Learn more about their meal plans and place your orders here.
Bonus tip! When you subscribe to our newsletter, you’ll receive a Puptables discount code!
The Snout Diet
You’ve probably heard about the growing popularity of human-grade food for pets. As more and more pet owners realize the negative impact feeding low-quality kibble can have on their pets’ long term health and wellness, they’re seeking alternatives to the standard dry and wet food options that have populated big box store shelves for decades.
There are several large, commercial companies who have gotten into the better-food-for-your-dog game with successful results. However, there is also a growing crop of smaller, mom-and-pop shops that are actually home cooking meals for dogs - made with quality ingredients (balanced for optimal nutrition) and tasty flavors that are proven winners with most pups.
As a rep for a traditional dog food company - and mom to three of her own dogs - Samantha Manuel, owner of The Snout Diet, started to realize that maybe kibble wasn’t necessarily the only (or best) option for canine family members.
“I was feeding my dogs homemade food way before I started this company. I started with a simple sweet potato. From there, it’s been a journey of me feeding my dogs and learning what’s good for them.”
She officially launched The Snout Diet in July 2020 (in the midst of the pandemic no less), in an effort to bring homemade food and treats to dog owners in her community.
With an option called Just the Basics (chicken, brown rice, sweet potato and egg) for dogs who might have more sensitive stomachs), to a salmon based option called Under the Sea, and snacks like Bacon Chips and Snout Balls, there are options for every dog. Each package contains seven meals and the snacks come in boxes or bags. “One of my goals was to bring this to people in an affordable way….this is only $4 for a meal per dog.”
Before officially launching, Samantha put the word out via social media asking people if they’d be willing to try some free samples (full disclosure: that’s how we met) and the response has been great. “I’m so elated that people are loving it as much as I do. I’ve gotten so many good responses; I‘m just really excited.”
Samantha was kind enough to drop off to us a (compostable and biodegradable) package of Snout Balls - oven baked treats made from oatmeal, pumpkin puree, egg, peanut butter and cinammon. The K&D boys gobbled them right up! (I shared that video on Facebook).
“My dogs are my babies, I want them to have the longest life possible.”
Samantha’s three dogs: Penny, Princess and Gracie
Based in Coconut Creek, FL Samantha currently delivers every morning to areas around Broward County, with her sights set on being to able to deliver to Miami and Palm Beach counties in the near future. Follow The Snout Diet on Facebook and Instagram @thesnoutdiet. Happy feeding!
“This is the food that our dogs should be eating. It’s not dog food, it’s food for our dogs.”
Juice Pulp Dog Treats
Recently, I've started to be more diligent about juicing. Like so many people, when I bought my juicer a few years ago, I was intent on being a juicing queen. And, then….. life happens! After a few attempts, I put it in the kitchen cabinet and promptly forgot about it. That is, until I see an article or someone’s IG with a gorgeous looking green juice, and am I’m reminded of how I’m slacking in my wellness efforts. So, while we can make up excuses all day long about how we don’t have the time, the ingredients (or the will to clean that thing afterwards), I decided to “just do it,” and create a new habit.
(Who are we kidding, we have loads of time now)
A few days ago, I lugged out the 'ol juicer and emptied out my produce bins in order to make an immune-boosting morning treat. It was honestly super easy - and rewarding. I included fruits and veggies that are well-known immune boosters and carry anti-viral properties since these supplements are so critical for everyone right now.
After a few rounds of this (juicing and cleaning), it occurred to me that I might be wasting something precious here. All that pulp! I don’t have a compost bin, but I didn’t want to toss perfectly good ingredients, either. Suddently, I had an idea - could I give this pulp to muy pups?
So, I googled it and I found out that yes, I most certainly can. :)
I found this adorable baked treat recipe that uses fruit pulp as main ingredient. I’m going to give these a try and I’ll share the results with you. Have any of you ever given your dog the raw pulp, or used it in a recipe like this? Let me know in the comments!
Life is Better With a Dog: How to Find the Right One for You
At Kibble & Dribble, our commitment to helping people and pets starts at the very beginning of the relationship. While (puppy) love at first sight is possible - it’s usually not an indicator of success or, guarantees a fairytale ending.
The decision to get a new dog isn’t an easy one; there are many factors to consider - cost, time, breed choices, lifestyle realities, etc. Often, people turn immediately to sites like Petfinder or Craigslist, but are quickly overwhelmed or disillusioned with their choices. Rest assured that those are not the only viable options out there.
We’ve broken down the various methods of dog adoption that are available and accessible to the general public, and the pet sources you should avoid.
Pet Stores: how much is that doggie in the window?
The short answer: don’t even bother asking. Large chains like Petland have been growing in popularity, but while they may appear stylish and trendy - BUYER BEWARE. Pet store dogs are usually supplied by large breeding operations, aka puppy mills. Dogs go from mills to stores across the country via third party dog brokers, who collect a fee for supplying a steady stream of “inventory.” Female dogs kept at mills are bred over and over again, while the litters are disseminated. This video by The Dodo does a great job of explaining the realities.
Once in the care of the store personnel, pups rarely get the vaccinations and/or medical attention they need, and then go home with unsuspecting customers who often have to follow up with extensive veterinary care. Finally, when those cute puppies start to age, the clock begins to tick. It’s not easy to keep as many full-grown dogs in a store (and also, people like to see those cute puppy faces), so those dogs….. “go back.” Yikes.
Recent legislation has banned the sale of animals in certain states and requires that pet stores get their animals from shelters or rescues.
New York State Senator Michael Gianaris and Assembly member Linda Rosenthal have introduced ASPCA-supported legislation to prohibit the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores.
My new legislation to ban the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores statewide will finally end the puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline. Animals such as puppies, kittens and bunnies in mills live short, tortured existences; their offspring, usually the animals offered for sale at pet stores, are often riddled with congenital issues as a result of the poor conditions and breeding practices employed,” said bill sponsor Assembly member Rosenthal. “Unsuspecting customers pay thousands of dollars for a cute puppy or kitten, only to find that the animal is incurably sick. By ensuring that pet stores can offer only rescues for adoption, this legislation will protect consumers and help to shut down the mills. Our animal shelters and rescue organizations are overflowing with animals needing forever homes; it's time we start connecting rescue animals with loving homes through adoption in pet stores.
Public education is critical in ensuring that we slowly eradicate these inhumane forms of breeding and selling. As hard as it is to resist those cute faces in the window, every sale goes to perpetuating the cycle of cruelty. The only way to stop it is to put pet stores out of business - if the demand dwindles, so will the supply.
Breeders - the good, the bad, and the ugly
Getting a dog from a highly reputable breeder is a great option, but be prepared to do some thorough research and pay a significant price. This is fair and reasonable considering the time, effort and cost of raising healthy, well-cared for, and socialized animals. If you are not prepared to spend between $2K and $5K, examine the myriad of adoption methods. And, despite the long-held belief that purebreds are the superior choice, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a dog’s personality type or perfect health.
If you prefer to take this route: here are a few key indicators of a quality breeder:
Transparent and welcoming: Are you allowed to visit their facility and see their dogs? If this is geographically possible for you, we highly recommend you go. If they balk or make excuses for you not to come, that’s a red flag.
Age appropriate releases: A puppy should never be released to their new owner before12 weeks of age. Additionally, if a breeder has available litters too often you know that they are overbreeding their female(s), or running a large operation for maximum profits.
Strict return policy: A good breeder will ALWAYS allow you to return a dog. No matter what. In fact, they will require it and often will ask you to sign paperwork agreeing to it.
PROS: In the best case scenario, a breeder can provide you with a gorgeous, even-tempered animal in optimal health. Jakoba German Shepherds is a good example of what you should see when researching breeders.
CONS: While highly reliable, good breeders are costly and you can be on a waiting list for several months, or even a year, so be prepared. Beyond that, the sad fact is that the majority of breeders are not great, or scrupulous. Bad and over-breeding can result in genetic and behavioral issues. Backyard breeders are known for keeping animals in horrible conditions, not doing the necessary health testing and in some cases, hoarding. Backyard breeding is responsible for the significant number of animals that find themselves in the shelter system each year.
To rescue, or not to rescue
The most common questions and concerns when it comes to rescue are: Will I get a damaged dog? An abused dog? A dog with separation anxiety or aggression issues?
You might. You also might not. The term “rescue dog” conjures up images of sick, abused or senior animals, which is sometimes the case, but in reality, the majority are just dogs that need homes and were lucky enough to go into rescue instead of a shelter. Many times the owners simply could no longer care for them due to financial hardship, an expanding family, or illness. You’ll find many bouncy, happy go lucky dogs in rescue, and you will also find “special cases.”
Much like breeders, not all rescues are created - or operate - equally. You need to do your homework and read their reviews, meet with some volunteers, and ultimately, go with your gut. Rescues routinely have adoption events that will allow you to talk with volunteers, meet a variety of dogs and ask questions. They also offer 1:1 “meet and greets” if you are interested in one in particular and a detailed assessment of that dog’s temperament and personality.
Additionally you can expect:
An application process that may include a home check. They should ask all potential adopters to fill out an application. Don’t balk at this process, they are ensuring that the animal is going to a good and safe home.
Spaying/neutering/vaccinations. They should provide you an animal who is already fixed, vaccinated, and free of fleas and ticks. They should have also tested for heart worm (if that applies to your area) and stomach worms. These are non-negotiables.
Strict return policy. Just like a breeder, a good rescue should be willing to take a dog back if you can no longer care for them.
PROS: Rescues can be wonderful resources. Often, they have their own communities of really helpful owners and volunteers who want to see you succeed. They will make themselves available for your post-adoption questions and offer training suggestions. Their fees are generally lower than than breeders, but higher than Humane Societies or city shelters. You are getting a dog that’s been assessed, medically treated and vaccinated.
CONS: Not every rescue has enough staff or resources to provide the best services. Because of this, potential adopters may get incorrect information about a dog, or have to wait while the organization slogs through multiple applications for the same dog. Furthermore, you might not always be the chosen adopter as it is up to their discretion. The Washington Post explained just how daunting this process can be.
Plot Twist: breed-specific rescues
Westside German Shepherd Rescue is a popular rescue organization based in Los Angeles, CA.
A personal favorite of mine is the breed-specific rescue. Many people don’t know these even exist! Whether you have your heart set on a Great Dane or a Goldendoodle - there’s a rescue group for that.
PROS: Volunteers are usually extremely knowledgable about that particular breed. Their community is as well and can be a wealth of helpful information. I have met some really awesome people through the rescue community, many of whom I now consider personal friends.
CONS: The population and availability of certain breeds varies dramatically around the country. The rescue you find may be out of state or might not have any available dogs that fit your criteria. Most groups will however, agree to contact you in the future and can even arrange transportation for an additional cost.
Animal Shelters and Humane Societies:
the underdogs
The sad reality is that there are hundreds of thousands of dogs in shelters across the United States. Owner surrenders, strays, criminal confiscations - you name it, the shelter gets it. The pet overpopulation is largely due to backyard breeding (see above) and owners who do not spay and neuter their pets. There are amazing purebred dogs who end up in shelters, and there are mangy street mutts. They are all deserving of a home.
PROS: Perhaps the most altruistic, cost-effective and quickest option, adopting from a shelter can take as little as an hour and cost under $100.
CONS: Often understaffed, you will get little help once you step into a shelter. It’s up to you look at dogs and try to assess their temperament or personality - a difficult task in the shelter environment. The dogs have theoretically all been seen by medical staff, however, these vists are often rushed and shelter employess can often overlook, misdiagnose or simply not treat conditions deemed too costly. If you do adopt from the shelter, we recommend that you head immediately to your own vet for a checkup and a flea and tick bath.
The Dark Web
Craigslist and Facebook Groups are popular for people looking for free or low-cost pets. While some animals are listed innocently, these sites are commonly used by backyard breeders, dog fighters and dog-nappers. Need I say more?
This Dogster article written by a trainer details some of the things to look out for, specially on Craigslist and refers to it as an “adoption agency with no standards or oversight.” Pretty accurate. Still not convinced? Here’s another horror story.
The Obsession with Puppies
I feel compelled to address this here as a side note. Puppies are humans’ collective salve for the soul. Instagram has amplified the cuteness 1000x over sending images of those round bellies and clumsy gallops all around the world instantaneously. We have fallen in puppy love, and fallen hard. But, much like babies, they are a lot of work.
Puppies are available via all the adoption methods mentioned above. HOWEVER, bringing one home requires a lot more patience and flexibilty.
Important things to keep in mind if you want a puppy and think you’re ready:
A puppy should be at least 8 weeks old. Any younger is too young to be separated from mom.
Training puppies is incredibly difficult. We’re talking house breaking (which can require you to get up several times during the night), leash walking and obedience training.
We like to joke that the number of people who can successfully train a puppy train is akin to the number of people who will successfully train for and run, a marathon. In other words, not many. You need to be realistic about what you can commit to and accomplish as you will be in training mode for a solid 6 - 12 months. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but it is do-able. If you have the time and dedication to attempt this, I salute you!
“Keep in mind that a dog can take anywhere from a few days to a few months to settle in to your home. Prepare to clear your schedule and stay home with them for the first few days to help them adjust to their new surroundings and minimize the chance of any bathroom accidents or destructive behavior.”
We hope this breakdown gives you better understand of your options and empowers you to make an informed decision about your personal path to pet ownership. All of these methods can be extremely rewarding, but it helps to know what you are looking for and be realistic about what you can handle.
If you’d like a deeper understanding of any of these suggestions or additional help navigating the options, reach out to us at info@kibbleanddribble.com. Or, check out our consulting service The Pawfect Match which offers hands-on help to people and families in search of their perfect dog.
The Pawfect Match
As the owner and founder of Kibble& Dribble, I’m happy to announce that we are officially launcing our next venture, The Pawfect Match.
The Pawfect Match is a matchmaking service of sorts - designed to match people and families who are looking for a new pet, with their ideal match. In order to do that, we meet with new clients to determine their lifestyle, desired personality traits in a pet, family size and location. This happens either in person, if possible, or via a phone call. Our consultations typically last one hour and can be scheduled with anyone within the U.S.
“We offer comprehensive consultation services to help people figure out how and where to find their perfect pet. Our desire to help people and families through this process comes from a decade of seeing them struggle with analysis paralysis, frustrating wait times, unfamiliar costs, training issues, family dynamics and lifestyle changes.”
There isn’t just one right way to do it
We do not advocate for any one particular way of obtaining a new pet. Part of what I explain during consultations are the different, available routes you can take to pet ownership, and what to expect from each. From there, it will be your decision how to proceed. (However, we do not support, nor work with pet stores or unscrupulous breeders. This is not negotiable). Furthermore, we do not consider any breed “bad” or reliably “good.” There are variations within them all.
Dogs! They’re like potato chips….
Hi! I’m Vanessa Torres, founder of Kibble & Dribble and the Pawfect Match.
If you’d like to add a second or third pet to your home, we’d be happy to help you find your new addition! Part of our initial meeting will be getting to know your current pet(s) and determining what would be best for them, as well as the human members of the family.
We offer different packages to provide you with options that suit your timeline and budget.
The goal is to find your new best friend and to set you both up for success, preparing you for years of loyalty, commitment and enrichment.
Furthermore, our relationship with clients doesn’t simply end when your pup is home. If you have additional questions or concerns post-homecoming, we’re here to address them.
For more information visit our dedicated page, The Pawfect Match, where you’ll also find testimonials from people I’ve worked with. You can also join our Facebook page, where you’ll find current listings of dogs in need of new homes. I look forward to being your guide on this journey!
Halloween + Dogs = Cute
Halloween is nearly upon us and, for those who like to go all out for this holiday, the shopping and planning can be endless. From homemade couples costumes, to “houses of horror,” some people wait all year for these spooky celebrations.
Recently, dog parents have gotten their pups in the act, taking them along trick-or-treating with kids, and even dressing them up in their own adorable costumes. We have to admit, dogs in costumes can be ridiculously cute. And these days, it’s easier than ever to suit up your pooch, with tons of options available from the big box stores. But, before you buy Fluffy her costume while doing your regular shopping, consider supporting the underdog, the mom and pop shops who are doing their most to keep it creative and handmade. So, in honor of those who love to get their dogs in on the act (and those who love to help them) we’ve rounded up our favorite Etsy shops, that will gladly make costumes for your pets.
Shop small and support the little guy
Note: We suggest that you take note of processing and shipping times before ordering, and if you have any questions, be sure to contact each respective seller prior to making your purchase. Also, it’s important to remember that not all dogs like to dress up or wear things on their head and face. If you notice that your dog seems stressed, please respect their wishes.
FROODIES Hoodies creates custom dog hoodies specifically for the um… ahem… “big-boned” pups in our lives, inspired by Rosie Future Underfoot, the French bulldog. That doesn’t mean that you can’t get a custom Froodie to fit your pooch, though!
Check out this adorable premade flying pig costume on the Froodies Hoodies shop, or maybe take a look at standard Froodies in “bulldog bordeaux,” which passes for a believable bat. The best part is that Froodies Hoodies are a great option for year-round wear, and are so stinking cute we can’t help ourselves.
We love this adorably functional “bat dog” harness by Octostitches that makes for a perfect option if you plan to take your pooch trick-or-treating with the kiddos (obvs no candy, but will wag tail for head pats!). Props (Prawps??? Hehe...,) to Octostitches’ indie owners and creators for embracing green crafting and using only recycled materials in their creations!
Pay attention to sizing on this one as Octostitches specializes in small dog and ferret accessories! Ferrets!
Just Dog Gone Cute wants to make sure our bigger furbabies get in on the dress-up fun with the Bad to the Bone Ribbon Dog Collar (pictured in a Medium). Just Dog Gone Cute has one of our favorite stories leading up to its creation, as it all started with prettying up adoptable pup pics for a local shelter. Make your pooch the star of the spooky show in this skeleton ribbon collar! (Skeleton PJs not included).
The Cutest Lion Ever!The Cutest Lion Ever!
KO Couture specializes in “knockout fashion” accessories for both small and large breeds, but this ferociously sweet lion costume is just for the little guys. The costume features tan and brown felt strips attached to a felt headband that can double as a collar depending on your pup’s measurements. As if this alone wasn’t cute enough, two matching leg cuffs complete the look. Snag this one up and your lil’ pup is sure to turn heads on Hallloween!
Dress up your pretty girl in a durable and perfectly gorgeous doggie tutu by Once Upon a Time Tutus. Our fave is this brilliant peacock tutu - just look at those colors! We love the idea of doggie tutus because when isn’t it a good day for a tutu? I mean, come on! Can you imagine getting a matching one for yourself and raking up all the likes on Instagram? Once Upon a Time Tutus is a family-owned shop that started with basic tutus and hair accessories and expanded their offerings as they grew. For this, and the peacock pup tutu, we are ever-so-grateful.
Tutu cute!
Animal Advocates in Nigeria Host March Against Cruelty
After a series of disturbing videos showing a puppy being tortured by teens went viral on social media, pet photographer Babajide Ajayi and his fellow animal advocates knew they had to take action.
Last week they organized and held a march in their hometown of Lagos, Nigeria to raise awareness about animal cruelty and to spread the word that such treatment is unacceptable.
“Apart from being a pet photographer, I belong to a group of like minded people in the pet community in Nigeria who believe and advocate for responsible pet ownership. We have two vets who run dog shelters in Lagos, Nigeria, dog trainers, handlers, lovers, enthusiast, owners and even breeders.”
The person who started this movement within our groups of "positive pet ambassadors" and "ANIMAL VOICES," is Jackie Idimogu, who has a local TV show called, My Dog and I.
The goal was to enlighten people on how to treat animals, how to care for them properly and to let them know it's wrong to just kill an animal indiscriminately.
In a community like Nigeria alot of people outside might feel we don't really care but, there's actually a lot of animal loving people here and the community is growing.
“We had to take a stand collectively to fight against animal cruelty in Nigeria by enlightening the public, creating awareness. The goal was to enlighten people on how to treat animals, how to care for them properly and to let them know it’s wrong to just kill an animal indiscriminately.”
A big thank you to Jide Ajayi Pet Photography, who provided us all the photos from the event. You can follow him and his work on Facebook and Instagram, @jideajayipetphotography.
How to Throw a Breed Reveal Party
The latest trend in dog ‘parenting’
We are excited to share with you a post from guest blogger Melissa Toohey, a contributing writer at LA-based LaLaScoop who handles all their pet-related content for the Doggy Doo section. Like many pet owners, Melissa and her family recently decided to buy a dog DNA test in order to obtain more information about their two rescue pups, Brezel and Schnitzel. They decided to have some fun with the answers and host a “breed reveal” party as a fundraiser for Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles, the rescue group they adopted their dogs from. (Full disclosure: our very own “Dribble” is also a Westside alum). When I learned of Melissa’s party - and all the thought she put into it - I thought it was a really fun and entertaining way to raise money for a great cause. And, it just might inspire some of our readers to do the same!
The health screening was incredibly useful. While Brezel has no mutations in her genes, we discovered Schnitzel had a gene mutation that made potentially sensitive to certain anesthetics. This was a relief to find out, and we took comfort in knowing we could let our Vet know so they could be careful with his medical care.
With all the hype around gender reveal parties, and the continued discussion around why they are problematic, I decided to take the idea, apply it to my two fur babies, adjust it so that it went towards a good cause. Brezel and Schnitzel were rescued from Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles and any information about their previous lives was limited. My husband, Scott, and I decided to host a “Breed Reveal” party in honor of them, and collect donations for Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles. Our attendees had lots of fun, and the results were a shock, to say the least! Here are some tips to host a successful Breed Reveal Party:
Prior to the party, we purchased Embark Dog DNA Test. While there are a variety of tests on the market, we felt this was the best for our dogs. Since they were fully grown at the time of rescue, the health screening aspect of Embark’s product made it the best choice for us. We swabbed the dog’s cheeks and sent the samples in. Within weeks, we received an alert the results were ready. Since Scott and I wanted to take part in the guessing fun, we decided to not look at the breed results. We asked our trusted friend, Alexandra, to hold the results and help us organize the logistics for the guessing portion of the party.
We opened our party by playing a fun game. Inspired by The Office. I created dog-themed stickers; players were randomly given a sticker on their back, and were not able to look at it. Their objective was to be the first player to figure out what person/place/thing was on their sticker. They could ask three “yes” or “no” questions to each person they spoke to. The winner won a special prize.
To help attendees guess, we created a slideshow with different traits of the dogs that we thought might hint to their breeds. Some additional details of our party included Scott and I wearing custom made shirts with Brezel’s and Schnitzel’s faces on them, giving attendees “Team Brezel” and “Team Schnitzel” stickers to wear, and serving dog themed food (hot dogs, puppy chow, etc!).
We needed an easy way to have people submit their guesses. We decided to use a Google Form so that even those that could not attend the party could participate. We encouraged participation by announcing a prize - winners would be hosted to all-expenses paid brunch with Brezel and Schnitzel.
“We recognized that we would not have the love of our two dogs without the tremendous efforts of the rescue and raised over $450 in donations for Westside German Shepherd Rescue.”
Whistle Blowers
What your pet's activity level can reveal about their health
These days, wearable tech is all the rage. Whether we’re talking basic fitness trackers that help us keep tabs on our daily step count or how long it took us to fall asleep last night, our obsession with the numbers all boils down to getting - and staying - healthy. But, fitness trackers aren’t just for humans anymore, Toto.
Two of our very own Kibble & Dribble paw-staffers volunteered to sport spiffy Whistle FIT collar fitness trackers for the sake of science. Their owner - and KB contributing writer, Pauline Campos - agreed to participate in a study done by Banfield Hospital, Whistle FIT, and the Pet Insight Project (all part of the Mars Petcare family), who partnered to analyze data from over 30,000 participating dogs and examine the correlation between activity and overall health.
Pauline fills us in on what these trackers revealed about her pets’ health and wellness and why corporate America thinks this information is so valuable for pet owners and the veterinary industry. (Note: study participants received free Whistle FIT trackers, as well as milestone rewards such as a canine DNA test.)
Lord Nibbler, age 4.
K&D: Fill us in from the beginning; how did you get involved with this study?
Pauline Campos: My dogs, Finnigan and (Lord) Nibbler, are patients with Banfield Pet Hospital. We received an email inviting us to participate. I’m all about using the data from my Apple Watch to meet my activity and sleep goals, so I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.
K&D: What kind of data did they ask you to record?
PC: We were asked to record the pups’ basic daily activity total via their Whistle FITs, as well as monitoring their scratching, eating, and licking behaviors (a bit of extra work on my part).
K&D: OK, so were there any big revelations or surprises?
PC: It was really eye-opening to see that my dogs meet or exceed their activity goals on the days that I am most active. Deadline days crunching out assignments used to mean that they just got the bare minimum outside, but now that I have the visual with the Whistle Fit data shown in the app on my iPhone, I can proudly say that the trend these days is both dogs crushing their daily goals. And considering Finnigan is turning 17 in a few weeks, that’s saying something! Both of my dogs have a 30-minute daily activity goal, and my competitive nature means that I’m setting hourly timers to take a break, grab their leashes, and head outside just for the sake of earning the activity milestone badges.
K&D: What inspired the study?
David Allen (Product Manager, Pet Insight Project): Early on, the study was talked about as a “check engine light” for pet owners. Few of us really understand the workings of a car engine, so thankfully there is a check-engine light that lets us know when there is an issue with the vehicle. The same concept is true for managing dog health! Dogs can’t talk, and not many of us are equipped to diagnose canine health issues based on observation alone, so wouldn’t it be amazing if we could create a kind of “check engine” light for dog health based on wearable data?
K&D: How are researchers gathering information from participants?
DA: Our team distributes thousands of Whistle FIT devices each month to owners of patients at Banfield Pet Hospital who have given us permission to examine their dog’s Banfield health records. In addition to the wearable data and electronic health record data, our participants are constantly giving us feedback on our newest features. Wearable data, electronic health records, and participant feedback combined gives us an incredibly valuable database that we spend much of our time mining for insight.
K&D: Is the Whistle FIT tracker available to the public?
Kathy Sanders (CMO, Whistle): All the features of the Whistle Fit tracker are available in our Whistle GO trackers. The Whistle GO trackers also include GPS tracking to allow you to keep an eye on your pet during the day; if they make a sneaky escape you can use live GPS tracking in the Whistle app to quickly locate them anywhere in the US.
K&D: How did you know you were on the right “track” by introducing the Whistle FIT to the market?
KS: In April of this year, Whistle conducted a survey of 1,000 U.S. pet owners which outlined their concerns, priorities and attitudes towards tracking and monitoring their pets. First of all, this survey revealed just how important our pets are in our lives today, with nearly half (49%) of respondents ranking their dog as a top-three concern in their lives. The top-ranked concerns were running away, health, and safety. Almost half (43%) of respondents stated they worry about their dog getting enough exercise.
Whistle FIT offers pet owners and researchers a window into the daily lives of pets, anywhere they go. Whistle FIT tracks your dog's activity in a simple mobile application so you can ensure your best friend gets the regular exercise needed to stay happy and healthy.
K&D: How important is daily activity when it comes to a dog’s overall health?
Emi K. Saito (Veterinarian with Banfield Pet Hospital): Regular, lifelong exercise is a critical part of any well-rounded dog’s lifestyle. It is important not only for building and maintaining healthy muscle mass, but it can help maintain your dog’s quality of life – and strengthen your bond with your pet. Just like people, inadequate activity levels can lead to excess weight. This excess weight has been linked to other serious diseases in pets, including arthritis, diabetes, breathing (or respiratory) problems, and heart disease… If your pet is overweight, and your veterinarian has ruled out underlying conditions like thyroid disease or osteoarthritis, …small changes can have big long-term health benefits. For example, start walking your dog a few extra blocks each day, let your dog play at the dog park with the other dogs a little longer, or utilize dog walking services in your area to get your dog out for an extra walk during the day. Once your dog’s weight goals are met, your commitment is not over – maintaining that healthy weight and body condition are as important as the process to get there. This journey is a great opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your dog, while supporting their health and quality of life.
While initially focusing on activity and GPS tracking, Whistle’s latest lineup of trackers — the Whistle GO and Whistle GO Explore — can also monitor changes in health related behaviors like sleeping, scratching and licking, offering pet owners more data to inform preventive care. The new trackers have a health-monitoring platform based on research from the Pet Insight Project. What’s new with the Whistle GO and GO Explore is the ability to see a health report from your dog on a weekly basis. The tracker looks at licking, scratching, sleeping, and more, and then alerts pet owners if there are changes in these behaviors. If your dog is scratching or self-licking more than usual, it will alert you. You can then take the information-packed reports that are emailed to you and forward them to your veterinarian to identify the cause.
Whistle GO and GO explore are available via Whistle’s website and on Amazon. Whistle FIT is available to pets & their people who join the Pet Insight Project.
South Florida Animal Rescues Provide Aid to Bahamian Neighbors
Hurricane Dorian left the Bahamas with catastrophic damage
As the news and images began coming in over social media during what would normally be a celebratory holiday weekend, it became clear that the damage caused by Hurricane Dorian would be catastrophic.
While the entire state of Florida was placed under a state of emergency and coastal residents braced for the worst themselves, they watched in horror as the Bahama Islands were pummeled by a record-breaking Category 5 storm. After a brutal 48 hours with almost no communication, the desperate pleas for help started to emerge.
As a result, many Floridians are reaching out to help. Several local animal rescues and volunteers have mobilized to begin collecting supplies to send over, as well as make arrangements to bring back surviving dogs and cats.
Bullies n Beyond, Paw Patrol and South Florida Lending Hands are all animal rescues teaming up to support the North Abaco Potcake Rescue. They started collecting on Thursday and have already received much needed supplies. The plan is to charter a flight to bring it over, but they are still waiting to hear where they can land safely.
Due to the wait, the donations need to be stored somewhere safe, and the orgs have obtained a storage facility to hold the goods until they be safely delivered. Once it’s dropped off, the plane can be filled with dogs, who will be cared for by local fosters until they can be adopted out to new homes.
“We have a cargo plane lined up (and reserved) to assist us! They will transport 2,500lbs of supplies to the Bahamas. We just need to wait till the airport gives us the green light. Flight will be departing from FLL.” - Vicki DeLuca, Bullies -n- Beyond
As of Friday, 9/6/19 the most dire supplies needed are bungee cords, battery operated fans, batteries and rubbing alchol.
Monetary donations are critical in order to ensure they can charter enough flights necessary (fuel, insurance, etc) maintain the storage unit and provide care for the incoming dogs.
You can use paypal - BulliesnBeyond@gmail.com
If you are interested in fostering one of the incoming dogs, contact BulliesnBeyond@gmail.com.
“We have been working NON-STOP to make this happen but we can’t do it alone, we need help.”
USPS Releases Working Dog Stamps
Three cheers for our nation’s military heroes
Last week the United States Postal Service issued their latest collection of Forever stamps, with a salute to our nation’s military and working dogs.
In honor of our nation’s brave and loyal canines, each booklet will contain an image of a German Shepherd, Dutch Shepherd, Labrador and Belgian Malinois. Dogs have been essential memnbers of our military armed forces and have served alongside soldiers since World War I. Today, the 341st Training Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base outside of San Antonio, TX, trains military dogs and their handlers.
You can purchase your own set at the USPS store.
The release was celebrated with an event at CHI Health Center in Omaha, NE
Skechers and Petco Team Up for Fashion Collab
Two major retailers team up to support animals in need
Popular sneaker brand Skechers has teamed up with pet retailer Petco to launch a new line of BOBS footwear and coordinating collars, leashes and harnesses at more than 600 participating Petco stores and online. For every purchase, the two companies will make a donation to the Petco Foundation.
“Having BOBS for Dogs and BOBS for Cats products available in Petco for the first time will introduce BOBS’ philanthropic movement to a new audience who may not be familiar with our efforts to help shelter animals....” ”
Since 2016, Skechers has donated more than $3.4 million to support shelter pets, funds which have helped more that half a million pets in the U.S. The PetCo Foundation is an indepedent, non-profit that has invested more than $250 million since it was created in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. They work with and support thoursands of local animal welfare groups across the country and through their in-store adoption events, help find homes for more than 400,000 animals each year.
“We’ve never sold human shoes at Petco before, but we think pet parents will love the ability to combine their own BOBS from Skechers styles, with matching collars, leashes and harnesses....”
If you’d like to learn more about how Skechers works to help animals and children around the world, you can read more here.
Pawty in a Box
Celebrating dogs one party at a time
Does the idea of throwing a birthday or anniversary party for your dog seem silly? We don’t think so, either!
When we first heard about Mandy Diaz’ company, Pawty in a Box, we were intrigued. And, then excited. I mean, how cute is the idea of throwing your bestie - the most deserving of them all - a party to celebrate his/her special day.
Mandy launched her Miami-based company on Valentine’s Day, 2014, inspired by her own dog, Nouba, and her desire to throw him a party after hearing of someone else doing the same for their dog. Unable to find the kind of cute accessories she was looking for, Mandy decided to create them herself.
Each kit comes with invitations, party hats, bowls, treat bags and other accessories. Boxes are available in two sizes.
KB: When you launched your company, what did you think the response would be?
MD: The question I really asked myself was, ‘how many dog moms like me existed out there, that celebrated their pups?’ Many call us crazy dog moms, but I don’t really like that expression. We are not crazy, we just know how to express that love and let everyone know how much we love our dogs while we are at it!
KB: Were you surprised at the response?
MD: Absolutely! The response has been great. In the beginning, it was a challenge because the product did not exist in the market, so trying to create the need and explain why consumers needed it was definitely a challenge. It has definitely been a learning process! When somoene would open the boxes, I held by breath and watched carefully for their expressions, but I have recieved nothing but love!
KB: When did you realize that you were really on to something?
MD: After attending and exhibiting at Global Pet Expo in Orlando. Not only was there no other product like mine, but design-wise, I also knew I was within a small group of companies that were really pushing the envelope to cater to stylish and trendy dog parents who, not only wanted a quality product, but a prodcut that fit their lifestyles and looked great on their social media pages as well. After all, many of our clients have Instagram pages for their pups; our boxes make their special celebrations a beautifully styled “Pawty.”
KB: How did you find running the business end of things - did you have a sales or marketing background when you started?
MD: Actually, yes. My career began in producing events for the nightlife industy in Puerto Rico. We curated experiences for the attendee, from the flyer/promo to the actual event itself, everything was themed out. Years later, I switched to the vendor side of event production, still working on the design aspect of the event, but in a different manner. I am in sales as well. It is a career that I love and has opened many doors for me, including this new venture in my life. Having a creative outlet has always pushed me further, and now that I get to create a beautiful product that celerates the life of a dog, I mean, it’s absolute perfection!
KB: How many pawty kits do you offer?
The new, unicorn-themed decor.
MD: We currently have six themes and will be launching a seventh one shortly! The first five have some kind of dog icon and a beautiful color palette to compliment any customization. They are all ready for customization if our clients want to bring in additional items like cakes and cookies. For example, we had a client request a Sex & the City theme, so they purchased our Black Tie Pawty Kit and we recommended carrying the theme through to the food - the birthday cake had the NYC cityscape, the cupcakes had fun themed toppers, and the cookies were Cosmopolitans. We have received many requests for a Unicorn theme, so this was the first specific theme we launched, and our next will be a vibrant donut theme. I really can’t wait for everyone to see it!
KB: Do you design all the boxes?
MD: Yes, I do, being in the events industry and loving fashion, we are always looking at how trends are changing the market. With this in mind, we will continue to design looks that are unique and exclusive to the brand while being bold, fun, and happy!
KB: What are your plans for the future/expansion?
MD: I would definitely love to expand the collection and offer items within each themed box that go beyond the party, but I am taking it one step at a time and really focusing on party decor. That’s what I do best and what I am sticking to for the time being.
Nouba passed away in 2016, but his legacy lives on as the star of the Pawty in a Box logo. This is Mandy with her new dog, Beau Handsome.
“Nouba used to go to daycare, and one day his “teacher” said that a lady was having a birthday for her dog. Since I worked in event planning, I looked at her and was like “Wait, I’m celebrating his birthday, too.” Let’s be real, this other dog mom could not “out birthday” me - I’m the event girl! So I whipped up a party in no time with the help of friends and family. That’s when I realized there wasn’t anything on the market for birthday parties for dogs - much less anything pretty that I would purchase. And, that’s where the idea came from! ”
The Great Bear Rainforest
Now at IMAX Theaters
Tucked away on Canada’s remote Pacific Coast is the Great Bear Rainforest, home to an array of wildlife including the white “Spirit Bear,” the rarest bear on Earth. It is the larget temperate coastal rainforest in the world and has remained relatively unchanged for more than 10,000 years under the careful care of the indigenous First Nations people. It is now the subject of a new documentary, The Great Bear Rainforest, showing in 3D at IMAX theaters across the country.
Director Ian McAllister - who has lived and worked in the area for 30 years - and his crew spent three years filming throughout the remote reaches of the forest, and captured the ocean world, the salmon river valleys, and the ice-capped peaks of the Coast Mountains. Their unprecedented footage of the Spirit Bear, grizzly and black bears, sea otters and humpback whales is breath-taking.
“The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the last truly wild places left on Earth, and has immense value both ecologically and culturally. Many people don’t know about this ancient rainforest and the indigenous people who have helped protect it for thousands of years.”
A Spirit Bear
The filmmakers shot four terabytes of film over three years in order to capture the dramatic landscape that ultimately fills 40 minutes of compelling story. The Black bears in this region are genetically different from those found in other parts of the country; with a genetic mutation occuring in some that has caused the fur to turn white. The light color camoflauges the bear while hunting for salmon - the predator virtually disappears against the cloudy sky, resulting in a much geater catch :)
This region has had the longstanding benefit or remaining relatively untouched for thousands of years, but global warming and logging has started to take it’s toll. Another problem for Grizzly bears in particular, is the sport of trophy hunting. With the help of First Nations, however, a ban on such hunting has been put in place, with the support of the local government.
The Great Bear Rainforest is narrated by actor Ryan Reynolds with a score by Academy Award winning composer Hans Zimmer. Director Ian McAllister is a co-founder and Executive Director of the wildlife conservation organization Pacific Wild. He is an award-winning photographer, filmmaker and author of nine books. He is also a Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers and the Royal Geographical Society.
You can learn more about the film - and watch the trailer - at Great Bear Rainforest Film. Prints of the images shared below can also be purchased at Pacific Wild. All photos are courtesy of Ian McAllister.
Special thanks to AutoNation IMAX Theater at the Museum of Discovery & Science.
From the Meat Trade to Loving Homes
Rescue + Freedom Project
Four lucky pups arrived in Los Angeles last week, rescued from the horrific South Korean meat trade. Getting dogs out of the most dangerous circumstances is the main mission of Shannon Keith, founder of Rescue + Freedom Project.
For about a year now, she and her organization have been focused on getting dogs out of China and Korea, where the dog meat trade is thriving. It’s hard for Westerners to imagine, but in certain Eastern communities, dog meat is highly valued and is often traded and served in a sort of underground or “black market.”
Freddie, May, Taylor and Johnnie arrived in Los Angeles on Jan. 18, 2019
Through the help and dedication of rescuers and volunteers on the ground locally, RFP is able to safely negotiate the release and transport of animals and help get them into loving foster homes in the U.S. This latest effort, dubbed “Bohemian Woof-soody” brought four dogs (named after the members of Queen) who are all just looking for someone to love, to Los Angeles, with the help of another non-profit, Koni.
No stranger to dangerous and high-profiile missions, Shannon became involved in animal rescue nearly ten years ago with the Beagle Freedom Project, whose main objective was rescuing dogs used for laboratory testing in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. (Beagles became the dog of choice for many testing programs due to their friendly and docile nature). She started with one lab, and eventually grew it to include a network who were willing to agree to turn over dogs “when they were done with them,” instead of slating them for euthenasia.
Last week, the RFP had a crew on the ground to welcome these four sweet dogs - who were likely pets before being stolen and held on a meat farm - to their new homes in the United States. Watch the video below to see their arrival.
“Almost 9 years later, we are still getting animals out labs,” Shannon explains, “but we’ve also changed a lot of legislation and the consciousness. We are creeping slowly towards eliminating animal testing altogether.”
Watch as these four dogs arrive in Los Angeles and prepare for their new lives in loving foster homes. #happytails
Beleaf in You
Natural skincare for pets
Rhonda Taassa’s Golden Retriever, Rocco, had been suffering from chronic skin issues since he was a puppy. For years they went to different vets and tried different solutions, only to be disappointed in the results each time.
Rhonda and Rocco. All Beleaf’s products are paraban and cruelty-free and vegan.
“We tried steroids and steroid shots. We went to holistic vets, you name it, nothing worked. For four years we went around and around.”
Rhonda decided to experiment with Moringa oil after hearing about how it had helped humans suffering from chronic skin problems like excema and psoriasis. To her delight, the oil seemed to calm the flare ups, and eventually, eliminated Rocco’s problem altogether. It’s been almost one year, and he is totally allergy-free.
Rhonda began researching how and where to source the highest quality oils (it turns out, Sri Lanka) and formulated a shampoo and conditioner first, working with a chemist.
“I’ve seen it clear up spider and insect bites, as well as have an amazing effect on their coats.”
The company stands by it’s product’s true label claim of having the highest quality available - cold-pressed, cultivated and produced without pesticides or radiation, and using a carrier oil (CBD) of similar distinction.
The team is currently working on developing a balm for the paws and nose, which will be availabe soon. In them meantime, you can find the products online, at Belaf in You, or - for those local to South Florida - at Greenlands market in DelRey Beach, FL, DelRey Shore Pharmacy, and Salon Bark. Additionally, they will soon be expanding and working with a co-op in Brooklyn.
Breed Bling
Carrie Cramer Fine Jewelry
Carrie Cramer wasn’t a (self-proclaimed) crazy dog lady until she got her Schnauzer, Atticus. She was a successful stylist with a thriving business in Los Angeles, catering to celebrity clientele.
Carrie and her dog, Atticus.
In 2016, however, inspired by her furry best friend, she combined her passion for creating art with her love of jewelry and styling. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Cramer’s breed-specific designs are available in variety of finishes (white, yellow and rose gold) and price points - ensuring that every dog lover can find their perfect match.
Visit Carrie Cramer Fine Jewelry to see more of her gorgeous designs and order your favorite! Free shipping is available 1/21 - 2/4/19. Just in time for Valentine’s Day. wink wink
Puppy Styled
A new book from Grace Chon
If you’re an animal lover or pet owner, it’s likely that you’ve seen Grace Chon’s work. If you’re also addicted to social media, then you’ve definitely seen her work.
As a popular pet photographer based in Los Angeles, Grace became well-known for capturing the intimate and joyful relationship between pets and their owners. By combining her unique ability to connect with animals, a well-crafted personal style, and an eye for good design, Grace created her own signature style that soon became sought after by celebrities and big name brands.
With a client list that includes Purina, Fancy Feast, and Jax and Bones, and celebrities like Chris Pratt and Chelsea Handler (see her full client list here), Grace had undoubtedly achieved success, but was not content to continue following the same path forever.
In order to evolve - yet stay true to her passions - Grace began to seek outside projects and partners who shared the same genuine love of animals and understanding of nuanced art and photography. This led to successful collaborations with Nintendo of America and Oh Joy! and eventually, book projects.
Her first book, “Waggish: Dogs Smiling for Dog Reasons” was published last year and gave her a taste of the publishing process. Grace knew that whatever came next, would have to come organically - as all her great ideas do.
A “Puppy” is Born
Cover boy Biggie Smalls
Her lastest work, “Puppy Styled: Japanese Grooming Before and After,” features pictures of dogs styled using the unique form of Japanese dog grooming - a relatively new sensation here in the US.
Grace worked with California retailer, Healthy Spot using some of their groomers trained in the specifics of the style, and their work space. The team started out with nine dogs and worked swiftly on a day the store was closed for regular business. Those initial shots were all Grace needed to confirm that her instincts were right. She posted the pics to her social media accounts and they quickly went viral. BoredPanda reached out. Once they featured the photos, things sort of exploded.
Ultimately, Grace held three more photoshoots and then spent months retouching the pictures, in order to achieve the final shots that appear in the book.
“I love this Japanese grooming style. It’s elevating the idea of dogs’ before-and-after pictures. Philosophically, this aligns exactly with what I was trying to do in my work. I pull out the things that make each dog unique. I try to capture that in a still frame. That’s what Japanese style dog grooming tries to do, too.”
“While Western grooming is done to breed standards, with the Japanese style, there are no rules, except to make the dog look as cute as possible.”
Groomer credits: Cindy Reyes, Alyson Ogimachi, Koko Fukaya, Cameron Adkins, Donna Owens, Patricia Sugihara, Rebecca Bradford.
PetCon 2018
Insta-famous pets take over NYC!
We had the pleasure of attending the second annual PetCon in NYC on Nov. 17-18, held at the Jacob Javitz Center. The conference was created by Loni Edwards who runs The Dog Agency, the first management company dedicated solely to animal clients.
“The World’s Most Influential and Social Savvy Pets”
Instagram stars filled a section of the monstrous Javitz Center, along with corporate sponsors such as Dyson and Facebook, rescue celebrities such as Amanda Giese of Animal Planet’s Amanda to the Rescue, and dogs available for adoption through the Foster Dogs organization. Needless to say, we had more than enough to occupy, entertain and educate us about the future of pet ownership and influence.
Even though the sheer joy of spending two days at a conference where animals were as welcomed as the human guests, would have been enough, we did have a few favorite experiences that we wanted to share with you.
Dyson caught our attention because, let’s be real, dog hair is an issue. They were promoting their latest and greatest designs, created especially for picking up pet hair and dander.
This machine not only sucks up dog hair in a snap, but tackles environmental pollutants as well. Go to www.dyson.com/petcon and you’ll get discounts on some of their most pet-friendly options. Use code PETCON18, but hurry, the offer ends 12/1/18!
“Humans and dogs share 84% of their DNA”
“Custom meds, mixed by experts”
Wisdom Panel, Canine DNA Test, identifies more than 350 breeds and screens for up to 150 genetic conditions. Most dog DNA tests are notoriously inaccurate, so we were excited to hear about how thorough this one sounds. Go to wisdompanel.com to learn more and get $15 off with code PETCON15.
Mixlab is a new pharmaceutical company that will custom blend your pet’s medications. WHAT? Pretty impressive, right? Similar to a compound pharmacy, they can either flavor the prescription, turn pills into treats, and/or provide liquid or gummy formulas. They even provide same day delivery to your door. A real game changer.
Get 10% off a custom order using code: MIXLAB10.
Facebook Watch’s booth gave pups their chance to shine
Did you know? The World’s Most Amazing Dog is an interactive, competition show that allows users to vote for the winner!
And, Finally - The Stars of Instagram!
There is no doubt that these canine superstars are the big draw here. Two days of meet- and-greets with some of social media’s most popular pets just proves that animals have the ability to capture the hearts and attention of a very dedicated audience. So, as we made our way around the floor, we couldn’t help but snap some pics of these adorable - and influential -fuzzy faces.
@thedailywalter
aka Walter Cronkite
Brooklyn-based dog-at-large
@ralphiethenewfandtheboss
Newfies! Ralphie & Boss’ parents quit their jobs and sold their house and are driving through all 50 states. Join them on their journey!
@theo_thegsd
Theo Hugo Koz, German Shepherd
We felt a little guilty cheating on our own Kibble and Dribble with this guy, but he was just so charming, we couldn’t resist!
@bandanajax
Jax Teller Morrow. Golden Retriever. Loves balls.
As you can see here, his smile is infectious.
@reagandoodle
A doodle with a heart for foster care and adoption (of humans)! His new book and calendar are now available!
@Gonetothesnowdogs
These two famous huskies are taking a look at the line of adoring fans waiting to meet them. Smile for the camera!