Lucky Pup

Hold on...we just discovered another amazing pet travel site.

Check out Luxury PAW (pet-friendly accommodations worldwide).

Traveling with our Babies

A great reference site for those of you traveling with your dogs this spring!

Can you tell it's a rainy day?

You have to check this out. Just brightened my day!

No Matter How Much I Hate Rain....

I will never stop loving how CUTE my Yorkie Cohen looks in her Wagwear raincoat!!

 

Frenchie Lovers Unite!

I have SO many Frenchie-loving customers I had to share this tidbit. Here is a great Frenchie blog that I was just told about....enjoy!!!
wagbark.com

Dogs in NYC

So I just got back from a long weekend in NYC and could not get over how many dogs I saw on my trip! I lived there back in 2002-2003 and I guess I'm just more aware of dogs now as a dog store owner, because it seemed as though the dog population has tripled! Big dogs, little dogs and even a Pit Bull riding down 3rd Ave with her head out the window wearing a turtleneck sweater and the same Wagwear collar that my pit bull wears! I WISH I had been able to catch a photo of this as my cab zoomed by. It looked just like Rachel Ray's pit bull that was on the cover of Modern Dog (who also wears the same Wagwear collar)! Who knows! Maybe it was! Anything can happen in NYC! And I couldn't help but capture the little dogs above in their fabulous red plaid coats waddling down the sidewalk at a snails pace. Out for their morning stroll on the New York streets. What a truly different life the dogs of NYC live.

Holy Dachshunds!

We just couldn't resist sharing this bright wallpaper from SB2 Designers covered in one of our favorite breeds! Wanting another breed? Send them any high-resolution image and they will custom print you your own wallpaper!

DogTown - National Geographic

I caught this show on the National Geographic channel one night randomly, and fell in love with it! Not a show for the faint of heart, but definitely one for dog lovers, DogTown follows the trials and tribulations of The Best Friends Animal Society in Southern Utah.

Every year, countless numbers of dogs are given up on.
They are unwanted, abandoned for medical or behavioral reasons, the result of extreme abuse, or the unfortunate victims of circumstance, many of these dogs will be unable to find permanent homes, and euthanized when individuals and institutions throughout the country, and the world, are unable to care for them any longer. For many of these dogs, Dogtown represents a dog’s last chance for redemption, hope, or survival. Dogtown is a last resort.

DOGTOWN follows these dogs from their initial arrival at Best Friends, through their various medical and/or behavioral transformations, all the way through adoption, a lifetime spent at Dogtown, or in rare medical cases, death. While most of these dogs deserve homes—unfortunately, not all will find them.

Through the eyes of various Dogtown staff members, The National Geographic Channel will follow these dogs’ stories—learning different methods to combat behavioral issues, and various symptoms and treatments for a myriad of medical conditions, with the hope that eventually, these dogs will undergo a transition that somehow makes them, more ‘adoptable.’

Can Dogtown’s veterinary staff stabilize an older dog with a brain tumor so he’ll have a chance to live out the remainder of his years in the comfort of someone’s home? Is there anyone out there, who would consider adopting a neurologically-impaired dog, who stumbles into things, and drools constantly? Is there any hope of change, for an abused dog, who doesn’t know any better than to protect itself through biting viciously?

A story of second-chances, DOGTOWN is about people who believe in, and inspire possibility— and of dogs who win against the odds.

Fridays, 10 pm ET/PT, new episodes starting March 20th!

Wynn With Dogs - Podcast

Hey guys, check out my friend and local animal massage therapist Raquel Wynn on her weekly podcast!

Join host, Raquel Wynn, as she focuses on the ins and outs of exercise, stretching, nutrition, and alternative modalities of health for our canine companions.  Learn the proper exercise protocols for every pup, from the couch canine to the canine athlete.  Discover the importance of supplementation and appropriate nutrition for optimal longevity.  Find out ways to prevent injuries and illness in your pooch.  Ascertain methods of rehabilitation that are safe and side effect free.  Listen in as Raquel talks with various experts in the field of health, from vets to massage therapists, from trainers to members of canine athletic teams, all with the common goal of creating a healthy, happy environment for your hounds.  Take charge of your dog’s health and ensure a long, rewarding life for Fido.  Raquel offers a refreshing perspective that will surely be eye opening.  Tune in and you too can win with dogs!

The Good, Bad & The Ugly - Your Dog's Food

Here is a great point of reference for what to look for on your dog's food ingredient list. Most people don't know what to look for....and definitely don't know how to tell what's good, bad & downright ugly. Print this out and take it with you next time you go food shopping! Remember, typically the first 5 ingredients are going to be the most important because they will make up the majority of the food. You want to see at least 2-3 good protein sources (meat, meat-meal) in your first 5-6 ingredients. And I feel it's important to note that "meat meal" is a fine ingredient and very healthy as long as it does not fall in the "unidentified species" category. So, for example: chicken meal = GREAT. poultry meal = not so great. Also, always stay clear of any wheat, corn or soy ingredients, as these are VERY common allergens in dogs.

The SNIF Tag

This is something I am DYING to try! The SNIF tag is a tracking device your dog wears around his neck that provides you with live data via an online community about what your dog is doing at any given time!  Is Fido sleeping? walking? running? This little tag will tell you, and tell you where he is doing it! Check out this great review done by one of our favorite doggy sites:  www.pamperedpuppy.com

With a price tag of $150, I feel that is not so bad for a device that is going to keep a watchful eye on your pup at all times! And please let us know if you try one!

NHA - Animal Welfare Awards

The Nashville Humane Association is inviting the public to nominate extraordinary pets and people for its annual Animal Welfare Awards program. Winners will be announced at the Annual Volunteer Awards in April. The Nashville Humane Association seeks public nominees in the following categories:

Heroic Pet of the Year

This award celebrates a special animal who has demonstrated remarkable efforts on behalf of humans through acts of service, heroism and devotion

Youth Animal Welfare Advocate of the Year

Recognizes a young person in our community who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to animals through acts of bravery, service, compassion or heroism

Julia Colton Award

First awarded in 1995, the Julia Colton Animal Welfare Volunteer Award is presented in honor of Julia Colton. A dedicated volunteer, mentor and animal welfare advocate, Mrs. Colton served as President of the Nashville Humane Association's volunteer organization for several years in the 1980s and was an active member of the Board of Directors until she became ill in 1989. Along with the Colton family, the Nashville Humane Association presents the Julia Colton Award to a volunteer whose commitment to the welfare of animals mirrors the contributions of the outstanding volunteer for whom this award is named.

Click here to download the nomination form

The deadline for nominations has been extended to March 2, 2009.

Westminister Kennel Club 2009

Just a reminder for those of you that want to watch!

USA Network and CNBC will be home to The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show presented by Pedigree®, for the 26th consecutive year in 2009.
USA Network and CNBC airs exclusive live coverage from Madison Square Garden on Monday, February 9, and USA Network airs exclusive live coverage on Tuesday, February 10.

NIGHT 1:
Monday, February 9
Hound, Terrier, Non-Sporting and Herding Groups
8-9 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network
9-11 p.m. (ET) live on CNBC

NIGHT 2:
Tuesday, February 10
Sporting, Working and Toy Groups, Best In Show
8-11 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network

Brilliant Design

I'm all about multi-purpose furniture, especially if you are trying to make things work in smaller spaces. So when I came across this cubby from Pottery Barn this morning, I fell in love!! Even better?? Right now it's on SALE!

Puppy Bowl!

For those of you into the Super Bowl or not....you will ALL love the Puppy Bowl playing this Sunday on Animal Planet! I watched it last year, and I'm telling you I could watch this show ALL DAY every day!  Make sure to check it out at home, or come check it out at Lucky Pup because we will have it on all afternoon!

People We Love - Two Elle

Thanks Two Elle for the Birthday Wishes! (and for being one of our FAVORITE places to shop in Nashville!) Where else could I find clothes that are fabulous yet dog-store friendly? Also, check out her "Family" page and you'll be happy to notice that the 9th member down is the furry kind! Many of you may recognize Fulton from Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams! We love Two Elle!

Picture I just had to share

If any of you have checked out photogrpaher Adrian Hitts blog, you have seen this picture, but in case you haven't.....have you ever seen such a doll baby??? Her dog Benny was kind enough to model our awesome Wagwear raincoats when he came in for a bath. Could he be any more perfect?

We Love Adrian Hitt Dogography!

She just posted some photos on her blog about her visit to Lucky Pup with her dog Benny. Go check it out!

Ahhhhh, warmth.

Hey guys, it's just too cold and I had to post a link to some GREAT heated dog beds to keep your babies warm! Check them out!

Is Your Pup a Cover Dog?

Nashville Paw Magazine is looking for a Cover Dog for their April 2009 Issue!

GRAND PRIZE
The Grand Prize winning pet will receive a free NashvillePAW cover shoot and portrait session courtesy of Adrian Hitt Photography and will be featured on the cover of our April 2009 issue! As a bonus, the proud parents of the winning pet will receive a pet portrait package. The winning photo will also be showcased in our April 2009 results feature.

RUNNER-UP
The Runner-Up will receive a one-year free subscription to NashvillePAW Magazine and a stylish NashvillePAW canvas tote. The runner-up photo will also be showcased in our April 2009 results feature.

CATEGORY WINNERS
In addition to choosing the top two winners, we'll also be selecting winners in the following categories. The winning entries will be showcased in our April 2009 results feature.

Best Dog Photo
Cutest Puppy Photo
Best Cat Photo
Cutest Kitten Photo
Best Horse Photo
Best Companion Farm Animal Photo
Best Small or Exotic Pet Photo
Best Dressed Pet Photo
Best Furry Friends Photo (Multiple Pets)
Best Pet & People Photo
Best Sleeping Pet Photo
Best Pet-In-Action Photo
Goofiest Pet Photo
Most Artistic Pet Photo

Photo submission must be received no later than 4pm on January 30, 2009.

Winners will be selected by the NashvillePAW editorial and design staff. Winners will be notified by phone and/or email on or before February 5, 2009. Grand prize winner must agree to participate in a cover pet photography shoot to take place on or before February 20, 2009.

TWO WAYS TO ENTER

ENTER VIA EMAIL:
It's easy: simply email your entry to PawPhotoContest@gmail.com! Attach your pet photo as a jpeg file (at 300dpi and at least 4 inches wide) and include up to 50 words about your pet. Please include your pet's name, breed (if applies) and age, as well as your name, address and phone number.

Note: You may only attach ONE photo per email entry! Email entries with multiple photos will be disqualified.

ENTER BY MAIL:
Mail us your print photo (or digital photo on CD) along with your name, address, phone number as well as your pet's name and breed (if applicable) to:

NashvillePaw Magazine
PHOTO CONTEST
PO Box 160087
Nashville, TN 37216

Print photographs must be a minimum 4 inches wide, printed on photo quality paper and must be clean, clear and free of bend marks or scratches. Digital photographs must be saved in jpeg format at 300dpi and at least 4 inches wide.

Note: You may only enclose ONE photo per mailed entry! Entries with multiple photos will be disqualified. Please note that we are unable to return photos. Please keep a copy for yourself.

My Pit Bulls Favorite Game

Pit Bull & Kitten!

Some of you know how much I love my pit bull Lucy, and watching this video makes me love the breed even more!!

ID Tags

So I've had a few conversations lately with customers about ID Tags and some tips and tricks that they've learned, and I thought I'd share them with you! I've never used these personally, so I'm not sure of their effectiveness, but I did think that they were very interesting ideas!

1) I had a customer tell me that her friend recently had someone in their neighborhood try to claim her dog as their own. They learned the dogs name off of the dogs ID tag, and therefore could easily call it by name. By leaving your dogs name off of the ID tag, this reduces the risk of someone trying to claim ownership of your dog, reducing the risk of dog theft.

2) Is your dog micro-chipped? Include the dogs microchip number on their ID tag!

3) Want to increase the chance that your lost dog will be returned? Put the message "Dog Needs Meds" on their ID tag! This should encourage someone to return the dog, and hopefully put a rush on the process!

Picture Contest for Kids! Me and My Bully

Bless the Bullys has a new picture contest called Me and My Dog. Me and my Dog is a wonderful opportunity for children to show their artistic talents and their love for their bully all at the same time! 

The Me and My Dog contest is in conjunction with the upcoming Third Annual National Pit Bull Awareness Day, and will run through October 2009. My goal is to create a “picture wall” for this year’s NPBAD to display the pictures received and to allow the public to see these family dogs through the eyes of the children who love them.

Finally, with respect to the “contest” - 12 pictures will be selected to create a 2010 calendar. Special consideration for the calendar will be given to any child who has experienced the pain and heartbreak of losing a family companion to breed specific legislation.

Bless the Bullys is accepting drawings, paintings or any kind of artwork submitted by children under the age of 16. Children can submit as many pictures as they want. When submitting artwork, please include a brief paragraph about the artist and the dog pictured. All artwork will become property of Bless the Bullys and will not be returned. The contest is open to all children, regardless of their artistic ability or talent level…we want to make a statement - not put the pictures on display at The Met (although that is a grand idea!)

Contact me at  jodi_preis@yahoo.com for more details and for the address to send pictures.

Pillow Pillow Pillow

I love anything to do with dogs and a sense of humor, and these pillows sure do have both! Either in singles, or litters, these pillows  from Pillow Pillow Pillow will make a statement on any couch or sofa! I think one of these is on my new wish list...and I think I'm partial to Cha Cha and Zilla (in case anyone was wondering...ha!). And a really cool bonus: for every new series of pillows, they host Casting Calls, so your dog could be part of the Pillow Pillow Pillow family simply by submitting their photo!

And on another note....their Pug blik wall graphics are to die for! So check those out too!

My pit bull looks like she's ready to go swimming.

And she's not happy about it! To keep Lucy from scratching at a sore that does not want to heal, this is what my husband went and got her today. She's not happy about it, but I do have to say that this is one step up from the infamous cone! (notice her little sister Cohen peering out at her...laughing I'm sure....from inside the house)

Have you ever seen a Pug Rocket?

Change of Hours

Starting tomorrow, we are going to try out a slightly different set of hours (nothing major)....at least until the next time change. Thanks guys!

Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 11:00 - 6:30
Saturday: 10:00 - 7:00
Sunday: 12:00 - 5:00

So I got a new camera....

So I got a new camera for Christmas and I think what I was most excited about is being able to use this AWESOME camera to take customers (dogs) pictures, rather than my iphone! So next time you stop in, make sure you ask me to take a picture with my gorgeous new Canon Powershot G10!! (Hopefully I will know how to use it by then....hehe).

The photo I took above is one of the first dog photos I took with it...it's amazing what a really nice camera will do to an amateurs photos!

Kristin