Friday, December 31, 2010

"Fixing" MO Prop B the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act

Here we go again.  I'd shoved my soapbox into a closet for the holidays and hoped it might stay there awhile.  I figured I'd take some time off to play with our new puppy and enjoy the holidays with my family.  With recent developments regarding Missouri Proposition B - the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act - I decided I might as well end the year talking about it.  Again.

Last night in Boliver, Missouri, a forum was held to discuss "fixing" MO Prop B and or repealing it.  According to Springfield's KY3 newsteam member, Mike Landis, the forum was attended by ranchers, farmers and other MO residents.  MO State Senator Robert Mayer claims some things in Prop B need to be clarified.  MO State Senator- elect Mike Parsons thinks it can be "fixed. "

Parsons outlined his ideas at the Bolivar forum and promised to work toward implementing those possible changes.  “When you start limiting the private sector in what they can own and sell, I think that’s a problem,” Parson explained.

Just as they did prior to the election, opponents to Prop B are saying it will cripple the dog-breeding industry in Missouri.   Prop B sets forth new regulations limiting the number of breeding dogs a facility can have (50), and mandates new minimum-space requirements for kennels holding the dogs. Many Missouri dog breeders claim the mandates, which are set to go into effect in November 2011, will force them to invest in expensive new facilities they can’t afford and they will have to go out of business.  Some Missouri farmers and ranchers also say it could lead to a slippery slope situation where rules could eventually be imposed on the cattle, pork, and poultry industry.

I agree with other Prop B supporters:  a vote is a vote.  The Missouri people passed this ballot initiative and their will should prevail.

The Missouri legislative session begins January 5 and there's a battle brewing.  Prop B goes into effect in Nov 2011, so there's plenty of time to tinker with it.  It's hard enough to live in the Puppy Mill Capital of the World.  Now I have to admit I live in a state where elected officials do not respect the will of the people and our state's constitution. 

Will there be a happy new year for the thousands of dogs currently residing in Missouri puppy mills?  We'll have to wait and see.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Merry Christmas from Talking Dogs at For Love of a Dog

Merry Christmas from all of us at For Love of a Dog!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Dog Song: A Jack Russell Christmas

It's not Saturday and this is not a dog song, but all of us at For Love of a Dog could not resist sharing this delightful Christmas dog video.  Afterall, it's Christmas Eve.  Sit.  Stay.  Relax for a moment and enjoy a Jack Russell dog hanging up his stocking, laying out a plate of cookies, and waiting for Santa Claus.  Merry Christmas!

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Dog Song: Black Dog featuring Jon Shelton

Okay, it's Saturday so For Love of a Dog has fetched another original dog song for you.  This one is a bit different since it features original art, as opposed to video shot of real dogs.  A dog story told in pictures and verse.  Sit.  Stay.  Relax and enjoy Black Dog featuring Jon Shelton

Friday, December 17, 2010

Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Jewelry makes a Great Christmas Gift

Skippy, Cocker Spaniel
puppy and yours truly
When I was a little girl we had a black Cocker Spaniel dog named Skippy.  What can I tell you, I liked peanut butter.  Skippy was a great little dog that played with all of the kids in the neighborhood.  For a few years he even graced the original logo here at For Love of a Dog.  If you've ever loved a Cocker Spaniel dog, then you know what a wonderful dog breed they are.  And if you have someone on your holiday gift list that has lost her heart to a Cocker Spaniel, then we have just the Christmas gift for them.

At For Love of a Dog we offer Cocker Spaniel necklaces, bracelets, pins and Christmas ornament in many Cocker Spaniel dog breed colors.  Blue roan, blondle, black, parti, and more.

How about this Cocker Spaniel dog breed necklace.  What a fabulous Cocker Spaniel dog breed sculpture. Beautifully hand sculpted and painted. True to AKC dog breed standards and absolutely wonderful in this handcrafted dog breed necklace.


Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Necklace from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & gifts
 I've hand wire wrapped this little Cocker Spaniel dog with sterling silver wire to dangle from a chubby Fancy Jasper heart in soft amber. Absolutely gorgeous natural Botswana Agate gemstone in swirls of amber, dove grey, taupe, caramel, fawn, and more are accented with sterling silver. The extender chain of this necklace is accented with more gems and a cute three dimensional dog bone.

Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Pin from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts

Speaking of black Cocker Spaniels... check out this beautiful black Cocker Spaniel dog breed pin.These handmade dog breed pins (brooches) are like no other I've ever seen. Entirely made by hand by a Michigan porcelain artist. Literally hand sculpted porcelain ceramic, hand glazed, and high fired. Such happy little dogs. Frankly, they are amazing works of dog art. Check out the details on this Cocker Spaniel dog breed pin.

If jewelry just won't do for your special dog lover, how about an American hand made dog breed Christmas ornament.  They look great on a Christmas tree, but can also be displayed year round.  Check out that darling dog bone dangle. Charming dog lover gift for yourself or a friend who loves a black and chocolate Cocker Spaniel dog.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Border Collie Dog Breed Jewelry - Great Christmas Gifts

I remember the first time I saw a Border Collie working some sheep.  My mouth dropped open in amazement and admiration.  I've loved this dog breed ever since.  Our Border Collie, Lizzie, was an abused and abandoned dog and it still thrills me that she chose me as her person.  Definitely one of the smartest dogs I've ever known and incredibly eager to please.  She loved herding our geese.  That came in handy when we all trooped down to the pond for a swim.  The geese, of course, never wanted to leave the water, but Lizzie saw to it that they got home again and back to their house for the night.

If you have someone on your holiday gift list who loves a Border Collie dog, we're pretty sure they'd enjoy a one of a kind piece of Border Collie dog breed jewelry or a hand made Border Collie dog Christmas ornament sculpture.
Border Collie Dog Breed Pin and Pendant
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts

Beautiful Border Collie dog pin (brooch) shown above can also be worn as a pendant. Not a flat cut out, but two dimensional.  Entirely hand made pin is hand cast in resin from a mould made from an original design clay sculpture. Airbrushed and detailed by hand. This line of our dog jewelry is made in the US and every effort is made to be true to dog breed standards.

The clasp of this Border Collie dog brooch has a built in pendant bail so it can be worn as either a pin or pendant depending on your mood. As a dog pendant it will look terrific on your chain, cord or ribbon. A wonderful gift for any Border Collie dog lover.  Yes, even men have been known to wear these dog breed pins.  They look great on a cap or hat!

For Love of a Dog Jewelry also offers this handcrafted Border Collie dog breed bracelet. This dog lover bracelet combines beads of red coral with sterling teeny jet black glass beads. Multiple charm dangles include: silver three dimensional dog bone, red jasper gemstone heart, and a wonderful Border Collie dog charm.


Red Coral Border Collie Dog Bone Bracelet
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
These Border Collie dog charms are entirely made by hand by an American artist. First a hand carved sculpture is created which is then used to create a mould. The dog charm is then hand cast in resin and air brush painted. They are then given a protective coating of lacquer so you can enjoy this dog breed jewelry for many years. Every effort is made to adhere to AKC and UKC Border Collie dog breed standards. Frankly, they are amazing works of dog art. Notice the bone structure, musculature and fur of the dog. I've tried to show the sculptural details in the photos of this Border Collie dog breed bracelet.

Border Collie dog breed Christmas ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
 We also suggest one of our Border Collie dog breed Christmas ornaments.  Check out that darling little dog bone dangle. This Border Collie dog holiday ornament is not a flat cut out.  It is two dimensional, molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. It is then carefully hand painted and /or airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging. Fetch For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts for all the dog lovers on your holiday shopping list.  Huge holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for best selection.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.  What are you waiting for!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

German Shepherd Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Ornament Gifts

German Shepherd Dog Silver Bracelet from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Here's a great Christmas gift idea for the German Shepherd dog lover on your holiday shopping list.  Handcrafted, one of a kind German Shepherd dog breed jewelry and Christmas ornaments from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & gifts.

Shown here is just one example of our German Shepherd dog bracelets.  It features a wonderful GSD dog charm. The charm is not a flat cut out, but actually has dimension. This little GSD dog sculpture is handmade of resin that is cast in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully air brush painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've combined this dog treasure with highly polished Black Onyx round gemstone beads, hand wire wrapped with silver jeweler's wire. In addition to the German Shepherd dog charm, other charms include a Black Onyx fat gemstone heart and a three dimensional silver dog bone. This handcrafted dog bracelet is one of a kind, just like your special Germand Shepherd dog. Show your love with a one of a kind dog breed bracelet.

Yes, we offer white German Shepherd dog jewelry and gifts, too.  How about this lovely handmade German Shepherd dog breed artist sculpture ornament for your Christmas tree or any time. Handcrafted by an American artist. Check out that darling dog bone dangle. Charming dog lover gift for yourself or a friend who loves a white German Shepherd dog.

White German Shepherd Dog Breed Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Not a flat cut out. This two dimensional GSD dog breed holiday ornament is molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. It is then carefully hand painted and airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging.

Not only is this a great gift for any white German Shepherd dog owner, but also a barking good gift for someone involved in German Shepherd dog breed rescue work.
Fetch more great German Shepherd dog lover Christmas gifts from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & gifts.  Holiday sale now in progress.  Shop now for best selection of our one of a kind artisan gift items.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with every purchase.

Human / Canine Charts are Wrong - My Dogs are Still Alive!

Lucy and Tucker
According to the charts, Tucker and Lucy are already dead.

Yesterday's mail brought a new issue of Healthy Pet, a publication we receive courtesy of our vet.  The cover of each issue includes a friendly reminder of vet related things we need to take care of soon.  In this case, the reminder was that Tucker is in need of his annual shots and a routine check-up. 

You may remember that Tucker celebrated his birthday in November.  His fourteenth birthday.  That's in human years.  You may also remember that his sister, Lucy celebrated her birthday this past July.  Her thirteenth birthday.  That's also in human years.

Since Tucker was a stray that showed up on our front porch when he was about 8-10 weeks old, we can't be sure of his parentage or breed background.  Definitely some Lab in there.  Maybe some Chow.  And when we watched the Schipperke at the National Dog Show, Gary and I both leapt to our feet exclaiming "Tucker!"   That dog looked like a smaller version of our beloved dog.  I say smaller because, though Tucker's weight varies, he averages around 75 pounds.

Lucy's background we know.  Her mama, Rosie, was a gorgeous purebred Golden Retriever.  Her daddy was a humongous black lab.  Lucy's weight runs about 90 pounds.

You're hoping this is leading to something... and it is.  This issue of Healthy Pet, Fall 2010, includes a rather good article regarding the health of senior pets.  Including a handy, dandy Human / Pet Age Analogy chart. 

According to the chart, Tucker and Lucy are both dead. 

The chart for dogs who weigh between 51 - 120 pounds stops at human age 12.   And at age twelve, a dog who weighs in that range would be equal to a human aged 94 years old.  In fact, a dog in that weight range is considered to be geriatric at age 8.

We all know that 7 times thing.  You know, 7 times the dogs age equals the human equivalent.  Using that method Tucker would be 98 years old;  Lucy would be 91 years old.

Granted, I'm no expert at these things.  However, I'm thinking to heck with age charts.   I know one thing for sure, though definitely in the Senior Pets category, Tucker and Lucy are very much still alive and bringing joy to my life. And I don't need a chart for that.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Keeshond Dog Breed Jewelry for Christmas Gifts

Keeshond Dog Breed Bracelet from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
Fetch barking good Christmas gifts for Keeshond dog lovers from For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  You'll find bracelets, necklaces, and pins featuring the Keeshond dog breed.  Unique, one of a kind, artisan handmade treats await you.

This handmade Keesond dog lover bracelet is just one example.  It includes a wonderful two dimensional Keeshond dog breed charm. The dog charm is handcrafted of hand cast resin from an orginal hand sculpted mold, then carefully air brush painted by hand. This Keeshond dog breed charm is highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've hand wire wrapped this little dog treasure with earthy warm gray Silverleaf Jasper and sleek metallic gray Hematite gemstone beads with silver jewelers wire. Extender charms include a Hematite gemstone heart and a little three dimensional silver dog bone Great neutral colors with a gorgeous Keeshond dog sculpture makes for beautiful dog lover jewelry and a fabulous gift. This bracelet would be great someone involved in Keeshond dog rescue work, too

For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts has been in business creating handcrafted art jewelry for dog lovers since 1991.  Unique, one of a kind items are limited in quantity.  Shop now for best selection.  Huge holiday sale now in progress.

Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Jewelry Christmas Gifts

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breed in the United States and have been listed in the top favorites for many years.  This breed is also a favorite at For Love of a Dog.  We've enjoyed the company of several Lab mixes and now have a Labrador Retriever puppy.  Though we admit to bias, we think Labrador Retriever dog breed jewelry would make a fabulous Christmas gift for someone on your holiday shopping list who's lost their heart to a Lab.
Chocolate Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Necklace
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Check out this wonderful chocolate Labrador Retriever dog breed necklace with handmade dog art sculpture pendant. Beautifully hand sculpted and painted by a American artist. The Labrador Retriever dog pendant is true to AKC dog breed standards and absolutely fabulous. You'll be amazed at the obvious care put into these little works of dog art.

I've hand wire wrapped this little dog with gold jeweler's wire to dangle from a pretty necklace. Lots of unusual, gorgeous Botswana Agate gemstone beads. Beautiful color swirls of rosie chocolate, white, caramel, gray and more. Then I added two wonderful three dimensional lamp work white dog bone beads. Gold accents. The extender chain is accented with another Botswana Agate gemstone bead and a cute three dimensional gold dog bone. Pretty Labrador Retriever dog jewelry coming and going. Barking good dog lover gift for anyone who loves a chocolate Lab dog.

Yellow Labrador Retriever Heart Dog Bone Bracelet
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Chocolate Lab not your color?  If you love a Labrador Retriever dog, this bracelet was handcrafted with you in mind. It features a wonderful yellow Larador Retriever dog charm. The charm is not a flat cut out, but actually has dimension. This little Lab dog sculpture is handmade of resin that is cast in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully air brush painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've combined this dog treasure with unusual soft lemon yellow and black Yellow Turquoise round gemstone beads, hand wire wrapped with gold jeweler's wire. In addition to the yellow Labrador Retriever dog charm, other charms include a fat Black Onyx gemstone heart and a three dimensional gold dog bone. This handcrafted dog bracelet is one of a kind, just like your special Labrador Retriever dog. Show your love with a one of a kind dog breed bracelet.

Maybe a black Lab?  If you're a dog lover, this handcrafted black dog charm necklace is for you. Created to represent a black Labrador Retriever dog, it also is perfect for most black dog lover. 

Black Lab Dog Sterling Silver Necklace
from For Love of a Dog
Lovely sterling silver chain chandelier dog lover necklace with a centerpiece cluster of dangling dog charms. Each is hand wire wrapped with sterling silver and dangles from their own individual sterling chain making a waterfall effect. Charms include 2 black onyx puffy hearts, 5 silver 3 dimensional dog bones, and an incredible Czech glass black dog head with wonderful details. Sterling extender chain is accented with more black onyx and another dog bone. Pretty coming and going. Black dog jewelry is always in fashion and can make a great statement to those who are not aware of Black Dog Syndrome.
If jewelry is simply not what you had in mind for your dog lover, how about a hand made Labrador Retriever dog Christmas ornament? We have these wonderful two dimensional ornament art sculptures in all three Lab colors:  yellow, chocolate and black.  Shown below is our black Labrador Retriever Christmas ornament.

Black Labrador Retriever Dog Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
 We also still have some of our yellow Labrador Retriever dog breed leash hooks in stock.

Yellow Labrador Retriever Dog Leash Hook
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
As you can tell, we love Labs!  Actually, we're pretty crazy about all things canine.  We've been in business since 1991, handcrafted dog breed jewelry, as well as mixed dog breed mutt, cat, horse, and even animal rescue advocacy jewelry.  For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts offers one of a kind artisan items for dog lovers.  There's still time to take advantage of our free standard shipping and your package will arrive before Christmas.  Huge holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for best selection.

New Puppy Blues at For Love of a Dog Jewelry

Rudy Kazootie considering his options.
My apologies.  I didn't intend to only blog about our dog jewelry this month.  However, I failed to factor in a new puppy.  Not only am I finding it difficult to blog, but to even have the time to upload and edit pictures of the puppy!  Now, that's sad.  That's why I called it the new puppy blues.

Puppy does now have a name:  Rudy.  Actually, it should be Rootie, because he's named after the children's book character Rootie Kazootie.  I just can't call a dog Rootie.  Just seems like bad karma.  We experimented for several days, or rather I experimented for several days with many names.  Too long, I guess.  I landed on Rudy when Gary repeatedly threatened to christen him Tator.   Actually, Tator is a cute name, but like Rootie, I just couldn't see introducing people to my grown dog, Tater.

This is, of course, Rudy's first Christmas.  Like all puppies, his life is filled with "no - no" and "NO!" with some extra expletives thrown in once in awhile.  Like when the glass garland on the Christmas tree caught his eye.  In a split second he was on it like a duck on a june bug and began backing off from the tree, garland firmly in his mouth.  Luckily he already knew "NO!"  

Rudy got his first snow storm a couple of days ago.  Only about 2" but the drifts made up for it.  He's spent the last two days locating drifts and either pouncing into them or plunging his head into them.  Tucker and Lucy watched with jaded, aged eyes.  They enjoy it, but seem to shrug off his excitement.  Jeffie watches with wonder.  He dances and prances and I can't help but feel he's wishing the drifts were big enough to plunge his 100 pound body into.

Ready for a nap.
Raise your paw if you're bored yet.  You might as well have fair warning:  with a new puppy in our house, I'll be talking about it endlessly.  And if you're lucky my reflexes will be quick enough to capture some of this magic to share with you.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Chinese Crested Dog Breed Pin from For Love of a Dog Jewelry

Chinese Crest Dog Breed Pin / Brooch from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
Now here's a great Christmas gift idea for that dog lover on your holiday shopping list who is crazy for their Chinese Crested dog.  An artisan sculpture Chinese Crested dog breed pin.  Entirely made by hand. First a hand carved sculpture is created which is then used to create a mold. Cast in resin, then hand air brush painted. They are then given a protective coating of lacquer so you can enjoy this dog breed jewelry for many years. Every effort is made to adhere to AKC and UKC dog breed standards. Frankly, they are amazing works of dog art.

Fetch more dog lover jewelry from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & gifts.  We offer a selection of necklaces, bracelets, pins, pendants, earrings, Christmas ornaments and leash hooks in over 70 dog breeds.  Mixed breed mutt dogs, cats, horses and even animal rescue jewelry, too.   Huge holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for the best seletion of our unique, one of a kind jewelry and gifts for animal lovers.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Old English Sheepdog Jewelry Makes a Great Christmas Gift

Old English Sheepdog Necklace from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Here's a great Christmas gift idea for that special someone on your holiday shopping list who loves an Old English Sheepdog.  This handcrafted necklace features an adorable Old English Sheep Dog. Skillfully hand sculpted and painted this little dog art sculpture is two dimensional, not a flat cut out.  True to dog breed standards and absolutely wonderful.  To create this dog breed necklace I've hand wire wrapped this Sheepdog treasure with gold wire and Blue Lace Agate gemstones in periwinkle blue onto a gold chain.

If you appreciate unique, one of a kind artisan jewelry, then fetch For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  We offer dog breed jewelry in many breeds, mixed breed mutt dog jewelry, cat jewelry, horse jewelry and even animal rescue jewelry.  For Love of a Dog also offers dog breed Christmas ornaments and leash hooks.  Our holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for best selection.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Bichon Frise Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Ornament Gifts

Bichon Frise Dog Lover's Necklace from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
If you have a Bichon Frise dog lover on your holiday shopping list, For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts offers unique, one of a kind Christmas gifts.  Choose a necklace, bracelet, pin or even a Christmas tree ornament.  Each and every one is hand made and sure to inspire compliments.

Shown here is a wonderful Bichon Frise dog breed necklace.  A fabulous Bichon Frise dog art sculpture is the focal in this lovely handcrafted dog breed necklace. Beautifully hand sculpted and painted, this pendant is two dimensional, not a flat cut out. True to AKC dog breed standards and absolutely wonderful.

I've hand wire wrapped this little treasure with GF jeweler's wire to dangle from a puffy Brecciated Jasper puffy heart. Gorgeous natural white Jade is hand wire wrapped and punctuated by a couple of small red Brecciated Jasper beads in this necklace. The extender chain is accented with more gems and a cute three dimensional dog bone. 

Another barking good Bichon Frise dog lover gift is this Bichon Frise dog Christmas ornament.  Perfect for your Christmas tree or to display year round. Check out that darling dog bone dangle.   This ornament is molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. It is then carefully hand painted and /or airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. Two dimensional, the back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging. 
Bichon Frise Dog Breed Christmas Ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Fetch unique, one of a kind artisan Christmas gifts for dog lovers at For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  We offer selections in over 70 dog breeds, mixed breed mutts, cats, horses and animal rescue jewelry.  We've been in business since 1991 so you can shop in confidence.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.  Holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for best selection.

Dog Song: It’s a Dog’s Life by John McCutcheon

It's Saturday, so time for a dog song at For Love of a Dog.  Sit.  Stay.  Relax and enjoy It's a Dog's Life by John McCutcheon.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Belgian Teruvian Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Ornament Gifts

Belgian Teruvian Dog Breed Pin and Pendant
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Anyone who loves one of these magnificent dogs would appreciate a piece of Belgian Teruvian dog breed jewelry or one of these gorgeous artist sculpture Christmas tree ornaments.

Shown here is one of our Belgian Teruvian dog pin / pendants.  A two dimensional sculpture that was cast in resin from a hand carved clay sculpture mold  Hand painted and air brushed. This Belgian Teruvian dog pin / pendant is correct to AKC and UKC dog breed standards and absolutely beautiful.

The clasp on this dog pin (brooch) has a built-in pendant bail so you can wear this as a pin or pendant. Looks terrific on your own chain, cord or ribbon. Very versatile and a perfect gift for someone who loves Belgian Teruvian dogs.

Another gift idea is this Belgian Teruvian dog bracelet.  It will fetch compliments and start conversations about your beloved Belgian Teruvian dog. Beautiful Belgian Teruvian dog charm is not a flat cut out, but rather a little dog art sculpture. Handmade of hand cast resin in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

Belgian Teruvian Dog Breed Bracelet from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
I've combined this Belgian Teruvian dog charm with really lovely Jasper softly rounded, puffy gemstone rectangles and Black Onyx round beads. The colors coordinate beautifully with the Belgian Teruvian. I've hand wire wrapped all the gemstones with gold jeweler's wire. In addition to the Belgian Teruvian dog, I've added a puffy Black Onyx heart and a three dimensional gold dog bone.
Belgian Teruvian Dog Breed Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
If dog breed jewelry is not what you had in mind, may we suggest a Christmas ornament.  The beauty of these artisan sculpture ornaments is that they're so lovely displayed year round.  This is a fully handcrafted two dimensional Belgian Teruvian dog breed ornament. Check out that darling dog bone dangle.   This Belgian Teruvian dog ornament is molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. It is then carefully hand painted and /or airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging.

Fetch unique, one of a kind dog lover jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  We offer hand made items in over 70 dog breeds, mixed breed mutts, cats, horses, and don't miss our animal rescue jewelry.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.  Huge holiday sale is now in progress.  Shop now for best selection.

Dog Lover Jewelry Makes a Great Christmas Gift - Bully Breed Necklace

For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts offers dog lover jewelry to please the dog lovers on your holiday shopping list.  Choose from necklaces, bracelets, pins, pendants, earrings, Christmas ornaments and dog leash hooks.  We now have over 70 dog breeds, plus mixed breed mutts, cats, horses, and animal rescue jewelry.  Our jewelry is handmade and one of a kind, so you can rest assured you'll have a unique piece of animal lover jewelry.

Netsuke Dog Jade and Silver Necklace from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
Shown here is a great necklace that could easily represent a pit bull, a boxer, or many of the bully breed mixes.  This handcrafted, one of a kind, dog lover necklace includes an absolutely wonderful hand carved Japanese boxwood Ojime bead of a dog head. I imported these beads directly from Hong Kong and they are extremely rare. This dog could be bulldog, boxer, staffordshire, or a mixed breed dog. Incredible lucky totem or talisman for any dog lover.
For the necklace I hand wire wrapped this charming dog with sterling silver wire and lots of gorgeous large natural serpentine jade gemstone beads in a shimmering reddish brown for this stunning netsuke necklace. Definitely unique and unusual. A perfect gift for any dog lover.

Fetch unique dog lover gifts and jewelry from For Love of a Dog.  Shop now for best selection and take advantage of our huge holiday sale.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Ornament Gifts

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Necklace
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
If you'd like to surprise your favorite dog lover with a one of a kind artisan gift this Christmas, then we hope you'll fetch For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  Today we're featuring our Yorkshire Terrier dog breed jewelry and Christmas ornaments.  Perfect gifts for the Yorkie dog lover on your holiday shopping list.  Choose from bracelets, pins and necklaces in the jewelry categories.

Shown here is a darling two dimensional Yorkie dog pendant skillfully hand sculpted and painted. True to AKC and UKC breed standards and absolutely delightful. To create this handcrafted dog lover necklace, I hand wire wrapped this little Yorkie dog pendant with sterling silver wire and big fat red Coral, plus a chubby Black Onyx heart. The extender chain is accented with a little Red Jasper heart and a cute three dimensional silver dog bone. A Yorkshire Terrier dog breed necklace is a perfect way to tell the world you love a Yorkie. Also makes a fabulous gift for another dog lover.


Or how about a handcrafted Yorkshire Terrier dog ornament for your Christmas tree or to display any time. Check out that darling dog bone dangle. Charming Yorkie gift for yourself or a dog lover friend.


Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts
 Our Yorkie dog ornaments ares molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. Then carefully hand painted and airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging. Not a flat cut out, these ornaments are two dimensional art sculptures.

Fetch gifts that are sure to please any dog lover at For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  We offer artisan one of a kind items in over 70 dog breeds, plus mixed breed mutts, cats and horses.  Don't miss our animal rescue jewelry.  We've been in business since 1991 so you can shop with confidence.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping on each and every purchase.  We also happen to be having a howling good holiday sale going on right now.  Shop now for best selection.

Good News for Dogs in November 2010 Elections

I'd planned to once again blog about Missouri's Prop B - the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act.  By now you're probably sick of me and my soapbox rants about it.   Plus, I must admit that having a new puppy in the house has me distracted.   I've found a wonderful election round-up article in Dog's Life Magazine and decided to share it with you.

Here's an update on dog related issues in the November 2010 elections courtesy of Dog's Life Magazine and Michael Markarian.  Markarian is chief operating officer of The Humane Society of the United States, and president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. He writes the blog “Animals & Politics” at www.michaelmarkarian.org.

It was a big election night for animals; major victories were declared against the puppy mill industry and agribusiness lobby in Missouri, and against the NRA and trophy hunting lobby in Arizona. Many of the leading animal advocates in Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, were re-elected to continue their work in 2011. The votes are still being tallied in some races, but here is a rundown of where we stand so far on the major contests that affect animals.

State Ballot Measures

In order to crack down on puppy mill abuses in the nation’s top puppy mill state, the top priority for animal advocates across the country was to approve Missouri’s Proposition B. I watched the election returns with a group of animal welfare supporters at the Humane Society of Missouri animal shelter in St. Louis, and it was a nail-biter. At the end of the night, Prop B was approved by a margin of 60,000 votes, establishing common-sense standards for the care of dogs.

The margin would have likely been much larger if the Missouri Farm Bureau, Lucas Oil and Cattle Company, Missouri Veterinary Medical Association and others had not thrown in their lot with the puppy millers. These groups helped run a late-breaking, scorched-earth campaign to confuse voters into believing that Prop B was about more than dogs. Fortunately, Missouri citizens saw through the rhetoric, and saw Prop B for what it was — a much-needed policy to turn around the state’s reputation as the puppy mill capital of America. And if we can beat the puppy millers and their allies on their home turf where they are the strongest and the most entrenched, it should send a message to other state and federal lawmakers across the country that dogs deserve to be treated like family pets, not like a cash crop.

In Arizona, another priority was the defeat of Proposition 109, a measure referred to the ballot by the state legislature at the request of the NRA. Prop 109 would have taken power away from Arizona voters, and would have handed it over to politicians and special interest groups, essentially blocking future citizen ballot initiatives on wildlife issues.

It would have also weakened the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, replacing scientific wildlife management with partisan politics. It could have even overturned the 1994 ballot initiative restricting steel-jawed leghold traps and poisons on public lands. We fought back with our coalition partners, and urged Arizona voters to reject this power grab.

They said no to the NRA, and shot down Prop 109 by a preliminary margin of 56 to 44 percent. It was the second time in a decade that Arizona voters refused to give up their voting rights and shot down this nonsense from the NRA. Another win for animals and voting rights occurred in Oklahoma. Citizens decided to streamline the ballot initiative process and allow a consistent standard for petitioning to qualify ballot initiatives, including on animal protection subjects, by passing State Question 750 with a vote of 50.4 to 49.6 percent.

Congressional Races

At time of print, 238 House and Senate candidates endorsed by Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF) have been declared the winners, while 46 have lost and 14 races have yet to be decided. You can visit our Voter Guide online at www.hslf.org for updates on the outcomes as they are reported. HSLF focused much of its efforts on TV ads supporting leading animal protection candidates in five competitive congressional races, and we have won five out of five.

HSLF ran ads in New Orleans supporting Sen. David Vitter, R-La., a leader of efforts to crack down on puppy mill abuses and ban the trade in primates as pets; he was re-elected 57 to 38 percent. We also ran ads in Cleveland supporting Rep. Betty Sutton, D-Ohio, a sponsor of legislation to strengthen the laws against animal fighting, who was re-elected 55 to 45 percent. And we supported Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., who as chairman of the Natural Resources Committee has passed a number of wildlife protection bills through the House, with ads in the Bluefield and Charleston areas. He was victorious by a margin of 56 to 44 percent.

In other priority House races, HSLF ran ads in Palm Springs supporting Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Calif., a sponsor of legislation to require fur labeling so consumers aren’t deceived, and she was declared the winner 52 to 41 percent. We ran a paid TV campaign in suburban Detroit to support Rep. Gary Peters, D-Mich., a leader in the effort to ban obscene animal crush videos, and he has narrowly won by about 4,600 votes, a margin of 49 to 48 percent.

We once again made an impact in Michigan’s 9th district, where HSLF made its largest investment in 2008 and helped to defeat then-Rep. Joe Knollenberg, who had one of the worst records on animal cruelty in the entire country. We continued this track record in 2010, and demonstrated that when we invest resources to help shape the outcomes of candidate races, we are successful in our efforts to tip the balance in close contests.Thank you to all of you who volunteered, wrote letters, donated and cast your votes to help achieve these outcomes for animal protection ballot measures and for candidates who are fighting for animal welfare. It’s because of your work that the animal protection movement can continue to make progress for animals in the political arena. Please check www.hslf.org for more updates on the midterm elections.















Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Golden Retriever Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Tree Ornament Gifts

One of a Kind Porcelain Golden Retriever Tigerseye Necklace
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
We love Golden Retrievers.  Here at For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts, we have two Golden Retriever mixes.  (Lucy and Jeffies' mamas were both Goldens.)  So it should come as no surprise that we think Golden Retreiver dog breed jewelry and Christmas ornaments would make barking good gifts for anyone on your holiday shopping list who loves a Golden.

Right now we have a selection of necklaces, bracelets, pins, and earrings featuring Golden Retrievers.  Each jewelry piece is one of a kind and hand made.  Just a few samples are shown here.
How about a handcrafted dog necklace with a truly unique one of a kind handmade ceramic Golden Retriever dog pendant.  Necklace is composed of lots of gorgeous natural Tigereye gemstone beads and teeny gold round beads.  Even the gold extender chain is accented with a little three dimensional gold dog bone and a Tigereye gemstone carved star.
Golden Retriever Dog Bone Bracelet from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts

Would you prefer a Golden Retriever dog lover bracelet?  Beautiful gemstones and a wonderful Golden Retriever dog charm are combined in the handcrafted dog bracelet shown above.  Handmade of hand cast resin in a hand sculpted mould, the dog charm is then carefully painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.  I've hand wire wrapped this little dog focal with beautiful handcrafted, three dimensional dog bones and big natural serpentine beads. Rich earthy colors with a gorgeous dog sculpture make great dog jewelry.

Whimsical Golden Retriever Dog Breed Pin from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts

Perhaps your special dog lover would prefer a Golden Retriever pin.  Shown above is just one of our beautiful Golden Retriever dog breed pins.This handmade dog breed pin was entirely hand crafted by a Michigan porcelain artist. Literally hand sculpted porcelain ceramic, hand glaized, and high fired. Such a happy little dog and an amazing work of dog art. Check out the details on this Golden Retriever dog breed pin.



Golden Retriever Dog Breed Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
 If jewelry is just not the right thing for your special dog lover, then we suggest one of our Golden Retriever dog breed Christmas ornaments.  This Golden Retriever dog holiday ornament (shown above) is molded from an original design clay sculpture and then hand cast in resin.  Carefully hand painted and air brushed and detailed.  Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come.  The back is flat, however this is a two dimensional sculpture, not a flat cut out.  

Fetch For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts for unique one of a kind holiday gifts for your dog lover friends and family.  Barking good Christmas gifts.  Right now we're having a huge holiday sale, plus you'll always receive gift packaging and free standard shipping at For Love of a Dog.  Our items are one of kind artisan pieces, so shop now for best selection.

New Dog Book: DOGS by Tim Flach

Dogs 
Now, this is a book for dog lovers.  Just this morning I read a review of this book, Dogs, by Tim Flach which includes some of the photography from the book.  It's going to the top of my Christmas wish list.  If you've seen Flach's book of horses, you'll want this new book, too.  It almost seems like a slap in the face to call Tim Flach a photographer.  The man is an artist.  Absolutely amazing shots of dogs in all kinds of settings.  Fetch this book.  Flip through the pages.  You'll have to have it, too.  Available at many bookstores;  I've placed my order on Amazon.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Dog Bone Earrings make a great Stocking Stuffer for a Dog Lover

Dog Bone Earrings with Freshwater Pearls
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry
If you're looking for just a little something for a dog lover... something sure to bring a smile to their face... and you'd like it to be special, just like their dog, how about a pair of dog bone earrings.

For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts offers a generous selection of dog lover earrings, most with dog bones.  All of our dog jewelry is hand made the old fashioned way, one piece at a time.  Shown here is just one example of the treats that are waiting for you at our online shop.

The dog bone earrings shown here have beautiful baroque freshwater pearls in warm cocoa bronze with a handmade ceramic dog bone dangle.  Fully three dimensional and looks just like an old bone!  All hand wire wrapped and perfect gift for any dog lover

Shop at For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts now for best selection.  Our items are one of a kind.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Dog Breed Christmas Ornaments on Sale Now at For Love of a Dog Jewelry

Afghan Dog Christmas Tree Ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
All of the dog breed Christmas tree ornaments are on sale now at For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts.  These are selling out fast, so shop now for best selection of dog breeds.


Belgian Teruvian Dog Christmas Ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Completely hand made, these artisan sculptures look fantastic on a Christmas tree or displayed year round.  Not flat cut outs, these two dimensional dog breed holiday ornaments are molded from original design clay sculptures, then hand cast in resin. Carefully hand painted and airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging.



Chow Dog Christmas Ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Current dog breed ornaments still available include:  Afghan, Australian Shepherd, Basenji, Basset Hound, Beagle, Belgian Teruvian, Bernese Mountain Dog, Bichon Frise, Border Collie, Borzoi / Russian Wolfhound, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Corgi, Dachshund, English Bulldog, English Setter, English Springer Spaniel, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyranees, Greyhound, Irish Setter, Labrador Retriever, Newfoundland, Papillon, Portuguese Water Dog, Pug, Rottweiler, Schnauzer, Sheltie, Shih Tzu, Vizla, West Highland Terrier, Wiemaraner and Yorkshire Terrier.   Several dog breeds are already sold out.

Papillon Dog Christmas Ornament from
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
Unfortunately, due to the time it takes to hand make these ornaments, what we have on hand now is all we'll have in time for Christmas gift giving.  If your favorite dog breed is sold out, but you'd still like to order an ornament (knowing that it will not be delivered until after the holidays), please let us now.  We'd be glad to create a special order for you.

For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts - where you'll find unique one of a kind dog themed jewelry that inspires compliments and starts conversations.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Great Pyranees Dog Breed Jewelry and Christmas Ornament

If you have someone on your holiday shopping list who adores a Great Pyranees, we think Great Pyranees dog breed jewelry would make a great Christmas gift.  We also suggest our beautiful handmade artisan sculpture Great Pyranees Christmas tree ornament.

Shown here is just one example of our Great Pyranees dog necklaces, bracelets and pins.  This gorgeous white Great Pyranees dog charm is not a flat cut out, but rather a little dog art sculpture. Handmade of hand cast resin in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully painted. True to dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.


Great Pyranees Dog Necklace at
For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts
 I've combined this Great Pyranees dog charm with big fat white Snow Quartz and red Poppy Jasper gemstone beads, including some chubby red Poppy Jasper hearts. All hand wire wrapped with gold jeweler's wire. A really fun dog breed necklace, for sure.. This handcrafted dog breed necklace would make a perfect jewelry gift for anyone who loves a Great Pyranees dog. A thoughtful gift for someone active in dog rescue work, too.

Then there is always a Great Pyranees dog breed Christmas ornament.  This fabulous handcrafted two dimensional Great Pyranees dog ornament is perfect for your Christmas tree or to display any time. Check out that darling dog bone dangle. Charming gift for yourself or a dog lover friend.

Not a flat cut out, but a two dimensional sculpture. This Great Pyranees dog ornament is molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. It is then carefully hand painted and airbrushed and hand detailed. Sprayed with a clear protective coating to preserve the finish for years to come. The back is flat and it is signed and dated and comes with a tassled cord for hanging.


Great Pyranees Dog Breed Christmas Ornament
from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts

For Love of a Dog offers dog breed jewelry and Christmas ornaments in over 70 dog breeds.  We also offer dog jewelry for lovers of mixed breed mutt dogs, cats and even horses.  One of a kind artisan jewelry that is sure to please any dog lover.  Barking good Christmas gifts.  We've been in business since 1991, so you can shop with confidence.  Gift packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.  Dog breed Christmas ornaments are on sale now!  Shop For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts now for best selection.


Puppy Pictures at For Love of a Dog

Puppy with Lucy looking on.
We haven't definitely decided on a name yet, so I'm just going to call him Puppy.  And what a puppy he is.  Puppy came from an unplanned litter.  The family moved here from Kentucky and before they could get a yard fence installed their purebred Labrador Retriever, Daisy, came into heat and had a rendevous with a neighbor dog.  Daddy is a chocolate colored Lab mix, but looks purebred.  Daisy is a gorgeous white lab.  The family had no intention of ever breeding Daisy, but put off the spay job until after they moved.  They were none too happy when Daisy turned up pregnant.

As you may remember, Gary ran into Daisy's owner at our vet's office.  Jamie had a laundry basket full of lab puppies:  black, chocolate, ginger yellow, and the lemon/white all there to be vet checked, get their first shots and be wormed.   When we went to Jamie's house we were able to meet Daisy, as well as get a look at the pup's father.   All beautiful canines.  The hard part was picking just one puppy.

Jeffie checking him out.
Today Puppy is trying to get Jeffie and Tucker to play.  He does the play bow and softly yips...  and Tucker runs.  Jeffie is not at all sure what to make of him.   Lucy adores him.  Almost every photo we take of the puppy, Lucy is horning in.  Not because she's a camera hog, she's focused on the puppy.


Lucy supervising playtime.
He's such a mellow big lug of a puppy and, at least so far, simply a delight.  We're having fun snapping photos of his firsts:  first collar, first walk on a leash, firsh play toys, you know the new puppy drill.
We're having an awful lot of fun here at For Love of a Dog.  Who was it that said:  Whoever said money can't buy happiness forgot about puppies.