Siberian Husky Dog Breed Jewelry and Dog Lover Gifts

Siberian Husky Dog Breed Pin and Pendant  

If a Siberian Husky dog is your special friend, this handcrafted pin is a wonderful way to wear him or her close to your heart. This fabulous Siberian Husky dog breed brooch was beautifully handmade by an American artist.

The dog head was molded from an original design clay sculpture and hand cast in resin. Then these pins are carefully hand painted, airbrushed and hand detailed. For Love of a Dog Jewelry's pins are true to AKC dog breed standards and absolutely beautiful.

Pin clasp cannot be seen so this pin may be worn with any color of metal jewelry. Check for our pin adapters to be able to also wear this pin as a pendant on your necklace chain.

Fetch more dog breed jewelry and dog lover gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Adopt Tink: An Adoptable Husky Dog at MO Puppies for Parole Training Program

Tink, Husky mixed breed dog at MO Puppies for Parole

Look at the sweet face on this dog!  Tink, a Husky mixed breed dog, is currently in the Missouri Puppies for Parole training program at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.  Tink's parole office is the Jefferson City Animal Shelter.

Tink is young and nowhere near full grown.  He is a bundle of enthusiasm.  Turned over to the animal shelter because his family could no longer afford to feed him, he'd also never had any veterinary care. 

If you have room in your life for Tink or a dog like him, surf on over to Puppies for Parole.

Puppies for Parole is a unique program made possible through partnerships with animal shelters and animal advocate groups statewide. Selected offenders have the opportunity to become trainers to rescue dogs in the program. Offenders work with the dogs teaching them basic obedience skills and properly socializing the animals, making them more adoptable. Once the dogs have successfully completed the program they will be sent back to their original shelter to be placed up for adoption. Last year in Missouri, more than 46,000 homeless canines were euthanized. Puppies for Parole hopes to reduce that number by producing loving, obedient, adoptable dogs

Jack Russell Dog Breed Jewelry Pendant

Jack Russell Dog Pendant

You can call it a Jack Russell dog or a Parsons Russell dog. Either way this is a wonderful dog breed pendant from For Love of a Dog.

The Jack Russell dog breed charm is beautifully hand sculpted and painted by a Wisconsin artist. True to AKC breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful. Two dimensional; not a flat cut out.

I've hand wire wrapped this little dog treasure with sterling silver wire and a big lovely black onyx puffy heart. Sterling silver accents. Perfect dog pendant to wear on your own silver necklace, a ribbon or cord. Great way to show your love for this dog breed to the world and a barking good dog lover gift.

Fetch more dog breed jewelry and dog lover gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Dog Song Saturday at For Love of a Dog - The Dachshund Song

Woof!  It's Saturday, so time for a dog song from For Love of a Dog.  Can you stand another song about Dachshund dogs?  I grew up with a standard black and tan doxie named Hansel, so I find it hard to resist a song and video about this dog breed.  We have to admit that The Dachshund Song is pretty goofy... but it is catchy and even our dogs cock an ear and listen.   So, grab a dog (a wiener dog would be appropriate, but any dog will do).  Sit.  Stay.  Relax and enjoy The Dachshund Song by petemcgreet.

Greyhound Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts for Dog Lovers

Greyhound Dog Breed Pin    

My high school sports teams were the Greyhounds and our mascots were a pair of these amazing dogs.  What I remember most about them was their sweetness.  And their speed.  Can't forget their speed.  Can't forget the beauty of their speed as they circled the football field in a flash.

If you're a Greyhound devotee, perhaps you've rescued one of the racing Greyhounds, then check out the Greyhound dog breed jewelry and gifts at For Love of a Dog.  We usually have a selection of one of a kind Greyhound necklaces, bracelets, and sculptural ornaments.

Shown here is a handcrafted Greyhound dog breed pin. These two dimensional handmade dog breed pins (brooches) are like no other. Entirely handmade by an American artist. First a hand carved sculpture is created which is then used to create a mould. 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. Notice the bone structure and musculature of the dog. I've tried to show the sculptural details in the photos of this black and white Greyhound dog breed pin.

Fetch more one of a kind dog breed jewelry and dog lover gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Our jewelry is handmade the old fashioned way, one by one right here in the Missouri Ozarks.   We love dogs and it shows.  We love dog lovers, too.  That's why we offer gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Contest: Win a Personalized Pet Quilt and Help Animals



2010 Custom Pet Quilt
Photo courtesy MAAL 

 The Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation's annual Mardi Growl Maskgrrrade Ball in Kansas City is Friday, March 4 from 7-11 pm at the Simpson House, just off the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, MO.

You can attend the event in person and enjoy great food from Jazz Louisiana Kitchen, Nellie's Sweets, beverages from Boulevard Brewing, music by Reunion Jazz, psychic readings and more!

Attending or not, you can purchase tickets for their personalized pet quilt this year.

Shown here is last year's custom quilt. 

This package includes:  4 personalized quilt squares - the winner will design 4 squaraes that can be screen printed with photos and / or embroidered with a name or design.  The winner can even add materials of a sentimental nature to the quilt.  Raffle tickets are $2 each or 6 for $10 and can be ordered online.  Order your Personalized Pet Quilt raffle tickets now!

Adopt a Greyhound and Make a Fast Friend

Racing Greyhounds
 Photo courtesy The Greyhound Project, Inc    

Adopt a Greyhound, Make a Fast Friend!  That's the web slogan of The Greyhound Project.  This organization was founded in the summer of 1992 by greyhound adopters.  When they organized they feld that the rescue and adoption movement could use information, not another adoption group.

The Greyhound Project, Inc is a volunteer, non-profit organization that provides information and promotes the adoption of retired racing greyhounds. Among other things, they publish the magazine Celebrating Greyhounds, a quarterly publication.    Once copy is sent free of charge to every adoption group in the world.  In addition, they offer calendars featuring retired racing greyhounds, intended to illustrate the qualities of these dogs as pets and companions.

Looking to adopt a retired racing greyhound, but don't know where to start?  Try the adoption agency directory at The Greyhound Project.  You'll find listings of Greyhound adoption groups located all over the world, organized geographically.  Don't miss all the good advice available here, too, including how to choose an adoption agency, how to reduce anxiety for your new dog, and much more. 

The Greyhound Project offers a wealth of information about Greyhounds that should not be missed by anyone interested in a retired racing Greyhound dog. 

In 2008, the Greyhound Project produced a series of public service announcements to promote greyhound adoptions.  One of the spots, seen below, featured a black greyhound named Cal who was looking for a long term commitment.  Fortunately for Cal, he was adopted soon after filming.  However, there are thousands more greyhounds just like him that are waiting for a forever home. 

Watch this very clever greyhound dog video, then if you've got room on your couch and in your heart, fetch The Greyhound Project and make a fast friend.

Great Pyrenees Dog Jewelry and Gifts for Dog Lovers

Great Pyranees Dog Breed Bracelet  

The Great Pyrenees dog breed takes its name from the mountain range in southwestern Europe, where they aare used to guard flocks on the steep mountain slopes.  Its thought that they originated in Central Asia or Siberia and followed the migration into Europe.  In the 17th century, the Great Pyranees was appointed French court dog.  

In more recent times, we've known a few Great Pyrenees dogs used to guard sheep and calves here in the Ozarks.  If you love this dog breed and are lucky enough to have one of these great dogs as a companion, you should take a look at the Great Pyrenees dog breed jewelry and gifts at For Love of a Dog.

Shown here is a Great Pyrenees dog lover bracelet that will fetch compliments and start conversations about your beloved Pyrenees dog. Beautiful white Great Pyrenees 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.

I've combined this Pyrenees dog charm with fat snow white Jade round beads that I've hand wire wrapped with gold jeweler's wire and accented with gold beadcaps. In a addition to the Pyrenees dog, I've added a Black Onyx gemstone heart and a three dimensional gold dog bone. This handcrafted dog bracelet is perfect jewelry for anyone who loves a Great Pyrenees dog.

Fetch more one of a kind dog breed jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  We love dogs.  We love dog lovers, too, so use this special discount code at checkout to receive 10% off your order:  FLDNEW   Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Fall in Love with a Great Pyrenees Dog



Gracie is available for adoption    



If you've been thinking about adding a Great Pyranees dog to your family, be sure to check out the National Great Pyrenees Rescue.  They're a non-profit established in 2006 to help all Great Pyrenees dogs find good forever homes.  They don't discriminate and help all Great Pyrenees:  dogs from pet stores, puppy mills or breeders, and Pyr mixes.  Their mission in a nutshell:  to support Great Pyrenees rescue efforts across the country to save more Pyrs.
The National Great Pyrenees Rescue is an independent, national rescue network that supports local rescue efforts throughout the United States. Their website is a great example of how technology can help both dogs and dog lovers.  You'll find all the information you need if you want to adopt, including dogs available for adoption from across the country. 

Want to fall in love?  Take a look at this video featuring six Great Pyrenees puppies.  All need a forever home.

Gordon Setter Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts for Dog Lovers

Gordon Setter Dog Breed Necklace

They may have a reputation as the best one-man shooting dog, but what strikes me about Gordon Setters is their beauty.  Absolutely gorgeous dogs, especially when in motion.   If you or someone special is a devotee, then you really should check out the one of a kind, artisan Gordon Setter dog breed jewelry at For Love of a Dog.  Right now we have necklaces, earrings, pins, and sculptural ornaments in the Gorden Setter dog breed. 

Our inventory changes frequently and, because each jewelry piece is handmade, each is a special work of art.Shopping for a Gordon Setter dog lover is easy when you choose unique handmade dog breed jewelry.

For instance, check out this one of a kind, unusual Gordon Setter dog breed necklace at For Love of a Dog. This handcrafted dog necklace features a charming hand sculpted Gordon Setter artisan pendant. True to dog breed standards and absolutely darling. Not a flat cut out, but a two dimensional sculpture.

I've hand wire wrapped this little Gordon Setter dog with bronze jewelers wire in combination with Goldstone and natural Black Agate gemstone beads in graduating sizes. Even the extender chain is accented with more gems and a three dimensional gold dog bone.

Fetch more unique, handmade dog lover jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

February is National Pet Dental Health Month

Tucker is not keen on teeth brushing.    

I don't know how I completely forgot that February is National Pet Dental Health Month!  Afterall, thanks to Rudy, I've been treated to puppy breath.

Of course, dental care for pets is about a whole lot more than sweet smelling breath.  It's about the overall health of our animals.  Keeping up with our pets oral hygiene should be a piece of their routine health care. 

Just as for humans, periodontal disease can lead to serious health concerns ranging from tooth loss to organ failure in our pets.  Nearly every adult pet has some degree of dental tartar, which is a cause of periodontal disease.  When our pets receive good dental care, they'll live longer and better lives.

What can you do? 

• When you visit your vet for a routine check up, be sure that includes a dental check up.  If needed schedule an appointment with your vet for teeth cleaning.
• Brush your pet's teeth every day.  I know it sounds like a hassle, but it becomes simply part of your daily routine.  You can use a soft bristled toothbrush or one of those nifty finger brushes.  Be sure to use toothpaste specially formulated for pets.  Human toothpaste contains fluoride and other ingredients that can be toxic to cats and dogs.
• Feed your pet a good dental diet.  Extra crunchy kibble can help clean your pet's teeth.  Plus there are even several commercial dog foods that have been shown to improve pets peridontal health.  Don't be afraid to ask your vet for a recommendation.
• Offer appropriate chew treats.  Some pet treats are specially designed to keep pet's teeth clean.  This is a great way to remove plaque and tartar from your dog's teeth. 

How can you tell if you should be worried about your pet's teeth?  Here are some of the most common signs of dental problems:

• Yellow-brown tartar
• Bleeding gums
• Red, inflamed gums
• Bad breath
• Difficulty chewing
• Change in eating habits
• Pawing at the mouth

If you see any of the above, its time for a visit to your vet.

Even though I've spotted none of those warning signs... I feel like I should go brush my own teeth!

Wordless Wednesdays: Dog Snow Boots and Best Friends

Sometimes, especially when you're playing with your best friend, you lose a boot. 

Mom, I lost one of those dog-goned doggie boots.

But... if he's really your best friend...

Puppy Mill Bust: 74 Collie and Bichon Frise Dogs Rescued in Stone County Missouri

And some people say Missouri does not need the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act as it was originally written.... right.

Humane Society of Missouri rescuers have been busy.  Last week, at the request of the Missouri Department of Agriculture's request, they helped rescue dozens of Standard Collies and Bichon Frise dogs and puppies from a licensed dog breeder near Crane, MO in Stone County.

The dogs were livingt inside half of a double-wide trailer home on the property.  The portion of the trailer where the dogs were housed contained many wire crates with dogs and puppies living in their own waste.  Carpeting in the trailer was soaked with urine and feces. 

Following a routine inspection on February 17, the Missouri Department of Agriculture revoked this breeder's license.  Because dogs were in distress, they requested the Stone County Sheriff obtain a warrant for possible removal of the dogs.  They then requested the assistance of the Humane Society of Missouri.

Seventy-four dogs and puppies were living in their own waste.  Imagine a full grown Standard Collie living tightly crammed into a cold, filthy wire crate.  Unable to stretch or drink clean water.  It looks as though these canines haven't been seen by a veterinarian for a long time, if ever.  Nearly all suffer from internal parasites and will require treatment before they can be placed for adoption.

These dogs and puppies are now in the care of the Humane Society of Missouri where they are receiving vet care for parasites, encrusted eyes, matted fur (from urine and feces) and other ailments.

Donations are requested to help pay for their care.  If you would like to help, visit the Humane Society of Missouri's web site.  The HSMO is also requesting donations of towels, blankets,and rubber toys.  Items can be left 24/7 inside of the Receiving Entrance at the Macklind Ave location in St Louis, MO.

A disposition hearing to determine permanent custody of the dogs will be held February 28 in Galena, MO.  If the HSMO receives custody of the dogs, they will eventually be available for adoption.

If you are interested in adopting one of these dogs, you may call 314-802-5712 or check the Humane Society of Missouri web site for announcements.  Some of them may be available for adoption sometime in March, depending on how quickly they recuperate from their illnesses.

Spay and Neuter Dog and Cat Lover Bracelet from For Love of a Dog Jewelry

Spay Neuter Dog and Cat Lover Copper Bracelet

Promote pet spay and neuter with this dog lover bracelet from For Love of a Dog. 

This handmade pet lover bracelet teamed very earthy deep peach and charcoal Marble ovals with copper.  Hand stamped copper circles are gently domed and proclaim SPAY and NEUTER. All are hand wire wrapped with copper jeweler's wire.  

Perfect gift for any pet lover, pet rescue volunteer or animal rescue foster mom. A stylish bracelet with an important animal welfare message.  Sure to fetch conversations that can save dog and cat lives

Browse more animal advocacy and rescue jewelry at For Love of a Dog.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

EO Products Dog Model Contest and Pet Care Product Giveaway

Now, here's a barking good contest for dog lovers! 

To help promote their new line of natural and organic pet products, EO is hosting a Dog Model Contest from Feb 22 through March 8.  Five winning dogs will be selected to receive a full set of EO pet care products ($27.95 value).  Winning dogs will also have their images used to help promote the pet care line on the EO website, Facebook page, newsletter, and possibly product labels.

To enter, pet owners must fill out a registration for on the EO website and upload a photo of their pet to EO's facebook page.  Owners can be in the photos, too.

Winners will be asked to send back a photo of their pet with EO's shampoo for promotion on the EO website.  Videos of the winning dogs being shampooed with EO would be an added bonus.

EO Products is a provider of premium natural and organic body care products and have justy released their first-ever pet care line, featuring natural and organic Lavender & Aloe shampoo and conditioner, plus Citrus & Mint groomer for dogs.  EO Pet Care products are free of parabens, polysorbate, disodium EDTA, phosphates, animalbi-products, synthtic fragrances and sulfates.  Their bottles are made from 100& post-consumer recycled plastic.

Visit EO's website to register and enter their Dog Model Contest.   And good luck!

Cavalier King Charles Named 2011 Bark in the Park Mascot

Charlie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, has been selected to serve as the 2011 Bark in the Park Mascot.  Voters selected Charlie after reading the inspirational story of how he helped his owner, Bob, through his battle with leukemia. 

Bob and Charlie will receive a years supply of Purina ONE and lead the Walk for Animals on May 21 at Cricket Field in forest Park, Missouri.

Bark in the Park is the largest dog-walk in the Midwest and an annual event of the Humane Society of Missouri. All proceeds from the event benefit their Animal Cruelty fund which is dedicated to investigating, healing, and preventing animal abuse.

Labrador Retriever Dog Lovers - A Reminder

Hey, Labrador Retriever dog lovers!  Don't forget to surf over to the Labrador Life Line annual Heart Dog Auction.  You'll be amazed at the wonderful Lab things they're offering this time.  You'll find great Lab stuff for your home and for your dog.  All proceeds from the auction go towards helping Labrador Retrievers and Lab owners.   Bidding ends this Friday, February 25, so place your bids now!

Yes, you'll find something there from For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts.  And yes, we're also bidding on some barking good doggie things, too!  Don't delay, fetch the Heart Dog Auctions now.

Spay and Neuter Your Pets: Spay Day 2011

Every day about 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in the United States.  Every year 4 - 6 million are euthanized because there are not enough home for all of them.

Our communities spend millions of dollars to control and eliminate unwanted animals.  Our animal shelters are overburdened with unwanted animals.  Irresponsible breeding contributes to the problem.

Here are the top ten reasons to spay or neuter from the ASPCA:

1. Your female pet will live a longer, healthier life.  Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breat cancer, which is fatal in about 50% of dogs and 90% of cats.  Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.
2. Neutering provides major health benefits for your male.  Besides preventing unwanted litters. neutering your male pet prevents testicular cancer, if done before six months of age.
3. Your spayed female won't go into heat.  While cycles can vary, female felines usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season.  Ibn an effort to advertise for mates, they'll yowl and urinate more frequently - sometimes all over your house.
4. Your male dogs won't want to roam away from home.  An intact male will do just about anything to find a mate.  That includes digging his way under the fence and making like Houdini to escape from the house.  And once he's free to roam, he risks injury in traffic and fights with other males.
5. Your neutered malewill be much better behaved.  Neutered cats and dogs focus their attention on their human families.  On the other hand, unneutered dogs and cats may mark their territory by spraying strong smelling urine all over the house.  Many aggression problems can be avoided by early neutering.
6. Spaying or neutering will NOT make your pet fat.  Don't use that excuse!  Lack of exercise and overfeeding will cause your pet to pack on the extra pounds.  Not neutering.
7. It is highly cost effective.  the cost of your pet's spay or neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter.  It also beats the cost of treatment when your unneutered tom escapes and gets into fights with the neighborhood stray.
8. Spaying and neutering your pet is good for the community.  Stray animals pose a real problem in many parts of the country.  They can pray on wildlife, cause car accidents, damage the local fauna and frighten children.  Spaying and neutering packs a powerful punch in reducing the number of animals on the streets.
9. Your pet does not need to have a litter for your children to learn about the miracle of birth.  Letting your pet produce offspring you have no intention of keeping is not a good lesson for your children - especially when so many unwanted animals end up in shelters.  There are tons of books and videos available to teach your children about birth in a more responsible way.
10. Spay and neutering helps fight pet overpopulation.  Every year, millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized or suffer as strays.  These high numbers are the result of unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.

Be a responsible pet owner.  Spay and neuter your pets.

Golden Retriever Dog Lover Jewelry at For Love of a Dog

Golden Retriever Dog Lover Turquoise Bracelet

My heart was captured by a Golden Retriever several years ago.  My heart dog, Lucy, is a Golden Retriever / Labrador Retriever dog.  So, it should come as no surprise that we usually have a very nice selection of Golden Retriever dog breed jewelry at For Love of a Dog.  Each piece is hand crafted;  made with love and joy right here in the Missouri Ozarks.  Take your pick of the litter from Golden Retriever earrings, necklaces, bracelets, pins, pendants, and sculpture ornaments. 

If you love a Golden Retriever dog, this bracelet was handcrafted with you in mind. It features a wonderful Golden Retriever dog charm. The charm is not a flat cut out, but actually has dimension. This little Golden 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 greenish Dragonskin Turquoise oval gemstone beads, hand wire wrapped with gold jeweler's wire. In addition to the Golden Retriever dog charm, other charms include a fat Picture Jasper gemstone heart and a three dimensional gold dog bone. This handcrafted dog bracelet is one of a kind, just like your special Golden Retriever dog. Show your love with a one of a kind dog breed bracelet.

Fetch more artisan handmade dog lover jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Not only do we love dogs, we love dog lovers.  So use this special discount code at checkout to receive 10% off your order:  FLDNEW    Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Jewelry at For Love of a Dog

Black Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Bracelet

We're gong with a theme here today of black labs.  If you're heart has been captured by a big black Lab, then you really should check out our one of a kind Labrador Retriever dog breed jewelry.  We offer earrings, necklaces, and bracelets featuring beautiful black Lab dogs.  Plus we also offer artisan sculpture ornaments, too.

The black Lab dog lover bracelet shown here includes a wonderful two dimensional black Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retriever dog breed charm is true to dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've hand wire wrapped this little dog treasure with black lampwork dog bones and red Poppy Jasper gemstone beads with gold jewelers wire. Extender charms include a chubby red Poppy Jasper gemstone heart and a little three dimensional gold dog bone Great colors with a gorgeous black Labrador Retriever dog sculpture makes for beautiful dog lover jewelry and a fabulous gift. This bracelet would be great someone involved in black dog rescue work, too.

Fetch more unique artisan jewelry in many dog breeds and mixed breed mutts at For Love of a Dog.  We also offer animal advocacy, rescue, and spay / neuter jewelry.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Adopt Jake: Black Dog from Missouri Puppies for Parole Training Program

Jack, black Lab mixed breed dog at Puppies for Parole

Its past time we featured a black dog!  Jack is a male black Lab mix dog.  He's currently at the Jefferson city Correctional Center for his training.  His trainer describes Jack as you, energetic and very intelligent.

Right now Puppies for Parole is working with Jack on basic obedience training.  Jack is still a puppy right now.  He does have a potential home waiting for him with a man who has Parkinsons Desease.  Puppies for Parole will be working with Jack on companion training.

If you're interested in Jack or a dog like him, contact the Missouri Puppies for Parole Program.

Puppies for Parole is a unique program made possible through their partnerships with animal shelters and animal advocate groups statewide. Selected offenders have the opportunity to become trainers to rescue dogs in the program. Offenders work with the dogs teaching them basic obedience skills and properly socializing the animals, making them more adoptable. Once the dogs have successfully completed the program they will be sent back to their original shelter to be placed up for adoption. Last year in Missouri, more than 46,000 homeless canines were euthanized. Puppies for Parole hopes to reduce that number by producing loving, obedient, adoptable dogs.

German Shepherd Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts at For Love of a Dog

German Shepherd Dog Lover Pin

I wanted a German Shepherd in the worst way when I was a kid.  I grew up down the street from Fritzie, a purebred German Shepherd who, when I knew him, had retired from the show ring.  He was fabulous then, and now as I remember him.  Okay, I admit it, I also hero worshipped Rin Tin Tin.   It should come as no surprise then that I usually have an assortment of my handmade German Shepherd dog breed jewelry available at For Love of a Dog.

If you're looking for a German Shepherd dog breed pin, take a good look at the sweet handcrafted brooch shown here.. This GSD 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 air brush hand painted. True to AKC and UKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've accented the German Shepherd dog charm with Black Onyx surrounded by gold. Then I dangled them from an adorable three dimenional gold metal ribbon bow pin. Small in scale and a stylish way to show your love for this wonderful dog breed. This handcrafted dog lover pin is perfect jewelry for anyone who loves a German Shepherd dog or might be involved in GSD dog breed rescue work. A barking good gift idea from For Love of a Dog Jewelry.

Dog Song: Scottish Deerhound by Nancy Simmonds in Honor of Hickory Westminster Best in Show

Its Saturday, so time for a dog song at For Love of a Dog.  Today we have a special dog song to honor Hickory, the five year old Scottish Deerhound who won Best in Show at the 2011 Westminster Dog Show.

Scottish Deerhound is a song for children by Nancy Simmonds from her 7th Litter collection of dog related sing-a-longs.  Great slide show of Scottish Deerhound dogs accompanied by Simmonds lovey soprano.

Sit.  Stay.  Grab a Scottish Deerhound if you've got one, though any dog will do.  Relax and enjoy Scottish Deerhound written and performed by Nancy Simmonds.

French Bulldog Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts

French Bulldog Dog Lover Necklace

If you've lost your heart to one of these delightful dogs, you really should take a peek at the French Bulldog dog breed jewelry at For Love of a Dog.

Shown here is another fine handcrafted piece of French Bulldog dog breed jewelry from For Love of a Dog Jewelry. This necklace includes an adorable French Bulldog beautifully hand sculpted and painted by an American artist. True to dog breed standards and absolutely wonderful.

To create this necklace I've hand wire wrapped this little French Bulldog dog with sterling silver wire, puffy pink Rose Quartz hearts and Leopardskin Jasper in swirls of pinks, taupe and more onto a silver chain. A feminine, but not too girly piece of dog breed jewelry great for anyone who loves a French Bulldog. One of a kind and sure to inspire compliments, even from people who aren't dog lovers.

Fetch more one of a kind artisan jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  We love dogs and we love dog lovers!  Shop with this discount code at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase:  FLDNEW   Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act - Prop B - Being Dismantled in Missouri

Photo courtesy of HSUS

Skunks are not the only thing sticking around here lately.

On Tuesday, the Missouri House Agriculture Policy Committee unanimously approved a bill  - HCS HB 131 - which would repeal all of the major provisions of MO Prop B, the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act. 

You know what they said while they did it?  They said "We respect the will of the people."  Remember, MO Prop B was passed by a majority of Missouri voters in November.  How is it respectful to gut the law?

In their highly questionable wisdom, these legislators deleted the following humane care provisions from Prop B:

1. Veterinary exam for breeding dogs.  Currently a vet can visit and approve the animals' health withut examining a single dog.
2. Humane euthanasia by a veterinarian.  Currently breeders often shoot their old, infirm, and non-productive breeding stock.
3. Access to an exercise run
4. Ample space.  Current law permits lifetime confinement in a cage only six inches longer than the dog itself.
5. Protection from temperature extremes.
6. Continuous access to water.  Frozen water satisfies current requirements.
7. Prohibition of wire flooring and stacking of cages.
8. Rest between breeding cycles.

The Chair of the House Agriculture Committee had the nerve to say: "We just made it better."

Better for whom?  Certainly not the over 200,000 dogs living in Missouri puppy mills.  Certainly not for the uninformed individual purchasing a puppy that originated in one of them. 

If you live in Missouri, contact your legislator and tell them the truth about HCS HB 131.   Speak up about the necessity of protecting the welfare of dogs.  

This Week Has Been a Stinker: Skunk Attack at Talking Dogs!

Image courtesy of Park Centre Vets

No, that's not a new cologne I'm wearing.  It's the faint smell of skunk.  Won't be the first time, but definitely has been the worst of our skunk encounters.

We live in the country and have for many years, so skunks are a fact of life.  A couple of years ago one took up residence on our pond bank about 25 foot from our fenced back yard.  Pretty exciting stuff for canines.  Especially Jeffie who learned a valuable lesson about frenzied barking startling one of the black and white creatures.  Three baths later he was finally allowed free access to the house.  Thankfully extremely heavy rains caused flooding and Mrs Skunk moved on.

Our most recent encounter was totally different.  I woke at 2:30 am smelling something funny.  Like something electrical was burning.  A motor of some kind?   A prowl around the house didn't locate the cause, but made it clear that said motor must have been "going" for awhile.  The scent was pretty much everywhere, though faint.  By then all four dogs were up and wanted out.  I obliged.

3 am and Gary is up and has joined me on our search.  We're both of the mind that an electrical problem is nothing to ignore.  Not the frig, freezer or computer equipment.  Not the TVs, stereo, etc.  You get the picture.  Gary lets the dogs in and exclaims that the chemical smell is outside.  He goes out to examine the H/A compresser and while he's out he checks my studio, the greenhouse and the barn.  Smell is much stronger outside than in.

I want to be clear on this:  at no time do we smell skunk.  Honest.

Deciding I might as well get some work done, I take a cup of coffee into the office and fire up the pc.  The goldies (as we call Lucy, Jeffie and Rudy) come with me.   Oh, oh.  The office is small.  The dogs are big.  Suddenly I get a good whiff and know.  We've been skunked and skunked but good.

The past few days everybody, four leggers and two leggers, have had several baths.  The washer has been working over time.  Luckily the weather has been cooperating and yesterday we were able to fling open the windows and run the attic fan.  As of last night things are pretty much back to normal.

Like I said... this week has been a sticker!

For those of you who might need it, here's my recipe for removing skunk stink from my dogs:
1 quart hydrogen peroxide
1/4 cup baking soda
1-2 teaspoons liquid soap
You can add a little warm water.
Mix.  Massage into the fur of your dry dog and let stand 5 minutes.  Rinse.

Tomato juice does not work.  Vinegar does not work.  Trust me (you don't have to, but you should).  Developed in 1993 by chemist Paul Krebaum, this works!

And no, we have not figured out how the smell was so strong or why we didn't recognize it immediately.  The whole valley was filled with the smell.  Our neighbors are as clueless as we are, so I supposed we'll never know. 

Jeffie wonders if our old pond bank skunk died and now is haunting us.  Hmmm...

Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts

Scottish Deerhound Dog Lover Necklace

In honor of Hickory, Best in Show winner at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, today we're featuring the Scottish Deerhound dog breed.

Used for coursing in the Scottish Highlands, Scottish Deerhounds resemble the English Greyhound, but are larger with coarse shaggy hair in blue gray, brindle or fawn.  These dogs have great speed and, historically, were a great favorite with Sir Walter Scott.

Shown here is a handmade Scottish Deerhound dog lover necklace featuring a lovely 19th Century image. High quality image with excellent color. I've applied it to a small clear glass tile pendant with a silver bale. Comes on a silver chain. Great gift for any Scottish Deerhound dog lover.

Fetch For Love of a Dog for one of a kind dog lover jewelry and gifts.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Missouri Puppy Mills Will Continue if MO Senate Committee Has Their Way

How dumb do our elected officials think we are?  Pretty dumb.  The Missouri Senate will be hearing and taking action on more than one bill that guts MO Prop B - the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act.

The legislators supporting these bills assure us that they are not repealing MO Prop B, which the voters approved this past November.  Oh no, they say, they're just tweaking it. 

Their tweaks include:  no limits on the number of dogs in any commercial breeding operation, no requirement for additional space per cage, no requirements for fresh water, food or veterinary care.

Tweaks?  They're trying to gut the new law.

No honorable dog breeder is afraid of our original Prop B.  It's about the humane treatment of dogs.

Never seen a puppy mill?  Take a look at this video.  Footage is taken at puppy mill rescues while Kathy Warnick of the Humane Society of Missouri talks about the impact of puppy mills on animal shelters.

Wordless Wednesdays: Kisses from Tucker the Original Talking Dog

Though he may not bark much any more here at the Talking Dogs blog at For Love of a Dog, Tucker is still pretty free with those doggie kisses.

Scottish Deerhound Wins Big at 2011 Westminster Dog Show

Judge Paolo Dondina, handler Angela Lloyd, Hickory
Photo credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer
Courtesy CBS News

2,500 dog competed.  1 Best of Show winner.  Congratulations to Hickory and her handler, Angela Lloyd, on winning Best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

This makes a total of 15 Best in Show wins for Hickory, a five year Scottish deerhound from Virigina.

A country girl who like to run on the farm, Hickory first has some celebrity duties to discharge.  A New York city media blitz will peak at the Empire State Building.  Hickory will then go to Sardi's for sliced steak on a silver platter.  then its on to the Ronald McDonald house and visits with some pediatric oncology patients.

Mardi Growl Maskgrrrade Ball Animal Event in Kansas City

"Laissez les Bontemps Roullez"

3rd Annual Mardi Growl Maskgrrrade Ball
Friday, March 4, 2011
7 pm to 11 pm
Simpson House, just off the Country Club Plaza
Kansas City, MO

Enjoy great food, desserts, drink and entertainment at this benefit for the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation.  Silent and live auctions.  Kansas City's Fox 4 Karli Ritter will be on hand as emcee.  Live entertainment by Reunion Jazz.  For more information or to purchase tickets, contact MAAL.

Happy Valentine's Day from For Love of a Dog

Happy Valentine's Day from all of us at For Love of a Dog

West Highland White Terrier Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts

West Highland Terrier Dog Lover Earrings

You know what my friend Judy said after she got her Westie?  "Why did I wait so long?"  Judy swore that Molly, her West Highland White Terrier dog, was absolutely the perfect dog.  Since Judy was a life long dog lover, that's really saying something!

At For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts we celebrate the West Highland White Terrier with dog breed jewelry including necklaces, bracelets, pins and earrings.  Plus we offer handmade Westie artisan sculpture ornaments.

Shown here are some handcrafted West Highland White Terrier dog breed earrings will fetch compliments and start barking good conversations about your beloved Wesite dog. Beautiful West Highland White Terrier dog charms are not flat cut outs, but rather little dog art sculptures. Handmade of hand cast resin in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully air brush painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.


I've combined these West Highland White Terrier dog charms with beautiful Snow Quartz gemstone beads and gold. The color really shows off the Westie dog charms and goes with everything. These handcrafted dog earrings are perfect jewelry for anyone who loves a West Highland White Terrier dog or might be involved in Westie dog breed rescue work.

Fetch more one of a kind dog lover jewelry and gifts from For Love of a Dog.  Free standard shipping and gift box packaging with each purchase.

Adopt Aaron an Adoptable West Highland Terrier Dog Trained by MO Puppies for Parole

Aaron - a Westie mix dog from MO
Puppies for Parole training program

For Love of a Dog would like to introduce you to Aaron, a West Highland White Terrier mix dog available for adoption.

Aaron is a male Westie mix dog who is receiving his training at the South Central Correctional Center through the Puppies for Parole program. His parole office is the Animal Shelter of Texas County (which means that is the Puppies for Parole shelter / rescue partner for Aaron.)

Aaron became homeless when authorities seized him from a neglect situation.  He was confined to a wire cage and malnourished.  Aaron had no socialization skills.  He's had some health issues which have been treated.  He's certainly a cutie.

Puppies for Parole is a program of the Missouri Department of Corrections made possible through partnerships with animal shelters and animal advocate groups statewide. Selected offenders have the opportunity to become trainers to rescue dogs in the program. Offenders work with the dogs teaching them basic obedience skills and properly socializing the animals, making them more adoptable. Once the dogs have successfully completed the program they are sent back to their original shelter to be placed up for adoption. Last year in Missouri, more than 46,000 homeless canines were euthanized. Puppies for Parole hopes to reduce that number by producing loving, obedient, adoptable dogs.

Fox Terrier Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts

Lady Tootsie, a Smooth Fox Terrier Dog

The Fox Terrier dog breed originated in the British Isles in the 17th century.  At the time these dogs were often farm dogs, used to help control rats and mice,  Though I don't think my mother's Smooth Fox Terrier, Lady Tootsie, ever saw a rat in her life, I do know that she was an energetic and loving companion.  She was, however, not all that keen on wearing clothes.  She's shown here wearing her leather bomber jacket and trying to escape the camera.

At For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts, I usually have a nice selection of my handmade For Terrier dog breed jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets and pins.  I also offer a Fox Terrier dog breed leash hook that is worth a woof or two,

Fox Terrier Dog Breed Necklace

Shown here is a Smooth Fox Terrier dog lover necklace.  This piece of handcrafted dog breed jewelry features an unusual reproduction antique gilt button with a wonderful image of an smooth coated Fox Terrier. 

I've created the necklace with lots of rich garnet Austrian crystals and little goldfilled beads to accent the dog pendant. Even the extender chain is accented with a three dimensional gold dog bone and another crystal. A lovely piece of dog breed jewelry for any dog lover and a unique one of a kind gift.

Fetch For Love of a Dog to browse more one of a kind artisan dog lover jewelry and gifts.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Dog Song Saturday at For Love of a Dog - Border Collie Dazzle and her tricks

It's Saturday, so time for a dog song from For Love of a Dog.  Okay, today we present you with a dog video, not a dog song.  What can I tell you...  I'm a sucker for Border Collie dogs.  Dazzle is a beauty and she does have some dazzling tricks!  Jeffie has watched this video twice and is getting a lot of barking good ideas.   So...  grab a dog (a Border Collie if you've got one handy).  Sit.  Stay.  Enjoy!

Old English Sheepdog Dog Breed Jewelry and Gifts

Old English Sheepdog Earrings

I know I'm dating myself, but I think the first Old English Sheepdog I ever saw was in a Doris Day movie.  I was captivated!  Of course, since then I've seen others and whenever I do, I just want to bury my hands in their gorgeous coat.

At For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts I usually have a selection of Old English Sheepdog necklaces, pins, earrings and bracelets for devotees of this beautiful dog breed.

Shown here are some handcrafted Old English Sheepdog dog earrings will fetch compliments and start barking good conversations about your beloved English Sheepdog. Beautiful Old English Sheepdog dog charms are not flat cut outs, but rather little dog art sculptures. Handmade of hand cast resin in a hand sculpted mould, then carefully air brush painted. True to AKC dog breed standards, highly detailed and absolutely beautiful.

I've combined these Old English Sheepdog dog charms with beautiful white Snow Quartz gemstone beads and sterling silver beads. The color really shows off the Old English Sheepdog dog charms. These handcrafted dog earrings are perfect jewelry for anyone who loves an Old English Sheepdog dog or might be involved in herding dog breed rescue work.

Fetch For Love of a Dog to browse more dog breed jewelry and dog lover gifts.  Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

Spay and Neuter Specials for Missouri Dogs and Cats

Live in Missouri and have a pet that needs to be spayed or neutered? 

The Humane Society of Missouri has a special going on right now:  $9.95 for cats and $19.95 for dogs.  These prices are good for a limited time, so make your appointment today by calling 314-951-1534. 

Spay and neuter procedures will be done at one of the Veterinary Medical Center locations.  These clinics are just one project of the Humane Society of Missouri and are open to the public,.  All pets - not just ones who've been adopted fron the HSMO - are welcome.

The HSMO clinics include:  St Louis Veterinary Medical Center at 1201 Macklind Ave, St Louis;  Westport Area Veterinary Medical Center at 2400 Drilling Service Rd, Maryland Heights;  and the Chesterfield Valley Veterinary Medical Center, 17357 Edison Ave, Chesterfield.  Emergency medical services are also available.  Visit the HSMO veterinary clinics on the web for more information, including hours they're open.

Proceeds from the HSMO vet clinics go towards animal rescue, rehabilitation and finding homes for homeless pets.

Doberman Pinscher Dog Lover Jewelry at For Love of a Dog

My Benjamin
Doberman Pinscher / German Shepherd Cross dog

I don't know much about the origins of the Doberman Pinscher dog breed.  Originating in Germany, its said that this dog breed got its name from Louis Dobermann.  Around 1900 Mr. Dobermann wanted a medium size dog who could be a companion as well as a guard dog.  Some believe that the Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, the German Pinscher and the old shorthaired shepherd may be the dog breeds used to create what we know as the Doberman Pinscher.

Though we may not know the true history of this dog breed, I know that I love Dobies.  My own Benjamin was a Doberman Pinscher / German Shepherd cross dog.  Incredibly smart, loyal, obedient are just some of the adjectives I'd used to describe these dogs.

At For Love of a Dog Jewelry and Gifts, we usually have a variety of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and sculpture ornaments for the Doberman Pinscher dog lover.



Doberman Pinscher Dog Lover Necklace


Shown here is a wonderful handcrafted Doberman Pinscher dog breed necklace. The Dobie dog pendant is beautifully hand sculpted and air brush painted by an American artist. Molded from an original carving. 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 combined the Doberman Pinscher dog with a Black Onyx heart to create the pendant of this necklace. Then I used black and brown Mahogany Obsidian and Black Onyx gemstone beads accented with gold. The extender chain is accented with a cute three dimensional gold dog bone. A unique piece of handcrafted dog breed jewelry and a barking good gift for anyone who loves a Doberman Pinscher dog.

Fetch For Love of a Dog for more one of a kind handmade dog lover jewelry and gifts.  We love dogs.   We love dog lovers, too, so use this discount code during checkout to receive 10% off your first order:  FLDNEW   Gift box packaging and free standard shipping with each purchase.

You Need to Read this Book - Dog, Inc: The Uncanny Inside Story of Cloning Man's Best Friend

I've heard it called an earworm when a song gets stuck in your head.  So, if a book get stuck in your head, would it be a brain worm?  Whatever its called, my mind has been hashing and re-hashing John Woestendiek's new book.

Dog, Inc.:  The Uncanny Inside Story of Cloning Man's Best Friend is a book about science, big business and commerce, merchandising and salesmanship, morality and ethics, as well as the love we have for our dogs. This book proves that truth is stranger than (science) fiction. Once you pick it up you'll have a hard time putting it down. And when you do put it down, you'll find yourself returning time and again to the issues it raises.

John Woestendiek, a Pulitzer Prize winning investigative reporter, does an amazing job of explaining the ins and outs of closing man's best friend. Woestendiek gives us the scientific facts and history of cloning dogs (and other mammals) in easy to understand language. Along the way he gives us a healthy dose of the very human story. From the woman who hoped to clone the pit bull who she believed saved her life and eventually purchased what would be the first commercially produced dog clones, to a billionaire who decides to make a profit from cloning his family dog, to the scientists who made dog cloning a reality.

Each step along the way there are fascinating stories to be told, and told they are by Woestendiek with the same charm, good humor and keen observation that readers of his popular blogs ohmidog! and Travels with Ace have come to expect. It's obvious that this guy does his homework, personally grapples with the issues, can maintain objectivity, enjoys true human stories, and loves dogs.

As the author says:


"Like most good dog stories, the saga of dog cloning probably reveals more about humans than canines - our innate need for power, fame, money, and love; our thirst of instant, or at least speedy, gratification; our uniquely human refusal to accept the finality of death, and our overwhelming desire to control the world in which we live. And, like most good dog stories, it likely contains some lessons for those who navigate on two legs, the kind of wordless tutelage dogs have been offering for centuries - if only we'd listen. With the cloning of dog, man may have crossed the final barrier to cloning humans. ..."

I'm a dog lover. I've often jokingly said I'd like to clone Lucy, my "heart dog." I won't be saying that anymore. It's no joke and it is no longer the stuff of science fiction. If you've got about $100,000 to spare, you can clone your beloved dog if you want to. I'll pass. When the time comes, I'll head for the nearest animal shelter.

You can find Dog, Inc. at Amazon and other book sellers.

Wordless Wednesdays: Puppy Rudy's Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home

Our yellow lab puppy, Rudy, aka Bitey Whitey, takes a break.