Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Wordless Wednesday: Rainy Day Dogs

Rainy day?  Have mama put peanut butter in a couple of Kongs.
Check out your brother's Kong to make sure it has the same goodies.
Work on getting that yummy peanut butter out.
Trade Kongs!
Share the good stuff!

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Heart Dog Sisterhood

The hot lick of pain comes at both expected and unexpected moments as my life goes on without my heart dog, Lucy.  Some mornings I wake thinking this must all have been a bad dream.  Then I reach down beside me... and there's no Lucy.

You know what I mean.

I know you know what I mean because so many of you have written kind comments on this blog or Facebook, sent me messages and wonderful sympathy e-cards, and even published a tribute to my girl.  And, as I was trying to write a thank you note to the later, it felt to me like we are members of a very special group:  those who have found - and, for some of us, lost - our heart dogs.

Like you, my dogs are not "just dogs."  Far from it.  They are beloved family members.

In my case, I've had a dog since I was in the womb.  I've never been dogless.  (And I don't ever want to be.)  Each of my dogs is collection of stories to tell about their own unique spirits and our slice of life adventures together.  There will be quite a crowd when I cross that Rainbow Bridge and my heart swells with love when I think about seeing them again.

If the dogs in my life are apples, my heart dog is an orange.  All are fruit, but they are not the same.  If you don't understand that, you've not had that special connection yet.  You'll know it when you have that once in a lifetime dog, that furry canine soul mate.

In my case I knew it from the very beginning.  It's hard to put into words, but I felt a deep connection with Lucy immediately.  That connection only grew into something more wonderful each and every day.

That's Lucy in my business logo and she is the dog in For Love of a Dog.  The heart in her mouth?  She gave me her heart.  And I gave my heart to her.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Conway Missouri Puppy Mill A-Lick-A-Hope Kennels Closed

Another Missouri puppy mill has been shut down.  Lori Gross, owner and operator of A-Lick-A-Hope Kennels in Conway, Missouri is now prohibited from operating any dog breeding facility in the state for ten years.

Located just a few miles from us, we're dog-goned glad to see it closed.  Conditions reported in our local newspaper were shocking.  We're equally bothered by the number of locals who seemingly knew all about it, yet turned a blind eye and did not report the abuse.  Until now.

Missouri Department of Agriculture inspections of her operation revealed numerous violations of state animal welfare laws including:
  • Failure to provide clean, dry bedding
  • Failure to provide wind and rain breaks to protect the dogs from the elements
  • Failure to keep food receptacles clean and sanitized
  • Failure to provide clean drinking water
  • Failure to collect and remove animal waste
  • Faiture to clean and sanitize the facility
  • Failure to provide housing that protected the animals from injury
  • Failure to provide adequate veterinary care to animals obviously in medical distress.
In addition to being prohibited from doing business in Missouri, Gross has also been assessed a $1,000 civil penalty, $100 for inspection fees, and assessed all costs associated with the court case that resulted in these penalties.

Since the passage of the Missouri Animal Care Facilities Act and Canine Cruelty Prevention Act, there's been a real crackdown thanks to the dedication of Missouri Attorney General Chris Kostner and Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler.   A Canine Cruelty Prevention Unit was established, more inspectors were added and we've seen many dog breeding operations closed.  The Missouri Canine Cruelty Prevention Unit reports over 5,500 dogs have been rescued from substandard facilities since January 2009.

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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Adopt Sage: Abused Golden Retriever Dog with 3 Legs

Sage is only 7 to 8 months old and already she's had a heck of a life.  This young Golden Retriever mix was shot by her owners and abandoned.  

When Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary rescued Sage, both of her front legs had healed incorrectly.  A terrific veterinarian worked some surgical magic and was able to save one of her legs, but the other was amputated. 

Sage is a tripod now and getting along great. 

This sweet Golden girl loves to cuddle on the couch and is mostly housebroken.  Sage is current on vaccinations and already spayed and microchipped.  This beautiful survivor is ready for a long, happy life with a forever family.

Room in your heart and home for this rescue dog?  Contact Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary in Columbia, Missouri at 573-445-1680 and ask them about Sage.

Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary is a private, non profit animal welfare corporation in Columbia, Missouri.  HTAS is supported solely by donations, grants, and bequests.  Established in 1998, they are committed to quality placements, not quantity adoptions.  HTAS has no permanent physical facility; all of their animals are in private foster homes.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Dog Song Saturday: I Miss You Music Video

It's Saturday, so time for a dog song here at Talking Dogs.  Today's music video is in honor of my recently departed and beloved heart dog, Lucy. As the song says, things will never be the same.  I Miss You is composed and performed by Justine Bennett.  The video is a lovely slide show of remembered pets.

So grab a dog.  Sit. Stay and enjoy I Miss You by Justine Bennett.  Then be sure to scroll down below the dog music video and explore some barking good dog blogs because today is a Pet Blogger Hop.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Losing my Heart Dog Lucy


For almost 14 years, each morning before I even got out of bed, my hand would drop to pat Lucy's sweet head.  Each night before I went to sleep, I gave Lucy one last "ear job" for the day.  

And in between - all day and every day for all these years - Lucy was beside me.  Literally.  She made true that quotation about the heartbeat at my feet.  Or, more often than not, the heartbeat on my feet.

When we went over to the neighbors to look at their 5 week old puppies, Lucy was the first puppy I scooped up.  She grunted and I exclaimed "Oooh, Gary!  She's talking!"  The puppy fever requires one to examine all possible puppies, so in moments I'd lost track of that first pup.  I already knew I had to have the talking puppy with the little white tippy toes.


At the tender age of 5 weeks old, Lucy became a shop dog.  She went with me to work at our antique shop and greeted all comers.  She took strolls around the courthouse square and charmed one and all.  

Lucy was my dog from the very beginning.  Oh, she loved her daddy and she loved her canine brother, Tucker.  But Lucy chose me as much as I chose her.


We had a mutual connection of the heart.  It is a love affair like no other I've ever experienced with any creature.  



Monday was a day like any day.  Tuesday dawned with a rain storm in progress.  Lucy hates storms and was in a state of anxiety.  I soon realized that the storm had little to do with her distress.  Until the vet arrived, I spent the day on the floor holding her, brushing her, loving her.  

Our vet confirmed what we already knew in our hearts - there was nothing he could do.  We let him end her suffering and struggle for life.
 
As I told my friend Elizabeth, over at the Chronicles of Cardigan, someday I may be able to appreciate the irony.   Lucy - the love of my life, my shadow, my handmaiden, my heart dog - died of heart failure.
Of course I knew this day was coming.  I just didn't expect it to come now and so suddenly.  Besides, I don't think there's any way to truly prepare.


Gary remarked Tuesday evening:  Just 4 months ago we had 4 dogs.  That yawning gap in our lives just got a whole lot bigger.  A whole lot.


I'm sure Tucker is showing her the ropes in heaven and the two of them are checking the perimeter together.  Her hips are renewed; cataracts gone.  Surely someone is shaking a rope monkey in her face to see her doing those little jumps of joy.  No more special diet; she can eat all the treats she wants.  By now Tucker has found the wild strawberries and a perfect napping spot under a big shady holly tree.  She'd like that. 

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

In Mourning for my Heart Dog Lucy


Lucy B 
June 13, 1997 - February 21, 2012

My heart has flown right out of my chest and broken into a million pieces.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Adopt Cupcake a Pit Bull Terrier Australian Cattle Dog Mix

A dog named Cupcake is pretty hard to resist.  Especially when watching the below video of this sweet darling dog.  It's obvious how she got her name; Cupcake is a sweetie.

Cupcake is a brown brindle and white Australian Cattle Dog and Pit Bull Terrier mixed breed dog.  She's about one year old and still has lots of puppy energy, so it would be best if she went to an active home.  Cupcake prefers to go outside to take care of her business, walks nicely on a leash, and already knows how to sit for treats.

This sweet dog is already spayed and up to date with shots.  Cupcake is currently living at the Humane Society of Missouri St Louis animal shelter.  She's looking for love and a forever home.  Interested in Cupcake?  Find out more by calling 314-951-1562.  Cupcake's animal shelter identification number is A523522.

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Dog Song Saturday: Just a Dog

Trent Boswick and Dexter
It's Saturday, so time to take a moment and enjoy a dog song at Talking Dogs!   Today's is not really a song about dogs, but a beautiful, extremely high quality, music video presentation about loving dogs.

Just a Dog? features a slide show of dog photographs taken at Point Pleasant Park by Trent Boswick and his dog Dexter.  In Just a Dog, Trent explores that phrase we often hear:
From time to time, people tell me, 'lighten up, it's just a dog, or, 'that's a lot of money for just a dog."
Trent explains in images and words exactly why those people just don't understand.  The music that accompanies Just a Dog is Everywhere I Go by Lissie and definitely provides a perfect backdrop for this photo essay about loving dogs.

His love for dogs shines in Just a Dog, as well as his photography skills.  Trent blogs about dogs at Dogs 4 Point Pleasant Park in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  Fetch it to enjoy more of his wonderful dog photos and learn about this dog friendly park.

So, grab a dog.  Sit.  Stay.  Settle back to enjoy Just a Dog, because if you're reading this, you're gonna love it!   Then if you in the mood, fetch some more dog songs and videos at Talking Dogs.   Be sure to come back here to scroll down below the video to check out some barking good dog blogs, because today is a Pet Blogger Hop!

Friday, February 17, 2012

Stray Rescue Big Winner in Grow St Louis Contest Fall 2011

In the fall of 2011, a groundswell of people who care about dogs began a grass roots effort to make sure that Stray Rescue of St Louis was the winner in the Monsanto Grow St Louis Contest.  

And they were successful.  

Listen to Randy Grimm, founder of Stray Rescue describe the beginning of this animal rescue group and what winning will do for the dogs of St Louis.



Stray Rescue of St Louis has been going into city neighborhood for years and rescuing the abused, tortured and neglected dogs and cats.  Operating solely on donations and compassion, Stray Rescue has approximately 1,500 volunteers who care for these animals and make sure they are adopted into loving homes.  Visit the Stray Rescue of St Louis website for more information on adoptable cats and dogs, video of animal rescues, information about abandoned animals in St Louis and much more.

During the summer of 2011, Monsanto pledged to help St Louis grow by awarding $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000 awards to local projects quarterly.  Hundreds of people submitted non-profit organizations and projects and thousands voted for the winners.

Stray Rescue of St Louis was the Fall 2011 first place winner and received $15,000 which will be used to complete an animal shelter renovation and for the Stray Rescue Strack's Fund which covers medical expenses for the animals.

Another round of the Grow St Louis contest will begin soon.  Follow Grow St Louis on Facebook to find out more..

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Wordless Wednesday: Snow Dogs!

Rudy was so excited to explore his newly white kingdom!

Even thought the snow was coming down so hard he had to squint his eyes to see.

The dynamic dog duo setting off ...

They didn't last long...

We (finally) got some snow!  When it began I was as excited as the canines and eagerly looking forward to playing (with them) in the white stuff.  Ha!  With wind chills down to 10 degrees and blizzard conditions... none of us last too long out there.  Jeffie's face says it all.
I did manage to snap a photo of one of resident hawks.  No, that is not dirt on the camera lens.  It really was a whiteout for most of the day.  Just for good measure, about 4pm Mother Nature decided we really needed some sleet to top things off.  It was like styrofoam falling from the sky.


The bird feeders were well attended all day long.  Seemed to be a case of avian segregation.  Cardinals at the red feeder; red wing blackbirds at the other.  Other birds squeezed in where they could.  Cardinals mooched at the finch feeder, but I had no luck with a good photo since that feeder is on the other side of the house.  Just too much snow falling at once.


I'm pretty sure Rudy is wishing I'd put down the camera and rescue him from the arctic!

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

About Puppy Mills and Dog Songs

You're probably wondering about the connection between puppy mills and dogs songs.  For me the two are connected by phone calls and email messages from readers.

Over the years that I've been blogging here at Talking Dogs, I've found that I rarely get comments from readers.  However, I do receive email messages and telephone calls about blog posts I've written.

Since I began devoting Saturday's posts to Dog Song Saturday, I've received tons of fan mail thanking me.  Love to get those messages!  Some readers have even called.  One fellow from Texas talked for about half an hour about our dog songs being used to accompany a children's float in their local Christmas parade.  Now, that put a big smile on my face.

Missouri puppy mills is the other blog topic that generates quite a response.  Unfortunately, for me, it generates a lot of hate mail from commercial dog breeders (puppy mill owners.)  This past Saturday was an exception.

A toy poodle dog breeder (I'll call her Mary) from Ohio called me.  She first clarified that I was the person who'd written about [name withheld dog breeder].  I hesitantly acknowledged that was me.  In fact, I was pretty quiet and kept my answers to her initial questions to a bare minimum.  What was going through my head:  oh no, now these people have tracked down my phone number!

Wrong.  Majorly wrong.  Mary turned out to be a highly dedicated dog breeder.  She'd been approached by [name withheld] who wanted to buy some puppies from her.  Because Mary wants to know exactly where her puppies are going, she hopped on the internet and googled [name withheld].  There Mary found my blog post about her want-to-be puppy buyer... who'd lost her commercial dog breeder license in Missouri for many violations of the law.  

We chatted for awhile and the conversation underscored what I've been saying for years.  A reputable dog breeder cares about their dogs.  They make sure they are well socialized, have access to good veterinary care, and they are placed in good homes.  Many follow the whole life of the puppy, keeping diligent health records, as well as show ring accomplishments noted in their files.  They certainly don't knowingly sell their puppies into slavery.


While I strongly encourage adopting from a shelter, I recognize the value of ethical, honorable dog breeders.  

Hmmm... where's a dog song about that?!

Dogs Never Lie About Love

Dogs never lie about love.

Happy Valentine's Day!
from all of us at 

Monday, February 13, 2012

Winter Critter Visitors at For Love of a Dog

It all began with a toad glued to a window in September...  Last Wednesday I promised to share some photos of rather odd wildlife visitors here at the For Love of a Dog and Talking Dogs homestead.  Today's the day.

As I mentioned in my Red Sky at Morning post, this winter has been a strange one.  Unseasonably warm and mild, with - so far- none of the usual ice and freezing rain to contend with.  However, I should note that as I write this, it is snowing.  I can't help but think that our strange weather has resulted in some unusual wildlife sightings.

We live in the country and we're used to seeing wildlife.  However, not as close up and personal as we have this year.  Deer?  Yup, see them frequently.  Herds of deer?   No, not as large as the group that spent a week or so with us.  Twelve total deer and fawns.  Pretty cool.  Very close to the house and yard!  Unfortunately, my trigger finger was never quick enough to catch a photo of the whole group.  Rather than simply grazing, they spent a lot of time playing and frolicking.
These three deer seem to have the same feeling about cameras that our dogs do!
We have a series of small spring fed ponds that border our backyard (the 2 acre fenced area for the dogs) and herons frequently visit.  This one was not going to be deterred - by barking dogs - from catching his breakfast.



Another water visitor was this solo wood duck who stayed for several days. Unlike the Canadian geese who visit us in pairs or small flocks, this fellow was alone.  Each morning I cringed... thinking he might have fallen victim to the marauding coyotes that also frequently visit us.  One afternoon, he simply flew away.
He looked so lonely to me...

The strangest visitors this year have been this pair of hawks.  Sure, we see plenty of hawks around here.  In the sky.  However, it was amazing to glance out a front window and see this pair just sitting in the front yard.  For hours.  Just sitting and once in awhile fluffing their feathers.



They've been with us all winter and we often see them circling our fields, now and then diving down to snatch their prey.  Last week we noticed one on the gate leading to the spring ponds.  The hawk perched there for quite a while.  Suddenly he swooped down towards the water to grab something and flew up into a tree to examine it.  Looked like pond scum to me...  Suspect he decided the fields were a better source of dinner!


I've yet to capture a photo of the armadillos that are becoming more numerous in our part of the country.  They tend to sneak into the yard at night with the express purpose of rooting up all of my flower bulbs.   And, because they also visit us at night, I've not captured any images of the coyotes.  They've been visiting frequently.  Enough so that we're careful about letting the dogs out after dark.

Mild weather?  Critters getting used to us?  I can't say for sure.  I only know it has been a pretty wild winter even without wild weather!

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Adopt Velvet: Black and Tan Coonhound GSD mix

If you're thinking about adding a dog to your family, please consider Velvet.  This black and tan Coonhound and German Shepherd Dog mix is a real cutie.  Velvet is about 1 year old and currently living at the Humane Society of Missouri Maryland Heights animal shelter.

Velvet walks nicely on a leash and sits on command.  She loves people and would love to have a forever home.  Take a closer look at Velvet in the video below.  If you have room in your heart and home, contact the HSMO at 314-951-1588 and get more information about this wonderful dog.  Velvet's identification number is A522955

18th Annual PetsMart Wiener Dog Derby is Today!

Dachshund lovers and their lovable companions will gather in Soulard Market Park in St Louis today for the 18th annual PetsMart Wiener Dog Derby.  There will be a tournament brackets, medals for the winners, and St Louis radio talent will be calling the race.

Registration begins at 10 am at the park; cost is $10 to register your Dachshund.  The first heat takes place at 2pm.  Dachshund dogs race in three divisions bases on age:  Cocktail Wienies, Ballpark Franks, and Hot dogs.  The finals are followed by the trophy presentation ceremony in the Wiener's Circle.  

Free to watch, the Wiener Dog Derby is just one event that's part of the Historic St Louis Missouri Soulard neighborhood annual Mardi Gras.

One of the Dachshund dogs racing today is Gunner, the little brother of Roscoe P Coltrane.  Last year Roscoe crossed the starting line, did a u-turn and went back to the beginning.  Roscoe passed away in January 2012 and owner, Jacki, is hoping Gunner will cross the finish line for Roscoe.

Soulard's Mardi Gras also includes the Pet Parade and it's one of world's largest.  Check out the dogs in costume and have a look at the race:
For more information about the Mardi Gras in Soulard events, visit their website www.mardigrasinc.com

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Dog Song Saturday: More Than a Feeling Video

It's Dog Song Saturday here at Talking Dogs!  Take a moment to relax and unwind from this past week and enjoy a dog song video about dogs.

Today's dog song is not a song originally written about dogs.  However, as a dog lover you already know that many love songs could easily be talking about our best friends.  This is definitely true of More Than A Feeling by Boston.  Here this song is a lovely compliment to a tribute video for "everyone who loves dogs."

Get your puppy fix and enjoy all kinds of dogs in all kinds of situations in this video created by samoyedbg and originally posted on Dogwork.  We love the message to give a dog a second chance and adopt a pet from an animal shelter.

Grab a dog.  Sit. Stay.  Relax and enjoy More Than a Feeling.  If you're in the mood, you can check out more dog songs, many of which are original songs about dogs, at Talking Dogs Dog Songs.   Then be sure to come back and scroll down below today's dog song video to explore some barking good dog blogs because today is a Pet Blogger Hop.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Westminster Dog Show 2012 Welcomes 6 New Dog Breeds

The 2012 Westminster Dog show is February 13 and 14 at Madison Square Garden.  This year they welcome six new dog breeds to this competition which is in it's 136th year and includes 179 other dog breeds.
  • The American English coonhound - bred from Virginia hounds which were descended from English foxhounds.
  • The Cesky terrier = a short-legged hunting dog
  • The Entlebucher mountain dog - the smallest of the four dog breeds native to Switzerland.
  • The Finnish lapphund - reindeer-hearding dogs from northern Scandinavia
  • The Norwegian Lundehund - the six-toed "puffin" dog of Norway
  • The Xoloitzcuintli - formerly known as the Mexican hairless and the national dog of Mexico.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Dakota's Den Review of Sheltie Jewelry at For Love of a Dog

Dakota the Sheltie dog who blogs.  
I am so thrilled to read another glowing review of my For Love of a Dog jewelry work!  This time on the Dakota's Den dog blog!

Dakota's mom ordered a piece of my Sheltie dog jewelry and was very happy about it.  In fact, she said this was the most realistic piece of Sheltie jewelry she'd ever seen.  You can read the full review - Valentine's Day Is Coming! Need Gifts for Dog Lovers? - at Dakota's blog.

I love hearing from happy For Love of a Dog customers and this fabulous review really made my day! Thank you so much, Dakota!

Of course, being a dog person, I had to explore the whole blog!  Dakota's Den - daily doings of a dog named Dakota, Let the Barking Begin! is great reading!  You'll find dog news, information, photos, book reviews, product reviews and much more, in addition to Dakota's reports on life at home. 

Do you love that photo of Dakota?  I do.  It was taken celebrating Dakota's Gotcha Day, October 19, 2007.  Dakota was a birthday present for her mom who had a life-long wish for a Sheltie dog.  

Now you can join Dakota for dog news you can use and doggy fun you'll enjoy every day!  As Dakota says, let the barking begin!

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Wordless Wednesday: Red Sky at Morning



Our sunrise yesterday morning seemed to agree with weather forecasts and I snapped a photo of a small flock of geese heading towards the rising sun.

The predicted rain held itself to a mist off and on all day, but we made sure to fill all the bird feeders and play lots of Jolly Ball and frisbe in anticipation of storms to come.  Thankfully, the predicted freezing drizzle and ice has yet to materialize.
So far this year, we've had a strangely mild winter.  A skiff of snow early on, but abnormally warm temperatures since then.  My daylilies are up; forsythia and fruit trees are budded.  We've not had any of the wicked ice storms that our area usually deals with and, a bit sorry to say, no snow for the pups to play in.  However, we have had some up close and personal visits from wildlife that are as strange as the weather.  I'll be sharing some photos of those with you soon!


Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Woofs of Thanks to Cat Chat with Caren and Cody

Caren & Cody .
I find myself in serious danger of getting the big head. 

When I was catching up on email on Friday, I found a special one from a happy For Love of a Dog jewelry customer. To say I love hearing from my customers (pet people!) is an understatement.  However, this message really was special.

Caren had previously emailed me to tell me how happy she was with her purchases. 

In fact I'd even added her comments on my Kudos page of customer reviews at For Love of a Dog:

OMG! I am TOTALLY BLOWN AWAY! Guess what arrived and they TOTALLY SURPASSED my expectations! OMG! Your wrapping is just adorable (even your tape)... love the chocolate brown theme and the pawprints! OMG! My necklace! I am dying! I bought a Sheltie necklace from Bradford Exchange that yours runs rings around! Also, my cat earrings! They remind me of the Kilban Cats and I am just crazy about these! I am just ecstatic... thrilled! Caren G

This message on Friday was to alert me that she'd written a blog post about her shopping experience with me: Friday Find! For Love of a DOG!   

Wow!  Totally unexpected.  And what a fabulous feline review!  Yes, you read that right.  Caren and her cat, Cody, write the Cat Chat with Caren & Cody blog.  Her post is a long one in which she details her shopping experience with For Love of a Dog, complete with photos of her jewelry purchases and our packaging.

We always love hearing from happy customers, but this is especially thrilling!  Fetch Caren and Cody's post to find a nice discount code from us to her readers, plus be sure to explore the fun feline news at Cat Chat with Caren & Cody.

We're grateful for the spectacular review and truly delighted.  Thanks, Caren & Cody!  

Monday, February 6, 2012

Pit Bull dog owners have a message for McDonald's

Don't miss this slideshow "Hey McDonald's, My pit bull is a rescued stray!" photo project put together by BADRAP.  Hundreds of emailed and facebooked photos were sent to BADRAP after McDonald's made a damaging comment about stray dogs - pit bulls specifically - in a radio spot in the Kansas City area.  

McDonald's Chicken McBites "Risky" ad was a radio ad which aired on February 3, 2012.  This clip was recorded from 99.7 the point in Kansas City.

McDonald's has since offered a public apology for the error and pulled the ad.


America's Bark Off to McDonald's from BADRAP.org on Vimeo.

Doghouse Rock Detergent from Rockin Green Product Review

We love using products that are good for the planet.  We garden organically, cook slow food from scratch, recycle and feed our pets organic food.  So, it will come as no surprise that we were intrigued with an eco-friendly dog toy and bedding detergent.

Most detergents are designed to leave something behind: fabric softener, fragrance, or optical brighteners.  This residue is a breeding ground for dirt and bacteria and can be toxic to pets.

Doghouse Rock Pet Bedding and Toy Detergent from Rockin' Green contains none of those pet hazards.  It's a clean rinsing detergent that can be used on chew toys and pet bedding without any worry or residue or toxic chemicals.

Doghouse Rock is made of safe, phosphate free ingredients which makes it good for the planet and your furry pals.  No dyes, no fillers, no enzymes, 100% Phosphate free.  Actual ingredients are sodium carbonate, sodium percardonate, natural chelating agents, sodium sulfate, biodegradable surfactants.

Rockin' Green supplied us with a full size bag of Doghouse Rock to try.  Delivery was fast and via UPS.  Packaging is recyclable and clearly states the ingredients and instructions for use.  Unlike supermarket laundry detergents, the scent of Doghouse Rock is subtle and clean. 

Easy to use, just put the dog bedding or toys in the washing machine and do a quick warm rinse.  Then add 2 tablespoons of Doghouse Rock detergent and run a wash cycle.  

Dog House Rock is a big winner at our house.  Using only two tablespoons per load of laundry resulted in definitely clean, fresh smelling pet bedding.  We highly recommend it!

You may like Doghouse Rock so well that you'll want to try Rockin' Green's other eco-friendly laundry products.  You'll find lots of amazing varieties including:    Choose from scents: Mighty Mighty Marshmallow, Smashing Watermelons, Earth Wind & Orchids, Motley Clean, Lavender Mint Revival, and Bare Naked Babies.  Rage against the Raspberry is their best seller.  They even have an odor neutralizer and room spray that comes in all their fun scents.

Rockin' Green was founded by Kim Webb in 2009.  Kim was looking for a smart way to clean cloth diapers and protect her child's sensitive skin.   Rockin' Green eco-friendly products include several varieties of cleaning products with some great scents.

Doghouse Rock Pet Bedding and Toy Detergent can be ordered directly from Rockin Green.  One bag contains enough detergent for 25 washing machine loads and costs $13.95.  Visit Rockin' Green on the web at www.rockingreensoap.com  Rockin' Green is also available at retailers nationwide.  Fetch Doghouse Rock detergent at a location near you with Rockin' Green's handy interactive map.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Adopt Cora a Senior Beagle Dog

Cora was a breeder dog and has the c-section scars to prove it.  When she got older, she got dumped.  

Cora is about 7 years old.  She's a small size Beagle dog and weighs only 13 pounds.  Cora is spayed, up to date on routine shots, and is looking for a forever home to live for the rest of her life.

Currently Cora is living at Dogwood Animal Shelter in Osage Beach, Missouri.  She's one of two Beagles who will greet you at the door when you come to the shelter.  She's been there for 6 months now and, cute as she is, she's still looking for love. That may be because of her age, but shelter staff report that Cora can still keep up with the young pups. 

Right now Dogwood Animal Shelter is offering an adoption special with all kennel dogs half off their regular adoption fees.  Dogwood is a no-kill animal shelter and they are full.  Adoption fees include all shots, spaying / neutering and a microchip.

If you have room in your heart and house for a devoted furry friend, please consider adoption this sweet senior Beagle dog.  For more information about Cora, call Dogwood Animal Shelter at 573-348-4411.  You can also visit their website at www.daslakeoftheozarks.com/ or fetch adoptable pets on Petfinder.

Valentine Gift Ideas for Dog Lovers: Jewelry

You can ask my husband and he will confirm that I'd not ever turn down flowers or chocolates.  However, to skew a slogan from the jewelry and gift industry - jewelry is forever.  And what better Valentine's gift could there be for a dog lover than dog bone jewelry!

Shown to the left is a fabulously fun, chunky dog lover necklace in Valentine red. This one of a kind, handmade artisan necklace features lots of deep red handcrafted porcelain beads in funky cubes and red jasper gemstone beads, all hand wire wrapped into a necklace chain.

Check out those very cool dog bones!  They're hand sculpted from porcelain with WOOF embedded in the surface.  Talk about cute!  Of course the pendant is a big, fat red porcelain heart.

If your Valentine is devoted to animal rescue, then you should definitely, have a look at the dog bone themed rescue bracelet shown below.  Once again, this is a one of a kind piece of artisan jewelry featuring hand sculpted dog bones - this time embedded is the word RESCUE.  Combined with coordinating red porcelain wheel beads and red jasper gemstone beads, this bracelet would make a real Valentine statement for a dog lover.
And don't miss the WOOF dog lover earrings that coordinate with those jewelry pieces shown above.  More of these wonderful WOOF embedded porcelain dog bones with red porcelain beads freely dangle from silver leverback earring findings. 

Fetch more Valentine's Day gift ideas for dog lovers at For Love of a Dog.  All of our items are handmade right here in our Missouri Ozarks studio and almost all are one of a kind creations.  We offer dog breed jewelry and gifts in over 80 dog breeds, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, pins, pendants, ornaments and dog leash holders.   We offer a similar variety of items in mixed breed mutt dog jewelry, plus dog rescue jewelry, too.  Because our items are handmade and unique, shop now for best selection.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Dog Song Saturday: Coon Dog Song by Karren Pell

It's Saturday!  Time for a dog song at Talking Dogs.  Today we're celebrating Coon Dogs!  The Coon Dog Song is an original dog song written by Karren Pell about the Key Underwood Memorial Coon Dog Cemetery.  It's accompanied by a wonderful video story of this historical coon dog cemetery.

Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Cemetery is located in Northwest Alabama. It was established in 1937 by Key Underwood when he buried his faithful coondog, Troop.   Only Coon Hounds are allowed to be buried here and today more than 185 coon dogs call it home.  Visit their website to view the wonderful grave markers and eulogies for these beloved dogs.  But first, you need to hear this song!

Grab a dog - a Coon Dog if you've got one!  Sit.  Stay.  Relax and enjoy Coon Dog Song performed by Karren Pell.   If you're in the mood, check out some more dog songs at Talking Dogs.  Then come back and scroll down below today's dog song video to explore some barking good dog blogs, because today is a Pet Blogger Hop.


Friday, February 3, 2012

Watch 2011 AKC Eukanuba National Championship Dog Show on ABC

Don't forget to tune in to ABC tomorrow, Saturday, February 4 to watch the AKC / Eukanuba National Championship 2011 dog show.  Scheduled for 2 pm EST, but you should check your local television listings.

We'll be watching for Talking Dogs' favorite black Labrador Retriever dog, Calypso (GCH CH Kaltrav Caribbean Cruise JH.)     Calypso won Best of Breed at Eukanuba!

Dogs Star in Super Bowl Sunday Ads

From the VW Super Bowl Ad...
We're not football fans at our house, but Super Bowl advertisers make the game hard to miss.  Dogs are are the major stars in this year's ads.

Volkswagon's ad features Bolt, a 3 year old Australian Shepherd and St Bernard mix that goes on a Jedi-like quest to be worthy to chase the new Beetle.

Beer giant, Anheuser-Busch will have two dog ads this year.  Their Budweiser ad shows that brand's iconic Dalmation for a few moments.  Their Bud Light ad stars Weego, a rescue dog who fetches a bottle whenever he hears someone say, "Here, Weego."

Skechers is running an ad featuring a French Bulldog named Mr Quiggly who will be racing a pack of greyhounds.

American Suzuki Motor Corporation has an all new dog ad called "Sled", which highlights their new Suzuki Kizashi Sport Sedan.

We can only hope that this funny Doritos Dog Park commercial will air, too.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Dog Politics: President Obama and Bo

Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
It was bound to happen.

Much has been made of Mitt Romney's family trip years ago - you know, the one when he transported Seamus, the family dog, in a pet carrier on top of his station wagon. 

Newt Gingrich has made a few jabs at Romney and set up a Pets for Gingrich web site.

Now we have a tweeted photo of our president, Barack Obama and First Dog, Bo, traveling in the backseat of a vehicle.  The caption:  "How loving owners transport their dogs."

Can it be a coincidence that the same day as the tweet, the Obama campaign launch a Facebook page called "Pet Lovers for Obama."  The page features Bo saying "I bark for Barack" and invites supporters to submit photos of their pets in Obama 2012 gear.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

New Elevated Pet Feeder Vintage Red Arrow Repurposed Crate

This new elevated dog feeder is an eco friendly creation from For Love of a Dog. Elevate your dog's food and water bowls to minimize joint stress and keep them off the floor with this re-purposed vintage Red Arrow wooden crate pet feeder.

Beautiful original Red Arrow beverages graphics in their original condition are accented with the new coordinating red accents.  The dog feeder top was handcrafted from pine, stained to match the vintage crate with some stylish trim stained matching red.

Two cute 1 quart steel bowls are embossed with dog paw prints and lift out for easy cleaning.  Plus there are foam gaskets to stabilize them and protect the interior storage compartment.  In fact, the whole dog feeder top can be easily be lifted off so you can store pet supplies, dog leashes, dog food and treats or whatever you'd like inside.  Great for traveling with your dog!

Since this elevated dog feeder was made from a vintage crate, it is one of a kind.  However, For Love of a Dog offers other unique elevated dog feeders in many sizes.  Be sure to read the For Love of a Dog guide to dog feeder size.   Fetch For Love of a Dog Jewelry & Gifts today for best selection.  Remember, shipping for these dog feeders is free and via UPS.