For dog lovers around the world, one of the most frustrating and devastating realities we have to face, is that of the continued existence of puppy mills: large-scale breeding operations where the number one consideration is profit, instead of the well-being of dogs. Puppy mill owners resort to practices such as over-breeding and inbreeding, and their dogs are often subject to unsanitary conditions, hunger, sickness and a lack of socialization. It is hard to believe that many dogs in these mills spend almost the entirety of their lives in cramped cages, often with not enough food to get by, forced to churn out puppies shortly after every heat.

Puppy Mill Action Week is a yearly event organised by the Humane Society (HSUS) and celebrated around the world; scheduled on the Monday before Mother’s Day, its aim is to put an end to this cruel industry. From May 6 to 12, 2013, the HSUS carries out a series of events including competitions (last year there was a cool video competition called Why Puppy Mills Stink), rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of puppy mill owners and awareness events for the many people who don’t understand how, through a seemingly innocent act like buying a pup from a pet shop, the classified ads or the Internet, they could actually be promoting a lifetime of cruelty for that pup’s parents. In this post, we suggest a few ways you can do your share to put an end to puppy mills:

• Take a brave stance: Visit your local pet shop and ask them to consider being part of the Puppy Friendly Pet Store initiative, which encourages them to stop selling animals and to support local adoption programs.
• Get the press on your side: Write to your local newspaper editor and ask for their support. A friendly editor can back your cause by either refusing to advertise pet stores and puppy mill ‘for sale’ campaigns, or by writing informative articles on the conditions faced by dogs raised in puppy mills.
• Hone your writing skills in guest blogs and websites: Check out animal blogs and offer to write a guest post; spread the word on puppy mills.
• Advocate for Change: As part of National Puppy Mill Action Week, the HSUS will be hosting a web-based seminar on May 7th where they will inform and educate participants about the lives of animals in puppy mills, the most common problems inherent in these mass breeding facilities, and what can be done to address them. Participants will be given tools to report suspected puppy mills, and learn how to educate their communities about this form of animal cruelty. Learn more and register here.
• Consider adopting a shelter dog instead of buying one: Did you know that between 5 and 7 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide every year, and that between 3 and 4 million of these animals are euthanized? Some 25 per cent of dogs admitted into shelters are purebred; this information may be of interest of you if you are particularly taken with one breed – indeed, there are many rescue societies that specialize in particular breeds.
• If you do decide to buy a dog, make sure it is from a reputable breeder that conducts the relevant genetic tests for the particular breed (for instance, CERF eye exam, BAER auditory test and patella tests, etc. for Boston terriers – each  breed is prone to particular health problems which should be prevented to the extent they can through responsible breeding). Try to visit the breeder’s home to see the conditions their dogs are living in; see if the breeders seem to have a genuine interest in the pups finding a good home and if they offer to be available for any questions, even after they have sold the pup to you.
• Be informed: The best way to stop the continuance of puppy mills is by arming yourself with information and sharing what you learn with as many people as you can by word of mouth and through social networks, blogs, comments on articles and posts, etc. Did you know that in addition to being cruel to the dams and sires, puppy mills are also cruel to the pups themselves? This is because the lack of proper husbandry practices that would remove ill dogs from breeding programs leads to puppies having a host of pre-existing, congenital and hereditary conditions you may remain unaware of until years later, when these diseases show up. If you have already purchased an animal from a pet shop, newspaper or the Internet, make sure to protect your pup and yourself with a good pet policy, since some of the diseases which often show up in these pups can be expensive to treat and require long-term care. These include epilepsy, heart disease, kidney disease, deafness, eye problems, respiratory and musculoskeletal disorders, etc.

Sadly, puppy mills cause problems that continue from generation to generation. If we all do our part - we can put a stop to them now, in our generation. Do you have a story or comment to share? Please leave us a message below! If you enjoyed this post, please make sure to "Like" us on Facebook too!

Jaq is a shy but very sweet one year old Pomeranian currently available for adoption. Found wandering in a rural area, a good samaritan brought him to the Humane Society of Central Washington knowing that they would help him find a home. Unfamiliar to his new surroundings, Jaq is a bit timid and unsure but perks up his ears and tail once he gets to know you.

Volunteers who’ve worked with Jaq say that he really just wants some quiet time right now. While very alert of his surroundings, Jaq just loves to snuggles into his Chill Pad. He will do best in a quiet home with a family that can give him lots of positive attention. To learn more about Jaq, including how to adopt him, visit his info page.

The Humane Society of Central Washington is an open-door animal care shelter, the only shelter serving Yakima County, the second largest county in Washington State (approx. 4,312 square miles). The HSCW takes in approximately 7,000 stray/unwanted companion animals (cats & dogs) each year. On average, HSCW houses approximately 140 cats/dogs per day, with approximately half of that number being adoptable on any given day. To learn more, visit their website and Facebook page. To learn more about our Warm Bellies Initiative, including how to nominate a shelter for an upcoming Voters' Choice Poll, visit www.PetPlay.com/Warm-Bellies.

1) Pick it up! As we all know, dog waste is gross! No one wants to step in it, let alone have it runoff into our water ways. To top it off, dog waste is filled with bacteria that can make humans and other animals sick. So even if no one sees it happening, pick it up! And make sure to use biodegradable bags to keep plastic out of our landfills.

2) Get rid of the plastic water bottles! Staying hydrated is important but get rid of those single-use plastic bottles. H204K9 makes awesome stainless steel water bottles just for dogs; no spilling or wasted h2o here - the cap is the cup! Starting at $9.99, these are a great and easy way to help reduce waste.

3) Get out and enjoy the great outdoors! Turn off the TV, lights and heater. Take your pup for a nice long walk and enjoy some fresh air. Not only will you be getting some exercise, you'll also be spending some fun quality time with your pup. Don't forget to bring along an eco-friendly dog toy! Double points for walking and not driving to your favorite parks and trails.

How are you celebrating Earth Day? Leave us a comment below! Also, make sure to enter our Earth Day Photo Contest for a chance to win an eco-friendly prize pack filled with awesome green goodies!

ENTER NOW!

Bocce's Bakery!

Like P.L.A.Y., Bocce's Bakery was created by a discerning pet owner looking for something better for her pup. After a visit to the vet, Bocce (an adorable five year old pup) and his owner Andrea learned that he was carrying a few extra pounds. Naturally, Andrea was concerned and started looking into what she was feeding him. The amount of preservatives, chemicals and unpronounceable ingredients shocked her! Determined to give her pup natural and healthy treats, Andrea created Bocce's Bakery.

With flavors like Beef Bourguignon, Truffle Mac and Cheese and Chicken Cordon Bleu, you'll be tempted to try them too! For our Earth Day Photo Contest one lucky winner will receive an assorted sampler box filled with all six flavors (valued at $55)! Yum!

Additionally, our prize pack includes goodies from P.L.A.Y., earthbath and Earth Rated for a total value of over $350! Only a few more days to enter - submit your photos for a chance to win!

ENTER NOW!

"Franklin and Kodiak go green by hiking not driving, drinking out of rivers and lakes instead of plastic water bottles, and cooling off in icy mountain lakes instead of using the air conditioner!"

We especially love that Franklin and Kodiak avoid drinking out of plastic water bottles! As we now know, plastic is not so fantastic. To help reduce the number of plastic bottles found in landfills, we use them to make  P.L.A.Y.'s super-soft Planetfill® filling. We love other pet product companies that share the same goal. We especially love Earth Rated, they help the planet in two ways; they keep plastic out of our landfills and keep dog waste (and all of the unfriendly bacteria that can make people and other animals sick) off of our lawns, fields, hiking trails... you get the idea.

Each year up to a trillion plastic bags are deposited into our landfills where, scientists estimate, they can take up to 1,000 years to breakdown, and millions still end up in waterways, trees, and in our oceans. But as pet owners, picking up our dog's waste is the responsible thing to do. That's where Earth Rated comes in. With both bio-degradable and compostable bags, you can feel good knowing that you're doing your part to protect the earth from plastic and waste.

For our Earth Day Photo Contest, one lucky winner will receive an eco-friendly prize pack comprised of a P.L.A.Y. pet bed, bathing and grooming products from earthbath, yummy treats from Bocce's Bakery and two Earth Rated dispensers along with over 350 bags (thats a lot of poo!) for a total value of over $350! Make sure to submit a photo of your pup for a chance to win!

ENTER NOW

For over 15 years, earthbath has been giving pets and their owners a better option when it comes to bathing and grooming. Based in our hometown of San Francisco, earthbath develops and manufactures their products using only the safest and finest ingredients from nature. From humble roots --based on the principles of purity and efficacy--earthbath has grown from four shampoos to a comprehensive line of totally natural shampoos, wipes, spritzes, and grooming foams.

When we found out our pup suffers from both seasonal and everday allergies, we began our hunt for hypo-allergenic products. Lucky for us, our local pet boutique carried a variety of earthbath's products! The Tea Tree and Aloe spritz really helps with her dry and itchy skin, and the hypoallergnic grooming wipes keep her fresh and clean between baths.

For the Photo Contest - our eco-friendly prize pack includes a bottle of shampoo, spritz and grooming wipes (valued at over $40) to keep your pet fresh, clean, and earth-friendly.

Submit a Photo Now!

"A very happy Snuffles on your bed..." - Deborah

Do you have a P.L.A.Y. product? Please tell us what you think! Leave a review on our website or share a photo on our Facebook page!

Wandering the streets of Oakland matted, dirty and entirely alone, Mickey was found by a kind-hearted woman who made the choice not to look the other way. Once it was determined that Mickey didn’t have anyone looking for him, Muttville stepped in to clean him up, nurse him back to full health, and help this little fella find a loving home he SO deserves.

Strictly speaking, Mickey is a “special needs senior” – he’s blind, and had one eye that was causing him severe pain removed -- but his foster mom says he doesn’t know he’s blind! In fact, it doesn’t take him long to acclimate to a new environment. Once he “maps out” the lay of the land in a home, he can navigate his way around just fine. Mickey doesn’t let ANY of these things slow him down! Far from it, this guy loves a good long walk (or two!)  every day and will curl up in your lap for a cuddle sesh afterwards.

Mickey is highly responsive to sound and smell, and he'd love to be your shadow, following you around wherever you go. He loves to be with his people and would do best in a home with someone who has lots of time to spend with him during the day. Mickey would do best without many obstacles (furniture moved frequently or toys on the floor, so he’d prefer a home without young kids). For more about Mickey including how to adopt him, visit Muttville's website.

Based in San Francisco, Muttville has helped save over 1700 senior pups since being founded in 2007. Every year, the number of pets rescued grows by leaps and bounds: in 2012 they averaged a dog rescued for every day - about 365 dogs a year. As Muttville continues to grow and expand they hope to increase that number and save more senior dogs. At any given time they have about 70 dogs available for adoption (either at headquarters or in foster homes), and have so far rescued 150 dogs in 2013 (that's 150 in the first 3 months!). For more information about Muttville, visit their website or Facebook page.

This Sunday, set aside some time for a special egg hunt with your pup. Stuff plastic eggs with his or her favorite dog treats, hide in the garden or house, and then let your dog loose! It's a great way to mentally stimulate your pup, not to mention it's just a ton of fun! Make sure to carefully monitor your dog during this game as some pups might break the plastic eggs when trying to open them.

Check out this adorable video of First Dog Bo hunting for eggs at the White House.

How do you plan to celebrate the holiday? Leave us a comment below! If you liked this post, please be sure to "like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Doesn't get much cuter than that, does it? If you liked this post (and the adorable photos of Momo) please be sure to "Like" our Facebook Page and follow us on Twitter!

*Due to travel limitations, this casting call is open to Bay Area families only. Thanks for your interest!

Because of the grant, Handsome Dan's rescue has been able to provide cozy pet beds for the foster dogs in their program, to help keep them comfy as they wait for their forever homes.  They've also been able to give a small number of the Chill Pads to shelter dogs who have had a longer-than-normal stay at local shelters. One of their recent rescues is currently waiting for her forever family. Meet Theresa.

Theresa, an owner surrender, is a smart and loving four year old American Pit Bull Terrier. While her past is unknown, it was clear that shelter life was too much for Theresa and she started to withdraw and shut down. That’s what Handsome Dan’s Rescue stepped in.

Knowing that there was more to this pretty girl, they placed her in a foster home giving her the opportunity to really relax and show her true personality. "If I had not seen her at the shelter myself I would have never believed this beautiful girl was anything but happy. That tail that was tucked before now wags non-stop. She has so much love to share!" (Stephanie, Foster Mom)

Despite being a little shy at first, Theresa is very affectionate; she wakes up in the morning ready to shower her foster family with kisses. A calm girl, Theresa loves other dogs and is currently living with a male lab.  He helps her overcome her fears when encountering new things, so a home with another dog would be great, but she isn’t picky - she just wants a family to love and snuggle.  She is well trained, very smart and eager to please. For more information, visit her Petfinder page.

About Handsome Dan's Rescue:

Heather Gutshall, CPDT-KA, and Mark Stoutzenberger had been rescuing, training, and placing homeless dogs for many years, and founded Handsome Dan’s Rescue to help dogs who are most often overlooked at local animal shelters. (Handsome Dan is one of the 22 dogs who came to Best Friends Animal Society after the Michael Vick arrest.) HDR advocates the rescue of pit bull type dogs previously considered “unadoptable” from local shelters, and their placement through a network of volunteer foster homes. Many dogs have been rescued from severe abuse and neglect, including dog fighting. Because the dogs in the program often require extra care, including medical, training and sometimes rehabilitation, HDR is small by design. To learn more about Handsome Dan's rescue, visit their website and Facebook Page.

Through our Warm Bellies Intiative with the Petfinder Foundation, we've been able to help give hundreds of less fortunate pets, warmer bellies. To learn more about the program, visit www.PetPlay.com/warm-bellies

Jasmine is a three-year-old Lab Mix. She arrived at Quincy Animal Shelter on January 31, 2013 as an owner surrender. Her surrendering owner had Jasmine for just a few months, prior to that she was being kept by a backyard breeder who bred her at least three times in her first three years of life. While she was at a normal weight when she got to us, she was said to be severely underweight when leaving the backyard breeder. Jasmine has a big bark to match her large 65-lb frame, but inside she has a soft marshmallow streak. A cat in her previous home had kittens, and Jasmine was a nurturing second mom to them, cleaning them as if they were her own.

Jasmine is very playful and has a signature "kangaroo hop" that she displays whenever she's taken to the outdoor pens for play time. "Jasmine bounces around the exercise pen like she is wearing springs!" according to Christina, a dog-walking volunteer.

The Quincy Animal Shelter is a volunteer-run organization. The Shelter relies completely on volunteers and the community for support. Since 1999 the Quincy Animal Shelter has placed more than 5,000 cats and dogs into loving and forever homes through out MA and New England.

• As a "no kill" shelter, they make every effort to find the right home for every animal in our care. This means they  exercise the same ethical and humane treatment of animals in the facility that you would for your own family feline or canine friend. Every animal receives age-appropriate vaccinations and, if old enough, is spayed or neutered before finding its forever family.
• The shelter is limited to a maximum of 12 dogs and 15 to 25 cats, depending on ages and condition of the cats. The Quincy Animal Shelter's dream is to eventually find a larger facility so that they can continue their mission on a larger scale and serve the continuous needs of the community and the animals. Please visit their Volunteer and Wish List pages to find out about ways you can help.

Visit the Quincy Animal Shelter's website and Facebook page for more information about how they are helping less fortunate animals. To learn more about P.L.A.Y.'s Warm Bellies Initiative with the Petfinder Foundation, visit www.PetPlay.com/warm-bellies.

Barking for treats or any other sort of attention can be a little annoying and rude to your guests/family members, I know :)

The best way to get rid of the behavior is to stop reinforcing it and redirecting that energy elsewhere. Chances are, if you were talking to someone and your dog barked to get attention, and in-turn you gave him a treat, your dog has now learned that barking will get him something yummy, and will likely do it again. I like Dr. Sophia Yin's approach of ignoring bad behavior and rewarding good behavior - and by ignoring, I mean ignore, ignore, ignore. No attention will be given as long as the dog is barking, jumping, or demanding your attention in a rude way. Don't look at him or say "no!", because that in itself is attention too. It will take patience and a willing friend or family member to practice with. Dogs often associate the kitchen with, what else? food! You can easily teach your dog to politely ask for attention or a treat with Dr. Yin's Sit to Say Please technique. When the dog barks for your attention, turn away and ignore; make it clear that you are ignoring and wait it out. The minute he is quiet or better yet, sits, THEN give him attention. Praise your dog to let him know know he did something right ("Yes, good puppy!"), or use treats as a reward. To see Dr. Yin's Sit to Say Please technique, click on here. Below is a great example.

Another thing you can try is get a toy (such as a Kong or a Busy Buddy to stuff with treats or peanut butter) and give it to your dog to chew on his bed; do this before he demands attention by barking and plan ahead to do it every time you have guests over or when you know you'll be having conversations in the kitchen (or wherever the bad behavior takes place). Redirecting that energy, keeping his mind busy and stimulated is likely to reduce the barking. 

Good luck!

Nat is the co-founder, photographer and designer/illustrator behind Photo Lab Pet Photography and Design Lab Creative Studio. Along with her husband/partner Bill, they are based in the San Francisco Bay Area, providing custom fine art photography of companion animals, and high-end graphic design and illustration to private, editorial and commercial clients. They are proud members and supporters of HeARTs Speak, photographing adoptable animals for shelters and rescues in need. Their work has been featured in Bark Magazine and they have collaborated with many notable companies in the pet industry.

Nat is a graduate of Trish King's Canine Behavior Academy and volunteers regularly at her local humane society's behavior and training department. A lover of all things analog, Nat's favorite tools include a Hasselblad camera and many, many rolls of color film. Nat and Bill live in Petaluma, CA with their two dogs Corbin and Willow and two cats, Leeloo and RT.

If you have a question for Nat, please post it onto our Facebook Page! Though we will always do our best to advise you on a particular challenge, we believe the best way to go is to find a great dog trainer or certified canine behaviorist in your area. Below are a few links to help you find someone near you.

Find a Trainer:

• Positively: Victoria Stillwell Licensed Trainer
• Association of Pet Dog Trainers

Find a Certified Canine Behaviorist:     

• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
• Animal Behavior Society
• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior

With a number of rescue pups in the P.L.A.Y. pack, we understand firsthand the obstacles many shelter pets face and we want to help in any way we can. In addition to our Warm Bellies Initiative with the Petfinder Foundation, we’re proud to partner with Nebo Agency (an award-winning digital marketing agency) for the Rescue Pledge.

By taking The Rescue Pledge, users agree to support adoption from rescue shelters, avoid unlicensed breeders, become educated about minimum standards of pet care, report abuse or neglect and give back to the community by donating to or volunteering at animal shelters.

The pledge is an easy and quick way for dog lovers around the world to show their support and dedication to changing negative misperceptions about shelter pets, and ultimately saving lives.

To take the pledge and learn more, visit www.RescuePledge.org.

Isis, an 11 year old spunky senior female, found herself at Hello Bully because her owner was battling cancer and wanted to be sure that she would have a safe place to go when the time came. She has just lost everything she's ever known, but just looking into her eyes, you fall in love. A sweet, old soul, Hello Bully quickly saw that Isis was going to be just fine.

Isis is an amazing dog who is completely house trained and knows all of her basic commands such as sit, lay down, and stay; not to mention she walks fantastic on leash! Other than snuggling up with her humans, playing with tennis balls may be her favorite activity! Isis doesn’t get along very well with other dogs, and this has been her biggest adversity to overcome. However, being in a part time foster house and participating in Hello Bully’s classes with other dogs, has helped her progress and she has come really far. Even so, Isis would be happiest as an only pet.

"Isis is a timeless beauty with big, brown soulful eyes. I love to watch as she sits quietly, looking out the window. I believe she is thinking about her own home. In my eyes she is the perfect dog and the absolute meaning of a best friend,” said her foster mom Gretchen Sturm.

A couple months ago, Hello Bully won our Warm Bellies Voters' Choice and received two sets of Chill Pads for their pets! "The Warm Bellies Chill Pad has helped our dogs tremendously. Having a nice warm pet bed to lay on is imperative for the well being of dogs in the rescue," said Adoptions Coordinator, Ashley Phelps. "Having that sense of comfort and relaxation allows them to feel more at home which creates them to be more adoptable. It also lets the adopters see them in their relaxation state, and a non-stressed comfy dog, is a happy dog. This makes the best for adoptions!"

Hello Bully's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and repair the reputation of the American Pit Bull Terrier. A non-profit 501c3 corporation, volunteers and fosters support the organization out of the kindness of their hearts, and their passion to help Pit Bulls. Hello Bully's Halfway House has the capability to hold and care for up to 5 dogs. Being a smaller rescue facility, an average adoption can take 6 months to a year, and as soon as one dog is adopted, they rescue another. In additional to adoptions and rescues, they also hold monthly events to educate the public on the amazing breed. For more information about Hello Bully and their adoptable pets, visit their website and Facebook page.

By Natalia Martinez

To say I have always had a deep love and appreciation for animals is an understatement. I apparently learned to walk by holding on to the family dog! Maybe it's because I am an introvert, but I always found a kinship with animals, dogs in particular, and found it easy to lose myself in that quiet world of wordless conversations.

As a kid, I dreamed of becoming a photographer for National Geographic Magazine, and animals were my constant subjects, from coloring books to endless rolls of film.

A favorite photographer/teacher/ friend of ours Chris Orwig always said: "You as a photographer, have to photograph what you care about, it will automatically make your work better and you'll get me as a viewer, to care about it too." I loved these words, but I never really understood their value until we started photographing companion animals. Quite simply and personally, we always found joy in photographing our Labrador Retriever, Corbin; but when he got cancer, those images took on a whole different value. Corbin has beaten cancer twice, and his ever-happy and positive demeanor has taught us to never waste a frame, so to speak. After that, something shifted, and all of a sudden, I had found my calling; combining my two passions: art + animals. 

And so Photo Lab Pet Photography was born, and a couple of years later Design Lab Creative Studio; both in honor of the Black Lab that started it all.

My interest and work in canine behavior was born from that as well, almost by accident. I believe that in order to better photograph my subject, I need to understand it perfectly. So I enrolled in Trish King's Canine Behavior Academy (now known as Courses in Canine Behavior) and from the first class, I was hooked. I believe understanding and appreciating canine behavior has not only made me a better animal photographer, capable of connecting with our subjects and getting them comfortable with us and our equipment and providing a more enjoyable experience to our clients; but it has also made me a better person, learning so much about myself in the process, and finding clues to why I feel such a strong kinship with dogs and cats.

Since graduating from the Canine Behavior Academy in the Fall of 2011, I have joined the Sonoma Humane Society's Behavior and Training Department as a volunteer doing behavior evaluations for shelter dogs and assisting in behavior problem consults and training classes. I am currently working my way up to providing training classes in Spanish as part of the SHS team. We regularly photograph shelter animals as members of HeARTs Speak; have written a blog series on understanding dog behavior and have since found that I have a particular soft side and affinity for fearful dogs; having recently adopted a fearful pup named Willow, whom we had fostered and worked with for almost four months. Her progress has been nothing short of fascinating to me.

Today we are lucky to share our home with four wonderful creatures, our constant muse and inspiration in the shape of Corbin, an 8 year old black Labrador; Leeloo and RT, two very different and incredibly funny cats; and our newest pack member Willow, a bright and beautiful one-year-old German Shepherd/Australian Kelpie mix, the fearful dog that taught us how to be brave.

In short, I am a dog nerd, and proud of it. I read and watch anything I can get my hands on regarding dogs, cats, animal behavior, training and cognition; and yet I believe that we never stop learning; dogs are too complicated and fascinating a subject to presume we know everything there is to know about them, or their relationship with us. It is also my humble belief that the more we know and understand about the dogs (and cats) we share our life with, the stronger our bonds to them will be and this will make for happier dogs, and happier humans too.

I will do my best to provide advice on whatever challenge you may be facing with your dog, but I will also refer you to many other helpful resources and will always recommend you find a great dog trainer or certified behaviorist that can help you address your concerns face to face and create a solution custom to you and your dog's needs.

Below are a few links to help you find someone near you.

 Find a Trainer:

• http://positively.com/dog-training/trainersearch/
•  http://www.apdt.com/petowners/ts/

 Find a Certified Canine Behaviorist:

• http://iaabc.org
• http://www.animalbehavior.org/ABSAppliedBehavior/caab-directory
• http://avsabonline.org/resources/find-consult

Presidential dogs date all the way back to George Washington, one of America's founding fathers and first President. An avid hunter and dog lover, President Washington bred and maintained many dogs in his lifetime.  His journals listed over 30 dogs, for which he had a knack of cleverly naming. Our personal faves? Drunkard and Sweet Lips.

From Abraham Lincoln to George Bush Sr. and Jr., Ronald Reagan to Herbert Hoover; many four-legged animals have had the priviledge of being part of the First Family.

Today, Bo Obama, is huge a celebrity. Gracing the White House's Christmas Card for two years in a row now, Bo is an integral part of the First Family. No matter political affiliation, Bo has won the hearts of the American public! He has an avid following with many websites and social media pages dedicated to him. Bo is often even the subect of many news articles!

If that weren't awesome enough, the sculpture is rigged up to spray yellow paint on the side of the building!

Chinese astrology includes 12 primary signs in the form of animals that rotate every year - 2013 is the Year of the Snake.  While snakes are often reviled and many are worried of what is to come in 2013, it is predicted that the snake will bring many opportunities for steady economic growth.

For Momo, Chinese New Year is her favorite holiday, especially since her ancestry was highly coveted by Emperors of China. Pugs often lived in the most luxurious atmospheres and at times were even guarded by soldiers! Often called, Lo-sze or “Foo Dog”, breeders would look for wrinkles or markings that resembled Chinese characters. Here’s a little more background from Pug-World.com about our loveable pugs.

It is well established that the breed appeared first in China and were literally a “lap-Dog”. The Pug or (Lo-Chiang as they were called in china at that time) where highly prized by Chinese nobility. It has been said that the breed dates back as far as 1600BC, although many say the figure to be 700BC. Either way pugs have history.

Pugs were owned by royalty in China and were often given to royal courtiers as highly treasured gifts.

The Pug still carries its royal breeding and heritage with it to this day in the way that they hold themselves.

The history of the pug in china can also be seen in today’s Chinese symbols and ornamentation. The pug is often referred to as “The Lion Dog” and the resemblance of the pug can still be seen in the decretive Chinese dragons and lions used in festivals.

No wonder Momo loves the holiday! From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we wish you a very happy and prosperous Year of the Snake!

Smiley is a blind 8 year old neutered male pit bull. When his elderly owner could no longer care for him, Smiley found himself without a home at the Animal Protection Center of Southeast Massachusetts. Shortly after arriving at the shelter, they discovered that he was positive for heartworm. While he has had some challenges, he doesn't let anything stop him from loving life! Everyone that meets Smiley is amazed by his loving nature.

"Smiley has such a happy personality, his name truly fits him! He’s such a cuddle-bug," says APCSM shelter manager Kim Heise.

Despite being blind, Smiley gets around very well and learns his surroundings quickly. Since his successful heartworm treatment and recovery, he's been doing well and is ready for adoption. To learn more about Smiley, click here.

About the Animal Protection Center of Souteast Massachusetts

The Animal Protection Center has been serving the pets and people of Southeast Massachusetts since the fall of 2009 when they took over operations of a shelter being closed by a large humane organization in the area. A small organization, they receive no federal or local funding and rely solely on the donations and support received from from individuals who believe in the work they are doing. Since opening in October 2009, they have found homes for nearly 4,000 dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals. On an average day, they are typically caring for around 80 cats, 15 dogs, 10 rabbits and other various small animals awaiting adoption. Visit their Facebook page or Petfinder page for more information and to view their current adoptable pets.

Thanks to the Warm Bellies Initiative, the Animal Protection Center has been able to keep their dogs comfortable while they are waiting for adoption. When the dogs have a cozy spot to relax, it allows their true personalities to shine through to potential adopters. Instead of seeing a dog stressed in a kennel, folks can see them for what they actually are - loving pets who happen to be in need of a home. To learn more about the Warm Bellies Initiative, visit www.PetPlay.com/warm-bellies.

To continue our mission to help less fortunate animals, we'll be regularly highlighting past Warm Bellies recipients and some of their adoptable pets on our blog. If you're a past recipient and would like to be included, please email us at GivingBack@Petplay.com. To learn more about our Warm Bellies Initiative, visit www.petplay.com/warm-bellies.

One of the main reasons we love the Puppy Bowl so much is because Animal Planet puts a large focus on animal rescue and adoption. All 63 participating pups were selected from shelters and rescues in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Marjorie Kaplan, president and general manager of Animal Planet Media, said, "There are so many cute little dogs that need to be adopted, and it's been the focus of Puppy Bowl from the beginning. By the time Puppy Bowl airs, the puppies who starred in the show have already been adopted."

In addition to the puppy madness, we looking forward to the Kitten Halftime Show and the newly added hedgehog cheeleaders! Can't wait for all the cuteness to begin? Check out the pups practicing and training for the big day on Animal Planet's Live Puppy Cam!

Free desktop streaming application by Ustream

Drum roll please! The winners of a brand new P.L.A.Y. pet bed are...

Bela and Bruschi!

Maria A. of Massachusetts' said, "These are Bela (dog) and Bruschi (cat); they have been sharing a bed since they met (2009). We recently moved and had to throw the bed away; couldn't make it any longer. This bro and sis need a new bed to share :)."

Please help us congratulate Maria, Bela and Bruschi!

Again, THANK YOU to everyone who entered our contest. We loved seeing all of your photos! Please keep checking back on our website and Facebook page for more opportunities to win!

Dogs live much shorter lives then us, and they spend their lives trying to do what makes them happy. (Eat, sleep, cuddle, play, repeat.) While training, it is SO easy to get frustrated but just remember one of our previous tips - patience. Soon enough the years will go by and you'll be thinking back fondly on all those times that you were so upset. (It's true! Our pup chewed through a countless number of pillows and rugs, and now we just smile when we think back to how much of a brat she was!).

Just like people, dogs go through growing pains. The exploration years, teenage rebellion, mid-life crises (maybe not so much), and growing old. Really take the time to treasure every moment you have with your four-legged family member.

Many pet owners make the common mistake of giving their pup access to too much space, too soon. This can lead to accidents (that you might find much later in an infrequently used room... eeew) and other unwanted behaviors (chewing furniture, etc.). When you're home, start by keeping your pup leashed to you so that you can pay attention to his actions (if he needs to go potty, he starts chewing something, etc.). If you aren't able to keep a close eye on him, shut the doors to unused rooms and put up some gates to section off safe areas of your house (you can also put him a kennel if you want to crate train). Make sure that he has access to water, a place to sleep (like a soft pet bed), and some dog toys or treats to keep him occupied. Gradually reward him with access to new parts of the house once he's earned it.

Every day for the past three years Lilica, an amazingly loyal and sweet dog, travels four miles round trip to get food to feed her family. Lilica lives in a junkyard in Brazil with another dog, cat, some chickens and a mule, along with Neile Vania Antonio, the woman who took Lilica in as a homeless puppy.

Lilica with Lucia (left) and Neile (right)

Every night at 9:30 p.m. Lilica ventures to the home of Professor Lucia Helena de Souza, a woman who also takes care of dozens of other stray dogs and cats. Lucia prepares food for Lilica and her family and puts it in a bag; after eating a little bit, Lilica carries the rest home to the junkyard so that her family members have some food to eat too.

"I realized that she ate and then stared at what was in the bag," said Lucia. After considering that perhaps Lilica wanted to take the rest with her, they "tied it up and took the bag and gave it to Lilica."

"People don't do that," said Lucia. "Some people hide and do not want to share what they have with others. She did not, Lilica is an exceptional animal."

 Dogs just amaze us. 

Changing a habit (like barking or digging) can take awhile, especially if your pup has been allowed to do it for years! But remember, with patience and consistency, it's never too late to learn new tricks!

If your pup is clearly uncomfortable meeting a new dog or person, don't push it. Cowering and low growling are signs that your dog is not comfortable - so pay attention! In these situations, we don't recommend forcing the situation, respect that your pup doesn't feel right about it and move on. It'll help avoid unwanted problems down the line.

For more information on how to read a dog's body language, check out this great post from Natalia Martinez.

"Isn't that what fur is for?"

Well just like people, dogs are built differently! Some pups are better suited for warm weathers (think Chihuahuas) and others have lighter coats of fur.  Consider this, a dog's belly is practically furless - imagine how uncomfortable you'd be in cold weather without any layers!

Still unsure if your pup needs a coat? Most small breed (chihuahuas, yorkies, etc.) and leaner built dogs (greyhounds) will almost definitely need some kind of insulation if subject to colder temperatures. Dogs with short hair or thin coats will probably thank you for the extra warmth a sweater will bring. Also, if your dog refuses to go outside to relieve herself in inclimate weather, try a coat.

On the other side of the coin, some breeds (like Huskies and Saint Bernards) are genetically predisposed to live in colder weather, so an extra coat or sweater could be really uncomfortable and is not advised.

Picking the right sweater

Nowadays, there are a countless number of sweaters you could buy for your dog. If your pup isn't comfortable with a coat or sweater yet, we recommend ones that are sleeveless and just wrap around the neck and belly. Make sure to pick a coat that ends at the base of the tail and is easy for your pup to move around in (walk, run, play, go to the bathroom, etc.). We're particularly fond of Ruffwear's K9 Overcoat, it's lightweight, durable, and super easy to put on and take off.

Does your dog enjoy wearing sweaters? Share your photos on our Facebook page, we just might feature it in an upcoming post!

Just because your dog knows how to sit and stay, that doesn't mean that he shouldn't be reminded! If you slack off on your consistency, you can bet your dog will slack off on listening.

Socialization isn't just for puppies. Continue introducing him to new people, places and things! Many owners will thoroughly socialize a puppy, then wonder why the same dog (now years old) doesn't like new people! It's important to teach your dog to associate new people and things with nice experiences - say a tasty treat or playtime with a favorite plush dog toy. Socialization is crucial to building (and keeping) confidence in your dog.

Teach your dog a new trick! Never underestimate his abilities! As an adult, we taught our pup to "army crawl" - one of my favorites if I do say so myself. Just like any other age; consistency, patience and praise are all essential to learning a new command.

When adopting or even interacting with a new pet, never judge a book by its cover. Unfortunately, negative stereotypes and perceptions have given many wonderful, loving dogs a bad rap. It's a sad fact but because of this, many animals including Pit Bulls and black dogs (and cats) are labeled "less-adoptable" and often have a hard time finding forever homes. If you're thinking about bringing home a new dog, educate yourself! Make sure you do your homework and read up about different breeds to ensure that  you're adopting a dog that will be good fit for your home and lifestyle.

Like Dr. King, it's our dream that one day people and animals will not be judged by the color of their skin (or nationality, race, breed, gender, etc.) but by the content of their character.

How often do you glance down at your pet and think I must capture this cuteness? You run and grab your camera with the highest of hopes only to be let down by mediocre results and the task was frustrating.  You’ve chased them, pleaded for concentration, blurred the photos and let’s not forget about you producing the glowing eyes effect. Does this sound familiar?

 Here are some quick steps to help you to take better photos of your pet.   

1. Patience!   The first 10 minutes or so are always a little challenging.  Your pet has no idea what you’re doing.  Staying calm allows them to feel more comfortable.   After they are calm you will find it much easier to focus and your pet will find it much easier to embrace you and your camera. 
2. Rewards!  Always have rewards with you.  A favorite toy or treat can make a big difference.   The toy I hold in my hand is a diamond in disguise.  A joyful cylinder that rolls when chased or squeaks when chewed is a dog’s best friend!  A feathery toy that moves along the floor just waiting to be pounced on. The bacon flavored treat that makes any dog drool and cats purr captures their undivided attention like nothing else! 
3. Flash! Or should I say No Flash!  That’s right no flash allowed.  I can’t stress this enough.   Moving outdoors or into a well lit room will make the difference between a big blur or a sharp photo.    Eyes are the windows to the soul.  When you leave your flash off you can see the eyes are no longer hidden by bright glowing circles or haze.
4. Sit!  Yes I meant you sit down.  Getting low is so important.  Not sure how low to get?  Not to worry.  Stay eye level.  Get face to face with your subject.  Sitting, Kneeling, or lying on the floor is a good start.  You might be surprised at what you see at their level!
5. Fun!   Have fun with it.  Take your time and enjoy your pet.  I know they will enjoy you spending time with them.

About Victoria

I have been photographing pets professionally for years. So I’d like to think I have the hang of it by now!  If you ask any of my professional colleagues they will say photographing a pet can be quite the challenge even for them. However I am told I have the ability to break down the process for inspiring novice. I have picked up quite a few tricks along the way and I would be happy share more with you. So if you have questions, want to see my work, photo outtakes, tips and more please visit my Blog at www.tuffphoto.com and/or become a fan on Facebook!

Always remember the secret to good pet photography is to make sure . . . pst . . . personality shines through!

Also, know what symptoms to look for. You know your pup best, so if he's acting strange keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Pale gums
• Rapid breathing
• Weak or rapid pulse
• Change in body temperature
• Difficulty standing
• Apparent paralysis
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Excessive bleeding

Every dog owner should know how to perform CPR; as we said, better safe than sorry.

Some people actually believe that you need to scare a dog out of bad behaviors (ever heard of the "rub your dog's face in his waste if he has an accident in the house?"), but in reality, all that does is make your dog scared of you. If you don't catch your dog in the act, there's absolutely no point for punishment as an afterthought. Your dog will correlate the punishment to something he's doing at that time, instead of what you're actually upset about.

Now we're not saying you shouldn't correct your dog if he's behaving badly. Example: If you catch him using your carpet as a restroom, correct him with a firm "No,"  distract him (clapping, whistling, anything to get his attention), get him outside to finish his business, and then praise him. Voila! What could've been a horrible experience for both of you, ended positively. Now if you find a "present" from your pup on your carpet much after the fact - consider it an accident on both your parts and move on.

Having access to a large yard isn't enough - dogs left to themselves can get bored very quickly and can even become really depressed. Remember, dogs are pack animals they want and need  interaction with you and others! Some simple ways to keep your pup happy and healthy are:

Physical exercise

• Go for a walk
• Visit the dog park (as long as your pup is friendly with others)
• Play a game of tug
• Play fetch

Momo loves to visit the dog park and roll around with the "big guys."

Mental exercise

• Teach new tricks or commands
• Play "Hide and Seek" (hide yummy treats around the house/yard and tell him to find them!)
• Intelligence Toys
• Agility practice (this is great for physical and mental stimulation!)

The P.L.A.Y. Tunnel is great for exercise and mental stimulation!

Those are just a few of our favorite exercises, what do your dogs love?

Dogs usually first respond to your tone. Even if he has a solid understanding of commands and corrections, see how your pup responds if you say "No" in a loving and exhuberant way. On the other side of the coin, see how he responds when you praise him in a lower and firm voice. Matching your tone to commands, corrections, and praise will help your dog avoid confusion.

"Grrr... what are you trying to say here?"

• Commands should be given in a firm and assertive (and often lower) tone. Many people have troubles with this because they tend to ask their dog versus command their dog. Remember, it's important to be keep your commands short and simple. Don't drag out your words. For example, don't ask your dog to "ssiiiiit?" simply tell him "Sit."
• Corrections should be more stern - usually a deeper tone. (Similar to commands, don't drag your words out.)
• Praise should be given to your dog in a warm and friendly manner. Depending on what your dog did, sometimes it's even exhuberant and excited.

However, there's a very simple way to teach him that jumping is an unwanted behavior that will not result in attention: ignore him! When you get home don't pay your pup any attention (don't look at him, call his name, etc.). If he jumps on you, fold your arms and look up at the ceiling or just turn around around; as soon as he's calmed down for a few seconds and has all four paws on the floor, reward and greet him!  By doing this he's learning that jumping won't give him what he wants. Make sure to be consistent and repeat the process as many times as necessary - it can be frustrating at first but remember, patience is key.

Example: Your puppy is scared to go down the stairs. Instead of coddling and picking her up. Encourage her, and then praise when she makes that first step. That will give her the confidence to know it's okay!

For more information, here's a great article from Dr Marty Becker at Vetstreet about how to safely and properly socialize your dog.

Example: Don't use long sentences like, "Momo, I would very much like for you to leave your dog toy  and come here right now." Your pup will probably just look at you like you're crazy.

Instead, use simple commands when training. Common examples are:

• Sit
• Stay
• Come
• Down (or Lay Down)
• Drop it
• Leave it
• Off

Make sure everyone in your household knows and uses the same commands - to help avoid confusion, it's important for everyone to be consistent.

Praising a job well done is an essential part to teaching your dog new commands (it was our Tip #2!), but it's important to know the right time to praise when you're training.You should reward your dog immediately after she does what you want her to do. We're talking within seconds. If you wait t0o long, she could think she's getting praised for something else.

Example: Say you want to reward your dog for laying down on her pet bed, so you give her a treat after she's stood up. She could mistakenly associate the reward for standing up. To avoid confusion, make sure to reward and praise your pup right when she completed the command.

Example: You tell your pup to sit,

"Fluffy, sit."

If Fluffy doesn't sit, don't repeat the phrase over and over and hope that she eventually understands. (Not only is it frustrating, your pup will probably be totally confused and look at you like your crazy). Instead, use your command,

"Fluffy, sit."

And if she doesn't, help her by gently pushing her butt to the floor. Then be sure to praise and reward,

"Good sit, Fluffy!"

Finally, repeat the whole process. Soon enough, Fluffy will be sitting on command!

What command did you teach your dog that required the most patience and repetition?

Find what motivates your pup and use it as a reward! Some dogs love food (Momo to a 'T'), some prefer affection, and others prefer playtime. Whether a yummy treat, belly rub, or plush dog toy, make sure to reward and praise your pup for a job well done.

This pup loves affection and playtime with our ECO P.L.A.Y. bone!

What's the best training advice you've received? Share with us below!

• Get healthier. The number one resolution people make year over year is to lose weight. Just like humans, obesity in dogs is a huge health risk. Between 25-40% of the canine population is considered obese or overweight; one study even found the number to be closer to 83%! This year we're going to extend the resolution to our pets by taking longer daily walks and feeding healthier foods. 

• Work hard, but play more. Studies have shown that Americans work more hours than our counter parts around the world. Less vacation time and longer work days can make it easy for us to take playtime for granted. This extends to our pets as well - it's shown that our pets can help reduce stress as well as improve our quality of life. Try to make it a priority to get in some quality fetching, tugging or just cuddling in with your pup. 

• Give back. Through our Warm Bellies Initiative we've been able to help give hundreds of less fortunate pets warmer bellies, but we'd like to do more. There are millions of dogs around the country that are sad, lonely and without a home. Spend some time volunteering at your local shelter or rescue group. The time you spend walking and playing with a homeless pet is invaluable to them and will be so rewarding for you.

These are just a few of our resoltions for 2013, what about you? Leave us a comment below!

Loud noises and fireworks can frighten a lot of dogs – we’ve all heard the story about the dog that dug under the fence, jumped out the window, or chewed through the wall because he was scared. To make sure your dog isn’t one of them, here are a few tips.

• Don’t take your dog with you to any firework festivities. All of us want to include our four-legged family members, but the loud squealing and bangs often trigger flight instinct in dogs.
• Make sure your pup is tagged. If you don’t have her microchipped – make that one of your New Year's Resolutions! In the meantime, keep her collar on with your current information on the tag. We're big fans of PetHub's QR Tags; reasonably price and super-user friendly, PetHub makes it easy to keep your pets safe.
• Get your dog tired before the festivities. Go for a long walk or have an extended play session. By getting your pup "dog-tired" there's a good chance he'll be snoring by the time you ring in the new year.

• Keep your pup in a quiet area. Turn the TV or radio on to distract from any outside noise and keep a water bowl accessible.
• Get your pup a Thundershirt. They help with a wide variety of symptoms like shaking, panting, barking, whining, “accidents”, clawing, digging and many others! Easy to use and drug-free, Thundershirts have an 85% success rating AND a money back guarantee – it’s definitely worth a shot.
• Never leave your pup unattended outside – remember the story about the dog that dug his way out of the yard? You DON'T want this to happen to you.
• If your dog has SUPER anxiety, talk to your vet. Sometimes, depending on the severity, they can prescribe sedatives to help.

Remember, New Year's is supposed to be FUN - starting out the 2013 with a missing or anxious pet is anything but.

From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we wish you and your loved ones a very happy new year!

Cheers,

The P.L.A.Y. Team

Making Sure Your Pets Have a Happy Holiday

Christmas is only a few days away, and between parties, family, traveling, decorations, sweets and gifts Christmas can be as stressful as it is special. To your pet, this time can be full of new sights and smells, confusion and new ways to get into trouble.

As you make your holiday plans this year, take a look from your four-legged family member's point of view. Keeping life safe and stress free for your pets during the holidays is simply applying the same common sense that you practice the rest of the year.

Decorations

Take a look at all that you just bought or unboxed for another year: Christmas tree, ornaments, maybe candles, but definitely lots of wires and, unfortunately, the hazards they all may cause your pet.

• That tree is plenty big and drying out every day, losing pine needles everywhere: Secure the base and the top of the tree to keep it from getting knocked over. Pine needles can be a digestion hazard if eaten, so take steps to keep the tree from drying out: make a straight cut to the trunk before placing it in water, keep it watered and use cooler LED lights.

• Consider the ornaments: Remove the breakable and edible ones like fine glass or popcorn strands.

• About tinsel: If you have pets, think twice about buying tinsel. For example, if you see a cat with partially swallowed tinsel, don't tug on it. The tightening of that string in your cat could knot in your cat's digestion system and cause peritonitis, an inflammation of the thin tissue lining the intestinal wall. Instead take your cat to the vet.

• Wires, wires, everywhere, and not a toy to chew: With all those lights and other decorations, have you made sure you secured all the extra wires and power cords from your pets, so they don't chew on one and electrocute themselves?

Holiday Sweets

Chocolate, rich food, fatty food and holiday plants can be poisonous to your dog or cat, causing illness or even death. Coffee, alcohol and nicotine are also dangerous.

Keep food and drinks with these ingredients away from your pets, prevent easy access and put them in a sealable container instead of out on a tray. Also, clean up messes soon after that big party, before your pet has a chance to root through it.

Alleviating stress

In addition to your pet's physical health, consider his mental health, and take measures to alleviate extra stress that comes from a change to the routine.

Give your pet a quiet place to hide out like a back bedroom with his familiar pet bed, toy and food and water.

If you are going to have unfamiliar people and especially kids around your pet, take the time to talk about bite prevention with them and ensure that time together is supervised. You know if your pet doesn't like to be bothered while eating or if he doesn't want to be picked up, so be sure to share that knowledge.

Traveling and Guests

If you are taking the whole family, including Spike, to visit relatives or having relatives as extended guests, they may not be aware of common pet-proofing precautions. If you are a guest, look out for harmful chemicals like that antifreeze on the garage floor your pet can get into. If you have a guest, remind them to keep any medication away when not in use.

These are all examples of ways to avoid pitfalls that could occur if you don't take a minute to consider how holiday festivities may affect your pet. Before the big event make a list of how your pet will be affected and how you can help them, and every species of your family will be better prepared to enjoy the holidays.

At www.safetyservicescompany.com, Jay Acker's editorial group makes materials for conducting weekly safety meetings, safety training programs, posters and other items.

From their website, “At Chewy.com, we are pet parents too and are dedicated to delivering pet happiness. In fact, Chewy.com was founded by people who have a passion for helping pets and wanted a way to make the lives of pets and pet parents a little bit better!” With over 120 brands of pet foods (including Momo's favorites - Stella and Chewy, Natural Balance, Orijen and Wellness) and more products being added regularly (ours now too!), it’s a great one stop shop. Shipping is super fast and free for any order over $49! The best part? They offer a subscription service; what an easy way to make sure that you never run out of Fido’s food!

We were given a gift certificate to try out their website – but we already know we love them, so we’re passing on the gift certificate to one of our readers!  If you still need to get some treats and goodies for your stockings, this giveaway is for you!
We'll randomly pick a winner on Tuesday, that way you still have some time for holiday shopping. Enter now!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The official White House holiday cards were just sent out and like last year, First Dog Bo is featured on the cover. Michelle Obama has said in the past, “He is my son. He is a very sweet dog.” We love how he is such an integral part of their family! Not only does he grace the front of the card, his name and paw print appear alongside the rest of the First Family’s signatures too!

Bo has been extremely busy this holiday season. The White House released this adorable video of him inspecting all of the holiday decorations before the official unveiling (which he also helped with). Look at those fluffy paws!

In addition to his First Dog duties, Bo is also the inspiration for many of the decorations! A life size replica of him is the centerpiece of the East Garden Room. To top it off, there’s also more than 40 handmade “Bo-flakes” ornaments hang from the trees throughout the White House!

While not on such a grand scale, Momo is also a big part of our holiday decorations at home. She adorns our Christmas greetings and we have special pug ornaments just for her.

Do you have holiday decorations in honor of your pets?

According to researcher John Bradshaw (from the University of Bristol's Veterinary School), “...dogs perceive toys in the same way that wolves perceive prey, they prefer toys that either taste like food or can be torn apart, however the latter can cause health problems if the dog accidentally swallows some of the pieces.”Adding to that, Co-author Anne Pullen said that the toys should be "soft, easily manipulable toys that can be chewed easily and/or make a noise."

While dogs always showed interest when presented with a brand new dog toy, they quickly became bored if the toy had hard surfaces or didn’t make any noises.  Even with soft and squeaky ones, dogs eventually got over the novelty.

The solution? Play with your pup! "For an animal as social as a dog," Bradshaw explained, "toys only become really exciting when they are part of a game with a person. Few toys will sustain a dog's interest for long if the owner is not around to offer encouragement." He added, "If a dog has to be left on its own, it is most likely to enjoy toys that can be chewed, make a noise when played with, or are designed to be eaten as they disintegrate (such as a chew)."

At P.L.A.Y. all of our toys feature super soft materials and a squeaker inside for hours of fun. Check out our whole line here!

To read the full article, visit Discovery News.

Dog House Wall Decal. Mark your dog’s territory in your house with this awesome wall decal from GraphicSpaces on Etsy. Choose your own color and customize with your pup’s name. A stylish and super-cute way to update your pup’s place.  Available in two sizes, starting at $30.

Big Face Tee from The Mountain.  Nothing proclaims your love for dogs like having a huge face of one on your shirt!  With dozens of different animals and breeds, there’s a shirt for every animal-lover you know. This gift will definitely make them laugh. Adult shirts starting at $20.

In Dogs We Trust Bone Necklace. This stylish necklace from Dogeared comes with a card that says, “there is so much we can learn from our four legged friends! they can teach us all about unconditional love and loyalty. wear your necklace as a reminder of the special bond you have with your best friend.”  The lady in your life is sure to love this, almost as much as she loves her pup. Available in silver and gold dipped, starting at $48.

Squishable Corgi. This giant round and fuzzy stuffed Corgi is just too cute for words. Seriously, how could you not want one of these?!  If you’re not Corgi fan, (really? Is that even possible?) there are tons of other ridiculously adorable designs available. Bonus: if you purchase a Mini Penguin Chick during the holidays, Squishable will donate a similar Squishable to a child in need. Minis start at $19, while the regular sizes start at $38.

Share the love. What’s one thing a dog-lover, loves more than her dog? Telling the whole world just how much she loves  her dog! Our Greeting Cards and Gift Tags are adorned with quirky phrases and fun designs that are sure to make any recipient smile. Momo, P.L.A.Y.’s CPO (Chief Pug Officer), is even featured on four of the designs. Individual cards start at $3.95.

What's on your wish list this year? Leave us a comment below!

I have always been an animal lover, and I mean always. There was never a time when we didn’t have pets. So it just seemed incomplete when I moved into my first apartment my sophomore year of college alone, with no pets. Right away I decided to go to the local animal shelter to adopt a dog. I wasn’t really looking for anything in particular, so I started walking though the section with the adult dogs. I took several outside to play and see if we hit it off, but I didn’t really feel a connection with any dogs that day. So I decided to go home and come back the following week to look again. As I was leaving, however, I walked by a kennel and heard a faint “sigh”.

I looked over and there was this little white dog sitting at the front of her cage. Her tail starting wagging, but she still looked so sad. As soon as I took her outside she couldn’t stop licking my face and pulling me towards the parking lot, as if she was saying “Ok, let’s go home now!” Immediately I knew she was the one. So a week later I got to take Bunny home. At the time I wasn’t sure what kind of dog she was, or how old, but I was told she was found chained up, used for breeding, and abandoned by her owner. All of that was in the past now, and it was clear we were meant to be together. She was so sweet and happy all the time, and quickly adjusted to her new home (and my couch).

Once I learned that she was an American Pit Bull Terrier, I quickly became a fan of the breed. She is a great ambassador for the breed, and anyone who meets her quickly changes any negative perceptions about pit bulls. Throughout the past 8 years, she’s been my running partner, my roommate, my traveling companion, and my best friend. I have always been inspired by how she is so able to forgive, to trust, and to love so naturally. She has helped me become the person I am today, and has even helped me start my own business.

When she started having health issues that were related to food allergies, I began to research what I could do to help. I learned so much about pet food on the market today, that I decided to help others do the same. I now own a pet boutique called The Spotted Dog, and of course it is named after Bunny!  Through my business I am able to help other pet owners, local shelters and rescues, and promote adoption. I bring Bunny to work with me every day and she does a great job greeting customers as our store’s mascot. People even stop by just to see Bunny!  Adopting her has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, and she will always be my best friend, my baby, and my inspiration.

P.L.A.Y. is proud to take part in Small Business Saturday, and we’re encouraging everyone to Shop Small® here on November 24th. Plus, we’re having a special Small Business Saturday offer! Visit our website between Black Friday (11/23) and Cyber Monday (11/25) for a special promo!  Most importantly, get out there, Shop Small, and let’s make this November 24th the biggest day of the year for small business. To learn more, visit ShopSmall.com.

• Portion control. Just because you're going back for seconds (okay, be honest here - thirds) doesn't mean fido should get to gorge too! Giving into those begging eyes is a guaranteed upset stomach. Treat your pup, but be modest.
• Lay off the skin. Turkey skin and other fatty foods can be especially harmful for your pup. Diarrhea, upset stomach, vomitting and sometimes even cause pancreatitis (a life threatening condition that causes inflammation and swelling in a dog's pancreas) are all symptons and sicknesses we want to prevent. Stick to turkey meat and unseasoned sides.
• Don't give your dog a bone. Like chicken, turkey bones can be especially dangerous for fido. Cooked bones can splinter and cause havoc to your pups digestive system. No ifs, ands, or buts here - avoid all bones.

Just cause your pup doesn't get to chew on bones or eat fatty foods to his hearts desire, doesn't mean you can't indulge and treat him. Here are some items that your pup can eat and will love.

• Turkey meat. Like we noted above, don't give your pup any skin - but turkey meat is fair game.
• Potatoes, yams and veggies - oh my! Our favorite side dishes can be served up as a special treat for your pup too! Broccoli, carrots, corn, green beans and peas are all healthy foods your dog can enjoy. Put some aside for your pup before you add all the seasonings, butter and sugar.
• Pumpkin pie. Pumpkin is actually really good for your dog. Pureed canned pumpkin (not the pumpkin pie filling) or cooked pumpkin will help with his digestive system - and make a healthy sweet treat.

If you know your pup has a sensitive stomach - that doesn't mean you can't still treat her! A special toy will make the holiday just as festive. Our Garden Fresh plush veggie toys are perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving.

How will you be celebrating this year? Leave us a comment below!

Do you know of a rescue or shelter that could use some cozy pet beds for their animals waiting adoption? Please nominate them for our Warm Bellies Voters' Choice Poll! We're accepting submissions through the end of the month. The top 3-5 with the most nominations will be our finalists!

To thank our current and past service members, many national restaurant chains are providing free or discounted meals with a proof of service (ID, photo, in uniform, etc.)  (Note: Not all franchise locations participate in their national chain's Veterans Day programs -- be sure contact your nearest establishment to confirm.) Here are just a few of the restaurants participating:

• Denny’s - Nov. 12 2012
• California Pizza Kitchen, Nov. 11-12, 2012
• Golden Corral – Free meal, Monday Nov. 12
• O’Charley’s - Nov. 12, 2012
• Outback Steakhouse – Free Bloomin’ Onion and Coke Nov. 11-12, 2012.
• Red Robin – Nov. 12, 2012. Free Red’s Tavern Double and Bottomless Steak Fries
• Sizzler – free Lunch, Monday Nov 12, 2012
• Souplantation & Sweet Tomoatoes - Nov. 11-12, 2012
• Spaghetti Warehouse, Monday - Nov. 12, 2012
• Texas Roadhouse – free lunch, Nov. 12, 2012: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• T.G.I. Friday’s – free Lunch, Monday Nov 12, 2012

For more specifics and to view more promotions and discounts, visit The Military Wallet

Besides the great companies providing discounts and freebies for America's Finest, here are a few ways that you can show your appreciation:

• Random acts of kindness. Have you ever gone up to pay for your coffee, only to find out that the person in front of you already took care of it? It is such a simple and thoughful way to make someone's day. Is there a service member dining at the same restaurant or coffee shop as you? Send over a drink or dessert on you.
• Send a care package. One of our P.L.A.Y. team members had a spouse serve overseas and he especially loved receiving packages with some comforts from home. Often times, servicemembers overseas don't have access to a lot of the same daily conveniences they are accustomed to.  Favorite items include: hand sanitizer, chapstick, gum, beef jerkey, drink mixes, sunflower and pumpkin seeds,cookies or even some canned foods like tuna salad. Don't forget our four legged service members either, dog lovers can include some treats or even small toys. To find out more informotion on what and where to send care packages, visit OurMilitary.com
  
• Donate to a Vet in Need. It's a sad truth, but many vets have a hard time acclimating back into civilian life and struggle with joblessness, financial burdens, as well as mental and physical disabilities. There are numerous organizations that are supporting our vets in need, you can help by donating. To learn more, here's a great list from the Huffington Post.  
  

Knowing that there are hundreds Military Working Dogs currently on active duty around the world, we wanted to help make their service a little more comfortable by sending a set of our Warm Bellies Chill Pads in care packages through Operation Military K9 Car,  Chapter 1 of the United States War Dogs Associations. If you want to help provide a little extra comfort for these amazing service dogs, visit Operation Military K9 Care for more info.

At P.L.A.Y., we sincerely thank and appreciate all of the service men, women and canines for their bravery, courage and sacrifices.

Does your dog have any quirky tricks? Share below!

Corbin keeps watch of the front door - just in case some barking is needed.

Momo and Corbin take their roles as "Official Product Testers" very seriously.

Sometimes, a little too seriously... they even test out our luxury pet beds in their sleep! Corbin goes above and beyond here - he's quality testing our Garden Fresh toys in his dreams!

With the state of the economy these last 5 years, it's not surprising that the number of households that become petless increased to 2.8 million. That's the first decline in over 15 years!

While yes, pets can be expensive (finding the right food, veterinary care, pet beds, etc.) we can assure you - they're SO worth it. Here's a great infographic from Masters in Healthcare showing just a few of the great benefits of having a pet.

How does your pet enrich your life? Leave us a comment below!

We especially love when people coordinate outfits with their pups! Check out this awesome duo.

This year, Miss Momo has decided she wanted to be a little bit more "lady-like" so... she's a ladybug! Too cute, right?

What about your pups, are they getting dressed up? Leave us a comment below or share your photos on our Facebook page!

Once known as “The Nanny Dog” for their intelligence, and loving and loyal nature; the very same traits are now causing people to label them as aggressive or dangerous. It’s their undoubted desire to please their family, their pack, that has been abused by people all around the world. We want to make it clear, that any dog – no matter size, breed or stereotype – can be aggressive. On the other side of that same coin, any dog – no matter size, breed, or stereotype – can be a loving addition to your family. Puppies that are socialized, trained, and treated well, can grow into mature and well-behaved canine citizens. Additionally, dogs have this amazing ability to persevere and forgive. Abused and mistreated dogs can often be rehabilitated and learn to trust again – with patience and training, abused dogs can become amazing family members, despite their horrible history.

Case and point – the Vicktory Dogs. Football star and dog abuser (we know him for the latter), Michael Vick bred, fought, tortured and killed a number of innocent dogs. These dogs experienced years of deplorable circumstances.  Many national rescue groups called for the euthanization of the dogs, saying they were unable to be rehabilitated. Thanks to the ASPCA and public outcry, these dogs were given a second chance. Out of the 49 dogs seized, 48 were taken to rescues, sanctuaries, fosters and adopters around the country. One had experienced too much horror; and the ASPCA deemed that she was unfit to be rehomed and should no longer live in fear.

Today, the Vicktory Dogs have become Pit Bull Ambassadors. Despite the emotional, physical and psychological abuse, these amazing dogs have endured and show people what forgiveness and perseverance looks like.

Here at P.L.A.Y. we are firmly against Breed Specific Legislation and believe that dogs should not be stereotyped because of their age, breed, color, size or any other random factor. Every dog should be given a fair chance at a fulfilling life. Pit Bulls make wonderful family members, hiking buddies, running partners, couch potatoes, snugglers, and companions. There are no bad dogs, just bad owners.

One of our P.L.A.Y. pack members is a Pit Bull – and while she can be a little rowdy and diva-ish at times, she is the definition of love.

If you have a Pit Bull-type breed (cause we know any dog that even resembles the breed, is called a Pit Bull), please share your photos and stories!

"Wake me up when it's time to eat."

What do you think she's saying? Caption this!

Pet obesity is a problem that many owners have to deal with over the course of their dogs’ lives. Whether it's one too many treats between meals, extra food from the dinner table, or a breed that’s predisposed to weight gain, unhealthy eating habits can lead to a slew of health issues.

Much like people, overweight pets risk developing illnesses such as high blood pressure, kidney diseases, type two diabetes, breathing problems, and more. The extra weight on pets that develop arthritis can increase their pain and discomfort as they move around. While there are pet meds that can help reduce weight gain, many dog owners prefer to make changes to diet and exercise first.

EXERCISE

Walking: An often-overlooked exercise, regularly scheduled walks can strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, increase energy and bone density, which can all help fend of arthritis. Also known to help with common behavioral problems, walking can be a simple solution for complicated issues.

Swimming: Easier on the joints, swimming provides a workout for dogs and people with arthritis. Swimming provides a low-impact workout that increases endurance while strengthening the heart, the lungs and working various muscle groups. Not all breeds enjoy swimming, so you may have to start slow. If your dog resist after coaxing with toys, treats, and encouragements, find a different sport.

Dancing: If walking is a bit too slow paced for you, you can always add some music and dance the day away with you pooch. Teaching your dog tricks and turns not only means more quality time, but an aerobic workout for you both that burns calories, increases stamina and improves muscle tone.

Jogging/Running: Not every breed can handle fast paced long distance running, so some research is necessary. You should also wait until your dog is out of its puppy stage before you build up to longer distances and times. Be mindful of weather conditions like heat or humidity, and provide a five-minute warm up and cool down with every session. Consult your vet for all the ins and outs of jogging with your dog.  

DIET

The saying "you are what you eat" is as true for your pet as it is for you. With that in mind, modifying your dogs diet could make the difference between a full healthy life, and a shortened one. Be sure to consult your vet before making any major changes to your dogs diet.

Treats & Proportions: What your dog eats, from portion sizes to frequency, begins and ends with you. It’s normal to want to spoil your dog with extra treats and it may be hard to deny his puppy-dog faces when he begs from the table. But a lack of discipline on your part can cost your dog his good health.

While nixing treats altogether may not be realistic, you have the choice of what kinds of treats you buy for you pet. Healthy alternatives like vegetables or rice cakes will help keep the weight in check. Portion control during regular meals is also an effective way to help with weight loss. Vets recommend cutting the daily food intake by 15% to 20% for a six to eight week period, and then analyzing the results.

Diet Dog Food: Making the switch can be tricky. Pets can be every bit as picky as people, and a bit of trial and error may be needed to see what your dog will and won’t eat. Switching foods too drastically can upset the routine your dog relies on and do more harm than good. Start the process slowly, mixing more and more diet food in along with the regular, and monitor the results.

Going Organic: For the sake of good health, many pet owners turn to organic dog foods or even make their own. Again, a consultation with your vet will help you choose the best brand for your breed, but a good rule of thumb to follow is the fewer the ingredients, the healthier the food will be.

Ingredients: In order to choose the best food for your dog, look for a few key features. Ingredients—both for pet and human food—are listed in order of amount. This means the first ingredient on the list makes up the majority of the food, followed by the second ingredient, and so on. The main ingredient should be meat, but not any kind of meat by-product. Avoid foods that list corn or another grain as the main ingredient.

In the end, you are the guardian of your dog’s good health. A little research and restraint can go a long way towards giving you and your four-legged friend many good years together.

Jackie Roberts is a writer for 1-800-PetMeds, and loves to help and support the pet community. You can find Pet Meds on Twitter or connect with Pet Meds on Youtube.

 By Missy Johnson

I have a friend. He's short, fuzzy, gives the best kisses and has inspired my life in so many ways. His name is Chamberlin and he's a sweet, black dog that was tied to a tree and left in the yard of his family's home. His family moved away and left Chamberlin and another pet friend in the backyard for over 2 months. When the dogs were found Chamberlin's fuzzy friend had passed away but the shelter rescuers saw a spark to live in Chamberlin, this special dog I call my friend.

My rescue awareness group, Dogs for the Paws recognizes amazing pet stories and Chamberlin's has been one of the most inspirational! I use my pet themed art to celebrate rescue pets and Chamberlin is a huge success story!  Over the last 2 years, he has come back from extreme starvation and neglect. Because of complications during his recovery, his front legs won't work but that doesn't stop him. He's got a cool wheelchair and a cart that gives him the freedom to attend rescue events and meet the hundreds of fans he has in his local community. Through his Facebook page he has captured the hearts of the World, from Canada to Australia.

I have donated art to Chamberlin and his shelter team at the Guilford County Animal Shelter and always look for new opportunities to help raise awareness for this special fuzzy boy who brings such happiness to my life and inspires my art. When I heard about the design contest hosted by P.L.A.Y. And Dog Milk I jumped at the chance to win a special gift for Chamberlin. Over the years I have given Chamberlin numerous blankets and such for him to use but to have a design of him,  made into a bed would be the ultimate gift I could give!

Winning the contest, and being able to go visit Chamberlin and present him with his new bed was so much fun. To see him enjoying his gift and taking pictures with him made my whole year! My friend, Gina came with me to meet this special fuzzy soul that has captured my heart.  She was surprised how active he is and loved spending time with his "Team Chamberlin" family at the shelter. This dedicated "family" is so proud of their boy and his progress. There is just something about this black dog that speaks to so many without saying a word. When he looks at me, my heart melts and I am so proud that he is enjoying the bed which he inspired. It is called "Chamberlin's Dream". Honestly, Chamberlin has no idea he is different or special...and in my World he is perfect.

About Missy
Charleston SC artist, Missy Johnson is always ready to put brush to canvas or pen to paper to help raise awareness for animals in need.  Founder of the pet rescue awareness movement, dogs4thepaws.com Missy, dubbed the "Rembrandt for Rovers," keeps busy woofing and blogging to help rescues/ shelters across our nation and beyond. Missy also offers commissions , design and illustration services through her design company, Art & Dog Design, to a wide variety of clients from coast to coast.

Part One can be read here: Learning to Speak Dog Part One.
Part Two can be read here: Learning to Speak Dog Part Two.
Part Three can be read here: Learning to Speak Dog Part Three.

Written by Natalia Martinez

The topic of whether dogs have feelings has been a hot one for years. To some (like myself) it is a no-brainer, of course they do! There is a great selection of books and videos that explore this fascinating topic.

"...it's time to stop apologizing for the belief that animals, like our dogs, have emotions. Of course, our dogs can experience emotions like fear, anger, happiness and jealousy. And yes, as far as we can tell, their experience of those emotions is comparable in many ways to ours. People who argue otherwise might as well argue that the earth is flat."
~Patricia McConnell in For the Love of a Dog

A dog, above all else, is an individual. Therefore take what you read here and everywhere else as a guideline, not a law. Just like we humans can misread each other, so can dogs. Always remember to err on the side of caution. A photograph, an illustration, maybe even a video can aid a lot in recognizing a dog's body language, but if you want the best experience possible, observe your dogs. Observe dogs at a dog park. Behavior is fluid and constantly (and rapidly) changing.

Human Communication vs Canine Communication
People, especially in our culture, tend to communicate in a linear way. We approach someone directly, we extend a hand to shake the other, we hug, we engage in direct eye contact and we move in a straightforward manner. All these things are considered positive in our culture, a sign of respect or giving someone your undivided attention.

Canines on the other hand have a non-linear form of communication. They often move around in a circle or arch. Eye contact is indirect and you can often get a good idea of a dog's personality and confidence level through her body language; confident dogs move swiftly and more directly while less confident ones are less direct, and move slower in a more calculated way.

First Impressions and Greetings
The number one mistake we all make upon meeting a dog is to approach them the way we would a person: directly (in a straight line), cooing "ooooh puppy!!" and reaching our hand out to pet them on the head while gazing lovingly into those big eyes... well, there are three main mistakes here: 1) direct approach, 2) reaching over the dog's head and 3) direct eye contact.

Most dogs dislike being patted on the head; didn't you hate your aunt pinching your cheeks as a kid? Same thing, so don't do it. And unless you know the dog well and know he is comfortable with it, do not grab the dog's face and kiss it! It is an invasion of space (and one I am guilty of with my own dogs, but I've raised them and have a relationship with them, they are ok with me doing it, but not a total stranger).

Pay close attention to Lili Chin's acclaimed illustration on How NOT To Greet a Dog. This is an extremely valuable lesson you can learn and teach others, especially kids.

The Big Picture
Observing the "whole dog" at a distance can give you a quick and general idea of the dog's mood. How does she hold her body? Is she wiggly, moving loosely? Or is she standing tall, stiff and still with her mouth shut tight? A dog with a loose, soft and wiggly body is one that is comfortable. Any stiffness, freezing on the other hand will tell you the dog is anxious, uncomfortable or on guard. Rolling over can very well mean "gimme belly rubs" but be careful to check for a relaxed mouth and tail. If the mouth is shut tight and the tail is curled up in between the dog's legs, she is trying to diffuse a stressful encounter and could actually be saying "I don't want trouble". People often mistake the rollover for an automatic belly rub request, will get too close only to find that the dog snaps or submissively urinates in response. See  video and illustrations below for some general things to look for on the whole.

The Details
Once you have a general idea after observing the dog as a whole, you can zoom in on individual body parts that will often give you key clues on the dog's emotional state. Check out Tails from the Lab for the full post and illustrations on cues from a dog's ears, eyes, mouth, fur and tail.

Communication is a Two-Way Street
Taking your own body language into account is hugely important. This does not mean mimicking dog behavior, we are not dogs and dogs are not human. The trick is to handle ourselves in a mindful manner that will make it possible for the dog to interpret what we are trying to communicate. Moving at a fast pace, slamming doors and cabinets like you do when you are running late for work can be scary for a dog that is a little more fearful. Or if you are animated in conversation, squealing and flailing your arms all over the place in jerky movements could seem a little threatening to a dog. Be mindful. It won't just be good for the dogs you encounter, it is good for you too. To seem less threatening to a dog, take account of your energy and your pace. Act naturally and calmly, and turn your body sideways (instead of straightforward) to let the dog know you mean no harm. Be aware of the dog at all times but don't stare, or the dog will feel challenged.

The 3 Second Rule
One of the greatest lessons I learned in Trish King's Canine Behavior Academy and working as a volunteer for both the Sonoma and Marin Humane Societies is the 3 Second Rule, which Trish learned about at Wolf Park, a renowned wolf sanctuary, and later recommended shelter volunteers to put it in practice while working with shelter dogs. Upon meeting a new dog, don't reach for the dog or try to pet him right away, it is better if the dog approaches you and wait him out. Until the dog feels comfortable (and you feel comfortable doing it), gently stroke the dog on the side for no more than three seconds (1 stroke, 2 stroke, 3 stroke...remove hand). If the dog leans against you or nudges you for more pets, then resume petting, if they don't that's ok, just be respectful of their space.

Asking a dog's person first if it's ok to say hello is ALWAYS a good idea. It is respectful to the person and kind to the dog. However, I like to add that the same question should be asked in some form to the dog himself! Mom might say it's ok to pet him but who asked the dog if HE wanted to be petted by this individual? And if I haven't drilled this point enough, please remember dogs are individuals. Just because your own dog LOVES a hefty scratch at the base of his tail or a deep and lengthy ear massage, DOES NOT mean EVERY other dog will enjoy that.

Lost in Translation
Canine body language interpretation is not an exact science, and just like any form of communication, misunderstandings can happen. While it is important to be as objective as possible, it is hard to not want to throw our own emotional subjectivity in there. If you've ever been bitten, try and think about what was going on before the bite, where were you, what were you doing, how many people/animals were there, did you see any warning signs in the dog's body language (some dogs, like Rotties will give you only a brief signal beforehand) etc. Analyzing this will give you an idea of what went wrong and what can be done to prevent a situation like this in the future.

Proper management and setting the dog up for success is key here. It is my personal belief that a dog will not bite without provocation (regardless of how slight and whether we know we are the ones provoking them) and 9 out of 10 times it can be the person's fault due to ignorance, fast movements, moving without thinking, carelessness, not knowing the dog, not having enough time to read the body before the bite or not paying attention etc. It could happen to any of us. Some of the best and most knowledgeable behaviorists and trainers have a collection of stories of bites they've received. We are human, we can make mistakes. If we figure out what we could have done differently to avoid that bite, we do so in the future being careful not to generalize what happened with that individual dog that bit us; you learn and you move on.

Read the full post from Tails From the Lab to get more tips on learning how to read a dog's body language (there's a great section for photographers, and book recommendations!).

1. You're saving two lives. The pup you adopted and the one taking his place at the shelter. Millions of dogs are put down in the US every year. It's a heartbreaking reality, but too many people give up their pets or don't spay and neuter; and not enough are adopting. By adopting a dog, you are giving two dogs the opportunity for a better life. The one you rescued now has a new loving family and another homeless pet will now have access to food, warmth and medical care at the shelter.
2. Unconditional love. Okay, so this really goes for any kind of dog. But many shelter dogs are down on their luck and are experiencing some heartache (loss of their home and family - or even worse, they've never experienced love or compassion at all)  this makes them that much more thankful to their forever family. It definitely takes time and patience to transition a new member of the family - but trust us, it's worth it.
3. You'll feel better. Yes, you feel great that you've adopted a dog. But pets are also shown to be great for physical and psychological health. Studies have shown that dog owners are not only more active (dogs do need to be walked after all) but also have less stress and are happier in general.
4. Your new pup will be healthy. Many shelters and rescue groups do all that they can to make sure the animals are as healthy as possible before being adopted. In additional to vaccinations and spay/neuter programs, many shelters also assess temperaments to find the right family for a pet's personality.
5. You won't be supporting puppy mills. Puppy mills are notorious for the horrible treatment of their dogs. Seen as dollar signs and not loving animals, these pups receive poor (if any) medical treatment and are often riddled with many ailments. The pets used for breeding spend their entire lives in filthy cages with little to no socialization or affection. The people who purchase from pet stores often are unaware that they are supporting these horrible operations. By adopting a dog, you are helping put a stop to puppy mills.

These are just a few reasons why adopted pets rock! Got something to add? Leave a comment below. If you're not looking to add to your family, you can still help a dog in need! For every pet bed purchased on our website, we'll donate a Chill Pad to a homeless pet through our Warm Bellies Intitiave with the Petfinder Foundation.

We want to hear your adopted dog stories! Submit your photo for a chance to win one of three great prize packs from P.L.A.Y.! To enter, visit our Facebook page.

Part One can be read here: Learning to Speak Dog Part One.
Part Two can be read here: Learning to Speak Dog Part Two.

Contributed by Natalia Martinez

Special guest post by Trish King

Trust: Developing a relationship with your new dog…

You just acquired a new dog – maybe a youngster, perhaps a bit older – and you’re in love. Let’s call your dog Dolly. You were drawn to her in the shelter or rescue, and now you have her home.  She is wonderful, with just a few tiny exceptions.

For instance, when you pet her, she leans into you, putting her head on your knees. This feels great to you, but other people aren’t getting the same response. Sometimes she shies away or won’t come close to them, and occasionally you’ve heard a barely audible growl, almost under her breath. If she is lying on her bed or in her crate, she freezes when people come over to pet her. Sometimes she stares at them suspiciously. This worries you.

This is actually not that unusual – the dog you meet when you adopt is often not the dog you see weeks or months later. Like humans, dogs don’t display all their behaviors upon first meeting. In addition, they change, sometimes for the better, sometimes not, depending on the environment they find themselves in.

The first thing you loved about Dolly is that she seemed to bond to you instantaneously. The desire to bond is strong within dogs – they need a family (pack) to survive, and they know it. Most are above all things, social. Even dogs that are not particularly sociable will bond strongly to one or two people, and the speed with which they do it can be amazing. 

Unlike bonding, trust is earned, and cannot be rushed. Training of course will help immeasurably, but it is secondary to trust.

What is trust?
For your dog, it is the belief that you will keep her safe. But how do you convince an animal who must learn through experience, particularly when her previous life was either unknown or not happy? You cannot tell her, since she won’t understand. Petting shows affection, but nothing more than that. And training obedience will tell her what you expect but not what she can.

I think it is shown by consistency and predictability. If a dog can reliably predict the outcome of a certain set of circumstances, she will learn to trust that the next time that circumstance occurs, the same outcome will too.

First, make sure that you are reliable and predictable, to the best of your ability. There may well come a time when you will need to be unpredictable, but that time is not now. Make sure you set rules of the house, so that she knows what is expected of her.

Secondly, try to insure that all of her first experiences are calm, slow and friendly. If she has shown a tendency to be shy with new people, have all new people behave slightly aloof at first. It’s generally best to have guests come in, ignore the dog, sit down, and then wait for the dog to approach.

Introductions to dogs should also be done carefully, if your dog appears to be nervous. Parallel walks generally work well, with the more fearful dog initiating any interaction. Anxious or fearful dogs generally do not like to be followed by other dogs, and usually want to sniff the rear end of the new dog first to get a quick introduction without the intimidation of eye contact.

Allow time for latent learning – don’t have new experiences follow one another too quickly. She will become overwhelmed, and the learning will stop. Patience is key.

As your dog learns that you are trustworthy, experiences that would have frightened her previously will stop. She will look to you for guidance…and of course, that’s what true leadership is.

~Trish King

To read Trish's full post, visit the Tails From the Lab blog.

Trish is a nationally known  speaker, behavior consultant, trainer and teacher whose versatility, expertise  and empathy make her unique in her field.  What sets Trish apart is her  ability to relate to and enjoy both dogs and humans.  Trish has taught the Canine Behavior Academy for dog  professionals and dog lovers for over 10 years.  In addition to continuing  at the Marin Humane Society, this school - now named Courses in Canine  Behavior - will be located at several different venues, including  The Peninsula Humane Society in San Mateo, California, and the Sacramento SPCA  in Sacramento.  Over her long career, Trish has seen thousands of dogs of  every breed, shape and size.  She understands that your dog is different  from every other dog, just as you are, and will need a personalized plan for  improvement. Trish will work with you to help you decide the best course for  your dog.  She will offer a variety of realistic options that will provide  you with maximum benefits for your situation.  Her clients have found her  to be very easy to work with, flexible and understanding of their  needs. Trish was the Director of Behavior & Training at the Marin  Humane Society for 23 years.  Her department set the standard for shelters  and training facilities across the country.

This Friday, September 21st, Wag Hotel is holding their Wags and Wine event to support Grateful Dogs Rescue. Local to the Bay Area, Wag Hotel specializes in pet boarding, doggie daycare, grooming and pet day spa services. (They are also a proud sponsor of our Warm Bellies Initiative!) The event takes place on Wag Hotels' rooftop and is of course, doggy friendly! Sip on some yummy wine, mingle with other pups, listen to some great music, and know that you and your dog are supporting an awesome cause! Tickets are still available, you can purchase them here.

Wag Hotel also offers a wide variety of classes through their Wag University. From puppy basics to pet first aid and CPR, the training and knowledge they provide is invaluable.

P.L.A.Y. also recently partnered with Wine Barrel Concepts to create a series of customized beds that are specially outfitted for wine barrels. These aren’t just your ordinary wine barrels... they are wine barrels that double up as home furniture and pet bed casings. Just like P.L.A.Y. pet beds, each wine barrel is made from high quality materials that aren’t just good-looking, but built to last. They currently offer two P.L.A.Y. designs with more on the way! Check them out on Wine Barrel Concepts' page.

In addition to pet beds, they also make a wonderful assortment of other furniture and decorative pieces. We especially love the Wine Barrel Bookcase and kitchen Serving Platter.

We think it's awesome how both Wag Hotels and Wine Barrel Concepts have come up with such cool ways to pair two things that we love so much, our pups and wine!

This summer has been a scorcher and it looks like the heat is here to stay for a little bit longer. For humans, if we get too hot we can easily find shade and get ourselves a glass of water. But for our pets, we are responsible for their safety and comfort. Dogs don't sweat like humans do, so when they're hot they tend to pant and release sweat through their paws and nose. When dogs can't cool down quickly enough, over-heating becomes a serious risk. Just to be safe, make sure to know and recognize the symptoms of heat stroke:

• Excessive panting that can start and stop randomly
• Excessive drooling or foaming of the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Signs of distress including (but not limited to) barking and whining

If your believe your pup is experiencing heat stroke and any of the following signs, it is crucial for you to act immediately and take your pup to the vet.

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Confusion, lack of coordination, loss of consciousness
• Very red gums
• Uncontrolled tremors
• Listless and very weak

To prevent heat stroke, we URGE owners to never, ever leave their pets in the car unattended. Even when the weather is pleasant outside, your car acts like an oven - the temperature can rise very quickly. This video from Red Rover Org shows us just how dangerous leaving a pet in the car can be.

Additionally, avoid rigorous exercise when it's too hot outside (we recommend doing this in the early morning or late evening), and never leave your pet outside without access to shade and water.

Contributed by Natalia Martinez,

Written by Jessica Dolce

Space. Some us us like a lot of it and some of us prefer closeness… whether we are old friends or just met. Either way, it is a personal preference; one that should be respected. Believe it or not, it is the same in the world of dogs, except in their world space is a HUGE deal. Expercts believe in fact that all aggression-relted issues in dogs tend to be about space: taking it, protecting it, you name it.

A key to understanding canine behavior involves understanding a dog’s needs; and since space is such a huge part of it, I could not have been more excited to have Jessica Dolce, dog lover, dog walker, blogger and the person behind the hugely popular DINOS: Dogs In Need Of Space guest blog for us today! Please make sure and visit the Team DINOS Facebook page and check out the Team DINOS shop, filled with great products (designed in collaboration with Jessica by our very own Design Lab Creative Studio!) to help support people living with DINOS dogs and spread a positive message to the community.

I’ve been dog walking for almost ten years. I’ve also worked and volunteered in animal shelters and in just about every pet related business on the planet. I hang with dogs full time and they’ve been kind enough to teach me what they need to feel safe and happy in our world.

One of the lessons I’ve learned from dogs is a simple one that we humans have a hard time understanding: dogs have personal boundaries. Just like people, sometimes dogs needs space.

They need space for a lot of different reasons. Some of the dogs I walk need space from other dogs because they just had surgery and are in pain. Or they’re reactive and are learning how to stay calm around dogs in public. Many of them are adolescents with no manners who need space in order to learn polite greetings. And some are fine with dogs, but terrified of strange people. A bunch are just old and don’t want to be bothered. Fair enough, right? But day after day, as I walk my pals, I encounter a real problem for us: many well meaning people have no control over their dogs (or themselves). People allow their dogs to drag them across the street, forcing nose-to-nose greetings with strange dogs. Or they ignore leash laws and let their dogs run loose in designated on-leash areas.

Giving dogs space allows more dogs to be successful out in the world. Here’s a few reasons why:

• Many, many dogs need slow introductions to strange dogs. Most dogs dislike nose-to-nose greetings. It’s not natural for them.
• Leashed dogs are typically not comfortable meeting an off leash dog. It’s an out of whack dynamic. One dog is restrained, the other loose and moving freely.
• And some dogs are comfortable meeting dogs any which way, but are working and need space, like service dogs. Service dogs need space to do their jobs properly.
• There are even some dogs with illnesses, like epilepsy, that make it dangerous for them to interact with strange dogs.

Here’s what we can do to help DINOS and please remember to have compassion. One day your dog might become a DINOS due to illness, injury, old age, or a bad experience with another dog. At one time or another in their lives, almost every dog is a DINOS.

• Please have your dogs under your control at all times. If there are leash laws, please obey them. Even if your dog is friendly.
• Ask permission before you allow yourself or your dogs to approach an unfamiliar dog.
• Wait for an answer.
• If it’s no, please don’t be offended or speak harsh words. You never know what another person and their dogs are going through
• Allow them enough space to pass safely.

Be polite, be responsible, be compassionate.

To read Jessica's full post, visit the Tails From the Lab blog.

Jessica Dolce is an animal welfare advocate. She’s spent the past ten years walking dogs and working with shelter dogs in Philadelphia and Maine. Jessica blogs at notesfromadogwalker.com and can be found cheering people on over at the DINOS: Dogs in Need of Space Facebook page.

  Written by: Natalia Martinez

“Living with a dog–trying to understand a dog, to read his or her behavior and emotional state–is such a complex blend of reality and imagination, such a daily mix of hard truths and wild stabs in the dark.” – Pack of Two, Caroline Knapp

It is estimated that 62 percent of all households in the United States have a pet; of those, 78.2 million are dogs and 86.4 million are cats. Approximately 5 million to 7 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year. But if cats and dogs are the world’s most popular pets, why are so many surrendered to shelters? The possible answers are too many to list here and regardless, the spectrum is too wide and varied to make a generalization. Some people are genuinely heartbroken at having to give up their animals for reasons beyond their control, while with others we are lucky if they even bother to bring them into a shelter at all.

But more and more, a BIG reason behind relinquishing a pet is incompatibility and behavior problems. These behavior problems range from “the dog chews everything in sight” or “this cat is spraying everywhere” to “the dog has lunged and/or bitten people and/or other dogs.”

So, why should you care about understanding canine behavior?
In my eyes, it is this simple: You want a good relationship with a dog? Then proper communication is essential. Gone are the days of a one-sided conversation, not with all the wonderful information available to you. Dogs will not answer back in English or in Lassie-like form (“Lassie! is Timmy hurt?!” “bark! bark!”), but they speak their needs and emotions with their body and behavior, if you just have the patience to observe. Good communication has a way of establishing trust and trust has a wonderful way of weaving a friendship doesn’t it? If you still need another reason why you should care, how about keeping more families together, preventing more dog bites, dog fights and keeping more animals out of shelters, not to mention raising, caring for and training happy, healthy and stable four-legged friends? It all sounds good to me.

Try this:
1) Next time you are conversing with a friend, try to listen like your dog would: Say nothing, just use all your senses and take it all in.
2) Likewise, next time you talk to your dog, use the words you know he is familiar with in a sentence. Speak slowly, softly and emphasize words you know he’ll recognize. What do you see? How does your dog react?
3) Go on a “sniff walk”. Instead of you deciding where you want to walk with your dog, try and let him (or his nose) decide. This will take some patience and time of course, but that is EXACTLY what you’ll need, and LOTS of it. Obviously, don’t let your dog follow his nose into trouble but do try to let him use his nose and stop when he stops. In other words, stop and smell the roses, it’s good for you. For those of you training your dog to walk politely by your side, this might seem like breaking the rules, so here’s what we did with our dog: We have a “polite walk time” and a “sniff walk time”. I tend to do the sniff walk first because Corbin is older and needs to check his pee-mail before engaging in anything else. After a short “sniff walk”, he is more than happy to do his “polite walk”. For younger dogs that are just starting to learn, sniffing is rewarding! So use it to your advantage in training: let’s walk politely for a few minutes and use a release word like “go sniff” to reward the polite walk.

To read the full post, visit Tails from the Lab.

Gracie sure is enjoying a Dog's Life... :)

No, she's not named after the Avatar: The Last Airbender series. But we did love the show (and kind of liked the movie).

And yes, Momo does mean "peach" in Japanese. While Momo is super fuzzy and sweet, that's not how she got her name either.

To be honest, her name is a hybrid of what we originally had in mind. You see, we love the Madagascar movies and and one of our favorite scenes involves a chunky hippopotamus named, Moto Moto. We originally were planning on naming a new boy pug Moto Moto, but little miss Momo stole our hearts... so we decided to change the name a little bit so that it just sounded girlier. We think it fits her perfectly.

Here's a cool infographic all about dog names we came across on Pet360! Check out the list of the most popular names, does your pup make the list?

(Dog names graphic produced by Matt Beswick for Pet365. Click here to view the full post.)

How did you come up with your dog's name? Leave us a comment below!

This adorable pup sneaks food out of his brother's bowl when he isn't paying attention! LOL

The Battersea Dogs & Cats Home noticed that when they arrived in the morning to work, kennel doors were open with dogs roaming the halls and food eaten in the kitchen. They couldn't solve the mystery so they decided to install some cameras to get to the bottom of things and made a startling discovery! This intelligent pup unlocked his kennel every night and even made sure to let his best buddies and girlfriend in on the fun too!

This last clip features 'Klepto Kitty" caught in the act! Dusty sneaks around at night to get presents to bring home for his owner! We especially love how he brings home his prize (and waddles) at 01:19.

Do you have a sneaky pet? Leave us a comment below!

Treats! No not the everyday kind of treats, the reserved only-for-special-occasions-like-birthdays-and-holidays kind. We are a little over the top and like to give our pup a special homemade meal of either ground meat or even steak (here's our fave recipe), but any yummy treats will do! Here are some of Momo's summer day favorites.

Go on an adventure! Take your pup to her favorite place, or better yet, take her somewhere she's never been before! Our pup gets to go on walks and to the dog park all of the time - so for special occasions, we like to take her to the beach or on one of the many walking trails in the area. She loves the new smells and we love the change in scenery!

Toys, Toys, Toys! If your household is like ours, there can never be too many toys! We have a selection of plush, puzzle, squeaker and agility toys. It's nice to have a variety that way Momo never gets bored. We especially love her puzzle and intellectual toys - she stimulates her mind while we get to dote on how smart she is. Here are a few of Momo's favorites dog toys.

Spend the day together! If you're able to, take your pup to work. It will be a nice change for both of you; she won't have to wait all day while you're gone and you won't have to worry what she's doing at home!  If you can't take her with you, take her on your other errands. She'll feel special getting to ride in the car and meeting new people. (Of course, use judgement here - you wouldn't want to take your dog along just to leave her in the car. And if she doesn't particularly like new people, maybe this isn't a great treat.)

How are you spoiling your pup today? Leave us a comment below, we'd love to hear from you!

1. Very thin
2. Underweight
3. Ideal
4. Overweight
5. Obese

After checking my pup, I'm sad to learn that she is just a little overweight. While that may not seem like a big deal to some - losing even 5-10% of body weight can be a huge feat! Similar to humans, overweight pets have many serious health risks, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Diabetes
• Heart and Respiratory Disease
• Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury
• Many Forms of Cancer
• Decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years)
• And many more!

If you're like us, you probably sneak your pet one too many treats or table scraps. It's definitely hard to resist that sweet face! But just knowing that you could be contributing to a decreased life expectency (2.5 years! For our dog, thats over 20% of her life!), it's so important to resist the begging.

To help shed some pounds, it's pretty simple - healthier eating habits and regular exercise. Have you ever met a dog that doesn't like to play? Walks are great too, but no doddling! Not only will you be helping your pup, you'll be spending more quality time together and you're being active and healthy too! For more information and some great weight loss tips, check out PetObesityPrevention.com.

As a veterinarian, and the founder of the US pet health insurance industry, I innately want to treat every pet that has a chance to recover and remain a beloved companion. Helping pets is the reason I entered the profession in the first place-- to treat and cure them.  However, all too often pet owners are financially unprepared for a pet’s unexpected accidents or illnesses. That is why over 30 years ago I started pet insurance in the United States. In 1981 a client asked me to euthanize her dog because she couldn't afford treatment. Shortly after, I ran into the woman with her daughter at a local store. When the client asked her child if she remembered me, she responded, “Yes, he's the one who killed my dog."

After this experience, I was determined to stop “economic euthanasia” in pets. It was shortly after that time that I founded the first U.S. pet insurance company. I have since founded another pet insurance company, Pets Best Insurance, which I lead today.

I understood that pet owners needed a method to help them always afford veterinary care. The method had to be reliable, financially sound and always available when needed for financial assistance—and the method was pet health insurance.

Pet insurance plans helps pet owners pay for unexpected medical events that happen frequently and infrequently to pets. It covers visits, treatments, surgery, diagnostics and even emergency visits for pets. Even routine pet care can be added for additional premium, when pet owners want coverage for wellness visits, immunizations, teeth cleaning or annual diagnostic screening test.  Pet insurance is a type of property insurance and is regulated by each State Department of Insurance, with all the license, financial reserve and reporting requirements of an insurance company.

Unlike human health care, pet health insurance allows the pet owners to choose their own veterinarian.  Pet insurance also does not set prices or restrict procedures, as with human health plans—it simply pays for the veterinary services.  After a deductible, the insurance will pay 70, 80, 90% or 100% of coverage, depending on the plan and company chosen.  There are several deductible options, such as $100, $250, $500 or $1,000. Most, but not all pet health insurance pays the percentage selected (70, 80, 90%) of your pet’s cost for care.

With pet insurance, a pet owner can leverage their spending power.  For instance, with a $100 deductible, 80:20 plan, where the insurance pays 80% after the deductible, the leverage is nearly 5X as much as otherwise affordable by the average pet owner. Surveys of pet owners demonstrate that due to limited discretionary income they will put their pet to sleep if the cost is more than $1,400 on average.  However, with insurance the average pet owner can afford $7,000 in pet cost and still only be out of pocket the affordable $1,400. 

 Purchasing a pet insurance plan for your pet will help provide peace of mind in knowing you can more easily afford nearly any care your pet might need.  It is also important because it allows pet owners to budget for their pet’s care. By paying an affordable monthly premium, pet owners have the power of leveraging their spend to avoid going into debt or sacrificing savings for unexpected pet care, something a pet savings account cannot perform.  Your pet may have a serious accident or illness before you have enough time to save a sufficient amount or your pet may have multiple medical problems in a short period of time, overwhelming any savings accumulated.

The cost of pet insurance will vary based on a number of factors, including the choice of plans, your pets’ breed, age and where you live.  An average annual premium for Pets Best is $370 per year for a good comprehensive plan. There are a number of ways to decrease your cost, such as with higher deductible and co-payment options. 

To summarize whether pet insurance is right for you, consider the following questions:

1. Is the health of your pet very important to you?
2. Do you seek veterinary care when your pet is ill or injured?
3. Do you like to operate on a budget?
4. Do you prefer to use insurance to mitigate or reduce your risk?
5. Will you do whatever it takes to restore your pet’s health?

If you answered yes to the majority of these questions, then cat or dog insurance would be a wise choice for unexpected and costly accidents and illness that may happen to your pet.

For more information about pet insurance visit http://www.petsbest.com

Momo's hanging out on our Camouflage Lounge Bed with a Big Bone pillow.

Rough life.

To some, all of this commotion over one dog may seem a bit excessive. To dog lovers like us, Lennox represented a whole breed of misunderstood and mistreated souls that just simply deserve better.  At any given time, there are approximately 35,000 bully dogs in shelters across the nation - each awaiting his or her fate. In his memory, all we can do is continue to thank and support the countless number of people and rescue groups who are working to change this perception.

RIP Lennox. 

Thanks to our friends at Photo Lab Pets for this heartfelt photo.

Lost cats and dogs: Your pets versus 4th of July fireworks

Do you know what day is historically the busiest day of the year in animal shelters all across the country?

It’s the FIFTH of July.

Do you know why? Yup, you guessed it… fireworks!

In reality though, that’s only partially right. The real reasons are a bit more involved than just “fireworks”. And to truly do something about the staggering number of pets that wind up in shelters each year on July 5^th, it’s important that you be aware of these reasons. Of course, it’s even more important that you’re aware of and take the easy steps to prevent your cats and dogs from becoming lost and also increasing your chances of being reunited with them should your preventive efforts fail.

To learn how to recognize and decrease your pet's anxiety, visit The Preventive Vet for the full article.

Now there are many dogs that can skateboard, snowboard and even surf (and they're all amazing, in our opinion) but Tillman is the fastest and arguably the first! He set the world record in 2009  by rolling 100 meters in just 19.6 seconds! Not to mention, he actually skateboards; he not only stands on the board, he turns it, pushes it and just has a great time doing it!

Tillman now travels the country in his dedicated bus (you can see it in the video) with his crew of other awesome and adorable pups! We think for all of his hard work, he deserves a luxury pet bed to crash out on, don't you?

Go out and explore the great outdoors! Hiking is great way to bond with your dad and get some exercise in! Many states require passes to enter or park, so why not treat your dad to a seasonal or annual pass? There are options for camping, boating, fishing, you name it. Check on your state's website for more specifics (California residents can find more details here).

Take him out to the ball game! We listed this last year, but this is our go-to gift for our dad. If you've got a sports lover in the family, he's sure to love tickets to root on your local baseball team. (Some stadiums even have days where they allow you to bring your pup!)The best part - lots of tickets start at under $20 bucks - check out www.MLB.com for more info.

Fire up the grill! Grilling is essential to summer and synonomous with dads. He'll be super excited to have someone else manning the BBQ and appreciative of the gesture. You can find some awesome grilling recipes on Food.com.

For the dog dad, we've got tons of great dog beds and accessories that will make him feel loved and spoiled. It's ruff keeping up with puppies after all.

Whatever you decide to do, we hope you and your dad(s) enjoy the weekend!

There are some dogs that just LOVE to swim. It's as if it's just ingrained into their being. We've all seen the lab that can't get enough of rolling in puddles, playing in sprinklers, and begging for baths. Not every dog has this love of water. In fact, some don't know how to swim at all. Take Momo for instance, she loves the water but had to be taught how to swim.

1. Never leave your dog unattended while near water. Enough said.
2. Get a flotation vest. If your pup isn't a strong swimmer (like Momo), or you're going to be out in deeper water, vests are a must. The handle on the back makes it easy for you to grasp if needed and it's good for your peace of mind too! (Not to mention, they're super cute!)
3. Pay attention to the conditions. If the river looks like it's running a little fast, or the waves are a little high - skip the swimming.
4. Make sure you have enough drinking water on hand. It can get even hotter around water, and dogs can get tired while swimming too! You don't want your pup drinking from the pool, river, lake, or ocean - the chemicals and bacteria could cause a seriously belly ache.

Make sure to keep these factors in mind the next time you take your pup for a dip, and everyone is sure to have a ton of fun!

Since the founding of our country, millions of Americans have given their lives while serving in the military. That number also includes the heroic military dogs that have worked alongside our countries finest since WWI. Today there are approximately 2800-3000 working dogs stationed all around the world. These dogs play a vital role; with their strong sense of smell and their amazing hearing abilities - they are able help identify dangers that the human eye/nose/ear cannot. In addition to their senses, these dogs also provide comfort and a sense of normalcy for the men and women serving in their unit; something that is truly invaluable during a time of war.

Military dogs often serve in the most dangerous areas and have helped save a countless number of lives; often giving their own to do so. At P.L.A.Y., we are simply in awe of these amazing pups. That's why we've recently donated a set of our Chill Pads to the United States War Dog Association to help make their time overseas a little comfier. If you'd like to contribute to the Operation Military Care K9 - please visit the US War Dog's website for a list of needed items.

So while you enjoy the long weekend with your family and friends, please take a moment to honor the men, women and dogs that have given their lives to protect ours.

At P.L.A.Y., we're particularly fond of four-legged service members. These dogs go through extensive training and not only play a huge part in their partner and handler's life but also in the community they work for. K-9s are often fitted with ballistic vests, receive police IDs and badges, and are official sworn officers. Additionally, K-9s killed in the line of duty are also honored with a full police funeral.

In this video, we get a peek inside the training and lives of both K9s and their handlers.

This week, take an extra moment to thank your local police officers for all that they do. Whether a handshake, a friendly wave, or a tip of your hat, let them know that they are appreciated!

Flowers are always a favorite with women, especially moms. Pick some from the garden, visit the farmers market, or head to your local grocer. You're sure to find some gorgeous in-season blooms that Mom will love. We particularly love tulips this time of year, not only do they smell good they are so bright and colorful!

Get cooking! Whether it's breakfast in bed, a lunchtime barbeque, or a mouthwatering dessert, moms can appreciate the time and effort you put into making something yummy. This Creamy Peach Tart from Food & Wine Magazine comes out looking good and tasting even better (I added strawberries for a pop of color, but any fruit in season should work just as well)! For the cooking-challenged, boxed cake mix or brownies are super easy to make and still are homemade!

Give the gift of giving. Depending on what causes are near and dear to your momma's heart, a donation to her favorite charity or organization is a wonderful gesture. Mom will appreciate your thoughtfulness and be so proud to have raised such a generous kid. If it isn't obvious, we are partial towards rescue groups and shelters; the Petfinder Foundation is definitely on of our favorites!

Last but not least, don't forget any dog mama's out there either! A yummy treat, an extended trip to the dog park, or some belly scratches should do just fine.

Hopefully this list has given some of you procrastinators (myself included) some good ideas! What did you get your mom? Leave us a comment below!

1. Get to the vet! It's important that your pup have a clean bill of health before traveling, especially on a plane. Some breeds have difficulty flying, so make sure to get your vet's opinion and recommendations. Additionally, ask for a health certificate and current vaccination records (some airlines and destinations will require this - make sure you do your research before traveling).
2. Identification! Losing luggage can ruin a trip... losing your pet can ruin more than just that! Make sure your pet has ID tags with all of your current information on it (and information on how to contact you while you're traveling). Also, make sure that he has a fitted collar, you don't want that getting caught on anything.
3. First Class! If your pup can't fly in the cabin with you, make sure your pup's crate is big enough for her to stand up, turn around and lie down in. If possible, exercise your pup before you fly, that way she's burned off any excess energy and can relax. Don't let your pup travel on a full stomach and try to take a potty break as close to take off as possible. Keep her crate comfy by bringing her favorite blanket/mat (Chill Pads are perfect for this!) and toy, and make sure she has access to water (enough to keep her hydrated, but not fill up her bladder).
4. Reward and praise! Once you're reuinited after the flight, try not to make a huge scene and overexcite your pet. Instead, reward him with lots of praise and some yummy treats.

Do you have any trips coming up? We'd love to hear about it - leave us a comment below!

Bah Humpug features ridiculously cute illustrations created by Sunny's mom. The blog recently got a lot of attention because of this awesome pug alphabet she created.

All of the pictures are so fun; they range from fairy tale (see Repugzel), to everyday life (see Sunny Day), and even to current events (see Hunger Games, a Pug Version). I could look at her posts all day, and if you ask me, it would be a day well spent! So far, our favorite definitely has to be Brown Noser. Cause everyone just hates (or in this case, loves) a brown noser! :)

And to get your daily fix of all things pugs, Bah Humpug has a Facebook Page now so make sure to visit and "Like" it! Which pictures are your favorites? Leave us a comment below!

Momo's got it ruff...

Luckily, she's got a Bamboo Lounge Bed AND a Dog's Life Lounge Bed to rest on. 
It's hard being this cute.

To us, being green isn't just about being good to the planet. It's about being good to ourselves too! We try to make sure we eat as naturally and healthily as possible - that includes Miss Momo! That's why when we met Andrea and Bocce, the mastermind and inspiration behind Bocce's Bakery, we were in love! Bocce's Bakery specializes in all-natural, preservative and chemical-free biscuits for our four-legged family members. In addition to the freshest ingredients, all of the yummy treats are even hand-made! With flavors like Fish & Chips, Truffle Mac &  Cheese and The Big Apply Pie, your pup will be in biscuit heaven - you'll be tempted to try them yourselves...

We've said it before and we'll say it again: everyone poops. A trait of a responsible dog owner is whether or not they scoop that poop. While we like to recycle and reuse, grocery bags that you use to get rid of your pup's waste (which yes, is better than just throwing them away), can take up to 1,000 (yes, 1,000) years to breakdown. That's a lot of years for carrying your groceries and some poop. We say, take that extra step and get some biodegradable bags.

At the HH Backer show, we came across a great new company called Earth Rated. There are definitely a lot of poop bag companies out there - but Earth Rated touts PoopBags that are bigger, thicker, tougher and, for those days when Buddy is dragging his butt, totally leak-proof. If you're like us, leak-proof is important. In as quick as 24 months, these bags break down into completely natural carbon dioxide and water - and 24 months is WAY better than 1,000 years. What we especially love is that they also create compostable bags made from all-natural ingredients (like corn) that break down in as little as 40 days. Poop bags have never been so cool.

As usual, we're always working on creating new eco-friendly pet beds and accessories Our latest products, greeting cards and gift tags, are made from 100% post-consumer recycled waste. To top it off, they're super cute too.

Have you tried any of these products? We'd love to hear your thoughts - leave us a comment below!

"My dog has eaten every bed I've gotten him." Sound like something you'd say? We hear this all the time from pet owners all around the country. If you're like us, you've probably come home to a big pile of fluff and a guilty looking dog more than once in your life. We asked Mikkel Becker, certified dog trainer and Vetstreet contributor, for her advice on how to combat puppy chewing.

"Most dogs simply chew on their beds because of a lack of mental stimulation, and providing alternative outlets is the way to go," says Mikkel. She recommends having ample food, puzzles, toys and other chews in the area - making sure to reward and praise when used. We particularly love Kyjen smart puzzles and frozen stuffed Kongs.

Additionally, some dogs chew due to seperation anxiety and it's important to treat and train for the behavior to go away. "The biggest thing about working with dogs that like to chew on their beds is actually to teach them to relax on their mat area.  The easiest way to train this is with the "go to your mat" command.  Essentially you teach your dog that the mat area is for lying down, and is never a chew toy," says Mikkel. Check out this great Vetstreet video of Mikkel mat training her pug Bruce!

Lastly, Mikkel notes that "during the training stages dogs should not be left alone with their nice beds, but rather only use them under supervision and use towels or other items they are less likely to chew until they have proven over time they can be left alone with their nice beds."

What about you? How did you help your pup get over the chewing phase? Leave us a comment below!

Where is your pup's favorite place to go?

One of the best dog movies of all time (in our opinion) is definitely Lady and the Tramp. Disney recently re-released the movie and created this gem of a video to promote it.

And who could resist Bolt? Watching him learn how to be a normal dog was hilarious and heartwarming at the same time! We love when he learned the wonders of sticking your head and tongue out a window. (I admit, this clip made me a little teary eyed...)

An oldie, but a goodie, is definitely Turner and Hooch. Hooch is adorably silly and you can't help but laugh at Tom Hanks. I mean, c'mon... why would he expect anything less from smart pup like Hooch?

These are just a few of our favorites. What are your favorite dog-centric movies?

To kick off National Pet Month, we are excited to announce our very first Twitter Party! We’ve partnered with the Petfinder Foundation for our Warm Bellies Initiative, and now we want to celebrate all pets! We’ll be hosting our #WarmBellies Twitter Party on Tuesday, April 3^rd at 4PM PDT/ 7PM EDT. We’ve got some great industry experts on board, so make sure to join us for a chance to learn some valuable tips and tricks! We’re also giving away some awesome prizes every 10 minutes – don’t miss out! Keep track of the #WarmBellies conversation using our TweetGrid.

For all of your training questions, we’re excited to have Certified Pet Dog Trainer and TV Personality, Andrea Arden, joining us! Andrea can be seen on a number of Animal Planet shows including Dogs101, Pets101, and Underdog to Wonderdog. @Andrea_ArdenFor the fashion-forward pup - Pet Fashion Stylist and TV Personality, Dara Foster, will be joining us to answer all of your style questions! Dara is a world renowned Pet Fashion Stylist, TV Personality  and author best known for her humorous, "taste-making" pet style site PupStyle.com. @DaraFoster

If you’re thinking about adding a new four-legged friend to your family - the Petfinder Foundation will be available to answer questions about pet adoption! @Petfinder_fnd

We're also excited to have pet expert and public figure in the social media world, Steven Spitz joining us! Known as The Pet Man, Steven was recently featured on Pet Product News' Top 25 People in the Pet Industry To Watch list. @VeganPetman

Stay tuned for special giveaways before and during the party itself (we’ll be giving away goodies every 5-10 minutes!). Our awesome prizes include:

• Petfinder Foundation T-Shirts, stickers and bracelets
• PetHub ScruffTag Collars, Link Tags and memberships
• LIFE+DOG 1-year magazine subscription
• P.L.A.Y. Chill Pads
• $200 Gift Certificate towards a P.L.A.Y. pet bed from Big Apple Pet Supply

How to RSVP and Enter to Win:

First, make sure you follow your hosts, pet experts and sponsors on Twitter; @PetPlaySF, @Andrea_Arden, @DaraFoster,  @Petfinder_fnd, @VeganPetman, @PetHub and @LifeandDog.

Next, click on "Click Here to Enter" and input your info into the Linky tool below:

• In the field that says “Link Title or Blog Title,” just enter your @Twitter handle. (If you don’t have a Twitter Account, visit www.twitter.com to sign up - it’s fun and easy to join; best of all, it doesn’t cost a thing!)
• Include the URL to your twitter account in the next field  
• Make sure to enter your email address and name as well – if you win, that will give us multiple ways to notify you
• Press “Enter your link” – and voila! You’re RSVP’d!

Entrants must be 'present' at the Twitter Party to be eligble to win! You can keep track of the #WarmBellies conversation by using our TweetGrid!

*Contest open to US residents within the 48 contiguous states..

Are you a Blogger?

Help us spread the word about our Warm Bellies Initiative and Twitter Party! One blogger (selected at random) will win a set of Special Edition Chill Pads to donate to a shelter of their choice! To be eligible, write a blog post that includes:

• The date, time and hashtag for our twitter party (Tuesday, April 3^rd at 4PM PDT/7PM EDT, #WarmBellies). Include a link back to this page for RSVPs
• Information about our industry experts, prizes, and this blogger contest
• A link to our Warm Bellies page 

If you’d like, you can even copy and paste this whole post!

Make sure to link to your post on Facebook and Twitter (don’t forget to tag us!).  We’ll be announcing the winner at the Party – so make sure you RSVP and attend!

• Petfinder Foundation t-shirt, sticker and bracelet
• PetHub Link Tag and Silver membership
• LIFE+DOG 1-year magazine subscription
• P.L.A.Y. Chill Pad

How to Enter:

First, make sure you follow your hosts, industry experts and sponsors on Twitter; @PetPlaySF, @Andrea_Arden, @DaraFoster, @Petfinder_fnd, @PetHub and @LifeandDog.

Next, RSVP for our Twitter Party by clicking on "Click Here to Enter" and inputting your info into the Linky tool below:

• In the field that says “Link Title or Blog Title,” just enter your @Twitter handle. (If you don’t have a Twitter Account, visit www.twitter.com to sign up - it’s fun and easy to join; best of all, it doesn’t cost a thing!)
• Include the URL to your twitter account in the next field
• Make sure to enter your email address and name as well – if you win, that will give us multiple ways to notify you
• Press “Enter your link” – and voila! You’re RSVP’d!

Lastly, share our party with your friends and followers! Make sure to include the hashtag #WarmBelllies and you're automatically entered into a drawing. Here's an example you can use:

RSVP 4 @PetPlaySF's #WarmBellies #TwitterParty on 4/3 & enter 2 win great prizes 4rm @PetHub, @LifeandDog & More! http://bit.ly/ydceOW

We'll randomly pick a winner on Friday, 3/30. Tweet as many times as you'd like - the more tweets, the better your chances! Good luck!

In the upcoming months, we'll be heading to Houston (for the Collars for a Cause Gala and the Houston Pet Expo on April 13th and 14th), NJ (for the HH Backer Spring Show on April 18th), and even Germany (for Interzoo on May 20th)! It's no wonder my parents designed a Voyager Lounge Bed!

Isn't McGraw cute?

If you attend any of our upcoming shows, make sure to come say hi! I'll never pass up the opportunity to be ooohhhed and aaawwwed over. I'll try my best to be awake... but a girls gotta get her sleep.  Anything under 18 hours is unacceptable. Just sayin'.

xoxo, Momo

We've been fans of Boo the Pomeranian on Facebook for some time now - don't tell, but Momo has a SERIOUS crush on that little stud. He always looks dapper, and is totally on point. But out of the 26, our favorite definitely has to be the sloth. His secret to happiness is to have a "strong sense of self worth." Could it get any better than that?

Visit Buzzfeed to check out the full list! Which animal knows the secret to your happiness?

Thanks to everyone who entered our Puppy Love Prize Pack Giveaway! It was a lot of fun and we loved reading all of your comments. With over 600 entries, we are excited to announce our random drawing winner is...

LEAH A!

Congratulations, Leah! You and your pup have won:

• A super-comfy red Chill Pad from P.L.A.Y.
• A designer pet ID tag from Flash Gordon Designs
• A stylish new collar (and accessories) from Mimi Green
• Delectable treats from Signature Bonz!

We'd love to see pictures of your pup enjoying his prize pack after you've received everything! Thanks again to everyone who participated. Make sure to stay tuned for more awesome contests in 2012!

At some point we've all made a purchasing decision based on our pets. That's why we personally love the new ads that are marketed towards our dogs. Subaru is a great example - they are known for being super safe and dog-friendly. (Heck, one of our P.L.A.Y. team members even traded in her mustang for a Subaru after she got her four-legged family member.) Their new campaign "Dog Tested. Dog Approved" shows dogs doing normal, everyday human things - it's just so much more awesome seeing adorable pups doing them! LOL. Subaru's YouTube channel features 14 hilarious clips of pups camping, skiing, and even going through the drive thru. Our favorite by far is when two sweet dogs, get their parking spot stolen by the sneaky cat. (How dare he!?)

What about you? Do you have a favorite pet commercial? And have you made a purchasing decision, heavily influenced by your dog? We'd love to hear about it - leave us a comment below!

One random (and lucky) winner will receive our Puppy Love Prize Pack, which includes:

• A $50 Gift Certificate to pamper your pooch with a new stylish collar  (and collar accessories) from Mimi Green
• A $50 Gift Certificate to adorn your new collar with a designer pet ID tag from Flash Gordon Designs
• A $25 Gift Certificate to treat your furry friend to some delectable goodies from Signature Bonz
• A red Chill Pad from P.L.A.Y. for your pup to catch some zzz's in style

We’ve given you tons ways to get more entries, so make sure to do them all to increase your chances! Entries will be accepted through February 29^th - Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Chilling out on a Chill Pad! :)

Most ladies love getting flowers from their loved ones, including pups too! Ok, maybe not the same kind of flower that grows in a garden… but a super cute flower accessory to wear on a collar! Mimi Green creates amazing collars, leashes and accessories one-at-a-time, putting a lot of love and detail into each piece. Not to worry guys, there are awesome handmade bowties too! Get a leash and collar set to go with your new accessory, or dress up the one you already have. Either way, Mimi Green will make sure that your pup looks super adorable on V-Day! Accessories start at $7.95.

Now that you’ve got flowers and accessories, don’t forget jewelry! No, not diamonds or pearls… super cool 3D dog-tags Flash Gordon Designs takes the standard pet tag to a whole new level.  Designed using sophisticated computer models and constructed with 3D printing technology, Flash Gordon stainless steel tags are more than just durable and stylish, they’re really innovative.  Our favorite? The awesome 3D Heart design! For all of the diva dogs, each tag is also available in a gold-plated finish. Tags start at $39.99.

It’s a staple to treat your valentine to dinner or some nice chocolates. While pups obviously can’t have chocolate, you can always give your furry-friend a special treat! Signature Bonz specializes in all-natural, handmade dog treats – they currently have a ton of adorable Valentine’s Day themed gifts available.  From cookies to truffles to cannolis, Signature Bonz is sure to have something your pup will just eat up!  We especially love their play on the holiday favorite, conversation hearts! Treat boxes start at $5.99.

Some like to take their valentine on a fun weekend getaway. For road trips and travel, don't forget to bring along a comfy bed for your pup! What better way to show your dog that you love her, then to give her a good night's rest? Easily portable and super cozy, our red Chill Pad is perfect for the back of your car, inside of a crate or in a hotel room. Chill Pads start at $29.

How will you be spending the holiday? Leave us a comment below!

Depending on breed and activity level, most dogs average around 12-14 hours of sleep a day (including short naps)! Some breeds can even sleep up to 18 hours a day - that's two-thirds of their lives spent dreaming! Many factors contribute to the amount of sleep a pup will need or get; working dogs and very active dogs sleep less than sedentary ones, and as a pup gets older you can expect them to need more beauty rest. Some dogs sleep out of boredom - so make sure to give your pup plenty of stimulation. Whether playtime, a walk, or leaving some toys out, you can help keep your pup active and happy.

One might ask, why does a dog need so much sleep? While dogs have the same sleep pattern as us (Rapid Eye Movement - aka REM sleep - and slow wave sleep) they wake up much more often. They tend to get up, rearrange, and plop back down. Do you ever notice your pup barking, "running" or whining in her sleep? During REM sleep, the brain activity in dogs is similar to the dreaming sleep of humans - evidence that your pup is likely dreaming too! (I knew my pup was chasing squirrels in her dreams... lol!)

While you might not think dogs are very picky about where they sleep, you'd be surprised! Ever notice your pup circling and pawing at his bed before laying down? That's his natural instinct - he's trying to make his bed comfier and more "den-like" so that he has a little concave to sleep in. Often, it doesn't really make a difference - but it's still super cute to watch!

Make sure your pup gets the best sleep possible by giving her a peaceful resting place. Our luxury pet beds are super comfy and lofty - creating the perfect place to get some zzz's.

You can help us give homeless pets a better night's rest! With our Warm Bellies Initiative, we're working to donate Special Edition Chill Pads to rescue groups all around the country. Our Voter's Choice poll is now live - visit our Facebook Page to vote for your favorite shelter - they'll receive our first donation of dog mats!

Chinese New Year is one of our favorite holidays, it's just a great time with all of our family and friends. Momo particularly loves it, because she gets spoiled with yummy treats and a lot of time at the dog park!

From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Dragon!

Now through February 10^th, please visit the ballot and vote for P.L.A.Y. as Best Online Dog Boutique (question 46). We’ve got some tough competition, but we’re thrilled to be nominated alongside other great Bay Area companies.

We’re also really happy that some of our personal favorites are being recognized for their pawesome work as well! Among them:

• Grouchy Puppy (Nominated for Best Dog Blog): With a motto like "Give Fearlessly. Influence Positively." - how could you not love this blog? Miss Cleo is the inspiration behind Grouchy Puppy,  and we particularly love seeing pictures of  her adventures out and about in the Bay Area.
• Jeffrey’s Natural Pet Food (Nominated for Best Locally Made Dog Stuff): We believe that our pets are family members that deserve only the best. Jeffrey prepares locally sourced, handmade, fresh, and organic pet foods five days a week. The food contains only the highest quality ingredients: raw, free range meats free from hormones and antibiotics, fresh organic vegetables, vitamins and minerals.
• AnnaBee’s (Nominated for Best Dog Yappy Hour and Best Dog Friendly Bakery): An homage to sweet AnnaBee, a Hurricane Katrina survivor with a wonderful yest for life, this adorable boutique and doggie cafe was opened and named in her memory. On the menu: chicken pot pie, duck pate brisee, braised lamb, peanut butter & banana waffles and blueberry & yogurt waffles (just to name a few)... and that's just for the pups!
• K-9 Scrub Club (Nominated for Best Online Dog Boutique and Best Fresh Water Bowl): This adorable new scrub club is not your average dog wash. With a state-of-the-art bathing facility, your pup will feel like royalty here. Not only will she leave looking like a million bucks, she'll be treated like it too! To top it off, there are tons of treats and goodies available too. Think social club meets spa meets local boutique - just add dogs.
• Wag hotels (Nominated for Best Doggie Daycare, Best Overnight Boarder, Best Adult Dog Play group, and Best Dog Yappy Hour): Many dog owners have the same dilemna, who is going to watch my dog when I go on vacation/have to work all day? Enter Wag Hotels. With a goal to provide our "best friend with the ultimate experience during his or her stay," they ensure peace of mind knowing that our pets are safe, healthy and above all - happy!
• Jesse Freidin (Nominated for Best Dog Photographer): Awarded the 2010 and 2011 Best Dog Photographer in the Bay Area for his fine-art pet portraiture, Jesse is dedicated to a return to realness, to craftsmanship, and to lifting up the household dog to its rightful place as contemporary muse.
• Go Lucky Paws (Nominated for Best Dog Sitter): Bill Brobst has cared for friends' pets throughout his life - he loved it so much that he decided to open his own pet care business! He says, "You can rest assured I will take caring for your pets very seriously. I will do what ever it takes to make sure your pet is happy and safe while in my care." What more could you ask for?

Really, all of the nominees are fabulous - and we wish everyone the best of luck! Please make sure to vote for your favorites!

I heard a lot of gossip around the water dish about all of the divorces going on in Hollywood. For one, why were people so surprised that Kim Kardashian and Kris Humpries got divorced? It was so clear they weren’t suited for each other. I mean the height difference alone was insane! That would be like me dating a wolfhound. Not. Going. To. Happen.

And come on, 72 days is like a couple of years for dogs… give them a little credit. BOL.

Besides the breakups, there was also a lot of love in the air. Justin Timerberlake supposedly proposed to Jessica Biel around the holidays (I think that was after he found out that he isn’t my type). Also, the big to do last summer was of course the royal wedding (wedding of the century if you ask me… well, at least until I get married)! So classy and chic, the only thing that could have made it a little better was having a little furry, cinnamon bun tailed pup named Momo involved. They could have at least had the courtesy to ask me to be the flower girl. I would have made time. Hmph, their loss (they must’ve wanted to make sure that my dress didn’t upstage the bride).

It wouldn’t be a complete year without some celebrity meltdowns either. 2011 was clearly Charlie Sheen’s year. Not so winning if you ask me. Apparently he says he’s not crazy anymore. Would anyone sane need to declare that they aren’t crazy anymore? I don't think so.

And while I like to focus my annual recaps on gossip (you know, the important stuff) one of the biggies for 2011 was definitely Osama Bin Laden’s death. What’s even cooler about the scenario? The hero dog that helped bring him down. The dog’s participation brought on a lot of much deserved attention to our four-legged servicepups. My personal favorite is this amazing photo essay.  My paw salutes you!

And let's not forget the best thing of all - P.L.A.Y. had its first full year! And what a great one it was too! My dad has been hard at work creating all of these luxury pet beds! I've got more new beds to sleep on (he introduced new Lounge Beds and Chill Pads in 2011) and have been put to work for new products for 2012! I can't wait to see what this year brings!

Xoxo,

Momo

It's a rough Dog's Life.

In 2011 we attended many events and tradeshows; we were ecstatic to be so well-received - and all of the recognition and awards were just icing on the cake. Our first big milestone was being named one of Dr. Marty Becker's ten best in 2011 at the Global Pet Expo. Since then, we've been the recipients of a number of awards, including Pet Product News' Editor's Choice Award and most recently, Pet Business' Industry Recognition Awards. We're particularly proud of the latter because P.L.A.Y. was recognized as the company with most innovative and functional pet beds in the industry! Check out our In the News page to see all of the awards we've received to date.

In addition to tradeshows, we were so excited to participate at the MTV Movie Awards Style Lounge in June. At the Style Lounge, we met over a hundred dog-loving celebs who we asked to help us, help animals in need. Each celeb autographed one of two Celebrity Signature Pet Beds which we auctioned off to benefit the San Francisco SPCA. After 10 days, we raised $780 for homeless pets - to top it off, members of the P.L.A.Y. team pitched in to make the donatation an even $1,000!

This past year, we were proud to introduce two new product lines; our Chill Pads and Lounge Beds. Both collections have created a lot of buzz and were included in a number of Gift Guides for the 2011 holiday season. Not suprisingly, the products have been very popular and are some of P.L.A.Y.'s best-sellers! We have plans to introduce more designs and new products in the new year as well - stay tuned!

We've made so many new four-legged friends this year, and we particularly LOVE when their humans send in pictures of them! In September, we partnered with LIFE+DOG magazine for our first ever Model Search. Now, being dog lovers ourselves, we know how fun it is to photograph our pups, but we had no idea that we would get such an overwhelming response! We received over 200 submissions and thousands of votes in the course of just 11 days! While we wish all of the dogs could have won - Franklin (the super cute Corgi) was our voter's choice Grand Prize winner! He just had his photoshoot, so his ad will be in an issue of LIFE+DOG very soon! Keep your eyes peeled.

We also love receiving pictures of pups enjoying their P.L.A.Y. products! If you haven't already, please definitely send them our way (info@petplay.com). You can check out all of our happy tails on our Facebook Page or Testimonials page.

It's always been a priority for us to give back to animals in need. Throughout the year we've donated many items to support rescue and shelter groups around the country; but we wanted to help on a larger scale. That's why we were so excited to announce our new Warm Bellies Initiative with The Petfinder Foundation. For every Artist or Original Collection pet bed purchased on PetPlay.com (or at participating retailers) we will donate a Special Edition Chill Pad to a pup in need. We're just wrapping the first month of our initiative, and starting in January, we'll be asking our customers and fans to help decide which shelters receive the donations. Keep checking back for more info!

To say the least, it has been an exciting year! Again, we can't thank you enough for your support.

From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we wish you and your loved ones a new year filled with lots of love, laughter, and great memories (oh and puppy kisses too!).

Stay tuned, next week we'll be recapping all of our exciting news from 2011!

Check out this super cute infographic from Pet365. :)

This 12 dogs of Christmas graphic was produced by Pet365 - a UK stockist of brands like Hurtta and Hamish McBeth.

Remember last year's Christmas card? If not, here is a reminder:

I go along with it only because of one thing - the faster I agree to it, the faster I get treats and the faster I get praised and the faster I get to play. So really, it's a win win situation. Let's see what outfit I get put in this year. Who knows? Maybe I'll get to wear the same thing - it really wasn't THAT bad...

Xoxo, Momo.

If you know anyone that is crazy for pets, check out some of these gift ideas!

This Dog is Good gift set is sure to make everyone smile; it includes an 11oz. ceramic and a cozy sweatshirt that say, “It’s all Fun and Games Until Someone Ends up in a Cone.” We have featured Dog is Good before; we love their products, especially because they endorse ethical and socially responsible business practices, and of course, they love dogs as much as we do! The gift set is available at select stores nationwide and online, for $55.

A Custom pet portrait by Rebecca Collins is a very unique gift idea for pet lovers. To get a custom portrait, all you have to do is send a picture of your pup and the artists will create a masterpiece! Portraits range in price from $135-$1200, depending on style and size. Ordering custom portraits by Rebecca Collins is available online. 

This Envirosax bag is cute and functional! Instead of choosing between paper or plastic at the grocery store, give the gift of sustainability. These bags hold up to 44 lbs and are very portable. Envirosax is committed to helping the environment and they donate a percentage of their sales to charities and non-profit organizations. Gifting reusable bags are a great way to stay eco-friendly, they are very affordable at $10, available online.

If you know someone that hates to be away from his or her pet, this 4 Paws Forever custom paw print necklace is a great idea! The pendants are made out of solid gold, all you need to do is send a picture of the pup’s paw print, then your piece will be handcrafted just for you out of eco-friendly gold, the jewelry can even be engraved. Ranging from $230-$330, these pendants take about 5 days to make and are available to order online.

If you know of any more great gifts for the dog lover, let us know! We’d love to hear about it, leave a comment. Be sure to check our blog next week for another Festive Gift Guide Friday!

Kyjen’s dog puzzle games are sure to keep your pet entertained and will increase your pup’s mental stimulation. They will also help your pet exercise  his national instincts and problem solving abilites. These toys are Momo approved; check out the video to see it in action! The puzzle toys cost between $15-$23 and are available on Kyjen’s website and in stores nationwide.

If your pup has a lot of energy, Planet’s Dog Wood Chuck is the perfect toy for you! Made from recycled cork scraps and sustainable bamboo, it offers maximum chuck-ability for years of use. We love that it is eco-friendly and that a portion of every sale goes to organizations that help dogs in need! The Wood Chuck (the green ball is included!) is available at Planet Dog for $25.

Nylabone’s Dura Toy Quad Rope is fun AND good for your dog! It will keep your pet amused for hours while also improving your pup’s dental health! The toy features nylon nubs to clean your dog’s teeth and reduce tartar. It has a minty flavor that your dog will be sure to love and is made to last for years of play. It costs $30 and is available online or nationwide at any PetSmart store.

Does your pup have any of these toys? If so, what do they think? Leave us a comment below!

Make sure to check back next week when we will be showcasing Momo’s favorite dog treats!

Not only did I get to eat yummy goodness, I got to spend time with my BFFs Olivia and Charlie too! My super cute buddy Corbin was the best host ever - he shared his water dish and bed, AND he made sure we all had a good time! While the humans prepared our treats (Turkey! I told you Thanksgiving was possibly the best holiday ever), Olivia and I caught up on our gossip.

"Did you see the cowbelly on that pooch? She needs to lay off the treats..."

Charlie enjoyed some snuggles with my dad. And no, I didn't get jealous - in fact, I was the one who said it was ok.

On top of turkey, we got gourmet treats too! They put them right on my paw - all I had to do was look cute and I got all the yummies I wanted. (I mean, who can resist this face?) Overall, Thanksgiving was a BLAST. Can we do this every day?

Xoxo, Momo

This Tory Burch dog leash (they have collars too!) is fabulous and will make any pup feel like royalty. Made out of braided cotton with leather accents, the leash is 60” long, and features gold hardware. Available online for $95, the leash comes in two colors, Tory Navy or Hot Orange – whichever you chose, both you and your pup will be glad you splurged!

We love these adorable Mascot dog scarves! If your pup isn’t keen on wearing sweaters or coats these scarves are a great alternative. They come in 4 colors (all reversible to navy) and are priced at $18. The scarf has pull-through construction and can be fitted to any dog. 

Coach offers a wide variety of gorgeous pet accessories, but we particularly love this one! The Coach Signature Collar is beautifully crafted for years of use by your pup. It comes with an adorable fire hydrant charm and features leather trimmed signature fabric. For the perfect fit, the $68 collar is available in sizes small through large and features an adjustable buckle closure. The classic silver, khaki and mahogany colors are a great match for any style or fur. 

This eco-friendly Dog Coat, available on Etsy, is made out of recycled and repurposed wool fabrics. We love that it’s not only stylish, but green too! It can be tailored to fit any sized dog and is  sure to keep your pet warm and comfy during the cold months. Priced at $65, this adorable coat is available in plaid.

Stay tuned for more great gift ideas with pets in mind! 

She wishes you, your loved ones and your BFFs a very Happy Thanksgiving!

These golden retriever puppies are adorable-but yet mishchievous! We love how they work together and wait for the perfect time to "play" with the cat. When your pups were younger, did they cause a lot of trouble, or did they behave well and get along with other pets? We'd love to hear about it, leave a comment (cute puppy pics welcome), have a great weekend! 

Turkey Loaf Dinner Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground turkey
• 1/2 cup cooked peas and carrots
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup canned low-fat gravy

Preparation:

• Grease a loaf pan; set aside.
• In a large bowl mix turkey, vegetables, eggs and rice. Put into pan.
• Pour the gravy over the loaf and bake in a preheated oven at 350° for 1 hour or until nicely browned on top.
• Cool and serve.

If you’re cooking-illiterate, you can always treat your pup to a yummy pre-made treat too. We’re big fans of Buttercups Paw-tisserie - they have great treats and some made just for autumn! Whether you decide to bake our buy, we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

How do you include your pup in the festivities? Leave us a comment below!

One of our favorite pics of Momo! What do you think she's saying? Caption this and leave a comment below!

We cannot get enough of these heartwarming homecoming videos; it's amazing how dogs never forget their best friend and how excited they get when they are finally reunited. If you have a story about a troop reuniting with their pup, we would love to hear it!! Enjoy the videos and have a great weekend.

Molly the dog reunites with her Air Force Captain Mom just home from Afghanistan.

Gracie sees her Dad after coming home from Afghanistan

A dog hugs his owner after coming home from Iraq.

With autumn finally here, the colder weather brings some unexpected hazards for your pup. To help ensure you and your pets enjoy the season, we wanted to share some pet safety tips for fall! 

To help with the colder weather, many car owners need to put anti-freeze or engine coolant in their car. Since the coolant tastes sweet, many animals can’t resist it - but it is extremely harmful to pets; it is fast acting and can result in death in as little as four hours! If you suspect your pet has ingested coolant, call your vet right away! Even when you aren’t using it, make sure you store it in a safe place where pets can’t reach. Also, dispose of old anti-freeze in a sealed container and if you see a spill, clean it up immediately!

If you enjoy taking your pet for long walks through the wilderness, be extra cautious in autumn. Fall is mushroom season and even though most are harmless, some are highly toxic and can cause life-threatening problems. Try to keep pets on trails and away from potentially dangerous plants. It is getting darker earlier, so if you walk your pet at night take extra caution and have your pet wear reflective collars or use reflective leashes.  It’s also hunting season, so make sure to wear bright clothing and ensure that your pup stays close to you. Stay visibile and safe!

Our last tip for fall conditions is: keep your pet warm! Indoor pets not used to fall conditions should not be left outside for extended amounts of time. Make sure they stay warm by purchasing jackets—they are cute AND functional! If you keep your pet outdoors, make sure he has a shelter for unpleasant weather and some sort of insulation to keep him warm (P.L.A.Y. beds work great!). Also, your pup needs more food during the colder months to generate the necessary body heat needed to stay warm - so make sure to feed him a little more than usual.

Fall is one of our favorite times of the year and we hope you and your pets enjoy it as much as we do! Stay safe and have fun playing in the leaves. Special thanks to all of our fans who posted adorable pictures of their dogs enjoying the fall - we could not have written this without you! 

Our Big Bone convertible Pillow/Blanket makes a great gift for both people and pets alike! It's a fantastic for traveling - the pillow makes a great neck rest and when you get cold (which is almost guaranteed on an airplane) you can unzip the super-soft fleece blanket! Another feature? If it ever gets dirty, just pop the whole thing in the washer and dryer!

Momo particularly loves getting all comfy and snuggly in the blanket.

Thanks to Pet Product News for the wonderful honor! And thanks again to our customers and fans! You guys are the best :)

We could not resist sharing this video! After getting into a sticky situation, hopefully this pup learned its lesson and won’t try taking a bath in the toilet again. All dogs get into trouble from time to time (some more than others), this one knows all about misbehaving now! Do any of your animals like to cause mischief on occasion? If you have a funny story involving your pup, we would love to hear about it, leave a comment. Have a fun weekend! 

Momo had a blast playing with her buddies, Emma and Deagen (the famous surfing frenchie)! Thanks to their mama, Stephanie, for sharing this great photo.

She doesn't look very thrilled, does she? But man... she sure makes an adorable tortoise!

To ensure you have a fun Halloween, make sure your pup stays safe! Here are a few tips:

• Do not let your pup have ANY candy! While it's okay to give him a few treats (of the doggy kind) for doing some tricks, make sure to avoid chocolate and candy. Even sugar-free candy that's sweetened with xylitol can be trouble. If you think your pup has eaten something toxic, call your vet right away! You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
• Often times, costumes and constant doorbell-ringing can freak your pup out - literally. If she gets uncomfortable, make sure to keep her in a separate room during trick-or-treating hours. 
• If your pup is socialized and comfortable enough to help you hand out candy, make sure your pup is on leash or has perfected his "stay" command. You don't want to him bolt out of the door!
• Make sure your pup has up-to-date contact info on her ID collar - losing your pet is an awful way to spend Halloween.

If you do dress up your pup, make sure the costume is comfy and doesn't have any loose parts that could be accidently swallowed.

Are you and your pup(s) dressing up? We'd LOVE to see -post a photo on our Facebook Page!

From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we wish you a very Happy (and safe) Halloween!!

Happy Howl-oween! In the spirit of the upcoming holiday, we had to share this funny video with you! Does your pup enjoy dressing up for Halloween? If so, leave a comment with a photo or video, we'd love to see it. Have a fun and safe weekend!  

Everytime I stick out my tongue, you will give me treats...

You will never think there is a cuter pug than me...

When I bark, you will say "yes, Princess Momo?"

When I snap my fingers... I mean paws... I mean...

oh whatever! Just wake up already. I'm hungry.

Dogs are great at learning new tricks, especially Zeke! Who would have thought a four-legged pup could learn to play basketball?! If you've taught your pup any special tricks, we'd love to hear about it; post a video or picture, or just leave us a comment. Have a great weekend everyone! 

Caption this!

At the HH Backer Show, Dad spotted a whole pack of two-legged pups hanging out on our beds!

One of our friends sent in this pic of her adorable two-legged grandpup sneaking a nap!

And check out this two legged pup relaxing in a P.L.A.Y. Tunnel. Man he sure is cute, but buddy, you're supposed to run through it!

I knew Dad was onto something...

Xoxo, Momo.

Happy weekend everyone! We love how happy this pup is while celebrating his birthday, he doesn’t seem afraid of those balloons at all. What do you do to celebrate your dog’s birthday? Does she get a new toy, a special treat, or maybe an extra long walk? Leave us a comment; we would love to hear about it!

Even though Momo would much rather go au naturale, we couldn't say no to this adorable corduroy jacket from Sam & Tasha! Super cute, huh?

After a long day of playing, Momo passed out on one of P.L.A.Y.'s new luxury pet beds - the Bamboo Lounge Bed available on October 24th!

Our fave? Obviously, this beyond adorable pug.

If you think your pup has her own Tiny Confession, Christoper can custom create one for you! Premade prints range from $12-$20 and are available on Etsy.

In the spirit of Halloween, there are a couple of prints expressing the confessions of spooky characters too. This one makes us laugh every time we see it!

What a great way to get into the holiday spirit! LOL. For Halloween, make sure to check out our special SFyline edition. We offer both duvets and beds, so let your pup get festive this howl-oween too!

What about your pup? Is she a water dog? Leave us a comment or send us a photo! We’d love to hear about it. Have a great weekend! 

Even exhausted, she still does her signature move.

• Pet Food. A leftover can of wet food your pup hated. All of those sample bags you get from attending pet events. Or even, just going out and buying a bag from your local grocery store.
• Toys. My pup's toy chest looks like its overly full and ready to tip over. Many of the items in there she doesn't even want anymore (or never liked in the first place). Hey, someone's trash is someone else's treasure.
• Bedding. What do you do with the old bed that you replaced with an awesome new designer dog bed? You donate it! Just make sure to wash the cover first :).
• YOUR TIME! Many of these pups just crave personal attention. Often, shelters and rescue groups are short handed and staff members pread their time thinly. By volunteering, you're giving a needy pup the walk that he's been dying for, the belly scratch that he misses so much, or just the nose nudge that makes him feel loved.

This October, please remember all of the shelter dogs that need our help! And if you ARE in the market for a new family member, Pedigree said it best, "Don't pity a shelter dog, adopt one!"

For Momo, this is her beloved Kygen Squirrels in a Log toy. That girl can spend hours sticking her head in that stuffed log, searching for squeeky, squirrel treasure.

Now all of us have come home to find what looks like a cloud explosion in our living room. We've all been upset, but have held back laughter and smiles when our pup gives us the "I don't know what you're talking about" look. But did you ever think that the dirty, crusty, smelly, destroyed toy... could be art? No? Us either.

Introduce Chewed by Arne Svenson and Ron Warren. After spending years photographing sock monkeys for a previous book, they were surprised when their friend's pup greeted them happily with her beloved chewed up sock monkey. This display of love was the inspiration for their new book, Chewed. They decided to photograph "portraits of chewed toys as seen through the eyes of the adoring chewer." 

This insanely adorable book tells the story of dozens of beloved toys. Sometimes the story comes from owners, sometimes from pets, and sometimes even from the toy itself! Brilliant.

Our personal favorite? SQUIRREL: A CAUTIONARY TALE... - by Andrew Zimmern. In the pup's own words, "I knew I wanted to eat it. Why wouldn't I? I had joyfully devoured this primeval delicacy years before, in the hollers of West Virginia and yeah, it was really f***ing good. Never shy away from a plump squirrel, that's my motto."

For a sneak peek of the book, check out the Chewed website. But trust us, you'll want to see the rest of the 140 hilarious photos. Chewed is available for $24.95 at your local book store or on Amazon.com.

Does your pup have a gross, chewed up toy? (C'mon, you know she does.) We'd love to see! Post your photos on our Facebook page!

First, get yourself bathed and groomed. Stinky is not a fashion statement. I mean, look at Mickey Rourke – one day the guy is fashion model worthy, the next he’s jacked up and looking like a pro wrestler. (Downgrade).

Second, practice your poses! As Tyra Banks always says, “smile with your eyes.”  (Wait, you’ve never heard that? Oh. Em. Gee. Quickly, go back and watch all ten zillion seasons of America’s Next Top Model.) Go ahead, try it. Not like that… no, you’re doing it wrong. Wow – do I have to show you everything?  Here is the perfect model face – I call it my Pooch Steel.

Third, find a signature move. Sure there are tons of pugs in the world – but there is only one that always sticks her tongue out and is named Momo. Yep – that’s copyrighted, so don’t go sticking your tongue out now.

Fourth, get your beauty sleep! You need 15-16 hours AT THE LEAST. No one wants to see you if you're off of your game - or if you have a ton of crusty sleep in your eyes.

Lastly, don’t always look at the camera. I like to look off to the side and look like I’m really yearning for something - you know, like world peace or something. To get that look – I think about bacon. Works everytime.

 Make sure to check out other puppy models for tips too – I personally LOVE Isabella (that girl is the Heidi Klum of puppy modeling) and am so jealous of her gorgeous hair. Hm... do you think they can put extensions in mine?

Now, take these suggestions and go work it! Good luck!

xoxo, Momo

Amelia Santiago from Portland Oregon, makes beautiful wool sculptures of dogs, cats, and other animals commissioned by passionate pet owners.

These unique one-of-a-kind gifts are created using a technique called needle felting - she sculpts the fibers as one would sculpt clay. Ah-mazing!! Each piece is crafted out of 100% wool and on average takes about 20 hours to complete. With no patterns, thread or sewing involved, Amelia takes your pictures and creates your pet's likeness by paying close attention to detail.

Prices are based on size, breed, coat and markings - you can even add fun extras like toys, collars or even crowns! Check out Amelia Makes Art to place an order or to see more of her work.

Now, ten years later, it is so important for us to look back and to never forget. Never forget the 2,976 souls we lost that day. Never forget the thousands of people who came together to help during our country's time of great despair. Never forget the servicemen and women who worked relentlessly to bring hope and healing.

On the tenth anniversary of 9/11, it’s also important that we never forget those that are often forgotten - the 300 search and rescue dogs that worked tirelessly to bring comfort and closure. As a heartfelt memorial, Kenn Bell, creator of the Dog Files, compiled this beautiful montage to commemorate the four-legged heroes.

Kenn truly says it best, " ...300 of them proved, without a doubt, that they were indeed man’s best friend."

NEVER FORGET.

• Don't make it a big deal when you leave - your dog can sense your anxiety for leaving, so if you're relaxed it will help fido relax. If possible, turn on a radio or tv for background noise.
• If your dog is food motivated, play hide-n-seek! If your dog has free roam of your house, leave little treats in random spots (I like to put some under my dog's bed, underneath throw pillows, etc.) and have him forage for food throughout the day!
• Leave something to keep your pup occupied! We love interactive toys like Kyjen's Puzzle Toys. (Momo loves the squirrels in a tree). 

• If your dog gets seperation anxiety, keep her in a smaller area. Whether a crate or laundry room - many dogs feel safe in smaller sheltered area. If your pup isn't crate trained - don't start the same day as back to school... you're just going to create additional anxiety. If you're going to be gone for a long stretch of time, ask someone to come let your pup out. It's not fair to keep her confined for so long without access to the bathroom.
• Try a doggy day care! This is such a GREAT way to keep your dog socialized and to wear him out! Before dropping your pup off, make sure to check to do your research. A doggy day care should be clean and spacious and have enough trained professionals to handle the rowdy group. When you dog comes home he should be happy and content, not anxious and stressed.
• Finally, don't make it a big deal when you come home. Parents make sure to have your kids for your pup to settle down before greeting him. This can take a few minutes - but after awhile, your pup will get the routine and will be excited (and relaxed) when the kids come home.

How does your dog cope with you leaving? Leave us a comment below!

The program is pretty simple and straight forward. You write a blog post, you help a dog. Last year alone, 391 bloggers participated and for every post, Pedigree donated 20 pounds of its Healthy Longevity dog food to shelter animals. In all, 7,820 pounds of food was donated to two shelters renowned for their care of senior dogs: Muttville Senior Dog Rescue in San Francisco and Castaway Critters in Harrisburg, Pa.

Want to help? Houston Dog Blog tells us how:

Simply spread the word about Write a Post, Help a Dog 2011 and once again Pedigree will donate 20 pounds of food for each blogger's post.  Here's all you need to include in your post: 

• The Write a Post, Help a Dog program is aimed at raising awareness and food for the more than four million dogs that wind up in shelters and breed rescues each year.
• For each blog post mentioning the Pedigree Foundation from now until midnight ET on September 3, Pedigree will donate 20 pounds of its new dry Pedigree recipe food for dogs -- its best recipe ever -- to a shelter, because every dog deserves leading nutrition. 
• The Pedigree Foundation -- a 501 (C)(3) nonprofit organization is committed to helping dogs by providing grants to shelters and rescues and encouraging dog adoption. This year the Foundation has already raised more than $376,570 against its goal of $1.5 million to carry out its work to fund grants that not only help shelters operate, but to further shelter innovations.

The Pedigree Foundation depends on charitable contributions from individuals to carry out its mission to help dogs find loving homes. In addition to writing a blog post, here's how you can help:

• Donate online at http://pedigreefoundation.org/donate.aspx
• Apply for a shelter grant from the Pedigree Foundation by completing a form at www.pedigreefoundation.org
• Purchase Dogs Rule Gear at www.dogsrulegear.com where the proceeds go to the Pedigree Foundation to help loving dogs find a home. SPECIAL OFFER: Get 10 percent off Dogs Rule Gear by using the promo code BlogPaws10 from August 22 - September 30.

Once you've written your most - make sure to link it to the Blog Hop below.

Enter here!

Today, on my drive home from the coffee shop I saw a lost dog running around – with my fear of losing my own dog, I couldn’t just let him (or her) run around on the street.Unfortunately, when I got out of my car to get a closer look, the pooch got spooked and ran away. After a depressing 15 minute search, I couldn’t find him. To ease my worry, I’m thinking (and really hoping) he ran home.

But here’s the question I post to you: What would you do if you found a lost dog?

Here are a few tips:

• Approach the dog carefully and calmly. If you have food with you, now’s a good time to share. Remember, a frightened dog can act unpredictably and even bite or run. (Similar to my situation today…)
• If you’re able to reach the pup, check to see if she has tags or tattoos (often in ears or inner legs).
• If you’re not able to, call your local animal control agency to help.
• Take the dog to your local shelter or pound. I know this is hard for many dog lovers (because we all fear the awful E word, “euthanize”) – however think about it. Where is the first place you would look for your dog? The shelter or pound.  If you’re like me, just fill out a found dog report and then take the pup home to foster while his owners are found.
• Ask the shelter to check for a microchip. (What many owners don’t know is that once scanned, the microchip doesn’t provide any info – the scanner has to call the microchip company, who then tries to contact the owner.)
• Make some FOUND DOG signs and post them while also looking for LOST DOG signs.
• If someone calls you – ask them to describe the dog and any unique traits it may have (spot on ear, scar on leg, etc.)

Hopefully all of these steps will lead to a happy reunion! If the owner offers a reward, consider asking them to donate to local rescues or shelters.

Remember; don’t automatically assume the pet you found is a stray – assume that she is a loved family member waiting (and wanting) to go home.

Do you have any stories about finding a pup? We’d love to hear them – leave a comment below!

The winner will receive our Big Bone pillow cushion, a Latch-lock Cycle Dog collar, a frozen treats kit from Freezy Pups, a gift set from Papergirl Designs and (5) SmartLink Tags from PetHub (which includes a 1-year Silver membership to PetHub)!

We’ve given you tons of options on how to get more entries – make sure to do them all to increase your chances! Entries will be accepted through August 31^st - Good luck!

This summer has definitely been a hot one! During the dog days it is SO important to keep your pup cool, happy and safe! (Side note: did you know that the dog days are “the hottest, most sultry days of summer”? Me neither!) A couple months ago, we told you about our favorite yummy treats for pups on warm sunny days – one of our faves? Freezy Pups’ frozen treats! Whether your dog has a sweet tooth or loves the salty stuff, Freezy Pups makes it easy to give your pup a gourmet, organic summer treat! In addition to White Cheddar, Chicken Soup and Sweet Potato ‘n Maple, Freezy Pups just introduced their newest flavor – Juicy Apple! Sounds so good, I might just sneak one for myself!

The awesome folks over at Freezy Pups are giving the lucky winner of our Pawesome Prize Pack a Freezy Pups Kit which includes a super cool bone-shaped ice cube tray and a sample pack of all four flavors!

The last item on our list is more for your dog’s best friend… YOU! If you’re like me, you sign every greeting card with your name AND your dog’s (she is part of the family after all)! More often than not, I also find myself making cards for my pup to give to my significant other on birthdays and holidays (she wants to say “Happy Father’s Day” too!). Recently we came across Papergirl Designs and their whole line of fun dog-themed wrapping paper, greeting cards and gift tags – SO cute and stylish, they’re sure to warm any dog lover’s heart (whether you’re giving or receiving!). The designs are fresh, the products are high quality and the materials are eco-friendly! We love!

For our Pawesome Prize Pack, the lucky winner will receive an entire set of Papergirl products! Cards, note cards, wrapping paper, AND gift tags! (Make sure to send us a ‘thank you’ using one of the cards! Just joking of course… :).

Check back tomorrow for instructions on how to enter! The contest is open from August 12^th through the 31^st – Good luck!!

According to the ASPCA, approximately 5-7 million companion pets enter animal shelters nationwide EVERY year. Of that number, less than 2% of cats and less than 20% of dogs are returned to their owners (some organizations even estimate that number to be 1% of cats and 12% of dogs). So let’s think about that number… out of 7 million pets, less than 1.5 million return home. Absolutely. Heartbreaking.

To help keep your pet safe and your mind at ease, the first two items in our Pawesome Prize Pack Giveaway focus on tagging and IDing your pet!

In today’s day and age, you would think it’s easier to have your pet ID’ed. Did you know that only 3-5% of pets are micro-chipped? Of that number, less than 50% have up-to-date information! With technology how it is, it should be easier to keep your info current. Introduce PetHub. The smart people over at PetHub created a complete solution for protecting an animal from the moment it becomes lost: PetHub’s SmartLink™ Tags display an animal’s critical information when its QR code is scanned with an iPhone, Android, or other internet enabled device. What’s a QR code you ask? It’s short for Quick Response – meaning, you scan it using an application on your smart phone or tablet, and voila! The information from the QR code is displayed on your screen. Quite brilliant actually. Check out this awesome video explaining how the whole PetHub process works.

If you’re like me – there’s a good chance you have multiple collars for your dog. One for adventures (hiking, camping, etc.), one for every day use, and one for special occasions – and if I were being completely honest, I would tell you that I don’t have a tag on every collar. Again, enter PetHub. For our Prize Pack, they are giving one lucky winner 5 (count them people, 5) SmartLink Tags for each of your collars! They are also throwing in a 1-year Silver-level membership* to PetHub, which includes:

• PetHub Alert system – alert shelters within a given zip code that your pet has gone missing
• Email notifications for when your pet’s ID tag is scanned by smartphone (iPhone, Android, Blackberry, etc.)
• Data storage of your pet’s information (medication, vaccination records, dietary needs, emergency contacts, sitters, etc.)
• 500+ articles on the care, feeding, and raising of your animal

Now that you have tags for your pet, you need a collar! The second item in our Pawesome Prize Pack comes from Cycle Dog. In the past, we’ve told you how much we love their collars, but we just can’t get enough of them!

 We particularly love products that keep Mother Nature in mind – as you know it’s also one of our main goals to make eco-friendly products. When we saw Cycle Dog’s collars and leashes at our local pet boutique – we were in love. With a goal to create green (and amazing) products that raise awareness to the millions of bike tubes thrown into landfills every year, how could you not love them!? To top it off, not only do Cycle Dog products look great, some of the collars also have a Pup Top® Bottle Opener Leash Attachment. Yes, you read that right folks, a bottle opener leash attachment! My dog gets to look great, the planet has a few less bike tubes in it AND I can open my bottle of root beer (yep, that’s my drink of choice).  To make sure that your dog has a collar for his/her new tags, Cycle Dog has kindly offered one of their red Latch-Lock collars for our Pawesome Prize Pack winner!

The Latch-lock collars feature Cycle Dog’s patent pending airline seatbelt style buckle. Strength tested at over 500lbs, it is the thinnest, lightest, and strongest quick release metal buckle available. Paired with the Pup Top™ bottle opener, it is the ultimate collar for Human’s Best Friend! For dog's best friend, Cycle Dog also makes belts and apparel for humans! So cool!

Stay tuned for Part 2, we'll be featuring the remaining items in our Pawesome Prize pack! And remember, you can enter to win all of the awesome prizes this Friday!

When we were designing the new Chill Pads we wanted to make sure they were up to our standards:

• They had to be stylish: So we created four vibrant colors and made them available in four different sizes (we’ve also got a fifth color and size on the way)!
• They had to be universal:  The pads feature a top layer with ultra-fine plush and a faux suede bottom; keeping furry tummies toasty in the winter and cool in the summer - perfect for relaxing and chilling.
• They had to be eco-friendly: Like all of our beds, the new Chill Pads are filled with the perfect amount of our super-soft PlanetFill™ made from recycled plastic bottles.
• And they had to be functional: Each of our dual-tone mats will not only add vibrance to your decor but they are also more dirt-resistant than the mats available on the market today. You can even put the whole thing in the washer and dryer!

And voila! They were even Momo approved – make sure to check them out and give your pup a new favorite place to chill!

What's one of the prizes, you ask? Well, in addition to all of the great items, we're including one of our Big Bone convertible pillows! Make sure to visit our blog next week for information on how to enter. Good luck!

Doesn't Momo look adorable, just chilling? Our new Chill Pads are launching NEXT week! Make sure to sign up for our newsletter by creating an account to get a super special deal!

By now, Momo is so used to having her photo taken. Check out her model pose here (Sneak Peek of our upcoming Lounge Beds!), she's got her "blue steel" down cold! Soon we're going to have to fight off the paw-parazzi!

Here's Momo with her new BFF, Denise Richards. Yes, that is really Denise Richards - we were so excited to meet her! She  has a pug of her own, so when she saw Momo it was puppy-love at first sight. :)

Next month, we're headed to SuperZoo in Las Vegas - who knows who we're going to meet there!

We’d like to sincerely thank all of our animal-loving friends and the kind-hearted celebrities that helped us raise money for animals in need. We really appreciated everyone who shared our auction on Facebook, tweeted about it on Twitter, wrote a blog post for their readers and just helped spread the word! And a HUGE thank you to our auction winner - we hope you enjoy your new designer dog beds!

We are SO excited to announce that in just 10 days our auction raised over $750 for the SF SPCA! Additionally, P.L.A.Y.’s team members are contributing to that amount and will be raising it to $1000! The auction was a great success and we couldn’t have done it without everyone's help. You all deserve a big round of apaws!

Stay tuned, we're working on more ways to give back. Chances to donate and help animals in need are just around the corner!

BID NOW!

There are only FOUR days left to bid on one of our Celebrity Signature pet beds from the MTV Movie Awards Style Lounge. Get a one-of-a-kind pet bed autographed by stars from The Office, Twilight, Entourage and Love and Other Drugs (including many more!), while also helping animals in need. Remember, 100% of the proceeds will go to benefit the SF SPCA!

BID NOW!

We’re in Atlanta at AmericasMart until tomorrow, then we’re off to celebrate Christmas in July in the Big Apple!

This weekend, we’ll be up in the Seattle area too! You can find us at Go Dog, Go! on Saturday in Kirkland, then we’ll be cruising the Puget Sound for Dog Day on Elliot Bay with CityDog Magazine for their annual MuttMixer. Luxury cruise on the water, followed by a delicious salmon barbecue on the beach? YES PLEASE!

On August 6-9th, you can find P.L.A.Y. exhibiting at the San Francisco International Gift Fair! Located at the Moscone Center, the gift fair will feature a wide variety of products and is the largest of its kind in California. Being based in San Francisco, we are so excited to showcase our line of luxury dog beds in our hometown. Come check out the show and make sure to stop by booth number 2154 to say hi!

The following weekend, we’ll be presenting our award-winning dog beds at the Seattle Gift Show from August 13-16^th! Located at the Washington State Convention Center, visitors can view thousands of product lines from Gifts & Collectibles and Handcrafted to Home & Garden, Food Focus, Personal Style, Northwest Directions and more! Make sure to stop by booth number 1701 and say hi!

Later in August, we’ll be traveling to Virginia for the third annual BlogPaws conference! We’re so excited to mingle with fellow pet bloggers/lovers and share our new product lines!

Summer rounds off for us in Las Vegas (great way to end the season, huh?) at SuperZoo. Known as THE place to see the latest trends in pet products, we’re excited to be there September 13-15^th for our first SuperZoo experience. We’ll be showing off our newest lines of designer dog beds, so make sure to come see us! More information to come soon.

All of these events, makes for a sleepy (and happy) Momo.

If we’re not in your area, let us know of the shows you love… who knows? We might be there next year!

At the recent MTV Movie Awards Style Lounge, we asked celebs to autograph two of our pet beds to help animals in need. Beginning today at 9:00am PT both beds will be auctioned off, with 100% of the proceeds going to benefit the SF SPCA. Give your pet a one-of-a-kind pet bed and help save animals at the same time! To bid, visit our eBay auctions now!

But I’ve gotta admit... as comfy as my crate and the Chill Pad were, I sure was glad to feel my paws on concrete again. The first few days back have been a whirlwind... lots of butt sniffing with four-legged friends in the neighborhood, cuddles and kisses from two-legged ones, and best of all being reunited with Dad again. Mom and I were pretty jet-lagged for the first couple of days and Dad took a rather unflattering picture of me while I was half asleep.

Disclaimer: This is NOT an accurate representation - I really do look much better in real life.

After three straight 16-hour sleep days, Mom started complaining about how unproductive her days have been. I don’t know what all the fuss is about - sounds like a regular week to me.

So far, everything has been awesome. The humans here are really friendly. All I have to do is stick my tongue out, act cute and voila! Treats in my belly.

Could you resist this face? I don't think so!

Another great thing about being back in San Francisco? The car rides! I love sticking my head out and feeling my ears flap in the wind. I get from point A to point B without having to move at all! How awesome is that?!

Best of all, I now have countless beds and mats to choose from. Round ones, square ones, flat ones, you name it. Hmmm I wonder what’s up next...  you never know with Dad always thinking up crazy new ideas.

Yeap, life back in the city is good and I’m soooooooooo glad to be back!

Xoxo, Momo

What's fun about playing by yourself? Not much! Check out Ferris helping out his girl, Dot, escape from her kennel!

Nevar and Elessar show us that sharing truly is caring. Kind of reminds us of the Disney movie, Lady and the Tramp.

This poor little girl got ratted out by her siblings! We love how she tried to sneak out "unnoticed."

Got a quirky pack? Tell us about them - leave a comment below!

What's up?

Fireworks frighten a lot of dogs – we’ve all heard the story about the dog that dug under the fence, jumped out the window, or chewed through the wall because he was scared. Did you know that more dogs run away on the 4^th of July than any other day of the year? To make sure your dog isn’t one of them, here are a few tips.

• Don’t take your dog with you to any firework festivities. All of us want to include our four-legged family members, but the loud squealing and bangs often trigger the flight instinct in dogs.
• Keep your pup in a quiet area. Turn the TV or radio on to distract from any outside noise and keep a water bowl accessible.
• Make sure your dog is tagged. If you don’t have her microchipped – make sure to do so for next year! In the meantime, make sure she has a collar on and your contact info on her ID tag.
• Get your pup a Thundershirt. They help with a wide variety of symptom like shaking, panting, barking, whining, “accidents”, clawing, digging and many others! Easy to use and drug-free, Thundershirts have an 85% success rating AND a money back guarantee – it’s definitely worth a shot. Check out this video for some more info.

• Never leave your pup unattended outside – remember the story about the dog that dug his way out of the yard? You DON'T want this to happen to you.
• If your dog has SUPER anxiety, talk to your vet. Sometimes, depending on the severity, they can prescribe sedatives to help.

Remember, Independence Day is supposed to be FUN - coming home to a missing pet is anything but.

From all of us at P.L.A.Y., we hope you and your families have a very happy AND safe 4^th of July!

Up next for us: We’ve currently got new products in the works and will be sharing more information about them VERY soon. Also, our Celebrity Signature beds (that feature over 100 celeb autographs) will be auctioned off in the next couple of weeks. Keep checking back for more details.

In the meantime, we would like to sincerely thank all of our customers and fans for helping P.L.A.Y. get off the ground! To think, it all started with a little picky pug named Momo.

To tell you the truth, I’m super uber excited about this move. It’s happening real soon I can tell. My mom has already been bringing me to the vet to get all my health certificates in order and the vet here (she’s nice but not as nice as Dr. Wong of the Blue Cross Animal Hospital SF) has been poking my tummy and feeling my heartbeat and telling mom that I’m “all set to go”. And my mom has been crazy pottering about the apartment these couple of days putting piles and piles of clothes away in boxes. The last time this happened, before I knew it, I was on a loooong flight. So, I’m pretty sure it’s gonna be the same this time too.

For the trip, mom got me a nice big airy crate so that I can see the world outside in 4 corners and it’s super spacious. I can curl up and sleep in a fur ball or I can stretch on all 4 fours and chill out. I even get to lie on the all new Chill Pad (a cool product my dad has been busy working on) which is super duper soft and comfy. To be honest, I think I’m going to have it better than the other humans upstairs in the passenger cabin. I heard they are all packed like sardines (mmm... sardines....) and can only stay in one position pretty much the entire journey.

My mom has been looking kinda anxious these days and she’s been stroking my tummy and purring about how brrraaavve I’m gonna be. Like duh. The last time I slept all the way and totally rolled out like a trooper.

So anyway, more updates to come real soon about my journey across the Great Pacific. I can’t wait to come home to San Francisco as you can tell. Yippppeeeeeee!!!

xoxo, Momo

"Today, I sniffed 3 new dogs, ate something that resembled a potato chip, rode in the car, napped on my new bed, ate peanut butter out of a kong, took a nap in the car, played with my human, did a trick for some treats, took a nap on the couch, chased my tail, and now I'm ready for another nap."

We recently came across these videos and we couldn't help but smile. Happy Momo Monday!

For those of you who don't watch a lot of TV, this commercial made us BOL (yes, that is "Bark Out Loud"). Favorite part? The owner sticking up for his pup, "You're not weird! You're an innovator!"

This poor girl had to wear the cone of shame after having surgery on her head. But sweet Lucy didn't let that get her down! While she had some troubles going up the stairs at first... she overcame the obstacle and got upstairs! We're so proud of you, Lucy! :)

But most "inspiring dog" definitely has to go to Ricochet. Sweet Ricochet was training to be a service dog, when her natural instincts to chase birds and little animals kicked in - this is when her human said her mission changed from Service Dog to "Surfice Dog" - how cool! This awesome girl took her skills and still worked to help people in need. Ricochet teaches people patience, love and to look at things positively. She's the ONLY dog in the world that surfs with special needs kids and the disabled for therapeutic purposes. To say the least, Ricochet amazes us! Check out her story below - be warned, get your tissues out!

Do you have an amazing, innovative pup? We'd love to hear about it - leave us a comment below!

There are so many different types of dads out there – today we’re going to help with five of them ; the sports fanatic, the businessman, the gadget guru, the food connoisseur, and the dad-who-has-everything-already.

The Sports Fanatic Dad – We all know him. He’s the guy that wears his football or baseball jersey every weekend even if it isn’t his team playing. He’s the guy that you can hear screaming at the TV from the other side of the house. And he’s the guy that never misses his kids’ sports game. What better gift than a day at the ballpark? Hotdogs, beers, fries, and some good old “take me out to the ballgame” singing. Depending on your team, tickets often start around $15 bucks – so you can take the whole family! Check out MLB.com for more information.

The Businessman Dad – He’s the guy that never goes a day without a suit or his smart phone. He likes to work hard, play hard and look good while he does it! Keep him young, but stylish, with these adorable cufflinks from CuffArt.com! Our personal faves are their Calvin and Hobbs Cufflinks, but they have a huge variety ranging from antique to modern and classic. Check out their whole collection at CuffArt.com and get 25% of your purchase today!

The Gadget Guru Dad – He’s the first to try out the trendiest new electronics. iPad? Got it – in fact he was the guy waiting in line at 6AM to upgrade to the iPad 2. 3D TV? Old news in your house… who needs IMAX when you’ve got Dolby Surround and a state of the art theatre room downstairs? Keep his gadgets charged with this awesome and portable Solar Gadget Charger from Red Envelope. Plugs right into a USB port (or mini-USB tip) and charges at the same rate as your regular conventional charger – this is a must have to keep your pops running.

The Food Connoisseur Dad – He’s the dad who loves the finer things in life. He always tries out the newest restaurants, enjoys wine flights with his meal, and he’s probably even the resident chef in your household. An easy gift for this guy is obvious – a gift certificate to his favorite spot. How about sending him his favorite food EVERY MONTH!? We’re huge fans of Amazing Clubs – we even suggested them in our Mother’s Day post. Everything from breakfast, to BBQ sauce, to Jerky, Amazing Clubs makes it easy to make your dad feel special every month.

The Dad-Who-Has-Everything – This guy is hard. You want to give him something he wants, but when you ask him he says “nothing.” How frustrating! Nothing’s better for this guy then just some good old fashioned, quality time with YOU! Take him out to lunch, the movies, hang out and play board games – whatever you decide to do - he’s sure to be happy (your wallet will be too).

Now don’t forget the dad’s with four-legged kids either! We have a wide array of great gifts; from our P.L.A.Y. Tunnel to our Camouflage beds, we’ve got something for every father. 

What did you end up buyingfor the dad in your life? We’d love to hear about it – leave us a comment below!

"What hairband? I don't know what you're talking about..."

"Oh...... Do you mean, THIS hairband?"

The interviewer, Kenneth Bell, was REALLY excited about our stuff - and was even talking in that baby voice my humans often use when they talk to me. Must be because I'm so cute... Anyways, check out my human talking about our beds!

Next time, I think I should be interviewed too! I mean, I was the inspiration for the company after all...

xoxo,

Momo

Many of us often forget the real reason for the holiday; not just an extra Monday off every May – Memorial Day is meant to commemorate and honor those who have died while serving our nation. With over three million people actively serving in our armed forces, let’s take a moment today to thank our servicemen and women for everything they do.

Before the mission to kill Osama bin Laden, many people were unaware of the vital role War Dogs play in our military. Military War Dogs have been serving our country since WWI – they were trained to help detect booby traps, bombs, and insurgents (amongst many other things) while also being fierce companions for their handlers and crew. A recent photo essay by the Foreign Policy gave us peak into all of the amazing roles these pups play. Currently there are over 3,000 active military dogs, with approximately 700 of those stationed in the Middle East.

In the past, these honored companions were euthanized after their service, but thankfully in 2000 President Clinton signed a law allowing the dogs to be adopted. Last year alone, 338 retired dogs were placed into homes, police departments and other government agencies.  Since the Osama bin Laden mission, the interest in adopting these veterans has raised significantly. Despite a waiting period of over six months, War Dog organizations say they have already received over 400 adoption applications since the raid on May 2.

If you’d like to learn more about War Dogs, including how to adopt one, visit www.USWarDogs.com or www.MilitaryWorkingDogsAdoptions.com.

Dogs are known jumpers.We've heard of dogs that are able to jump over six foot fences. For good manners, many of us even teach our pups not to jump on people. But have you ever heard of a dog jumping rope? Us either!

Little Purin just keeps getting cooler in our book.

This little girl has a wide array of tricks up her sleeve. Not only can she jump rope and play catch, but she can also roll on a ball, skateboard, open a door, and put away all of her toys. Did we mention, she does all of this while staying stylish? In one clip she's even got a little Puma shirt on. A girl's gotta look cute after all.

Little Pura is a smart and sporty beagle, but like all geniuses, she is a triple threat! Check out this clip of her getting down on her piano.

Did I mention, I love this girl!? She is just pawesome! Make sure to subscribe to her YouTube channel to check out all of her clips.

One of my dog's favorite treats is ice cream. No, not regular human ice cream - WAY too much sugar and dairy. Doggy-friendly ice cream. My local ice cream shop has non-dairy ice cream that my pup absolutely loves. They even have little dog bones they garnish the top with (perfect "cherry on top" if you ask me). If your local ice cream shop doesn't have a non-dairy option, try out some Frosty Paws! Found in the ice cream isle of most grocery stores,these yummy treats are a great way to end a hot day at the dog park.

If you dog doesn't have a sweet tooth, why not give him something meaty? Ice cubes are always a favorite way to cool down, but let's make it a little special. Freeze some low sodium beef or chicken broth and see happy your pup gets! Want something bit more gourmet? Freezy Pups sells delicious and organic treat kits to make for your pet at home. With flavors like white cheddar and banana honey, there's definitely something for every dog. And just so you don't accidently put any meat flavored ice cubes in your water, their Freezy Pup kit comes with a bone-shaped ice cube tray!

Another favorite in my house? Peanut butter. To make the treat last longer, I like to freeze peanut butter in my pup's rubber Kong toy. Another fun way to serve up some yummy peanut butter? With fruit! We all know how delicious peanut butter and apples can be - but did you know, a lot of dogs LOVE fruit too? A healthy alternative, core out your apple (the seeds are bad for dogs) and stuff it with some peanut butter.

Have you tried any of these treats? Or does your dog have another favorite summertime snack? We'd love to hear about it - leave us a comment below!

Luckily for all you humans, Lili Chin has made it easy. She has created a bunch of downloadable, dog-training related drawings to help people understand what pups, like me, are trying to say.

Every year, 4.7 million people are bit by dogs. Did you know that dog's bite when they feel scared or threatened? Since it's National Dog Bite Prevention Week, check out this pawesome drawing Lili Chin created to teach people how to properly greet a dog.

A while back, I gave you a little peak into what your dog is REALLY saying to you -  Lili Chin went a step further and created this drawing to help humans understand a dog's body language.

Personally,  I'm really digging this Lili Chin lady. She loves dogs so much, she even donates 20% of all of her commissioned drawings to Boston Buddies Rescue in California (if you prefer a different charity, pugs for example, just let her know!). So not only do you get to a super cute, and personalized drawing of your pup, you also get to feel good about yourself for helping a good cause.

So now that you know how to read a dog's body language, and how to say hi the polite way... go spread the word and help prevent dog bites!

xoxo,

Momo

From May 18-25th, pet lovers around the world will be participating in the first ever online rummage sale to help pets. This truly a win-win situation, not only do you get to de-clutter your home, you also get to help your favorite shelter, rescue or charity while you do it!

Want to join in on the fun? Be The Change makes it easy to participate.

• "Like" their Facebook page and post a comment on their wall accepting the challenge.
• Share, Share, Share! Share the challenge with all of your friends, family members, and coworkers.
• Start clearing that clutter! Clean out your closets, garages, and rooms.
• Pick a sale site such as Ebay, Craig's List or Etsy to list your items. (BlogPaws will have instructions available for those who haven't sold anything online before.
• Pick your favorite pet rescue, shelter or charity to donate to. Don't have one? Check out Petfinder.com for help.
• Start selling on May 18th! List your items for sale (make sure to follow Be The Change's guidelines) and then add them to the Linky List on BlogPaws' Be the Change site.
• Share, Share, Share...Again!  Share your items with friends, family and coworkers, asking them to share as well! Remind them that you're selling for a good cause. Don't forget, all sales should end on May 25th.
• Be proud about what you've done and donate! Donate the proceeds to your selected charity and then report  your totals to Be the Change so they can announce our collective impact!

Got a question? Post it  on Be The Change's Facebook page Discussion Tab.

What about you? Does your pup LOVE lasers? Leave us a comment below!

Maternal instinct is truly an amazing thing. Like I've said before, I don't have any children but I love my dog as though she were my child. I worry about her when I'm gone, I try to teach her good manners, and I want to make sure she has a happy and healthy life - if you ask me, I consider myself a mother. I never thought it would be possible to love an adopted dog so much. What's really amazing is how dogs and other animals will at times take on the role of adoptive mother as well. Talk about maternal instinct!

This amazing picture from Germany shows Katjinga, an eight-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback, adopting Paulinche, an abandoned piglet, and raising the runt as though it were her own.

Another heartwarming story, this video shows Lily, a lab mix, adopting kittens after her own puppies had all been adopted. In this clip we also see a fawn being adopted by a cat, a horse being raised by a goat, and a baby baboon adopted by a tiger. These ladies truly show what it means to be a mom! :)

This Sunday, whether you have a child or a four-legged family member, know that we appreciate and thank you for everything you do! Happy Mother's Day!

Dr. Marty Becker wants to give your favorite shelters and rescue groups more than $70,000 in pet products and supplies!

Imagine what a shelter or rescue group could do with thousands of dollars worth of pet treats, food, grooming products, veterinary supplies, and toys.

Use them to enrich the lives of the homeless pets in their care. Sell or raffle them off to raise funds. Give them out as adoption bonuses, or as gifts to their volunteers and fosterers. And of course, they could use them in their own daily operations.

To celebrate the release of his book "Your Dog: The Owner's Manual," and as part of his nationwide 30-city bus tour, Dr. Marty Becker — resident veterinarian on "Good Morning America" and "The Dr. Oz Show" – wants you to nominate your favorite 501c3 shelter or rescue group to receive prizes valued from $1,000 to $20,000!

All you need to do is go to Dr. Becker's Facebook fan page, "like" the page, and post the name of the organization and its location – a link to their website would be great, too, but it's not required – on his wall.

Be sure to "like" the page before you post, so you'll know when it's time for the next round – voting!

Dr. Becker will select 50 of the nominated organizations in a random drawing, and will announce them all on his Facebook page when voting begins. Shelters, rescue groups and their supporters will be able to vote for the group they'd like to see win.

Remember: "Like" the Dr. Becker's Facebook fan page to follow the 30-city book tour, learn about the great shelters and rescue groups helping animals across the country, and to see how your favorite animal organization is doing in the contest!

It's so easy! Make sure to take a few minutes out of your day to nominate your favorite shelter - who knows, they could win $20,000 worth of supplies and toys! While you're at it, make sure to "like" our Facebook page too. :)

Did you know that May is National Pet Month? What a great excuse to celebrate and appreciate your beloved four-legged friend! We are so thankful to have Momo in our lives - every single day she does something that makes us smile. Whether you have a cat, dog, horse, fish, bird or etcetera, take this chance to thank them for their unconditional love and all the happiness they bring into your life. Check out Purina's top ten ways to show your pets you love them them year round.

1. Celebrate National Pet Month with a Mani-PETi! Make a day of it – pamper yourself with a pedicure while also treating your pal to a day of well-deserved grooming and nail clipping.
2. Give your cats "me-ow time" by creating personal areas where they can retreat. Consider adding elevated perches, scratching posts, and cozy sleeping nooks to provide safe outlets for their natural behaviors.
3. Reward good behavior. Whether human, feline or canine, we all like to be recognized for good behavior. Provide extra love and treats to each of your pets as a deserving reward and they will likely continue the good behavior.
4. Have you ever given your pet a massage? Show your appreciation for your dog during National Pet Month with a healthy indulgence that's not only relaxing, but will strengthen the loving bond between you and your best bud.
5. Planning to welcome a needy cat into your home during National Pet Month? WONDERFUL. Find adorable adoptable pets near you. Visit Purina's Search for Pets section to get started.
6. Pets love presents too! Surprise your favorite furball with cool new stuff for feeding, playing and grooming.
7. Schedule three or four, 5-10 minute play sessions with your pet throughout the day.
8. Consider installing a bird feeder or an aquarium. Think of the hours of fun your kitties will have with either of these additions to your home.
9. Give the gift of activity by building a dog run or mini obstacle course in your yard.
10. Treat your pet to their favorite snack

Are you doing anything special to celebrate your pet this month? We'd love to hear about it! Leave us a comment below.

When it comes to moms, generally any gift will make them happy. Even if they hate it, do you think they would tell you? I think not. Obviously we don’t want to give Mom anything she doesn’t like, so try out this fail-proof gift. My mom loves family photos, so this Generations Picture Frame from Red Envelope is sure to be a hit! The customizable frame has interchangeable mats and an optional plaque that you can engrave. With a quote that reads “There is no greater love than the love shared between generations,” you’re sure to have a happy Mom on your hands. Since we have no children yet, you know I’ll be putting a picture of their four-legged grandkids in there!

For the crafty Mom, why not get her ready-to-assemble scrapbook? These books are great because moms don’t always have the time to make every individual page. You can find premade books ready for customization; they come with stickers, pins, buttons, charms, you name it. You can even buy ones that are 100 percent made -all you need to do is insert your own photos. Check out Hallmark for a great selection of instant scrapbooks, if you don’t have a Hallmark near you – Amazon.com has a wide variety too! My personal favorite? This adorable “Ruff: A Dog’s Life” book for your pup!

Another option? Pamper your mom EVERY month! Amazing Clubshas over 36 different monthly gift clubs you can order for your mom. Is she a wine connoisseur? No problem, Amazing Clubs will send your mom two new bottles every month! Does your mom LOVE chocolate? How does 1lb of gourmet chocolate sound? With everything from cheesecake to popcorn to steak and lobster, there is definitely something here for every mom. If you’re undecided, they can even help you customize your own Variety of the Month gift!

Now if you have a dog that’s a mom, don’t forget her!  Amazing Clubs even has a Dog Treat of the Month option. If your pup is watching her weight, pamper her with a super-comfy new bed! Make sure to check out our whole line of stylish options.

If you’re still looking for gift ideas, give the gift that you have an abundance of – your time! Mom’s want more than anything just to spend time with us, so why not make your mom feel extra special and take her out! Is your mom a fashionista? Take her out for a day of shopping! Does your mom love to cook? Take her to a cooking class! Is your mom the outdoorsy type? Perfect time for a springtime hike! Is your mom a workaholic? Pamper her with a spa day! Not sure what your mom likes to do? Take her out to dinner… everyone has to eat after all.

Whatever you decide to do, Mom will appreciate all the thought and effort. More than anything she will love spending some quality time with you. Happy Mother’s Day!

What most people think about when they think of Easter is an Easter egg hunt. Just because our dogs can't decorate eggs or eat any of the hardboiled or deviled egg goodness - they can definitely still join in on the egg hunt fun. Lots of cities actually have organized events for all dogs to participate -  here in San Francisco, The Wag Hotel  just had their second annual Easter Egg hunt, with all of proceeds donated to a local non-profit. (for pictures check out their Facebook page)! Since we weren't able to go, we'll be staging a mini hunt for Momo in our house. We load plastic eggs with her favorite treats and then hide them under pillows, behind curtains, basically anywhere she can stick her little nose and paw. It's a blast seeing her so excited, and we just have a lot of fun.

Another fun part of Easter? The baskets! These are usually filled with candy, peeps, toys, you name it. And think about it, what dog doesn't like treats and toys! Baskets are super easy to make, and you can fill them with your pup's favorite treats and a new special toy. Don't have time? Check out Bisket's Baskets - they make baskets for the Dog Lover and their pets! They use healthy, high-quality treats in their baskets and they are so festive! I particularly love their Easter Good Dog Basket - with freeze-dried ice cream and peanut butter biscuits, I'm sure Momo would love this one too.

Whatever you decide to do, Easter can be a fun day for your whole family; four-legged members included.

Do you have any fun plans for Easter? We'd love to hear about it! Leave us a comment below.

To some, it's not a good idea to change a dog's food too much - but to me, I believe it depends on the dog. Our girl doesn't have a sensitive stomach, and we always transition her slowly. I think the problem is, she is such a huge part of our family that she actually believes she is entitled to what we are eating. And more often than not, we will mix in some meat to her kibble. I know, I know, we're enablers.

We've tried high end foods, grain-free foods, soft-foods, even canned foods. Heck, Merrick's Grammy's Pot Pie even sounds delicious to me! But, alas, my pup is a food snob. Truthfully, do you ever wonder who got the idea that dogs have to eat the same thing... every. single. day. of. their. lives? Come on, that has to get old... and fast. Sometimes, our girl will go on food strike - she will have kibble in her bowl for a couple days and then finally give in and eat it when she knows we won't mix anything in. Diva, huh?

I've been researching and have read that heating up dog food helps. Since a dog has an extremely strong sense of smell, heating up their food can help bring out more flavor. A few weeks ago, we decided to give dehydrated food a try. It's made with human grade meats, and it's supposed to be really good for your pup. So far, it's a hit. She is licking her bowl squeeky clean. Right now, we're feeding her Addiction's Beef and Zucchini meal. Convenient and easy to prepare, each selection is holistic and hypo-allergenic.

If you have this same problem, keep an eye out on our blog - we'll be detailing 5 ways to help feed a finicky eater in an upcoming post!

Is your pup picky? What do you do to get him to eat?

Our first must-have is a necessity for pugs. Now that the weather is getting warmer, Momo is beginning to shed her undercoat... a lot. Every dog needs a good de-shedding tool and it doesn't really get better than the FURminator. With products for short or long fur, small or big dogs, young or old, FURminator has something for every dog (or even cats and rabbits!). Not sure which one to get? They make it easy - check out their product selector.

San Franciscans pride themselves on being outdoorsy. In the Bay Area there are tons of beaches, hiking trails and dog parks. With all that outdoor activity, its important to stay hydrated - and we love Dog is Good's water bottle! Our second must-have has two openings: the small one up top is a dog-activated flow-controlling roller-ball dispenser (think hamster water bottle and you’re on the right track). The second opening is larger to allow for filling and cleaning, un-screw the whole top, flip it over – and you've got a cup! Brilliant.

With the sunny weather, nothing is better than just a nice long romp. Quick and easy, our P.L.A.Y. tunnel is our third must-have for spring. It pops up in seconds and provides fun for the whole pack! The compact carrying bag also makes it easy for us to bring to the park - sure to be a hit at any Pug Sunday!

What about you - what are your must-haves for this season?

In America, it feels like everyone drives everywhere. I'll admit it, I'm guilty. Need some milk and bread? Why yes, I'll drive the two miles to the grocery store. Luckily, if you have a dog - he can help you get you around AND save you money! Check out these three fun (and funny) ways dogs are helping out their humans.

Don't want to walk because you have too many groceries to carry home? No excuse here! Get out, get some exercise and have fido help pull them back! Just make sure to treat him for all of his hard work. Check out this awesome dog in Seattle. What a good boy.

Need to get somewhere fast? Try some rollerblades! It's a great workout for both you and your dog - and it's got to be a rush too! They must be going at least 15 miles per hour...

If you feel more comfortable taking the lead, have your dog push you where you're going instead. Ok, this doesn't look all that comfortable, but look how happy that dog looks!

Ok, maybe your dog can't really help you save all that much gas money... but she can sure put a smile on your face. And think, if you walked to the grocery store every once in awhile you'd be getting in some great bonding time with your pup while also getting some exercise.

What about you? Does your dog do any fun and quirky things?

A few months ago we shared with you her favorite treats, but she isn't picky - she loves anything yummy. We often find ourselves rewarding her for just being so cute. You know, how can you resist the classic pug head-tilt.

From time to time, we've heard people say the smaller the dog, the smaller the brain. Not true. Pugs are incredibly quirky and smart. Some can even be divas, and have a dramatic side.

Momo has tried to steal the occasional treat from other dogs,sometimes she even succeeds. I'm sure she just thinks she deserves a taste... and besides, it's nice to share.

This pug below really has sneaking a treat, down to a science. Pretend to snuggle, ham it up a bit, and go in for the kill. :) You can't tell me that pug has a small brain.

Now Momo is a smart girl. She knows how to sit, stay, and even behaves on leash - and she's only just over a year old! As smart and obedient as she is, I don't think she will ever be as patient as this pup below who does a ton of tricks for just one snausage! Or, maybe Momo knows she doesn't have too.... Hm....

What about your dog? Are they sneaky treat stealers or do they have any fun tricks they'll do for a yummy snack?

Symptoms vary and some are actually very similar to humans. Goopy eyes, sneezing, crankiness (okay, thats more common in humans)  -  all signs your pup is suffering from the pollen. The number one sign that your pet is allergic? Skin problems. Does your pup chew or lick his paws? Scratch his armpits? It's likely your pup is suffering from seasonal allergies.

What can you do to help? Visit your vet, they can help determine the source of the problem. Sometimes they will prescribe medication or recommend a different type of food. And although you've probably heard you should only bathe your dog once or twice a month - during allergy season you should up this to once a week. A bit excessive you say? Not so, check out this video of Dr. Becker on ABC's Good Morning America.

Dr. Becker makes a good point. Many of us suffer from seasonal allergies - and for all of those who share their bed with their pup (I'm guilty) bathing once a week not only helps relieve their symptons, it can help yours too!

If you’re having pug withdrawals, you can always check out my BFF on the Daily Puglet. He’s super funny, and not to mention cute… *wink wink*.

So these last few months I’ve been an international traveling sensation. I’ve been hanging out with mom in Hong Kong, and man, Grandpa and Grandma LOVE me! I get to take all the naps I want, eat as many treats as my little heart’s desire, AND I practically get carried everywhere. As a princess, you wouldn’t want dirty toes, would you? Recently, Mom took me with her to brunch with some friends, and let me tell you, B-O-R-I-N-G. I not only had to sit on the floor, but I didn’t get to order anything either! Check out this awesome pouty face that I have perfected. You would let me order off the menu, wouldn’t you?

All the traveling has been fun, and I love seeing the grandparents, but man, I’m missing my dad. You see, he’s busy in San Francisco making me all these awesome beds. I’ve got one in the car for when we go on adventures, one in front of the window  for when I want to people watch, and one in the bedroom. And no, I don’t share them with my humans… come on, those are MINE!

I know dad is missing me too. When he calls mom, he insists on talking to me in this funny baby voice. Whatever makes him happy, I guess.  Now that I think about it, every time a human talks to me they have that same voice. What’s up with that? It’s probably cause I’m super cute, but come on people… I’m almost two! That means I’m a teenager now…so look out.

Next up – I’ll be back in San Francisco soon, and will be doing my next photo shoot! Don’t worry humans, I will make sure to give you sneak peeks!

xoxo,

Momo

• The furniture torn up
• An "accident" on the carpet
• Food on the counter missing
• Fur all over the couch 
• (insert guilt-causing activity here)

Then when you start searching for the culprit you get...the look. The "I'm so sorry, please don't be mad at me, look at my really cute face" look. But is look your pup giving you, really an admission of guilt?

In some cases, absolutely. This YouTube clip, viewed by millions, shows Denver (the most adorable guilty face I have ever seen) feeling guilty after she chowed down on some kitty treats - obviously not meant for her. She can't look her human in the eye, and instead gives the most hysterical teeth baring "I'm sorry" ever.

Published in the Behavioral Process Journal, Canine expert Alexandra Horowitz conducted a study to determine if what we perceive as guilt, is actually that - guilt. In the study, Dr. Horowitz told some owners that their dogs had misbehaved, when in fact they had not. Those owners said that their dogs looked guilter than the dogs who had actually misbehaved (chowed down on the treats they were told not to touch).

“Based on the experiment, ‘the look’ that we, humans, think indicates dogs’ guilt was not, in fact, prompted by their disobedience,” says Dr. Horowitz. “Instead, it appeared most when they were scolded or about to be scolded.”

So next time you're about to place blame on your pup, make sure that he is 100% guilty. In my case, I only have one dog - so thats a safe assumption. But more than anything, the guilty-face my dog gives me, rewards her! Because in turn - I feel so guilty for making her feel bad!

Check out Denver, our favorite guilty dog, looking much happier on ABC's Good Morning America !

Do your dogs have the guilty face? Share it on our Facebook page!

When loved ones come home, always run to greet  them. 

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Enjoy the little things; take naps, roll in the mud, run in circles and savor tasty treats.
  
When you're happy, dance around  and wag your entire body.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find  it.

On warm  days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

When  someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Be loyal and don't hold grudges. Live in the moment.

With how busy our lives get, it's easy to forget how fortunate we really are. There are thousands of animals in Japan that need our help. If you're able to, consider donating to a legitimate cause - check out Global Pets for more infomation.

San Francisco is where it all started for us. It’s where we got Momo, and where this whole journey began. When we heard about the Golden Gate Kennel Club – of course we had to participate!  The show was a lot of fun and we had a great time meeting all of the local dog lovers.

Next stop? Seattle. Like San Francisco, the city is known for being dog-friendly and is kind of like a second home to us. The Seattle Kennel Club Dog Show had a great turn out, and people from the Emerald City really seemed to love our products!

Right now, we’re at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando. Known as the biggest pet show in the US, there was no question that we’d be attending. What we didn’t expect though – P.L.A.Y. being named one of Dr. Becker's Best of 2011 at the Global Pet Expo! For those of you who aren't familiar, Dr. Marty Becker is known as "America's Veterinarian" and is regularly featured on ABC's Good Morning America and The Dr. Oz Show! Considering that there are more than 700 vendors who participate at the event, receiving this award is BEYOND EXCITING for us! As a new company, it really doesn’t get any better than this…

In these short four months, we’ve crossed the country working to redefine the pet bed experience for modern pet owners. We’re definitely not done though – we’ll be attending many more conventions and shows this year. We hope that you’ll come and say hi when we’re in your area. Leave us a comment and let us know what great events are happening in your hometown – who knows? Maybe we’ll be there next!

In honor of the website's 15th birthday today, Petfinder is asking people everywhere to pledge to spread the word online about adoptable pets today, March 15, 2011. Although the day is almost over, you can definitely still help!

What You Can Do Now

• Add a badge  to your Web site to show your support.
• Take our pledge that you will tell one person about pet adoption. By pledging, you'll enter for a chance to win one of 10 Pet Hair Eraser^® Vacuums from BISSELL.
• Donate your Facebook status and photo to an adoptable Petfinder pet. Simply replace your photo with one from the Adopt-the-Internet All-Stars gallery and post one of these messages:
  • More than 320,000 pets are waiting for homes on Petfinder.com. Help Petfinder Adopt the Internet today and find forever homes for as many as possible!
  • I adopted my pet from Petfinder and now I want to help get this pet adopted! If you want to help pets in need of forever homes, please repost this!
  Share an adoptable Petfinder pet on Twitter with the hashtag #adopttheinternet.
• Add a link to your blog, Facebook or Twitter post to this page!

Did you find your furry best friend on Petfinder.com? We'd love to hear your story - leave us a comment!

After a week of voting, Preston, the absolutely adorable pit-bull won over all our hearts (how could he not, with that sad face!) and became the winner of our first ever photo contest. We loved this little guy so much; we reached out to his human, Ken Decost to learn more about their story together.

Ken told me he’s always been a dog person, but has never owned one himself. While visiting his parent’s house on the East Coast during the holidays, he spent a majority of the time hanging out with the family boxer. Seeing how much fun he was having, Ken’s father suggested he get a dog of his own – he even offered to get Ken one for a Christmas present! (That’s my kind of dad!) Once he returned home to Southern California, Ken took no time to begin his search for the perfect pup. On a random visit to a local breeder, Ken met 11 six-week-old American Pit Bulls. Little did he know, that day he would be meeting and taking home his new best friend, Preston.

Interesting name you say? There’s really no story behind it – Ken loved the name and it fit the little blue guy perfectly. I think it makes him sound regal. :)

It’s been over 3 years since Preston found his forever home, and what an amazing few years they have been! Ken and his girlfriend Samantha are true doggy parents – making sure to not stay out too late if Preston isn’t with them, and often buying more things for him than for themselves (sounds familiar… :).

Living in California, Preston often gets to go to the beach - he loves to swim!

While Preston can be handful, he’s also a Pit Bull Ambassador. He loves to go on vacation, traveling coast to coast with Ken and Samantha.People are generally surprised when they find out Preston is a pit-bull, particularly since he isn’t the big scary monster, stereotypes often make pit-bulls out to be. More than visiting all the fun locations, he LOVES staying in hotels (and jumping on beds too!).

A few months ago, Preston wasn’t feeling so hot. While Ken didn’t want to leave him alone, he had some errands to run. When he got home – he was greeted to a sad pup and a not so pleasant smell. To say the least, Preston’s bed was ruined. Fortunately he entered our contest and the people responded! The majority vote believed that Preston was the most worthy of a new bed from P.L.A.Y. – so he won! Check out how comfy he looks!

Preston, we hope you and your humans love the new bed – we’d love to see more pics in the future!

A while back I received this great email - I'm not sure if it is true or just a made up story, but the message behind it is so powerful. There's a good chance you've already read this - but it's always nice to read again.

A Dog's  Purpose, (from a 6-year-old)  

-Author Unknown

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old  Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to  Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he  was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure  for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron  and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat  as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.

Within a few minutes, Belker  slipped peacefully away...

The little boy seemed to accept  Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, 'I  know why.'

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, 'People are born so that they can learn how  to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and  being nice, right?' The six-year-old continued, 'Well, dogs  already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as  long.'

- Happy Monday everyone.

Pug owners are a breed of their own. Who else could love these not-so-cute-which-is-why-they-are-so ridiculously-cute dogs? We're not sure who started Pug Sundays, but we're sure glad they did! The events attract a lot of people in the San Francisco area and are just a lot of fun. If you don't have a pug - no worries! Any dog is welcome so long as they are pug-friendly. Be warned though, your pup will be very outnumbered. If you're a dog lover, but aren't ready for the commitment - come out and enjoy the beautiful park! Pugs and their owners are very friendly - you'll be fully immersed in all of the snorting, sniffing and smiling going on.

If you live in San Francisco but aren't available on the first Sunday of the month - make sure to check out Pugslife for more information on pug groups and meetups in the Bay Area.

Does your pup bark at EVERYTHING?

Do you often come home to chewed up:

• Furniture?
• Pillows?
• Shoes?
• Stuff you can't identify?

Does your dog run around in circles or randomly run like a mad woman in your home?

Does your pup whine a lot  or just LOOK bored?

More often than not, if your dog displays any or all of the symptoms above - they are bored and lack mental stimulation. Imagine being home all day sleeping, eating, just lounging. Now imagine doing that every single day of your life. After a few days, you would go stir crazy too! Boredom can potentially lead to mental health issues and result in destructive behaviour, seperation anxiety, hyperactivity, obsessive compulsive behaviour, even aggression. In addition to daily exercise, here are a few ways to keep your dog mentally happy.

Doggy Day Care.

Many of us work fulltime jobs - which means fido gets left at home for more than 8 hours alone. An awesome way to get that energy out is to take your pup to a Doggy Day Care once or twice a week. It's great for their socialization skills and by the time you pick them up, they are so tuckered out all they want to do is snuggle!

Toys

Dogs love toys. There are some great intellectual toys out there that really require some brainpower from your pup. Momo is particularly fond of Kyjen's Hide a Squirrel Toy. Whatever toy you give your dog, make sure to rotate them. Just like kids, they get tired of the same toys easily - rotating them keeps their interest high and makes playtime a lot more fun.

Training

I love doing training exercises with my dog, you can really tell she is thinking and working hard to make sure she gets it right. Dogs love to please their humans and can really benefit from training. Whether you're teaching your pup tricks or basic manners, he or she will really appreciate the positive reinforcement (or treats for that matter).

Sports

Lots of dogs excel in sports or competition. From agility to flyball to dock jumping, dogs often really enjoy participating in these activities. Whether competing individually or in a team, these competitions are great bonding experience for both pups and their owners. And they are just a lot of fun!

These are just a few of the many great options to get keep your dog mentally happy. More often than not these options are fun ways to also bond with your pup. By keeping your dog happy, you are also keeping them healthy as well! So get out there and have some fun with your dog!

Austin Pet's Alive! (APA) is a non-profit organization run almost exclusively by it's volunteers. With a mission to provide resources, education and programs needed to eliminate the killing of companion animals - we were more than happy to donate one of our products for their Sweet Barks adoption event.

It was a fun-filled and wonderful day for pets, people, and Austin Pets Alive! Almost $1500 was raised, as well as $600 worth of donated food, toys and treats. 

The best part:  six animals went home that day - to new lives, with additional adoptions still pending!   Congratulations on a successful event APA!

The Weston Whirlwinds have been participating in North American Flyball Association flyball tournaments since 2000. For those of you who don't know, Flyball is a fast-paced relay race for pups. It's unique because it is truly a team sport - four dogs and their handlers have to work together in order for their team to be successful. Most recently, their event in February hosted 56 teams at the Central Massachusetts Expo Center in Fitchburg, MA. (Thats over 200 dogs!)

A portion of the proceeds from the event were donated to Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (FSMA). The charity (chosen because a member's son is affected by the terrible disease) raises money to help find a cure for the disease in addition to supporting families dealing with the illness everyday. We are proud to have been a sponsor for such an important cause.

Next up? The Weston Whirlwinds are hosting a Mardi Gras Madness event at the end of March. To find out more about the sport or learn how to get your dog involved, check out the North American Flyball Associations website.

This April, the Delta Australian Shepard Fanciers and the Peninsula Australian Shepard Association will be hosting their Spring Fling event. The event includes two Agility Trials, four Conformation Shows, two Obedience Trials and two Rally Trials - all for Australian Shepards! Last year the event had 139 dogs compete in the conformation show alone! For the event this year, 100 percent of the money raised from their raffle will be split equally between animal rescue and cancer research. With such a great cause, we were happy to donate one of our agility tunnels for the event.

We contributed to these events because they are not only fun for animals and their humans, but they work to make a difference as well. We'll be sure to share more photos as we get them!

The submission deadline closed last week and we had the hard job of trying to narrow down all the entries to five finalists. While we wish we could give a bed to every dog, here were our picks for most deserving.

Beto is an adorable pup who likes to go a little "crazy" and tore up his last bed. Looks like he's still working on it.

Digger's human got him this chair and a matching ottoman at a garage sale, but it doesn't look like it's holding up too well anymore.

Page's bed looks more like a pillow than a bed! According to her owner, the bed has holes and is so stinky it  could "kill a cat." Yikes.

A few months ago, Preston got really sick and had accident that ruined his bed. Poor guy looks so sad in his kennel with just a few fleece blankets!

Savannah's crate got taken over by the cat, so in turn she's using the cat's bed - that clearly is too small!

All of these adorable dogs could definitely use a new bed - now we leave it up to you to decide which one will win a Cameo bed from our Artist Collection. Voting closes on Friday, February 25 - Make sure to visit Dog-Milk's facebook page now and vote for your favorite! Good Luck!

Pugs have been popular amongs celebrities and royalty for some time now dating all the way back to 400 B.C. with the Shang Dynasty in China. Today, you can see these litte dogs in the arms of celebs all around LA. Here are our favorites:

Designer Valentino loves these little guys and was last counted with have SIX of them. That's right, SIX - the mother, Molly; her sons, Milton and Monty; and her daughters, Margot, Maude and Maggie. He loves them so much, he has even named one of his past collections after his late pug, Oliver. Here's a great photo of Valentino with a couple of his beloved dogs.

Jessica Alba has two pugs of her own, Syd and Nancy. She has been photographed taking them shopping, to lunch and even on vacation to Mexico! In an interview with Animal Fair magazine, Jessica said, "They just want to be hugged, loved and kissed. They're great as long as I give them attention."

The late Duke and Duchess of Windsor are possibly a couple of the most well-known pug lovers of the 20th century. Over the years they had a total of 11 pugs, all of which they took with them almost everywhere. These pups were definitely treated like royalty. They had their own entourage that went with them - including a personal chef and designated pooper scoopers!

Other current and past celebrity pug owners include; Gerard Butler, Hugh Laurie, Kelly Osborn, Paris Hilton, Tori Spelling and Billie Joel (among many others).

Earlier this month we participated in CityDog's annual Puppy Love MuttMixer at the swanky W Hotel in Seattle. We brought some of our beds for all the pups to lounge on and settled ourselves in for a night filled with puppy kisses!

Local to the Northwest and launched in 2005, CityDog Magazine overflows with informative, insightful and often humorous articles on topics from the latest doggie trends to regional activities for dogs and their people. CityDog is the definitive dog lover’s magazine about life and living with dogs in the West -- Seattle, Portland, San Francisco -- and everywhere in between. Make sure to join the CityDog Pack to meet other dog lovers in your neighborhood and for a chance to win a P.L.A.Y. bed of your choice!

This was our first MuttMixer and we can pawsitively say it will NOT be our last! It was so much fun to see all the ear-to-ear grins and wagging tails. CityDog and the W hotel definitely set an amazing stage - there was a great DJ, lots of candle-lit cocktail tables, a blazing fireplace and food and drinks swirling around all night. It was easily the swankiest place to take your dog for a pre-Valentine's Day cocktail hour.

Another amazing part of the night? The photographer! Julie Clegg of Bailey and Banjo was buzzing around all night, capturing all the cute, sassy, and adorable moments. When we saw all the photos afterwards, we have to say - we were way more than impressed.

Being a mother to both two and four-legged children, Julie truly understands what it means to be a dog lover. Recently shifting her photography focus to just pets, Julie works with each of her clients to provide a custom experience. She understands that people have very special connections with their pets and makes it her priority to display that in her photos. To sum it up, she says her goal "is to tell your story as you see it, with beautiful images that capture the true essence of you, your dog, and that relationship you share." What more could you ask from a photographer?

Julie offers lifestyle, studio and what she calls "moody dog" sessions. Being local to the Northwest, it's great that she provides a variety of sessions to take advantage of the winter months as well as a home studio for those rainy-day shots. To see more of her work make sure to visit her website at BaileyandBanjo.com. Also check out her Facebook page and follow her on Twitter!

Overall, we couldn't have asked for a better night. Check out CityDog's website or Facebook page to see the rest of the photos. Thanks to CityDog and the W for a fabulous evening - we'll definitely be back again!

On rainy days like this, I love to take advantage of the downtime. While Momo curls up and naps next to the fire, I like to settle in and enjoy a good book.

The first dog book I'd ever read was Marley and Me by John Grogan. I loved looking at all the adorable photos inside, it was like I was able to watch Marley grow up as I read about his life. I think I liked it so much because it was so easy to relate to all the stories of Marley being goofy, naughty and endearing all at the same time. The book made me laugh and it definitely made me cry - so I would recommend it to anyone. I would also recommend reading the book before seeing the movie. Although I did like it, something about Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston took away from the awesome-ness of Marley. Overall though, a solid two paws up.

My FAVORITE dog book by FAR is The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. The book is about a family dealing with loss and turmoil seen through the eyes of Enzo, the family dog. Just the way Enzo thinks and talks, makes being a dog owner/lover all the better. It's like sweet justification because everything you thought your dog was thinking, Enzo does. Absolutely brilliant. The story is heartwrenching but so uplifting at the same time. Not that dog lovers need it, but Enzo definitely serves as a reminder as to why dogs are called Man's Best Friend. There were many times when Enzo made me laugh out loud, and many times when I was devasted because I knew what was coming. Thinking about the book is making my eyes water - and I haven't read it in over three years. If that doesn't tell you how awesome it is, I don't know what will. Overall, we give this book a complete tail and body wag... it's that good.

Have you read these books? Or got a book recommendation? Leave us a comment below!

Many of you may remember Mishka, the sweet husky who says "I love you" to her humans. If you haven't seen it yet - check out the video below!

Mishka is a Youtube sensation! With more than 3 dozen videos loaded, you can see her say "bye bye," ask "how you doing?" and even say "no!" when asked if she's stupid." Like millions of other people in the country, I think she is one amazing husky!

Her next feat? Taking on the music industry. In this clip Mishka is using auto-tune to help enhance her skills. Watch out Usher, T-Pain and Akon - you ain't got nothing on Mishka!

Do you have a singing/talking dog? We'd love to see - Post your videos on our Facebook page!

For Valentine's Day we like to spoil Momo with something sweet. She always makes us smile, so it's the least we could do, right? There's a great boutique by our house that sells adorable treats, but this year we're gonna try baking her some. We found this recipe for Peanut Butter Doggie Bones on BrownEyedBaker.com - instead of making them bone-shaped, we're going to make them heart-shaped. Too cute huh?

Ingredients:
2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 cup natural peanut butter
1 cup low-fat milk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk. Add wet mixture to dry, and mix well.

Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and knead. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out shapes. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Cool on a rack and store in an airtight container.

If you don't have time or are just baking impaired, no worries - you can order gift boxes online. PamperedPawGifts.com has a wide selection of treats and baskets that you can buy for your furry valentine. They can even personalize them with your pup's name! (Not that your pup can read, but it's the thought that counts.)

 If your dog can't have sweets, you can still get them a special treat! TrendyPuppy.com has a wide selection of awesome Valentine themed toys, outfits and charms. Act fast though, they're selling out quickly!

Finally, what better way to show your dog how much you love them, then giving them a place of their own. Don't forget to check out our website to view our whole selection of super-comfy beds! If you're in the Seattle-area, we'll be at CityDog's MuttMixer at the W hotel on the 9th, so make sure to come by and say hi!

Back when I got my P.L.A.Y. beds, I hinted at possibly doing a giveaway. Well, I wasn’t lyin’ — here it is! We’re giving away a medium-sized P.L.A.Y. David Collins-designed black and white Cameo bed, a $149 value!

As you know, I replaced Lulu’s dirty, dingy holey dog bed with a new P.L.A.Y. bed and that’s what we’re going to do for you, too. We’re going to give this bed to the lucky reader with the most pathetic dog bed. Does your dog sleep on the arm of your sofa? In a cardboard box? In the litter box? On an old beanbag? Send us the most disturbing, grossest, yuckiest place your dog sleeps and a sentence or two why he/she deserves a new bed.

More details about the bed: The medium size is great for dogs up to 60 lbs and measures 36″ in diameter x 4.5″ high. It is made of 100% natural cotton covering that is soft, breathable and allergy-free, filled with eco-friendly filler made from recycled plastic bottles, and machine-washable cover. The image is a repeating background with a cameo-style dog head on the top. The sides also feature a scroll detail.

Artist David Collins says about this bed, “I wanted this to be a classy, framed, side-profile silhouette of man’s best friend. With a touch of whimsy, too.”

How to enter: Email a photo of your dog’s current bed to info@dog-milk.com along with 1-3 sentences about the bed and why your dog deserves a new one. Please use the Subject: “P.L.A.Y. Cameo Bed Giveaway Entry”. Please only send one photo — make it a doozie. We will accept entries through February 18, 2011. Voting on Facebook will open on February 21, 2011 and run through February 27, 2011. The winner will be announced on Dog Milk, Dog Milk’s Facebook page, Dog Milk’s Twitter page, and P.L.A.Y.’s Facebook and Twitter on February 28, 2011.

Rules: Entries will be narrowed down to 3-5 by Dog Milk and P.L.A.Y and posted to the Dog Milk Facebook page, where our readers will vote on who deserves to get the bed. Contest is open to US residents only. There is no fee to enter or receive the bed. By entering, you grant permission to Dog Milk and P.L.A.Y to use your photo and description to promote the contest. If you win, you grant Dog Milk and P.L.A.Y permission to use your photo and description in announcements and future promotions.

Make sure to send over your photos! We can't wait to see them. Good luck!

This weekend, you can find P.L.A.Y. at the 107^th Annual Golden Gate Kennel Club in San Francisco at the Cow Palace. In addition to the all-breed dog show there will be a flyball demostration and a fashion show to top it off! We'll have a lot of different beds on hand for purchase, so come and get your pup an early Valentine's Day present!

On February 9^th you can find P.L.A.Y. at CityDog’s annual Puppy Love MuttMixer at the swanky W Hotel in Seattle. If you live in the area, dress to impress and bring your furry valentine for some fun and mingling over drinks! We’ll be setting up a couple puppy lounges featuring our beds, so make sure to come by and say hi. For more information visit CityDog’s website.

We’ve got a few other events on the horizon, so check back here for more details. Also, make sure to ‘Like’ us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updates as well! Not in your area? What events would you love to see P.L.A.Y. at?

I've learned that all I gotta do is run around in a couple circles, sit down a few times or even shake my butt and out comes the gushy voice. Man,  I've got them wrapped around my little duclaw. For all you humans that are curious about dog talk, I'll break it down for you.

You see: A head tilt (sometimes accompanied with a wimper/bark) Dog speak: "Man that burger looks tasty... You won't be able to resist this adorable face!"

You see: Your dog wagging it's tail circles (in my case, my whole butt wiggles). Dog speak: "Where the heck have you BEEN! I am so glad you are finally home!' or "OH.EM.GEE!!! Is that new toy/treat for ME!!"

You see: Your pup running like a mad woman around the dinner table. Dog speak: "CHASE ME!! I'm a hot piece of doggy tail and you won't be able to catch me! Go on, I dare you to try!"

You see: Your dog laying down with head on paws. Dog speak: "You need to notice how cute I am and give me more treats. Now."

You see: Your dog's ears and eyes perked up. Dog speak: "Did someone say treat?" or "Don't you even think of going somewhere without me."

You see: Your dog kicking and barking in his sleep. Dog speak: "Almost. Got. The. Rabbit. Run. Faster." Check out poor Bizkit, he was so close to catching it, he ran into the wall! Those dang rabbits are sneaky little fellas.

You see: Your dog licking your face. Dog speak: "I love you a LOT"

Ok... it really means "I love you a lot because you ate something yummy and left some behind for me!"

xoxo,

Momo

Your dog eats better than you do.

I like to treat my pet to a snack here and there, but check out this clip of a crazy couple from Animal Planet's, 'It's Me or the Dog'.  

You sleep on the corner of your bed, half covered in blankets because you don't want to wake up your pup.

How dare you wake up your pup from her beauty sleep! You can catch up on your Zzz's tomorrow.

 You kiss your dog...

Good morning, goodbye before work, over the answering machine when you call to check in, when you get home from work, after dinner, before bed... you get the idea.

Your dog has outfits or collars for special occasions.

New Christmas sweater? Check. Annual Christmas card of just your dogs? Crazy. (And no, that isn't Momo.)

There are more photos of your pooch on your Facebook, than of you.

Your profile pic is probably of your dog too, isn't it? Heck, you probably have a Twitter and Facebook account just for your dog, don't you? No need to be embarrassed...

If any of these signs sound familiar, you are well on your way to earning the title of CDP (Crazy Dog Person). If you can answer yes to each of these items... (like me) then you are past the point of turning back. But really, would you want to go back? Some call it crazy - I call it puppy love.

Happy Thursday fellow CDPs!

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day! We think it's important to remember the reason for this special holiday, and that it is more than just a three-day weekend. Momo actually loves playing with all types of animals - she's really curious and just doesn't discriminate. Obviously, some animal species are just natural born enemies; tigers, bears, dogs, polar bears, you name it - you just wouldn't think of them as friends. Well we recently watched National Geographic's one hour special, "Unlikely Animal Friends 2" and were suprised (and heartwarmed) by what we saw.

With most of the country covered in snow, we wanted to give you some tips and tricks on how to keep your pup safe and happy this winter. Generally, dogs love playing in the snow - it always makes me laugh when my dog starts bunny-hopping around in it. But just like people, they are susceptible to hypothermia and frosbite.

For people, it's easy to bundle up with jackets and boots. For dogs, it's not as easy. While some dogs have fur made for the snow, the majority of dogs have fur coats that just don't cut it. Hypothermia can set in quickly and can be fatal if not addressed immediately. The first sign of hypothermia, just like with humans, is shivering - however be careful because if their temperature drops too low, that can stop. Other indicators include; pale or blue gums, acting confused and fast or shallow breathing. If you think your dog might be experiencing hypothermia, raise their temperature slowly - make sure they are dry and use a blow dryer on low to warm them up. Also, make sure to call your vet immediately.  You can help avoid hypothermia by making sure to not leave your pets in the car when it is freezing outside and never leave them outside for prolonged periods of time without access to shelter and warmth. Additionally, you can put water-proof jackets or sweaters on them to help keep them dry and warm - it also helps them look ridiculously cute!

Dogs also are at risk for frostbite - primarily on their ears, paws and tail. At first, the frostbitten area will look pale or gray and feel icy cold. In serious cases, the affected area can turn black. Similar to hypothermia, you can avoid frostbite by making sure to keep a close watch when your dog is playing in the snow - and ensuring they have access to warmth and shelter. Personally, my dogs paws will often hurt after playing in the snow. Ruff Wear makes many different types of boots and jackets to keep your pet comfy in all of the elements. Their Bark N' Boots snow boots are designed to provide your dog warmth and traction on snow and ice. Make sure to check out their website for all their great cold weather pet accessories.

Overall, snow can be a lot of fun for you and your pet - just make sure to keep them safe and warm!

• If you have a puppy under four months old, they likely have not had all of their shots. They should not be around other dogs because they can be exposed to viruses and diseases.
• If your dog is in heat. You are just asking for trouble.
• If your dog doesn't play nicely with other dogs. This should be a no brainer, but you will be amazed how many people think that since parks are big,  that this is okay.
• If your dog isn't (or you don't know if they are) current on their shots. Get them to a vet!

• Always (and I mean always) pick up after your pet! No one wants to step in your dog's leftovers.
• Don't ever leave your dog unattended.
• Don't bring more dogs than you can handle. There are often limits (usually three) on how many dogs you can bring. Make sure to check the posted rules
• Keep your dog onleash until you are safely inside the park, then REMOVE the leash! Dogs act very differently when on and off leash - they want to say hello to others and smell all the different surroundings. They can easily get frustrated and uncomfortable if you try to keep them onleash. If you are unsure of how they will socialize - try socializing them with other dogs in a controlled environment BEFORE bringing them to the park!
• Be mindful of your pet. If they are jumping on someone or constantly humping another dog - stop them.
• If your dog becomes unruly or plays too rough, remove them from the situation. If you still have problems after seperating your pup, it's time to go home. With that said, understand that most scuffles are short and usually harmless. Dogs have a different way of communicating than people.
• Don't eat or smoke at the dog park. Dogs get tempted and these things can be harmful to them.
• Follow the rules! Most parks have rules posted and they are there for a reason.

Overall, dog parks are supposed to be a fun experience for you and your dog! If you follow these rules, you should have no problem making new friends (the four-legged and two-legged kinds) in no time!

How many of you have debated with friends that your dog is smarter than their cat? Or vice versa? It's a question that has been debated since the beginning of time... okay, not that long, but you get the idea. Recently Pawnation.com posted an article about this very topic and detailed the results from a study conducted by Oxford University. For some (like me) the results are not very surprising. :)

People often think cats are smarter than dogs because they have more independant personalities. However according to the study, the more social an animal the bigger their brain. Dr. Suzanne Schultz (who led the study) told the Telegraph that the study "suggests the co-operation and co-ordination needed for group living can be challenging and over time some mammals have evolved larger brains to be able to cope with the demands of socialising." She also adds, "All dogs are quite good at solving problems, which gives credence to the traditional image of the cunning fox which is a member of the same family. Dogs descended from wolves which appear to have the biggest brains as they live in large family groups.”

Out of 500 species, monkeys' brains grew the most over time followed by horses, dolphins, camels and dogs. Considering the belief that dogs are as smart as most toddlers, I am not surprised by this study at all! Most dogs have a vocabulary of 200 words!

What do you think? Are you surprised that dogs are smarter than cats?

Momo here. This last year has been a crazy one! I turned one, my people got me a TON of new beds, and I've been a travelling machine! I am living the good life. Example: if I want a treat, all I have to do is sit my butt down! Really... all I have to do is sit down! Here are some other cool things that happened in 2010.

Dogs (and their people) from all over the country donated their fur to help clean up the worst oil spill in US history. Matter of Trust, located in San Francisco (that's where I'm from!) collected fur (and that stringy stuff on top of peoples heads) and sent it to the Gulf Coast to help with alternative ways to clean up the spill.

Lada gaga wore a dress made completely of treats! I almost jumped through the TV when I saw her on the MTV music awards. I'm drooling thinking about it....Mmmm.... Meat....

Humans got sucked into some Snooki monster from the Jersey Shore. I don't know about you, but humans watch some weird things on TV. If I had my way, we would keep Marmaduke on repeat all day....

This year, we also watched a human get REALLY excited about a double rainbow (his tail must have been wagging like crazy) and another human telling someone to "hide your kids, hide your wife".Don't know what was so funny, but they made my people laugh.For me - this is my favorite by far! I'm not a big dancer and I definitely don't like to wear dresses - but this blonde can definitely pull it off!

Another cool thing about 2010? My people started making all of these awesome beds - and I get to try whichever ones I want! Can't wait to see what 2011 brings...

Happy New Year!

xoxo, Momo

1) They WANT to work out with you!

I don't know about you, but there have been plenty of times when I have slept through my alarm or have just been too tired to workout. With dogs - they almost always want to go for a walk or run! My pup can be sleeping like a rock but the second she hears her leash jingle - she is up and ready to roll!

2) They are flexible!

Workout partners generally have a schedule to adhere to; work, family, school, you name it. With a dog, they are always on your schedule. Whether you are a morning or night person, I'm pretty sure their schedule is open. Also, you don't have to have a gym membership to workout with your pup. A bike, rollerblades, or even just your tennis shoes are more than enough! My husband loves to go rollerblading with our mix-breed, she could pull and pull forever! For me, I like to take her on leisurely walks around the neighborhood. Either way, she's game.

Thank Dog Bootcamp in Northern California has a great program to help people and their pets stay in shape. With both certified dog trainers and personal trainers on staff, they help obedience train your dog while you get your workout on!  Brilliant! AND if you don't have a dog, you can borrow one of theirs!

3) By working out, you are keeping them healthy too!

Just like humans, obesity in dogs is a huge health risk. Between 25-40% of the canine population is considered obese or overweight; one study even found that number to be 83%! What many don't realize is that excess weight can also lead to diabetes, heart problems and joint issues (among a number of other things) for dogs. Overweight dogs also tend to live shorter lives.

Dogs need healthy diets and daily exercise to stay in top shape just like people. Treats are always welcome - just in moderation. If your dog is a little on the lazy side - you can help them with their New Year resolution too!

From the recommendation of her trainer, we feed Momo Dick Van Pattens Natural Balance dry dog kibble. Like the name, their products are all  natural and do not include any artificial colors or dyes. Natural Balance has a wide range of products with over 12 dry kibble recipes, 15 canned recipes and all of their soft dog food rolls too! You can find them in boutique and large chain stores nationwide, for more information check out their website here.

Momo will eat anything and everything that appears edible, but she particularly loves these Wellness brand WellBites. We think it's because as a puppy, she would get these in her training classes as a reward. Or it could be the fact that they are made with real ingredients that she loves (two types of meat!) and has no fillers like corn or soy. The WellBites come in five different flavors, but Momo's favorite is the chicken and venison recipe. Check out their website here for more of their great products.

Who doesn't love to eat in style? These raised feeding bowls from Pottery Barn not only look good, but they make feeding time more comfortable for your pet as well! Check them out here.

Even though another holiday season has passed, you can still treat your dog throughout the whole year! Check out our post from Thanksgiving for a yummy turkey loaf recipe. Here's to a great 2011!

Who doesn't love puppies? They are adorable, loveable and just so irresistable - all things that make them great presents... right? If you are thinking of gifting a puppy this year for the holidays, make sure you have considered all of these things before hand.

Does the person REALLY want a dog?

Some dogs can live up to 20+ years, making them a serious commitment. That's 20 years of food, pooper scoops, daily exercise, and vet visits. Although surprising someone with a puppy might seem like a great idea, make sure you've talked to them about it.

Can they really take care of a dog?

Many parents gift their children puppies for special occasions. And many don't quite understand the responsibility that comes along with it. Younger children often won't be able to take on the responsibility of feeding, walking and training until they are much older. While I love the idea of having puppies and kids grow up together, just know that these responsibilities will be the parents (along with the bills) until the kids are older. 

Do you know where the puppy is coming from?

Since puppies are very popular during the holiday season, this can create an influx in puppy mill breeding. Many of these poorly bred dogs have health problems and aren't socialized - they also end up in pet stores and malls. The reputable breeders generally wouldn't be able (or willing) to keep up with the high demand during Christmas. When purchasing a puppy, consider the alternatives - there are thousands of good dogs sitting in shelters, waiting for their forever home.

If you've considered all of these things, and you're ready for a puppy - congratulations!

Search for a reputable breeder, rescue group or shelter and make sure to ask lots of questions. After all, this pet will be a family member for years (even decades) to come. Responsible animal organizations make it a priority to know who and where their animals are going to, so anticipate an adoption questionaire and even a home check.

Additionally, no need to gift wrap the puppy - they're cute enough as is. If you have the urge to wrap something, they'll need a food and water bowl, a collar, leash, food and even a dog bed. We can definitely  help with the bed part - check out our website and take advantage or our Grand Opening Special while it lasts.

Happy Holidays!

Always being comfortable with new people, Momo was in heaven from the moment Nichole walked in. Toys, treats and a huge smile in tow, Momo thought she had just met her new BFF. The way Nichole was able to capture Momo's personality and quirkiness in each picture was amazing - we couldn't have been happier with the results.

With Christmas right around the corner, a pet photography session is a great gift for the animal lover in your life. Your photos will be a beautiful keepsake that you can decorate your home with. We were so happy with our photos from Dane + Dane, we asked Nichole to help us with all of our P.L.A.Y. photos as well. Make sure to check out Dane + Dane Studios on their website here. If you're on a tight budget, another great option is to print your own pet photos onto a canvas. Canvas On Demand will take your home photos, print them, gallery wrap them and ship them to you quickly - all for a great price! Check out their pet showcase here.

After a long day of photos, Momo sure does get tired! Make sure to check out our Facebook page and enter our contest to win your pet one of our super-comfy beds!

To keep you, your dog and your guests from freaking out whenever they come over - here are some tips to keep your dog calm.

Perfect the "Stay" Command

When friends and family visit, it's really important that your pup understand the meaning of stay. Pick a designated stay spot for whenever anyone rings the doorbell. Make sure to practice this - and not just with people you live with. It's important to switch up the people who practice the doorbell stay, so your dog understands they need to behave whenever anyone comes over.

Have your helper ring the doorbell multiple times, once your dog relaxes and stops barking - reward them. This is the perfect time to bring out the good stuff - for my dog it's special chicken jerky. Positive reinforcement is always welcome.

Don't yell at your dog

It's easy to get frustrated and want your dog to listen but to them, when you yell it's like you're joining in on the fun. Keep calm and speak firmly but quietly.

Make barking at the door an unpleasant experience

If you've practiced over and over, and have given your dog 'the good stuff' for positive reinforcement - but it STILL isn't working... try making the experience unpleasurable for them. A spray bottle is perfect for this situation. Similar to bitter apple to prevent puppies from teething, spraying a little water in their face when they charge the door can deter your dog from the urge.

Train your visitors on when and how to say hello to your dog

It's important that your visitors know to ignore any bad behavior and to only say hello when your pup is calm. Make sure they don't greet or pet if your dog if he is jumping or barking. Having a welcoming spot for visitors to greet your dog is a great way to reinforce positive behavior. This can be your stay spot, a mat, bed or even just a spot in your house. For us, it's the couch. Give a little, take a little, right?

With some patience and practice, your doorbell terrorizer can turn into a polite pooch in no time.

In our last post, we talked about how much Momo likes to play. But Momo can definitely be a sassy, girly-girl too. While she doesn't really like to wear jackets or clothes, she definitely doesn't like the rain or being cold even more!

We've actually purchased her quite a few sweaters and jackets, but we always end up putting her in the Puppia jacket we bought earlier this year. We searched a few large chain stores and finally found these adorable jackets at a local boutique. Puppia, an Australian based company,  has multiple lines of sweaters, harnesses and jackets- they even make dresses and holiday outfits! Their great selection and quality design is why we decided to go with one of their jackets for Momo. Their website is wholesale only - so check out your local dog boutiques to see if they carry Puppia's products!

After a long day of playing, Momo definitely loves to relax. When giving her a trip to the spa (AKA bathtub), the most important thing for her is warm water. She could sit there forever, so long as the water never got cold.

We recently got her a great new shampoo that she not only loves but we love the way it smells too! Happy Tails is a great company that creates all natural and cruelty free products for modern dogs. And according to Momo, she is DEFINITELY a modern dog. Bubbles 'n Beads is a great two-in-one shampoo that makes Momo's fur noticably softer and keeps her smelling great for days! You can check out all of their great products on their website here.

After a long day of pampering, Momo loves to do what every other dog loves to do too - sleep. Her favorite bed is her pink Tuck Me In bed. Check out our Facebook page for a chance to win one! Ready to buy? We're also giving our Facebook fans an additional $5 dollars off of our whole P.L.A.Y. collection! Get the coupon code here.

I always love seeing videos of dogs and animals that have completely integrated into a family's 'pack'. I came across this one a few months ago and it still brings a smile to my face. This sweet husky mix soothes a crying baby while another husky is watching close by - I love the idea that one day when I have kids, they will get to experience unconditonal love not just from me but my dog as well. Check out the video below! 

Does  your dog have any special quirks when it comes to your kids or family members? We'd love to hear about - leave a comment below!

Dane + Dane photography is the brain child of amazing photographer, Nichole Smith. A dog lover and entrepreneur, Nichole was recently featured on Brand Maker News as one of the top five female entrepreneurs you should know.  While juggling her two companies (she also co-founded the super-cute company, Dog is Good, with Jon and Gila Kurtz) Nichole (AKA Superwoman) has been planning her own wedding and is the mother of two dogs, Olivia the Great Dane and Charleston the Frenchie.

Nichole is actually the mastermind behind all of the amazing photos on our website (see her blog feature about the photo shoot here) and has been helping P.L.A.Y. with our launch. We originally met Nichole when she came to do our own personal photo shoot with Momo (see photos here). We loved her work and how our photos turned out, so we asked for her help with our product shoot as well – and voila! Amazing, right?

Nichole was kind enough to announce the launch of our website on her blog in addition to her other features on P.L.A.Y.- you can read the post here. Thank you Nichole for all of your amazing work and help!

Recently, Phetched.com also featured P.L.A.Y. on their website (you can check out the post here)! Known for “tracking down the coolest dog stuff … and offering up a daily dog treat” for their readers, Phetched dubbed P.L.A.Y. as “the cure for the common pet bed”. 

Owner and writer of Phetched, Katherine (and her two sidekicks, Mingus and Dottie) regularly updates her page with the newest and coolest pet products available. We frequent the site often and she always has special deals and promos listed. 

Make sure to check out Phetched and be prepared to sit and stay for awhile –you are definitely bound to dig up something you like. Thank you Katherine for featuring P.L.A.Y. on your site!

Momo, a seven year old, brown and white, long haired Chihuahua, has become one of Japan’s newest police dogs. She is one of the 32 successful candidates (out of 70), who has passed a search and rescue test by finding a person in five minutes after sniffing only their hat. Momo is an ideal search and rescue dog for emergency situations, like earthquakes, because she may be able to squeeze her little body into places that most other police dogs would not fit into. She officially starts her new job this upcoming January!  Congratulations Momo! Check out this adorable clip of Momo in action from ITN news.

Momo loves to play. We've gotten her almost every toy under the sun; and she never ceases to make us smile. We love challenging her and seeing how she figures things out– so we always try to buy her intellectual toys. Now that it’s December and Christmas is only 24 days away, we wanted to share a few of Momo’s favorite toys to help give you some ideas when you are shopping for your pups this holiday season!    

Kyjen's Hide a Squirrel toy

Ridiculously cute, this toy comes with a tree log and three squeaky little squirrels. By hiding the squirrels inside the tree log, this toy challenges and entertains your pup - encouraging them to find and remove the squirrels over and over again. As you can see from this picture, Momo loves hunting for squirrels!

Kyjen has a whole line of plush puzzle toys - including their Snake in the Grass, Tough Turtle and a Magic Hat with rabbits! Looks like Momo has a lot on her wish list!

Recently, I came across a great website (In the Company of Dogs) that also offers great intellectual toys for dogs. If your pup has a habit of de-stuffing toys, these are probably a better option. 

These interactive puzzle toys require dogs to use their nose and paws to find treats that you hide inside. If your dogs are anything like Momo, then they definitely LOVE treats! They are $49.95 for the plastic toys and $69.95 for the wooden ones. These awesome toys are likely to entertain and occupy your dog for years to come. 

Momo also loves to romp around outside. We just pop open her P.L.A.Y. tunnel and she runs around in circles. Right now we’re offering 15% off all of our products, so you can get one for $50! Check them out on our site.

Does your dog have any of these toys? Leave a comment - we'd love to hear your stories and see your pictures!

This Thanksgiving, we definitely showed Momo how thankful we are to have her in our lives. Unfortunately there are millions of dogs that are not as lucky. We know that every dog can’t be adopted over the holiday season but we wanted to highlight some of the great things people can do to help out needy dogs this Thanksgiving.

Since Thanksgiving is this week, our first Momo Monday is all about the special ways you can show your beloved four-legged friend that you are thankful for them.

We all hear it - don't feed your dog any table scraps, but we figure as long as you know what foods to avoid and your dog doesn't have any food allergies or digestive issues - a few treats here and there (especially on turkey day) will be a welcome surprise for your pup.

Dogs want to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner too!

If you have time, a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving with your dog is to make them a special meal ahead of time and serve it to them while you enjoy your dinner. Here’s a great recipe that your dog is sure to love. Turkey Loaf Dinner Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground turkey

• 1/2 cup cooked peas and carrots

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1/2 cup canned low-fat gravy

Preparation

• Grease a loaf pan; set aside.

• In a large bowl mix turkey, vegetables, eggs and rice. Put into pan.

• Pour the gravy over the loaf and bake in a preheated oven at 350° for 1 hour or until nicely browned on top.

• Cool and serve.

Another great way to give your pet a treat is to mix in some goodies straight into their kibble. Even though Momo is really good about eating her food, we know she'll be sniffing around the table when the turkey comes out of the oven. We'll be sure to add some chopped pieces of turkey (no skin or bones), cooked carrots and peas and a spoon full of gravy to make her Thanksgiving meal a real treat.

Keep your pup’s tummy happy

Although Thanksgiving is one of those days everyone stuffs themselves silly - be careful to not overfeed your pup. A little turkey meat and veggies are fine (on occasion), but just be sure to avoid these:

• Alcoholic beverages

• Avocado

• Chocolate (all forms)

• Coffee (all forms)

• Fatty foods

• Macadamia nuts

• Moldy or spoiled foods

• Onions, onion powder

• Raisins and grapes

• Salt

• Yeast dough

• Garlic

• Artificial sweeteners

In the event your dog does eat something toxic - Don't panic. If your dog seems normal, but you are pretty sure they ingested something toxic, call your veterinarian¡ or the Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.

Full bellies, heavy eyelids

We all know how tired we get with a belly full of turkey. Make sure to check out our website for our full selection of dog beds – you’re sure to find one that will be the perfect place for your dog to take a nap. Just ask Momo, she loves hers.

Momo managed to change not only our day to day lives, but also our perspective. Our mornings were never the same again. It always brought a smile to our faces when we’d wake up to her little grunts and snores, with her warm fuzzy body curled up next to us. Even though we loved sharing our bed with Momo, we wanted to give her a one of her own. We spent weeks hunting for the perfect bed but soon found that many were just not up to snuff. 

That’s when we realized we could do better. 

We decided to start from scratch and in the process we developed a new way of looking at things. We made it our goal to create comfortable beds without sacrificing style. We partnered with local artists in San Francisco and worked closely with them to create designs not just for dogs but for the dog lovers as well. At the same time, we examined countless types of materials and fabrics to ensure that our dog beds aren’t just pleasing to the eye, but durable and good for Mother Nature as well. 

Looking back, it’s amazing to think that the day we introduced Momo into our lives was the beginning of a new chapter for us. Our love for her inspired us to create P.L.A.Y. 

At P.L.A.Y. we don’t just make ordinary dog beds, we make beds for beloved four- legged family members, and we hope that’s something you feel when your dog goes to sleep every night.