Got an active FIDO? Try a pair of Vionic’s

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Got an active FIDO? Try a pair of Vionic’s

May 16, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

If Fido is an active member of the family and likes to pal around with you, try on a pair of Vionic’s when it’s sandal time!

Orthaheel, the internationally recognized, podiatrist- designed footwear and orthotics brand, introduces its new Vionic line of sports recovery sandals. Many common athletic pains and injuries often occur from poor lower limb alignment.

You and Fido may be armchair athlete’s or perhaps you are weekend warriors, but rest assured your feet will be loving walking the dog in these extremely comfortable sandals after a game of fetch or a night with the remote.

The Vionic line ranges in price from $89.95 to $99.95 and is available at www.orthaheelusa.com and select retail outlets throughout the U.S.

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Orthaheel and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments

ASPCA Offers Safety Tips in Response to Recent Pet Food Recalls

May 16, 2012 • Health & Wellness
by Susan Sims

Important factors to consider for the protection of all family members

In response to the recent spike in pet food recalls, the ASPCA®’s (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) Animal Poison Control Center has some suggestions on how to best keep two-legged and four-legged family members safe:

• Do your research. Salmonella is the contaminant that appears to be the cause of concern during this most recent round of pet food recalls. The most important thing for pet owners to do if they suspect their dog’s food has been contaminated is to stop feeding their pet the recalled food immediately. If the pet shows signs of illness after eating a recalled pet food, a trip to the vet should be first on the list of to-dos, and then the food manufacturer should be notified. Pet owners can identify the recalled foods by visiting the FDA’s website at www.fda.gov.

• Know the signs. While healthy adult dogs are relatively resistant to illness from Salmonella bacteria, pets with health issues (such as young puppies, elderly and pregnant dogs that could have compromised immune systems) may be at greater risk for becoming ill. Dogs who are affected by Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and drooling or panting—an indication of nausea. In severe cases, the bacterium may spread throughout the body resulting in death.

• Clean is key. Salmonella isn’t only dangerous to the pet eating the food, but could also affect the pet parent serving the food. Salmonella can be spread through direct contact with the affected product and animal feces, so exposure should be avoided. The best way to protect family members, including other animals in the home, is to thoroughly wash your hands (or paws) after any dealings with the product or feces. In addition, all bowls, utensils and surfaces that may have come in contact with contaminated food should be washed using hot soapy water and rinsed thoroughly or sanitized in the dishwasher.

For more information about the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center and potential pet toxins, visit www.aspca.org/apcc.

About the ASPCA® Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit.

For more information, please visit www.aspca.org. To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/aspca.

PETching! is at it again!

May 06, 2012 • Most Popular
by Susan Sims

They had such a great response from FIDO Friendly subscribers that they decided to "up the ante" a bit and run this special again! This time, for the first 3,000 subscribers, they will give another $5 in PETching! bucks and give you the opportunity to share the code with your family and friends! The coupon code for you to use and share is: FIDO5.

Also, they’ve implemented a "Share and Save" program. If you share a deal, you'll get an additional $0.25 off per share (up to 5 shares). PLUS! They will double that for each person that signs up! That's an additional $2.50 off ANY deal just for sharing!

Wait, there's more! For each person that purchases the deal that you share, you'll get an additional $10 in PETching!bucks! There are some great deals that are going on right now: $5 for $25 towards Dog Rotations Pet Food Rotations Pack (3-5lb. bags of pet food); $2 for $10 to spend at DogCollarBoutique.com; and the famous PediPaws Nail Trimmer for 59% off the regular price!

The possibilities are endless at PETching.com. So remember, check them out and get your family and friends to sign up today at www.PETching.com today and think "CHA-CHING"!

Jack and Jill went up the hill to fetch a Kurgo® Wander Pail.

May 04, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

Our good friends at Kurgo® have done it again. This time visiting a local yard sale where they found an antique lunch box inspired them. With some research, they learned that the lunch box traveled to America with Cornish miners. Special in design, it contained two and sometimes three compartments, each with a different purpose. Enter the stainless steel Kurgo® Wander Pail.

I love the looks of the pail, it easily fits in with my dogs ‘stuff.’ The combination of stainless steel against a beautiful blue gets a lot of attention when we travel.

The nesting dog pail allows you to bring food for Fido where ever you go. With 2 bowls packed into one, you can easily store necessary nourishment and never have to bring an extra dog bowl again. The pail itself acts as the carrying case, with an inset removable bowl. The screw on lid and handle make for easy toting. Made with dishwasher safe stainless steel, the BPA-free bowls are available in small and large and are insulated for raw food diets. The pails are stain, rust and corrosion resistant for long-term use.

View the complete line of Kurgo® pet travel products at kurgo.com

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Kurgo® and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

Surrounded by Water and Lots of Drops to Drink

May 03, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

What do Raspberry Rollover, Blueberry Bark and Strawberry Sit have in common? Why they are all 100% natural water for your pet brought to you by Doggiwater.™ I have stayed away from tap water for both my dogs and myself and have always traveled with bottled water, as this is what I give them at home.

Traveling to different locations and using local water can upset your dog’s digestion. By the use of ultra purified water and premium natural ingredients, Doggiwater™ reduces your dog’s exposure to harmful contaminants while replacing them with essential vitamins and minerals they need to maintain a healthy balanced diet. Doggiwater™produces a vitamin beverage that promotes strong immune system, healthy teeth, gums and fresh breath. My boys enjoy each flavor and I feel great giving them something that is so good for them. PLUS I can drink it too! Single bottle $1.99; Six pack $14.99 doggiwater.com.

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Doggiwater™ and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

On Your Mark, Get Set, Coupon for Shelter Animals!

May 02, 2012 • Rescue

Before the third season of TLC’s Extreme Couponing premieres on May 28, the ASPCA is issuing a challenge to animal lovers everywhere and FIDO Friendly is giving it TWO PAWS UP: Use your bargain-shopping skills to help your local animal shelter!

The fact is, many animal shelters are in constant need of supplies. Purchasing items will not only help their daily operations, but also improve the lives of animals in their care. So, go ahead, whip out your scissors and start clipping coupons (and shopping!) for shelter pets!

Learn more by visiting the ASPCA website: http://aspca.org/news/extreme-couponing

Have you entered yet? Win The Swanx Hand Painted Leather Clog and Tennis Shoes

May 02, 2012 • Product Reviews

Imagine wearing a posh pair of shoes that are so divine, so eye catching, and so skillfully crafted that you can’t imagine how you ever got by without them. AND they feature hand paintings of your precious canine family member!

The Swanx is the Original Hand Painted Clog Company. All of their leather clogs come from Denmark and are then painted by local artists in the Seattle/Tacoma area.

What is amazing about pet portraits is that the artists have to work on a curved surface with the shoe. It's not as easy as paining on a flat piece of material. Also, the paints are very specific to leather and not easy to mix up the perfect colors but The Swanx does it!

Seeing is truly believing so check out the Swanx website at: http://www.TheSwanx.com/ as well as the YouTube video showcasing our publishers two dogs, Jake and Junior. http://youtu.be/CmNWagk8H7w

Swanx is waggingly offering TWO lucky FIDO Friendly fans the opportunity to win a pair of these custom made shoes featuring your dog!

What can you win? The Swanx will give away 2 (two) pairs of hand painted pet portrait shoes including:

One pair of leather Sanita clogs value $199.95
One pair canvas Zipz tennis shoes value $149.95

How do you win? There are two ways to win:

In 50 words or less, write why you want to win a pair of Swanx shoes using the word Swanx. Entries without the word Swanx in it will be disqualified, so be sure to use the word Swanx.
Or
"Pin it to win it" on The Swanx’s Pinterest page. Simply post a picture of your dog to the Swanx Pinterest page and then post a link in this thread to prove you posted a picture to Swanx’s Pinterest site.

When does it start and end? The contest starts now. The contest ends at 11:59 pm Eastern time zone on May 31 2012. FIDO Friendly staff and their families are not eligible to win.

What are we judged on? Two random winners.

Can my friends and family play? Sure! The more the merrier. We love to see tails wagging here at FIDO Friendly, so spread the word and make your voice heard. One entry per person, please.

What if I win? Winner will be announced on this blog post and on the FIDO Friendly Facebook fan page within 5 days of contest closing date. Winner has 7 days to reply to us or another winner(s) will be selected. Please remember to come back after the contest closes to see if you have won.

Blythe Danner and The Lucky One ~ Fido Friendly Summer Issue Interview SNEAK PEAK!

May 02, 2012 • Most Popular
by Susan Sims

Blythe Danner costars in the new movie, The Lucky One. Here is a sneak peek of the interview appearing in the Summer issue of FIDO Friendly magazine.

FF: Did you enjoy making The Lucky One?

BD: I am happy in The Lucky One that I have a really nice role; she is a little more 3 dimensional. She is not a comic role but she does have nice witty things to say, along with Zach Efron and my friend Taylor Shilling.

FF: I saw a photo of you and a huge dog from the film!

BD: I think he was a mastiff I worked with the most; he used to come up and just lean on me. They tell me they have delicate hips when they are that big.

FF: Tell us more about your character, Ellie.

BD: My character sort of weaves in and out; she’s a rather very loving grandmother but has been around a long time and knows a thing or two, not at all shy to be a little snarky. Enjoyed playing her a lot, adored the part with the dogs.

To read more about Blythe Danner and additional interview with dog trainer, Boone Mar, be sure to read the Summer issue of FIDO Friendly magazine on newsstands June 15^th. Check out the YouTube interview trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsv8ccF0fps

Let’s Get Physical!

May 01, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

Time to walk the dog and kill two birds with one shoe! You know Fido loves his daily walk(s) and you will too once you try the Balance Lace Up Walker by Dr. Andrew Weil. Weil Integrative Footwear can help relieve common conditions such as heel, knee, back and leg pain. The removable orthotic footbed helps your foot attain optimal efficiency, aligned and in balance wherever you go. Most comfortable shoes I have worn in a long time. You can take the 28-day walking challenge that Dr. Weil is promoting by visiting this website: http://www.weilbeing.com/2012virtualtea This global digital event kicked off a nationwide Walkabout campaign, led by 50 brand ambassadors from across the United States, to put a public spotlight on walking for physical and emotional health. No wonder Fido looks so happy after his walk! $129.95. http://www.weilbeing.com/balance-lace-up-walker.html

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Weil Integrative Footwear and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

Hofsas House

April 16, 2012 • Travel

Everybody needs a break, including your four-legged friend! Bring your dog for a minimum of a two-night stay at the dog-friendly Hofsas House and chase your blues away. Hofsas House makes it easy with a great rate, an in-room bed for your furry friend and a special Frisbee to take to beautiful Carmel Beach.

Hofsas House is located in Carmel-by-the-Sea and has one of the most Fido-friendly hotels around. The hotel even has its own pet concierge – a Lab named Cajun. Bring your four-legged friend between April 1, 2012 and December 21, 2012 and all dogs receive their own gifts including a Frisbee and special treat to start their vacation.

You also receive a complementary doggie welcome package upon arrival including:

Hofsas House Dog Frisbee
Special Dog Bed
Letter from their onsite Pet Concierge, Cajun
Tips and recommendations for your four legged friends stay
A package of treats
Costal Canine Magazine – offering the best four-legged options for visiting Carmel
A special amenity package from California Pup that includes shampoo or fresh coat mist
There is a $25 fee per night for one dog and a $40 fee per night for two dogs

Click here to visit the Hofsas House webiste.

Landmark Court Decision In North America Where Temporary ‘Custody’ Of Pets Is Awarded

April 10, 2012 • Trends

Are pets just property – or part of the family? In a recent landmark decision, a judge awarded temporary custody of a couple’s two dogs to one of the parties, following the breakup of their relationship. And the person awarded custody was not the one who had originally purchased and registered the pets.

In its decision, the court specifically referred to a popular book on estate planning for pets. Fat Cats and Lucky Dogs is a comprehensive guide to how pet owners can ensure a pet is protected if its owner becomes ill or passes away. It’s co-authored by Toronto lawyer, Barry Seltzer, and Texas Tech law professor, Gerry W. Beyer.

In explaining his decision, Judge Joel Shaw noted how the internationally recognized book presented a wide range of information on pet ownership, pet trusts, and the expanding body of law regarding the status of pets. These advances in “pet law” allowed for the protection of companion animals, and elevated their status beyond that of mere personal property.

In a personal thank-you to the authors, the plaintiff wrote, “Although I know you wrote it as a book about estate planning, it came in very handy for me in small claims court last week… The judge awarded me interim sole ownership of the puppies…. He quoted several things from your book, which I feel really helped him make his judgement.”

The decision in Coulthard v Lawrence, handed down by Shaw, D.J. is possibly the only court decision in North America where, in a lawsuit about pets that lived with a couple who were cohabiting, “temporary ‘custody” was awarded to one of the litigants. The companion animals in this case were male and female mixed Great Dane Brittany Spaniels named Baron and Tessa.

And as a possible happy ending, the plaintiff’s intends to attempt a shared custody arrangement – because it might be best for the puppies!

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

April 10, 2012 • Rescue

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month, and each year, the ASPCA urges supporters across the country to support our efforts and Go Orange for Animals in honor of the signing of the ASPCA's charter in 1866. Throughout the month, the ASPCA will be encouraging theirmembers to show their support by donning our signature color and going orange for animals. Please join the ASPCA and FIDO Friendly for this month-long celebration of our victories in the fight against animal cruelty.

So How Do You “Go Orange” for Animals?
It’s fun to go orange—and the more creative you get, the more fun it is! Orange is a vibrant, energetic color that most people find inspiring. So use it joyfully to show the world you care about animals during the month of April! We’ve provided the following ideas and suggestions on how you can go orange in your community, classroom, business, library, website, etc.! Whether you organize a pet parade in your neighborhood, get your town hall to light up in orange or decorate your car with orange paint—we thank you for being a vision in orange and helping the ASPCA spread the word about preventing cruelty to animals.

Learn more by visiting the ASPCA website: http://www.aspca.org/about-us/aspca-april/

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

Hug Your Dog Day is April 10th

April 10, 2012 • Trends

Do you and your dog love to hug? You're not alone. According to a recent survey* of U.S. dog owners, which was conducted on behalf of Beneful Baked Delights dog snacks, more than two-thirds (68 percent) of those surveyed hug their four-legged friends more often than certain people in their lives. Further, 30 percent of the dog owners surveyed say they hug their dogs more than their relatives and one quarter (26 percent) say that the hug their dogs more than their best friends!

On April 10, 2012, dog owners across the country are invited to share the power of a furry hug by participating in the first-ever Beneful® Baked Delights(TM) Hug Your Dog Day. The virtual Hug Fest, which is designed to celebrate the love we share with our dogs and the launch of the new dog snack line, is taking place on the Beneful brand Facebook page (Facebook.com/Beneful) beginning at 9:00 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, April 10.

To kick-off the day's celebration, Eric Stonestreet, dog lover and Emmy Award-winning actor on the hit TV show "Modern Family," and his 12-year-old rescue dog Coleman Hawkins, are sharing the first official hug in a fun video featured on the Facebook page.

"Coleman just brings out the hug in me," said Stonestreet. "We are best buddies and have so much fun together which is why we are excited to share the first hug to kick-off Beneful Baked Delights Hug Your Dog Day. Of course, sometimes he plays hard to get, in which case I'll have to bribe him with one of these tasty new dog snacks."

Beneful® Baked Delights(TM) Hug Your Dog Day Details

There are a number of ways dog lovers can participate in Beneful Baked Delights Hug Your Dog Day on April 10. One way is to upload a photo of you hugging your dog to the Beneful Facebook page. You can also tweet, post on Facebook or post an Instagram photo with a caption that includes the hashtag #hugyourdog. For a complete list of all the ways "hugs" will be tracked online, visit the Beneful Facebook page. A Hug-o-Meter on the page will track the total number of "hugs" received throughout the day.

Savings coupons for new Beneful® Baked Delights(TM) dog snacks will be made available to the first 12,000 people to post a "hug" photo, Facebook status update, or tweet using the Beneful Hug Your Dog Day Facebook application on April 10. An additional batch of 63,000 coupons will be made available once 25,000 cumulative 'hugs' from around the Web, including special location check-ins and tagged Instagram photos, has been met. More information is available at Facebook.com/Beneful.

"We know how much happiness dog owners get from hugging their four-legged best friends and we wanted to celebrate this with our first-ever virtual Hug Fest," said Katy Laciny, Beneful Baked Delights brand manager. "Our new dog snack line offers dog owners a new way to 'hug' their dogs with a special, everyday snacking experience."

Beneful Baked Delights are crafted with high quality ingredients and oven-baked with love. They come in four fun, mouth-watering varieties including Hugs, Quacks, Stars and Snackers. More here: http://www.beneful.com/Dog-Snacks/

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

Dog book review: Chasing Bocker’s Tale

April 05, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Carol Bryant

Tale as old as time, true as it can be.

Part of the lyrics from Beauty and the Beast resonated to me when I read Chasing Bocker’s Tale, a lovely story that weaves life lessons and Bocker-isms (who is a gorgeous Labradoodle) into prose so fittingly tail wagging.

This is a read for kids and adults of all ages; without being cliché, I smiled throughout. The imagery is just as important, as we the reader get to experience the life force that is Bocker.

All of our dogs are special. What made Bocker’s mom and crew go to work on this book and tell the story of this extra special pooch is classic: Bocker has starred in national ads and television commercials but he also helps shelters and rescues, children in need, and people from all walks of life. He is a celebri-dog in more ways than one. He also graces the pages of FIDO Friendly magazine’s next issue.

Most enjoyable is the narration, so cleverly told by Bocker. The chapter about the Rainbow Bridge is so heartfelt, having loved and lost a special dog of my own. To “hear” Bocker experience grief, from his vantage point, was both refreshing and enlightening. If you’ve ever wondered what a dog might feel when losing someone special, Bocker can fill you in.

Of course, rambunctious ramblings and mutterings are all included, so expect to smile, laugh, and ponder as you turn the pages. There is something so joyful about holding a book, tenderly touching the pages as they enter your heart, and this is one of those “keepers” for the bookshelf of life… just like Bocker himself: A Keeper.

From now until April 17, enter to win a copy by visiting http://www.fidofriendly.com/contests/win-a-copy-of-chasing-bockers-tale

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by book publisher (or Bocker) and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

LeashLocket for dogs: FIDO Friendly Product Review

April 05, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Carol Bryant

Imagine a leash that your dog actually carries, is safe and effective, weighs under three ounces, and fits snugly and securely on your dog’s collar. Oh, and did we mention the lock withstands a pull force of 135 pounds with an extension of 6 feet for the small dog version (up to 55 pounds) and the lock withstands a pull force of up to 200 pounds for the larger dogs (up to 90 pounds).

The LeashLocket is unlike any retractable leash I’ve tested. Snap the collar attachment around your pooch’s existing collar or harness with the rivet facing outward. Check.

Then attach the actual LeashLocket, snapping the magnet to the rivet and pressing the “brake” button, as you would with a retractable leash. Lock it forward and the locket stays securely in place. After grasping the LeashLocket, simply unlock the brake button and pill away from the dog’s collar attachment. While out walking your dog, you just press the brake button to lock it at any length up to 6 feet. That’s it.

Magnetic collar attachments are included and the ergonomic design and feel of the LeashLocket felt good in my hand, not bulky or cumbersome.

I used this while away from home with my dog recently and took a traditional leash with me for backup. I never strayed from the LeashLocket. Double bonus: It weighs under 3 ounces and is nicely priced.

Note: For miniature and/or toy breeds, owners of dogs weighing less than 15 pounds use LeashLocket with a harness rather than a collar according to the company. When used with a harness, dogs carry LeashLocket on their backs rather than underneath their neck areas, where LeashLocket could be cumbersome for some miniature and toy dog breeds.

Learn more about LeashLocket at: http://www.leashlocket.com/ Check out the video of the product in action by scrolling down.

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by LeashLocket and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

LeashLocket - Retractable Leash - Let your dog carry the leash for a change!

http://www.leashlocket.com/leashlocket-products/ LeashLocket™ is the revolutionary, retractable leash in a locket that lets your dog carry the leash for a change. Enjoy hands-free convenience when LeashLocket™ is snapped securely to the magnetic atta

Is Your Pet Protected? National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

April 05, 2012 • Health & Wellness

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals, is raising awareness about the importance of pet safety and encouraging pet parents to create first aid kits in order to be prepared for pet emergencies.

In honor of Pet First Aid Awareness month this April, NAPPS is urging pet parents to organize a first aid kit and establish a safety plan for handling pet-related accidents and emergencies. Pet parents are also encouraged to create a check list to help their children, in the event that they are dealing with a pet accident on their own. Preparing your family to respond to pet emergencies will help reduce panic and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

“Pet parents can reduce the impact and severity of an accident by equipping their homes and cars with proper first aid and emergency kits for their pets,” said John D’Ariano, President of NAPPS. “Pet first aid kits should be easily accessible at all times and restocked with supplies regularly.”

NAPPS encourages pet parents to be proactive and emphasizes building a first aid kit with the following items, as recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA):

Phone numbers for your veterinarian, emergency veterinary clinic, Animal Poison Control Center (there may be a fee for this call)
Gauze for wrapping wounds
Nonstick bandages, towels, or strips of clean cloth to control bleeding or protect wounds
Adhesive tape for bandages for securing gauze wrap
Milk of magnesia or activated charcoal to absorb poison
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) to induce vomiting
Digital fever thermometer to check temperature
Eye dropper to give oral treatments or flush wound
Muzzle to cover your pet’s head, only if he or she is not vomiting
Leash to transport your pet if he or she can walk without further injury

NAPPS reminds pet parents that accidents can occur at the most unlikely times. An ordinary walk in the park can result in an allergic reaction to a bee sting and even the most playful pet interactions can quickly turn unfriendly or dangerous. The best way for pet parents to determine if a pet is suffering from an injury or needs medical attention is to evaluate and observe its behavior. When in doubt, pet parents are urged to contact their veterinarian for an expert opinion.

Pets that have been injured often need special attention and monitoring to ensure a speedy recovery. Professional pet sitters are able to provide the additional care your pet needs, allowing you the flexibility to return to your regular routine.

NAPPS encourages pet parents to contact their local American Red Cross chapter and enroll in a pet first aid course. For additional safety tips, visit www.petsitters.org.

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

FIDO Friendly magazine "What to Pack in Fido's First Aid Kit"

Items to pack in a dog's first aid kit from the basics to the more unique.

Open invitation to all dog lovers: Ultimate social networking conference and contest

April 05, 2012 • Travel
by Carol Bryant

Question: What do you get when you cross hundreds of animal lovers with several panel discussions, toss in prizes and giveaways galore, and then gingerly shake (not stir) a community of giving guardians helping homeless pets?

Answer: You’ve got BlogPaws, the visionary and progressive-thinking, paw-forward group founded by pet bloggers. People from all walks of life, all paws of life and all areas of the country — some from overseas — come together in the name of animals and blogging about them. If learning about social media, networking with fellow pet lovers and bloggers, and doing so with pets is your cup of tea, read on. Oh and toss in networking with media, brands, and likeminded people and you've got fun, education, and social media in one big extravaganza unlike anything else I've been to before. In fact, this year marks the fourth time FIDO Friendly will be a part of BlogPaws, with yours truly in attendance. AND PETS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!!!

The BlogPaws mission is to support pet bloggers, pet enthusiasts and people devoted to animals. BlogPaws works to promote the human animal bond and share positive ways to use social media to further the health and welfare of animals everywhere.

And FIDO Friendly fans and furends are encouraged to attend, with a special 20 percent off discount code at registration. Get an extra 20 percent off with this code at registration checkout: BlogPaws2012-POPs-Carol

The BlogPaws preliminary agenda has been posted along with any “conference jitters” tips you might have.

They even have their own pet blogger/pet lover community and it’s totally free to join: http://community.blogpaws.com/

Thanks to our fur-ends at dogtipper.com for the great video showcasing the 2011 BlogPaws event!

Also enter to win all expenses paid to BlogPaws here: http://www.facebook.com/BlogPaws and click SWEEPSTAKES

Join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for.

BlogPaws 2011

A BlogPaws 2011 slideshow by DogTipper. http://www.dogtipper.com

New Way to Find Lost Pets Announced

April 05, 2012 • Trends

This past December on Lummi Island, a small stretch of land of the coast of Washington, a small puppy named Willie was lost. With freezing temperatures and numerous wild animals on the island, Willie did not stand much of a chance.

The greatest fear of any pet owner is the potential of coming home, only to find that your pet has gone missing. Enter the new company, Nextdoor.

Nextdoor is a free and private social network for neighborhoods, is a great tool for getting the word out that your furry friend is nowhere to be found. Once you and your neighbors are signed up for Nextdoor, all you need to do is simply post on your neighborhood’s page that your pet is missing and those who live near you will be alerted. Nextdoor’s new Urgent Alerts feature even allows your message to be sent straight to your neighbor’s cell phones as a text message, in case they’re not by a computer.

Neighbors on Lummi Island had already set up a Nextdoor site for their community, even before Willie was lost. Because of the site, his owners were quickly able to send out an alert to their neighbors before it was too late, and after numerous reported sightings, Willie was reunited with his owners.

Aside from tracking down missing pets, Nextdoor is also a great way for pet owners in your neighborhood to connect. On Nextdoor you can organize dog walking groups, find a pet sitter for the weekend, and even share photos of your pets with your neighbors! One Nextdoor neighborhood has even put an online photo album on their site of all the dogs in their neighborhood. Visit http://www.nextdoor.com/.

Useful Nextdoor information:

Nextdoor launched nationwide in October, 2011 and has launched over 1,600 neighborhood websites and is in 46 states.
Nextdoor is a free online platform that enables neighbors to create private social networks for their neighborhood. Using Nextdoor, neighbors can communicate with each other to build stronger and safer neighborhoods.
Each neighborhood creates a private Nextdoor website that is accessible only to the residents of that neighborhood.
Topics of discussion on Nextdoor are as varied as local events, school activities, plumber and babysitter recommendations, recent crime activity, upcoming garage sales and lost pets.
Every neighbor must verify their home address to ensure that they do in fact live in that neighborhood. This can be done using one of these four methods of the new member's choosing: 1. Postcard with unique code sent to home address 2. Phone call to a listed number registered to home address 3. Credit card billing address which matches home address 4. Invitation from a previously-verified neighbor

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National Window Safety Week and Dogs

April 03, 2012 • Health & Wellness

As part of National Window Safety Week, April 1-7, 2012, the experts at Simonton Windows recommend parents of youngsters adopt an extremely cautious attitude with children AND PETS and the windows in their home.

“Children should be taught at a young age to stay away from windows for their own safety,” says Gary Pember, vice president of marketing for Simonton Windows. “Parents can help safeguard children in the home by keeping furniture (including cribs) and anything else a child can climb on, away from windows. And, if your home has Double Hung windows, open only the top part of the window that children cannot reach, to allow for ventilation.”

FIDO Friendly notes that pets should not have access to windows and caution should be used with screens. Many an accident and fatality have occurred because of dogs busting through them.

Pember offers these tips for window safety in the home:

Tip #1 - Remember the primary purpose of a window screen is to keep insects outside. Never push on screens, as they will not support the weight of a child or family pet.

Tip #2 - Lock windows when not in use to protect against intruders and make it more difficult for curious young children to open windows.

Tip #3 - Do not paint or nail windows shut. Every window in the home that is designed to be opened should be operational in case of an emergency.

Tip #4 - Refrain from nailing or attaching decorative lights to the interior or exterior of window frames.

Tip #5 - Plant shrubs or grass, and place “soft landscaping” like bark or mulch, directly underneath windows to help lessen the impact should someone accidently fall out of a window.

Pember also recommends that homeowners make certain that their homes have windows with clear openings that meet egress requirements in the living spaces as required by state and local building codes. “Egress windows provide emergency exits in your home during a fire,” says Pember. “Make sure your home has the proper amount of egress windows in every room used as a bedroom and on any floor or basement level with habitable living space.”

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ABC’s GCB Star Kristin Chenoweth Guests on Animal Radio Season of Stars

April 03, 2012 • Trends

Rising star Kristin Chenoweth will guest host America's most-listened-to pet talk, Animal Radio®, on Saturday April 7th, noon eastern on XM Satellite Radio channel 166 as well as 101 AM/FM affiliates.

Kristin's role as Carlene Cockburn on ABC's new hit series GCB is 16 years in the making according to the animal loving star. Once number 46 on the list of the 100 most attractive women, Kristin says it¹s taken a long time to find fame.

The very charismatic actress formed a non-profit pet welfare organization named after her dog, "Maddie." The dog has been a mainstay in her life through jobs, boyfriends and fame. Kristin says "Maddie is very feisty, just like her mama!" She takes the pup everywhere, sneaking her into restaurants, hotels, and even the television set.

Kristin will be joined on Animal Radio® by former ABC's The Bachelor Prince Lorenzo Borghese as part of the syndicated program's Season of Stars, which has included Betty White, Davy Jones, Carrie Ann Inaba, Frankie Avalon, Margaret Cho, Elayne Boosler and Billy Dean.

Catch this special national broadcast April 7th 2012, noon eastern on XM Satellite Radio channel 166 and 101 incredible AM-FM stations across the nation including KFWB and KTWV Los Angeles. Visit http://AnimalRadio.com <http://AnimalRadio.com/> to find a local affiliate. Visit http://AnimalRadio.com

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Top Ten FIDO Friendly Spring Travel Products for Dogs

March 29, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Flowers in bloom, buds on the trees, longer walks outside with Fido: These are the signs of spring. With the spring season also comes more travel with our beloved canine family members. As pet parents, we want to keep our dogs safe and sound, especially en route.

Here are our top ten FIDO Friendly items for dogs this spring as we prepare for road trips and outdoor fun:

Tagg The Pet Tracker: We encourage all pets to be kept on a leash when outside year round. If a dog breaks loose, they can become disoriented or lost, especially if away from home. Tagg the Pet Tracker uses advanced GPS tracking technology to allow pet owners to see where the dog is and receive a notification if he or she wanders off. Attaches to existing collar and is lightweight and can be worn even while swimming. TAGG

DERMagic Flea Shampoo Bar: Got Fleas? Get rid of them pre-travel with this new product to the marketplace. If you have seen fleas or flea specks on your dog, get rid of them the natural, organic, non-toxic way. Diatomaceous Earth is a fine white powder made by tiny (microscopic) water creatures that make silica-based shells for themselves. Combining this element with a proprietary blend of essential oils, bathing with the DERMagic Flea Bar kills fleas and provides an anti-microbial, calming and therapeutic effect for dogs with both dry and oily skin. And, it is completely safe, using no toxins, preservatives, chemical insecticides, sulfates or other irritants that can aggravate sensitive skin. From Dermagic. Dermagic

EzyDog Introduces the Convert Harness: Travel in style with this new harness for Fido. The Convert™ Harness has been designed to meet the needs of the most active pet owner. It is built with a Soft Cotton Lining on the contact surfaces and a Durable Polyester Outer Shell with a Vented rear to ensure maximum comfort. Fitting the Convert is a simple two-step process. Slip the Fully Adjustable Contoured Chest Strap over the dog’s head, and then connect the Breathable Webbing Strap using the Security Buckle. EZYDOG

Puppy Light: The stylish Classic Silver Puppy Light brand High Quality Lighted Dog Collar provides your furry friend with a safety light to help them be more visible in low light conditions. Puppy Lights are a Trademarked safety product Excellent for walks when the light outside is poor. Whether you are taking your best friend for a walk around the neighborhood, in the park or just letting them run around in the yard. From dusk till dawn your pet will be better seen for their safety and your peace of mind. Puppylight

Animated Pet Crates and Covers: AnimatedPet (AP) is the prime manufacturer of top-quality dog crate covers & dog crate pads. Sizes are available for the most popular crates on the market today. AP products turn tough, steel enclosures into luxuriously safe resting places for your best friend. Additionally, AP carries all major brands of dog crates for sale in its online store. All dog crate covers and pads are constructed from the highest quality, machine washable crate covers, heavy-duty polyurethane-coated polyester, and feature tough zippers that are made to last. Animated Pet

Too Hot For Spot: Never leave a dog alone in the car. This unique thermometer with its creative artwork is designed to raise awareness of dog car safety and bring attention to the possible hazards of leaving pets too long in a vehicle or any enclosed area during any season. The thermometer provides pet owners with real time information to make intelligent choices when traveling with their pets. It also serves as an educational tool by raising awareness. Too Hot For Spot

Sidekick for Pets: Keep Fido safe while traveling. This is the most luxurious, comfortable, portable and stylish booster seat for dogs for use in autos and at home as a luxurious bed. This unique bed helps prevent motion sickness in the car and allows you to travel safely with your pets by guarding against hard braking, turns and other dangers on the road. The SIDEKICK™ is extremely soft and includes a washable outer cover (faux suede or faux fur) with a soft, under-stuffed beanbag inner pillow creating a motion absorbing, comfortable seat for Fido. Used with your pet's harness and the SIDEKICK™ seatbelt (attaches to your car's seatbelt and your pet's harness), the SIDEKICK™ and SIDEKICK™ seatbelt provide the safest choice in car traveling systems, for you and your pet! $69.95-98.90 Sidekick for Pets

Walk in Sync Sport Harness and Leash: The revolutionary Walk In Sync™ Humane Dog Walking and Training System is the easiest and most effective training system on the market. Designed for superior comfort with soft but sturdy webbing, fully adjustable girth and neck straps, and reflective tabs for night walks. Our expertly designed harness has a training clip at the front and a walking clip at the back to assist you in eliminating the pulling habit in minutes, without ever pulling, choking or damaging your dog or puppy’s neck, trachea and throat. Walk in Sync

Doggiwater: Keep Fido hydrated. The vitamins and minerals in Doggiwater™ promote fresh breath, healthy teeth and gums, reduced tarter, shiny coat, reduced allergies, and a strong immune system. And since it’s purified, it reduces your dog’s intake of harmful chemicals like lead and chlorine. People can drink it, too. Doggiwater™ is made with ultra purified water and 100% All Natural Ingredients. No artificial additives. No artificial preservatives. In fact, it’s probably healthier than the leading soft drink. Doggiwater

Doodie Pack: Doodie Pack is a light weight highly functional utility dog backpack and durable pet waste management system designed to improve your quality of life and relationship between you and your dog. Originally designed to carry bags of dog waste generated during your walk. Doodie Pack’s roomy pockets allow your dog to comfortably carry whatever you put in the backpack. Custom monogramming with your dogs name or your organizations name makes Doodie Pack the perfect backpack while traveling, on walks, and even as a business card carrier! DoodiePack

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Top 10 Dog and Cat Medical Conditions of 2011

March 29, 2012 • Health & Wellness

An ear infection, stomach ache or cough can prompt a visit to your doctor and the same holds true for our pets. While the majority of these conditions are curable, they can become chronic and expensive to treat. Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI) policyholders spent more than $46 million in 2011 treating the 10 most common medical conditions afflicting their pets. VPI, the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, recently sorted its database of more than 485,000 insured pets to determine the top 10 dog and cat medical conditions in 2011.

Below are the results:

“The large number of claims received for these medical conditions attests to their common, often repetitive, and sometimes chronic nature,” said Dr. Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “While many pet owners fear major accidents and illnesses, which can cost thousands of dollars to treat for a single incident, repetitive and chronic conditions can be just as detrimental to a pet’s quality of life and financially burdensome to the pet owner.”

In 2011, VPI received more than 62,000 canine claims for ear infections, the most common cause for taking a dog to see a veterinarian. The average claim fee was $98 per office visit. For cats, a bladder infection was the most common reason to take your kitty to the veterinarian. VPI received more than 3,800 medical claims for this ailment – with an average claim amount of $233 per office visit.

The most expensive canine condition on the list (non-cancerous skin growth) cost an average of $220 per visit, while, for cats, the most expensive condition (lymphosarcoma) cost an average of $426 per visit.

Pet owners should familiarize themselves with their pets’ daily routine in order to identify abnormal behaviors that might indicate an injury or illness. In addition, regular semiannual physical examinations by a veterinarian can help prevent and identify certain conditions before they become serious or costly.

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KONG Company Introduces New Products for Dogs

March 27, 2012 • Trends

The KONG Company recently introduced some new products and FIDO Friendly magazine has the scoop! We've reviewed Kong products before and love them. Well, here's the low down on what's new:

The new product introductions include: KONG Traxx toys that bring a new dimension to canine playtime; Small ZoomGroom groomer/brush that can turn even the staunchest “groomaphobes” into brush-loving babies; and EZ Clear collars that help make healing from surgery or wounds more comfortable.

KONG Traxx

KONG has taken the tough, durable rubber used in its Extreme KONG toys and molded it into a fun, new shape - new KONG Traxx toys, sturdy and strong “monster truck” style toys ideal for aggressive chewers of all sizes. And just like the original KONG and Extreme KONG, there’s plenty of room inside for treats! The round toy looks just like a monster truck tire done in miniature, complete with molded KONG branding on the sides and a unique checkerboard tread on the “road” surface. The inner rim of each Traxx toy has been left hollow and has a unique treat-gripping design perfect for holding a dog’s favorite treats, such as KONG’s own Stuff’n Easy Treat, Peanut Butter and Liver Snacks, Ziggies, Goldies, Real Peanut Butter or Spreads. But they’re not just for treats – like the red rubber KONG, the extreme rubber bounces unpredictably for wild, fun fetching games, and the round tire shape of Traxx adds a new dimension – rolling! Traxx toys bounce AND roll, for a truly unique and interesting option for days at the dog park, afternoons in the back yard or a romp on the beach.

Small ZoomGroom

The original ZoomGroom has been used on dogs of all sizes for years with great success, but now there is a smaller version made just for puppies and small dogs. The Small ZoomGroom has all the great features of its larger cousin and is just as effective in grooming, bathing and reducing shedding, but in a size more appropriate and manageable for smaller dogs. The pliant ZoomGroom bends to follow the contours of a dog’s body and its 3/4” long conical rubber teeth reach down through even the longest coats, massaging and stimulating circulation and removing loose hair, dead skin and dander. Plus, the unique, rippled “dog” shape of the ZoomGroom is comfortable in either the right or left hand and offers a secure grip for dog owners. Many dogs who won’t sit still for a brushing will thoroughly enjoy a session with the ZoomGroom, because they love the way it feels more like a massage than a tugging and pulling of their coats as with many conventional, steel- or nylon-bristled brushes.

EZ Clear Collars

Wearing an E-collar can be cumbersome and uncomfortable for pets who are recovering from wounds or surgery, yet it’s necessary to prevent pets from accessing the wound and delaying healing or causing more injury. KONG’s new EZ Clear collars are designed to make healing time as comfortable as possible for dogs and cats. Unlike other E-collars made from thick, opaque plastic, EZ Clear collars are made of a flexible, semi-transparent plastic that does not limit peripheral vision, allowing pets to see their surroundings, and because the collar is flexible, it is much more comfortable for the pet to wear, especially when sleeping or lying down. Further adding to the comfort is the soft-padded neckline that helps prevent rubbing and won’t catch and pull at the fur on the pet’s neck. EZ Clear collars are fully adjustable and come with color-coded Velcro closures for a customized fit. They’re available in five sizes to accommodate cats and dogs of all sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to Great Danes.

KONG’s EZ Clear Collars come in five sizes – Small, neck size 6.5” to 8”; Medium, 7.5” to 10”; Large, 10” to 13”; X-Large, 13” to 16”; and XX-Large, 16” to 21”, and have an MSRP of $11.99 to $25.99. KONG Traxx toys come in two sizes – Small, approximately 3.5” in diameter, for small to medium-sized dogs; and Medium/Large, about 4.5” in diameter for medium to large dogs, with an MSRP of $11.99 to $17.99. KONG’s Small ZoomGroom is available in either Boysenberry (blue) or Raspberry (dark pink), and has an MSRP of $7.99. All are available online or at pet retailers nationwide.

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Help a dog feed other dogs in need: Dog lovers unite with Surf Dog Ricochet

March 27, 2012 • Rescue
by Carol Bryant

Surf Dog Ricochet, the SURFice dog who lives a lifestyle of helping others by pawing it forward, needs the help of dog lovers to help other dogs in need.

Iams has offered to donate one bowl of senior plus dog or cat food for every new LIKE Ricochet gets on her FB page until 3/31, or until she hits 100K fans... whichever comes first.

All you need to do is visit Surf Dog Ricochet’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/SurfDogRicochet

Click LIKE and that’s it. A goal would be to hit 37,000 new fans which equal 37,000+ bowls of food for dogs or cats in rescues, shelters or service dog organizations!!

Who is Surf Dog Ricochet? Surf Dog Ricochet lives a lifestyle of pawing it forward while raising funds & awareness for human & animal causes.

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http://youtu.be/BGODurRfVv4

http://www.surfdogricochet.com/

From Service dog to SURFice dog!

Join Ricochet on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/SurfDogRicochet - Kleenex alert! Each person who watches this inspirational video finds an individual message that touches them on many levels, & brings them to tears. It's about acceptance, adjust

Photographing Fido: Dog Tips & Tricks from an Expert

March 22, 2012 • Trends
by Carol Bryant

Have you ever tried to photograph your dog and catch his or her true essence? That one picture that really sums up the true character of who they are? Haven’t we all?

Joe Frasciello did and turned it into a life’s passion. He shares with FIDO Friendly magazine how he got started, what he does, and how you, too, can take doggone awesome photos of the Fido(s) in your life.

FIDO Friendly: How did you get started in the dog photography business?

Joe Frasciello: I started photographing dogs to give as gifts for friends and clients. What started out as good intentions has turned into a life’s passion. Photographing pets looks easier than it actually is, but if you’ve been at it for 15 or so years you’ll figure out what works and what doesn’t.

FF: Do you find dogs easy to photograph? Our FIDO Friendly fans can relate to wanting the perfect shot and maybe getting a blurred end result or a quick moving dog.

Joe F: Dogs are the easiest subjects to photograph as long as they are paid handsomely with treats pats and praise. Cats are a whole other subject, but I find them much easier to work with if you get them at the right moment.

FF: What advice can an experienced dog photographer like you give to FIDO Friendly readers if they want to take awesome dog photos?

Joe F: Most dogs will only give you a small window of their time to any one subject unless, of course, it’s a ball loving dog who will spend an eternity chasing and fetching their favorite tennis ball until they collapse at your feet still looking at you to throw the ball just one last time. But for most dogs, time is never ending. It only begins anew every 20 minutes or so.

FF: You’ve taken amazing pictures of my dog, Dexter, at a NYC Bark for Life American Cancer Society event. In fact, they’ve become my favorites. What advice can you give to our readers?

Joe F: Begin your shoot where your dog is most comfortable, especiallyat home or a favorite park. Try to keep your surroundings free of distraction, especially people and other animals. Outdoors works best because of its light.

FF: Are there better times to shoot?

Joe F: Absolutely. The best times to shoot are very early morning or right before sundown. This lighting tends to be just right and makes for some very magical images.

FF: What about shutters, lenses, and more technical aspects?

Joe F: If shooting with a digital point and shoot camera, you will be limited to the speed of your shutter and lens. With patience and time, you can overcome this handicap by practicing your timing down as to when to actually hit the shutter.

FF: So many times, our dogs won’t calm down. They see the camera and run, look at it, or maybe aren’t interested at all. Then what?

Joe F: Exercising or going for a long walk prior to will relax your subject and make for a much easier shoot. Waiting for your dog to lie down or sit naturally is best but you can always ask them sit or lie down. Try not to force them into this action, as it can change the energy of the dog if they are “forced into submission.” Once the dog is relaxed, position yourself at their level.

FF: That is such a good point, Joe. Those eye level shots you take are phenomenal.

Joe F: Thanks! Most photographs you see of pets are usually taken from above and never really captures the subject as it would if it were a person at eye level. If holding your dog’s attention for any one moment becomes difficult, try using their favorite treats. Allow them one or two treats before holding one back right above to the camera. Once the dog is looking right at the lens take your photograph.

FF: I’ve seen that trick used in person when you photographed my dog.

Joe F: Another way to capture your dog’s attention is to use a squeaky toy or sound that may be foreign to them. This will usually get the endearing head tilt that makes most of us sigh. Always aim for the eye. Keeping the eyes in focus is a must for a great photograph. The eyes capture the soul and show the true nature and beauty of the dog.

FF: What if it doesn’t go right? How can we get better?

Joe F: Don’t be dismayed if you aren’t getting the look your shooting for. The great thing about shooting digital versus film is that you are not limited to the amount of photographs you can take. The photographs you take today will be nowhere near as good as the ones you will take tomorrow. So start taking photographs.

A strong supporter for animal adoption, Joe continues to share his talents and photographic services to help benefit dog shelters and animal welfare groups in New York, New Jersey and Chicago. He is available for commercial and private sessions and can be reached at frazzzz@mac.com. See more of Joe’s work in the gallery below and by visiting his website, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joseph-Frazz-Photography/114981261894705.

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Happy Tail of Survivor the Dog from Petfinder

March 22, 2012 • Rescue
by Guest Writer

Karissa Christopher of Harrison, Ark., says that Tank's early life was a horror. The Lab/Bull Mastiff mix was used as a bait dog to train fighting dogs. When he wasn't "working," he was chained to a pole. One day his people left and never came back. He was rescued by the local shelter. By then he was 30 to 45 pounds underweight and was riddled with scars. He had other physical problems as well.

At the shelter, life was better, but no one was interested in him, maybe because of his breed and his condition. Eventually the open admission shelter needed to make room for other dogs. Euthanasia loomed in Tank's future.

Fortunately, Loved me, But left me ... Animal Rescue in Leslie, Ark., pulled him from the shelter and posted him on Petfinder.com. Karissa saw the listing and says, "It was love at first sight." At last, Tank had a loving and forever home.

"Once home," Karissa says, "he was shy, but with time he came around. We have had him for 10 months, and he has gained 55 pounds (making his weight 155 lbs). He loves to lie around the house, play tug of war, and swim. He is the ultimate survivor."

The above "happy tail" published with permission from Petfinder.com via Joan Banks.

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Are you a blogger, vlogger & overall social media rockstar: Win here

March 21, 2012 • Travel

Then you just might win a FREE trip to the most talked about pet social media conference compliments of our Gold Partner Eukanuba!

Enter the Eukanuba Paws In Motion to BarkWorld contest by posting a compelling blog post (or YouTube video) about why you want to go to BarkWorld 2012 and if you’re alumni what you’ve experienced attending in the past and then promote it to your social media community as well as include the link to the post/video in our comment section below. The more you post and promote the more chances you have to win!

More details by clicking here: Barkworld Contest

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FIDO Friendly in Costco Connection magazine

March 21, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular

FIDO Friendly is featured in the current issue of Costco Connection magazine. We are proud to share a copy of the article with our fans who may not receive Costco Connection.

Click the photo to the left to enlarge, wags and enjoy!

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Springtime Smiles Photo Contest: Win $500 Petsmart card and $500 Shelter Donation

March 20, 2012 • Trends • Most Popular

How would you like to win a $500 Petsmart gift card AND a $500 donation to the 501c3 non-profit shelter or rescue of your choice?

Dogtime.com has launched their Springtime Smiles Photo Contest and complete details are provided at this link: springtime smiles

Hurry – contest ends March 26!

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Poison Prevention Week March 18-24 and Pet Household Dangers

March 20, 2012 • Health & Wellness

The 50^th anniversary of Poison Prevention Week is March 18-24, 2012, marking five decades of safer homes and saved lives. While much of the nationally-recognized effort has been directed at raising awareness with parents of small children, the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline remind us that pets are also vulnerable and susceptible to accidental ingestion of potentially life-threatening common items in the home.

“Pets are curious and often can’t resist smelling, tasting and sometimes swallowing foods, plants and other items in our homes that interest them,” said Ahna Brutlag, DVM, MS, and assistant director at Pet Poison Helpline. “Poison-proofing your home is important. Taking simples steps such as making sure your houseplants are non-toxic and storing medications in secure areas will significantly reduce the chances that your dog or cat will come in contact with a toxic substance.”

In conjunction with Poison Prevention Week, Pet Poison Helpline has simplified the process of identifying potentially poisonous situations by categorizing them by room or area in which they reside. “It is our hope that by presenting the information in this manner, pet owners can easily go through their home and eliminate situations that could result in a very sick pet,” said Brutlag.

Pet Poison Helpline suggests protecting your pets by poison-proofing your home, room by room, as follows.

Living room

- Learn about your plants, since some common household plants can be toxic to dogs and cats. For example, lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis spp.) are especially poisonous to cats, so should be eliminated from bouquets where cats live. Just one or two petals can be fatal! For information on other dangerous household plants, be sure to view our list of top 10 plants poisonous to dogs and cats.

- Keep home fragrance products, such as simmer pots of liquid potpourri, well out of reach. These products may cause chemical burns if ingested.

- Don’t spray aerosols or any heavily fragranced products around caged birds. They are especially sensitive to airborne products.

- Keep ashtrays and smoking cessation products such as nicotine chewing gum or patches out of reach. Even cigarette butts contain enough nicotine to cause poisoning in pets.

- Be careful with batteries. Dogs enjoy chewing on batteries and battery-containing devices such as remote controls and cell phones. If ingested, they can cause serious chemical burns.

-Hang up your purse! Pets love to dig through purses and backpacks which often contain potential pet poisons such medications, cigarettes or sugar-free gum with xylitol.

Kitchen

- Be aware of human foods that are poisonous to dogs and cats. Watch out for raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, unbaked yeast bread dough, fatty foods and chocolate. Make sure to view the Pet Poison Helpline’s website to learn about other surprising human foods that are toxic to pets.

- Keep garbage cans behind closed doors. Trash and compost bins can contain many pet toxins such as cigarette butts, coffee grounds, moldy foods and bones.

- Keep alcoholic beverages out of reach, as alcohol can cause low blood sugar in pets.

Bathroom

- Keep medications such as over-the-counter and prescription pills, inhalers and dietary supplements, safely locked up in secure cupboards. Do not leave them on countertops or tables or store them in plastic zippered baggies, which are easily chewed through.

- Never medicate your pets with human products without first contacting your veterinarian. Some common human medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are extremely poisonous to pets.

- Always check the container before giving medication to your pet to make sure it’s the correct medication. Also, it is best to store your own medications separately from pet medications. Pet - - Poison Helpline receives many calls from people who accidentally gave their own medication to a pet.

- Keep pets away from cleaning products. Keep pets out of the room while using bathroom cleansers or other cleaning products, and close toilet lids to keep them from drinking the water, especially if you use automatic chemical tank or bowl treatment.

Utility room

- Keep rodenticides (rat and mouse poison) far away from pets and be mindful that rodents can transfer the products to locations accessible by pets. If you need to use rodenticides in your home, consult your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline in order to select one that is safest for your pet.

- When using insecticides in your home or on your pets, read the label carefully. Never use flea and tick products meant for dogs on your cat, as they may cause tremors and seizures.

- Keep glues out of reach. Some glues, such as Gorilla Glue®, expand greatly once ingested and require surgical removal. Just one ounce of glue may expand to the size of a basketball, as illustrated in the side-by-side image below. To avoid this situation, be sure to keep glues out of the reach of pets!

Garage

- Ethylene glycol (antifreeze) products are extremely toxic and, unfortunately, have a sweet taste that may be appealing to pets. Choose propylene glycol-based antifreeze as a safer alternative. If antifreeze is spilled, clean it up immediately or dilute it with several gallons of water.

- Keep all automotive products, such as windshield cleaner fluid or brake fluid, away from pets as they may contain methanol, a toxic alcohol similar to ethylene glycol antifreeze.

Yard and garden

- Dogs like the taste of certain fertilizers, such as bone meal or blood meal. Keep bags tightly sealed and out of their reach, and be sure to use products according to label instructions.

-Grub or snail killers, especially those that include metaldehyde, can be harmful to pets. Avoid using them if possible.

- Yard insecticides that contain organophosphates or carbamates can be very dangerous if ingested in high concentrations.

- Keep pets off lawns until commercially sprayed herbicides are dry.

If you think your pet may have ingested something harmful, take action immediately. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680. Pet Poison Helpline is the most cost-effective animal poison control center in North America charging only $39 per call; this includes unlimited follow-up consultations. Pet Poison Helpline just released a native app, or a mobile friendly version of its website. If you have a smart phone, be sure to add Pet Poison Helpline’s native app to your home screen for pet safety tips and information at your fingertips.

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PETching.com Announces Contest and Giveaway to FIDO Friendly fans

March 20, 2012 • Trends • Most Popular

PETching.com offers the best in local and national pet daily deals for ALL pets. Receive your daily deals for your favorite pet boutiques, pet services, pet products, and more! So make sure you sign up today to PETching!and think "CHA-CHING"!

CONTEST OF THE MONTH! Subscribe to PETching! here http://bit.ly/qW6swQ for a chance to WIN your choice of one of THREE prizes: $100 PETSMART GIFT CARD, $75 APPLEBEES GIFT CARD, OR $75 ITUNES GIFT CARD!

DETAILS BELOW:

• Enter a VALID email address and zip code or city to enter - THAT'S IT!

• All PETching subscribers through 4/19/12 will be entered into a random drawing.

• Expires 4/19/12 at MIDNIGHT Eastern Time.

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Join Biggest Loser Host Alison Sweeney in Live Chat: Dogs and Weight Loss

March 15, 2012 • Health & Wellness

The Biggest Loser” host Alison Sweeney recently kicked off the Million Pound Pledge to encourage pet owners to help their cats and dogs lose weight and get back on track to living a happy, healthy lifestyle. As part of the Pledge, Ali will be hosting an exclusive live webcast next Tuesday, March 20^th at 12PM EST on the Science Diet Facebook page.

We love Alison here at FIDO Friendly, and she was one of our covers last year, as fans will recall.

As part of the Million Pound Pledge, participating owners will gain access to a support system that includes:

Two live video chat sessions on the Science Diet Facebook page with Alison Sweeney to share pet weight loss stories ( March 20 – visit the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Facebook page for more details)
Cat and dog weight loss tips from Alison Sweeney
Interactive body condition scoring that shows the proper body shape of a cat or dog
Weight and treat comparisons that translate pet weight gain and feeding into human terms
Rebates for Hill’s^®Science Diet^® and Hill’s^® Prescription Diet^®weight management foods

Please remember to consult your veterinarian before beginning your pet on a weight management program.

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Colbie Caillat Sings for a Cause

March 15, 2012 • Rescue

Platinum-selling multi-Grammy winning singer songwriter Colbie Caillat will take time out from promoting her latest album, All of You, to perform at The Humane Society of the United States' 26th Genesis Awards on Saturday, March 24, 2012, at The Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills. Known for her dedication to the animal protection cause, Colbie will sing one of her signature songs at this annual event considered by many to be “The Oscars”® for the strongest animal portrayals in news and entertainment media. The 26th Genesis Awards will air on Animal Planet on May 5, with an encore presentation on May 6.

An active supporter of The Humane Society of the United States, Colbie has devoted considerable time and energy to the organization's Stop Puppy Mills campaign, a cause especially close to her heart. As the spokesperson for The HSUS' Puppy Mill Action week, Colbie has starred in an exclusive video and conducted radio interviews around the country to draw attention to the suffering of dogs raised in these inhumane, mass-breeding facilities, and to encourage people to adopt from shelters and rescue groups.

"I am proud to be a part of an evening that honors those that have worked hard, sometimes under very challenging circumstances, to protect animals," says Colbie.

"We are so excited to have Colbie, a true animal advocate, perform at The 26th Genesis Awards. She sings straight from the heart with the same warmth and sincerity that she brings to her efforts on behalf of animals," says Beverly Kaskey, senior director of The HSUS's Los Angeles office and executive producer of the annual Genesis Awards.

Hosted by Dancing with the Stars' Carrie Ann Inaba, The 26th Genesis Awards will recognize winners in 19 news and entertainment media categories for spotlighting animal issues, as well as honor Ian Somerhalder, star of the hit series The Vampire Diaries, with The Wyler Award for leveraging traditional and social media platforms to increase awareness of multiple animal concerns.

For a complete list of nominees and ticket information, visit humanesociety.org/genesis. Follow The Genesis Awards on Twitter #genesisawards.

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How do you know you are a dog lover?

March 15, 2012 • Trends • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

You Know You’re Addicted to Your Dog When…..

1 You reach into your coat pocket and doggie snack remnants fall out in addition to your keys, some loose change, and tissues.

2 You wake up in a crouched yoga-like position so Fido could have the comfy spot on the bed.

3 You sign Fido’s name along with yours on all birthday and holiday cards.

4 You ask a hotel if dogs are allowed before booking a vacation.

5 Your haircuts cost less than your dog’s.

6 You’ve got more pictures strewn about the house of Fido than you do of the human variety.

7 You smooch the dog at the end of the day and pat your significant other on the head.

8 You find yourself out in the pouring rain at 4 a.m. if Fido needs to really “go potty.”

9 Fido has a better healthcare plan and a lower deductible on his/her rider than you do.

10 When your pooch barks, you know what the different tones of bark actually “mean.”

QUESTION: How about continuing our list? You know you’re addicted to your dog when……

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Happy Tail from Petfinder: Dog gets forever home

March 14, 2012 • Rescue

A mystery dog. That's what Sparky was when he was rescued by Twyla's Friends in Kingwood, Texas. His condition made his breed unrecognizable.

The dog had been abused, and his veterinarian believed he had also been hit by a car because his hip was shattered in two places, making one leg unusable. Pins were inserted into the hip, but after six weeks in a foster home, he still wasn't using the leg. He seemed destined to function as a three-legged dog.

Then along came Kim Whaley of Spring, Texas, who saw Sparky on Petfinder.com. "When I found Sparky online," she says, "he had a face only a mother could love." Kim turned out to be that "mother." She adopted him, and he responded well to all the love and food she heaped upon him. Gradually, his problems went away, and these days, he has put on weight, his coat has improved and he can outrun Kim's other dogs, using all four legs to do it.

"He has brought so much joy to me and wouldn't leave my side after I had surgery," Kim says. "He is the perfect dog and an example of why people need to look for rescue dogs as pets."

Sparky is a mystery dog no more. Given TLC, he has turned into a beautiful Schnauzer.

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Our friends at Petfinder.com shared this story with us and allow us permission to post.

ASPCA Seeks Nominations for Dog, Cat and Kid of the Year

March 14, 2012 • Most Popular

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that it is accepting nominations for the 2012 Humane Awards and invites the public to contribute submissions. The ASPCA Humane Awards honor animal heroes as well as individuals who have made a significant impact on the lives of animals during the year. The ASPCA is accepting nominations via its website at www.aspca.org/HAL.

“The ASPCA Humane Awards celebrate both two-legged and four-legged individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to the cause of improving the lives of animals,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “This event recognizes and extends our gratitude to those who strive to make this world a better place for animals, who depend on us to be their advocates.”

Last year’s winners include a ‘surf-ice’ dog who raised more than $125,000 for human and animal causes while riding the waves; a mother cat who survived being set on fire and went on to inspire positive change in anti-cruelty laws; a six-year-old boy who raised more than $28,000 to help build an animal shelter in his community; a police officer who made nearly 70 felony dog fighting arrests; and a former lawyer who has devoted her life to advocating for change in her city to better protect animals. Subaru of America, Inc., which has helped find homes for thousands of animals through adoption events at local dealerships across the country, and Green Chimneys, a specialized treatment facility which betters the lives of troubled youth through interaction with animals, were also honored.

ASPCA Humane Awards winners will be invited to attend the ASPCA Humane Awards Luncheon—sponsored by the Hartville Group Inc., provider of ASPCA Pet Health Insurance—on Thursday, November 8, 2012, at the Pierre Hotel in New York City, where the awards will be presented.

Categories open for nomination include:

• ASPCA Dog of the Year: for a dog who has performed a heroic act in the past year;
• ASPCA Cat of the Year: for a cat who has performed a heroic act in the past year;
• ASPCA “Tommy P. Monahan” Kid of the Year: for a child under 14 who has improved the lives of animals; and
• ASPCA Public Service Award: for a member of the municipal police force, a firefighter, or other public service officer who has made a heroic effort to save an animal in the past year, or has demonstrated a commitment to animal welfare throughout his or her career.

All submissions must include the nominee’s name, street address, email address, telephone number, the category for which he/she is being nominated, and a short statement (400 words or less) of why this person or animal deserves the award.

The deadline for entries is Friday, June 8, at 12 p.m. (EST). Winners will be chosen by a committee selected by the ASPCA and announced to the public in mid-October. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org/HAL

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Applications Now Officially Open in the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge

March 14, 2012 • Rescue

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that applications are now open in the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, with more than $500,000 in prize grants to help shelters save more homeless cats and dogs.

Beginning at 12 noon ET today, March 13, interested shelters can apply to compete in the Qualifying Heat of the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. Applications will be accepted through 12 midnight ET on Thursday, March 15, or until 150 completed applications have been received – whichever comes first.

Shelters whose applications are accepted will go on to compete in the Qualifying Heat – 12 days of online voting to select this year’s 50 official Challenge contestants. Qualifying Heat voting opens at 12 noon ET on Thursday, April 5 and closes at 12 midnight ET on Monday, April 16.

Once the 50 competing shelters are selected, they will set about to save at least 300 more cats and dogs during the months of August, September and October 2012 than they did during the same period last year.

The ASPCA and Rachael Ray will award a $100,000 grand prize to the shelter contestant that achieves the greatest increase in lives saved during this three-month period. A second place prize of $25,000 will be awarded to the shelter with the second greatest increase in lives saved, and the contestant that does the best job of engaging its community members in helping to save more animals will win $25,000. Those organizations that do the best in their divisions will be eligible for between $5,000 and $40,000 in additional grants.

The ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge is a groundbreaking contest that challenges animal shelters across the country to come up with innovative ways to engage their communities and get more homeless cats and dogs into loving homes. For more information about the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, please visit www.aspca.org/100kchallenge.

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BlogPaws Announces “Best of Awards” for Global Pet Expo 2012

March 13, 2012 • Trends
by Carol Bryant

BlogPaws, the first and only online media company dedicated to pet bloggers and enthusiasts, is pleased to announce winners of the BlogPaws Best of 2012 Awards from this year’s Global Pet Expo, held February 29^th – March 2^nd, 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

FIDO Friendly also attended Global and we did a fab video while there and mingling with the vendors, products and new hot items coming out for dogs: FIDO Friendly at Global Pet Expo

For photos of BlogPaws Best 2012 award winners, please visit pinterest.com/felissahadas/global-pet-expo.

For video clips of the winners, please visit www.tout.com/u/blogpaws.

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FIDO Friendly magazine is hiring

March 13, 2012 • At Home • Most Popular

Love dogs?

Love working from home and setting your own hours?

Want to be part of the FIDO Friendly family?

We are looking for sales reps to work from home calling on dog business for print advertising. Must be computer savvy and good phone skills with a desire to succeed in a fast paced environment and surpass sales goals. Serious inquiries only. If you have experience and a can-do attitude, come bark along in our fun dog world with us!

Send an email with letter of interest and qualifications to: greg@fidofriendly.com

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Cuteness helps lost dog find his way home: Kleenex alert

March 13, 2012 • Rescue
by Carol Bryant

Get ready to cry tears of joy. The good folks at Cuteness.com shared this goosebump-inciting story with us about finding a way home:

"Recently a gentleman in Heflin, Alabama found a lost Pekingese dog. He visited Cuteness.com thinking he might find the dog on there and subsequently the dog's owner. He found a dog named Delpho from Heflin, AL who looked a lot like the dog he found. He contacted the owner with no luck, created a "Maybe Delpho?" page to solicit help from the community, and also reached out to Sully (the dog who "built" Cuteness.com) for assistance. Sully was able to locate additional contact info for Delpho's mom in our database and we emailed her directly. It turns out her dog WAS missing for two weeks and she was thrilled to hear that someone had found him! On 3/6 she was renunited with her lost dog. How cool is that?!"

Quotes from Delpho's mom:

I can honestly say, not many people are as blessed as I am to have him back because some babies are just lost. This was awesome, and I want you to know that without your website this never would have happened! I am so grateful for you, you will never be able to know just how much.

I found him, and we went and picked him up! This was unbelievable to me and if it wasn't for your website!! I really thought he was gone forever, and because of the great lady that had him, and your website my baby is home!! I could never thank the both of you enough!! May God bless you in every way possible!!

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Smitty the Movie: Dog lovers take note

March 08, 2012 • Trends

Don't miss the screening of "Smitty," the heartwarming movie about a boy and his rescue dog at Janss Marketplace-March 22!

Tickets can be purchased through this link http://www.shelterhopepetshop.org/events.php;

AND all proceeds go to help The Shelter Hope Pet Shop. There will be a silent auction from 4-7pm, and The Way Up band performs from 4-5:30pm! Celebrities will arrive on the red carpet at 5:30pm--movie starts at 6pm. There is a before vip party at Sunset Terrace

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"SMITTY" THE MOVIE TRAILER DOG RESCUE

http://www.smittythemovie.com

FIDO Friendly magazine congratulates Jill Rappaport of The Today Show

March 08, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

FIDO Friendly magazine's Social Media and PR Director, Carol Bryant, recently attended the Global Pet Expo and had the opportunity to attend the media-only Purina Media Reception honoring Jill Rappaport of the Today Show.

Jill received the Global Pet Expo "Excellence in Journalism and Outstanding Contributions to the Pet Industry Award" as given by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA)

As shared in a recent press release, "Rappaport has been on TODAY for 20 years. She served as the entertainment correspondent for the first 17 years, but when her beloved dog Jack got bone cancer, her life and career changed forever. While chronicling Jack's illness on the show, she realized that animal welfare issues were her calling and so her path changed. In her popular, award-winning "Bow To Wow" series, shelter dogs get a makeover and a second chance at life, and through her work she has helped to save hundreds of horses that were severely abused. Since its inception, "Bow to Wow" has had a 100% success record, and even Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps has adopted one of the dogs from Jill's segment. She also keeps TODAY viewers informed about the latest health trends for pets. She developed a clothing line for Pendleton for women and pets, which benefited the Jack and Jill Fund for animal cancer."

"We truly believe that this award was crafted especially for someone just like Ms. Rappaport and that her promotion of responsible pet ownership is directly inline with APPA's mission," said Bob Vetere, president of APPA. "Her dedication to improving the lives of pets and helping resolve animal welfare issues is evident and we could not be more thrilled to honor her with this year's award."

Previous winners include: Victoria Stilwell, Rachael Ray, Ellen DeGeneres, Dr. Marty Becker (Good Morning America/Vetstreet/Dr. Oz Show), Steve Dale (My Pet World/The Pet Minute), Gina Spadafori (author/Pet Connection) and Janice Brown (The Tails Pet Media Group).

FIDO Friendly magazine sends a hearty congratulations to Jill for all she does for animals and we are so very proud of you and honored to have met you!

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What are some hot products to hit the dog product market? FIDO Friendly knows

March 08, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular

Global Pet Expo is the pet industry's largest trade show, taking place every February in Orlando, Florida.

Our social media and PR Director, Carol Bryant, attended this year, and took in some of the sights, sounds, and of course products that she discovered in the course of the expo, which by the way, encompassed the size of 16 football fields in total!

From dog treats to toys to grooming products and oral care, here are some FIDO Friendly finds and remember to join the FIDO Friendly magazine pack and never a single issue of the one magazine your dog will thank you for. (photo courtesy Donna Ritter. Bosco and Brody featured)

FIDO Friendly magazine at Global Pet Expo 2012.wmv

FIDO Friendly magazine at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida 2012.

Original Hand Painted Clog Company Goes to the Dogs

March 07, 2012 • Trends • Most Popular

Swanx is the Original Hand Painted Clog Company. All of their leather clogs come from Denmark and are then painted by local artists in the Seattle/Tacoma area.

What is amazing about pet portraits is that the artists have to work on a curved surface with the shoe. It's not as easy as paining on a flat piece of material. Also, the paints are very specific to leather and not easy to mix up the perfect colors but Swanx does it!

Check out their video showcasing our publishers two dogs, Jake and Junior, and then pay them a visit at http://www.TheSwanx.com/.

Please visit our site below! http://www.TheSwanx.com/

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Fido Friendly Magazine

Kira talks about the upcoming Swanx pet portrait feature in Fido Friendly magazine.

Davey Jones Interview WILL Air On Animal Radio

March 07, 2012 • Trends • Most Popular

An interview recorded before Monkees’ Davey Jones untimely death will air on the nationally syndicated Animal Radio® show.

Davey Jones had been scheduled to guest as part of the Season of Stars on Animal Radio®. So far, the celebrity lineup has included Betty White, Elayne Boosler, Margaret Cho and Billy Dean. Jones’ interview had been pre-recorded as part of this event.

“When we heard about Davey’s death, we deliberated whether or not to run the interview as scheduled,” says Animal Radio® host Hal Abrams “Overall consensus was that he would have wanted that way. We will tribute him!”

In the interview, the very vivacious Davey Jones talks about his horses and jokes about his visits to the other Monkees in their nursing homes.

Catch this special national broadcast March 17th 2012, noon eastern on XM Satellite Radio channel 166 and 100 incredible AM-FM stations across the nation. Visit http://AnimalRadio.com to find a local affiliate.

Listen to past episodes on Animal Radio with Susan Sims here: (she is an amazing radio personality!): Animal Radio with FIDO Friendly archives

Animal Radio has 750,000 listeners every week. Each time a FIDO Friendly segment hits the air, about 94,800 listeners hear the segment!

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Paraplegic Dog Needs Help For a Second Chance

March 07, 2012 • Rescue
by Guest Writer

Surrendered to the shelter as a stray on February 26th, 4 year old Robert had a ruptured disc, could not walk on his own and was in constant pain. With lacerations on his head and legs, it was presumed that he was hit by a car. In the shelter Robert waited four days, with no treatment. On February 29^th, he was scheduled for euthanasia, and Pets Alive, an internationally recognized no kill organization, rescued him. Now he is recovering from the surgery that might help him walk again.

Robert made it out of the NYC Animal Care and Control facility, and on Thursday, his first round of surgery, but he is not out of the woods yet. The surgery found a ruptured disc, soft tissue damage and with recovery and evaluation over the next few days, a treatment protocol will be established.

Before surgery, Robert could only walk using his front legs, and with his toes curled under, dragged his hind legs behind him. With the surgery to take away his pain, and possibly help him regain the ability to walk, Doctors are optimistic, and state that at the least, he is a great candidate for a dog wheelchair.

Robert is extremely intuitive and bright, yet shy. His injury and handicap have not broken his spirit, and he wags his tail at the slightest affection from anyone.

Pets Alive, made the commitment to give Robert the fighting chance that he was not given before. Pets Alive routinely rescues last chance animals, and finds them forever homes in record time. Pets Alive knows that all animals are adoptable, and believes in an animal’s birthright – the right to live. The surgeries and aftercare are estimated to be in excess of $10,000.00, a difficult number for the organization that is supported entirely by individual donations. Donations for Robert will go directly towards his care, with any leftover funds going toward the critical care medical fund at the sanctuary.

Robert is currently recovering from surgery, and is getting relief for his pain. A Pets Alive team member will remain by his side continuously during treatment, and once complete, he will begin rehabilitation therapy.

Note: Many of you may recall that FIDO Friendly magazine did a story about Pets Alive and Matchbox 20 frontman, Rob Thomas, in an issue in 2011.

How To Help:

Donations are urgently needed to help with the expense of Roberts diagnostics, surgeries and rehabilitation. Donations can be made securely online at www.petsalive.org. Robert will need a foster or permanent home of his very own after his procedures. You can learn more about providing foster care or adopting Robert at www.PetsAlive.org.

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Napa Valley’s Pet-Loving Wineries Open Their Doors and Hearts for Companion Animals

March 07, 2012 • Travel

Interested in doing something fun in Napa Valley and helping a good cause?

B Cellars a Calistoga gem with the perfect patio for a sunny day

Bourassa Vineyards experience the essence of Napa in every glass

Ca’ Momi Wines lively wines with an even livelier atmosphere

Chateau Boswell Winery premium wines committed to sustainability

Clos Du Val a down to earth winery experience with beautiful surroundings

Cornerstone Cellars the best collectable Cabernets from Yountville

Madonna Estate the perfect marriage of grapes and wine

Napa Smith Winery a brewpub and wine tasting room

Oakville Ranch mountain vineyards perched high up off the Silverado Trail

Pine Ridge Vineyards “one of the best tasting rooms in Napa” by the SF Chronicle

Prager Port Works offering a variety of delicious premium ports and more

Sciandri Family Vineyards visit Coombsville, Napa Valley’s newest AVA

Trinitas Cellars wine caves beneath the iconic “Grape Crusher” statue

Truchard Vineyards producing over 12 varietals from the Carneros region

Whitehall Lane acres of vineyards within historic Rutherford

Pawsport Napa Valley includes complimentary tastings along with a fun variety of special offers such as library tastings, discounts on wine purchases, barrel tasting, and other activities only available to Pawsport holders!

Pawsports are $75.00 each

Purchase by calling 707.255.8118 x205 or visit www.napahumane.org

Follow us on Twitter @NapaHumane and get updates and info by searching Twitter for #Pawsport

Love pets? Like us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Napa-Humane/93295819421

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Planet Dog’s Wood Chuck Fetches Another Award

February 29, 2012 • Trends

Planet Dog is proud to bark about another award the socially responsible pet industry leader has fetched for its popular, eco-friendly ball tosser – the Wood Chuck®. The PET AGE 2011 Pinnacle Awards are selected by readers of the pet industry trade magazine. Retailers chose their favorite products throughout the year and the winners are announced in the February 2012 issue.

"It is always a great honor to receive recognition for product innovation, especially from retailers," says Kristen Smith, Planet Dog’s Brand Ambassador.

The Wood Chuck, which is made from 100% sustainable bamboo and reused cork scraps, offers consumers an eco-friendly way to enjoy playing fetch with their canine companions. The Wood Chuck is a beautiful, strong and sleek ball-tosser that provides maximum chuck-ability… naturally.

The patent-pending Wood Chuck was ergonomically engineered with 100% sustainable bamboo and reused cork for comfort and grip-ability throw, after throw, after throw. The Wood Chuck’s 4-pronged claw coupled with the pliant nature of Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff® balls make it a cinch to grab and throw slobber-free!

"This award is even more exciting as it allows us to partner with our customers to help make a difference in the lives of people in need and their service dog companions. Retailers and dog lovers who purchase our products are helping us support canine service,” adds Smith.

2% of every Planet Dog purchase is donated to the Planet Dog Foundation (PDF), Planet Dog's non-profit. PDF provides cash grants throughout the country that train, place and support dogs who help people in need. Since 2006, PDF has donated more than $800,000 in cash and in-kind donations to exemplary canine service programs nationwide.

Planet Dog has received other awards for the Wood Chuck including an Editor’s Choice Award from Dog Fancy Magazine. Dr. Marty Becker, the famed veterinarian, named it one of the Best New Pet Products for 2011. Dr. Becker, known as America's Family Vet, is the popular veterinary correspondent on ABC's Good Morning America and the Dr. Oz show.

Like all of Planet Dog’s award-winning and socially responsible products, the Wood Chuck is 100% guaranteed. It can be purchased online at www.planetdogretailer.com and www.planetdog.com as well as at retailers nationwide. Orders can also be placed by calling Planet Dog directly at 800-381-1516.

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Prescription Meds Top ASPCA’s List of 2011’s Top 10 Toxins

February 29, 2012 • Health & Wellness

Prescription medications for humans top the list of pet toxins for the fourth year in a row, according to a new list released today by the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®).

In 2011, the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, Ill. fielded more than 165,000 phone calls about pets exposed to possibly poisonous substances – and in almost 26 percent of those calls, the ASPCA aided in diagnosing and treating pets which accidentally ingested human medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter.

According to the ASPCA, the top five calls into its APCC in 2011 were regarding the following toxins:

1) Prescription human medications. The APCC received almost 25,000 calls regarding pets ingesting prescription human medication. Dogs are especially notorious for ingesting dropped pills. Heart medication made up a large percentage of the calls, along with medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The ASPCA recommends that pet owners always take their pills in a safe place away from their pets, like behind a closed door.

2) Insecticides. About 11 percent of the calls were about insecticides, which include products used on lawns, in homes, and on pets for flea/tick treatment. When using these products, it is crucial that pet owners read and follow the directions on the label to avoid accidental poisoning.

3) Over-the-counter human medications. Almost 18,000 calls were made to the APCC about over-the-counter human medicine, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These are extremely dangerous to animals and can cause death. Before giving over-the-counter medication to pets, always check with your veterinarian first.

4) People foods. Chocolate is the No. 1 human food ingested by pets. The APCC received over 7,600 calls about chocolate alone in 2011; an average of 21 calls a day. Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, elevated heart rate and seizures. The second most common calls were about xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can cause seizures and liver failure in dogs. Grapes, raisins, onions and garlic are other foods commonly ingested by pets. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, while onions and garlic can cause anemia if enough is ingested.

5) Household items. Nearly 12,000 calls were made to the APCC about general household items such as paint, fire logs and drain openers. Be aware of what is within your pet’s reach, especially when you aren’t home to supervise. Some items may just cause stomach upset, while others can be deadly.

The remaining top toxins included veterinary products, rodenticides, plants, lawn and garden products, and automotive products. For about a complete list of the top 10 pet toxins of 2011, visit www.aspca.org/apcc. If your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s 24-hour APCC hotline at 1-888-426-4435.

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California may soon require groomers to earn licenses

February 28, 2012 • Most Popular

While most pet groomers are experienced and professional, some have been making headlines for bad reasons, prompting pet owners and politicians to wonder what can be done to protect animals.

A proposition by California State Senator Juan Vargas (D-San Diego) would require mandatory vocational licenses for all practicing pet groomers in the state.

California Senate Bill 969 outlines stricter guidelines for groomers and their businesses, providing standards of practice for everything from the size and condition of cages to the quality of lighting at the grooming facility. The bill also outlaws the use of drying cages, which can cause overheating and, in some cases, have had deadly consequences.

To earn licenses, all groomers would have to pass an exam administered by the state and then pay a licensure fee of as much as $350. Failure to do so could result in a hefty fine of up to $2000. Serious infractions could even earn unlicensed groomers a yearlong stay in jail.

Pet owners have largely expressed support for the proposed bill, saying that these new requirements would give piece of mind.

Groomers in California have had a mixed reaction to the idea. Some have expressed their opposition, saying that there is no way that education and exams could take the place of on-the-job experience. Other groomers welcome the bill and the opportunity to prove their skills and expertise by earning official vocational licenses.

"The reality is that it's not a good idea in pet grooming to learn on the job only when you're dropping pets, when you're killing pets, when you're breaking their little limbs, when you're shaving their nipples off. That's not the way you do it," says Senator Vargas. Senator Vargas has nicknamed the bill "Lucy's Law", after a Yorkshire Terrier injured after a trip to the groomer. Lucy’s nipples were shaved off, and other injuries included a detached retina and a torn ligament in her leg.

*Provided with permision from our friends at dogtime.com

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FIDO Friendly Animal Radio show: March 2012

February 28, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

It’s that time dog lovers! Our Publisher, Susan Sims, with her monthly awesome radio show on Animal Radio.

Click here to listen: Animal Radio March 2012 FIDO Friendly

This month, Susan interviews experts from:

* TropiClean

* Emerald Halo

* Dog Trots Globe

Listen to past episodes on Animal Radio with Susan Sims here: (she is an amazing radio personality!): Animal Radio with FIDO Friendly archives

Animal Radio has 750,000 listeners every week. Each time a FIDO Friendly segment hits the air, about 94,800 listeners hear the segment!

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February 28th is National Spay Day

February 28, 2012 • Rescue

Did you know THREE Million homeless animals enter shelters each year in the U.S.!

Preventing overpopulation is the only humane way to halt suffering for millions of dogs and cats and to help the communities that are otherwise unable to humanely address the issues of unwanted animals

*Cats/dogs can get pregnant at 4 months old – spaying/ neutering prevents litters that cannot be cared for. Sadly, over half of Americans polled believed that pets should not be altered until after six months of age.

*By eliminating accidental first litters, U.S. births of 2 million kittens alone could be prevented annually.

*Millions of homeless dogs and cats are euthanized in U.S. shelters each year. Euthanasia, due to being homeless, is the single leading cause of death of dogs and cats.

* Spaying a dog or cat costs a fraction of sheltering its unwanted litter and reduces the demand for more shelter space.

*The current cost of sheltering and animal control in the U.S. exceeds $2 billion dollars a year. That figure would increase 11 fold in order to rely on long term sheltering instead of euthanasia.

In addition to halting reproduction, other health benefits of spaying/neutering include the prevention of certain types of cancers and behavioral problems that include roaming, fighting and “marking” territory.

The above information is shared from our friends at Spay FIRST!, a national non-profit organization with the mission of educating the public about the crisis of pet overpopulation which still affects much of our nation. Spay FIRST! is dedicated to preventing animal cruelty by helping to establish low-cost spay and neuter programs in underserved areas in order to enable people everywhere to have their pets spayed or neutered promptly.

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From Famous Fidos to Wheel Appeal: FIDO Friendly Reveals Lineup

February 24, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

FIDO Friendly magazine is proud to announce its March issue lineup for dog lovers. Some of our top stories include:

Fido Fame: Showbiz Dogs and Famous Fidos: Owners who landed their dog his or her big break dish on what it takes to make it into the spotlight
Get the Dog a Blog: Investigating the “wag-wide” phenomenon that is blogging for and about dogs.
Powder-hounds Unite: Taking the doggy slopes by snowstorm ala skijoring and snowshoeing.
Dogs on the Catwalk: Bark is the New Black

PLUS: Are people really sleeping with their dogs? We’ve got the scoop AND “wheel” appeal with safety first in our top picks for 2012 canine transport.

FIDO Friendly’s mantra is Leave No Dog Behind®, so we invite pooches big and small to join us with our day trips, Missouri mutterings, motorcycle excursions, al fresco dining, Yosemite getaway, and more.

Access a sneak peek at the digital version of FIDO Friendly magazine by visiting:

http://www.fidofriendly.com/issues/issue-53.

About FIDO Friendly magazine: Now in its 12th year of publication, FIDO Friendly magazine includes the very latest hotel and destination reviews along with health and wellness topics, dog training advice, rescue and feel-good stories, contests, and the latest pooch products to hit the market. FIDO Friendly is the ultimate dog travel resource and the one magazine your dog will thank you for. Leave No Dog Behind.® http://www.fidofriendly.com.

Susan Sims (Publisher), Nicholas Sveslosky (Editor in Chief), and Carol Bryant (Social Media/PR Director and Writer/Blogger) are available for interviews on any dog-related travel topics as well as dog training advice, trends, dog news, and health/wellness/fashion issues for Fido.

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Helen Woodward Animal Center Companion Animal Hospital Grand Opening Party

February 24, 2012 • Travel • Rescue

WHAT:

Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. (Feb. 3, 2012) – Helen Woodward Animal Center invites the public to a sneak-peak of its brand new, state-of-the-art Companion Animal Hospital funded entirely by local donors. The elegant, 10,000 square-foot hospital offers nine exam rooms; a dental ward; surgery rooms with observation windows for teaching purposes; isolation areas for infectious cases; a natural healing center; and even a comfort/grief area for those who have lost beloved pets.

Attendees of the Grand OpeningEvent will be treated to behind-the-scenes tours of the beautiful and ultra-modern offices, examination rooms and specialty centers, goodie-bags, raffle prizes and light refreshments. At 1:30pm, Dr. Patricia Carter will welcome guests and highlight the Companion Animal Hospital’s exciting new features. Guests will also have an opportunity to sign up for appointments, with a special discount offered to the first fifty patients. Plenty of free parking will be available adjacent to the Companion Animal Hospital, courtesy of Fairbanks Village Plaza.

Helen Woodward Animal Center encourages all pet owners to attend this special event to tour the hospital and to receive up-to-date information on the newest technology available to meet their pets’ medical needs. For more information on the Helen Woodward Animal Center Companion Animal Hospital, visit www.animalcenter.org or call 858-756-4117 x 325.

WHERE: Helen Woodward Animal Center Companion Animal Hospital, located at 6523 Helen Woodward Way, Suite 200, Rancho Santa Fe, California 92067.

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 25th from 1:00on – 2:30pm.

VISUALS:

“Behind-the-Scenes” images of the new state-of-the art hospital, including surgery rooms, dental wards, isolation areas, and other areas normally off-limits to visitors
President Mike Arms and Chief of Staff Dr. Patricia Carter welcoming guests to the new facility
Party guests enjoying refreshments and signing up for first-50-patient discount

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Quinzee and Cloud Chaser: Product Reviews for Ruff Wear

February 24, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

Still cold in Idaho so the frequent walks are still frequent, we just prepare for the elements and that includes our dogs too!

I am in love with the Quinzee from Ruffwear. Ruffwear has long been purveyors of fine outdoor products for our pets. My beautiful black Lab, Junior, is not a fan of coats, jackets, etc. But for some amazing reason, he wags his tail when he dons his beautiful warm red Quinzee.

It’s so easy to put on too, and I think the sooner Junior is allowed outdoors, the better he likes it as he is not one to stand still for too long.

The Quinzee dog jacket provides weather-resistant warmth in between activities in extreme cold or inclement weather and features sheltered side release buckles for easy on/off and the jacket packs down into its integrated, sewn-in stuff sack.

ruffwear.com $84.95

Cloud Chaser

Little boxer Jake is snug as a bug in the Cloud Chaser! The Cloud Chaser offers warmth and an excellent fit that is perfect for Jake as I think he was ‘swaddled’ in his other life. I am serious. The more comfy and cozy the jacket is, the better Jake likes it. In fact, I have a feeling he would rather wear it in the house as well.

This canine soft-shell jacket protects against rain, snow, wind, and cold so you can prolong any activity in inclement weather. A convenient zipper on the left side of the coat allows for easy on/off.

I love the zipper in this jacket. Really creates the great fit and its easy to take off. Gives great tummy coverage too. ruffwear.com $74.95.

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Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Ruff Wear and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

Dyson Ball Vacuum: Product review

February 24, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Nicholas Sveslosky

I love my black Lab, Tasha, but I don’t enjoy the weekend bachelor duties of housekeeping, especially vacuuming. Tahsa is a great pal, but that black hair is everywhere! I had the opportunity to use the Dyson Ball™ vacuum and it changed my attitude. I let out a slow whistle when this beauty arrived on my doorstep.

Dyson Ball™ vacuums continue to evolve with DC41 Animal: a powerful and maneuverable machine that automatically adjusts to any floor surface for the best performance at the cleaner head. Where it matters most.

A team of 70 Dyson engineers have packed more technology in the ball while banishing fiddly pedals, awkward dials and cumbersome hose assemblies. Valves and ducting are housed within the ball – making for a sleeker machine capable of tighter turns around furniture and fixtures.

Increasingly, US homes are moving away from carpet, integrating multiple floor types – moving from Berber to bamboo. DC41’s self-adjusting base plate automatically adapts to all floor types. A protective seal helps remove dust from hard floors, while long bristles penetrate deep into carpet to remove ground-in dirt. Shorter bristles sweep the carpet top to remove surface dust and pet hair.

And, with the most advanced Radial Root Cyclone™ technology, like all Dyson vacuums, DC41 Animal does not lose suction. So while I still do not look forward to my ‘chores,’ at least now, I whistle while I work.

DC41 Animal is available at www.dyson.com at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $599.99.

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Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Dyson and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

Dogs from 44 states and 3 foreign countries win awards

February 23, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular

Entries from the state of California dominated the competition at the 136^th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden February 13-14.

California dogs captured the most Best of Breed Awards (27 out of 185), the most group placements (7 out of 28), and the most total awards (68 out of 618) at the world’s greatest dog show.

The state of Pennsylvania had an impressive showing as well, beginning with the fact that a Pennsylvania dog, a Pekingese named GCH Palacegarden Malachy, was named Best In Show. In addition, Pennsylvania dogs won a total of 15 Best of Breed awards and 51 total awards, second only to California in those categories. In all, dogs from 44 states and three foreign countries won awards.

The awards included Best of Breed, Best of Opposite Sex, and Awards of Merit in all 185 breeds and varieties, and Group placements (1^st through 4^th in seven Groups). For a full listing of award winners by state or country, visit the Westminster website .

Here is the breakdown:

BEST OF BREED WINS (185) – California 27, Pennsylvania 15, New York 14, Texas 10, Canada 10, Ohio 9, New Jersey 8, Washington 8, Illinois 7, Colorado 6, Massachusetts 6, Virginia 6, Florida 5, Georgia 5, Maryland 5, North Carolina 5, Wisconsin 5, Connecticut 4, Oregon 4, Indiana 3, Oklahoma 3, Tennessee 3, Arkansas 2, Michigan 2, New Hampshire 2, New Mexico 2, Alabama 1, Arizona 1, Idaho 1, Kansas 1, Kentucky 1, Mississippi 1, Nebraska 1, South Carolina 1, West Virginia 1.

GROUP PLACEMENTS (28) – California 7, Ohio 3, Massachusetts 2, New York 2, Pennsylvania 2, Texas 2, Canada 2, Colorado 1, Florida 1, Georgia 1, Illinois 1, Maryland 1, New Jersey 1, New Mexico 1, North Carolina 1.

TOTAL AWARDS (647, does not include Junior Showmanship awards) – California 75, Pennsylvania 54, New York 42, Texas 39, Florida 33, New Jersey 32, Canada 31, Connecticut 28, Ohio 26, Virginia 24, Maryland 23, Illinois 22, Washington 16, Massachusetts 16, Colorado 15, North Carolina 15, Tennessee 13, Wisconsin 13, Georgia 12, Michigan 11, Indiana 10, South Carolina 10, Louisiana 8, Oregon 8, Alabama 7, Kentucky 7, Oklahoma 7, New Hampshire 6, Arizona 5, Iowa 4, Missouri 4, New Mexico 4, Arkansas 3, Delaware 3, Rhode Island 3, Idaho 2, Kansas 2, Minnesota 2, Nebraska 2, Nevada 2, West Virginia 2, District of Columbia 1, Japan 1, Maine 1, Mexico 1, Mississippi 1, Vermont 1.

JUNIOR SHOWMANSHIP (8) – North Carolina 2, Wisconsin 2, California 1, Kentucky 1, Maryland 1, Tennessee 1.

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New Treatments for Canine Cancer

February 23, 2012 • Health & Wellness
by Guest Writer

Canine cancer treatments can be somewhat like this summer's blackout: The power may be there, but without access to it, it's not worth much. Most veterinary oncologists (specialists in treating cancer in companion animals) agree that while improvements have been made in all areas of cancer treatment, the most important progress has been in improving their clients' access to that treatment. "Availability is the biggest advance in the last 10 years," says David Vail, DVM, DACVIM/Oncology, and a former chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Morris Animal Foundation.

Veterinarians refer to a triad of cancer treatment: surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. If your dog is diagnosed with cancer, most likely your veterinarian will discuss one or more of these treatments with you, depending on the type of cancer. According to Vail, surgery is still the number one option. "Far and away, surgery still cures the majority of patients," he says. "If you can catch it early enough and remove the primary tumor, that is still ideal."

Radiation therapy is the second most often used form of treatment, and according to Vail, the number of radiation therapy facilities has drastically increased in the last 10 years, increasing your chances of being close to one. "There are five times as many radiation facilities as when I started in cancer treatment 10 years ago," he says. "That's made a huge difference."

Chemotherapy, generally used when cancer has already spread through the body or when a tumor is located in an inoperable place (such as in the heart), used to be administered only by certified oncologists, which often made it difficult for pet owners to get treatment for their dogs. However, says Philip Bergman, DVM, MS, PhD, head of the Donaldson-Atwood Cancer Clinic and the Flaherty Comparative Oncology Laboratory at the Animal Medical Center, that has now changed, with more and more general practitioners administering chemotherapy. In fact, Bergman himself is one of the medical directors of a brand-new company, Oncura Partners, which partners veterinarians with oncologists. Veterinarians can consult on-line with an oncologist, receive recommendations and protocols, and even get the chemotherapy treatments to administer themselves.

While exciting advances have been made in newer therapies for cancer, including immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy, both Vail and Bergman agree that knowledge and access are the most important ingredients for successfully treating cancer. "Our general practitioners are getting more and more well-versed in veterinary oncology," says Vail. He encourages pet owners to discuss their dog's treatment with their veterinarian in as much detail as possible, including any alternative therapies you may be giving the dog. "Some [alternative therapies] have proven roles," he says. "[Pet owners] should not feel embarrassed or uncomfortable talking about it." However, because some alternative medicine, such as echinacea, can contraindict chemotherapy or radiation treatments, your veterinarian needs to know what you may be giving your dog.

"Information is key," says Bergman. "We share with [owners] side effects, cost, potential benefit. By knowing all those things they can come to some level of understanding about what is best for them and their pets." Ultimately, he says, "we try our best not to make the decision for them. They know their pet better than anyone else."

Marcella Durand for The Dog Daily

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Does your dog ever visit a restaurant with you? We want to see

February 23, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Want to see your dog featured in FIDO Friendly? Do you eat out with your dog and have the high resolution image to prove it? Write to us at contests@fidofriendly.com with the subject line RESTAURANT and we will respond with a few questions to answer. We look paw-ward to hearing from you.

Remember we will require an image of your dog at the restaurant that is 300 dpi or higher and you must have the rights to the photo for print consideration.

Wags, woofs, and "bone" appetit!

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The Humane Society of the United States Forms New Dog Breeders Advisory and Resource Council

February 17, 2012 • Rescue

The Humane Society of the United States announced the newly formed Breeders Advisory and Resource Council which is composed of responsible dog breeders from across the country. Council members will advise HSUS on dog health and welfare issues, and talk to the general public about what constitutes proper breeding practices, promoting the health of the parents and the puppies.

In a first step, the Council and The HSUS posted new web resources for consumers and a “How to Identify a Responsible Breeder Checklist.” The primary aim of The HSUS is to promote pet adoption from shelters and rescue groups, and encourage consumers who choose to purchase a puppy to buy from a responsible breeder instead of inhumane, commercial breeding facilities known as puppy mills.

Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS says, “For too long, large-scale commercial puppy mills have given all dog breeders a bad name. We commend the responsible breeders who are showing leadership in their community and speaking out against the abusive operations that treat dogs not like loving family members, but like a cash crop. Everyone who cares about the health and welfare of dogs must be part of the solution, and we are excited about this new partnership.”

"We want to protect our right to be responsible breeders and to enjoy and bond with our dogs in show and performance events, but if we think for one minute that ignoring the problem of cruelty to animals makes us responsible breeders and protects our rights, I believe we're wrong,” says Council member and AKC Breeder of Merit, Kathryn McGriff, based in city/state?. “We can no longer sweep puppy mills under the rug."

Helping consumers understand the hows and whys of responsible breeding is essential to ending the cruelty inflicted on dogs by puppy mill operators, including those who sell on the Internet.

For more information visit humanesociety.org/breeders.

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Saving Dogs Lives is Always in Fashion

February 17, 2012 • Rescue

Inspired by Fashion Week hitting runways throughout New York, the team at Helen Woodward Animal Center decided to show off the swankier-sides of their adoptable friends with a furry fashion photo shoot. The photos, taken by volunteer photographer Ricki Douglas, are meant to display the sweet dispositions of these available pets and encourage potential adopters to see them, not as abandoned animals, but rather, as beloved (and fashionable!) family members.

“There have been numerous reports citing the difference between adoption rates when a great photo is taken of an orphaned animal vs. a photo showing the same animal in less flattering surroundings,” said Jessica Gercke, PR Manager and spokesperson for Helen Woodward Animal Center. “People have a hard time imagining bringing a rescue into their home when they see an image of the animal looking unhappy and behind bars. The fashion photo shoot allowed us to highlight the gentle nature and true beauty in each of these potential pets.”

Ricki Douglas, of Ricki Douglas Photography, jumped at the fashion shoot idea. Her volunteer efforts, taking weekly heart-warming Pet-of-the-Week photos for Helen Woodward Animal Center, have already seen an increase in turn-around time for placing abandoned animals. “The fashion shoot was a wonderful experience,” stated Douglas. “One after another, these amazing animals would come in and just charm us. We laughed and enjoyed them so much. I think the photos really captured their endearing personalities.”

Haute Couture is a thrill on the runway and the latest fashion trend is always in demand, but the true love of a devoted companion is something that will simply never go out of style.

If you are interested in adopting, would like to make a donation, or would like more information, please contact Helen Woodward Animal Center Adoption Department at: 858-756-4117 ext. 313, visit www.animalcenter.org or stop by at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe.

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New York Fashion Week for Pets - Helen Woodward Animal Center

Inspired by Fashion Week hitting runways throughout New York, the team at Helen Woodward Animal Center decided to show off the swankier-sides of their adoptable friends with a furry fashion photo shoot. The photos, taken by volunteer photographer Ri

FIDO Friendly on Pet Talk with Lauren Collier: February 2012

February 16, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

We were on television! Did you see us?

FIDO Friendly magazine presented these paw-some products on Pet Talk with Lauren Collier on News12CT recently. Need a fun gift for the dog or dog lover in your life? Maybe a great winter getaway? We've got dog lovers covered! Scroll down and watch our fab fun Fido video!

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FIDO Friendly Dishes Dog Products and Destinations.wmv

Carol Bryant dishes dog products and destinations with dogs and pet travel on the February 2012 edition of Pet Talk with Lauren Collier of News12CT. http://www.fidofriendly.com/blog

Harvest Inn’s 2012 ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ Package

February 16, 2012 • Travel

Resident pup Peanut unleashes Harvest Inn’s updated 2012 ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ package in time for spring travelers and their four-legged friends to bask in the beauty and romance of the Napa Valley. This year, Peanut teamed up with his neighbors at dog friendly V. Sattui Winery to add a $50 certificate to the package, perfect for a premium wine tasting for two and picnic lunch on their beautiful grounds. Even better, $10 from each package benefits Napa Humane in their important work.

In 2011, Harvest Inn donated over $800 to Napa Humane through this package.Guests and their beloved dogs can also enter the Pretty Pucci Contest – simply send a photo of the Pucci Pooch enjoying the newly renovated Harvest Inn – to win a one night stay for Fido (with owners, of course) on the next visit, a $100 value. Each month one winner will be selected by Peanut and the Inn’s staff. Photos should be sent to: Peanut@harvestinn.com.

‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ includes lots of creature comforts - an elegant doggie bed, food and water bowls, bow-wow tasty treats, Fido magazine, a list of pet-friendly wineries and restaurants and a 10% off coupon at Fideaux, a boutique pet store with locations in St. Helena and Healdsburg. The Harvest Inn’s eight beautifully landscaped acres inspire romps and the vineyard adjacent trail is perfect for sunset walks. Then stretch your legs and leash at V.Sattui’s two acre picnic grounds with expansive grass lawn and beautiful gardens. Use the $50 certificate to enjoy a premium wine tasting for two and then select a picnic from the winery’s well-stocked Marketplace with over 200 artisanal cheeses, charcuterie and locally baked breads. The package is priced at $100 per night in addition to the room rate, with ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ starting at $399/night, not including taxes.

The package also includes:

Personal concierge assistance in planning itinerary and activities
Complimentary wine country breakfast each morning
Complimentary wine and cheese tasting on Friday and Saturday evenings in the Inn’s Great Room
Access to the Fitness Center and swimming pools
On-site parking
Internet access

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Fabulous Pet Mardi Gras Parade

February 16, 2012 • Travel

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort announces great food, good times and even a FREE night during the three day President’s Day weekend beginning Friday, February 17, 2012. Thousands of travelers and local residents are expected to join the festivities including the Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival, Mardi Gras Dog Parade and so much more.

Sandestin has hosted the Gumbo Festival, one of the largest and most popular events along Florida’s Gulf Coast for more than two decades. This year is expected to be even more spectacular with additions of the Mardi Gras Dog Parade and the Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade all in one week.

With live Cajun music, delicious cooking seminars and home-made gumbo soup served by Gulf Coast restaurants and businesses, the 23rd Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival, held on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012 in The Village of Baytowne Wharf, is sure to spice up anyone’s weekend.

“This festive event has evolved over the years to be one of the largest and most popular events and we are excited to ‘let the good times roll’ as they would say in New Orleans. You simply can’t beat fresh gumbo and new friends while visiting everyone’s favorite beach,” said Lanier Motes, special events manager for the Village of Baytowne Wharf.

In addition to the Sandestin Gumbo Festival, The Mardi Gras Dog Parade, one of the premier canine events in the south will fill the Village streets with costumed dogs and their humans throwing a myriad of throws, beads, and parade favors. Themed convertibles, small floats, golf carts, bicycles, and decorated wagons will be everywhere and Mardi Gras music will fill the air. For people who want to travel for this special event with their four legged friends, Sandestin offers pet friendly accommodations at the Bayside Inn.

For travelers tempted to stay a little longer, Sandestin is also hosting the Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade on Tuesday, Feb. 21 in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. This family friendly event invites people of all ages to “let their hair down” on what many consider the most festive day of the year. Complete with colorful floats, golf carts, street performers and marchers dressed up in their best Mardi Gras costumes, guests will leave with a barrage of beads moon pies and other trinkets.

Special Rates and Packages

Sandestin is making it easy to get away with a variety of options and deals for individuals and families. Discounted Gumbo packages are available with rates starting at only $121 per night including a ticket to the Annual Gumbo Festival. Guests can stay just steps away in the Village of Baytowne Wharf or at the lovely Luau community, steps away from the beach. (Code: GUMBO).

Other special rate options include: a FREE Night with the purchase of two. (Code: FREE3) and HOT Dates and Rates (Code: HOT) for guests that are flexible and want last minute deals, based on availability.

All of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s packages and accommodations come with a wide variety of recreational activities including bicycling, complimentary tennis court time, catch-release lake fishing, free access to fitness center and so much more.

For people wanting to come for just the day, tickets are $15 in advance and $25 the day of the event.

For complete details on accommodations and events, visit www.sandestin.com or call 1-866-91-BEACH.

More about MardiPaws: http://www.mardipaws.com/

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Healing after the loss of a dog: Radio personality shares her tale

February 15, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

FIDO Friendly loves to learn about people who give back, use their voice and their experience to touch the lives of animals and those whose lives they touch.

We wagged our tails furiously when we learned about Maria Milito, a fabulous radio personality and author who, through the loss of her beloved dog, touched the lives of thousands with her experience and words of wisdom. Here, we go behind the microphone and get to know Maria and how you, too, can share in her mission and words of doggy advice.

FIDO Friendly: Hi – can you introduce yourselves for those not familiar and tell me what you do.

Maria Milito: I'm on the air at Q1043 (Classic Rock)in NYC; Big 1059 in Miami, and on Clear Channel's Premium Choice Network. I also do voice-over work for NY1News (an all news TV channel on Time Warner Cable) in NYC and am the guest-host for their interavtive show "The Call".

FF: Have you always been a dog lover and had a dog in your life?

MM: I've always loved dogs but my parents never allowed us to have one growing up! I was only allowed turtles and fish, I guess because my parents thought the dog responsibility would fall on them (as most parents think!) so I got my dog love from the dogs in my extended family like grandparents; aunts, and uncles.

FF: Tell me about Clarice and Friends and the story behind this beautiful book and its inspiration.

MM: Clarice and Friends is a collection of emails I received from my radio listeners when my pug Clarice died in Sept 06. The emails helped me cope with the loss in such a way that I could never imagine! Listeners shared their experiences; gave advice; suggestions; told stories; so as I result I published Clarice and Friends to help someone when they lose their beloved companion, with profits going to animal charities.

FF: Tell us about any dog(s) you have in your life at present.

MM: I rescued Carmine (the Big Ragu like in Laverne & Shirley) from the city shelter in Feb 08. He was a sickly 11 lb 10 wk old English Bulldog who had pneumonia nine days after I brought him home. He was then in ICU for almost a week but today, he's a healthy 90lb (!!) either Boxer/Bulldog or Boxer/Mastiff. I tell my friends it's like living with a frat boy! He's a goofy and playful gentle giant.

FF: Do you travel with your dog(s) and what has been your favorite trip?

MM: I honestly don't travel as much as I'd like to so Carmine hasn't been on any long-term trip with me yet. My fave trip so far was when Clarice came with me, my sister, and my niece to Salem , Massachuseets and she was our sentinel in a supposed haunted hotel room!

FF: What advice would you give others who are grieving the loss of their beloved canine family member (as I have)?

MM: My advice is to not listen to anyone and deal with your grief however you need to: If you need some days off, then take them off. If you feel like crying, then cry. NEVER apologize for what you're feeling and don't listen to advice! People will tell you to throw stuff out or get another pet instantly or whatever they think but everyone deals with it on a personal basis. Btw, these are all chapters dealt with in Clarice and Friends.

FF: Often times I hear people say “oh just go get another dog” after a beloved pooch passes. Those words can hurt deep and many, myself included, find them insensitive. I’ve heard many readers say they experienced that too – again, what advice would you give to someone who faces that?

MM: Yes! Too often non-pet people (and sometimes animal people too) say get another, replace it as if it were a couch! I think we need to grieve the pet and get another when WE feel it's time. But there are people in the book who had to get another instantly and it worked out for them. It's a very personal choice. I waited a year-and-a-half before I got Carmine; I woke up and realized I was a happier person when I had a dog living with me so I started searching all the websites and ultimately found Carmine (who was Mugsy in the shelter but I changed it!).

FF: How should one reconcile with not feeling guilty for wanting to get another dog with which to share life after theirs passes?

MM: No guilt!! Own your feelings; it's your life and we all need to do what works best for ourselves. And no one should do something because someone else thinks it's best, because it might not be. If you know you need to have another pet soon after, then rescue one (please don't buy); it's ok! It's whatever works best in your life.

FF: Where can folks learn more about you and tune in to listen? Where also can they get the book?

MM: They can tune into Q1043 where I'm on 9am-2pm (they can also listen online and through iHeartradio; Miami 10a-2p & Premium Choice's Classic Rock stations 10a-3p)

http://www.q1043.com/pages/onair/mariamilito.html

I'm also on Twitter @mariamilito and Facebook.

Clarice and Friends is available through Amazon, B&N.com, and Mira Publishing. All that info and more is at http://www.clariceandfriends.com/

There's also a Clarice and Friends Facebook page which I would love people to "Like" and follow on Twitter @claricenfriends

FF: Thanks for spending time with us. What is your involvement with dogs at present and would you ever write another book?

MM: Currently I help promote and host various animal charity events in the tri-state area. And sometimes I bring Carmine too! If I received enough stories, then I'd write another Clarice and Friends type of book. I encourage visitors to the website to email their stories. http://www.clariceandfriends.com/contact.html

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Paws Promise Jewelry: Product Review

February 15, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Carol Bryant

Dogs are our best friends; truly in every sense of the word, they are loyal and make a wagging unspoken promise to us when they enter our lives to love us, their humans, unconditionally.

For many of us, they are the one best friend that keeps a promise and never wavers. Why not 'put a ring' on the commitment between you and your dog?

This is the question Kate Holmes asks of FIDO Friendly fans, and with her Paws Promise forever faithful ring pendant, the bond is solidified. Dog moms and dads can wear one and Fido wear’s the other on his collar. It can be used as a pendant, on a key ring, or wherever one sees fit.

Working side by side with lost wax casting artists, Kate Holmes developed a ‘ring pendant’ that honors the relationship between dog lover and cherished pet. Crafted by hand in both sterling silver and white bronze, beautifully understated in design, the ring pendant conjures an old-world sensibility in look and feel, and invokes the ancient tradition of exchanging promise rings.

I wore this pendant recently to Madison Square Garden and was stopped time and again. When people comment on my pendant from Paws Promise and then gaze lovingly to my dog, they see the matching pendant he is wearing and they go double ga-ga. Bling for dogs that matches the one the pet parent wears: Oh so stunning, oh so different, and one of my newest and fur-ever favorite jewelry finds.

Having recently traveled to Westminster for the dog show, there were many dog jewelry vendors abound, and the price point of Paws Promise could not compare. The pendants are weighty, hand crafted and engraved, and could easily sell for double the price. This is definitely a gift you give yourself and share with Fido for a bond that cannot be broken.

A constant reminder of the inherent promise to be there forever is what Paws Promise represents. Visit www.pawspromise.com to learn more.

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Paws Promise and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

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Behind the Scenes at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show 2012

February 15, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Some people look forward to the Superbowl with such ardent fervor and zest that they plan for weeks on end. They plan a menu, unplug the phone, lock the door and tell the kids “shhhh.” Though a football fan am I, as far back as I can remember, the Westminster Kennel Club show has been the Dog Superbowl for me.

I’d always wondered what it took to make it to the famous “Garden Green,” where the top dogs are in the same place at the same time vying for the highly coveted Best in Show. What is it really like to attend a Garden Party and celebrate elbow to elbow with other groupies, ascending upon Madison Square Garden with the same oomph and enthusiasm since 1877? Second only to the Kentucky Derby as America’s continuously held sporting event, the Garden’s been selling out since 2005 when the dogs take a bite out of the Big Apple. This year, FIDO Friendly put me at the core of it all for my second visit to the Garden Green.

As an armchair aficionado, the safety net of my filled popcorn bowl and beloved cocker spaniel gone, instead equipped with a notepad, Blackberry and armful of purple and gold embossed official Westminster Kennel Club media paraphernalia, I walked bewildered through the Garden. Me, the newly planted acorn amidst the great oaks. An electric charge ruminated from the ground level upwards. Like any rookie, I headed for the dugout, the benching area where the magic maintains itself.

The dog mom in me wanted to smooch the dogs in the benching area. What you see on tv, those dogs on the tables being groomed and primped for the ring, well you get to see them first hand and paw at the Garden as a visitor. Having followed dog breeds and their qualities for years, I enjoyed being able to ask questions about the breed, get honest answers from handlers, and see a genuine love of dogs in their eyes. That means a lot because on television the owners and handlers who truly are in it for the betterment and love of the breed often gets overshadowed with liver bait treats, stacking dogs, and traipsing the green.

Vendors and favors abound, more than a few novelties stuffed the sack of this new kid on the block. Re-“tail” therapy takes on a whole new meaning, as there is an entire floor of vendor shopping at one’s fingertips. Breed jewelry, posters, shirts, books, and treats abound, there is truly something for every dog lover.

Fans of the televised event, rest assured it feels even larger than life watching the spectacle as a spectator in person. The marquis reaches into your seat and invites you to behold the more than 2,500 purebred dogs competing to win their breed competitions. I walked away a more electrified fan, recalling my two days through photos and re-tweets. Correctly guessing the Peke would take the covered top prize was a fun bonus.

Would I attend again? You bet. Would it be the same? No two experiences ever are. Dusting off my popcorn bowl and gazing down at the heartbeat at my feet, it’s okay to be an armchair aficionado. When my canine cocker met 2009 Best in Show champ Sussex Spaniel Stump, he kissed him right on the snout. He’s more of a smoocher than a feeler anyway. The Garden is indeed green and there’s no place like home.

Here are some of the photos taken backstage and through the Westminster experience. All photos are the property of Carol Bryant for FIDO Friendly and may not be copied or shared without prior written consent.

Meeting Schmitty the Weather Dog and the pawtastic Ron Trotta in the Press Room at Madison Square Garden:

Backstage Pass to the fun and excitement of benching:

One final note: Regardless of one's feelings about dog shows, there is one common thread on which we can agree: Dogs make our lives have more meaning. They allow us to laugh, smile, get out in the world, take solace in a bad day by the mere wag of a tail, and these sentiments are all included in a commercial that aired this year during the 2-day event. This song is so very moving, one can picture their own dog's images set to the words. Double dog dare you to listen and not smile. We sure did. (scroll down for video)

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Inside Every Good Dog is A Great Dog - Purina® Pro Plan® Commercial

Purina® Pro Plan® Dog Food http://www.proplan.com -- Official Sponsor of the Westminster Dog Show Purina® Pro Plan® knows that inside every good dog is a great dog. Every dog breed, big or small, purebred or mutt, has something amazing within them.

Dog Writers Association of America Announces 2011 Winners

February 13, 2012 • Trends
by Carol Bryant

During an awards ceremony held at the Affinia Manhattan Hotel in New York City on Sunday evening, February 12, 2012. During the ceremony, writers, broadcasters, photographers, and more were honored for their contributions to the world of dog writing in some capacity. Some special awards were also presented for which a plaque and/or cash prize was awarded.

Chicago-based newspaper columnist, Steve Dale, was honored as a 2011 Hall of Fame inductee.

There were several hundred submissions vying for the coveted Maxwell Medallion in a variety of categories. Categories were split into regular and specials, with the regular groupings encompassing newspapers, magazines, canine or all animal newspapers or newsletter, internet websites or blogs, graphics, humor/poetry/fiction, other media, national club publications, regional or local club publications, and books. A complete list of winners may be found at www.dwaa.org.

W Hotels Specials Announced for Dog Loving Travelers

February 09, 2012 • Travel

Throughout the month of February, the W Los Angeles – Westwood, W Chicago City Center and W Chicago Lakeshore will be offering Valentine’s Day-inspired packages where guests can shower their canine with love. The Puppy Love Package is being provided in celebration of the release of “Lady and the Tramp” Diamond Edition Blu-ray Combo Pack, which is available now. Room rates for the Puppy Love Package start at $169 in Chicago and $319 in Los Angeles, and guests who make a reservation in February to stay with a dog will receive the following complimentary items:

*Meatball treat designed by The W Hotel chefs

*W Hotel P.A.W. perks and amenities including custom W pet bed, food & water
bowl with floor mat and more

*Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp” ‘adogable’- plush toys

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Dr. Andrew Weil Integrative Footwear: Product review

February 09, 2012 • Product Reviews
by Susan Sims

Slip-on moccasin will take you and Fido where ever you want to go in style and comfort. The laser etching with their iconic labyrinth adds to a unique detailed touch. Features removable podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed. We run in and out so much with the dogs and my slippers experience a severe work out each winter. I can feel the difference after a day of wearing these shoes in my calves and ankles and love wearing them around the house or walk in the park. Check where to buy on website for pricing information.

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by this company and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

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Celebrate Responsible Pet Owners Month with “Martha & Friends”

February 09, 2012 • Trends • At Home

February is Responsible Pet Owners Month! Celebrate your furry friends while enhancing your child’s creativity with fun, easy, pet-themed crafts – brought to you by “Martha & Friends,” an animated multimedia series, featuring 10-year-old Martha Stewart. Martha, with her three best friends and two puppy pals Francesca and Sharkey, solve problems, celebrate friendship, and provide step-by-step instructions for fun recipes and arts-and-crafts projects that are both kid and pet-friendly at www.MarthaAndFriends.com.

In celebration of Responsible Pet Owners Month, pamper you family pet by making these fun, easy, projects. Add a little glamour to your pet’s wardrobe with these fashionable canine-couture silk dog collars. Want to make your pet feel special? Fluffy will feel like a part of the family with these personalized pet bowls. And what says “I love you” better than homemade treats for National Dog Biscuit Day on February 23? Your pup won’t be able to resist these delicious doggie desserts!

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Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Puppy Love 5K Run Walk: February 12

February 09, 2012 • Travel • Rescue

WHAT:

Helen Woodward Animal Center, along with Iams and Roadrunner Sports, invite runners and walkers to the 3^rd Annual Puppy Love 5K Run Walk. With two courses (one for runners and one for walkers) along scenic Highway 101, you’re sure to find something that’s just your speed. Following the race, our athletes and spectators will enjoy a lively day of activities including a Valentine-themed doggy costume contest; Doga Yoga; a fashion show and mini classes from Pure Barre La Costa; food and canine-loving vendors in the Wagging Wellness Village; and even an opportunity to “meet your furry match.”

Registration begins at 7 am and then the race kicks off at 8am with Celebrity Grand Marshalls Raoul Martinez from FOX 5 San Diego leading the run and Surf Dog Ricochet leading the Walk. Following the race, Celebrity Judges Jagger and Kristi from MAGIC 92.5 will be joined by L’Auberge Puppy Celebrity Sofie to pick the top awards during the Furry Valentine Canine Costume Contest. Seeking someone special for you and your dog this Valentine’s Day? Single participants might want to try a fun match up, sponsored by It’s Just Lunch. And you won’t want to miss a visit from Pet Expert, Blogger and Radio Star Arden Moore!

This annual event is good for your heart in two ways…great exercise for you and your pet and the happy-hearted satisfaction of knowing that all proceeds support the pets and programs of Helen Woodward Animal Center. Race entry is $35 for both runner and walkers. For more information or to register visit www.puppyloverun.kintera.org or call 858-756-4117 x. 339.

WHERE: Along Scenic Highway 101 in Solana Beach (The race begins on the corner of Via de la Valle and Highway 101)

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12th from 7am to noon.

7am: Registration begins

8am: Race begins

VISUALS:

Families enjoying the race and the San Diego weather with their beloved pets
Grand Marshall Raoul Martinez from FOX 5 San Diego leading the run
Surf Dog Ricochet leading the walk
Dogs dressed in Valentine-themed costumes
Celebrity Hosts Jagger and Kristi from MAGIC 92.5 judging the costume contest
Fun “romantic” match-ups between dog-owners and their pets

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P.L.A.Y. Beds Warm Bellies Initiaitve with Petfinder Foundation Announced

February 09, 2012 • Rescue

Since launching in late 2010, P.L.A.Y. (Pet Lifestyle And You) has been committed to helping animals in need. Donating items to charities across the country and auctioning off Celebrity Signature Pet Beds for the SF SPCA are just a couple of examples. To help less-fortunate animals on a larger scale, P.L.A.Y. is partnering with the Petfinder Foundation to launch a new Warm Bellies Initiative aimed to help provide homeless pets with a warm and comfortable place to sleep. For every Artist or Original Collection Pet Bed purchased on www.PetPlay.com (or at participating retailers) P.L.A.Y. will donate a Special Edition Chill Pad to the Petfinder Foundation. Working with thousands of shelters and rescue organizations, P.L.A.Y. and Petfinder will distribute the kennel mats to needy pups around the country.

“When designing the program, we knew Petfinder was the ideal partner choice. With over 15 years of service and 13,000 participating shelters – the Petfinder Foundation will help us reach out and donate to a number of rescue groups around the country, not just the larger well-known organizations,” said Founder Will Chen. The Special Edition Chill Pads are great fit for shelters because they are portable, easy to wash, and super comfy for pets.

Launched in time for the holiday season, customers can participate in the program by purchasing an Artist or Original Collection Pet Bed online at www.PetPlay.com or at participating retailers. Shelters receiving donations will be determined by P.L.A.Y., the Petfinder Foundation, and fans on Facebook. For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/PetLifestyleAndYou.

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FIDO Friendly top gifts for dogs and dog lovers on Valentine’s Day

February 09, 2012 • Trends • At Home • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Looking to give Fido a little something special for Valentine’s Day? Or just because you want to show some extra love? Maybe you’d like a mid-winter getaway to share some down time with your canine heart stealer? We’ve got recommendations for those, too!

FIDO Friendly magazine proudly presents its top dog products and places picks for Valentine’s Day.

We’ll be presenting these paw-some products on Pet Talk with Lauren Collier on News12CT all weekend long. We’ll also have a YouTube link to showcase our appearance.

Places:

Ink48, a Kimpton Hotel, makes its mark in New York City’s burgeoning and historic Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. A full-service, lifestyle hotel situated on the southwest corner of 11^th Avenue at 48^th Street, Ink48 is close enough to the city’s iconic epicenter yet far enough away to be an inviting and playful urban retreat.Paying homage to its printing house past, this 222-room, 17-story hotel with its inviting rooftop lounge and unobstructed sweeping views of the Hudson River facing west, and the Midtown Manhattan skyline facing east, makes an indelible imprint as the first upscale midtown hotel to grace the far west of Times Square . Come meet Bella, the official Director of Pet Relations. As Director of Pet Relations for Ink48, Bella will always be on the lookout for the neighborhood’s best in show to highlight top Fido-friendly spots around the hotel to ensure all pet patrons have an enjoyable visit and their human companions have a stress-free vacation. http://www.ink48.com/

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort welcomes only dogs that do not exceed 30 lbs.; however, dogs exceeding 30 lbs. are welcome at Nemacolin Wooflands Pet Resort & Spa located on property. http://nemacolinwooflands.com/

* Pets are encouraged to be with owners in all public spaces allowed by law.
* A world-class facility for pets to be groomed and cared for is on the premises.
* Activities for owners and their pets to participate in are offered daily.
* First-class amenities are provided to owners and pets.
* Ample sleeping arrangements are available for owners and their pets.
* Ample spaces for pets to be walked are available.
* Water facilities are available on premises for pets to swim in.
* Receptacles for cleaning up waste are prevalent on the premises.
* A dining menu with healthy options for pets to choose from is available.
* Animal Care services are available on the premises.

GiggyBites is an exhibition style bakery for dogs. They feature fresh premium pet foods, treats, and unique gift items for pets & people. This is located in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania and Dexter loves going in with his friends to shop for baked goods. It smells oh so good and highly recommended are the Pup-zelles. The in-store Bakery features a full line of all natural GiggyBites treats. In our Marketplace you will find premium foods, collars leashes, great toys and cool gifts for every good, and not so good, dog & cat and the people who love them. http://www.giggybites.com/

Products We Love:

Solid Gold Cinna-Bits: Similar to the best-selling Cinna Bone Biscuits, these are great for smaller breeds of dogs or for training treats for larger dogs. All natural, holistic, and do not contain any chemical preservatives. http://www.solidgoldhealth.com

Morton Safe-T-Pet Ice Melt: A company with roots that date back to 1848, Morton has established itself as America’s trusted authority on salt based on consistent excellence and an evolving product line that continues to pass the test of time. Morton® Safe-T-Pet® ice melt continues this tradition. Developed with veterinarian support to be safer for your furry friends, Safe-T-Pet has a completely salt-and-chloride free formula which is less irritating and safer for pets’ paws and stomachs, people, and plants, as well as paved surfaces, than plain salt. Safe-T-Pet can be purchased online or at major national retailers. For more information, visit www.mortonmelters.com

Paws Promise jewelry: A Paws Promise forever faithful ring pendant does just that. And it can be partnered with the collectible ring - to be personalized with your dog's name. One for your dog's collar. One for you as a pendant, on a key ring, wherever you see fit! Honor, celebrate. Say I DO. Integrity of design and craftsmanship is at the heart and soul of a Paws Promise Ring Pendant. Each piece is handcrafted in the process of lost wax casting. www.pawspromise.com

Sidekick For Pets: Dogs can ride comfortably, without flopping around in the car, and see more easily out of the window without climbing on the car door or YOU! Its under-stuffed bean bag design actually ABSORBS MOTION, keeping your dog from sliding onto the floor in an abrupt stop or sliding around while turning corners. The Sidekick gives your dog a comfortable, place to sit and boosts him up to see more clearly out of the windows. Used with a Sidekick seatbelt and your dog's harness (NOT collar) your dog is provided even greater safety. When used together, this system reduces YOUR distractions, reducing your risk of an accident caused by an unrestrained pet. Learn more at www.sidekickforpets.com.

Pet Flys Pony Express carrier and matching vest: We fell for the Puppy Love design with this great duo from Pet Flys. Softest faux suede and sheepskin vest around with 5 designs and 5 sizes. Get the carrier to match for a great Valentine combo duo! www.petflys.com

Flash Gordon tags: Flash Gordon Pet tags are engineered with the highest quality materials to be strong, durable and last a lifetime. A large amount of labor goes into creating the custom computer models for each unique design. The sophisticated 3D printing process allows us to create tags that cannot be made by any other traditional method (stamping, molding, etc.) Once you get your hands on one of these tags, you’ll see that they are a bargain. http://www.flashgordondesigns.com

Rustic Hound collars work with Jibbitz shoe charms, and lock into place. They are easy to remove, change, and thousands of options are available. Collars are waterproof, fade proof, eco-friendly, easy to clean, and don’t smell after your dog dives in the water. Charms around $4 and the collars around 20 to 25 dollars with larger sizes coming. http://www.rustichound.com/

RuffBowl: A convenient travel bowl for water or food that clips onto most large retractable leashes and carries used poop bags. RuffBowl is an innovative, and convenient way to always have a travel water bowl and never have to carry poop bags in your hands. The best part is that it clips onto most large retractable leashes. $8 in blue, green, or red – www.ruffbowl.com

Luv & Emma^♥s Dry Pets: A convenient and money saving alternative for pet owners. How do you care for your pet's paws and/or fur when they enter your home on a rainy or damp day? If your answer is paper towels or anything other than Luv & Emma^♥s Dry Pets, get ready for a revolution in pet care. Luv & Emma^♥s Dry Pets approximate dimensions are 21 X 17 inches.Luv & Emma^♥s Dry Pets holds up to an amazing 16 ounces of water, and yet it dries quickly! With its patent pending integrated stretchable opening, Luv & Emma^♥s Dry Pets allows you to conveniently hang it from your doorways and elsewhere. http://www.dmjgroupinc.com/

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Sunday’s Kickers Can Rack Up Flea & Tick Prevention for Animal Shelters in New England & New York

February 02, 2012 • Most Popular

Naples, Fla.-based Ark Naturals, a leading maker of natural health and wellness pet products, will donate one case of its popular botanical Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! to a select number of animal shelters in New England and New York for every extra point and field goal kicked in Sunday's big game (aka the game we can't mention by name because we don't want to be tackled). And, if either team runs a rare flea flicker play in the game, Ark Naturals will donate five cases to animal shelters in the team's home town.

Ark Naturals will select the lucky shelters and is hoping that the scores for both teams are high -- with many kicking points so it could give away at least 10 - 15 cases in total. Animal shelters in Mass., N.H., R.I., and Conn. for New England, and in New York and New Jersey that want to be considered for the free product, are asked to post a request on Ark Naturals' Facebook page.

In addition, at kickoff which is around 6:30 p.m. ET, the first 25 consumers who tweet Ark Naturals @ArkNaturals or post on its Facebook page. that they are watching the big game with their pet will receive a free bottle of Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! A limit of 50 bottles will be given away. Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! is an all natural spray that repels & kills fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on contact. It has a mild and fresh fragrance with no oily residue. For more information visit http://www.arknaturals.com/.

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AKC/Eukanuba National Championship Dog Show To Air On ABC February 4th

February 02, 2012 • Most Popular

Don’t miss the World’s Greatest Dog Show, the AKC Eukanuba National Championship. This year’s show will air on ABC on Saturday, February 4^th at 2:00 pm EST (check local listings). Watch as the country’s premier dogs vie for the biggest dog show prize in the world!

ESPN anchor Todd Grisham will join AKC’s Assistant Vice President Gina DiNardo for commentary duties on the eleventh edition of the National Championship. Grisham with his trademark humor and enthusiasm along with DiNardo’s life-long involvement with purebred dogs will make for an exciting and fun as well as educational broadcast for all dog lovers.

“This year will be extra exciting as we present top show dogs who made it to the seven groups from the largest invitation-only dog show in AKC’s history, as well as the largest dog show in the country in 2011,” DiNardo said. “Viewers will be able to watch each of AKC’s 173 breeds as well as learn how the predictability of purebred dogs can make it easy to match a particular breed to fit your lifestyle.”

Six new AKC-recognized breeds will make their television dog show debut during the broadcast – the American English Coonhound, Cesky Terrier, Entlebucher Mountain Dog, Finnish Lapphund, Norwegian Lundehund and Xoloitzcuintli. Catch these diverse breeds – raccoon hunters, puffin dogs and cow herders – in the show ring and learn more about them at www.akc.org.

During the broadcast join us for behind-the-scenes tidbits on Facebook and participate in a Tweet Chat with dog show fans on Twitter using the hashtag #AKCEukShow. Fans can stop by to root for their favorites or chat with other dog show enthusiasts.

Additional footage, including the full coverage of groups, the Eukanuba World Challenge and the Eukanuba Breeder’s Stakes, will be available at www.eukanuba.com. Bred-By-Exhibitor group videos are available on the AKC website.

Visit www.akc.org/aenc for more information about the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship.

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San Francisco Fido Fashion Show

February 02, 2012 • Rescue

WHO/WHAT:

The San Francisco Design Center and the Luxury Marketing Council of San Francisco are proud to present the first annual Haute Dog | SF, a doggie runway fashion show that will feature 60 canine models and pooches, modeling outfits from the elegant to the outrageous. For dog lovers, San Francisco has never seen the likes of this before. Bay Area interior designers selected luscious and luxurious fabrics from the Design Center’s showrooms to design and fabricate ensembles for the pups.

Willie Brown will introduce the show’s emcee Wilkes Bashford and his dachshund, Duchie. The dogs of 49’ers Vernon Davis and Adam Snyder will strut in the show, and there will be a silent auction including an autographed 49’ers jersey, Maroon 5 guitar, a custom dog house and more, along with cocktails and edibles.

WHY:

The event will benefit Canine Companions for Independence, the Bay-Area nonprofit that provides trained assistance dogs free of charge to children, adults and veterans with disabilities. Canine Companions is the largest non-profit provider of assistance dogs and is recognized worldwide for the quality of their dogs and matching capabilities. The designers were drawn and moved by their motto … “the most advanced technology capable of transforming the life of a person with a disability has a cold nose and a warm heart!” Haute Dog | SF will launch Canine Companions’ presence in San Francisco – and what better dog-centric city is there??

If you’re a dog lover, as we are, and believe in the power of a dog’s ability to transform the lives of disabled children, adults and veterans, please join us in a fun and festive event in San Francisco.

WHEN/WHERE:

February 3, 2012 5:30 – 8:30 PM
San Francisco Design Center, 101 Henry Adams Street
Admission $15 (SOLD OUT, MEDIA PASSES AVAILABLE)

CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE: Canine Companions for Independence provides highly-trained assistance dogs to children and adults with disabilities. Established in 1975, Canine Companions has five regional training centers across the country and is recognized worldwide for the excellence of its dogs, and the quality and longevity of the matches it makes between dogs and people. There is no charge for the dog, its training and ongoing follow-up services. For more information, visit cci.org or call 1-800-572-BARK.

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Nemacolin Woodlands Resort Plans Silver Anniversary: Wooflands Celebrates, Too!

February 02, 2012 • Travel
by Carol Bryant

Nemacolin Woodlands is preparing to celebrate the resort’s 25^th Anniversary in 2012. Purchased by Joseph A. Hardy in 1987, the resort has grown from a small hunting retreat to one of only eight properties worldwide to boast both AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star lodging and dining. The vision of the Hardy family is evident in nearly all of the 2,000 acres of this world-class resort.

Themed weekends, a Silver Anniversary contest as well as special packages and a sale of unique commemorative items are just a few of the projects that are being planned to celebrate the rich history of the luxury resort southeast of Pittsburgh. What began as a 35 room hunting lodge with two tennis courts and a nine-hole golf course is now a 2,000 acre playground with 318 magnificent guestrooms, a world-class spa, field club, two championship golf courses, ski slopes and more than 15 restaurants and lounges. “Nemacolin Woodlands has truly been a labor of love for our entire family”, explains Maggie Hardy Magerko, President and Owner. “Even though I’ve been a part of the entire process, I still marvel at what the resort has become and the number of guests that have been visiting since our early years.”

While there will be a number of promotions excusive to their Silver Anniversary year, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort recently introduced a two-night Celebration Package for the first quarter of 2012 featuring special rates, amenity credits and gifts with guests being encouraged to add a third night for $25.00. Throughout the year, guests and vendors are welcome to share their resort memories as well as videos or photos via Nemacolin’s Facebook page and upcoming anniversary happenings will be detailed on the resort’s event calendar at nemacolin.com.

Nemacolin Wooflands is getting in on the celebrating, too. Located minutes from Nemacolin Woodlands is Nemacolin Wooflands where dogs have a plethora of play things and pleasantries to keep tails wagging. Private condos featuring Kuranda elevated beds, televisions, web cams for peeking in on pooches, butler service and climate controlled rooms with 100% fresh air returns are but a few of the many amenities available. Lest we forget the indoor heated pool used for both water therapy and good old-fashioned Fido freestyle cannonballs. Labrador retriever anyone? Leave No Dog Behind® unless you are visiting Nemacolin Wooflands.

Here are specials from Wooflands throughout the year to celebrate:

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FIDO Friendly visits Nemacolin December 2010.mpg

FIDO Friendly magazine found an amazing resort where dogs are welcome: Nemacolin Woodlands and Wooflands in Pennsylvania. Check this brief video out for a glimpse.

The Original SIDEKICK for Pets: Product review

February 02, 2012 • Product Reviews

by: Maren Overgaard

This is the most luxurious, comfortable, portable and stylish booster seat for dogs for use in autos and at home as a luxurious bed. My dog and cats love it. This unique bed helps prevent motion sickness in the car and allows you to travel safely with your pets by guarding against hard braking, turns and other dangers on the road. The SIDEKICK™ is extremely soft and includes a washable outer cover (faux suede or faux fur) with a soft, under-stuffed beanbag inner pillow creating a motion absorbing, comfortable seat for Fido. Used with your pet's harness and the SIDEKICK™ seatbelt (attaches to your car's seatbelt and your pet's harness), the SIDEKICK™ and SIDEKICK™ seatbelt provide the safest choice in car traveling systems, for you and your pet! $69.95-98.90 sidekickforpets.com

Note: We accept no monetary compensation for reviews. Review is NOT sponsored by Sidekick and is the sole opinion of the reviewer for FIDO Friendly magazine. We welcome your feedback and comments.

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Betty White to Appear on Animal Radio

February 01, 2012 • Most Popular

Actress and animal advocate Betty White is a guest host next weekend on the nationally syndicated Animal Radio® show.

The 90-year old Emmy winning actress claims that she¹s more active with the animals than acting. Her involvement includes sitting on the board of the Los Angeles Zoo and the Morris Animal Foundation.

It¹s clear that Betty loves all animals, but when asked if she is more of a dog or cat person, Betty states ³I love anything with a leg on each corner² says Animal Radio® host Hal Abrams.

Betty says that her parents loved animals and they would often bring creatures home and ask her if they could keep them. She suggests we enjoy everyday with our animals. ³Their roads are shorter than ours.²

Catch this special national broadcast February 4th 2012, noon eastern on XM Satellite Radio channel 166 and 100 incredible AM-FM stations across the nation. Visit http://AnimalRadio.com to find a local affiliate.

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Cadaver dogs: What is takes to become one

January 31, 2012 • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

In our fall issue, FIDO Friendly magazine investigated CSI (Canine Scene Investigators) and went undercover with dogs who solve crimes, help people get reunited, and in general, are considered Sherlock Bones of the dog world.

We “uncovered” yet story we wanted to share, and this is the kind of story you grab a cup of tea for, talk about with dog friends at the water cooler (or on Twitter), and want to go give your dog a tummy rub afterwards.

Meet Joan M. Brehm, President and Operational Handler of Illinois Search Dogs. Learn more about Joan, the fur-bulous work she does with dogs, and then log on and visit www.illinoissearchdogs.org.

FIDO Friendly: Thanks for joining us, Joan. Tell us How long have you been involved with cadaver dogs and how did you get started?

Joan: I began training and working in dogs K9 Search and Rescue (SAR) in 1997 with my first partner, K9 Chief, a male Redbone Coonhound/Lab mix that I rescued at 7 weeks old when I was living in Missoula, Montana.

I had no real knowledge about K9 SAR, but had always wanted to volunteer with the local Search and Rescue unit. At about 6 months old it was very clear that Chief needed a job or he was going to destroy my house. I attended a local SAR meeting and was put in touch with a woman on the Search and Rescue Unit who did K9 SAR, and she provided critical mentoring and help as we began our training. I had no idea if Chief had the right traits and temperament to do this work or how this would become such a big part of my life almost 14 years later.

I first began training Chief in avalanche and wilderness search due to the nature of the environment in which we lived. At about 2 years old I added land and water cadaver to his training and he really excelled, especially at the water work. When I moved to Illinois in 2003, the need for avalanche and wilderness search was pretty non-existent for obvious reasons, so Chief specialized in land and water cadaver exclusively for the rest of his career. Chief worked until he was almost 12 years old, and in October, 2010 I said good-bye to him at 13.5 years old after an amazing career. In 2005 I began training my second K9 SAR partner, K9 Sula, a female Redbone Coonhound.

Sula is now six years old and is certified with the International Police Work Dog Association in land and water cadaver, as well as trailing.

FF: Wow, that is amazing. How many dogs have you worked with in this capacity?

Joan: I have personally trained and worked two dogs in this capacity. However, I have had the great fortune to work indirectly with many other dogs via various training seminars and workshops. I learn something new from every dog I see and work with.

FF: What is a typical day in the life of a cadaver dog on site?

Joan: I am not sure there is a “typical” day in the life of a cadaver dog on site. It really varies by the nature of the call-out or request. However, one typical request from law enforcement agencies is to search “areas of interest” in relation to a potential criminal case or missing persons’ case.

It is common to be asked to search various locations and not find any evidence. However, this is still valuable information as it allows law enforcement to focus their investigations on other areas, and not spend more time in places that are not as relevant. Another common use for cadaver dogs is to locate a drowning victim in a body of water. The dog works from either shoreline or a boat and can indicate a more precise location of a drowning victim under water. This makes the diver’s job much easier and safer, as it can minimize the time that divers must spend in dangerous conditions searching for a body.

A cadaver dog can work very long days, often searching over an extended period of time or at night. They commonly work in very difficult conditions (thick brush, steep terrain, natural disaster debris) because a dog can search those difficult areas much more efficiently and quickly than any human searchers could manage. In the case of a natural disaster, such as the tornado in Joplin, Missouri, a properly trained cadaver dog can cover large areas of thick debris or collapsed structures in a fraction of the time it would take human searchers to search through the debris.

FF: Can you tell me how the dog is trained, the process, how long, and the types of assignments the dog is involved in?

Joan: Cadaver dogs are first trained to recognize and locate the odor of human remains.

Next they are trained to give a final response when they locate that odor, indicating to the handler the location of the human remains. All of this training is based on a reward system – the dog is trained to locate a target odor (human remains) and perform a trained final response so that the handler will then produce a ‘reward’ – in most cases that reward is some sort of toy (ball, tug). Most cadaver dogs are trained for a ‘passive’ final response. This means they will either sit or down next to the odor source and not disturb the human remains in any manner. Any human remains are always considered a potential crime scene, so it is important that the dog not disturb the evidence. The best dogs for this work are the ones that have very solid nerves (not fearful of noises, surfaces, etc…), will do anything for a toy reward, and have a very high drive to ‘hunt’ for the target odor.

It is much more about the specific traits of an individual dog than it is a specific breed. If the training begins when the dog is a puppy, it typically takes up to 18 months to complete the training. This is primarily due to the need to allow the dog to properly mature and develop before they are certified. However, if the training begins with a dog that is already 9-18 months old, then it can take as little as 3-4 months to complete the training, depending on the consistency of the training and the aptitude of the dog. Cadaver dogs work a variety of assignments such as missing persons’ cases, known criminal cases, disaster response, and drownings.

At first, many people may not understand why anyone would want to train a dog to find human remains. However, it is stories like those above that make this work so rewarding. Although someone may no longer be alive, their family still wants them back and the opportunity to say good-bye to their loved one. Our dogs can help give them that closure.

Images:

K9 Biba training for water recovery with handler Susan Vieth (left) and Karen Galambos

K9 Sula indicating the location of human remains during a training session. Photo Credit: Shirley Brantingham

Bill Owens: K9 Chief indicating human remains during a training session.

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EXPOTV.com offering samples of Nutro Natural Choice or Ultra Dry Dog Food for FREE

January 31, 2012 • Trends

EXPO (expotv.com) is giving qualifying members the chance to sample and review Nutro Natural Choice or Ultra Dry Dog Food for FREE. Some call it sampling, but we call it Tryology. This is a special program where members are invited to apply for free product. If they are selected for the exclusive program, they will receive free full size products worth anywhere between $40 and $60 http://bit.ly/NutroTryology

Applying is easy and free! To learn more about this sampling program and how you can apply over at the Tryology page on EXPO (http://bit.ly/NutroTryology). All you need to do is register at expotv.com and take the screener in their profile.

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Quadrupeds Invited to Catwalk for charity at 8th-annual BULLDOG BEAUTY CONTEST & Haute Dog Pageants

January 31, 2012 • Travel

The 8^th-annual Bulldog Beauty Contest will be the main event at the Sat., Feb. 11 Haute Dog Pageants produced by pageant expert/coach and bulldog enthusiast Justin Rudd and his Haute Dogs organization. The contests return to Marine Stadium, 5225 E. Paoli Way, Long Beach, 90803 – site of 1932 Olympic rowing. The public is welcome to attend and is free to spectate. Seating is available on-site for $5/chair. Organizers invite humans to enter their dogs in advance for a discounted price at www.BulldogBeauty.com.

In addition to the Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Chihuahua, and senior dog contests held in past years, Rudd has this year added pageants for Pit Bulls, cute dogs, ugly dogs, small dogs, large dogs, and the all-encompassing Best in Show contest for all dogs, breeds, mixes and sizes.

The quadrupeds will parade down a grassy runway that will include a 100-ft. red carpet runway, flanked by hundreds of gawkers in white folding chairs and a panel of real-life beauty queen judges. Judging for each contest will be based on charm, first impression, face, figure and personality. The day also includes a pet vendor fair and adoption booths.

Contestants ranging in age from four months to 17 years are expected to again travel to Long Beach, from as far as northern California, Utah, Las Vegas, Montana, Oklahoma and Arizona, to compete for the coveted 2012 titles.

- Bulldog Beauty Contest, 10 a.m. (English Bulldogs)
- Senior Dog Pageant, 11:30 a.m. (all breeds/mixes, ages 10+)
- added: Cutest Dog Contest, 11:45 a.m.
- added: Ugly Dog Contest, 11:50 p.m.
- French Bulldog Pageant, noon
- Pug Pageant, 12:30 a.m.
- National Mutt Show, 1 p.m. (no pure breeds)
- NEW: BEST IN SHOW, 1:30 p.m. (all dogs, breeds, mixes, sizes welcome)
- Chihuahua Beauty Contest, 2 p.m.
- added: Small Dog Pageant, 2:10 p.m. (generally 20 lbs. or less and/or shorter than 16 inches; not puppies)
- NEW: Large Dog Beauty Contest, 2:20 p.m. (generally 60+ lbs.)
- NEW: Pit Bull Pageant, 2:30 p.m.

Rudd says the Bulldog Beauty Contest is the largest gathering of bulldogs in the world. Last year, more than 250 bulldogs from at least four states and Canada left the crowd drooling for more. This is a competition where gender is no limitation and good looks are no advantage. Costumes and talent are optional. Organizers realize that most dogs are so adorable that they shouldn't be covered up! Entrants' names this year include: Chimichanga, Beefcake, Biggie and Pound Cake.

Real-life, reigning beauty queen judges will evaluate this contest, including Miss Long Beach and Miss Southern California Cities. Contest winners will get prize packs that include food, treats, services and toys. The Bulldog Beauty Contest also give prizes for “Best Legs”, “Best Smile”, and “Best Booty.”

The event benefits Southern California Bulldog Rescue and the nonprofit 501c3 Community Action Team (CAT), which includes Haute Dogs and Operation Santa Paws. Most funds collected will go toward a spay/neuter voucher program and toward animal rescue. Other CAT events include monthly beach cleanups, spelling bees, art contests, photography events, youth events, and more

Event details and entry forms at www.BulldogBeauty.com.

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Second Part of ASPCA Transport Set to Arrive at Pets Alive Westchester in Elmsford TONIGHT

January 30, 2012 • Rescue
by Guest Writer

The second part of an ASPCA Transport operation carrying 61 dogs from Arkansas is set to arrive at Pets Alive Westchester in Elmsford, N.Y. late tonight. In addition to the 22 remaining dogs coming from JP Ranch (see original press release below), Pets Alive decided to reach out to other rescue groups and help the ASPCA fill the transport vehicle so that more homeless dogs in the Southeast could have a second chance at a loving home in the Northeast. There now are 39 additional dogs coming from the following rescue organizations:

Arkansas Animal Rescue Foundation (AARF)
Beebe Arkansas SPCA
Beebe Humane Society
Cabot Humane Society
Three private rescuers (part of a foster network)

This operation would not have been possible without the following support:

The ASPCA funded the vetting (testing, vaccines, flea treatment, worming, and health exams/certificates) of all the dogs to make them ready for transport. Additionally, the ASPCA has funded all of the necessary doses of Immiticide, a heartworm drug that will be used to treat them. Without that medication, these dogs would not have been able to be transported.
Spay/neuter for the JP Ranch and Rescue dogs was funded by AARF.
Vetting, funded by the ASPCA, was provided by Dr. Corry Key and Justin Key of the Southwind Animal Hospital in Russellville, Ark.
Both transport operations have been provided by Sumter DART in Bushnell, Fla.
The vetting and preparations for transport for the additional dogs was funded by each rescue, but the ASPCA is funding the transport of all the dogs.

Of the original 53 dogs from the December transport, 42 have already been adopted from Pets Alive. The other 11 are still waiting for a loving home, and soon will be greeted by their Arkansas pals. Some of the dogs will be brought to Pets Alive in Middletown, N.Y. over the next several days to be placed up for adoption.

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Brush Up on Oral Health with Petco’s Free Pet Dental Event

January 26, 2012 • Health & Wellness

Eighty percent of dogs and seventy percent of cats show signs of oral health disease by age three. In honor of February’s National Pet Dental Health, Petco™ is helping proactive pet parents take care of their dog or cat’s dental health by providing free oral health seminars. The event, which is sponsored by Greenies, NutriDent and TropiClean, will demonstrate how to prevent dental plaque and tartar with daily home care. In addition, qualified Petco employees will teach pet parents about the importance of oral health, as well as provide free dental care information that will keep pets smiling from ear to ear.

A regular oral health routine for your pet includes:

• Pets should have veterinary dental visits and may need teeth cleanings at least once a year.

• Dental brushing at home, as advised by your vet, helps promote healthy teeth and gums. Never use human toothpaste, as it is toxic for pets. Petco Certified Nutrition experts can help pet parents determine which products are best to prevent disease.

• Dental chews fight tarter, buildup, and plaque, freshen breath and health maintain healthier teeth and gums.

• Bad breath, bleeding gums or oral sensitivity may signal a problem. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet may have oral health issues.

WHEN: February 11-12, 2012 from 1-2 p.m.

WHERE: All Petco locations nationwide. Call your local Petco for more information.

VISUALS:

· Petco staff teaching consumers the importance of oral health

· Photos of owners and their pets mingling together

· Interviews with Petco representatives on oral health tips

· Interviews with pet owners and the oral health of their pets

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FIDO Friendly Magazine Reveals Top Ten Items for Dogs in Winter

January 25, 2012
by Carol Bryant

Ah, the perils of winter: snow, slush, sleet, ice, frigid temperatures, and rock-salt laden highways and byways. The human variety can bundle up, slather on some lip balm, protect exposed skin, and venture out into nature’s cold bounty well-prepared.

Fido, on the other hands, needs some help in the stay protected and keep warm department as the mercury drops and snow falls.

Here are our top ten items for dogs this winter as we present our cold temp canine favorites:

Morton Safe-T-Pet: Not all ice melts are formulated to keep pets safe, which is why we love Morton Safe-T-Pet. Developed with veterinarian support to be safer for pets, Safe-T-Pet has a completely salt and chloride free formula which is less irritating and safer for pets’ paws and stomachs, people, and plants, as well as paved surfaces, than plain salt. MORTON MELTERS

Ark Natural’s Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker!: Though fleas may not survive in brutal winter temperatures outside, the warmth of home means fleas gravitate towards indoor comfort where they can affect pets. Using a natural, safer product such as Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! from Ark Naturals means no chemicals and a safe alternative for pest control and prevention during colder months. ARK NATURALS

Tagg The Pet Tracker: We encourage all pets to be kept on a leash when outside year round. If a dog breaks loose, they can become disoriented or lost when once familiar surroundings are covered in ice and snow. Tagg the Pet Tracker uses advanced GPS tracking technology to allow pet owners to see where the dog is and receive a notification if he or she wanders off. Attaches to existing collar and is lightweight and can be worn even while swimming. TAGG

Soggy Doggy Door Mat: Keep muddy and wet feet at bay with the Soggy Doggy Doormat. It absorbs five times more water than regular cotton doormats and soaks up water and dirt like a sponge. Its super absorbent microfiber chenille has us wagging and loving the portability, since the Soggy Doggy Doormat rolls up and compresses easily for travel. SOGGY DOGGY DOORMAT

Rescue Remedy Pet: If Fido gets cabin fever and a case of hyperactivity or perhaps suffers from separation anxiety, gets upset with weather changes or loud sounds, FIDO Friendly has used Rescue Remedy pet on their own pack of pooches. Add four drops to Fido’s water or food bowl for a non-sedating, non-prescriptive calming effect. Always check with a veterinarian first. RESCUE REMEDY FOR PETS

Vapamore Steam Cleaning Products: Keep carpeting clean with the steaming process through an innovative design from Vapamore. FIDO Friendly loves this 100 percent natural alternative to cleaning with chemicals and keeping dogs safe. Keep closed up winter time abodes free of illness, by removing the risk of viruses, allergens, bacteria, mold and mildew as wall bed bugs and dust mites. VAPAMORE

DawggieGoPak: Cell phone, keys, clean-up waste bags, identification, and more can be stored in this organizer for necessities of urban dog owners and on-the-go suburban parents. DawggieGoPak has many features for active pet parents. It features a multi-pocket design with Velcro enclosures to securely hold all of the on-the-go needs, yet is compact enough to seamlessly attach to any type leash. The water-resistant fabric means and handy 4.5” x 7” size means durability, portability, and compact style. DAWGGIEGOPAK

Metro Dog Dryer: When Fido gets his winter time bath, this dryer is the piece de resistance of the dog dryer world. From Metro, the Air Force Quick Draw dryer cuts drying time by 70 percent. Ideal for all breeds, people can groom like a pro from the comfort of their own home. Safer and more effective than human hair dryers, keep Fido warm and comfy this winter with this staple grooming product. METRO DOG DRYER

Sure Fit: Pet protecting throws for furniture means protection from pet hair and stains. Sure Fit’s one piece pet covers easily drape over furniture to protect the seat, back, and arms from wear and tear by Fido. Machine washable, affordably priced, and a must for winter time household protection. SUREFIT

BUB blue rain coat: Though dogs have a natural fur coat, they need protection from the season’s harsh elements. BUB makes quality coats for pooches and we adore their blue rainwear. Made of a lightweight waterproof breathable material, the inside is also a high tech nylon fabric, Taslan. Our fave feature is the way the BUB rainwear moves with the dog, protects his or her back and chest from the elements, and has reflective tape adhered to both polypropylene belts. Lightweight, compact, and functional fashion for Fido. BUB BLUE RAIN COAT

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Top Ten Most Frequently Reported Poison Dangers for Dogs in 2011

January 25, 2012 • Health & Wellness
by Guest Writer

The veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline have perused their records for 2011, and determined the “Top Ten List” of potential poisons in our homes and yards that were the most commonly reported during 2011.

“Each year we examine our records to determine what contributed to the most calls from pet owners and veterinarians,” said Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC and associate director of veterinary services for Pet Poison Helpline. “Since we spent the most time diagnosing and specifying treatments for dog-related emergencies, we’ve broken them down and produced a ‘top ten list’ designed to educate dog owners and provide veterinarians with the latest facts and statistics.”

Below is the Top Ten List from Pet Poison Helpline. Items are presented in order of frequency starting with foods, which accounted for the highest number of poisoning cases in 2011.

1. Foods – specifically chocolate, xylitol, and grapes/raisins.

Certain types of chocolate are very toxic to dogs. The chemical causing toxicity in chocolate is theobromine (a relative of caffeine). The darker, more bitter, and more concentrated the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is. Many sugarless gums and candies contain xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous to dogs. When ingested, even in small amounts, it can result in a life-threatening drop in blood sugar or even liver failure. Raisins and grapes are often overlooked as one of the most toxic foods to dogs, and can result in kidney failure.

2. Insecticides – including sprays, bait stations, and spot on flea/tick treatments.

Ingestion of insecticides and pesticides, especially those that contain organophosphates (e.g., disulfoton, often found in rose-care products), can be life-threatening to dogs, even when ingested in small amounts. While spot-on flea and tick treatments work well for dogs, they can be very toxic to cats when not applied appropriately. Cat owners should read labels carefully, as those that contain pyrethrins or pyrethroids (a derivative of the Chrysanthemum flower), are severely toxic if directly applied or ingested.

3. Mouse and rat poison – rodenticides.

There are many types of chemicals in mouse and rat poisons, all with different active ingredients and types of action, making all of them potentially poisonous to dogs. Depending on what type was ingested, poisoning can result in internal bleeding, brain swelling, kidney failure, or even severe vomiting and bloat. Mouse and rat poisons also pose the potential for relay toxicity, meaning pets – and even wildlife - can be poisoned by eating dead rodents poisoned by rodenticides.

4. NSAIDS human drugs – such as ibuprofen, naproxen.

Common drugs including NSAIDs (e.g. Advil^®, Aleve^® and Motrin) can cause serious harm to dogs when ingested, causes stomach and intestinal ulcers as well as potential kidney failure. The use of human NSAIDs in dogs is dangerous and should never be given without consulting Pet Poison Helpline or a veterinarian.

5. Household cleaners – sprays, detergents, polishes.

Strong acidic or alkaline cleaners pose the highest risk due to their corrosive nature, and include common household products like toilet bowel cleaners, lye, drain cleaners, rust removers, and calcium/lime removers. Remember that “natural” does not necessarily mean safe, as some natural products can cause severe reactions. While general cleaners like glass products, spot removers and most surface cleaners have a wide margin of safety, it is still wise to keep them out of reach.

6. Antidepressant human drugs – such as Prozac, Paxil, Celexa and Effexor.

Of all prescription medications, antidepressants account for the highest number of calls to Pet Poison Helpline. When ingested, they can cause neurological problems in dogs like sedation, incoordination, agitation, tremors and seizures.

7. Fertilizers – including bone meal, blood meal and iron-based products.

While some fertilizers are fairly safe, certain organic products that contain blood meal, bone meal, feather meal and iron may be especially tasty – and dangerous – to dogs. Large ingestions can cause severe pancreatitis or even form a concretion in the stomach, obstructing the gastrointestinal tract.

8. Acetaminophen human drugs – such as Tylenol and cough/cold medications.

Sizeable ingestions of acetaminophen can lead to severe liver failure and even dry eye in dogs. However, it should be noted that it is a more significant threat to cats, as a single Tylenol tablet can be fatal.

9. Amphetamine human drugs – ADD/ADHD medications like Adderall and Concerta.

Medications used to treat ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) contain potent stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate. Even minimal ingestions by dogs can cause life-threatening tremors, seizures, elevated body temperatures and heart problems.

10. Veterinary pain relievers – specifically COX-2 inhibitors like Rimadyl, Dermaxx and Previcox.

Carprofen, more commonly known by its trade name Rimadyl, is a veterinary-specific, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. While it is commonly used for osteoarthritis, inflammation, and pain control in dogs, if over-ingested in large amounts, it can result in severe gastric ulceration and acute kidney failure in dogs.

Just For Fun – Top Ten Breeds and Names

Along with the important information above, the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline pulled from their records the “Top Ten” most common breeds and dog names, accounting for the most emergency calls in 2011.

The Top Ten Breeds accounting for the most calls to Pet Poison Helpline were:

1. Mixed breeds

2. Labrador retrievers

3. Golden retrievers

4. Chihuahuas

5. Yorkshire terriers

6. Dachshunds

7. Shih Tzus

8. Boxers

9. Beagles

10. German shepherds

The Top Ten Dog Names accounting for calls to Pet Poison Helpline in 2011, in descending order of popularity:

1. Bella

2. Lucy

3. Max

4. Molly

5. Daisy

6. Bailey

7. Charlie

8. Lily

9. Maggie

10. And last but not least – Sadie and Buddy were tied for tenth place!

Enjoy your dog’s companionship in 2012 and keep him safe with these life-saving tips from www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

Get ready for National Dental Health Month for Pets

January 24, 2012 • Health & Wellness

Just as regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings are important to the well-being of pet parents, year-round dental care is essential to the healthy lives of our furry friends. As dental visits are scheduled, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), a nonprofit trade association dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals, reminds pet parents on the value of taking care of your pet’s teeth during Pet Dental Health Month in February.

“Lack of dental care can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis, an extremely painful experience for a pet,” explained John D’Ariano, President of NAPPS. “It’s important to schedule yearly dental cleanings and follow regular preventative care.”

To help pet parents protect their pet’s dental health, NAPPS is providing the following tips and recommendations:

Partner – Work with your veterinarian to develop proper, at-home dental treatment, such as brushing and teeth-friendly chewable items.

Examine – Regularly examine your pet’s teeth and gums, noting any changes in color, redness, or sensitivity.

Smell – Have you noticed a sudden change in your pet’s breath? Foul breath can often signal infection, and it’s important to schedule a veterinarian appointment soon to explore the source.

Watch – Observe your pet’s behavior during meal time. Does he or she show signs of pain while chewing?

Schedule – Plan regular visits to the veterinarian for dental cleaning.

It is a rewarding experience for pet parents to see their pets happy and healthy. Without proper dental care, infections can spread to other organs, creating serious health issues for your pet. NAPPS encourages pet parents to work with their veterinarian to identify year-round dental solutions to ensure Fido’s canines remain healthy and strong.

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Stars of The Little Couple TV show Announce Rocky and Maggie’s Pet Shop

January 24, 2012 • Travel • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Bill Klein and Jen Arnold, stars of the popular TLC Network series, “The Little Couple” are opening Rocky and Maggie’s Pet Shop. Named after their beloved pets and co-stars of the show, a six-pound Chihuahua and seven-pound Terrier mix, the store will carry a huge assortment of fun toys, comfy beds, stylish collars, cool accessories and healthy foods and treats.

The store is in Houston, Texas, but dog lovers and fans of the show can take part by surfing over to the store's online website at http://www.rockyandmaggies.com/.

At the store, there will be two days of fun and games to celebrate the opening!

FIDO Friendly adores Bill and Jen, and we've been fans since day one of the show. Bill Klein and Jen Arnold are just like your average married couple– except for the fact that they’re both under 4 feet tall! Bill is a successful businessman and Jen is a neonatologist at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. Along with Maggie and Rocky, they currently star in TLC’s successful docu-drama series, “The Little Couple.” Now in it’s fourth season, the show follows them as they build their life together in Houston, TX. They have made personal appearances on Good Morning America, Oprah, The Today Show, Dr. Oz, The Doctors, among others.

Where fans and fur-ends can visit: Rocky and Maggie's Pet Shop is located at 2535 Times Boulevard in Houston, Texas.

BONUS SURPRISE: Fans will want to stay tuned and subscribe, as our April/May issue has a very special insider's interview with this dynamic duo!!!

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Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show TV commentators sneak peak

January 23, 2012 • Travel

David Frei, Host of the USA Network live coverage and Director of Communcations for Westminster and telecast partner Mary Carillo, now in her fourth year with the show, took part in a National Media Conference Call as the fun, hype and road to Westminster 2012 begins. FIDO Friendly has some inside scoop on the doggone news and will be covering Westminster for the second year in a row:

David Frei on 2011 winner Hickory:

“She just had 9 puppies in October and is living comfortably on a farm in Virginia. We don’t know yet if she is going to be able to make it to the show. We might have to stick her in a cab to get there.”

David on increase in popularity of the show:

“The increase in viewership is because of all the different types of media that we have now. We have the website – www.westminsterkennelclub.org plus Facebook, and Twitter going strong now. Last year, we had the highest TV ratings of the last five years and I think that was mainly because of the social media and a lot of people were able to interact with us. We call it a two screen experience and were able to have conversations with the audience about the dogs both before and during the show.”

Mary on working with world class dogs vs. world class athletes:

“At the Olympics I would always notice that the sprinters all have- by necessity- confidence. They are about to run the race of their life that in front of millions. I think terriers, my personal favorite breed, are a lot like this. They show the same kind of confidence at Westminster.”

David on his work with therapy dogs:

“I’m just the guy holding the leash, the dogs really do all the work. It’s really special and great that we can use Westminster to spread the word about therapy dogs. We have had a few Westminster champions that were therapy dogs, most notably Rufus who won in 2006 and James from 2007. Last year we took Hickory to the Ronald McDonald House after she won Westminster. Then in 2008, we took Uno to Milwaukee to throw out the first pitch at the Brewers game and along the way stopped at the Ronald McDonald house there. They usually don’t allow dogs, but they decided that they wanted him there for the families.”

Mary on what her favorite dog breed is:

“I have had a couple of dogs throughout my life. Right now I have a Westie who I am crazy about. I like terriers because of what’s going on inside of their head and in their hearts. I like how bossy they are and how crazy they can be, but they are also sweet and good natured at the same time. I have recently developed a soft spot for rescue dogs as well. I just got my hands on one, Petie, and he is part terrier. He seems like he is really happy and has a great smile.”

David on the new Purina Sponsorship:

“We love Purina. Purina is very involved with rescue dogs. We are happy to have them and so is the dog show world as well. I know that dog’s lives are very important to them and that comes first. They have been very loyal to the dog show world throughout the years. I have been working with them for 10 years now at the National Dog Show. Dog’s lives are very important to them. Whether it’s a rescue dog or any other family pet, that comes first for them.”

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Dogs need year-round flea and tick protection: The natural botanical way

January 23, 2012 • Health & Wellness

A Dec. 8, 2011, press release issued by East Brunswick, N.J. law firm Green & Associates, LLC announcing additional class action suits against makers of pesticide-based “spot-on” (topical) flea and tick products has prompted Naples, Fla.-based Ark Naturals CEO Susan Weiss to recommend pet owners to use natural botanical alternative to effectively control fleas and ticks.

“The Green Associates’ press release was alarming and frightening at the same time,” said Ms. Weiss, whose Ark Naturals company has been marketing natural pet products for 16 years, including Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker!, a formula developed recently as a natural, botanical alternative to chemical pesticides in controlling fleas and ticks.

Fleas and ticks are a way of life for dogs and cats but controlling them is a matter of choice, and the pesticide solution seems to be wrought with serious problems, said Ms. Weiss.

Reports of dangerous side effects associated with spot-on flea and tick products date back to 2000 when the Natural Resources Defense Council released a report called “Poisons on Pets: Health Hazards from Flea and Tick Products.” The report revealed a link between chemicals commonly used in flea and tick products and serious health problems in both people and pets.

More recently a 2008 study by The Center for Public Integrity reported at least 1,600 pet deaths related to spot-on treatments with pyrethroids were reported to the EPA over the last five years, according to an analysis of EPA pesticide incident exposure data by the center. The EPA assigns risk levels to all pesticides for their potential dangers to humans and some flea and tick products contain chemicals, specifically permethrins, which are "likely to be carcinogenic to humans."

Moreover, the Center reported that pyrethroid spot-ons also account "for more than half of 'major' pesticide pet reactions reported to EPA over the last five years—that is, those incidents involving serious medical reactions such as brain damage, heart attacks, and violent seizures. In contrast, non-pyrethroid spot on treatments accounted for only about six percent of all major incidents."

Ms. Weiss said that the recent New Jersey class action suits claim the EPA has done nothing to change the advertising, marketing or labeling of pesticide-based flea and tick products to alert pet owners of the possible serious side-effects, which could include shivering, salivating, dilated pupils, vomiting, tremors and skin irritation.

“Our natural botanical Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! is labeled as GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) ingredients by the EPA and FDA. It is easy to apply and leaves a mild, fresh smell. You simply spray on a light application, massage into pet's coat, and it starts to work immediately to repel and kill fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.”

Nancy Scanlan, DVM, Executive Director of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association and past president of the Veterinary Botanical Medical Association, said she has long been aware of the problems associated with the chemical and pesticide-based flea and tick products.

“I prefer natural botanicals over pesticides for treating fleas and ticks and there are a number of good natural products that work without harsh side effects,” said Dr. Scanlan. “Herbal flea and tick products tend to be safer than pharmaceutical or pesticide flea and tick products, but all products that are formulated to rid pets of fleas and ticks pose some percentage of risk.”

As a way of doing business Ark Naturals provides a full disclosure of its Flea Flicker! Tick Kicker! product and is one of the few, if not the only company, that includes a “cautionary statement” on its website www.arknaturals.com.

“The pet’s guardian should always process the overall health and or age of their dog or cat. Both issues factor into the safety of using our product as well as any other type of product in the flea and tick category,” said Ms. Weiss. “Remember at the end of the day you are your pet’s guardian. Your four-legged guys are counting on you to make the best decision.”

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Golden Collar Awards Announced

January 19, 2012 • Most Popular

Dog News Daily announces the 1^st Annual Golden Collar Awards™, for Best Achievement in Acting by Dogs in Film & Television during 2011. The nominations will be announced at the press conference on Wednesday morning January 18^th at 8am (PT) from the dog hotel to the stars, The D Pet Hotel (1041 N. Highland, Los Angeles, CA, 90038).

Canine nominees will be selected in three categories:

Best Dog in a Theatrical Film

Best Dog in a Foreign Film

Best Dog in a Direct-to-DVD Film

Best Dog in a Reality TV Series

Best Dog in a TV Series

The name of the human recipient for the honorary Golden Collar’s Humanitarian Award, will, also, be announced during the press conference.

The prestigious Golden Collar will be given out to the dog who receives the greatest number of 1^st place votes from a panel of judges consisting of well-known, dog-loving film critics, TV critics, writers and entertainment industry executives. The judges include Pete Hammond, Awards Columnist/Deadline Hollywood; George Pennachio, Entertainment Reporter, for ABC7 Eyewitness News; Leo Quinones, Host of KFWB’s Movie Talk Show; Hollywood Foreign Press Association members, Lilly Liu, journalist for Apple Daily (Hong Kong) and Vera Anderson, journalist for Cine Premiere magazine, (Mexico); Elizabeth Snead, Contributing Editor, The Hollywood Reporter; Wendy Burch, Weekend Anchor of the KTLA Morning News; and Linda Bell Blue, Executive Producer of Entertainment Tonight.

According to Alan Siskind, CEO of Dog News Daily, the pet industry’s leading digital media & marketing company, “Formally recognizing and honoring the performances of dogs in film & television with their own award has been long overdue in Hollywood. Ever since Blair, a Collie, starred as Rover in the 1905 British short silent film Rescued by Rover, dogs have gone on to assume starring roles in some of the film industry’s most memorable movies & TV shows including Rin Tin Tin, Lassie, The Wizard of Oz, Air Bud, and Benji. Now with the creation and presentation of the Golden Collar™, canine actors will have their own award to bark about.”

The The 1^st Annual Golden Collar Awards ceremony will take on Monday, February 13 at 6:00pm (PT) at The Hotel Palomar in Westwood/Los Angeles, a dog-friendly Kimpton Hotel. The evening will kick-off with red carpet arrivals and private cocktail reception benefiting Los Angeles area dog rescue organizations and shelters.

The world famous artist Simon Tavassoli and his design studio BB Simon in Newport Beach CA have been commissioned to create the Golden Collar Award.

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Osteoarthritis and dogs

January 19, 2012 • Health & Wellness
by Guest Writer

By Amanda Grei, guest writer

Osteoarthritis is a common problem for canines just as it is us humans. So looking after their joints, just as you would your own, is crucial.

Does my dog have osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis may be mild to begin with, but left untreated they could get progressively worse. You may notice your dog has slowed down or is showing signs of weakness and discomfort when on their feet. They may be having difficulty getting up and down stairs, or be reluctant to play. Over time, osteoarthritis can become extremely painful and as joints become stiffer, your dog’s mobility could be reduced completely. This could lead to other health risks.

If your dog is less active, he or she could become more prone to gaining weight. This could increase your dog’s chances of developing heart problems and diabetes. A healthy, happy dog is an active dog which is why joint health is key.

Glucosamine for dogs

The right nutrition could make a big difference for your pet. Just as humans take glucosamine supplements to help keep their joints strong and supple, glucosamine for dogs has been found to reduce the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis as well.

Produced naturally in the body, glucosamine is an amino sugar that plays a central role in building joint cartilage, ligaments, bone and blood vessels. It’s crucial in the repair of cartilage damage too.

Studies have found a daily dose of glucosamine could help reduce joint pain, inflammation and stiffness if taken regularly.

Introducing a daily glucosamine supplement while your dog is still young could help ward off joint problems before they begin to develop. If your dog is already showing signs of osteoarthritis, glucosamine could help to reduce the symptoms and enable your dog to enjoy a more active lifestyle again.

Results that speak for themselves

Heather Richards first noticed her golden Labrador, Otis was looking his age when he could no longer keep up with other dogs. “Otis has always been a really boisterous dog,” she said. “When we’d meet up with other dogs in the neighbourhood, there was no stopping him. However, I began to realise he was staying by my side more often, rather than running around with the others.”

Heather had heard other dog owners talking about glucosamine for dogs so she decided to add a daily supplement to Otis’s diet. “After just a few months I started to see a real difference,” she says. “Otis was spending more time running around the park with the other dogs and he was still able to walk home comfortably afterwards, rather than limping home like he had been doing.”

What is key about glucosamine is that the stories speak for themselves. There is no placebo effect and dogs don’t know if they are being given a supplement. So, if your dog suddenly becomes more active, you would be right to thank glucosamine!

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Surf Dog Ricochet to Appear on Oprah: Video

January 17, 2012 • Most Popular
by Carol Bryant

Our good buddy, Surf Dog Ricochet, is going to be in a segment of "Beyond Belief" on the Oprah Winfrey Network on January 24th. It includes Patrick & Ian, and mentions some of her other causes. We hope you can tune in.

His mom also made a sequel to the SURFice dog video. We're trying to get it in front of as many kids as possible, as it has several subtle messages about staying true to yourself, helping others, anti-bullying, self confidence and many more. We're hoping the kids will identify with Ricochet better than adults because she's non threatening, and non judgmental. Adults can benefit too though.

Check this out and we dare you not to smile.

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Surf dog Ricochet: Be True to Yourself - Sequel to SURFice dog video

https://www.facebook.com/SurfDogRicochet. If you're not sure where you're going in life, or have expectations set upon you, or get bullied, or lack confidence, are confused, advocate for animals or anything else, This video will give you hope to beli

Join in the Puppy Love 5k Run/1 Mile Walk

January 17, 2012 • Rescue

A little bit of, “Puppy Love” can go a long way to help make 2012 your healthiest and happiest year ever. Grab a leash and your running shoes for the third annual Puppy Love 5k run and 1 mile walk benefitting Helen Woodward Animal Center on Feb. 12, 2012. This year there are two separate courses for runners and walkers (and their four-legged friends) along scenic Highway 101 in Solana Beach. The event, sponsored by Iams and Roadrunner Sports, also features the Wagging Wellness Village with vendors, food, prizes and activities.

“This is such a fun event – it’s not often that people can run or walk a race with their four-legged friends,” said Nedra Abramson, Special Events and Sponsorship Manager for the Center. “Whether you’re a longtime runner, starting a fitness program as a New Year’s resolution, or you just enjoy taking a morning walk with your dog, you will have a blast at this event. And it’s all for a good cause – proceeds benefit the programs of Helen Woodward Animal Center.”

Celebrity Grand Marshalls include Raoul Martinez from FOX 5 San Diego leading the run and Surf Dog Ricochet leading the Walk. The race begins at 8 a.m. on the corner of Via de la Valle and Highway 101 in Solana Beach, and the festivities last until noon. After the race, runners, walkers and spectators can take part in the Furry Valentine Canine Costume Contest as well as Doga Yoga, canine agility with San Diego Pet Training, and mini classes from Pure Barre La Costa.

Dog lovers looking for the right person for them and their dog to love this Valentine’s Day can also participate in “meet your furry match,” a fun match up sponsored by It’s Just Lunch.

The race entry is $35 for both runners and walkers and all proceeds from the event support the pets and programs of Helen Woodward Animal Center. For more information or to register, visit www. Puppyloverun.kintera.org or call 858-756-4117 ext. 339.

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Children’s Poetry Contest: Submissions due by end of January

January 13, 2012 • Trends

Calling all creative kids! The American Pet Products Association is accepting poems for the 4^th Annual Pets Add Life Children’s Poetry Contest now through Jan. 31.

Students in grades 3^rd-8^th are invited to write a unique poem about their pets, what they love about them, the joys they bring, and post it online at www.PetsAddLife.org or mail their final poem and submission form to: Pets Add Life, 661 Sierra Rose Dr., Reno, NV 89511. Deadline for submissions is January 31, 2012 at 5:00pm EST.

One student from each grade level (6 total) nationwide will win a $250 gift certificate for pet products, and a “by-line” in a nationally circulated publication. In addition, the six winning students’ classrooms will each win a $1,000 scholarship to spend on pet related education.

In addition, teachers within contest grade levels are welcome to incorporate this national contest into their lesson plans, and submit poems in one entry, on behalf of his/her classroom.

To learn more about the Pets Add Life Children’s Poetry Contest, read previous winning poems, upload your submission, or download a printed submission form, please visit www.petsaddlife.org.

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How to Help Pets Lose Weight and Win Big With Alison Sweeney of The Biggest Loser

January 12, 2012 • Health & Wellness
by Carol Bryant

Did you know that one out of every two pets are overweight?

It was revealed as part of the launch that 54 percent of America’s pets are overweight, putting them at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and a shortened life span. In terms of survey results, the chubbiest pet cities were Los Angeles at number one, followed by Washington D.C., Chicago, Minneapolis, and San Francisco.

When Alison Sweeney, host of NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” discovered that her dog Winky was one of them, she knew she had to change the food Winky was eating and her lifestyle. Now Alison wants to inspire other pet owners to do the same. She has eamed up with Hill’s Science Diet to launch the Million Pound Pledge – a national call-to-action for pet owners to help their cats and dogs lose weight and get back on track to living a happy, healthy lifestyle.

FIDO Friendly fans are invited to take the pledge to help their pets lose weight and get fit at www.PetFit.com. In addition to taking the Million Pound Pledge, all participants get a chance to win tickets to “The Biggest Loser” finale! You can also find out how to participate in a live chat with Alison on January 26 to discuss how to manage your cat or dogs weight.

As part of the Million Pound Pledge, participating owners will gain access to a support system[1] that includes:

Two live video chat sessions on the Science Diet Facebook page with Alison Sweeney to share pet weight loss stories (January 26 and March 20 – visit the Hill's Pet Nutrition Facebook page for more details)
Cat and dog weight loss tips from Alison Sweeney
Interactive body condition scoring that shows the proper body shape of a cat or dog
Weight and treat comparisons that translate pet weight gain and feeding into human terms
Rebates for Hill's^®Science Diet^® and Hill's^® Prescription Diet^®weight management foods

Alison was our cover girl in 2011 and we love this message and encourage all FIDO fans to get aboard the fit train!

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WebThriftStore.com and ASPCA Say Help Animals by Cleaning Up

January 11, 2012 • Rescue

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that it has teamed up with WebThriftStore.com to launch an online thrift store where its supporters can sell unneeded goods on behalf of the ASPCA, which will receive 80 percent of the sales proceeds. The ASPCA’s web thrift store is open to anyone – whether they’re just cleaning out their closets, prefer to donate items instead of cash, looking for a tax deduction or seeking bargains – at http://ASPCA.WebThriftStore.com.

“The creation of this online thrift store gives our supporters a unique new way to make a valuable contribution to our cause,” said Jim Echikson, senior director of corporate partnerships for the ASPCA. “In lieu of making a monetary contribution – which can be tough for some in this economy – the public can now finally get around to cleaning out their garages, attics, and storage lockers and help animals in need across the country at the same time.”

According to NPD Research, there is an estimated $700 billion of stuff cluttering homes and costing people money in storage facilities throughout the United States. WebThriftStore.com offers a simple way to help the public quickly and easily get these items into the hands of people who want them, while at the same time helping causes which are important to them.

“We are honored that the ASPCA has chosen to join us as one of our first charity partners,” said WebThriftStore.com Founder and CEO Douglas Krugman. “WebThriftStore.com enables the ASPCA and its supporters to get all the benefits of running a national network of thrift stores without the costs and risks of creating one with bricks-and-mortar. It makes sense for everyone – charities, donors and shoppers – and it’s something everyone can feel good about.”

Prices on WebThriftStore.com are set by donors, and once items are sold, donors receive acknowledgement letters to substantiate 100 percent of their value as charitable contributions for tax purposes. Donors also receive free, prepaid mailing labels online, to print and affix to packages shipped via The United States Postal Service (USPS) or they can arrange local delivery of purchases directly with buyers. Shipping supplies are available free of charge. All purchases are backed by WebThriftStore.com’s 30-Day Buyer Assurance Guarantee. WebThriftStore.com’s free online platform is open to all registered 501(c)(3) organizations, enabling them to solicit in-kind donations from supporters and receive cash from their sale.

And if people think they feel great after doing a little cleaning and organizing, imagine how good they would feel if they knew they were also helping animals in need?

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Le Parc Suite Hotel Holds Facebook Contest to Find New Director of Pet Relations

January 10, 2012 • Travel

Le Parc Suite Hotel announces Facebook Contest encouraging fans to vote for the top canine candidate to fill the role of Director of Pet Relations. Participants are encouraged to “Like” a candidate by January 27, 2012 and the pooch with the most “Likes” will become the new Director of Pet Relations for Le Parc Suite Hotel.

Details of the Director of Pet Relations Facebook Contest:
•Become a fan of Le Parc Suite Hotel on Facebook and visit the Pet Relations tab to vote.
•Fans must "Like" their favorite pooch candidate by Friday, January 27, 2012.
•The pooch with the most "Likes" takes over as the new Director of Pet Relations for Le Parc Suite Hotel.
•The new director will be announced on Facebook on January 27th.

In addition to the announcement on Facebook, the chosen Director of Pet Relations will be featured on Le Parc’s Pet Friendly and Pet Policy Pages.

About Le Parc Suite Hotel:
Pets looking to make their big break need not look further for a pet-friendly West Hollywood hotel that is charming, stylish and exceptional for animals and owners alike. Nestled in the chic West Hollywood neighborhood, the sophisticated boutique hotel and its 154 opulent suites provide a fitting environment in which guests and their furry pals can rest and rejuvenate in the most prestigious of all pet-friendly LA hotels.

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Hallmark Channel Salutes Betty White on Her 90th Birthday

January 10, 2012 • Trends

Hallmark Channel ‘The Golden Girls’ Marathon/Betty White's 90th Birthday

Monday, January 16 (3 p.m. ET/PT, 2 C)

About Betty White: Betty Marion White was born on Jan. 17, 1922 in Oak Park, Illinois, which means that the lady who starred as the adorably ditzy Rose on the iconic TV comedy “The Golden Girls” turns 90 years old. And yet White still seems to be every place. She's starring in a new comedy series (“Hot in Cleveland”), popping up on the Emmy^® Awards, and is in general busier than actresses half her age -- heck, even a quarter her age. Father Time simply doesn't seem to affect the lady like it does the rest of us. With that in mind, Hallmark Channel salutes the world's most beloved nonagenarian with a Golden Girls Marathon the day before birthday number 90. It begins on Monday, January 16 at 3 p.m. and runs for 11 consecutive hours, featuring 14 episodes that represent Rose's Greatest Hits from the series that originally ran on NBC from 1985-92. The Rose-A-Thon kicks off with “Rose the Prude” (1985), which finds our favorite wacky dame reluctantly going on a blind date with Blanche (Rue McClanahan) only to have it blossom into a serious relationship. That's followed at 3:30 by ”A Little Romance” (also from '85), wherein Rose starts having second thoughts about marrying Dr. Newman since he's a little person. Rose later battles age discrimination (4 p.m.); fends off a lesbian advance (4:30 p.m.); fears for her mortality (5:30); is forced to care for her late uncle's pig (6:30); faces down stage fright while giving a eulogy at her aunt's funeral (7 p.m.); deals with the intellectual friends of her college professor boyfriend, Miles (7:30 p.m.); crashes a high school reunion (9 p.m.); and undergoes triple-bypass heart surgery (9:30). What's particularly amazing about Betty, besides her phenomenal endurance and vigor, is the fact that she's appeared so effortless in switching character gears over the years. Consider that long before “The Golden Girls,” she'd starred as a completely different personality on the classic sitcom “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Let's face it: This is Betty White's world. The rest of us just look on in reverence and awe.

Plus FIDO Friendly magazine featured Betty as our 50th issue Golden Girl in 2011!

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