Tell us about the most memorable trip you ever took with the special Fido(s) in your life. Perhaps you go away once a year, or maybe an overnight or an occasional weekend getaway. Maybe you’ve had a humorous, serious, or tail-wagging experience en route to the groomer, a friend’s house or during a holiday excursion.

~~~or~~~~

Maybe you’ve yet to take that special trip with Fido. Tell us what your perfect Fido-friendly vacation would be. Cross country tour of America? Backpacking in the wilderness? A Fido-friendly cruise? We want to know. (no talking dogs, please)

What can I win?

*FIRST PLACE (GRAND PRIZE):

* Mansion at Judges Hill in Austin, Texas: A gift certificate for one night in a Premier Deluxe room, include $50 pet fee, and breakfast for two. Enjoy a night away at the historically charming Mansion at Judges’ Hill with your furry friend in tow! During your stay, you will enjoy one-night’s accommodations in a Premier Deluxe guest room along with breakfast for two, complimentary overnight parking and high-speed wireless internet. Because we are just as committed to our pet guests as we are to their owners, we have had unique pet amenities custom designed for our four-legged patrons. In preparation for their arrival, our pet rooms are arranged with a logo-embroidered pet bed, feeding mat with porcelain food and water bowls as well as a basket of treats to take home. (Approx. retail value $350.00)

And *  Amalfi Hotel in Chicago: A 1-night stay in deluxe King accommodations with our Pamper Your Pooch package (amenities include a dog bed and water bowl; a gift bag with a toy, treat and Bobbie Panther pet shampoo; a Fido Friendly magazine and the Amalfi’s Pet Lover’s Guide to the Windy City). (Approx. retail value $265.00)

* Precision Pet SnooZZy OrthoAir Inflatable Pet Bed ($15 to $86 retail depending on size)

* FIDO Friendly magazine ($19.95 retail value)

• Total estimated retail value FIRST  prize: $715.00

* SECOND PLACE:

* A 2-night stay as Jackson Mountain Homes (Gatlinburg, TN) in the Hill Haven Cabin, (Retail value $549.56 value plus pet fee is waived.)

* Gamma2 the Travel-tainer (retail $14.99) and the Vittles Vault (retail $32.00)

* FIDO Friendly magazine ($19.95 retail value)

• Total estimated retail value SECOND prize: $617.00

* THIRD PLACE:

* From Admiral Fell Inn and Harbor Magic : Winner will receive a Two Night VIP Experience at the National Aquarium in the Harbor Magic Hotel of the winner’s choice (based on availability)

Includes:  VIP Immediate Entry for Two to the National Aquarium in Baltimore (additional tickets can be added); Admission into Our Ocean Planet: The New Dolphin Show; Admission into the NEW 4-D Immersion Theater; Exclusive Harbor Magic Animal Planet Australia Creature Card; Overnight Accommodations at a Harbor Magic Hotel of your choice; Breakfast experience Pier 5 Hotel – Breakfast served at Pizzazz Admiral Fell Inn – Breakfast served at Meli Brookshire Suites – Full buffet breakfast in the Cloud Club; Harbor Magic Passport Coupon Booklet containing hundreds of dollars in savings at area retail shops, restaurants and more! Top line value $359.00.

• PetZen Hitch N’ Leash ($18.99 retail value) and PetZen portable drinking bowl ($14.99 retail value)
• Paul Frank collar and leash ($60 retail value)
• FIDO Friendly magazine ($19.95 retail value)
• Total estimated retail value THIRD prize: $473.00

Random door prizes for anyone who enters. Does not have to be Top 10 – these prizes will go to anyone entering the contest who follows the rules:

*  Inn by the Sea – Maine – one night stayover for you and Fido (retail approx $300)

*Solvit Dog Safety Harness (retail price range $18.99 to $34.99 depending on size)

* Gangs of New Yorkie choice of personalized harness or collar (approx $30)

* earthbath line of green tea all natural dog grooming products (retail $58.95)

* One-year subscription to FIDO Friendly magazine (retail $19.95)

Rules and Regulations for FIDO Friendly Online Writing Contest

1.         Eligibility

The FIDO Friendly magazine writing contest (the Contest) is offered by FIDO Friendly magazine and sponsors named below as sponsors to residents of states where such contests are allowed by the laws of those states/Canada. By entering the Contest, you accept sole responsibility for determining whether your participation is legal in any jurisdiction that applies to you. Participants must be of the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence and have an active email account and Internet access at the time of entry. Employees and directors of Sponsor, its advertising and promotion agencies, the Contest judges and its legal advisors, and the immediate family (parent, child, sibling and spouse of each) or members of the households of such employees and directors (those who have lived in the same household for at least three of the 12 months preceding the applicable Contest Period) are not eligible. By entering, you agree to these “Official Rules” and that the decisions of Sponsor are final and binding in all respects. This Contest is void where prohibited or restricted by law.

2.         Contest Period

Contest begins October 1, 2010 and ends on April 30, 2011. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m.EST on April 30, 2011.

3.         Entry Specifics

A. To enter the Contest, your computer must accept cookies, or any successor or similar technology, so that FIDO Friendly magazine is able to track your entries in the Contest. You may submit only one submission for this writing contest. Each article submission (Submission) is considered an entry in the contest. All Submissions are subject to the Submission requirements as stated in these rules of FIDO Friendly magazine.

B. Entrants may not enter with multiple emails and/or multiple neither identities nor may entrants use any automated entry mechanism or artifice to obtain more than the maximum number of entries. Any entrant who attempts to participate with multiple emails and/or multiple identities or uses any device or artifice to obtain more than the maximum number of entries will be disqualified.

C. Entries must be original, unpublished stories. All entries must be written in English. Total word count cannot exceed 1000 words. (word count does not include titles). Any stories received over 1000 words will be immediately disqualified. Word count will be verified with Microsoft Word word counter.

D. Residents of the United States and Canada ages 18 (as of October 1, 2010) and older are eligible to participate in the Writing Contest.

E. Works that have been published online or in print, including self-published works and/or works broadcast or delivered to or in front of a public audience are considered previously published and are not eligible for this writing contest.

4.        Submission Specifics and How To’s; VERY IMPORTANT – Failure to follow the results will mean disqualification

A. The only acceptable method of submission is online. Entries must be emailed to writefido@fidofriendly.com. All entries must be contained in the body of the email. Do NOT send attachments, as attachments will not be opened. Failure to enter submission in the body of email will result in disqualification of entry.

B. Do not enter submissions more than once. The first submission is the only one that will count. DO not send your submission more than once. We will use the first version of the submission you give us. No dogs who talk.

C. Email acknowledgment of entry will be made to those who provide a valid email address. Email acknowledgment of entry will be made within 3 business days of receiving submission. DO not write us asking if we received your submission. There will be no replies.

D. Late stories are disqualified. Deadline must be adhered to or submission does not qualify for contest.

E. In the event the deadline passes and you have not heard from us with an acknowledgment email, do not write asking us if we received submission nor send it in late. It will not count.

F. All submissions must have a title. Without a title, submission will be disqualified.

G. All submissions must include real name, address, phone number, date of birth, email address, title of submission and submission text in the body of the email sent to writ...@fidofriendly.com .

4.         Winner Selection

All submissions will be screened by staff of FIDO Friendly magazine and narrowed down to the top 10 submissions. Panel of guest judges will then narrow the top 10 selections down to top 3 submissions. These top 3 submissions as chosen by panel of guest judges will be considered the winners of this contest.

5.         Contest Judging/Criteria

All submissions will be judged 35% originality, 35% adherence to contest theme and rules, 30% grammatical and language usage/correctness. Decisions of the judges are final.

6.         Prizes

The prizes offered in this writing contest will be listed below and these rules will appear on the FIDO Friendly magazine website. Sponsor names will appear in print magazine. Winners will be posted on FIDO Friendly magazine website. All potential winners are subject to verification at FIDO Friendly and Sponsor’s sole discretion. No assignment, transfer or substitution of any prize is permitted. All prizes are expressed in U.S. Dollars. By accepting a prize, Contest winners agree that their name and likeness may be used for advertising and promotional purposes in FIDO Friendly magazine and Sponsor’s discretion in any and all media now known or hereinafter developed without territorial or time limitations. Taxes and transportation (where applicable) on prizes are the sole responsibility of winner. Prizes subject to change by Sponsors or FIDO Friendly magazine at any time.

7.         General Conditions

A. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it finds, in its sole discretion, to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Contest or the Website; to be in violation of the User Agreement of the Website; to be acting in violation of these Official Rules; to be acting in a unethical or disruptive manner, or with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other person, as determined by Sponsor’s its sole discretion.

B.         Any use of cartel, robotic, automatic, macro, programmed or like entry methods will void all such entries by such methods and persons using any such methods will be disqualified. If for any reason this Contest is not capable of being conducted as planned due to infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes which, in the sole opinion of Sponsor, corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of this Contest, Sponsor reserves the right to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Contest. If the Contest is terminated due to tampering or technical difficulties prior to its expiration date, notice will be posted on FIDO Friendly magazine’s website.

C. All personal information, such as your name, address, telephone number, email address, date of birth and occupation, is collected solely for the purposes of administering this contest and shall not be used for any other purpose without your consent. By providing this information, you consent to it being used for the stated purposes.

8.         ANY ATTEMPT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE ANY WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE CONTEST MAY BE A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS, AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDIES FROM THOSE RESPONSIBLE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

9.         LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY

A. SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LATE, LOST, ILLEGIBLE, MISDIRECTED ENTRIES, AND SPONSOR  DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERROR, OMISSION, INTERRUPTION, DELETION, DEFECT, DELAY IN OPERATION OR TRANSMISSION, COMMUNICATIONS LINE FAILURE, THEFT OR DESTRUCTION OR UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO ITS WEBSITES. SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY PROBLEMS OR TECHNICAL MALFUNCTION OF ANY TELEPHONE NETWORK OR TELEPHONE LINES, COMPUTER ON-LINE SYSTEMS, SERVERS, COMPUTER EQUIPMENT, SOFTWARE, FAILURE OF ANY E-MAIL OR ENTRY TO BE RECEIVED BY SPONSOR ON ACCOUNT OF TECHNICAL PROBLEMS, HUMAN ERROR OR TRAFFIC CONGESTION ON THE INTERNET OR AT ANY WEBSITE, OR ANY COMBINATION THEREOF.

B.         SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INCORRECT OR INACCURATE CAPTURE OF INFORMATION OR THE FAILURE TO CAPTURE SUCH INFORMATION, WHETHER CAUSED BY WEBSITE USERS, TAMPERING OR HACKING, OR BY ANY OF THE EQUIPMENT OR PROGRAMMING ASSOCIATED WITH OR UTILIZED IN THE CONTEST. SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR INJURY OR DAMAGE TO PARTICIPANTS’ OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON’S COMPUTER RELATED TO OR RESULTING FROM PARTICIPATING IN THIS CONTEST OR DOWNLOADING MATERIALS FROM OR USE OF THE WEBSITE.

C.        IN NO EVENT WILL SPONSOR. ITS DISTRIBUTORS, AFFILIATES, SUBSIDIARIES, VENDORS, ADVERTISING AGENCIES AND PROMOTION AGENCIES AND EACH OF THEIR RESPECTIVE DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES OR AGENTS, BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OR LOSSES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THIS CONTEST, ACCESS TO AND USE OF THE WEBSITE OR THE DOWNLOADING FROM AND/OR PRINTING MATERIAL DOWNLOADED FROM THE WEBSITE. WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, EVERYTHING ON THE WEBSITE AND IN THIS CONTEST IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. SOME JURISDICTIONS MAY NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES SO SOME OF THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. CHECK YOUR LOCAL LAWS FOR ANY RESTRICTIONS OR LIMITATIONS REGARDING THESE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS

10.       Arbitration and Disputes

As a condition of participating in this Contest, you agree that any and all disputes which cannot be resolved between the parties, claims and causes of action arising out of or connected with this Contest, or any prizes awarded, or the determination of the Winner shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action exclusively by arbitration pursuant to the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association, then effective. Further, in any such dispute, under no circumstances will you be permitted to obtain awards for, and you hereby waive all rights to claim punitive, incidental or consequential damages, or any other damages, including attorneys’ fees, other than your actual out-of- pocket expenses (i.e., costs associated with entering this Contest), and you further waive all rights to have damages multiplied or increased. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or your rights and obligations, and Sponsor’s rights and obligations in connection with this Contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of Idaho without giving effect to the conflict of laws rules thereof. In the event of a dispute as to the identity of any winner based on an e-mail address, the winning entry will be declared made by the Authorized Account Holder of the email address submitted at time of entry. Authorized Account Holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an e-mail address by an Internet access provider, on-line service provider or other organization that is responsible for assigning e- mail addresses for the domain associated with the submitted e-mail address.

11.       Winner’s List

The names of the Contest winners will also be posted at FIDO Friendly magazine’s website.

12.       Rights

Entrants warrant they have written/authored/created the submission they are submitting and that they own all rights to it. Entrants will indemnify and hold FIDO Friendly magazine and its affiliates harmless from and against any and all loss, damage, costs and other expense arising out of claims, whatever their nature, resulting directly or indirectly from breach of this warranty.

FIDO Friendly magazine has the right to first publish and reproduce the winning entries, in the original language and in translation, on the internet as well as on accompanying material of products that could be manufactured or sold.

FIDO Friendly magazine shall also have exclusive rights to manufacture, sell and license products derived from the winning entries.

FIDO Friendly magazine shall also have all rights to record and broadcast a reading of the winning entries, in whole or in part, and all rights to publish and reproduce the winning entries in FIDO Friendly magazine and on the internet.

Winners, as well as the people accompanying them, or their parents or guardians if the winners and/or the people accompanying them are minors, shall agree, if necessary, to have their name and/or picture, including their photograph, and/or their voices used for advertising purposes related to this contest, free of charge.

To be declared a winner, entrants have to meet all the conditions described in these rules. The winners must be at least 18 years of age as of start date of contest and agree to sign a document attesting to their or the winner’s eligibility as stipulated in these regulations and releasing FIDO Friendly magazine and its affiliates and sponsors from all liability for any damage or loss resulting from participation in this contest.

12.       SPONSORS AND PRIZES noted at beginning of post. (Prizes may change at any time and at discretion of FIDO Friendly magazine and/or Sponsors. No cash substitution. Prizes are not transferable. Winners must provide mailing address and contact information for prizes. Prizes will be mailed to winner and details provided after the contest. Prizes of travel must be used within time frame and rules of Sponsor.)

Nicollette Sheridan sat down with FIDO Friendly to talk about National Guide Dog

Month and joining Natural Balance Pet Foods, PETCO and independent pet stores to support the cause.

FIDO Friendly: Tell us about your role as spokesperson for National Guide Dog Month and how did you become involved?

Nicollette Sheridan: Natural Balance is a company that I believe in. I love their organic kibble and so does my very finicky dog, Oliver. They are people who truly care about animals and have huge hearts. When it was brought to my attention that Natural Balance, PETCO and independent pet stores were raising money to help the blind with gifting these incredibly smart and loving dogs to comfort and guide them through their lives—I couldn’t wait to help in any way I could. Guide Dogs of the Desert is a wonderful organization that provides all services to the blind at no charge. I had the privilege of spending time with them and working with their puppies and grown guide dogs. The money being raised in the month of September will enable Guide Dogs of the Desert and all guide dog schools across the country to help raise many more dogs in their programs that will help give the “miracle of independence” to so many more people in need. Every PETCO across the country is participating. When you make a purchase at PETCO or a participating independent pet store near you—you can round up your payment and every penny will go to aiding a blind person in need. Or you can simply make a donation. Quality of life is something we all deserve so let’s make a difference and help the blind find their way.

FF: What do you want our readers to know about these special dogs?

NS: Dogs like to have a job. Purpose is as important to them as it is to us.

(For the Full Exclusive Interview, see Sep/Oct 2010 Issue of FIDO Friendly)

By Carol Bryant, Photography iStock

When six-year-old Labrador Retriever, Katie, went in for a routine spay, she didn’t recover as expected. Transferred to Michigan State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, it was discovered Katie had a very rare complication of her spleen, requiring its removal. During the 10-day period to save Katie’s life, she received 26 units of plasma and nine units of blood from 30 donor dogs. “Her bill totaled more than $18,410 of which PurinaCare Insurance paid $14,468,” Anne Hatfield said on behalf of Purina. Like its human counterpart, we never know when the need for health insurance will arise. Dogs suffer accidents, injuries, mishaps and unexpected diagnoses as we all do. Fido lovers know all too well the sacrifices made in the name of dog. They rely on us, but will the funds be there when the time comes? For many, pet health insurance is becoming a viable option. Knowing the insurance is there for routine usage as well as emergency situations or disease diagnosis and treatment means peace of mind to most of all. With so many different insurances available, just where does one start? Is it worth it? How much will it cost? FIDO Friendly magazine dishes out the questions every dog owner should ask prospective pet insurance companies. What to Ask, and more…

(For the Full Exclusive Story, see Sep/Oct 2010 Issue of FIDO Friendly)

Checkout These Websites for More Information

• VPI
• Embrace
• PetFirst (Petfinder)
• Purina
• Go Pet Plan
• AKC
• Pet Assure
• Trupanion
• Pets Best
• Petcare Insurance

Petco has generously donated a basket full of goodies to keep Fido’s mind active. Included in the basket are holistic, natural and organic doggy treats, chews and care products.

How would you like your Fido’s tail to wag when he/she sees this bountiful basket?

How do you win? Tell us your Fido’s favorite toy or treat. You can comment as many times as you like but only the first entry you submit counts.

When does it start and end? The contest starts now. The contest ends at midnight Eastern time zone on Monday, 11/01/10. FIDO Friendly staff and their families are not eligible to win.

What are we judged on? One random winner.

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 notified and announced on the FIDO Friendly blog within 5 days of contest closing date. Winner must provide name and mailing address so we can ship you the prizes.

Items may include some or all of the following:

Basket Products

Interactive Toys to keep pets stimulated and prevent negative behavior:

• WARE Dog-E-Logic Interactive Dog Game made from natural woods, a puzzle game with multiple levels of difficulty for small to medium dogs to discover where their favorite treats are hiding. $24.97 http://tinyurl.com/27rqdr6
• JW Pet Amaze-A-Ball hide-a-treat interactive toy made of 100% natural rubber, from $6.97: http://tinyurl.com/38a5mg8
• Planet PETCO Floppy Farm Squeek Toy from natural vegetable dyes and fibers, $10.27: http://tinyurl.com/339g88p

Products to encourage consistent daily activity:

• Bison Pet Eco Moody Blues Zig Zag Collar made from recycled plastics, from $10.27: http://tinyurl.com/3xklk44
• Hyper Products Woody’s Barbells natural wood fetch toy, from $7.97: http://tinyurl.com/3a7lsle

Natural supplements to calm pet anxiety:

• Pet Naturals of Vermont Calming Soft Chews for Dogs, from $5.97: http://tinyurl.com/334dvms
• Only Natural Pet Herbal Ease Calming Supplement, $9.59: http://tinyurl.com/37cn8jx

Hands-On products to lovingly reassure your pet:

• Vet’s Best Moisture Mist Conditioner Natural Formula soothes dry skin, $9.97: http://tinyurl.com/36szkef
• Espree Paw Balm all natural formula to condition and restore paws and elbow joints, $8.97: http://tinyurl.com/36rrxx9

And now for the legal stuff: Here are the rules:

Rules and Regulations of the Contest:

No Purchase Necessary to enter or win. Void where prohibited by law. Just follow the Official Rules below for all the details.

1. Can I Participate?

This contest is open to all residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of

Columbia and Canada who are eighteen (18) years or older as of 08/25/10, except as provided in Paragraph 6 below.

2. How Do I Enter?

The contest begins immediately and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, 11/01/10. All entries must be made in response to this blog post.

Online Method: To enter this contest via the Internet go to: www.blog.fidofriendly.com and reply to this post as described to submit your entry Online. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, 11/01/10to be eligible to win.

3. What Can I Win?

See above.

4. How Do I Win?

Winning entry will be drawn at random on or about Tuesday, 11/02/10. Prize winner will be determined by a random drawing. The drawing will be supervised by employees of FIDO Friendly magazine. All expenses and incidentals not mentioned above are the responsibility of the winners. No substitution or transfer of prize or cash redemption is permitted, but FIDO Friendly and/or sponsors may, at its option, substitute cash value or another prize it believes is of equal or greater value. Taxes are the responsibility of each winner. Odds of winning each prize will be determined by the number of eligible entries received. All prizes will be awarded.

5. How Do I Find Out If I Won?

Prize winners will be notified by within approximately 5 days after the date of the drawing. If a potential winner declines to accept the prize, forfeits the prize, has violated any contest rule, does not respond to award notification by the date listed on notification, or is found to be ineligible, the winner will be disqualified. Winners hereby release FIDO Friendly and sponsors and its employees, affiliates, agents, and representatives from all liability and responsibility of any kind which is related in any way to the prize (including without limitation any property loss, damage, personal injury or death) and consent to the use of their names and likenesses for advertising and promotional purposes without additional compensation, except where prohibited by law. Prize winners may be required to sign a Liability/Publicity Release.

6. Who Cannot Participate?

Employees of FIDO Friendly and sponsors and their immediate families, and persons living in the same household as such employees, and persons associated with FIDO Friendly’s and sponsor advertising and promotion agencies.

7. General Conditions.

Open to residents of the fifty United States and the District of Columbia and Canada. Void where prohibited by law. This contest is subject to all applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations. By entering the contest, each entrant agrees to be bound by these rules and the decisions of FIDO Friendly magazine and sponsors, whose decisions are final and binding in all respects.

8. How Do I Obtain a Winners List?

Winner will be announced on the blog on date indicated.

9. How Will Disputes Be Handled?

Each entrant agrees that:

A. Any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with this contest, or any prizes awarded, shall be resolved by binding arbitration. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, each party shall select one arbitrator and both arbitrators shall then select a third. The third arbitrator so selected shall arbitrate said dispute. The arbitration shall be governed by the rules of the American Arbitration Association then in force and effect;
B. Any and all claims, judgments, damages and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering this contest, but in no event attorneys’ fees; and
C. Under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and each entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental, and consequential damages, and any other damages (other than actual out-of-pocket expenses), and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased.
D. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of entrant and FIDO Friendly magazine and sponsors in connection with this contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Idaho, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of Idaho.

10. Who Is The Sponsor Of This Contest?

This promotion is sponsored by FIDO Friendly magazine and Petco. Sponsors reserve the right to cancel this contest at any time and substitute another in its place.

How do you win? Join the Dog is Good Facebook page by visiting http://www.facebook.com/dogisgood OR go to the website at http://www.dogisgood.com, select a product and write about it in this blog post.

When does it start and end? The contest starts now. The contest ends at midnight Eastern time zone on Monday, 11/01/10. FIDO Friendly staff and their families are not eligible to win.

What are we judged on? One random winner.

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 notified and announced on the FIDO Friendly blog within 5 days of contest closing date. Winner must provide name and mailing address so we can ship you the prizes.

And now for the legal stuff: Here are the rules:

Rules and Regulations of the Contest:

No Purchase Necessary to enter or win. Void where prohibited by law. Just follow the Official Rules below for all the details.

1. Can I Participate?

This contest is open to all residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of
Columbia and Canada who are eighteen (18) years or older as of 08/25/10, except as provided in Paragraph 6 below.

2. How Do I Enter?

The contest begins immediately and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, 11/01/10. All entries must be made in response to this blog post.
Online Method: To enter this contest via the Internet go to: www.blog.fidofriendly.com and reply to this post as described to submit your entry Online. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, 11/01/10to be eligible to win.

3. What Can I Win?

See above.

4. How Do I Win?

Winning entry will be drawn at random on or about Tuesday, 11/02/10. Prize winner will be determined by a random drawing. The drawing will be supervised by employees of FIDO Friendly magazine. All expenses and incidentals not mentioned above are the responsibility of the winners. No substitution or transfer of prize or cash redemption is permitted, but FIDO Friendly and/or sponsors may, at its option, substitute cash value or another prize it believes is of equal or greater value. Taxes are the responsibility of each winner. Odds of winning each prize will be determined by the number of eligible entries received. All prizes will be awarded.

5. How Do I Find Out If I Won?

Prize winners will be notified by within approximately 5 days after the date of the drawing. If a potential winner declines to accept the prize, forfeits the prize, has violated any contest rule, does not respond to award notification by the date listed on notification, or is found to be ineligible, the winner will be disqualified. Winners hereby release FIDO Friendly and sponsors and its employees, affiliates, agents, and representatives from all liability and responsibility of any kind which is related in any way to the prize (including without limitation any property loss, damage, personal injury or death) and consent to the use of their names and likenesses for advertising and promotional purposes without additional compensation, except where prohibited by law. Prize winners may be required to sign a Liability/Publicity Release.

6. Who Cannot Participate?

Employees of FIDO Friendly and sponsors and their immediate families, and persons living in the same household as such employees, and persons associated with FIDO Friendly’s and sponsor advertising and promotion agencies.

7. General Conditions.

Open to residents of the fifty United States and the District of Columbia and Canada. Void where prohibited by law. This contest is subject to all applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations. By entering the contest, each entrant agrees to be bound by these rules and the decisions of FIDO Friendly magazine and sponsors, whose decisions are final and binding in all respects.

8. How Do I Obtain a Winners List?

Winner will be announced on the blog on date indicated.

9. How Will Disputes Be Handled?

Each entrant agrees that:

A. Any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with this contest, or any prizes awarded, shall be resolved by binding arbitration. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, each party shall select one arbitrator and both arbitrators shall then select a third. The third arbitrator so selected shall arbitrate said dispute. The arbitration shall be governed by the rules of the American Arbitration Association then in force and effect;

B. Any and all claims, judgments, damages and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering this contest, but in no event attorneys’ fees; and

C. Under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and each entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental, and consequential damages, and any other damages (other than actual out-of-pocket expenses), and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased.

D. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of entrant and FIDO Friendly magazine and sponsors in connection with this contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Idaho, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of Idaho.

10. Who Is The Sponsor Of This Contest?

This promotion is sponsored by FIDO Friendly magazine and Dogisgood.com. Sponsors reserve the right to cancel this contest at any time and substitute another in its place.

[ Download PDF ]

Story and photography by Lorraine Chittock

(Cont. from FIDO Friendly Nov/Dec issue)

Will you stop scratching?” I mumble from a deep sleep. Fleas. When I reach over to comfort Dog, my hand grazes the wall. Vibrating. Like crazy. Raised in California, I don’t usually get alarmed by earthquakes, but our cabin is constructed of wood, on stilts and perched on an extremely steep hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Chile is having an 8.8 magnitude earthquake. During the next 90 seconds the capital of Santiago will be displaced almost 10 inches west in what will be Chile’s second worst earthquake. We’re in La Ballena, 200 miles north of the epicenter.

When the shaking worsens, I fling open the window and jump out stark naked onto the deck. Boxes fall from atop the wardrobe as I lift Dog and Bruiser outside. Once my canine companions are safe, I reach back inside to grab a comforter to drape around my body. My laptop containing all the files for my new book Los Mutts, my passport, clothing and shoes stay inside. In a fraction of a second I have decided what’s truly important in my life.

We keep watch on the ocean—calm though at this moment a tsunami is devastating several coastal towns including Talhuanaco where our pack once camped for months. No electricity. The blackout will affect 93 percent of Chile’s population. Amazingly, there is no damage to the three-bedroom cabin we rent for $200 a month.

Six hours before the earthquake, I’d clicked “purchase” for an airline ticket to Dallas—a speaking and book tour awaits me. Santiago’s International airport suffers structural damage. All flights are canceled. Communication is sporadic, but I’m able to reschedule. I check for news on how animals are coping.

Two years before, Mount Chaitén had erupted in Patagonia. Just as in New Orleans at the time of Hurricane Katrina, residents of Chaitén were forced to evacuate the volcanic eruption without their pets. More than 600 dogs were left behind. Animal lovers in Chile mobilized to create their country’s first animal rescue operation. One of the first organizations on the ground was CEFU (Control Etico de la Fauna Urbana or Ethical Treatment for Urban Animals,www.cefu.cl).

The 2010 earthquake affects a greater area. Entire cities are devastated and families are forced to leave in search of food and supplies. CEFU immediately begins gathering volunteers and medical supplies to help the animals. Many of the photos in Los Mutts are taken in Chile, including a few featuring CEFU in action.

While animal lovers rise to the occasion, I scurry around getting ready for our flight. Leashes. I can count on one hand the times I’ve needed them in the past four years. During my first months in Mexico I was stunned by how few Latinos used them, even on busy streets. Owners trust that their dogs will watch for cars. With street dogs, of which there are many, rules of the road are often passed generation to generation by traffic savvy canine mothers. Pups not paying attention get injured, or worse. Though limping canines are not a rare sight, startlingly few bodies lie on highways, considering the huge preponderance of loose dogs.

On quiet streets I cautiously began doing the same with Dog and Bruiser. Wandering off lead gave them the freedom to sniff dogs they liked and avoid those they didn’t. Snarls were exchanged but rarely escalated. More than four years later and with stray mutt encounters in the hundreds, Bruiser and Dog each had only one scratch on both their faces. America will be different. I put their old leads in crates that I’ve purchased from Chile’s Home Depot. At the airport I drop off the luggage at the ticket counter before driving our trusty van to the customs office—a gift for the Chilean government, since I’m unable to legally sell it. Dog, Bruiser and I take a taxi back to the terminal. Because of earthquake damage, huge tents are erected for flights within Chile. The three of us enter and exit through three. Each time Dog and Bruiser are shooed by officials assuming they’re strays. “Son mis perros. They are my dogs,” I reply laughing. A simple misunderstanding; I still haven’t put on their collars. While living miles from the nearest town, there’s never been a need.

Also unfamiliar is tarmac, cement and glass. I feel like a country-bumpkin. Bruiser’s grin of excitement spreads to anxiety when we arrive at the American Airlines counter. Dog recognizes the sheets I put inside her crate and immediately dashes “home” and curls up inside. Bruiser, a dog who loves his freedom more than any other, is horrified about being incarcerated. He didn’t fare well flying from his native country of Kenya to San Francisco. But there is no way to return to America other than by air. Driving back is out of the question. I watch horrified as two men carry my beloved, captive canines to a conveyor belt. Dog and Bruiser watch horrified from inside their plastic cages. What have I done?

Once I arrive at Gate 27, I grill everyone in an American Airlines uniform regarding if my dogs are on board. On the tarmac at the bottom of the airline stairs two personnel reassure me that my dogs are already in cargo. I’m relieved. And scared. Dog and Bruiser are both 13 years old. For four years I’ve entertained fantasies of meeting someone with a private jet so we could fly as a pack. That person never materialized. There is no choice.

It’s a very long 12 hours. I had booked a seat as close to the front as possible to ensure I’m one of the first to disembark. Once out of the plane I jostle through other passengers who stroll leisurely along the hallways. The woman at passport control takes forever to stamp my documents. At baggage claim I drag two big boxes off the conveyor belt onto a trolley. I’m so focused on my luggage, I don’t notice two animal crates already on the ground. Dog and Bruiser!

Ten feet and paws prance, leap and bounce in ecstasy after 14 hours of separation. Airline officials watch with misty eyes. No one says, “Dogs aren’t allowed outside their crates!”

An American Airlines worker asks if I need help. “Yes, please!” Two loose dogs are added to my two huge boxes, two big dog crates, a duffl e bag plus laptop. I’m only 105 pounds. “The dogs need to be back in the crates,” the worker says apologetically. Dog whimpers with heartfelt sounds I’ve never before heard.

If you want to smuggle illegal goods into America, dogs could be the ticket. Instead of lining up like everyone else on the plane, we’re led to a special agriculture section. I’m the only one in line. “Rabies?” the man asks. I hand him all my paperwork: the rabies and distemper certificates from the vet and the form from SAG, Chile’s governmental agricultural office.

Meanwhile, the airline bellhop is asking numerous questions about my exotic dogs. After such a long absence, I’ve forgotten my Kenyan mutts resemble dingoes to many Americans.

“What’s in your boxes?” asks the official baggage controller. “Four years worth of junk!” I reply. Americans know about stuff. It’s flowing from everyone’s garage, cupboards and storage units. The boxes are sealed shut with duct tape. I’ll never be able to get all my “junk” back in the box should the man want to do a search. While crossing numerous land borders, the novelty factor of two traveling dogs meant we were often waved through customs without further ado. This man too nods his head for us to pass. Maybe America isn’t so different? The airline bellhop wheels everything out to the taxi stand. Because of the earthquake craziness, booking a rental car to drive a further two hours to a friend’s farm seemed too much. Instead, I’d secured a complimentary stay at Dallas’s W Hotel. “Doggies, we’ll adjust to the US in style!The first five taxis don’t take pets. Finally a large dog-friendly taxi arrives. The driver is an elderly man who looks like he’s stepped out of a documentary on sharecropping in the Deep South. “They ain’t gonna bite, are they?” the faux sharecropper drawls. “No, of course not,” I reply. Smart man. He knows if Dog and Bruiser climb aboard, his taxi becomes their territory. We skim through 6 am. traffic. Greeting us at the W Hotel is the most refreshing sight we could possibly imagine: an elegant outdoor fountain with endless streams of cascading water. The dogs are parched. While the bellhop removes boxes and bags from the taxi, Bruiser and Dog drink deeply from Dallas’s most appreciated dog bowl. The leads get hopelessly tangled while maneuvering through the double set of entrance doors. “I’ve forgotten how to do this,” I mutter. At reception I unleash Dog. She stands dutifully by my side. Gold tiles in the elevator lobby reflect three sets of eyes: all like deer caught in headlights. We share an elevator with a cluster of Dallas women. Big hair bobbing, one remarks with a Texas twang, “Ya’ll have such well-mannered dawgs. Mine are jus’ misbehaving, they’ve never acted so sweet since the day they was born.” Little does she know if the “wrong” dog wandered through the lobby, Dog and Bruiser would quickly turn into demons. “Why thank you,” I reply. Our room is huge and overlooks high-rises adorned with huge squares reflecting the cityscape. Mirrored tile everywhere. I’m dizzy from so many manmade materials. Four years in Latin America brought me closer to natural panoramas like the Andes Mountains, Tierra del Fuego and the Atacama desert—not cityscapes. A scalding rain-forest shower pummels feelings of uncertainty from my body and soul. As I dry, Dog barks maniacally. I rush from the bathroom stark naked. She’s crouched low to the ground, her tail swishing back and forth furiously. My jet-lagged brain decides there must be a rodent hiding beneath the plush ottoman. “At the W? This is America in style?” I crouch beside her and peer cautiously. My two eyes look back. At the base of the ottoman is mirrored tile. “Doggie! You’re barking at your reflection!” America is going to take some getting used to…

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Washington County Maine

Looking to the trees and wishing to escape the tourists? Head over to Washington County for a tranquil natural fortitude. Regionally, the birch, oak, aspen, maple, and ash trees produce a vibrant array of burnt oranges and fi ery reds. Also famous for being the world’s largest blueberry producer, take home a few quarts and sample the pies and pancakes while visiting. This area is generally the first place the sunrises each morning on US soil. Washington County is comprised of 85 percent woodlands, eight percent lakes and four percent bogs, so one can imagine the bountiful beauty gracing the landscape in the autumn months.

Acadia National Park in Mount Desert Maine

In 1947, a fire destroyed many spruce-fi r trees in this historic park and left behind pockets of space for the rich colors of fall to showcase themselves. Considered to be one of the best views in the state of Maine, the top of Cadillac Mountain at 1,532 feet is the highest point along the north Atlantic seaboard. Fido is welcome to color gaze with you. The “peak” season is generally considered to be mid-October but this varies. Certain lakes and trails prohibit Fido but the majority of Acadia welcomes the canine variety.

Lake Champlain Vermont

Complete with its own seven-day fall foliage calendar, www.scenesofvermont.com/, Lake Champlain is one of North America’s best places to fish. Instead of walking or riding through fall foliage, the waters of the lake invite a boat ride amidst historic lighthouses and forests of fall foliage. The Fido-friendly resort of Basin Harbor Club and Resort is located right on the lake. While in Vermont, check out Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. Situated on this glorious land is 400 acres of nature, leaves and the famous Dog Chapel.

Catskill Mountains New York

Located in New York’s Hudson Valley and within 100 miles north of the city, nestled away is this beautiful mountainous region harboring vibrancy and golds galore. During the last two weeks of September and up until mid-October Fido is sure to “start spreading the news” in this historic region. Harvest festivals, farmers markets, orchard picking and craft fairs line the charming towns that surround the Catskills. Often called “America’s First Wilderness,” there’s enough here to do to make a complete week’s vacation out of it. There is a unique leaf identification and peak peeping map online at www.nylovesu.co.uk.

Pocono Mountains Pennsylvania

Known to many as the “honeymoon capital of the world,” Pennsylvania is home to 127 tree varieties, so early fall reveals a glorious blanket of ambers, purples, oranges and more. Pack a picnic and take Fido to the Delaware River area where eagles soar, a rural countryside graces the landscape and sightseeing is at its most spectacular finest. State parks and wineries galore are scattered throughout this section of the state. Check out www.800poconos.com/ for more things to do while the leaves change color.

Shenandoah Valley Washington DC

Spend some time exploring Washington DC with Fido (including hiking Arlington National Cemetery together) and then head over to the nearby Virginian Shenandoah Valley. Located 90 miles west of the Capital Beltway, Shenandoah National Park features over 500 miles of trails and close to 200,000 acres of land. Take the scenic route and let Fido sniff the aromatic pleasures gracing the grounds along Skyline Drive. This 100+ mile road meanders throughout the length of Shenandoah National Park.

Blue Ridge Parkway North Carolina

Spanning 469 miles and connecting the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, this scenic drive is riddled with nature areas, trails and plenty of overlooks to pit-stop and take in nature’s beauty. Explore your inner hiker and take Fido to Grandfather Mountain along the parkway in Linville, North Carolina. Of special interest is Blowing Rock in the town of the same name. A 4,000 foot cliff overhanging a river gorge, check it out at www.theblowingrock.com.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park Texas

Yee haw meets dog paw and Fido’s ready to hit the fall trail. Nature’s spectacle displays her glory at McKittrick Canyon, one of the most prized locations in the entire state. Enchanting in this region are the leaves plus the cacti. Rock enthusiasts rejoice at Permian Reef. Trees of the region include Alligator Juniper, Ponderosa Pine and Velvet Ash. Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in all of Texas at 8,749 feet. For those less inclined to high the 80 miles of trails, a 4×4 road runs through the park for scenic driving.

Aspen Colorado

Though images of ski slopes and powder hounds, Aspen is not only king of snow. Rich yellow-gold leaves glisten on the aspen trees at their peak every fall. The John Denver Sanctuary is small yet rich in beauty and the nature Denver sang about in so many of his songs. Behold the quaking aspen tree of North America while visiting Denver. Listen closely when autumn’s breeze shakes the leaves and they “quake” and shimmer in the wind. Backpack through San Isabel National Forest where over a million acres of mountains are sure to take both yours and Fido’s breath away.

Great River Road Wisconsin

Located in the western region of the state, this area winds 250 miles along the shores of the Mississippi river. Quaint towns pepper themselves along the route for plenty of sightseeing, leaf peeping and Fido pit stops. Steamboats including the Delta Queen may pass by, as visitors are welcome to 50 local parks and beaches. The road generally parallels the river but where it does sway from it, vistas and spectacular farmlands are abundant. Learn more and check the fall color forecast at www.travelwisconsin.com/ fallcolor_report.aspx.

Emily B

Erin Kramer

Sacramento, CA

Julie & Edd Webb

Marblemount, WA