Traveling to Europe with Your Dog #infographic

Through the years, we've been incredibly lucky to have had numerous travel assignments take us to Europe. Although the bulk of our travel guidebook work involved the Caribbean and Texas, one guidebook took us to Cyprus and many magazine assignments took us to destinations ranging from Paris to Prague to Pompeii. Wherever we went, we took the opportunity to meet local dogs:

Never, however, did we get the chance to take a dog with us. We've always shared our hearts with large dogs, and we'd never consider flying a dog too large to travel in the cabin unless we were moving.

If you, however, have a small dog and are considering a vacation in Europe later this year, we've got an infographic to share. It's important to make those plans EARLY because international travel involves paperwork undertaken on a strict schedule. You'll need to have your veterinarian document your pet's immunizations and preventatives on a fixed schedule that varies by destination.

Wherever you may go, happy travels!

by Craig Manor.

The Chemicals You Use on Your Lawn Have Been Linked to Cancer in Dogs

Many of the most widely used pesticides and herbicides used on laws today, are linked to two types of cancer in dogs. Imagine what it could be doing to us, too.
Read more

Shelter Saturday: May 28

As people from coast to coast celebrate the unofficial start of summer this Memorial Day weekend, dogs in animal shelters across America are hoping that the beginning of a new season will bring with it the start of a new life in a forever home.

Each year an estimated 3.9 million dogs wind up in U.S. animal shelters. You can join the effort to change this staggering statistic by sharing photos of shelter animals via social media. Following are a few of the homeless dogs we highlighted this past week on Twitter. For a look at more adorable adoptables who are looking for families to love, and for the latest news of animal-loving luminaries who show their support for various paws causes, follow us at @HollywoodDogs.

Arizona

Marty, a 10-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a home https://t.co/9g9gknJx20 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 28, 2016

Roman, a 1-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a home https://t.co/x77iT1B5sH URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 24, 2016

Daisy, a 2-yr-old German Shepherd mix at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a home https://t.co/BXQjLw3rx4 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 22, 2016

California

Julie, a 2-yr-old Chihuahua at a shelter in #Downey, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/vdCce41hAD URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 26, 2016

Billy Jean (A461743), a 4-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a Moreno Valley #CA shelter, needs a home https://t.co/C6eEnOQpqc URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 28, 2016

Georgia

Bolt, a young Retriever mix at a shelter in #Savannah, #GA, needs a home https://t.co/9jHfC9pT9g URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 25, 2016

Pennsylvania

Brownie, a young Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Philadelphia, #PA, needs a home https://t.co/RTxPybIZUu URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 28, 2016

Texas

Hancock, a Rottweiler mix at a shelter in #Odessa, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/al7b9CjMc8 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 26, 2016

Molly, a Golden Retriever mix at a shelter in Texas City, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/YngQvPnyZu URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 25, 2016

Pixie, a Shepherd mix at a shelter in #Odessa, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/l5d18u9Ggo URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 24, 2016

Lisa Vanderpump Works to #StopYulinForever

A celebration that also provided an education about helping our canine companions in need, reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump was joined by L.A. animal lovers and famous friends of Fidos at West Hollywood Park on May 22nd to mark World Dog Day.

A pet holiday founded by The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, World Dog Day was held both in honor of the joy that our four-legged fiends bring to our lives, and to raise awareness of dogs in danger around the globe– among them, those who will face their fate at the upcoming Yulin Dog Meat Festival in China.

The list of animal-loving luminaries at the event who used their star wattage to shine a spotlight on Spots in need included:

The event's founder, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump (with her barking buddies, Giggy and Harrison):

Embed from Getty Images

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills co-star Kyle Richards (who was among the celebrities who took part in a 2015 Stop Yulin Forever march, also created by Lisa Vanderpump and her husband, Ken Todd):

Embed from Getty Images

Former NSYNC member Lance Bass (along with Lily, one of his rescue dogs):

Embed from Getty Images

Platinum-selling recording artist/animal advocate Leona Lewis:

Embed from Getty Images

The day of play in support of paws causes included pet adoptions, readings of Rovers' inner thoughts by pet psychics, a waterpark and playground for pups, canine-themed contests and puppy pampering thanks to treatments at a dog spa and boutique, all of which were enjoyed while live bands provided a soundtrack of toe-tapping and tail-wagging tunes.

Established in 2016 by Lisa Vanderpump and her husband, restaurateur Ken Todd, the Vanderpump Dog Foundation will focus on both domestic and international animal welfare issues. Among the dreams which the organization will be striving to turn from reverie to reality is the opening of the Vanderpumps Dogs Sanctuary, a West Hollywood dog rescue and care haven, and helping to put an end to the nightmare of the annual Yulin Dog Meat Festival in China.

Jackie Watson The French Reporter talks with the Tinseltown stars who attended the World Dog Day event:

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Fido + Fluffy's #FreebieFriday Plans for Memorial Day Weekend

The unofficial start to summer is now right around the corner. As we stop this weekend to remember the service men and women who have given their lives, I know that Memorial Day also marks the change of seasons.

We're already feeling a change from spring to summer here–in the past 24 hours, we've found two scorpions (one in the house, one outside), a sure sign of summer! And the creek, which is spring-fed and therefore really chilly, is definitely warming up. Irie and Tiki hop in without a second thought for their twice-daily swims.

This weekend we're hoping to get in some hiking and some swimming in the creek as we usher in summer. We hope all of you have a safe holiday weekend with your families!

Before you head off for holiday activities, don't miss this week's Fido + Fluffy's Freebie Friday blog hop which we co-host with To Dog With Love and CatTipper! This weekly blog hop offers a rundown of the many pet-themed giveaways underway right now across the web.

If you're a blogger with a pet-related giveaway, be sure to link up! Please link directly to your giveaway, not to your home page. (PLEASE don't link to non-giveaway posts.) We post a new blog hop every Thursday afternoon at 4pm ET.

Disclaimer: Each giveaway has its own entry rules. CatTipper, To Dog With Love, and DogTipper assume no responsibility for the legality of the rules governing the listings on other sites and giveaways that are posted here. We simply provide this forum as a gathering place for pet product giveaways to be offered. Fulfillment of each giveaway is done by the blog conducting the giveaway, not by the hosts of this giveaway hop; please contact the giveaway host with any questions regarding a giveaway or giveaway prize.

Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs

We've been lucky so far this spring…although the temperatures are already flirting with the 90s, we haven't had any hot, hot days.

Yet.

Living in Texas, hot weather is just a fact of life for at least four months of of the year. We'll soon be approaching triple digits, and the high temps will remain into September.

We adjust our days around the weather. The morning walk takes place earlier and it becomes our longest walk of the day. The evening walk, taken before dinner during the cooler months, shifts to after dinner. Even then, temperatures can remain toasty so evenings mean a shorter walk.

Today is National Heat Awareness Day (who knew?!), and we just received some handy tips from the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) reminding pet owners that intervening at the first sign of their pet overheating is the key to preventing a serious emergency. Asphalt and concrete become griddles during hot weather and, even if they're cool enough for your dog to walk on safely (and many times they're not), the heat coming up off those surfaces can be very taxing on your dog, especially smaller dogs whose bodies are closer to the hot surface.

Please take a moment to read the TVMA's tips on preventing heatstroke before you begin your summer fun in a few weeks:

Heatstroke occurs when a pet's normal body mechanisms cannot keep the body's temperature within a safe range. Considered a veterinary emergency, heatstroke can result in gastrointestinal upset, dysfunction of internal organs, internal bleeding, infection or even death in severe cases. It's up to pet owners to exercise caution to avoid heatstroke and seek veterinary care when their pet shows signs of overheating.

Signs of heatstroke in dogs include rapid breathing, a bright red tongue, red or pale gums, thickened saliva, depression, a refusal to walk, diarrhea and stumbling or staggering. In cats, the signs of heatstroke include restlessness, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and panting.

“Don't depend on your pet to let you know when they are overheating,” said Christine New, DVM, a TVMA member who practices at Hillside Veterinary Clinic in Dallas. “At the early stages of overheating, intervention by pet owners can prevent mild overheating from progressing to heatstroke, which is a serious, sometimes fatal condition.”

Pets are unable to sweat, which means they don't have the efficient cooling system the human body does. This also means that the effects of heat are felt much more strongly and much more quickly in pets than in humans, so it's up to pet owners to take steps to keep their pets' bodies in a safe temperature range.

Steps you can take to prevent heatstroke during periods of warm weather include:

• Never leave your pet in your car, even for a short period of time. Heatstroke can occur when a pet is left in a car even on a 70-degree day.


• Make sure your pet has access to shade and an ample amount of water while outside.


• Create a cooling source for your pet, like a kiddie pool filled with cool (not ice) water, or allow your pet to lie on bottles or sealed bags filled with water that are wrapped in a towel.


• Avoid exercising or walking your pet at peak temperature hours or on especially hot or humid days. A good rule of thumb is that pets are at risk for heatstroke once the outside temperature hits at least 80 degrees and a humidity of at least 90 percent.

If you think your pet is experiencing heatstroke, move your pet to a cool or shaded area immediately. Try to cool your pet's body by wetting it with cool water and exposing it to a breeze or a nearby fan. Make water available but do not force your pet to drink. Transport your pet to the nearest veterinary facility for treatment. The effects of heatstroke are often subtle and not immediately apparent. Even if your pet appears to have recovered, it's possible that they are still at risk for the damaging effects of heatstroke.

For more information on heatstroke, visit www.texvetpets.org/article/heatstroke-heat-can-be-fatal-to-your-pet. To download a colorful and informational poster about how to spot and prevent heatstroke, visit www.texvetpets.org//wp-content/uploads/2014/07/well-14-new-heatstroke-poster.pdf.

 

Rescue Dog Wins Palm Dog Award at Cannes Film Festival

The 2016 Cannes Film Festival has come to an end, and while movie buffs are applauding I, Daniel Blake's's Palme d'Or win, fans of Fidos are cheering for the tail-wagging talents of a rescued Rover who won top dog honors at the festival's annual celebration of Spots on the silver screen.

Nellie the English Bulldog used her acting chops to embody the role of a male dog named Marvin in the dramatic motion picture Paterson (starring actor Adam Driver from Star Wars VII- The Force Awakens), and her passion for her craft was recently rewarded with the coveted Palm Dog Award.  The honor has previously been bestowed on such canine thespians as Uggie from the Academy Award-winning movie The Artist, and the 2015 recipient, Maltipoo Lucky from the film Arabian Nights.

Adopted from The Humane Society of New York in 2008, the English Bulldog's abilities on both the big screen and on stage were honed with the help of her compassionate pet parent, famed animal trainer Bill Berloni. Sadly, Nellie crossed Rainbow Bridge on February 28, 2016 after battling incurable bone cancer, and in loving memory of his four-pawed pal Berloni asked that fans donate to The Sandy Fund to help adoptable dogs and cats at the rescue organization where he found Nellie.

Accepting the award on behalf of Nellie, Paterson's producer Carter Logan took a moment to shine a spotlight on the option of pet adoption, requesting that potential pet parents cast a dog in need in the starring role as their four-legged family member: “Please adopt- don't buy a dog or go to a breeder- as a tribute to Nellie.”

Along with the top award, an accolades was also given to acting canine Jacques, a French Dalmatian who garnered the jury prize for his appearance in the movie In Bed with Victoria, while the Palm Dogmanitarian award was presented to director Ken Loach for casting a three-legged dog named Shae in the Palme d'Or-winning flick I, Daniel Blake.

The following clip from the movie Paterson offers a peek at Nellie's acting skills:

Photo from Cinegardean/YouTbue.com

Sleepy Pit Bulls Want to Put a Smile on Your Face!

Here's an adorable collection of pit bulls sleeping, to brighten up your afternoon!
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LWD Presents: Willow, Our Adoptable Dog of the Day!

Remember, DON'T SHOP! ADOPT! There are plenty of excellent best friends in waiting at your local shelter for you to come and take them home!
Read more

Shelter Saturday: May 21

The Italian historian Francesco Guicciardini once wrote that “Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose the chance to make them.” If you are looking to make a new four-legged friend, take the opportunity to pay a visit to your local animal shelter.

Every year an estimated 3.9 million dogs enter into the U.S. shelter system. Following are a few of the adoptable dogs we have showcased this past week on Twitter. You can help in their search for their special human by sharing their photos on social media.

For a look at more adoptable companion animals, and to find out the latest news of stars who shine a spotlight on various paws causes, follow us on Twitter at @HollywoodDogs.

Alabama

Guss, a 5-yr-old Lab at a shelter in #Atmore, #AL, needs a home https://t.co/NFA9E92HTH URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 21, 2016

Arizona

Frasier, a 2-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a forever home https://t.co/glUoXKrFo7 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 20, 2016

California

Mary, a 7-yr-old Chihuahua at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/3Xeqf5I3MC URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 21, 2016

Lucky, a 5 1/2-yr-old Chihuahua at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/M3b78jxcaB URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 18, 2016

Tessa, a 9-yr-old Chihuahua at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/OAvX8qvQ98 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 17, 2016

Mickey, a 5-yr-old Pit Bull at a shelter in #Downey, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/jSM84IaPay URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 20, 2016

Pennsylvania

Emma (aka Schmoopie), a 1-2-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a #Philadelphia, #PA shelter, needs a home https://t.co/fITDAbpfDi URGENT

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 20, 2016

Texas

Sunny, a young Husky mix at a shelter in Texas City, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/k9s8XPYNS3 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 17, 2016

Tostito, a 5 – 6-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in #Lancaster, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/DdpwH7bb9o URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 21, 2016

Virginia

Gimme, a 1-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a shelter in Virginia Beach, #VA, needs a home https://t.co/i1Ruh5sIo7 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 21, 2016

Free Cookie Cutter with Every Order This Weekend!

We're excited that one of our treat recipes is featured in the new USA TODAY Pet Guide magazine–so we're celebrating with a special goodie this weekend!

With every PawZaar order through Sunday, we'll include one free surprise pet-themed cookie cutter ($4.99 value) in your order. If you order a cat-related product, you'll receive a free cat cookie cutter; if you order a dog-related product, you'll get a free dog cookie cutter. (Or just leave us a note with your order as to which you'd like!)

There's no need to add anything to your cart–we'll just automatically add a free cookie cutter to each order through Sunday night!

7 Tips for Hiring the Perfect Dog Sitter

As we quickly approach the summer travel season, today we have a a very timely guest post from Ashley Jacobs, the founder of Sitting for a Cause, a pet sitting website that donates 50% of their profits to animal-related causes. She is passionate about helping animals in need and resides in Newport Beach with her 8-year-old golden retriever, Diamond.

As a dog mom, leaving my pup when I travel is the worst part of taking trip and, like most dog parents, entrusting my fur baby's care to someone else is not something I take lightly. Over the years, I've learned that finding the perfect sitter can help alleviate the stress of leaving your pup behind when you hit the road. But how can you make sure to hire the right sitter for your pooch?

1. Determine Your Dog's Needs

Will your pup need overnight care? Daycare? Midday walks? One on one attention? Transportation to the groomer so they are clean when you return home? By knowing what your dog will need before you start your sitter search, you'll be able to narrow down prospective candidates faster because you can target sitters who offer the services your pooch needs in the price range you are willing to pay.

2. Start Looking ASAP

Starting your search as soon as you know you need a sitter gives you time to find someone who will best fit your dog's needs as opposed to someone who just happens to be available since you are less likely to encounter the roadblock of your top picks already being booked. Not sure where to start your search? Your family and friends may have recommendations or you can use websites like Sitting for a Cause to find the perfect sitter!

3. Learn About Your Potential Sitters

Contact potential sitters to check their availability, get quotes, find out how long they've been pet sitting, and ask about the type of dogs they are comfortable caring for to determine if they have the skillset to care for your dog. If your pup has special needs, health issues, or behavioral concerns, finding a sitter who simply has experience is not enough. Your sitter must have the experience and skills necessary to meet your dog's unique needs!

4. Check References

Even if the sitter you are considering was a recommendation from a family member or friend, it's always a good idea to get a few more references. Ask your potential sitter if they can provide references for you to contact or, if you found your sitter online, read reviews left by other clients.

5. Schedule Meet and Greets

When you find a sitter you like based on what you've learned about them and what their references said, schedule a meet and greet. Meet and greets are a chance for you meet the sitter and see how they get along with your dog. Be sure to schedule meet and greets with a few different sitters so you have some options to choose from. Take note of whether or not the sitter asks questions to get to know your pup as well as if they write down the information you give them since these are indications that they take your pup's care seriously. Also, make sure the sitter arrives on time for the meet and greet so you know they are punctual and dependable.

6. Choose Your Sitter

Once you've met with a few potential sitters, pick one! Consider who had the best interaction with your dog, who had experience that best matched your dog's needs, how their references compared, who you felt most comfortable trusting with your pup's care, and who you think would love and care for your dog as you would. Make your selection, give them a call, and set up a time for them to get a spare key.

7. Write it All Down

Even if your sitter took notes during your meet and greet, write out instructions for them to refer to in your absence. I always write down information including my dog's feeding schedule, medication she may be on, emergency contact information, her favorite walking routes, potty needs, house rules she follows, and commands she knows. It's also advisable to complete a veterinary release to specify the care your pooch should receive if your sitter is unable to get hold of you during an emergency situation.

As you head out the door, relax! You did your homework and your pup is in great hands. When you return, remember to contact your sitter to tell them you are home with your dog and if you are happy with the care they provided, let them know you'd love for them to watch your pup the next time you need a sitter!

Pumpkin Doggie Ice Cream Recipe

Although we haven't yet hit triple digits, the weather is quickly heating up here. Tiki's had her first (home) haircut of the summer and both dogs love swimming in the creek twice a day.

Right now autumn harvest seems far in the future but just yesterday I found a pumpkin plant blooming in the woods. It was a complete surprise because we hadn't planted it; late last fall, we smashed an old pumpkin in the woods for the deer to enjoy. We must have chosen a good spot because the plant seems to be thriving:

Maybe we'll have some pumpkins this fall!

You don't have to wait until pumpkin season to enjoy this easy recipe for Pumpkin Doggie Ice Cream, though! You can make your own pumpkin puree or purchase canned pumpkin (don't buy pie filling, though…it contains additional sugars and spices). I'm about to make Irie and Tiki a quick batch for a cool treat tomorrow afternoon!

Print

Pumpkin Doggie Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
  
• 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
  
• ½ cup organic peanut butter

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in blender then pour into ice cube trays.
   
2. Freeze and serve frozen.

3.1

http://www.dogtipper.com/recipes/2016/05/pumpkin-doggie-ice-cream-recipe.html

Don't Miss Our PawZaar Cooking Section!

We sell dog-themed cookie cutter sets and our dog cookbooks in the Home section of our PawZaar gift shop! Ten percent of proceeds benefit the week's featured pet rescue.

Win Innovet Pet Products Including Purbreath No Brush Oral Care!

This month we're testing Innovet Pet Products' Purbreath No Brush Oral Care, an all-natural option for teeth cleaning, great for dogs who don't want their teeth brushed as well as senior dogs who need dental care without going under anesthesia.

California-based Innovet Pet Products offers a wide range of natural products for your dog, from health care to flea control. Recently we reviewed the company's new STAT! Syringe, a product that's found a permanent place in our dog first aid kit, and the Purbreath No Brush Oral Care gel, one that we're testing this month on Irie's teeth!

Now a lucky member of the DogTipper community will win an Innovet prize pack ($70 value) with a selection of the company's dog products. The prize pack includes:

• Purbreath® No Brush Oral Care to removes plaque and tartar using all-natural ingredients
  
  


• STAT! Syringe  to induce vomiting in your dog, an important addition to your pet first aid kit


• Eco Friendly Biodegradable Poop Bags


• BioPel Spray to kill and prevent fleas, flies, ants and mosquitoes


• PurOtic Value Pack (includes a 4-ounce PurOtic Extra Strength for dogs and a 4-ounce PurOtic Ear Dryer for dogs)

Special Offer

Can't wait to see if you win? Save 20% on your Innovet purchases right now by using DOGTIPPER20 at checkout on www.innovetpet.com. All products include a 30-day money back guarantee from Innovet.

How to Enter

You'll enter in the widget below; as always, you may return to the widget any time during the giveaway period for more entries. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Innovet is a DogTipper sponsor. As always, we only share products that we use in our home with our pets. All statements and opinions are entirely our own.

Tracker Desperately Needs Your Help

Megan's stressed trying to figure out how to do this for Tracker. She's doing her best to keep her faith up, but it's waning quickly. She can't afford the knee surgery her precious pup.
Read more

Kristen Bell Hosts Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws

Television viewers and film fans know her for her roles in Veronica Mars, Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Frozen, but fans of our four-legged friends know actress Kristen Bell for her real life role as an animal advocate. Stepping in front of the camera with Lola, one of the former shelter dogs who takes center stage in her life, the star is acting as host of Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws.

The sixth episode in the popular pet-themed PBS documentary series, Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws will shine a spotlight on MUTTS cartoonist Patrick McDonnell as he visits one of the largest open admissions shelters in the United States– the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC)– in order to draw attention to the option of pet adoption. Also, an animated short offers a portrait of a dog who finds a special someone to love at a shelter.

Along with 'dogged devotion,' the episode will also be the cat's meow for people with a passion for our purring pals thanks to a segment on America's first purrmanent cat cafe. Since late 2014 Cat Town Cafe in Oakland, California has found forever homes for more than 300 adorable adoptables!

As the host of the sixth episode in the Shelter Me series, Kristen Bell is following in the footsteps of such animal-loving luminaries as Katherine Heigl, Jane Lynch, Allison Janney, Edie Falco and Jon Hamm. Viewers will soon be able to watch previous episodes online, and watch Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws when it premieres on PBS this spring. To find out when the episode is airing in your area, visit www.shelterme.tv.

The following video offers a sneak peek at Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws:

"Shelter Me: Hearts & Paws" – Episode 6 Trailer from Steven Latham on Vimeo.

Photo Credit: Shelter Me TV

Shelter Friday: May 13

The Tony Award nominated actress Jennifer Westfeldt once said that “Dogs just need you and love, that's all.” Each year an estimated 3.9 million dogs in animal shelters across the country look for that special someone to love. You can help to make their search successful simply by sharing photos of shelter animals on social media.

Following are a few of the homeless dogs we showcased this week on Twitter. For a look at more adorable adoptables and to read the latest news of celebrities who use their star wattage to shine a spotlight on a variety of paws causes, follow us at @HollywoodDogs.

Arizona

Leonard, a 2-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a home https://t.co/HsiGet1iFO URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 11, 2016

Eli, a 4-yr-old Pit Bull/Lab at a shelter in #Mesa, #AZ, needs a home https://t.co/N9OUuzI9ib URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 4, 2016

California

Dexter, a 3-yr-old Pit Bull at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/iCk20q88AI URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 6, 2016

A461432, a 6-yr-old Rat Terrier/Min Pin at a Moreno Valley, #CA shelter, needs a home https://t.co/Yj236B7fof URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 9, 2016

Ladybug, a 2-yr-old Chihuahua at a shelter in San Jacinto, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/p2hsRTdOUL URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 10, 2016

Georgia

Buster, a Hound mix at a shelter in #Savannah, #GA, needs a home https://t.co/mkNbcOTKpu URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 6, 2016

Pixie, a young Dachshund/Chihuahua at a shelter in #Savannah, #GA, needs a home https://t.co/131OZLpMa1 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 10, 2016

North Carolina

Carlisle, a Foxhound at a shelter in #Whiteville, #NC, needs a home https://t.co/ezQpKihrIe URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 3, 2016

Pennsylvania

Ferris Bueller, a 3-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Philadelphia, #PA, needs a home https://t.co/dugLfVOHCU URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 10, 2016

Nina, a 3-5-yr-old Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Philadelphia, #PA, needs a home https://t.co/0qqfJmF7RC URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 6, 2016

Texas

Rain, a 1-yr-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix at a shelter in #Killeen, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/rpcyMjXBmL URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 7, 2016

Crystal, a young Boxer mix at a shelter in #Odessa, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/bM5pUicDNF URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

- Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) May 13, 2016

Fido + Fluffy's #FreebieFriday Gets Ready for Summer

Whew…it's starting to feel a whole lot like summer here! This week we hit a heat index of 97 degrees so I know triple digit temperatures aren't far behind. Fortunately our spring rains have our creek running so Irie and Tiki are enjoying twice daily swims!

It's time for this week's Fido + Fluffy's Freebie Friday blog hop which we co-host with To Dog With Love and DogTipper! This weekly blog hop offers a rundown of the many pet-themed giveaways underway right now across the web.

And, if you're a blogger with a pet-related giveaway, be sure to link up! Please link directly to your giveaway, not to your home page. (PLEASE don't link to non-giveaway posts.) We post a new blog hop every Thursday afternoon at 4pm ET.

Disclaimer: Each giveaway has its own entry rules. CatTipper, To Dog With Love, and DogTipper assume no responsibility for the legality of the rules governing the listings on other sites and giveaways that are posted here. We simply provide this forum as a gathering place for pet product giveaways to be offered. Fulfillment of each giveaway is done by the blog conducting the giveaway, not by the hosts of this giveaway hop; please contact the giveaway host with any questions regarding a giveaway or giveaway prize.

Emmylou Harris' Rescue Helps Second Chance Dogs

The lyrics “We believe in new beginnings/ Giving in and forgiving/ We believe in happy endings/ You and I” are more than merely lines from a chart-topping duet co-sung by Emmylou Harris. Today the words also describe emotions expressed as both female offenders and adoptable dogs embark on a new beginning at the completion of a training program created through a partnership between the Davidson County Sheriff's Office and Bonaparte's Retreat Dog Rescue, a non-profit founded by the multi-Grammy Award winner.

Since the fall of 2015 the Second Chances Offender Dog Training Program has helped female inmates at the Davidson County Correction Center in Tennessee learn the patience, compassion and sense of responsibility needed in life as they teach social skills to dogs who need forever homes.

Over the course of a six-week period two female inmates provide TLC and train one adoptable dog.  Following the program all of the canine graduates will find families to love thanks to Bonaparte's Retreat.

Bonaparte's Retreat and the Davidson County Sheriff's Office celebrated the program's fourth graduation day on May 3, 2016. Since its start 18 dogs have been rescued and successfully trained, and all but one (a graduate from the most recent session) have already found pet parents.

During the first graduation ceremony in September 2015, music icon Emmylou Harris had this to say about the program:  “I believe that animals can transform lives.  Todays' graduation of the first class of Second Chances dogs and female offenders was proof of that.  They are the ones who did the hard work to train and socialize the dogs, and who, in the process, are transforming their own lives as well.”

For more information regarding Bonaparte's Retreat Dog Rescue (which saves dogs who are facing their fate in Nashville shelters) and the Second Chances Offender Dog Training Program:

• visit www.bonapartesretreat.org

The following video from WKRN News 2 offers a look back at Second Chance Offender Dog Training Program's first graduation ceremony:

Photo Credit: WKRN News 2

Who Won the Pet Qwerks Prize Pack?

I know that many of you have been waiting to see who the four winners of the Pet Qwerks prize baskets are! The lucky winners–who each receive a $50 prize pack of Flavorit chew toys and Babble Balls specially sized for their dog, are:

• Tracy Wirick


• Linda Szymoniak


• Marilyn Nawara


• Rhonda Standfast

I've emailed each of you for your prize choices but, if you don't receive my email, please email me your prize choices and mailing address.

You can learn more about these products featured on petqwerks.com and in the company's newly-opened online store, adogstoy.com!

This giveaway is sponsored by and fulfilled by Pet Qwerks.

#AmazingPetExpo, Charlotte, NC, May 14 – 15, 2016

Pet parents and their pups are invited to celebrate the happiness that dogs, cats and our other pals with paws and claws bring to our lives as the largest city in the state of North Carolina welcomes the largest pet expo producer in the nation for two days of Fido-centric fun!

Activities

• A display of dog dexterity, clever canines will work their way through tires, a teeter and weave poles during an agility demonstration.


• Cheer for our barking buddies as they show off their special abilities during the Pet Talent Contest.


• Dogs decked out in disguises will attempt to win prizes during the Pet Costume Contest.


• Take a sentimental journey with Spot as you stroll during a dog-themed edition of the classic children's game Musical Chairs.


• The pet expo is also a mega-pet adoption event where potential pet parents can meet adorable adoptables from the following rescue organizations and shelters: American Pit Bull Foundation, Charlotte- Mecklenburg Police Animal Care & Control, C.R.C. Collie Rescue of the Carolinas, God's Grace Canine Rescue, Hartman's Haven Dog Rescue, Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County, Paws & Claws Feline Rescue, Puppy Up Foundation, Recycled Pets, Rottweiler Hearts Rescue, Southeast German Shepherd Rescue, and more!


• Plus prize giveaways, a pet fashion show, discounted vaccinations heartworm and flea preventatives, free nail trims, author readings and signings, a look at the latest pet products and more!

Admission: Free

When: May 14 – 15, 2016 (from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday)

Where: Metrolina Tradeshow Expo at 7100 Statesville Road in Charlotte, North Carolina

For more information:

• visit www.charlottepetexpo.com

Photo Credit: Charlotte Pet Expo/ Facebook

Dog Smiles Really Big for a Selfie

Say BACON!!!!!
Read more

Win a Stick and Handheld Vacuum!

This week we've been busy, busy moving furniture to make way for our new pet kitchen. Every time–and I mean EVERY time–we move furniture in this house, I'm shocked by the dust…and pet fur…that has made its way behind and beneath the furniture. Regardless of how clean the floor in front of the furniture was, behind the furniture were the tumbleweeds of a pet home.

We've been reaching for every vacuum in our house as we've moved furniture this week–so I wanted to self-host a giveaway this week for a Eureka AirSpeed 2-in-1 Stick and Handheld Vacuum. This vacuum features:

• AirSpeed Technology


• 2-in-1 stick and handheld


• Washable filter


• Low profile nozzle


• On-board crevice tool

One reader will win a vacuum of their own!

How to Enter

As always, you'll enter in the widget below; you may return to the widget any time during the giveaway period for more entries. Good luck!

Entry-Form

This giveaway is hosted by DogTipper and CatTipper; we will ship the prize via our Amazon account.

Life is Short. Buy the Boots.

If grief were a color, it would be slate. Not an angry obsidian black, or a peaceful dove grey, but that shapeshifting silver somewhere between black and white, a stormy sea that some days seems blue, others almost brackish, depthless and impossible to truly describe.

If it were a shape, it would be a spiral, a shape you ride on in a neverending loop of centrifugal force splattering you against the wall whether you will it or not, bringing you back again and again to the same spot, from a slightly different vantage point.

 

I imagine that grief counselors are well versed in this, which is why every bad day seems to be preceded by a call from the chaplain, who senses it like a dog knows an earthquake is coming. The last one had come just before Christmas.

“It's Chaplain Gary. How are you?”

“Fine.” And I am fine, until I remember that I'm supposed to be upset, and then I am.

The most recent call came on the one year anniversary, if you can call it that, of the date my mother became ill. The season has returned to set the backdrop for the nightmare month of May: lengthening days, long afternoons, and the scent of blooming jasmine wafting over the chairs in the backyard that I've rarely gone to sit in since the night my mother died. When I sat blankly until 2 am, staring at a candle and wishing for her parents to come and spirit her away from this earth as her breath rattled slowly away.

We went to the beach for Mother's Day last year, spending a night in an oceanfront bungalow that would normally be way too indulgent for an innocuous holiday, but I had a rare and terrible gift: knowing that this was my last one.

I had only this one day into which I must pour every future Mother's Day of which we were being robbed. And because I had to continually remind myself to be there in that moment, instead of thinking ahead to the years her chair would be empty, I could notice things I would probably not normally observe in my hypervigilant state: my mother's hair, so different from mine, her dainty nose which I did not inherit, the way her hands would gently enfold the kids whenever they came into her line of vision. She was beautiful inside and out.

And Here We Are

One year later, I've come full circle to that spot I knew I must return to, and dread. It's been there all along, these memories, receding into the shadows of the changing season and coming out again this spring to say hello. I see my friends post stories and pictures with their mothers, having recently entered into that comfortable spot in life where they can be totally honest and laugh about anything, and I feel an almost painful sense of longing remembering the small moments with my own mother I had come to treasure.

We met for lunch often, once the kids were older and in school. Our lunches were something my husband would always dread, because they were always followed by wandering into a store where she never, ever, ever talked me out of impractical things. Because of her, I own a snazzy chain link belt and a pair of Frye boots that I would never have bought on my own. It's a silly thing, boots, but I love them. They suit me, as she said they would. They are happy boots. They are sad boots.

I know, because people have been tremendously generous with sharing their own stories, that this longing for more time will never go away. You never entirely forgive the universe for taking a treasure from you, even when you know anger is useless. It sucks and it will always suck, even when I'm an ancient crone cruising around on a walker.

Love Remains

But I cannot be anything but grateful that I had a mother whose love was so encompassing that to lose her has left me devastated. How many of us worry that if we were gone, no one would care? She never did.

Every year was a gift and a marvel. While her physical form is gone, Mom surrounds me in a thousand little ways, from the whistle of a teakettle to the smell of a cookie, the joy in a beautiful sunset, the strength to do what needs to be done. She's here. In some form or another, love remains.

To those celebrating Mother's Day this weekend, my love goes to you. Take a deep breath and really experience it, be you the recipient or the giver. And if you are hurting and dreading the day, don't be afraid to run away from the brunches and the flower shops, the rituals and the intact families, the resentment and the sorrow. Find a place that brings you peace. Buy some sad boots. Go to the beach. Sit in a forest. Sadness means you loved deeply, and that has its own kind of beauty.

And wherever you go, don't forget to take your dog.