Nora the famous Piano Cat is scheduled to perform her first concert tomorrow -- and you can watch the purrformance on live streaming video. How cool is that?

Nora, the Philadelphia cat known for her musicality, who was named ASPCA's Cat of the Year this year, will play Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Westchester Cat Show in White Plains, New York. The gray kitty's first concert is a benefit, being called "Shelter Aid." Millions have already seen her taped performances on YouTube.

Nora will perform live via webcam from her piano at home in Philadelphia. She’ll be joined by her accompanist and owner Betsy Alexander.

Everyone will be holding their breath because Nora is a cat -- and being a cat, she just might not performa on command.

Continue reading "Piano kitty to perform 1st concert on Saturday" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Events, Fun stuff
        

It's now possible, thanks to the wonders of technology (and people's obsession with kitties) to edit an image on your iPhone, dropping in pictures of cats and kittens.

And not just ordinary cats and kittens -- these are kitties that mew. Genius? Crazy? Whatever.

The CatPaint application works like this, according to the designer. You pull out your litter box to select a kitty. Drop the image where you want it. You can shake the iPhone if the kitty didn't land in the right spot. The cats come in all varieties and sizes -- and they're captured in everything from lap pose to leap.

Here the cat people at MacWorld test the app. The editors include a photo gallery of how they've kittied up pictures of various folks in the office. They've put cats on people's laps and into their hands. Stacked them by the dozens behind them. Created kitty vortexes right next to them.....Tons and tons and tons of kitties. Pretty funny.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

There are seriously, seriously, seriously sooooo many dog books out there, I'm starting to lose track. At least a couple times a week a new one or two arrives in the mail.

There are heartwarming memoirs of man and beast, manuals for keeping the hound healthy, those that explore ways to understand the canine.

It seems that ever since Marley & Me skyrocketed to the top of the bestseller list, leaving sequels, a movie and who-knows-how-much-money and wet tissues in its wake, dog lovers have gotten really busy typing.

Continue reading "Drowning in dog books: Which titles rise to the top?" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (29)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

No matter which side of town you live on, which worthwhile cause you'd like to contribute to, on Saturday, it will be almost hard not to get your pet's picture taken with Santa.

Santa, who apparently gets around, will be at Federal Hill Park, posing with dogs, cats and who knows what other animals to benefit the Franky Fund at BARCS. The fund pays for vet care for the sickest and neediest animals that come to the shelter. Pictures cost $10 and Santa will be waiting at the park from 10 to noon. Santa will also be at Riverside Park on Dec. 12 for pet pictures, also 10 a.m. to noon. 

Meanwhile, across town in Canton, at the Canton Dog Park, during the exact same 10 to noon timeframe, Santa will also be posing with pets. Those pictures cost $15.

If you already have pictures of your dog or kitty with Santa and would like to share them, send 'em on in. I'll post only the cute ones. ;-)

Santa and dogs picture courtesy of Pacdog's Photostream on Flickr.

Continue reading "Saturday's the day to get pet pix with Santa" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

Members of the SOB Motorcycle Club have stripped off their leather -- and everything else -- to help Pet Rescue of Maryland.

Ken Shapiro, who winkingly calls himself king of the club, sent me a preview of their 2010 Semites On Bikes calendar, which is now for sale. He's Mr. December, the guy posing not-so-shyly above with a guinea pig.

Shapiro says last year's nude calendar sold more than 800 copies before eventually selling out.

Continue reading "A little nudism in the name of animal welfare..." »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Fun stuff
        

One thing is for sure: Baltimore loves Rescue Ink.

Something about the tattooed gang of animal rights crusaders has hit home with pet lovers in this city. First the barrage of tattoo pledges to convince the Long Island-based group to come to town. Then the actual tattoofest last month when they made it here, to this: Locals throwing a fundraising bash in their honor.

The benefit will be Saturday, Nov. 21 at Midtown Yacht Club. Things kick off at 9 p.m. There probably won't be any appearances by the guys, nor any tattooing being done on site -- it's just having a good time to support a good cause. And, hey, maybe a chance to show off some of those new paw print tattoos.

There will be drink specials and raffles. Admission is $10.

Continue reading "Another local fundraiser for Rescue Ink" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Celebrities and their pets, Events, Fun stuff
        

The Maryland Park Service is considering changing its policies to make it easier for people to bring their pets to state parks.

A lot of people have apparently requested the change and now state officials are asking for even more public comment before they make a final decision. Changes include pets being allowed at Assateague at certain times and pets allowed in more parts of Gunpowder Falls. There's a lot more, too. To view the proposed policy, click here.

To make your voice heard, go to this website for more information. Public comment will be accepted until Nov. 30.

Continue reading "Want more pet access at state parks? Weigh in!" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Drumroll, please! After six submissions of absolutely beautiful orange kitties, we've named one the winner in the Dewey look-alike contest.

Kim, my editor, deliberated carefully over the contestants, considering both resemblence to Dewey, the cat made famous in the book, Dewey: The Small-town Library Cat Who Touched the World, and how each kitty's personality paralleled The Dew's.

The winner of the new Dewey children's book is: Sydney!! Marge's 11-year-old kitty not only looked like Dewey, but his story similarly tugged on a cat-lover's heart-strings. Someone cut off the tips of Syd's ears and a portion of her tail. Congrats to Marge and Syd.

However, because such an overwhelming flurry of support came in for Oscar, the fluffy one who passed away two years ago, his owner is getting a copy of Cats' A.B.C. -- which happens to be about three cats, one of which is named Oscar! Plus, the little guy is pictured sitting on a folded up copy of The Sun -- how could we resist that. Congrats Teri!

Now we wait for the Dewey movie starring Meryl Streep!!....

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

Legions of cat lovers have fallen for Dewey, the famous Iowa library cat immortalized last year in Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World.

I noted on Unleashed a few months ago that the author who wrote about Dewey got more big contracts to write about him again -- at least one for a children's book. The kiddie book is out and I'm offering a copy to whoever has the kitty who most resembles the adorable, orange, furball that was the Dew.

Personally, I think with Pumpkin I'm a contender myself, but I'm not technically competing. (Seriously -- you have to click on the link. My little P is a Dewey RINGER!!)

Anyway, send me your pictures and whoever has the kitty with the closest resemblence gets the new Dewey book for kids: Dewey: There's a Cat in the Library!

Continue reading "Win a book if your kitty's a Dewey look-alike" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (32)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

Love this picture. What a sign of the times.....A woman wearing a mask passes by a monument of Diana, goddess of the hunt and her dogs, which, of course, are also wearing protective masks. She's in the the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on November 3. Last week the Ukrainian health ministry raised the death toll from the flu and respiratory problems to 67. The sign reads "Life is more expensive than pride and image. Keep youself!" YURIY DYACHYSHYN/AFP/Getty Images.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Fun stuff
        

Recently I wrote here about a website called FreeKibble that donates food to animal shelters every time someone visits the site and plays a game. It's the creation of a 13-year-old girl named Mimi and she tells me that as of this week, through the site she's donated more than 1.7 million meals to homeless dogs and cats.

Today, however, Nov. 5, FreeKibble will donate five times the amount of food each for every site visit. Halo Pets is sponsoring the event. There's no limit on the kibble, so if a bazillion people visit the site today, that's how much food will go to shelters aross the country.

So everyone should visit the site today AND tell all their friends to do it. It's a fun and easy way to help some animals.

Click here to get to FreeKibble and help!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Yeah, I know Hello Kitty isn't exactly a cat, per se. But as a tyke, I was incredibly smitten by this big-headed white kitten -- and her best friend, Mimi. I didn't have any real pets, but I collected Hello Kitty change purses, stickers and little notebooks.

Hello Kitty all but vanished as I grew out of cartoon kitty stuff, but recently it all came back with a vengeance. Disturbingly, the iconic Kitty has been embraced by the likes of Paris Hilton, Target and, as the above picture shows, Swarovski crystal.

Sorry, Kitty. It didn't use to be like that.

Anyway, the Los Angeles Times take a look back at the history of Hello Kitty and her modern resurgence.

In the story I read that the Kitty, now 35, has a boyfriend. A boy kitten named Daniel. Wow. 

A "Super Hello Kitty Jewel Doll", studded with diamonds, sapphires and a citrine for its yellow nose, is displayed at the "Girlish Culture Hello Kitty" exhibition in Tokyo. Luxury cyrstal maker Swarovski, Japanese toy firm Sanrio and Japanese jewelery maker I.K. unveiled the 15 million yen ($150,000) Hello Kitty to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Hello Kitty character. YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

Four-legged screen stars are vying for the Fido Film Awards, billed as the canine equivalent of the Oscars.

Nominees announced Friday include the animated dog stars of "Bolt" and "Up," the titular mutt in "Marley and Me" and — in a rare non-canine choice — the dapper, George Clooney-voiced "Fantastic Mr. Fox," the Associated Press reported.

They are competing for prizes in categories including historical hound, rom-com rover and comedy canine.

The Fidos call themselves the world's first international awards for canine screen stars. Winners will be announced Nov. 22.

Continue reading "Competing for a 'doggie Oscar'" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

It's hard to say enough about the Baltimore fabulousness that is this costume. Brilliant really. Somehow Tito the Chihuahua didn't win Best Hon costume in BARCStoberfest last weekend in this. I don't know why. A Big Boyz Bail Bonds giveaway pen.... Sigh.... I think the genius might have been too much, ahead of its time.....

Big huge round of Unleashed applause to Healy and Alexey for putting it together.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Never was a big fan of "America's Funniest Home Videos." Though I am a big fan of bulldogs with cheese doodles balanced on their noses. The show always seemed too corny, too silly...too something. But apparently they've got a lot of animal videos, particularly dogs, like the cheese curl guy in the picture. Maybe I'll have to give it a small look from time to time.

Dogs are a clear winner as the funniest animal — especially wiener dogs, Chihuahuas and pugs — judging by payouts from the series, which begins its 20th year on ABC next month, says The Associated Press.

For example, there was the bug-eyed Chihuahua getting a bath in a sink. "It was the homeliest dog, big bulging eyes that looked in opposite directions, his tongue was hanging out, and he was soaking wet, the sweetest thing," said co-executive producer and writer Todd Thicke.

In the show's first 19 years, 260 animal videos have won $2.2 million for their videographers. More than half those winners (136) have been dogs for $1.4 million in prize money. There have been 34 cat champs making $210,000 and 22 birds sharing $115,000. Next comes the nutty part: Nine squirrels have shared $54,000.

Continue reading "Dogs tops on 'America's Funniest Home Videos'" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

While appearing on Jay Leno's new show, First Lady Michelle Obama, looking really pretty in a "Mad Men"-style dress, talked a little about First Dog Bo. Jay asked her 10 questions including one, of course, about the pup: How did you celebrate the dog's birthday? ...A cake made of "veal stuff"? That bro Cappy stole most of? Awesomeness.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, First Dog Bo Obama, Fun stuff
        

Fidos for Freedom, a non-profit that trains and provides service dogs and hearing dogs to those who can't do everything for themselves, is having a fund-raising walk on Saturday.

The group, which also has a therapy dog program and a D.E.A.R.  (Dogs Educating and Assisting Readers) program, is having its annual Fall Stroll 'n Roll on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Centennial Lake in Ellicott City. Since it's Halloween, costumed dogs are welcome.

Fidos is asking for a minimum donation of $20/person and encourage groups to form teams. There will be raffles, vendors and a flyball demonstration.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

We've got a lot of diversity and flexibility here at Unleashed's Cute Costume Countdown to Halloween. One day we've got sushi, another day we've got witches and today....we've got literature.

Lin, who sent this all the way from California, shows off her pup, Miss Pup, dressed as Lady Catherine de Bourgh from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."

Something tells me Lin never runs into another Lady Catherine de Bourgh at the dog park Halloween parade...

She writes, "When Miss Pup was an ingenue, she was the Blue Fairy from Pinocchio."

Continue reading "Cute Costume Coundown: Lady Catherine de Bourgh!" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

For the first time, dogs will be part of the infamous Fells Point Halloween celebration.

The folks at Koopers Tavern, a place that loves dogs so much, it's even named after a yellow lab, are inviting people to dress up their pups and bring them over for the Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest.

The contest runs from 11 to noon on Saturday, right outside the tavern on Thames Street. There is a $5 entrance fee that benefits Mid Atlantic Bully Buddies. Prizes have been donated by Howl in Hampden. 

Photo of this pig-tailed terrier courtesy of Don Hankin's photostream on Flickr.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

People really love to dress up Pugs. Here is Gordon, a little cutie whose owners, Patrick and Alison, keeps him looking stylish...or something.... for any number of holidays. Gordon couldn't be more Maryland than this, dressed as a crabcake. He's even licking his chops! (It looks to me, however, that there's a lot of filler in there.)

Patrick tells us this year little G, who's 5, will be dressed as an elf!

Only a couple days left to make your dog's Halloween...Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your dressed-up fur thing to jill.rosen@baltsun.com. 

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

I know that Garden Variety guru Susan reported that pumpkins are in short supply this year. However, I'm seeing them everywhere and thought this was a really cute idea for anyone planning a Halloween party this weekend.

Better Homes & Gardens online has a big selection of dog breed pumpkin carving stencils. You can just download them. There's everything from Poodle to Golden Retriever to Bulldog and Jack Russell. 

There's even some tips on how to design your own.

Isn't Halloween the best?

Photos courtesy of BH&G.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

This is Lexie, who belongs to Bekye Eckert and participated in the Westminster Petsmart's Halloween parade and contest last week. She was dressed as herself, a breast cancer survivor. 

The 10-year-old Maltese rescue had two surgeries for metastatic mammary cancer; in February her prognosis was six months. 

"Of course we're thrilled she's still with us and doing well, and we are grateful for the opportunity to spread the word about cancer in pets because it's surprising how many folks who don't know that pets suffer from many of the same diseases humans do ... diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and unfortunately, cancer," Eckert says.
 

Lexie was diagnosed with malignant metastatic adenocarcinoma in February after her first surgery and had a second surgery in June. 

A little more on this sweet pup here.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Two area shelters are offering great deals on orange and black cats this week to celebrate Halloween.

At the Maryland SPCA, all adult orange and black kitties are free ALL week!

And then, at Baltimore Humane Society, all cats with any orange and black markings are half off!

Not bad. I looked and there are a TON of eligible kitties at both shelters....

Don't forget, at BARCS, all dogs are just $13 to adopt through Halloween.

Trick or treat!

Picture of a lovely orange kitty, who would be FREE at the SPCA, courtesy of Meormeor's photostream on Flickr.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Events, Fun stuff
        

Bicoastalchickie has shared with us this picture of Baby, her 5-year-old Maltese in this bewitching little outfit. She says she found the witch hat at PetSmart a few years ago, and got the cape at Target last year.

This year Baby will be less-formally celebrating Halloween, wearing a little pumpkin-y Halloween tee Bicoastalchickie's mom bought for her at Old Navy.

Only a week left! Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your dressed-up fur to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Unleashed reader Jaime sent in this awesome picture of her meeting up with Rescue Ink. She ran into the guys Saturday night at their Baltimore hotel. Just so happens, Jaime got the paw tattoo earlier Saturday at Baltimore Tattoo Museum to benefit the Rescue Ink nonprofit and Baltimore Humane Society. She shows off her new wrist bling, too.

The guys are supposed to visit Golden Ring Middle School Monday morning, stop at the Maryland SPCA and then head back to Long Island.

Anyone else got the paw tats? Send in some pictures. We all want to see what they look like. (Saw Baltimoregal's at BARCStoberfest this afternoon...it looked great!)

At left is Shannon's tat, the paw print of her dog, Lucy. Shannon, btw, was the first of anyone to suggest getting a paw tattoo to get Rescue Ink here.

Continue reading "Rescue Ink in B-more: Looks like this!" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 4:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Celebrities and their pets, Fun stuff
        

Here's Leo, a rough, tough bulldog dressed as a roc kstar for the Fifth Annual Times Square Dog Day Masquerade on October 18. Leo definitely has the rocker snarl....TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images.

Share a picture of your own little rock star! Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your dressed-up fur to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Cookie the Chow Chow dressed as the "Times Square Alliance Clean Up Crew " during the Fifth Annual Times Square Dog Day Masquerade October 18. The canine costume contest is presented by the Times Square Alliance. This is pretty good. Could imitate this in Baltimore and say it's part of the Downtown Partnership cleanup crew. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images.

Did you catch the Miracle on the Hudson costume earlier this week. Check it out. It's most excellent.

Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your best (or worst) effort at costuming your pet to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Here is Beaglemom's little Scout dressed as a she-devil. Scout just turned three last weekend. Happy Birthday puppy!

Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your best (or worst) effort at costuming your pet to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Phoebe Josephine Pickles, a Baltimore Pomeranian, is dressed at Wonderwoman. The 7-year-old who belongs to Pat Machate, is a therapy dog with more than 300 outfits.   

Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your best (or worst) effort at costuming your pet to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

This has got to be one of the more clever Halloween pet costumes. It's at least as good as the sushi from last week. LOVE it! Remember the airplane that Sully landed on the Hudson?

Beatrice the Minnie Golden Doodle dressed as a "Miracle on the Hudson" with Herb Westphalen and Kate Schulte dressed as flight crew members during the Fifth Annual Times Square Dog Day Masquerade October 18. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images.

Participate in Unleashed's Costume Countdown by sending a JPEG of your best (or worst) effort at costuming your pet to jill.rosen@baltsun.com.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

So some locals have joined the Unleashed Costume Countdown 2009. Here we've got Johnny Cash, otherwise known as Frothy Brown Porter. That's his name 'cause, as his mom Angela Treadwell-Palmer says: "He looks like the foam of a porter."

Frothy is a rescued German Shorthaired Pointer. He can run 29 laps around Treadwell-Palmer's 1/2 acre lot without stopping. He can also run around our 4-foot diameter tree -- 12 times one way and then 12 times the opposite way -- in 1 minute without stopping. He sleeps head first - under the covers. 

Every year his doggie daycare (Good Doggie Daycare on Ash St.)  has a costume party and this year he went dressed as Johnny Cash because Ms. Barbara, the morning manager greets him each time we drop him off with "Hey Porter" by Johnny Cash.  She calls him her Johnny Cash Porter. 

Continue reading "Cute Costume Countdown: Johnny Cash!" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

This Saturday from 10 a.m to 7 p.m, the Baltimore Tattoo Museum (1534 Eastern Avenue) will sponsor a Tattoo-a-thon to accommodate all those who pledged to go under the needle to bring Rescue Ink to town.

Proceeds from the Tattoo-a-thon will benefit both Baltimore Humane Society and Rescue Ink, helping both groups to continue their important work in animal welfare. Tattoos will be given on a first come, first served basis. There will be two designs to choose from (shown here -- dogs to the left, cat to the right) and the prices will be $100 each. Rescue Ink will not be present at this event. The size of the tattoos will each be about the size of a silver dollar.

Continue reading "Rescue Ink/Tattoofest: Here's what's up" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (19)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Celebrities and their pets, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

The Unleashed Cute Costume Countdown to Halloween resumes this week with another great one: a takeoff on New York City's Naked Cowboy. Not bad!

Georgie the Pekingese dressed as a "The Naked Cowboy" during the Fifth Annual Times Square Dog Day Masquerade October 18. The canine costume contest is presented by the Times Square Alliance . TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images.

Did everyone catch the geishas the other day?

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

B-More Dog is having a fundraiser happy hour and silent auction tonight at Bad Decisions in Fells Point.

It's a nice opportunity to get out and help the group that does so much to help pit bulls. Or, heck, just celebrate the fact that it's finally stopped raining. It starts at 6 p.m.

On Oct. 25 the group will also be marking "Pit Bull Awareness Day" at the Baltimore Humane Society -- at the same event alongside Rescue Ink. There will be a control class from noon to 1 p.m., pit bull-centric demonstrations, weight pull demos, a narcotics-dog demonstration from Mutt Magic, an agility dog demo, and more. All The event will take place from noon to 4.

Continue reading "B-More Dog Happy Hour/Auction tonight" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

Saturday is the day to celebrate your pet and hope Baltimore's animal shelter raise some much-needed money.

BARCStoberfest, the shelter's annual shindig, will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Patterson Park -- at the southeast corner, Linwood and Eastern Avenue.

There will be plenty of dogs, many, like Teddy Bean, dressed up, because there's a costume contest. You can see fundraising pups like The Bean walk the walk in Strut Your Mutt. Then there's a vendors, a silent auction, a chance to question an animal behavior expert, crafts, childrens' activities and micro-chipping.

BARCS needs support.

"We have seen a 10 percent increase in the number of animals surrendered to our shelter; many that were sick, injured, or even abused," Jennifer Mead-Brause, Executive Director of BARCS, said in a statement. "We are in need of support from the community more now than ever so we hope to see you at BARCStober Fest."

Money raised at the fest will help BARCS buy food, spay and neuter animals, and provide medical care and vaccinations.

There's a possibility of a rain date -- which would be Sunday, but with the forcast for both days less-than-perfect, BARCS officials said Thursday they expected to hold the event Saturday unless there was thunder and lightening. 

For more information, visit the shelter's website or call (410) 396-4695.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

I am a huge, huge, huge fan of Simon Tofield.

You might not know who he is, but you might know about his adorable and funny videos that have been such a hit on YouTube. They're not just cute. If you have a kitty, you'll realize what a genius Tofield is at depicting the character and mannerisms of a spunky cat.

Well, Tofield has published his first book called "Simon's Cat in his Very Own Book." Just released September 24, it's really sweet and would make the perfect stocking stuffer sort of thing for any kitty lovers on your holiday list.

If you're going to go do a You Tube search, might I suggest you start with this one, my personal favorite. You'll soon see why it's gotten more than 10 million hits. Simply brilliant.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Celebrities and their pets, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

This speaks for itself.... One is either a Peeps person or not, aren't they? There was a woman in the office (hi Patricia if you're reading) who was head over heels for the speciality Halloween Peep from a few years ago -- the "cocoa bat" she would call them. Well, Patricia and other seasonal Peep fans, this one's for you:

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Fun stuff
        

If you're not running in the Baltimore Marathon on Saturday, and you're an animal lover, you really have just one place to be: Dogfest.

It just sounds like such a cool event -- and a big one that raises money for the Baltimore Humane Society.

First off, despite it's name, it's not just about dogs. Sure, there will be TONS of stuff for dogs, but there will also be cats to see and even horses. For the dogs, there will be contests (like for the Best Kisser! and the Best Costume judged by First Lady Katie O'Malley --who I hear is bringing one of the O'Malley family dogs, Rex.), swimming pools and games. For the pet lovers, there will be plenty of vendors, exhibits and demonstrations.

The gates at Shawan Downs in Hunt Valley open at 10 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. Dogs are welcome, but not on retractable leashes.

Teddy Bean will be there!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

I said I wasn't going to do it, that I wasn't the type of pet parent that would put their dog in a costume.

And yet, we're approaching Halloween and Teddy Bean has, I'll admit it, a selection of things to wear.

Hee.

If he'll permit himself to be outfitted, he's going to look ADORABLE. But if he doesn't want to be costumed, I'm not going to force him.

I just decided it's the spirit of the season -- where's the harm in a little festive costume? Especially, if, hint, hint with the picture to the right, its would be ridiculously perfect for him? Heh.

Does anyone have strong feelings about pets in costume? I'm pretty sure my deskmate to the right, keeper of the B'More Green blog, would dress her Dizzy up over her dead body.

If you are pro-costume, want to share some of your all-time greatest Halloween hits? Or perhaps what your furry one will be dressing as this year, if, of course, the little dear will keep it on?

(You can also upload a photo to our pets in costume reader photo gallery.)

Continue reading "Someone furry has a Halloween costume...or two..." »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Teddy Bean, formerly the Foster Dog
        

Boomer may be a buster: Measuring 3 feet tall at the shoulders and 7 feet long from nose to destructive wagging tail, his owner thinks she may have the world's tallest living dog.

Caryn Weber says her 3-year-old Landseer Newfoundland keeps all four paws on the floor when he drinks from the kitchen faucet in her family's farm house in eastern North Dakota, the Associated Press reports.

Boomer can stare into a car window eye to eye with a driver. A 20-pound bag of dry dog food lasts a couple of weeks.

Weber says the fluffy black and white dog "comes into the house and his tail is so high everything gets knocked around."

Continue reading "Boomer might be World's Tallest Dog" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Apparently very, very, verrry small piggies are the latest must-have pet in the U.K. The tiny teacup pigs, or "micro-pigs," as they're called, grow to about knee-height and cost, well, quite a bit -- about $1,100 in U.S. dollars.

However, they're supposed to be clean, intelligent and very loveable. They're clearly cute as can be. Oh, and Rupert Grint, of "Harry Potter" movie fame, has reportedly bought two!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

Animal advocates are banning together, hoping to whisper a little message into President Obama's ear: Bo Needs a Friend.

That's actually now an official campaign to get the First Puppy a playmate, with its very own website.

Organizers, which include representatives from Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Los Angeles, Best Friends and the Companion Animal Protection Society, are trying to organize a letter writing and email campaign so that the First Family will adopt a shelter dog to keep Bo company. Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog, came from a breeder, a gift from Sen. Edward Kennedy.

There's an unmistakeable undercurrent of anger in the group's mission -- they're upset that the Obama family missed an opportunity to send a message about the pet overpopulation in the country and the importance of adopting.

For whatever reason, I'm sure Bo would enjoy some dog play on the White House lawn.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, First Dog Bo Obama, Fun stuff
        

You'll have to trust me on this one. Clever and more fun than it should be. Try: Roll over...

Click here for the most obedient dog ever!

And Happy Tuesday!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

If you love Crocs -- or perhaps even if you despise them -- this just might be on your holiday wish list.

The Sasquatch Pet Bed company (Bigfoot, get it??) is offering the world a bed for dogs or cats shaped like a giant shoe, specifically like what has to be the least attractive plastic shoe ever created.

The dog and cat version of the Croc comes in blue and pink and camo -- just like the real things. The little Schnauzer above even looks authentically dismayed to be photographed in one -- except that, of course, just like the real Crocs, the beds look undeniably comfortable.

They're $99.95 each. Please Santa!

Photos courtesy of Sasquatch Pet Beds.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

The U.K. always thinks of all the good stuff first.

The country's animal advocate, PDSA, has come up with the Pet Fit Club, a kind of "Biggest Loser" contest to whip oversize dogs and cats into shape while drawing national attention to the dangers of animal obesity.

Socrates, the long-haired kitty pictured, weighed 22 pounds at the beginning of the contest, thanks largely to a diet heavy on cheese and onion crisps. His target is to be less than half the kitty he started as -- or about 9 pounds. He's five years old and belongs to Bill Duncan.

Socs has 100 days to reach his target goal. He's on prescription diet food, and, according to Duncan, doesn't much care for the portions. Go Socs!

Check out Socrates progress in this story.

Cheer on the other contestants here. 

(Photo courtesy People's Dispensary for Sick Animals).

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Health
        

Ok. So yesterday afteroon two of the guys from Rescue Ink called me -- their publicist had told them about the amazing tattoo pledges underway in Baltimore.

I had a conference call with Johnny O, the one in the hat, at left, and Eric. They only go by first names.

Anyway, they were floored with the tattoo pledges. And they really would like to come back to the city -- they were here quickly a number of months ago after Phoenix, the pit bull, was burned and died. As a non-profit, they've got to figure out a way to pay for a trip, but it sounds like something that they're at least now thinking about. Read my whole story here.

"We never say no, especially when it comes to animals," said Johnny O. "We have an idea of what Baltimore is about."

In the meantime, Eric said stopping animal abuse is all about working together. Not being vigilates, but being aware and together as a city. That attitude, he says, will have potential abusers on guard.

If I'm an abuser and I’m worried that everyone is watching me, it’s going tomake me think twice," Eric said. "That’s kind of what we do to people. They say, 'I better not screw around cause I never know who’s going to call on me.' No one take crap....."

By the way, we're now up to 64 people pledging to get paw print tattoes if Rescue Ink comes to town!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (22)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

For those of you caught up in the organically growing movement of sorts to tempt the guys of Rescue Ink to come to Baltimore to kick some animal-abuse butt, you'll want to know that two of the people who pledged to get a tattoo if they guys come here have created a Facebook page for the effort.

See it here. It's the work of Emily and Jacob.

I just got off the phone with two of the guys from Rescue Ink -- Eric and Johnny O. More coming on that later.....Meanwhile NEARLY 60 Unleashed diehards and animal lovers have promised to get paw print tattoos if the guys can make it to town. Wow. You are all pretty impressive!

(Of course if anyone's headed to Facebook, don't forget to become a fan of the Unleashed page, if you haven't already!)

Posted by Jill Rosen at 3:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Celebrities and their pets, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Pets on Wheels, a not for profit volunteer group that coordinates volunteers to bring animals to institutions for visits is having it's annual Dog-a-Thon. For instance, this Saturday while the event is happening, some dogs from the group will be at the Pratt central library on Cathedral Street in Baltimore at 2 p.m., for a literacy program where they'll be read to by children. Very cute.

To walk at the Dog-a-Thon, just register your dog online, maybe get some folks to sponsor you and help the group raise money. Whoever raises the most money will win a portrait of their pet by Carl Woerner of Pencil Works Studio.

In addition to the walk around the Cockeysville park, there will be various demos, contests and vendors. There will be items up for raffle, a silent auction, food and a disc jockey. Events run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Continue reading "Dog-a-thon this weekend at Oregon Ridge" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Health
        

Here's a clever idea that would be cool to try in Baltimore:

A group of upstate New York dog owners thinks it has a plan to profitably compost dog doo left behind by the roughly 50,000 canines that use the city's dog park each year, the Associated Press reports.

If their pilot project is successful, the Tompkins County Dog Owners Group and Cayuga Compost hope to market usable compost within two or three years.

Finding a use for the billions of pounds of pooch poop produced yearly in the United States could greatly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, said Leon Kochian, a spokesman for TC DOG, the not-for-profit volunteer group involved in funding the project.

"There was a large Dumpster at the park, and it was just always overflowing with plastic bags of dog poop. The amount was unbelievable," said Kochian, a Cornell University biology professor who owns a yellow Labrador retriever.

"Ithaca has a reputation as a green community. ... It made sense to us to find a way to compost and spare the landfill from all the plastic bags," Kochian said.

Leon Kochian, a Cornell University biology professor, is seen with his Labrador, Sophie, right, at the Treman Marina Dog Park in Ithaca, N.Y. Kochian helped organize a dog waste composting effort that could help reduce dog excrement in landfills and provide a usable fertilizer. (AP Photo/Heather Ainsworth)

Continue reading "Dog owners reconsider value of poop" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

All pet owners should glance through this new website -- it could save your dog or cat's life...or at least save you some money at the vet....

HealthyStuff.org, a new site that compiles the results of hundreds of consumer products tests, lists, in addition to many other things, information about pet toys.

The site tested more than 400 products, including beds, toys, collars and leashes. Disturbingly, many of them contained toxic substances. They found collars and dog beds with high levels of lead, a flowered puppy collar with a lot of cadmium and a squeak toy for cats with too much lead -- among other things.

They also list a number of products -- things by Kong and Nylabone, for instance -- that passed the tests with flying colors.

A beagle steals a hazardous pet toy from a display during a news conference at the Central Vermont Humane Society in Barre, Vt., on Wednesday. The Vermont Public Interest Research Group and the Central Vermont Humane Society announced the launch of a new Website that shows which consumer products – including those for your pet – contain potentially dangerous toxic chemicals. AP Photo/Toby Talbot.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Health, Pet accessories
        

Looking for something fun to do Friday with your dog?

How about a cruise in Annapolis? For a good cause!

A Jack Russell terrier named Ben is invited people and their dogs on a three-hour cruise. Tickets are $55 per person (dogs are free) and the proceeds benefit the Animal Legal Defense Fund, which helped rescue Ben.

The event is sponsored by Paws pet boutique, the business owned by Ben's owners, Michelle and Larry Kownacki.

There will be music and food for the people, and canine cake for the furrier guests. There will also be a silent auction with merchandise provided by Annapolis businesses

Tickets must be purchase in advance at the store, 64 State Circle or call 410-263-8683.

Ben is looking forward to seeing everyone about the Harbor Queen on Friday.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 1:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

Here's a kitty who's head over heels in love -- with a bowl.

To be fair, it is a really nice bowl. I can see the attraction. The kitty belongs to Sun reporter Scott Calvert. When he was stationed in South Africa, he brought the bowl along just because he knew how much it meant to Georgi.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

                                                            Today is the Ravens season opener. And what better way to mark the occasion, Unleashed-style, than to showcase the team spirit of a few area pets.

Here are Lori B's three little football fans: From top left: It's Ricki, Lola and Chi-Chi. They model -- and I do mean model -- their Ravens gear atop Baltimore's Federal Hill.

By the way, Chi-Chi won the Dog Snuggie contest a few weeks ago, so when the weather cools a bit more, look forward to pictures of him in his pink prize.

Continue reading "Area pets say: Go Ravens!" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

One animal rescue is trying to make something good for D.C. dogs from Michael Vick's signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Main Line Animal Rescue, in an ad in the Washington Post, pledged to donate food every time someone tackles the quarterback, who recently got out of jail for his role in a dogfighting operation.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports: Each time the Eagles' new gadget guy-backup quarterback is tackled during the Oct. 26 away game against the Redskins, five bags of dog food will be donated to a D.C. animal shelter.

"Because there are no second chances on an empty stomach," the ad says.

I guess Redskins fans and dog lovers will have a little extra reason to cheer offense during that game.....

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (17)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

As we approach Sunday's season opener for the Ravens, wondering if anyone has pets with passion for the purple? Will anyone be dressing their dog or kitty in the team colors? Getting out the violet leash for the weekend?

I've run into THREE Black Labs around the area named Raven. At least. And I saw a dog a couple weeks ago in a Ravens Jersey at Patterson Park -- and that was just preseason.

So I know some of you folks must be in on this decorated team spirit pet thing. ...

Tell Unleashed what you do to get your pet ready for the game. Send pictures (of course) if you've got 'em. Or tell on your friends and family who might have embarrassed their dog or cat by going too far....

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

As soon as I heard what my colleague and mom to Tig was doing with her new dog stroller, I had to have her write a blog post about it. So, here it is, Nicole Fuller in her own words about her something-less-than-lawful use of a pet accessory. Please, please discuss after you read -- would you be this brazen with your so-called fur baby?:

Ever get annoyed with those “No Dogs Allowed” signs? Do you want to be able to take your four-legged friend with you to more public places?

I’ve got the answer for you: buy a dog stroller.

I recently bought my Miniature Pinscher – Tigger “Tig” Fuller – a brand-new teal blue doggy stroller on Ebay for $49.99 with the express reason of being able to take him EVERYWHERE with me.

And let me tell you, the doggy stroller has worked like a charm! Tig has been to all sorts of places that dogs aren’t really allowed – supermarkets, clothing stores and pharmacies. And not a single store manager has tried to kick him out.

Tig has slopped on his own cup of iced water while in the comfortable confines of his stroller at a Starbucks in a Barnes & Noble while I read celebrity gossip magazines. (A man playing Chess at a neighboring table complimented Tig’s good behavior.)

As I perused the luscious produce at Whole Foods, Tig lay quietly in his stroller, only reacting when I picked up a package of his favorite Wellness dog treats.

Continue reading "Is that a dog or a baby in that stroller, ma'am?" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (28)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Maybe we can get the Orioles -- or even the Ravens -- do have something like this. On Monday night, for their game against the Philadelphia Phillies, the Houston Astros invited dogs into the park for their first Dog Day, something they hope to make an annual event. There was also a pet parade and a costume contest.

At top, Joe Richardson sits with Gracie, front, and Bo at Minute Maid Park before the start of the  game Monday, Sept. 7, 2009 in Houston. To the right, Helen Foreman walks her dog, Scooter Pooter, around the field at Minute Maid Park. And at left, a dog named Captain wears a baseball cap as he waits with his owner outside the park. (AP Photos/David J. Phillip)

Posted by Jill Rosen at 3:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

When Kujo fell into a well recently, things didn't look good.

But thanks to daring work by Prince George's County firefighters, the 140-pound dog owned by Daniel Ellis made it out safely.

The tale was featured a day or so ago on "The Today Show."

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

Frisky dog?

Long weekend?

You might want to check out why Ellicott City was chosen by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top places in the country for pet lovers.

We're pretty sure your dog would like to check it out, anyway. Here a number of area dog's seem to be adoring Worthington Dog Park on Hillsborough Road.

Check out, clockwise from top right, Hurley, a Minature Schnauzer running a ball back to his owner, Jody Scofield. And, Mary Grace with her owner Sister Anna Mae Crane, seemingly grinning from ear to ear. And, last there's Jackson, a Chocolate Lab hurrying a ball back to his owner, Tom Burns.

Don't miss the video.

Here's the corresponding story.

All photos by Sun Photographer Gene Sweeney.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

A new calendar that features Orioles players posing with their pets benefits the Maryland SPCA.

It's just $15 and available at the shelter on Falls Road, Camden Yards, local Petco stores and online. The 15-month calendar starts in September, so you can start using it right away.

The calendar features players and the animals they love including Brian Roberts, Nick Markakis, Jeremy Guthrie.

And hey, since they're not playing so well, it might be nice to look at these guys with something in their hands other than bats and gloves.

Continue reading "The O's calendar perfect for pet lovers" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Celebrities and their pets, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

In a new promotion, you can get food to needy dogs with just a click of your mouse.

The company Halo Purely for Pets has teamed up with Freekibble.com to help Freekibble launch its Twitter page. For the first 200,000 followers for both Halo and Freekibble on Twitter, Halo will donate one meal of Spot's Stew.  

(I just signed up to follow Freekibble and was follower No. 2,131, so there's plenty of opportunity left to help....)

Freekibble was created last year by a 13-year-old girl in Oregon who wanted to help feed animals at her local shelter. The site donates a bit of food every time someone visits and plays a game. It's a great cause and costs nothing to use but a second or two of your time. It's actually a fun site....I just was able to "donate" 10 pieces of kibble for answering a question correctly about poodles -- if I got it wrong Teddy Bean would have killed me!

Halo is a food company part-owned by Ellen DeGeneres.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Judging from everyone's reaction when Rory, the Frisbee-catching dog, edged toward the finals in "America's Got Talent," there are a lot of relieved folks out there this morning....

The dog didn't advance, getting the boot in last night's round.

For a dog, he sure got far!

But the zillions of people who commented on my last Rory post clearly thought the pup had made it a lot farther than he ever should have. Oh well, Rory. You're a good dog.....

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

U.S. News & World Report thinks that of all the places in the country, Ellicott City is one of the best for pet lovers.

The magazine honored the Howard County spot in a recent issue, saying it's "an easy drive from Baltimore's animal shelters and also offers more than 100 square miles of green space within 15 miles of the city."

County Executive Ken Ulman didn't miss the chance to boast.

 “Lately I’d been hearing other good things from both Fishy and Bait, the pets who live at my house," he wrote in a news release. " Fishy and Bait are Beta fish who seem to be thriving, thanks to the tender loving care of my daughters Maddie and Lily.  I guess it was only a matter of time until U.S. News & World Report caught on (pun fully intended) to the fine life pets and their owners are enjoying in Howard County.”

So what do you think, pet people? Is Ellicott City really the best around here for dogs, cats, goldfish? Or are there some other spots that are more worthy? Basing this designation mainly on average weather and amount of green space seems a bit off. What about dog parks? And pet laws? No?

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

As regular Unleashed readers know, we love Nora, the piano playing kitty from Philadelphia. She's been a YouTube sensation for quite some time, but lately, she's getting a second wind of buzz from the traditional media.

Here are some freshly-released fun facts about the famous kitty:

* Nearly 20 million people have watched her play. She has made the television talk show circuit and has videos, two books, her own Web site, a blog, three calendars, mugs, greeting cards, T-shirts and posters.

* She lives with five other cats: Gabby, Max, Rennie, Miro and Clara.

* She was found at a Cherry Hill, N.J., shelter where there was a sign on her cage that said "bossy." She doesn't like other cats.

The Associated Press just moved all of these pictures of Nora voguing for the camera at her home. She's the kitty of piano teacher Betsy Alexander. AP Photo/Matt Rourke.

Continue reading "Nora the piano kitty: A photo extravaganza" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

Ok. So today we've found out that the NFL's official shop sells dog jerseys with Michael Vick's name and number AND that someone out there is marketing a Vick chew toy for dogs.

At Unleashed, we won't be giving away anything with Michael Vick on it, but we WILL happily give out a nice prize today for the person who could best explain which of those two items they'd like to have for their dog -- and of couse, why.

Or, maybe you have another Vick dog item in mind that your dog would like to get his paws on...tell us what that might be.

Get your creative comments in by the end of the day, and there will be a prize or two in the works....

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

Here's a happy ending from our metropolitan brother to the northeast:

In Philly last March, a stray dog was hit by a car. The apparently homeless dog, named Miss Mickey by folks, suffered a broken pelvis.

But according to this story in the Philadelphia Inquirer, shop owners who witnesses started a fund-drive to raise money for Miss Mickey's vet bills. 

South Street merchant Tony Fisher, who screamed when he saw the accident, solicited money from his customers at the eco-friendly retailer Big Green Earth. He and Marianne Ahern, the dog's foster parent, also used Facebook to get the word out about her condition.

The fund-raising effort netted $4,000, which covered the 25-pound dog's medical expenses, with enough left over for a donation to the city's Fallen Officer's Fund.

Miss Mickey, seen in the above picture, is virtually healed and available now for adoption through the Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

On the one hand, it doesn't look comfortable. But on the other hand, it looks like the dog is having a good time.

According to the folks who poasted this, their dog here, Sara, has been swinging like this in the park for years and LOVES it.

The video has been making the rounds. It's got more than 110,000 views on YouTube. There are number of other videos posted there of dogs swinging, but this seems to be the most popular by far.

Has anyone actually tried this with their dog? Results?

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet videos
        

And the Great Battle for Dog Snuggies of 2009 has closed....

It was a most healthy competition -- especially among those vying for a Snuggie to fit a small dog. Clearly many Unleashed readers really, really, really, really want to your little fur things into a blanket with sleeves. As for you large dog owners -- what, you don't like your dog to be warm and cozy AND be able to answer his cell phone at the same time? Sheesh.

Anyway.

I was most impressed with a number of the "applications." Many were appeals from dogs themselves. Who knew so many dogs were online? Like CiCi, a "foster transport failure" who loves life in the North with her new family but, when shivering in January, still longs for those sunny Southern winters. Or the daschund named Hamish who plaintively wrote, "I only need a small one, just one little small Snuggie to make me feel safe and warm. I promise I'll wear it everyday."

Continue reading "The Dog Snuggie Contest: And the winners are....." »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 1:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

When we announced the invention of the Dog Snuggie last week, reaction was HUGE. Clearly people have been dreaming of this moment, a chance to sit side-by-side on the sofa with their dog, in matching be-sleeved blankets.

Well, thanks to Unleashed, that could be you -- as soon as next week.

I've got one in a size Small (for very small Teddy Bean sized dogs.) And I've got a Large, for dogs that aren't huge, but, say, Lassie-sized.

All you need to do is tell me, in extreme detail, why your dog needs a Snuggie. You also have to tell me if you're shooting for the Small or the Large.... AND -- and this is critical -- you must promise that if you win one, you'll send back pictures of your dog in it. Bonus if you have a Snuggie and will swear that the picture will include both of you all Snuggie-fied.

Get your responses in by late afternoon today, if possible. And I'll announce the winner on Monday. Like last week's Crazy Cat Lady contest, the two winners will be chosen on the quality of their responses. There could be Unleashed magnets for a few runners-up.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (21)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

I can't resist an inter-species nursing photo. I should make it a separate Unleashed category. Just a week or so ago we had this one with panda cubs. And who could forget this adorable one with a dog raising kittens?

This one raises the stakes a bit though. In these pictures taken about a week ago in China, three lion cubs and a tiger cub nurse from their surrogate mother, a dog. They're at a safari in Hefei, central China's Anhui province.

The dog has been feeding the cubs since June after their biological mothers abandoned them. AP photos.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

Meow! We had quite the reaction to last week's Crazy Cat Lady post.

Methinks we touched a nerve. I mean, having two kitties myself -- I KNOW we did.

More than 20 people wrote in to talk about whether or not they thought the CCL mythology held any water. Some interesting theories. Like Sean, who thought you could be totally CCL even if you had no cats! He thinks it's something like a pre-existing condition.

Or there was Dustin who says, and I quote: "I believe a cat person is not defined by the company she keeps but is identified by the proportion of cat shirts one wears in a week."

So true.

Anyway. I promised there would be a prize in thise one. And the big winner is Diane Thomas who not only has 13 cats, but has, Angelic, a regular Unleashed reader, vouching for the spotless (and smell-less) state of her home. Diane's got 10 litter boxes that get cleaned daily. She wins a really, really cool cat book, "The Cat's Pajamas." The pictures are awesome. I kinda wanted to keep it for myself.

Plus, a few runner's up are getting one of the brand new Unleashed magnets.

Thanks to everyone who had fun with this one!

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

Is your dog single? Lonely? Having a hard time meeting other dogs?

Having no luck with the whole online thing?

One enterpising company has devised a gadget to fulfill his doggie needs.

Brazil's Petsmiling thinks its cornered the market with the DoggieLoveDoll, the world's first dog sex toy.

Teddy will not be getting one.

The company is marketing it for dogs who are often left alone. Apparently The Kong is so yesterday? Wow.

Visitors look at a prototype sex doll for dogs during the Pet South America fair in Sao Paulo on Friday. AP Photo/Andre Penner.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (65)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

A wonderful update on the most remarkable of kitties from our pet colleagues at the LA Times. If you've heard of Nora, you'll love this. If you haven't, you must read this and get acquainted with her. You won't be sorry:

A piano-playing cat named Nora took YouTube by storm a few years ago when her owners, married Philadelphia-based artists Burnell Yow! (yes, the exclamation mark is part of his name) and Betsy Alexander, uploaded a video of her performances to the site.

Yow! and Alexander meant simply to share the video with Alexander's students (she teaches piano in addition to her work in music composition and studio art) and with their niece, who lived across the country. But word spread quickly among the Internet cat meme community; since the original video was uploaded in early 2007, it's received more than 14 million views. (A second video, dubbed "The Sequel - Better than the original!" was added a few months later and has garnered another 4 million views.) Nora, a gray tabby, became a star virtually overnight, and her musical stylings were described by the Times of London as "something halfway between Philip Glass and free jazz."

Earlier this year, Lithuanian conductor Mindaugas Piecaitis caught wind of the phenomenon and decided to compose an orchestral piece to frame Nora's piano playing. The resulting composition, "Catcerto" (Piecaitis' overly precious title, not ours), premiered at the Klaipeda Concert Hall on June 5. Video of Nora, the "featured soloist," played on a giant screen behind the Klaipeda Chamber Orchestra during the performance.

Continue reading "Nora, piano-playing cat inspires concerto" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff
        

A non-profit organization called B-More Dog is offering free dog behavior and handing classes.

The classes are for anyone with a dog they're having a hard time handling, says Erin Sullivan, president of B-More Dog. The classes, however, are ONLY for people. If you go, do not bring your dog.

The one-session classes, held at the Baltimore Rescue and Care Shelter, BARCS, are typically held on the last Sunday of the month. This month's class is at noon on Sunday July 26. It's expected to last about an hour.

The class will focus on ways people can detect behavioral clues in their dog's body language. Trainers will be available for a Q&A period.

"It's for people who really need help, people who are struggling with their dog and don't know what to do," Sullivan said.

There will be training discount coupons available to those who complete the class.

Sessions are also planned for August and September.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Health
        

While some people are willing to pay hundreds of dollars to get a sense of what their dog might be talking about, it turns out, they could just ask the baby.

New research from Brigham Young University shows babies understand the meaning of different dog barks. Infants just 6 months old can match the sounds of an angry snarl and a friendly yap to photos of dogs displaying threatening and welcoming body language.

The experiments are intended to show how babies learn.

“Emotion is one of the first things babies pick up on in their social world,”  BYU psychology professor Ross Flom, lead author of the study, said in a statement. “We chose dogs because they are highly communicative creatures both in their posture and the nature of their bark."

It's unclear if the dogs can understand babies. It would seem only fair.

In the experiment, the babies first saw two different pictures of the same dog, one in an aggressive posture and the other in a friendly stance. Then the researchers played random sound clips of friendly and aggressive dog barks.

While the recordings played, the 6-month-old babies spent most of their time staring at the appropriate picture. Older babies usually made the connection instantly with their very first glance.

Photo courtesy of BYU.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

When one pastor noticed church attendance dropping off, she came up with a creative, a touch Noah's Ark-ian solution: What if people could bring their pets?

Rachel Bickford, pastor of the Pilgrim Congregational Church in North Weymouth, Mass., writes about her experience leading a more-literal-than-usual flock in Guideposts.com.

Bickford writes about looking down from the pulpit and seeing Lucy, a terrier, Sam, a pug and Bernese mountain dog Chloe. She started services with animals last October.

"Growing up, I’d wanted to be a vet, but in my twenties I felt called to seminary. After seven years at Pilgrim Congregational, I still loved coming to work," she writes. "But folks just weren’t coming to church as much anymore. Too many sporting events on Sundays and too little faith. I looked out at the half-empty sanctuary one Sunday and thought, Lord, what can I do to get people as excited as I am about coming to church?

"...my gaze fell on my two apricot cockapoos, Tugger and Indy, curled up at my feet."

Bickford started with a Sunday afternoon service. After worship she served biscuits and invited everyone to toss tennis balls with our dogs in the side yard. Everyone was leashed. She called it Woof ’n’ Worship.

Continue reading "Chance to worship with dogs brings people to church" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 8:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

It's always nice to see a local spot on a national "Best of" list. And it looks like Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis has nearly topped Petside.com's list of the Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches.

“At Petside, we know that a day at the beach is even better when you can bring your four-legged companion, so we looked far and wide to identify America's friendliest dog beaches,” Joshua Fried, Petside.com's director said.  “This year's list includes some spectacular spots from Florida to Oregon and many locations in between.”

Cape San Blas, in Port St. Joe, Fla., takes the No. 1 spot. With its year-round, leash-free policies and dog-friendly activities like a sailing program welcomes dogs aboard and a variety of pet-friendly restaurants nearby, this place sounds like a must-see if you're in the area with your dog.

But at the almost-as-prestigious No. 2 slot, there's:

2. Quiet Waters Park. Petside calls the park a "dream play pen." The selection team appreciates the park's fenced-off area beach area for dogs and digs the park's annual “Howl-O-Ween Barkin Bash” costume parade for dogs and their owners.

Continue reading "Local beach makes best dog beach list! " »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Travel
        

So you want to know what that bark meant, that growl that whine -- and who doesn't.

Well, a Japanese toymaker claims to have the answer: The “Bowlingual."

Takara Tomy was recently showing the device off at a toy, who, saying it can translate what a dog “says” into human language and emoticons.

People strap the device like a collar onto the dog. When the dog makes a noise, the Bowlingual will analyze what it means and let you know on an LCD screen.

The main catch? You have to be able to understand Japanese. That's the only language it comes in, so far anyway.

The gadget, which will be available in August, will cost you a little over $200, U.S.

Employees of Japanese toy giant Tomy poses with the "Bowlingual," a gadget that expresses dogs' emotions. The company unveiled it the annual Tokyo Toy Show in Tokyo last week. The "Bowlingual" analyses a dog's voice through a wireless microphone attached to its collar and then displays the dog's emotions through an audio and LCD display. Tomy will put it on the market on August 27. YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Pet accessories
        

I recently spent a little time at some Delaware and Maryland beaches for a story that appears in Sunday's Travel section. I found that there are some amazing places there for your dog. But you need to plan ahead to find them.

I suggest steering northward. In Lewes there's a B&B called the Lazy L that not only welcomes dogs -- they flat-out celebrate them. Sure, there are cheaper motels that allow dogs. But they almost certainly don't have the grassy dog run that the Lazy L has. Or the outdoor dog shower to rinse off sandy paws. Or all the extra towels and water bowls or the ability to take the pooch to breakfast where treats are waiting.

Plus, the Lazy L is very close to Broadkill Beach, the only beach in the area where you can take your dog any time in season. Other beaches, like those at Rehoboth and Ocean City, prohibit dogs all the time in season. At others, like Dewey or Lewes, you have to watch the clock, as dogs are only allowed very early or very late in the day.

Anyway, check the story. There are some good finds -- a restaurant called FishOn! in Lewes with a doggie menu, a boutique called Yuppy Puppy in Bethany that hosts doggie pizza nights on Fridays and doggie pancake breakfasts on Sundays.

Write in if you've found some other spots. Or with your reviews if you've tried any of the places I mentioned.

Continue reading "Plan to take the doggie to the beach?" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Travel
        

Here's some huge news for north Baltimore and Baltimore County dog owners. Robert E. Lee park, which dog people have treated as if it was a dog park for years, is finally going to actually be one.

According to this Towson Times story, the county plans to build a secure dog area within the park. The park could be ready in about a year an a half, officials say.

The acrimony between people who like to let their dogs run off-leash in the park and swim there is long running. In 2004 I did a story about it, talking about how Baltimore City built a fence to keep people and their dogs from a certain area of the park, but, much to the city's disgust, dog lovers cut holes in the fence and wriggled through. The city then welded bars onto the fence to make double-sure people could take their dogs through. A woman got stuck between the bars.

At the time, the city's associate parks director at the time called dog people's disregard for the park laws "civil disobedience."

If the dog park really happens at Robert E. Lee, perhaps some of that "civil disobedience" will turn to regular old obedience. Though, just a guess, some folks might still want to run their dogs and let them splash around there off-leash. Just. A. Guess.

Dogs romp at Robert E. Lee while their owners practice civil disobedience. Sun file photo.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 12:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (19)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Travel
        

Check out this boy of summer! That handsome devil is Dizzy, who you might know is the pride and joy of Meredith Cohn of the B'More Green blog. She recently blogged about taking The Diz to Downs Park in Pasadena for a romp in the water.

I'm proud to say that the toy Dizzy is playing with in the water is from me. I picked it out for him at Critter Beach, a great pet store in Rehoboth Beach that I visited for an upcoming Sun Travel story about bringing dogs to the beach. It's a Grriggles neoprene toy, water proof and made for dogs to have a time with in the pool or ocean. I have another one that I plan to give away here soon, so watch out for that.

Meredith highly recommends Downs for dog people. She writes: "After splashing in the surf for a while, we hiked for about an hour on a trail through the woods. We saw lots of birds and a family of deer.

"In all, there are five miles of paved and natural trails in the park. There also are ballfields, a children's playground and a pier. Hours are 7 a.m. to dusk, except Tuesday, when the park is closed."

Photo of the romping Diz by Meredith's husband, Doug Beizer.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Travel
        

Our pet comrades at the LA Times report that teacup dogs, fashionable -- and at times seemingly an accessory for starlets, --  are now competitive. There's a hotly contested Guinness World Records title for smallest dog by height and smallest dog by length.

Scooter, above, is a 6-month-old Maltese whose owner, Cheryl McKnight of New Zealand, believes will one day hold the title of smallest dog -- heightwise. Scooter is just over 3 inches tall, measured from his feet to the top of his shoulder blade. Although he's still a puppy, McKnight says he hasn't grown at all since he was 2 months old, and she believes he won't grow any taller -- certainly no taller than the current recordholder, an American Chihuahua.

The record-holder, a Chihuahua named Heaven Sent Brandy, is fully grown and measures 6 inches long.

McKnight's sister breeds Maltese and gave Scooter to her as a gift. The tiny animal eats from an egg cup and apparently has his share of challenges as a result of his stature. "I can't take him for a walk or put a leash on him," McKnight told the New Zealand Herald.

Continue reading "Teacup dogs vie for title of world's smallest" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Health
        

It's true -- the kitties really are working you...

We may not be able to get cats to do much, but they can get us to do just what they want, according to a report published in the July 14th issue of Current Biology.

Crafty felines motivate people to fill their food dishes by sending a mixed signal: an urgent cry or meowing sound embedded within an otherwise pleasant purr. The result is a call that humans find annoyingly difficult to ignore.

"The embedding of a cry within a call that we normally associate with contentment is quite a subtle means of eliciting a response," said Karen McComb of the University of Sussex. "Solicitation purring is probably more acceptable to humans than overt meowing, which is likely to get cats ejected from the bedroom."

Continue reading "The cat's meow: There's more to it than you think" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 10:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Fun stuff, Health
        

I'm not sure what to even say about this. Having heard grumbles at the July Fourth Pet Parade at Baltimore's American Visionary Arts Museum about people who used colored hair spray to "paint" an American flag onto their pug, this seems to leave that in the dust. With color that vivid, it's got to be hair dye on that little thing. Is this dog abuse or is it embarassing a dog to make him or her look like a bad birthday party clown or is it just a matter of taste? Let's discuss.

Stylists trim the hair of a poodle on July 11 at a pet dogs service shop in Wuhan in central China's Hubei province. AP Photo.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 9:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff, Health
        

Meatball lets out a big yawn while awaiting the start of the 2009 UFO Festival Alien Pet Costume Contest on July 3 at the Roswell Convention Center in Roswell, N.M.

Meatball took 2nd place in the contest. Below the pup tries to untie his shoe. AP Photos/Roswell Daily Record, Mark Wilson.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 2:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

Here is the second batch of my pictures from the hilarious Fourth of July pet parade and talent show at Baltimore's American Visionary Arts Museum today.

There will probably be at least a third batch, too.

There were about 80 pets registered for the event, even more unregistered  and my camera was stocked up on battery power -- I couldn't help myself.

Continue reading "Patriotic pets parade for Fourth, Part II" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 4:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

If you're an animal person, the American Visionary Arts Museum's annual pet parade should be a must on your calendar.

More than 80 pets came out -- many sporting their red, white and blue -- for the event this morning. The costuming was as eccentric as you'd expect from the museum. A pup wearing a pickle. Not one but two pugs with the stars and stripes painted (hairsprayed, actually) right onto them. A tortoise that essentially hauled an entire art project on its back.

Check out my first batch of pics. More to come later. Happy Fourth!! PS:

And if you have pictures of your own pets on parade, either from this Fourth of July or some other parade, submit them here to show off to all the online world.

Photos by Jill

Continue reading "Patriotic pets parade for Fourth" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 1:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Assorted pet stuff, Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

While Fourth of July revelers love the thrill and spectacle of a fireworks display, animal experts advise that the rocket's red glare might be too much for some dogs and cats.

We've got some advice for you, but first, for a story, the Sun is also looking for some people who'd be willing to talk to a reporter about how their pets react to fireworks. Comment to the blog and we'll get your information to the right person. Thanks in advance for sharing your tales of woe!

North Shore Animal League America, the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization, these tips to help your pets have a better chance of enjoying Independence Day:

1. Never take your pets to a fireworks display:

Fireworks displays can be great fun, but not for your pets. The loud noises and bright lights can terrify an animal. Even the best-behaved dog may react with fear and try to flee from the scene, which could lead him into traffic or get him lost.

2. Give your pets a safe and quiet retreat:

Fourth of July festivities can frighten an animal, so it's important to provide a safe and quiet place to relax. Whether you secure a room of the house or blanketed crate, they should have someplace "den-like" in which to retreat. Draw the curtains to block out the lightshow, and try putting the TV or radio on at a low volume as a distraction or as company for them if you go out. Make sure to KEEP THEM INSIDE for their protection.

Continue reading "Fraidy cats (and pups) on the Fourth?" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff, Health
        

Which businesses are the most pet-friendly? Petside.com ranks the top 5 employers most welcoming of pooches:

1. At Printing For Less, 15 percent of the 160 workers bring their dogs to work on any given day. "Our dog-friendly policy helps staff morale, builds camaraderie among employees, aids in creating a more productive work environment, helps stimulate employee creativity, and offers a great social catalyst for relationship development between coworkers," says Jessica Cooper, marketing manager at the Montana-based commercial color printing company.

2. Procter & Gamble's Pet Care division, located in the greater Dayton/Cincinnati area, allows its employees to take their dogs to work everyday. All dogs and workers are greeted each morning by Euka, a Labernese (a cross between a Labrador Retriever and the Bernese Mountain Dog), who holds the title of vice president of K9 Communications.  "Having a dog or several dogs at work really sets the tone for a relaxed work environment and promotes socialization," says Kris Parlett, P&G Pet Care spokesperson.

Continue reading "Top pet-friendly companies named" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

It's time once to get out the star-spangled bows -- the American Visionary Arts Museum's annual pet parade is Saturday.

Even better than a typical parade, the event includes a pet talent show. Every entrant can take the stage and perform. Or, you know, just take the stage and look cute.

Museum officials say "in past years, hermit crabs have re-enacted Revolutionary War battles; dogs have spontaneously 'got patriotic' with owners' legs; a rabbit (and eventual Visionary Pet Award Winner) has incited an outbreak of Peace and Understanding with her gaze; and, of course, we've seen endearing attempts to sit, speak, roll over, high-five, fetch, catch, eat corn off the cob, etc."

Wow. I'm so there. With camera.

As if parading and performing weren't enough, there will also be a round of Musical Chairs for pets and a chance to cool off in pools.

There will be trophies awarded for Best Costume, Most Patriotic, Owner & Pet Look-alikes, Least Likely to Succeed as a Pet, and the esteemed Most Visionary Pet Award. Dressing up pets is encouraged but all animals must be leashed or carried.

Parade starts at 10 a.m. Registration, which is free, opens at 9:30 a.m.

Sun file photo

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

Pabst competes in the World's Ugliest Dog Contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair on Friday in Petaluma, Calif. The toothy 4-year-old Boxer mix won top honors. AP Photo/Noah Berger.

Below, Lydon Oliver plays with two Chines Crested dogs before the start of the ugly dog festivities. Those dogs clearly didn't have the stuff that makes a winner. Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images.

For more ugly dog action, click here.

Continue reading "If you can take it, a few more Ugly dogs" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 2:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff
        

If you've seen all the movies, maybe you can search for a kitty?

With Pet Adoptions On Demand, Comcast introduces another interesting way to browse animals available for adoption from home. But this time on TV instead of online.

And the pets you see here, are residents of Baltimore area shelters that need homes. The company works with the Humane Society of Harford County and the SPCA of Anne Arundel County.

Though Comcast isn't sure how many animals have been adopted through TV, it's featured nearly 300 of them so far in the area.

Pet Adoptions On Demand is part of the company's community-focused “Get Local” programs. It launched here in 2007 and is running in 27 markets across the country. It's one of the Top 10 most viewed "on demand" offerings, company officials say.

Comcast Digital Cable subscribers can watch these video profiles for free any time with a click of their remote controls. Each profile shows off the animal, describing its name, tag number, history and temperament. There's a number to call for more information or to arrange a visit. 

Screen grabs of cat profiles currently available for viewing via Pet Adoptions On Demand.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

More than half of American pet owners surveyed recently say their pets are essentially members of their family -- no different than any other member of the household.

The poll, conducted by Petside.com and The Associated Press, found singles of both genders, but especially single women (66 percent), were more likely to say that their pet is a full member of the family. Another 36 percent said their pet is part of the family but not a full member.

Forty-three percent of pet owners think their dog or cat has a sense of style. One in five people dress them fashionably. Dogs are more likely to be dressed up, with almost a quarter of dog owners saying they've purchased an outfit for their pet, compared with 12 percent of cat owners. (This is no suprise to any cat owner who tried to put anything on the kitty....)

The doggies and kitties are apparently eating well, too, as 43 percent of respondents admitted to feeding their pets people food at least sometimes, with more dog owners doing so (48 percent) than cat owners (40 percent).

Continue reading "Poll: Pets are people, too" »

Posted by Jill Rosen at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cats Cats Cats, Dogs, dogs, dogs, Fun stuff
        

On Friday, June 26, the Maryland SPCA is celebrating National Take Your Dog To Work Day with a “Wine and Wag” Happy Hour from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the SPCA. 

Participants can relax after work with other pet-friendly people and enjoy light refreshments including hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine. Activities include musical chairs with your dog, a treasure hunt for great doggie prizes, paw painting, off-leash play in the fun runs, bobbing for hot dogs and tours of the SPCA adoption center.

Tickets are $10 per person in advance and $15 at the SPCA gate. Dogs are admitted free, however only one dog per person is permitted and all dogs must be leashed. Tickets can be purchased online. All proceeds benefit the Maryland SPCA.

This is the first of three summer “Wine and Wag” Happy Hours at the Maryland SPCA.  Future events will be held on July 24 and August 14.  For more information regarding the “Wine and Wag” events, please contact Tami Gosheff at 410-235-8826, ext. 138, tgosheff@mdspca.org or visit Maryland SPCA.

Photo of lip-smackingly sweet puppy courtesy of Blackangel's photostream on Flickr.

Posted by Jill Rosen at 1:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dogs, dogs, dogs, Events, Fun stuff