Pet Tales

Presidents and their pets over the years

By Beth J. Bates

The latest water cooler gossip revolves around what kind of dog President-Elect Obama is going to choose for his family. Will he adopt (as we all know he should)? Will he purchase a dog from a breeder? Will he find the non-existent "hypoallergenic" dog? There is so much chatter about this decision, I almost wonder whether whatever he chooses, will this dog be the most famous presidential dog in history? Let's take a look at the contenders.

Continue reading "Presidential Pups" »

Some advice for the President-Elect Obama and his family.

By Beth J. Bates

Adding a new dog to your family is a very exciting time. If you have children, they will be crazy with anticipation of having a new, fuzzy friend running around the house. There are some many things to think about like finding a veterinarian and choosing a trainer. But, before you take the leap and bring a dog home, think long and hard...are you ready for a dog?

Continue reading "Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family" »

Rescues across the country help homeless animals find homes for the holidays

By Beth J. Bates

During the holidays, more households add pets to their families than any other time of year. Many times, these new pets are brought home without any forethought or research. And, unfortunately, many of these animals end up in shelters for various reasons like "the dog was too expensive" or "he got too big".

Continue reading "Home 4 the Holidays" »

Naughty or nice, every pet deserves a holiday gift!

By Beth J. Bates

Christmas is right around the corner so it's time to decide - has your dog been a good or bad boy? This holiday season don't forget your best four-legged friend. Pick him or her up a little something to unwrap on Christmas morning. There are so many neat toys and treat to choose from this season. To get you started, here's a quick list of the latest and greatest in holiday toys, treats and fun!

Continue reading "Hot Holiday Pet Toys" »

Four Dogs Share Their Thanksgiving Thoughts

By Beth J. Bates

As you all know, I have four rowdy dogs and our house is like a zoo (except we live in this zoo). We recently moved to a new home on 10 acres in the middle of the forest and the dogs have significantly more room to roam. We've noticed that because they no longer have the constant stimulation of walkers in front of the house, solicitors, the mailman, etc. that they are so much more laid back. We are enjoying our dogs more because they are enjoying their new found freedom.

Continue reading "What My Dogs Are Thankful For" »

Tips for enjoying Halloween with your pets.

By Beth J. Bates

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays - in fact - it IS my favorite holiday. It's creepy - it's spooky - it's just plain fun. My dogs aren't big fans of dressing up, but that's never stopped me from putting them in a completely demeaning costume and parading them around town. One year, Max went as a bumblebee - a pit bull as a bumblebee. He wouldn't look at me for a month.

Continue reading "Beware of Haunted Hounds" »

That's one crazy cat!

By Beth J. Bates

Although I'm definitely a dog person, I've had a couple of cats in my life. My friend, Danielle, is a cat nut. She currently has three cats that essentially run her house. She talks about them like someone would talk about their kids. It's truly hilarious. Cats do some crazy things and a million thanks to Danielle for contributing to this post.

Continue reading "Feline Frenzies" »

The worst dog ever.

By Beth J. Bates

Ever have a pet that you loved to death, but was simply the naughtiest, most mischievous animal in the world? When we adopted Willy from the local shelter, he was quiet, well-mannered and so so sweet. What a scam. He is truly the worst dog ever.

Continue reading "Scoundrel? Scamp? Both! It's Willy!" »

Why do I have to pay for an adopted pet?

By Beth J. Bates

More likely than not, if you've adopted your pet you were asked to pay an adoption fee. These fees can range from around $50 to upwards of $350. To some folks, these fees are a little mysterious. I get asked questions like "Why do I have to pay for an adopted animal?" " Where does this money go?" "Why are puppies more expensive than adult dogs?"

The short answer is pure and simple - animal care. Let me de-construct these fees so that they make a little more sense and hopefully the need will become obvious.

Continue reading "Pet Adoption Fees Revealed" »

Locate a Lost Pet via GPS

By Beth J. Bates

I constantly worry about my dogs getting lost. Willy is an escape artist and gets out all the time. Luckily, we've always been able to find him, but I worry about the day that we don't. There are many ways to guard against losing your pet forever. IDs, microchipping and tattooing are among the most common.

Continue reading "Lost and Found...Quickly! " »