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Bare Bones: Reflective Gear

PetSugar — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 03:00:51 -0800

Now that it's nearly dark by the time I get home from work, it's time to start thinking about reflective gear for my four legged pal. Not only are there some pretty stylish and highly reflective rain jackets that pets can throw on before leaving the house for the evening potty walk, but if your pooch isn't the coat wearing type, you can always attach a safety light to his harness or collar to make sure he's seen even on the rainiest or darkest of nights.

Take for example this Buddy Beacon ($13) from Ruffwear. Waterproof and reliable (the bulb has a lifetime guarantee to never need replacing), this flashing safety light will ensure that you and your pup are seen from up to a half a mile away.

Plus, Ruffwear is committed to making sure their manufacturing and packaging is as environmentally friendly as possible. Check out some of my other picks for reflective gear below!

Do Tell: What's Your Favorite Pet-Friendly Hotel?

PetSugar — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:00:21 -0700

When LilPeaPod came back from her adventure with Samson at the Worldwide Fido Awards, she told us all about the great staff at the Le Merigot – where she stayed while filming the show. I know some hotels have a "Pet-Friendly" policy, but aren't too friendly when you check in. Thankfully, that wasn't the case when she arrived:

I was very impressed with the staff of the Le Merigot Hotel in Santa Monica, who went out of their way to make us feel comfortable, and treated Samson like a king – it was definitely all about him while we were there. Our hostess at the hotel café even brought Samson some ice to chew on to cool him down in the heat! Needless to say, if we ever need a place to stay in Santa Monica, we'll be heading back to the Le Merigot.

I've stayed at a few W hotels (and North loved the doormen at the one in our old NYC neighborhood), where do you like to stay when traveling with your pet?

Hurricane Gustav Evacuees Included Pets This Time, Too

PetSugar — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:30:14 -0700

One of the most devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina three years ago was the fact that pets were not allowed on evacuation buses or boats – so thousands of people were forced to leave their furry loved ones behind if they had no other way out of the hurricane's path. Thankfully, we have since then not only learned how to better prepare ourselves for a natural disaster, but lawmakers have come to realize that pets are part of your family, too.

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In May of 2006, the Pet Evacuation Bill was approved by the House of Representatives in response to the unfortunate treatment of animals during Katrina's evacuation. The bill says that states must take pets into consideration when drawing up evacuation plans, or they will not get federal grant help from FEMA. This is all good news for pet owners, and it looks like the evacuation for Gustav went smoother not only for humans, but for their pets as well!

I Need Your Help . . . How to Refresh a Pooch Without a Bath?

PetSugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:30:08 -0700

You're a good dog, Charlie Brown . . . but, unfortunately, you're also a stinky one! TeamSugar user Megbucks3 needs some help with this pooch. She writes:

This weekend we are driving from Atlanta to Columbus with our 10-month-old Cocker Spaniel. It's about a 10-hour drive – we're not leaving until after work, so during the day I am taking Charlie to Doggie Day Camp to hopefully exhaust him. The Doggie Day Camp offers grooming and I really wanted to have him get a bath so he smells good in the car, but then he would lose three hours of playtime.

I am picking up Charlie on my way out of town and won't have time to take him home to bathe him and I'm worried he'll be stinky after camp even if I bathe him the night before. I'm wondering if you have any suggestions of products that give instant baths, or if any instant-spray cologne works? I think on this trip an exhausted dog is better than a fruity smelling dog!

Now North has these cleansing cloths for his muddy paws but he doesn't tend to get that stinky – can any of you recommend products or tips for this situation?

Do You Know What Your Pets Do When You Aren't Home?

PetSugar — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 09:00:00 -0700

This water loving chocolate lab caught having some fun on his family's waterslide had me laughing out loud! It's either super hot outside and he's trying to cool off, or he's just really in love with the slide! Since the video says the user caught the dog sliding into the pool when he thought the family was gone for the day, it makes me wonder what North would be doing if he weren't crated while I'm at work!

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Have you ever caught your pets doing something naughty or just plain hilarious while they thought you were gone?

Do You Know What Your Pets Do When You Aren't Home?

Yes - I've caught them doing something crazy when they thought I was gone.

No - They're crated/at a pet sitter while I'm gone during the day.

Something else. See my comments below.

Are Your Pets Campaigning?

PetSugar — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:15:31 -0700

I came across that musical "Pets For Obama" video (with original lyrics to boot), and it got me to wondering how many of your furry friends are campaigning for a certain presidential candidate? There's plenty of pet political paraphernalia out there, from tees, to buttons, to hats — which makes it even easier for your pets to choose, or more appropriately, easier for you to choose a side for them and display your candidate pride. I'm personally not going to involve North in the political process this year, but how many of you passionate citizens are getting your pets out to help rock the vote? Source

Are Your Pets Campaigning?

Yes, my pet has a favorite candidate!

No, that's silly.

Something else. See my comments below.

Do Tell: Is Your Pet a Bug Catcher?

PetSugar — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 -0700

While it's important to keep pets away from insects with stingers like wasps, many doggies and kitties like Milo here loooooooove to chase the moving creatures. No matter if they never catch them, the joy is in the pursuit, right?

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Do your furry friends love chasing flying bugs? Tell me all about it in your comments below!

Yuppy Puppy Treat Machine: Spoiled Sweet or Spoiled Rotten?

PetSugar — Tue, 27 May 2008 07:00:36 -0700

North loves his yums as much as the next pup, but I don't think he has the willpower to cut himself off for portion control purposes when the peanut butters are in reach of his nose. And this totally cute (but pretty impractical) Yuppy Puppy Food and Treat Machine ($39.99) would let him help himself whenever he was ready for a snack . . . without ever putting his penny in! The oversized, bone-shaped lever works for paws large and small, and I think I'd have to keep it out of reach and let my lucky one test it out on special occasions only. Am I alone in thinking my wily pup would have it emptied in no time at all if I set it up next to his crate? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Yuppy Puppy Treat Machine: Spoiled Sweet or Spoiled Rotten?

Spoiled sweet – only the best for my furry friends.

Spoiled rotten – if my pet could roll his eyes, he would.

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

Are You Blogging About Your Pet?

PetSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 08:00:37 -0700

Some of my favorite blogs are written especially for pets like lil Luna here (of Luna's My Dog) who would make a perf girlfriend for North one day. Blogs that chronicle daily adventures to the park, the beach, or on vacay can be a great way to show off adoro piccys of a super star pet to admirers around the world. Any little story, even about the crazy way they sleep and talk, is perfect blogging fodder! I've considered starting a blog just for North, but between logging in my hours here and important puppy QT, I'm not sure I have the energy! But, for some people, showing off their pets to the world is a great way to get creative. So tell me, do you blog about your pet?

Are You Blogging About Your Pet?

Yes, I blog about my cutie pie!

Nope. I don't see the point!

I wish I could, but I don't have the time.

Something else. See my comment below.

Reader's Choice: Share Your Fave Songs Inspired by Pets!

PetSugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:00:16 -0700

Before, when I was talking about music being good for your pet's health, it got me to thinking about how many songs are actually inspired by animals that make it to the music charts. My grandmother used to sing this super sad tune called "Old Shep" written during the depression era that still brings a tear to my eye every time I think about it. It was re-recorded by Elvis, who himself has written several animal hits like "Hound Dog" that have been stuck in my head once or twice before. But do you know of any other songs inspired by pets? I have a few in mind already, but this will be fun to see how many we can come up with, some I'm sure none of us have ever heard before. List your songs in the comments below, and next week I'll do a recap of all your great songs!

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Do You Take Your Pets to a Groomer?

PetSugar — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:00:25 -0700

If you couldn't tell, I'm totally stoked about the new Animal Planet show Groomer Has It, and now I'm interested to see how many of you can relate to the series. A big reason I took North to a groomer after I first welcomed him home was because of his nails. Being a new puppyowner made me totally skittish to clip his nails on my own, fearing that I would cut too far back and hurt my little guy! Having a trusted groomer can definitely help to calm new-parent nerves, especially if your pooch has an unruly 'do. So fill me in, do you go to a chichi doggie salon, or do you take on all the clipping and combing responsibilities for your pets? Source

Do You Take Your Pets to a Groomer?

Yes — I have a groomer that I use regularly.

No — I do all the grooming for my furry family.

I've used a groomer before, but not anymore.

Something else. See my comments below

Pet Podcasting With Pet Life Radio

PetSugar — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 03:00:21 -0700

I don't get a ton of time to check out Podcasts as much as I'd like to, but when I do I usually go to straight to the PetLifeRadio section on iTunes first. PetLifeRadio is like a one-stop shop for all the pet info that you can handle, including a ton of fun and informative videos, pet fashion tips, as well as health information from certified veterinarian Dr. Bernadine D. Cruz called The Pet Doctor. This channel is one of my faves since Dr. Cruz offers a broad range of subjects that are super informative and easy to understand, so I'm not struggling to keep up with the medical jargon. To see why everyone can love Pet Life Radio, just

Get Up and Go: Prepping For a Sitter

PetSugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:14 -0700

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, there are those times when you can't get your pet into a boarding facility. So, if you can't take them with you on your adventure, then you'll need to find a sitter care for your furry pals while you are away. If you're lucky enough to have trustworthy neighbors or family members that can come by to feed and care for your pet, then there are a few things you'll want to make sure you do before you jet off on your vacay, to ensure your pet (and sitter) remain as comfortable as possible.
Food:

Make sure your pet's food is fully stocked, and ready to scoop. If you use bagged food, let your sitter know which scoop you use to prevent over (or under) feeding. It's also a good idea to let the sitter know where any extra food bags (or extra cans, if you use canned food) are located even though you think you've stocked enough.
If your pet eats home cooked meals, make the food beforehand and separate meal-sized portions to prevent any confusion, and to take that duty off your sitter's hands.

There's a few more tips if you

What's in Your Pet's Shampoo?

PetSugar — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:30:51 -0700

While reading my new fave book Eco Dog, I learned a ton about what's in the products we use on our pets, and may not even know what they do. Most notable, ingredients like DEA, TEA, EDTA, and sodium lauryl sulfate are linked to asthma, nerve damage, and even cancer in humans, so I can only imagine what it can do to your pet if the product is ingested by licking their coat after a bath.

Thankfully, Eco Dog gives some great advice on what to look for in a quality shampoo. Since you should never use human shampoo on your pet, look for products containing oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil when you need to reduce inflammation and soothe dry, itchy skin. Plus, adding a few drops of eucalyptus or pennyroyal oil to any natural shampoo makes for a holistic approach to ward off fleas, instead of using chemically-enhanced shampoos that can be toxic to curious pets. To find out why this Fuzzyard Shampoo is one of my go-to products for dry skin, just

The Scoop: Feed Shelter Pets Just By Clicking

PetSugar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:00:34 -0700

Have you ever walked into an animal shelter and wanted to take every single one of those little guys home with you? It's so sad knowing that a lot of them won't make it to a forever home. Becoming a foster parent can help by taking the animals out of the shelter and increasing their chances of survival but, because of monetary constraints, it's just a fact of life that shelters can't always get the food and vaccinations they need. So what can we do to help? In addition to donating money to your local shelters or volunteering to be a foster parent to an animal until they can find a permanent family, now all you have to do is click.

The Animal Rescue Site has set up a totally cool and easy way to get involved. Just by clicking a button on their main page, you can help shelter animals get the food they need to survive. To see how, just

Include Your Pets in Your Wedding Shower!

PetSugar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:30:41 -0700

Since you're reading this site, there's a good chance that you (and possibly your new fiancé) have a pet. Combining animal families can be as tricky as blending each other's human families, both needing lots of love and patience. To make all the members of your new and improved pack feel welcome, include them in on your wedding shower festivities. It doesn't take much, but this way each of your pets can get to know new friends and family members that they'll be bonding with for the rest of their lives.

Simple ways that you can make them feel welcome are: including your guests' pets in the shower, having your guests bring a treat for your furry pals along with your own shower gifts, design some pet themed games and decorations, and send your friends home with a pet doggie bag filled with fun treats.

If your pet is the one getting hitched, I have some ideas for their wedding shower too. To check them out,

Bare Bones: Pet Safe Electrical Cords

PetSugar — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 03:00:17 -0700

If you have a furry little troublemaker on your hands – always trying to sink his teeth into something dangerous – then an electrical cord protector is a must have. Keeping a safeguard around your TV, cable, or stereo cords is a good idea so that your pet doesn't get the shock of his life when he feels the need to chew.

Thankfully, you can get a protector on the cheap at Ikea or by shopping online. This cord protector is only six bucks ($6) but can save you a ton of worry and hassle, and it's clear so you don't have too much of a distraction running along your floorboards. Best yet, if your pet doesn't know better than to take curious chews on cords, it's infused with a citrus scent to deter any naughty nibbles. When I lived with rabbits, however, we had something a little tougher, and a lot bigger, because they were quite the super chewers!

Source

I Need Your Help . . . When to Add a Dog Into the Mix

PetSugar — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:45:46 -0700

Thanks so much for helping out – and sharing stories – about problems we pet owners face! Next up, there's the subject of having baby kiddies and baby animals in your fam. MotoLinz has a question about this very issue . . . and, once again, let's brainstorm together and help her out. To learn what it is,

The Scoop: Pets Abandoned in Thai Temple

PetSugar — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:30:15 -0700

There's a wave of animal sickness going on in northern Thailand and it's breaking my heart! Currently, an outbreak of a virus commonly called distemper – which affects both cats and dogs – has caused pet owners to abandon their pets at a Buddhist temple in the province of Phichit, in order to spare their animals from succumbing to the widespread sickness. Amazingly, each of the 50 monks are sharing their rooms with up to five cats each, and more animals are being dropped off each day.

Grossly overwhelmed with animals, although not turning away anyone or anything, the temple has posted a sign that reads, "Wat Bung has enough of cats and dogs. We prefer bricks, stones, sand, cement, or paint," to aid in construction of the temple. Thankfully, the Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has urged pet owners to come back to Phichit and re-claim their pets as well as urging them to have pets vaccinated.

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The Perfect Birdcage: eBay and Craigslist Edition

PetSugar — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 08:00:30 -0700

I know I'm running full steam ahead for Spring when all I can think about are birds! I've not only been talking about feeding the wild ones lately, but wearing them on my clothes as well. North loves birds too . . . only he shows his love by chasing them when we're out walking.

I've mentioned before that I don't have my own bird but, if I did, I wouldn't be getting a huge eyesore of a bird cage you can find at just any old superstore. I'd invest some real dough in a vintage or antique birdcage that has stood the test of time and can serve as a stylish aviary for my feathered fam. While recently cruising eBay, I found some totally awesome bird cages that are along the lines of what I would choose, like this dome topped bird cage (now $91) pictured here for a small bird. I love the one-of-a-kind character it would add to a room, plus where else can you find such cool antiques for so little but on eBay and Craigslist!? I scoured the pages of both and discovered some really nice bird cage finds in my widget below. Check it out when you

Pampered Pals: Dehydrated Raw Food From Honest Kitchen

PetSugar — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:00:38 -0800

One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving – with the indulging and feasting on sweet potatoes, spinach, cranberries, yams, and . . . excuse me while I drool! Since we know that some kinds of people food can be dangerous, Honest Kitchen has come to rescue us from the guilt of eating yum yums in front of a pet – and confusion over what can be shared – by including those delish items (and others) in their special line!
Honest Kitchen's line of pet food is filled with 100 percent of the appropriate human grade goods (minus any wheat, soy, or corn to keep digestive systems healthy), which means that you won't wonder what is going into the chubby belly of your fave pet. It's all whole food, all the time, just dehydrated. Fans of Honest Kitchen have boasted about their pets' newfound energy, shinier coats, and all around better health. Prowl ($7-$50) is formulated for the felines in the house and Preference ($25-$52) is made just for your beloved pups. You can add the protein of ~~your~~ their choice to the food, but don't need to cook up an entire meal everyday! Would your furry family dig in?

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In the Spotlight: 2008 Oscar Goodies For Pets

PetSugar — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 10:15:42 -0800

Every year in February, celebs are gifted with swag beyond my wildest dreams at The Oscars. This year, the mother of all award shows has taken note of the number of celebrities with pets — and apparently recognizing how much we all spend on our little companions — Oscar included some pretty sweet items for Fido and Sassy as well.

With past people prizes generally being electronics, spa treatments, and fancy trips, this year the goodies also included some high-end pet beauty products, clothing, and things that sparkle. Take a look at what was included for those spoiled celeb pups and kitties in my Oscar Gift Bag widget when you

The Scoop: Pampered Pets at an All Time High

PetSugar — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 03:00:22 -0800

For those of you who answer "Spoiled Sweet" on all those Spoiled Sweet or Rotten polls, I guess you weren't kidding! In a story released yesterday, the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association estimates that American pet owners spent over $41 billion dollars last year on their furry pals.

APPMA President Bob Vetere credits trends in design and including pets part of your family to the rise in spending.

"High end products in general are on the rise, as is gift giving and new product introductions and innovation. The pet industry continues to grow at a record pace and the future is no exception. Pet owners and the companies providing pet products and services show no sign of letting up."

To hear more about where our money is going and why,

Stylish Pet Bed Bonanza!

PetSugar — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 03:00:18 -0800

Thankfully, I'm seeing an upward trend of cozy works of art masquerading as pet beds sure to inspire daydreams of catnip and tennis balls! These aren't the same standard issue round, fluffy thing you find at any ol' shop – so I've rounded up some favorite styles on my North's wish list! For starters, this Domino black and white number ($84) looks comfy enough for even me to rest my head on! There's plenty more, so check out the rest of my faves in the slideshow!

Tick, Tock Goes Your Biological (Pet) Clock?

PetSugar — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 08:00:56 -0800

Many couples view pets as precursors to kiddies, how about you? There are many factors that go into any one person's – or family's – decision to get a pet (like we saw on Petfinder) and oftentimes the impetus seems to come from a desire to nurture a new one. When you got your pet, do you think this phenomenon had anything to do with it?Source

Tick, Tock Goes Your Biological (Pet) Clock?

Yes, my clock is/was tickin'.

Yes, his clock is/was tickin'.

Yes, our clocks are/were both tickin'.

No, the only clock's on the wall.

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

The Scoop: Dog Buried Alive and Lives to Bark About It

PetSugar — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 07:00:36 -0800

I know what an awful feeling it is to know that your pet has gone missing. With a recent study showing that only 71 percent of lost dogs are recovered, I can tell you that this is one lucky pup! Billy, a resilient Jack Russell, found himself stuck in a grave for two weeks after chasing a rabbit down a collapsing hole in an Australian cemetery. Having looked everywhere for him, his family had given up hope of ever finding their furry family member, figuring he'd been bitten by a rattlesnake that are common on the Australian countryside.

But with a stroke of good luck, he was found after his barks called attention to his location and he was set free unharmed, only hungry and dehydrated. The family learned, however, that old dogs really don't learn new tricks: “When we took him back to the cemetery this week we had to hold on to him or he would have been back down the hole. To him, it’s a big game.” Hopefully, Billy will eventually learn his lesson!
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Playin' Favorites?

PetSugar — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 07:00:06 -0800

Gasp! I know I'm venturing into taboo territory but, if no one ever asked the hard questions, how would they get answered?! Operating on full disclosure (from an "only" of an "only"), as much as I'd like to think I wouldn't play favorites if I welcomed another pet into my family, I just don't know what would happen. Right off the bat, I'd worry little North would get so jealous that I'd come home to, well, one pup left standing. Since many of you have multiple "kids" of all kinds, and our polls are anonymous (phew!), I want to know how you handle this delicate situation.Source

Playin' Favorites?

Yup, can't help it – I play favorites.

I'm fickle so it varies day-to-day . . . or hour-by-hour.

No way, lots of love to give here.

Other – I'll share in my comments below.

Off Without a Hitch?

PetSugar — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 07:00:08 -0800

North concluded his stay at Wag Hotel yesterday and, lucky for both of us, there were no problems! If you traveled (or stayed home), were there any unfortunate incidents involving your pets or did your holiday go off without a hitch? From pooches eating things they shouldn't to travel plans gone awry, share horror (and glory) stories in your comments. Source

Off Without a Hitch?

Eeks – it was fiasco central!

Not too bad . . . I'm still recovering from minor incidents!

Off without a hitch!

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

The Scoop: Progressive's Progressive Policy

PetSugar — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 11:30:52 -0800

Remember North's cute carseat? Keeping pets secured in your car is very important — it prevents accidents if they decide to crawl somewhere they shouldn't and also helps you concentrate on the road, not on them! If you do get into a crash, and your pet gets hurt, paying for pooch's resulting health-care costs is entirely up to you. That's no longer the case for Progressive members – they've added a pet-friendly perk to their plans. For no additional charge, their customers can get a $500 benefit if a pet is injured in a car accident. This plan (which has been officially in place since Sept. 6) includes liability coverage for any pets that are hurt in a crash other than the insured's animals – so there's no additional need to set up your pet or worry if you're transporting a furry friend for your friend. As a bonus, you can get discounted rates on pet insurance from their site as well!

Source

To the Rescue: Halloween Costumes and Your Pet

PetSugar — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:20:38 -0700

Pup, meet costume.
It's important to introduce the costume and allow her to get acclimated to the actual item before her big debut. I recommend starting at least a week before Halloween, especially if she's not used to being dressed-up. First, let her sniff the costume and get used to its scent. Then, place it on top of her (but not fully on her) and reward with praise and a treat. Consider this your pup's dress rehearsal!
Pup, put costume on.
Never force a pet to wear a costume. Talk to your pet in a soothing voice as you dress her up. Some pets dislike certain parts (for example, North hates the over-his-head process with anything... even his harness) but this shouldn't be a huge struggle. If your pup doesn't appear to approve of your costume choice and fights back, by all means stop.
Pup, have a Happy Halloween.
If at any time during the festivities your pup looks uncomfortable, take off her costume. Make her feel extra special by lavishing her with praise and special attention – the clothing can get caught on ordinary household items so keep an eye out. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures of your costumed pets (hint: we'll ask for them next week on PetSugar).

FabSugar's pup, Annabelle, was sweet enough to model her fancy Halloween collar. To see the rest of her impromptu office photo shoot,

How Far Do You Go When Grooming Your Pets?

bellasugar — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 12:00:39 -0700

Yesterday we saw pictures of Kelly Osbourne and her dog dressed in similar sweatshirts. Today I came across a product called Pawlish by OPI. These are specially formulated nail lacquers for dogs that come in six colors ($10.95 each).They are a one-coat, quick drying formula that seem easy enough to use, but the instructions say, "Plan to apply when your pet is relaxed and happy". Hmm. I'm sure your doggie will look chic and all, but doesn't this strike you as a little bit cruel? You tell me, when it comes to grooming your pets, what little extras do you think are reasonable? Source

How Far Do You Go When Grooming Your Pets?

A usual wash and haircut is about all my pet can handle.

Dog hair extensions are hot!

Dog perfumes smell amazing.

This dog nail polish looks great — will more colors be available soon?

Tell me more (leave a comment below).