Monday, December 31, 2012

Happy New Year!

"Happy New Year!!"
WOW! ! ! 2012 flew by in no time.   It was a great year, but fast.

Imagine this- if time is passing by for you- think how I feel where one year for a human is seven for a dog.  One moment, I'm a youngster, the next I'm pushing thirty-five!  Talk about your life flashing in front of your eyes?  Mine seems to be on fast forward and then some.....

Either way, it's been a great year.  I've had so much fun pawing posts and barking thoughts that I do know where to start as far as my favorite posts.

I had great fun with Cat Lady from PetConnect Rescue, meeting new friends -dogs and cats- and introducing you to them from Ambassador Pit Bulls, Operation Paws For Homes, PetConnect Rescue, and the Washington Humane Society.  These people do a great job helping animals out throughout the Washington D.C. metropolitan region. Dad hates it when I say that because he's a true Northern Virginian which is a story for another day.

I had great fun meeting and interviewing Martha StewardDarby, Interview 1Darby, Interview 2 and all the artists and crafters who made the Christmas Gifts Festival, Nov. 15 - Dec. 15 a success.  My list goes on and on, but my human says don't go on and on so I won't......  It was just a pawfectly, barkingly great time!!

And, I figured out that Google's statistics has nothing to do with drooling and is a great thing- really cool to paw through!!  I began this blog in October 2011 so my stats are:
  • 25 followers
  • 236 posts to date, with 226 in 2012
  • 9,196 page views since I started
  • I have been seen, read, viewed, looked at, barked at, meowed at or all of the above in the following countries (these are the top of the list):
    • United States of America
    • Russia
    • Ukraine
    • Germany
    • China
    • Poland
    • United Kingdom
    • Indonesia
    • Australia
    • India
This is exciting because I didn't know I knew anyone from anywhere except here much less there though I do have a friend somewhere who's not here but definitely all there!! 

I look forward to a pawtastic year with you in 2013 doing what we do best, introducing you to friends and sharing about their care through facts and humor.  Happy NEW YEAR, my friends!!!!


Sunday, December 30, 2012

Quips, Quotes, Thoughts and Other Notable Sayings

"Who shall separate us 
from the love of Christ? 
 ... neither height nor depth,
nor anything else in all creation, 
will be able to separate us 
from the love of God that is in 
Christ Jesus our Lord."

- Romans 8:35, 39

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Help the Animals with Tax Deductible Giving


Here it is..... end of another year.  Just celebrated my 4th Christmas with my humans and we'll celebrate New Years in a few days.  Been a great 4 years- never thought I would end up so happy- since I was in a high kill shelter before being rescued........

Do you love animals? Have a passion for dogs or cats? But, maybe you can’t have one right now, for whatever reason? Well, there are a few things you can do to possibly satisfy that want for a pet.

Or, maybe you are looking for a place to donate some extra cash you have on hand and want to make a difference in an organization?!

First you can donate financially to an animal rescue, like PetConnect Rescue! When you donate money or items to PetConnect Rescue, you are supporting an
www.petconnectrescue.org
all-volunteer organization which works to rescue animals and give them a second chance. Every donation helps, even small amounts, to defray expenses related to food, veterinarian bills while the animal waits for its “Forever Home.” Or, maybe you have some toys, blankets, sheets or pillows, those are useful items too. They have a list on their website of material needs too.  

Several years ago, people gave. They gave money, needed items and time to bring me and a few other dogs to Northern Virginia in hopes of finding “Forever Homes.” This help, in the many forms, brought my human and I together. We’ve been best buds for 3 years now and counting. The help these people gave affected me and the lives of two humans, my Mom and Dad who care for me.
Huge gifts are great but so are small ones, any amount will help. And, you know, PetConnect Rescue is a 501(c)3, monetary donations are tax deductible! If you have more funds you would like to disperse before year's end, please consider PetConnect Rescue. 

And, if you are not able to donate financially or any items for the animals care, you can always volunteer at your local rescue or shelter. Volunteers are needed to walk the dogs, care for the cats, feed the animals and general care.

Here is a link to donate to PetConnect Rescue now, PetConnect Rescue.  Gifts need to be postmarked by Dec. 31, 2012.  Or, donated online by that date!!

Happy New Year and THANK YOU for your support- you never know what dog or cat and human your donation will touch!!!! 


Friday, December 28, 2012

Friday's Friends

My last "Friday's Friends" of the 2012- the time has just flown!  And, I am sure 2013 will do the same.  It's been a great year, I've gotten to meet friends from several groups, PetConnect Rescue, Operation Paws for Homes, Ambassador Pit Bulls, and the www.washhumane.org.  Some friends have gotten adopted, a few are still looking around and waiting, but overall, it's been a good year.

"Westley"
My friend "Miss Lauren" from the Washington Humane Society brought a buddy by to meet me this week!  This guy looks like a lot of fun!!  Meet Westley.......

Need more laughter in your life? Westley has silliness coming out of his ears! Westley, a two-year-old hound and Viszla mix dog, came to the Washington Humane Society (WHS) on Oct. 7, 2012. He loves to let his tongue flop out when he’s enjoying a nice scratch.

Westley is learning new manners every day, but maybe you could help him learn more. Come meet Westley at the New York Avenue Adoption Center,  202-727-5494  or visit Washington Humane Society.

"Westley"
My friend Cat Lady visited me this week with two of her cat friends she would like to find a "Forever Home."  This first cat is quite a pretty girl (remember this has got to be between us- if my buds found out I think a cat is pretty- I'll be barked, howled and ruffed at!) But, then, again- that's ok, some of them are jealous because I can write!


"Danni"
Anyway, Danni is a beautiful blue cream tortoiseshell kitten with an affectionate personality to match! Just look at her playing with the cardboard!! She was found abandoned with her brother (Gio), and were rescued from a local shelter.

Danni is definitely a lap cat, preferring to sit and snuggle with her foster human and watch the other kittens at play. Of course, when the mood strikes her she has a playful side as well, but in general she seems to be a very gentle sweet soul.

Danni’s distinctive markings definitely set her apart, but so does the fact that she’s also polydactyl like the Hemingway cats. Because of her age Danni will need a home where someone is there much of the time, or a playmate to help keep her company (her brother Gio would be an excellent choice).

Danni is healthy, has started her vaccinations and has perfect litter box manners. If you would like to meet Danni, please complete the online application and they will contact you, PetConnect Online Application.

Danni has a brother named Gio.  Gio’s handsome buff coloring and charming personality are a winning combination!

Gio was abandoned with his sister Danni, they were rescued from a local shelter. He is an inquisitive and playful kitten who enjoys chasing his toys and wrestling with the other kittens in his foster home.

An explorer by nature, he is outgoing and loves to greet visitors. Of course, if they offer him a warm lap, he’s happy to settle in for some snuggle time. Because of his age Gio will need a home where someone is there much of the time, or a playmate to help keep him company (his sister Danni would be an excellent choice). He is healthy, has started his vaccinations and always uses his litter box. If you would like to meet Gio, please complete the online application and we will contact you, PetConnect Online Application.

I caught up with my buddy Mike who introduced me to Tahoe.

Tahoe, is a 1 yr old, 70 lb Lab mix, who was rescued from a rural high-kill shelter. He is a gentle boy and a true outdoors man! Tahoe loves to run, and chasing a ball is his favorite pastime.

He gets along great with other dogs, and after a good game of chase, Tahoe likes to cool off in his own private kiddie pool. Given his size, Tahoe would do best with an active family with older children and/or a good-sized fenced yard.

Tahoe is housebroken, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations and responds well to basic commands. If you would like to know more about Tahoe, please complete an online application and then email Mike.

And my friend Marie from Operation Paws for Homes introduced me to two brothers, Beo and Wit, two 11 week old Terrier/Shepherd mixes!
"Beo and Wit"
These two guys came up from Greenwood, South Carolina very cautious and scared, they spent their first 24 hours in foster care huddled together and hiding in their crate.

In a matter of days, though, they blossomed into fun loving joyous puppies, and now they are a laugh a minute. Wit, with the two brown eyes, is the feistier of the two -- but also the bigger baby when he's ready to cuddle! Beo, with the different colored eyes, is more independent, but also a little more laid back than his brother (although their personalities are still changing every day!) These two boys are ready to find their forever homes.

 They enjoy the company of other dogs, do well in a crate during the day, and are picking up on housetraining. They're being fostered in Winchester, VA!

If you are interested in seeing these two guys, please visit, Operation Paws For Homes- Adoption.

Thank you to Washington Humane Society, PetConnect Rescue, and Operation Paws For Homes for this week's "Friday's Friends."

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Cold Weather Tips and Dogs

"Me at Green Team"
It’s winter.  How did that happen?  Seems like only last week, it was really hot and I was out having fun with my human and the Green Team at church- what a great time that was!

The cold is here to stay for a few months, that’ll seem like an eternity especially to my human.  And the season brings challenges for us to get used too.   My human goes from a "shirtless dog walker" to something that resembles an Alaskan Eskimo.  And, me?  This is the part I loathe- every single day of the season-  when it’s freezing , 32 degrees or below, and we go for long walks, my human puts a coat on me.  Now, you would think he would know that I was born with a coat.  A beautiful black shiny one at that, one that has attracted many female pups over the years... oops... sorry.

But, he noticed during my first winter in Northern Virginia, that I would shiver when I was outside a long time.  I want to be with him, but it seems I am not really prepared or the frigid weather here or the snow storms, especially not like the ones we had in 2010, my first winter here.  So, I've learned to go ahead and wear the coat.  It keeps me warm and makes my human happy- and it’s necessary given the climate. He got it at Wylie Wagg- Fairfax, where the pretty girls give me all the attention I want!

Another thing I really detest this time of year, and when it first happened, I tried to bite my humans hand as I sure didn’t like what he was doing.  Absolutely ridiculous and an invasion of my privacy!   After a walk, my human actually takes my paws, and checks them out.  He looks between my toes and fingers for objects such as ice or chemicals from ice melts or any other items which would hurt my paws in the long run.  Since I have really cool webbed feet, what good hound doesn’t, he takes a close look to be sure no issues are there either.   Apparently, the chemicals some humans use to thaw the ice and snow from sidewalks and driveways can lodge in the paws causing serious issues.  Also, if it’s cold enough and the humans don’t shovel their walks properly, I could get ice pieces between my toes. 

Occasionally, during the warm season, my human will check my paws during and after a walk if he thinks there’s any chance any bad object could have gotten in there and could hurt me.  We were walking one day up a trail and came across broken glass- he stopped and checked me out.

As we walked through the pet shop last week, Dad stopped and looked at doggy booties.   I pulled and tugged as hard as I could to get him away and distracted from such an idea.  I am absolutely NOT walking through the neighborhood, with boots on, and the dogs “laughing all the way.”

As the cold has come back, I allow him to put the coat on me and begin our walk.  I am so hoping he forgets the doggie boots so I cooperate as best I can.  But, it is good to know, should I ever need them, the boots are there for me.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

You Better Watch Out!!!


‘Tis the night before Christmas and all through the house, not much is stirring not even a mouse.  The Pastor and Music Minister have prepared.  They have Scriptures and songs arranged to celebrate the Birth of Christ.  The soloists prepare and the orchestra tunes, beautifully coming together as quietly as the night’s moon. The evening draws quiet as the sun goes down- it’s an eerie quiet as no one is rushing here and there to get where they need to go.

My humans have gone to Christmas Eve service to celebrate the Birth of Christ.  They will sing the songs the Music Minister selects as he leads them to rejoice and praise, the Birth of God’s Son, JESUS.  The Pastor will speak, I hear he’s great- seems to know what God wants him to say each day-but tonight is special.  The world will grow quieter…. the Christians will gather to sing and celebrate.  The Pastor brings his message to a close as thoughts are drawn near with the lighting of candles, and turning off the lights.  The congregation leaves with celebration and warmth in their hearts as they remembered the True Reason for this Season.

My humans come home and get me, Dad is all smiles – he loves a good Christmas Eve service. We head out for a ride through the neighborhood to enjoy the Christmas decorations.  We see Christmas trees, all kinds of colored lights, snowmen, Nativity’s, Santa Claus and many other decorations my humans tell.  We always stop and look- at the “Live Nativity” with care. A light snow begins to fall as the shining moon is covered by the clouds of winter.  We rejoice as we are reminded once again of Christ’s Birth-the beauty of the joy brings a simplicity to the night.  We head home to bed, so we can celebrate Christmas tomorrow.   

The dogs in the neighborhood are quiet and settled, as the calm of this special night draws near to them too.  Each one checks their property as they prepare for a cold winter’s nap.    Their humans bring them in,  and they head off to bed- as I am heading to do.

Then, the quiet of the night is broken, as the dogs begin to bark and howl.  No full moon, no reason for the sounds, until I hear it.  Up on the rooftop, it made such a noise, I barked and howled and rose to see what was the matter.   To my surprise, eight tiny reindeer pulling a sleigh, a man dressed in a red suit with white hair and beard had landed on the roof of the house.  I bark again, and howl too, as loud as I can.  My humans do not wake- I check their pulse- they are alive but stay asleep.  I rush downstairs to head out the door and stop this man before he robs us.  Barking as I go, but it seems to fall on deaf ears. As I run down the hall, a glow from the family room stops me!

I turn the corner and look, it’s jolly, old Saint Nick.  He putting presents by the Christmas tree with care- he smiles at the package with the name Noah- I didn’t know he knew I was here.  I hush and settle as the quiet of the night begins to fill the brightly lit room.  He disappears into the light- I rush outside to see the sight, he takes off with care, 8 tiny reindeer.  They zoom off through the night, to visit another house- I hear a dog bark and howl- Old Saint Nick is visiting again.

In the morning, I find, my humans have no idea the adventures or excitement of the night.  My human gets a strange look on his face, as he reaches under the Christmas tree for a neatly wrapped present, in red and green.  “I didn’t put this here, did you dear?” No, my mom says, I sure didn’t. 

The bow with a label on the present says, “Merry Christmas Noah!  Thanks for the great job you do with your humans!  Love, Santa!”  My humans look with curiosity.  I smile and think, “Thanks Santa!! Merry Christmas to you too.”



Monday, December 24, 2012

A Dog's Christmas Eve

I wondered as I walked through the ice and snow. I knew it was Christmas Eve, but what to do. My humans have been so good to me that I want to get them something special for Christmas, but it’s too late now. And, I don’t even know what I want to get them- it’s has to be very special.

We’re taking a long walk tonight since my human had the day off. We’re headed along a different path, I don’t recognize the area or the scents, Dad must be in the exploring mood. We continue through the ice and snow, making a few stops or slowing down in the areas that I think are a little too slick for my human. The ice and snow is hard for him but he loves to go out with me so we work together on it.

We round the corner and stop. Dad looks at me, smiles, then proceeds to join in with the group of people standing around and singing. “Silent Night, Holy Night, All is Calm, All is Bright…….. “ The music goes on, as they sing “O Come All Ye Faithful.” Why all the singing? Sort of weird. Out here in the woods.

A group is gathering around what looks to me to be a barn or a stable. Okay- we live in the suburbs, not the country! H-M-M-M-M-M…. And a really bright star is shining down on it. This is strange, it looks like a star has stopped over this stable and is shining its light over it. I don’t ever remember being here before. Maybe it’s an airplane waiting to land at the local airport- I’m not sure what’s going on, but my human wants to stay so I will. I’ll just keep an eye out on things to protect my human. The inside is brightly lit.

Then, a man’s voice spoke, I looked around but couldn’t see where it was coming from. All I can see are the leg’s in front of me- but he said:

    “In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken
     of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while 
    Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to
    register."

    "So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to 
    Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of 
    David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married 
    to him and was expecting a child." (Luke 2:1-5)

I tug hard on my leash to get closer to see what’s happening because I don’t understand- why are all these humans here. I can’t get much closer to see. The man continues to speak:

     “While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she

     gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed
     him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them." 
   (Luke 2:6-7)

And, a quiet hush falls over the scene. I begin to bark as I see something white flying in the sky. My eyes are filling with tears as I hear and watch this. I’d never seen a human born and I can just barely see this one - peculiar, they are crying too. Suddenly the light from the sky grows brighter. A few move forward so I follow and can see the baby better. I am frightened at first because there’s a bright round circle around the baby’s head. My human stands in awe- speechless- and moves with me to get a closer look- am still not sure where our long walk has taken us. A man and a woman quickly stand, look out to us take turns saying:

     “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch
     over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the
     glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel
     said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great
     joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to
     you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a 
     baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

     "Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, 
      praising God and saying,

     “Glory to God in the highest heaven,and on

     earth peace to those on whom his favor
     rests.” 

     "When the angels had left them and gone

     into heaven, the shepherds said to one 
     another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this
     thing that has happened, which the Lord has 
     told us about.”

     "So they hurried off and found Mary and

     Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the 
     manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had
    been told them about this child,  and all who heard it were amazed at what the 
    shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered 
    them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for
    all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been
    told."  Luke 2:8-20

It’s getting late and I am growing sadder since I can’t get my humans a Christmas present. They’ve been so good to me by taking me in and giving me a home and food –so soon after losing their other dog.

I looked up at my human who has tears rolling down his face while smiling. Not sure what this is all about. I look up again and he catches me looking. I must have had a bewildered look on my face because he said,  “This is what Christmas is all about- the celebration of Christ’s Birth. He came to earth to save us from our sins so we may have eternal life. It is the greatest Christmas present.” At that moment, I bowed my head in sadness. I wanted to run off and cry- but the leash won’t let me unless I drag my human down the street with me, though tempting, I don’t want to hurt him.   “And you Noah, are a special present given to us to make life on earth, more bearable- if you only knew how much we love you and what a gift you are everyday."

I look at him with tears in my eyes. So, I have given him a Christmas present. Suddenly, the area is dark. The scene is gone. Strange. We walk back the way we came. It’s snowing again and my human isn’t walking through it very well. I walk beside him which seems to somehow offer some comfort to his walk. He reaches down and puts his hand on my head. 

"May the true blessings of Christmas be yours!"


Friday, December 21, 2012

Friday's Friends

Here it is the Friday before Christmas- I am so excited- Santa Claus will be here in 3 days -I just gotta remember not to chase him off and wake all the neighbors getting them upset- I learned my lesson and am now anxiously awaiting for my presents!

There are many dogs and cats who don't have a "Forever Home" or Family to enjoy Christmas with or any other days for that matter.  So, I went to visit my human friends to bring attention to a few friends who are interested in meeting you.  Please keep in mind though, adopting is to be a permanent solution for you and the animal- not a Christmas gift that ends up being returned.

I have friends from Ambassador Pit Bull Rescue, PetConnect Rescue and the Washington Humane Society to introduce to you this week!
"Daisy"

From Ambassador Pit Bulls, I would like for you to meet "Daisy."

Are you looking for a "go-getter", happy go lucky kind of gal? Daisy would be the perfect dog for you! She is outgoing, people centered, willing to work, and very playful! She showed no sensitivities to the body handling test, has no food or toy aggression (she stopped eating immediately and dropped her toy upon request). Her tail is constantly wagging, and she exhibits a nice level of play.

"Daisy"
Also, Daisy takes treats very gently. She's intelligent, and already knows sit, down, shake, and is house and crate trained! Currently, Daisy is being fostered with two other dogs, a pit bull and a toy poodle, and she does well with both. Making new friends is one of her favorite things to do, and she is more than happy to say "hi" and play with any dog that comes her way!

Daisy sounds like a fun dog to have around, if you'd like more information on her, please visit, Ambassador Pit Bulls.

Making my way over to visit Cat Lady (Merry Christmas Cat Lady!!), PetConnect Rescue, I have learned she has two cats "Tasha and Tori" who are sisters and are looking for a "Forever Home."  Though they are listed separately, they'd be ideal for someone looking for two cats.  
"Tasha"
Meet Tasha, a fluffy, medium haired kitten born in early May and rescued from a local shelter. 

Tasha, Tori (her sister and featured below or next!), and another kitten were found in a box on the side of the road. Sweet playful Tasha may seem shy at first, but loves being petted once she is comfortable. Tasha loves to play with toys, especially chasing a ball around. She is on schedule for her vaccines and has no trouble using the litter box. Tasha lives with other kittens and cats. If you would like to meet Tasha, please complete the online application and we will contact you PetConnect Online Application.

"Tori"

Pretty Tori (these are Cat Lady's words guys! And she would know!!) was found with her sister, Tasha, and another kitten on the side of the road in a box.

Tori is a playful girl who enjoys being petted and cuddled almost as much as she loves to wrestle with her sister. Tori also loves to curl up for a nap with her buddies Tonka and Tucker. She is up-to-date with her vaccines and always uses the litter box. If you would like to meet Tori, please complete the online application and we will contact you. PetConnect Online Application.

I visited the Washington Humane Society again this week where I met Figaro!  Somehow, I think I am supposed to break out into a song or howl... Figaro! Figaro!! (like by Mozart?) oopss back to the topic.

"Figaro"
It's impossible not to catch the holiday spirit around Figaro. At one year old, Figaro is a male pit bull terrier type dog who loves everyone he meets. 

Figaro came to WHS from a home on the 4700 block of Alabama Avenue, SE on Oct. 26, 2012, because his owner could no longer afford to take care of him. 

Figaro is a huge fan of treats, so he’s easy to train. He’s just a bouncy, happy dude who wants be part of your active family. Figaro loves to go on long walks and brisk runs, so he could be your new jogging pal. Will you give him a home for the holidays? Come meet Figaro at the Georgia Avenue Adoption Center, 202-723-5730 .

"Figaro"




Thank you to the
Ambassador Pit Bulls, 
Dirty Paws Photography, 
PetConnect Rescue 
and the Washington Humane Society for submitting information to "Friday's Friends".





Sunday, December 16, 2012

A Dog, A Human and the Connecticut Shooting

"Me!"
Paws, prayers, and sadness go out to the families, First Responders, and others who are affected by the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

I would like to mention a few things to you.  First, humans please remember to pay attention to your dog and cat too while you are going through this grieving.  Sometimes people don't realize that animals grieve too, not all or always, but if your dog or cat starts looking at the door constantly or waits in front of the door for someone to come home, chances are, they are missing someone. Or, if they seem to showing signs of depression. You might try petting them more and calling your veterinarian to learn about something else you can do.

On a happier and exciting note, we all know dogs and cat make a great member of the family.  We do things for humans that other humans can't do- it's one of those unexplainable blessings God gave us!

Well, Truman, a dog in Newtown, Connecticut, has gone out with his human to match difference to those in the community surrounding Sandy Hook Elementary School.  A Bulldog and Human's Hugs trying to make a difference.  WOW!!!!  What a concept!  4 Paws to you two!!

Friday, December 14, 2012

Friday's Friends

It's been a busy and long week, especially for my human- he's been going nonstop since the week started!! I've gotten to go along on many of his adventures which he loves and so do I.  He loves my companionship and I do his- been a great match since the day he adopted me a few years ago.

I have a several friends to introduce to you today.  I've gotten to meet some new humans this week who help animals in Washington DC.  They work for the Washington Humane Society.

"Dexter"
First, this guy is really cool, I met him with the Ambassador Pit Bulls.  Dexter!

Dexter is a spunky 6 month old boy who loves playing with other dogs and snuggling with people. He is very smart, works hard for treats, and is very eager to please. Being a young guy, he has a lot of energy that he releases by zooming around the back yard and wrestling with his foster sister. He would benefit from having a fenced yard or a family that takes regular long walks.

Dexter is probably going to be a big boy so consistent training will be necessary to ensure that he doesn't develop bad habits. Since he is still a mouthy puppy he will do best in a home with older children who can discourage and redirect that behavior.

Dexter adores his people. If you are looking for a companion who wants to be by your side, Dexter is your guy!  For adoption information, contact Ambassador Pit Bulls.

I'd like to introduce you to Gracie May from Operation Paws for Homes.

"Gracie May"
Gracie May is a beautiful 2 ½ -year old black and white spaniel mix who is being fostered in Goldvein,Virginia.

Gracie May loves people and adores children, so she would make the perfect family pet. Gracie May gets along with other dogs, cats, and horses. She loves to cuddle next to you on the couch, and enjoys going for walks or playing in the yard. She is house trained, spayed, and up to date on shots.

Gracie May is the ultimate house dog, and has a gorgeous coat of medium length hair that is easy to manage. You just have to love her front white socks with black spots! Gracie May is waiting for a loving family or person to provide a forever home.

If you would like information on adopting Gracie May, contact Operation Paws for Homes- Adoption Guide.

A special welcome to Washington Humane Society.  We met them this past summer when my human did some photography work for them and another group.

"Saundra"
Meet Saundra who is an affectionate, one-year-old female cat that loves people, despite having suffered from a burn injury, where her fur now grows white against her soft gray coat.

Saundra came to Washington Humane Society on March 24, 2012. She has a quirky personality and loves to lick, nuzzle, knead, and answer back when spoken to. She even gets along with dogs!

Saundra is hopeful for a "Forever Home" this holiday season. Will it be yours? You can meet her at the New York Avenue Adoption Center, or call 202-727-5494  or check out  Washington Humane Society- Adoption Information.


Thank you to Ambassador Pit Bulls, Dirty Paws Photography, Operation Paws For Homes, and the Washington Humane Society for supplying information and photographs!

Dog Adoption Event Calendar

It's going to be a busy weekend for Operation Paws for Homes- They are in 3 places this weekend.  Here is this week's dog adoption event calendar:



Saturday, December 15, 2012
12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Photos with Santa
Nature's Pet Place
1446 Baltimore Street
Hanover, PA
P: (717) 632-2000

BRING YOUR CAMERA AND TAKE YOUR PET'S PHOTO WITH SANTA FOR A DONATION TO OPERATION PAWS FOR HOMES!

To be pre-approved to adopt, fill out our application and be ready to take home your new dog right from the event!


Saturday, December 15, 2012
12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
PETSMART
9970 Sowder Village Square
Manassas, VA
P: (703) 396-8631

Event Photographer: Allen Pearson

To be pre-approved to adopt, fill out our application and be ready to take home your new dog right from the event! 
PICTURES WITH SANTA - PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT OPH!


Sunday, December 16, 2012
12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Pets N You
673 Lombard Road
Red Lion, PA
P: (717) 246-1981

To be pre-approved, fill out our adoption application and be ready to take home your new dog right from the event!

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Christmas Gifts Festival - Conclusion


I am truly amazed by the wonderful artists and crafters who paid me a visit during my first annual Christmas Gifts Festival.  A big loud, “RUFF”, of thanks to you for participating!!

I enjoyed meeting people from all over the country and sneaking my Dad’s credit card to buy a few things.  But, don’t tell because it’s a secret for Christmas.  
If you missed our celebration, the Christmas Gifts Festival was created so people who had friends or family members who are dog or cat lovers had a resource to do some Christmas shopping.

If you’d like another look, do some more shopping or just missed the posts, here’s a quick reference:



Nov. 17: Sue Kottwitz, from "For The Love of Dog."










Nov. 20:  Cori Solomon, from "Cori's Pawtraits."







Nov. 23:  JM, from "Drawing Mom."







Nov. 26:  Tracey Ahrens, from “Tracey Ahrens” Tracey Ahrens










Dec. 3: Audra Jones, from "AJ Studios."









Dec. 5: Kim J. Gifford, from "Pugs and Pics."








Dec. 8, my human, er, Allen Pearson, from "Allen Pearson's Photos."










Dec. 10, DeeJayStar, from "Miniature Watercolors."








Dec. 12, Ana Grob, from "Ana's World of Nature."








Thanks again to everyone for visiting and sharing about your artwork and talents.  I am planning another celebration in May, first for my human’s 50th birthday, but don’t tell him as it’s a surprise, (if you have any ideas bark them my way at  my emailand somewhere along the way I plan to have a Mother’s Day Festival too.   


Merry Christmas 
and Happy New Year
from the crew at 
"From The Dog's Paw"
Noah, Pawthor
Dad, Pawditor and Photographer
Mom, Business Operations


Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Christmas Gifts Festival - Anna Grob


"Kia"
I am pleased to have met so many talented humans this month during my "Christmas Gifts Festival."   I'm glad to know that we dogs aren't the only talented individuals on the earth.  Today, I would like you to meet Anna Grob.

"Animals Unique Expressions"
Anna Grob worked with animals for 25 years as a veterinary assistant and professional all breed dog groomer. She is currently a docent volunteer at Brookfield Zoo near Chicago, making this her 10th year. She received a Spot Light Award from the zoo for her dedication to educating adults and children about wolves and their environment.

Anna captures the true beauty of animals within, and natures breath taking scenery through her animal drawings, landscape paintings, photography, and pet portraits. Anna closely studies every animal for their natural behavior.

Writing an illustrating is another passion of Anna's. Her first children's book, A Coyote Who Wished He Lived In A Zoo was released October 13, 2012. Her second book , A Wild Dog Without A Patch will be released in 2013, both books are through Magic Dreams Publishing. As an award winning artist, Anna draws her own illustrations for her books. It fulfills her creative side, while allowing her to continue educating both adults and children about animals.

"Pet Portraits for Clients"
In her spare time, Anna likes to explore nature, and study the behavior of wolves, coyotes, and related canids. She is very active with her two Alaskan Malamutes, and shows them in obedience competitions, dog sledding, draft carting, and therapy work. She participates in events with the Illinois Alaskan Malamute Rescue Association, and the Illinois Collie Rescue. She is a member of The Alaskan Malamute Club of Wisconsin, Therapy Dog International, The Morris Animal Foundation, Project Malamute, and many other animal related organizations.

Anna loves drawing pet portraits for her customers. She feels our animal friends are part of our family too, and she can create your pets photo into a work of art for you to cherish for many years to come. She loves to hear stories about her customers animal friends. It helps her capture their unique personality into her drawings.

Anna has donated some of her work to varies animal organizations for fundraisers. She is currently working on a painting to help Project Malamute, to raise money for over 160 Alaskan Malamutes who were seized from a puppy mill in Montana.

The paintings are done in oil on canvas, acrylic on board, and mixed media.

Drawings are done in a variety of pencils, colored pencils, and pastels.

Anna's work will make great gifts for the Holidays.  Anna can be reached through her websites at www.annasworldofnature.weebly.com and www.annagrob.weebly.com.

"Start to Finish Cat Drawing"