Thursday, February 28, 2013

The Paws Calendar




The Paws Calendar




Saturday, March 2, 2013


11:00 AM - 01:00 PM ET
Dog Adoption Event 
Rockville PetSmart
5154 Nicholson Lane
Rockville, MD


11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Cat Adoption Event
Tyson's Corner Petsmart
8204 Leesburg Pike
Vienna, VA 22182

Please be sure to check the website of the group for the event you plan to attend for any schedule changes.



Friday, March 8, 2013 
3rd ANNUAL MARDI GROWL GALA
The Big Easy comes to Alexandria"
7 PM to 10 PM

Tickets:

Where:
 U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Glass Atrium
600 Dulany Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

Proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria









Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Noah Interviews Rufus from Alexandria Animals about Mardi Growl Gala



"Noah"
Pawthor and Pawditor
"From the Dog's Paw"
Hey Rufus!!! Great to meet you! My name is Noah, I’m the Pawthor of the blog, www.fromthedogspaw.com and assistant photographer. My human, Allen Pearson, is the editor and turns on the computer for me!!

Since you are Patrick Cole’s buddy, I want to interview you about some information about the Mardi Growl Gala coming up on March 8 which he sent to be posted on my blog- here’s a few questions for you-


"Rufus"
Photo: www.alexandriaanimals.org



1. First, dog-to-dog, tell me about yourself.

"Thank you, Noah. I don’t like to brag, but I’m a pretty pawesome dog. I’m 2 years old and I know how to have a good time. I love being outdoors and exercising with human friends, so I’m in really good shape. But I’m not all brawn—I have brains too! I’m very clever and love solving puzzles and investigating. Sadly, I don’t have a permanent human like you but I’m searching high and low and know the right biped will come along soon. I’m currently enjoying living with my foster humans, but I’m really looking for someone who wants me by their side forever."




 2. Have you been to one of these Mardi Growl Gala’s? I hear our humans can be a bit crazy, what was it like?

"Let me tell you Noah, these humans are party animals! I’ve never been allowed to go to Mardi Growl because only service animals are allowed at these venues. I sort of resent that. I provide many valuable services. I make people laugh and smile, I provide companionship and emotional support, I can even lick clean every plate at the gala. But the rules aren't up to the League and frankly, with the way some of these humans dance I think I’d rather be snuggled up safely in my bed." 

3. What was the funniest costume?



 "From the pictures I've seen and the stories I've heard, the giant humans on stilts were pretty funny. I thought I had long legs, but these guys are so tall! And they’re constantly tossing out beads and cracking jokes. There was also the Animal Control Chief with purple hair. That’s all I need to see to keep me from running at large."

"Rufus"
Photo: www.alexandriaanimals.org
4. Which one made you bark the loudest?

"I howled in approval of the Alexandria Town Crier. They say his voice booms so loud that when he speaks, all of Alexandria listens. I’m sure if he whistled all of us dogs would come running. He’s a great guy and supports the League, so he’s ok by me. I wonder if the Town Crier needs a four-legged companion? I also hear the MC for the evening is really nice as well. Her name is Alison Starling and sometimes I bark when I see her on TV on the ABC 7 news." 

5. Do you benefit from this event?

"Mardi Growl is great for us dogs. Many of my shelter friends have come and gone, which is a good thing. It means they've found forever humans. The funds raised at Mardi Growl helps the humans at the shelter find these matches for the dogs, the cats, and the small animals living at the shelter. As I mentioned earlier, I’m currently living in a foster home, so I personally benefit more than most. All of my delicious food and supplies are provided to my foster human by the League. My vet appointments, my toys—everything is taken care of. Of course my foster humans spoil me and buy me things, but that’s just because I’m such a good boy. Without the critical funds from Mardi Growl, the foster program might not be around and my life might be much different right now."

  
6. How does the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria benefit from the Mardi Growl Gala?

"Did you know the League offers Charm School to all new dog adopters? It’s great! I hope when I find my forever human, we’ll be able to go to Charm School and learn new tricks and commands. The Behavior and Training program at the League is excellent. I should know because the shelter is where I learned my manners and how to be a good dog. But there are so many other great programs that benefit from Mardi Growl. I enjoy meeting the kids that come by for volunteer activities and summer camp, and I’m proud to be microchipped and vaccinated thanks to the League. Some of my friends even had surgeries to repair broken bones and other ailments after they came to the shelter, and once they got healthy they were adopted. People feel sorry for dogs at the shelter but we’re actually very lucky. We have wonderful humans who care about us and love us for who we are, and they help find permanent homes." 


7. Are pets allowed…. Like dogs?

"The League is asking their guests to leave their pets safely at home. Mardi Growl is going to be noisy and there are going to be a lot of people dancing, eating, and enjoying themselves. This is an event for the animals but sometimes it’s best if dogs like you and I just sit back and let them do all the work. Plus, I don’t think we’re allowed in government buildings like the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The humans rave about what a nice building it is but I didn’t see one patch of grass or dog bed in the pictures they showed me."

8. How many bones to have to have to get in?? (how much does it cost?) 

 "$85 gets you a single ticket and all you can eat and drink. They’re serving “howlicane” beverages and all of the food is provided by Bittersweet. There is a live jazz band, caricature artists, stilt walkers, and more. Couples can get a discount and purchase a pair of tickets for $150. All of us dogs know life is better with a friend, so tell your human’s if they can’t take Man’s Best Friend, they can do the next best thing and take a date."

9. How do I get tickets?

"Tell your humans to turn on their computers and visit www.AlexandriaAnimals.org/MardiGrowl. Tickets are available online and can be purchased right now. The last two galas were sold-out events so tickets will go fast (not as fast as me.)"

10. When and where is it held?

"The Mardi Growl Gala is on Friday, March 8th from 7 to 10 PM. It’s being held in the glass atrium and auditorium of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Building in Alexandria. Humans can take the Metro, drive, or walk and the address and directions are available online."

Paws to you and Patrick for sponsoring this event!!

"Rufus"
Photo: www.alexandriaanimals.org
3rd Annual Mardi Growl Gala 
Friday, March 8, 2013


7 PM to 10 PM 

Public Invited!! 

Tickets available: 

$85/single ticket or 
$150 for a pair 

WHERE:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office 
Glass Atrium 
600 Dulany Street 
Alexandria, VA 22314

Proceeds benefit: 
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria 

Friday, February 22, 2013

Friday's Friend - Washington Humane Society

Happy Friday!!! I'd like to introduce you to a cat from the Washington Humane Society this week.

"Posey"
Photo supplied by the Washington Humane Society
Meet Posey!!!!

She came to the Washington Humane Society (WHS) on July 11, 2012.

Posey was adopted in October 2012, but had to be returned to WHS two months later as the dog she was living with was not a fan of cats.

At two years old, Posey is ready to find a forever home that sticks. She is very playful, and the staff have even been doing clicker training with her!

Stop by the Georgia Avenue Adoption Center, 7319 Georgia Avenue, NE, Washington, DC, so she can show off what she’s learned, call 202-723-5730, or visit, the Washington Humane Society.

Thank you to the Washington Humane Society for supplying the information about Posey!

Friday's Friends - PetConnect Rescue

It wouldn't be Friday without a visit from my friend, "Cat Lady" of PetConnect Rescue!  I love the work she does with cats! They are cool creatures!

This week, Cat Lady asked me to introduce you to Gus!

"Gus"
Photo supplied by PetConnect Rescue

Gus is the perfect cat! (Guys -CAT LADY made me say it!!) He adores everyone (including little people) and he is sure to hear well-earned praise from admirers.

Between 1 and 2 years old, neutered, Gus is a handsome, orange, easy-going tabby boy, who enjoys the company of other cats and dogs. At his recent check-up, he is healthy and up-to-date on his vaccines and tested negative for leukemia and FIV!!

Since he is young, Gus is a playful boy; but he is old enough to be on his own during your workday. Will you give Gus a loving home? He is sure to reward you with his affection.

For more information, please click here and fill out our online application. We will contact you.


Friday's Friends- Lab Rescue

I am very pleased and pawed to welcome another rescue group to my "Friday's Friends" this week, Labs Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc. !  I am anxious to meet some of dogs in this group as they could have the privilege of being related to me!!

I'd like to introduce you to a really pretty girl, Chocolate Lab female, named Belle.

"Belle"
Photo supplied by Labs-Rescue
Belle is a 9 year old who is up to date on her shots and is heartworm negative. She is good with other dogs and is approved for kids aged 10 and up! 

At 71 lbs., she walks easily on a lead and is a big old couch potato most of the time although she does have periodic spunky periods. She has a great personality.

An update from Belle's foster family, January 30, 2013, says:

"Belle has got a bit of spring back in her step. She is now enjoying barking and chasing the squirrels in my back yard. (But the squirrels always win.) When she is not asleep on a nice soft dog bed, she is right beside me or lying asleep at my feet under the dining room table. She loves to be scratched behind the ears.She walks good on leash and recently enjoyed a stroll with my friend and her greyhound. Belle is a quiet and low-key companion. When I am gone for a few hours she snoozes. She is always hoping for a treat and she knows when it is mealtime. She gets along well with the resident dog and cat and loves to spend time with me. She's happy with a couple of 20-minute walks a day. She also rides well in the car. Belle is a low maintenance sweetheart, a good girl and will truly be someone's devoted and constant companion. She has won my heart!"

If you would like more information on Belle, please visit, Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc..  

Thank you to the Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc., for supplying the photo and information about Belle. 

Friday's Friends - Ambassador Pit Bull Rescue

In case you can't tell already, this is one of my favorite posts to write each week, "Friday's Friends."  I was concerned this week that I might miss it as my crazy human got into something and his face swelled up really bad.  I had to take care of him all week!!  And, I do a great job as he is on the mends- "paws of attention" do wonders for humans!!!!

My first friend to introduce to you this week is from Ambassador Pit Bulls.  Meet Admiral!
"Admiral"
Photo supplied by Ambassador Pit Bull Rescue
Oh my goodness!!  My friend Admiral was found tied to a tree, underweight, with a broken femur and severe atrophy! A good Samaritan untied him and took him to the shelter where he quickly became a staff favorite! How cool is that!? 

Despite the fact that people have not been kind to him in the past, he still loves everyone he meets. He seeks out affection and loves nothing more than to snuggle up next to someone to soak up some love.

He has some special needs. After FHO surgery to repair his femur, and it was determined that this is an old injury. So, Admiral needs some continuing physical therapy to try to regain the use of his leg. He is very tolerant of his exercises.

Understandably, Admiral has some separation anxiety so he'll need a family that is patient with him while he learns that he will never be abandoned again!!

If you are looking for an adoring companion, Admiral just might be the dog for you!...  For adoption or more information, please go to, Ambassador Pit Bull Rescue.


Saturday, February 16, 2013

Pet Sitting Business

Pet Sitting Business :10 Tips On What To Do And How?

Let me come straight with a fact: There are more households with dogs (43%) than with children (38%) in United States. Passion for pets, and that too especially for dogs, is a well known fact. If you are looking to convert this passion of yours into a flourishing business that would make you deal with your best friend (dog) and weigh up your pocket too, starting your Pet sitting and caring business would be the best idea. Here are 10 basic and important tips for you that will make your business a vital one among the competitors:

1. Start small: You would have cared for and lived with a pet of years and done A to Z of all that’s required from its breeding to keeping. Do not make your self-confidence and skill punch back you hard. Try with giving pet sitting services to a smaller and limited no. of people, as that would help you deal with the daily intricacies of the pet care world. Professional caring for the local clients in your vicinity at first will help you to build upon. Initially you can work out of your home or can give your sitting service at the owner’s homes. For away pet-sitting, you don’t have to necessarily buy anything for the pets because it is usually assumed that the pet owners will provide the food or money for their food cost in their absence. Also Start-up costs very low for a sitting business, so it would help you to make a stand for your business.

2. Get help and advice: Even though you know every bits-and-pieces of pet sitting, but for starting business, you will need the help and guidance from adults and if you plan to provide your sitting service for pets overnight you shall take permission of an adult to run that. Even if you show your responsibility, knowledge and skills at handling all types of animals, potential clients love to ensure that a responsible adult is there with you to help in case of an emergency. You might also require your own parent’s permission first hand because this business requires, at times, to have pets come to your house to stay.

3. Research before starting: Advertising is the most important thing when it comes to market your business to increase your client base and expanding your business. Get a comprehensive knowledge of what kind of competitors you have in your area, their services, clientele, charges and USPs. Keep your rates neither too high nor too low as that impacts your business in the longer run. Learn what type of legalities your state authority require from you to let you start your business like a signed veterinary release form for taking other's ill or injured pet to veterinary hospital.

4. Build a brand: People love to associate and deal with a group or organizing, rather than with an unknown entity. Give your business/company a unique but a catchy title. Building a logo and tag line would help you to market your USP in a better way. Getting an online address is a must for any type of business nowadays. It makes your customers to know more about every detail, service features, area of service and charges at their own comfort and helps them to contact you easily.

5. Networking: Pets are taken care as family members by their owners and similar care is asked by the customers looking for pet sitting. Getting someone who recommends your business to the probable customers would surely generate more business leads for you. Contact trainers, shelter staff, groomers, vets, volunteers, and other known pet sitters in your local area to build upon your identity. Sometimes, competitors refer clients to your service when they are unable to provide their service to them, or might outsource their service to you to their visits whenever they are out of town or gets overbooked. Offering referral charges or bonuses, to clients who refer business to you, will help you to attain more such referred clients.

6. Privacy Protection: Privacy comes as the prime concern for every business owner as well as customers. Do not drive-through your customer’s driveway with pet-sitting or pet-caring advertisement magnet hoards on your car sides, because it will alert the burglars that your client is not at home. Setting up a post office box and separate contact number for business use rather than putting your house address and personal contact number on your business cards, web address or advertising materials puts you to increased personal threat.

7. Joining a pet-sitting and caring group or organization: Becoming a member of organizations such as National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International will help you to land yourself among hundreds of other Pet-sitting business owners and makes you to analyze your business stand among your competitions. It also offers you to engage in chats, discussion about pet caring. It will also help you to gain from experience of other users.

8. Be Organized: To become a successful pet sitter you have to know and do more than just more than just feeding, watering and walking animals. Explore and learn about animals, tips on how to be more interactive and playful with them. Do get to know and differentiate between friendly and welcoming ones, and the shy and protective ones. Volunteering at an animal shelter or veterinarian's office would be great idea to acquire some hands-on training. And get to know the animal and develop a checklist for its owner to fill out listing all of the vital information about that pet which will help you to avoid trouble.

9. Do not rely too much on the staff: As it is your own business, then it should be your sole responsibility to look over and command each and every procedure of the work going on. Do imbibe a healthy relation with your staff and instill confidence in them. But keep track of each and every animal and the corresponding caring that animal is receiving.

10. Feedback from the clients: Never ever forget this golden rule that implies to every business of any kind. Give your customers full details, confidence and satisfaction about your organization and business before forging a deal with them that never leaves them in any doubt. Try to get feedback of every little activity after providing your Pet Sitting Services to their pets which will help you in developing your service features and skills.

About the Author: Marie Safel is a professional writer, specializing in business and work relationships, that focuses mainly on Pet Sitting Business. I enjoy helping people as a copywriter and marketer and always excited to learning about different niche industries. I do write articles, scripts, books and other materials for clients.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Friday's Friend - Washington Humane Society

"Queenie"
Meet Queenie, The Washington Humane Society's, Mardi Gras mascot and a "Best in Show!"

What a beauty!!  Queenie's a two-year-old hound mix who was brought to WHS on January 29, 2013. Though a little timid, she has a heart of gold. Queenie will be a perfect gem of a pet, with a family that will help her build her confidence!

Will you adore Queenie the way she deserves? Come meet her today at the New York Avenue Adoption Center, 202-727-5494  or visit,  Washington Humane Society.





Friday's Friend - Operation Paws For Homes

Meet Perdy! from Operation Paws For Homes.  I think her name really fits!!

Perdy is a 5 month old pit bull mix female weighing about 40lbs. She may be built like a stubby-legged tank, but beneath that solid exterior beats the heart of a puppy!

She likes to play and play and play, so if there are other dogs in her home, it'd be best if they were of a size and playfulness-level to enjoy that!

She loves to be outside, so she'd love a home with a fenced yard or an owner with time to take her for walks to go exploring. She's working on housetraining, and does well in a crate -- especially if you leave her something yummy to distract her!

Perdy's a really sweet girl, with gorgeous eyes and a great big irresistibly mushable head, and she can't wait to find her forever home! Perdy is fostered in Winchester, VA.

For more information on Perdy and/or adoption, visit Operation Paws For Homes.

Also, I would like to thank Kate Juliet Photography for the image of Perdy and the work that she and HeARTsspeak do in assisting animals. 

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

A special welcome to my friend, "Cat Lady," who has brought one of her kitties with her for me to paw about today!
"Patches"
Please meet Patches from PetConnect Rescue! ! !   She and her siblings arrived at a New Jersey shelter when they were about 8 weeks old.  As her siblings got adopted, she sat all alone in the cage where she has spend over half of her young life.

Patches has an outgoing sweet personality to match her striking beautiful white and grey coat. Patches loves to stretch out and sleep with her humans - purring loudly and contentedly through the night. When she is not snuggling, Patches loves to play with toys. Patches is healthy, up-to-date on her vetting, and always uses the litter box.

"Patches"
Patches loves kids, dogs, and other cats.

For more information on Patches and/or an online application, please click here and fill out our online application, and we will contact you.


"Aren't I cute- Patches"


Friday's Friend - Ambassador Pit Bulls Rescue

Welcome to your favorite blog series "Friday's Friend" written by the world infamous and your favorite Pawthor, ME! I know that you look forward to my postings and meeting my friends who are looking for homes each week maybe as much as I enjoy writing them.

"Cali"
My friend at Ambassador Pit Bulls sent me information on a dog named "Cali."

I'm sad to say that Cali is a victim of divorce and is now looking for someone to love in her "Forever Home."

She is calm and a very sweet love bug who enjoys snuggling and giving "doggie kisses!"

Fully-house broken, Cali doesn't chew on things she's not supposed to and can be trusted to be left out of the crate. She does great with the dogs she currently is living with, is spayed, up-to-date with routine shots.  Isn't she a beauty?? (oops, er, excuse me!)

If you would like more information to visit Cali or adoption, please contact by by email or visit www.ambassadorpitbulls.org.

"Cali"

Thursday, February 14, 2013

The Paws Calendar




The Paws Calendar







Saturday, February 17, 2013


Bark 'N Bubbles Charity Dog Wash
11725 Lee Highway 
#A-17A
Fairfax, Virginia 22030

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dirty dogs rejoice! APBR will wash you! Please come support APBR at the Bark ‘N Bubbles in Fairfax, VA on Saturday, February 16 for some good clean fun! Part of the proceeds from the wash will benefit Ambassador Pit Bull Rescue.


11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Cat Adoption Event
Rockville BARK!
1643 Rockville Pike (Congressional Plaza)
Rockville, MD 20852



Sunday, February 17, 2013


1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
PETSMART
9970 Sowder Village Square
Manassas, VA
P: (703) 396-8631

Please fill out an application to adopt on our website or at the event! 
See you there! Apply to Adopt



An on-going event
Georgia Avenue Cats
Georgia Avenue Adoption Center 
7319 Georgia Avenue, NW 
Washington, DC 20012 
202-723-5730 

Adoption Center Hours
Mon - Sun 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Closed for adoptions on Wednesdays 

Adoption Promotions!
The Cats go Marching Two by Two!
Bring home a cat and a buddy for just one adoption fee!
If you're interested in two cats, adopt one cat
and WHS will waive the adoption fee for a playmate!


3rd Annual Mardi Growl Gala
"The Big Easy comes to Alexandria"

WHO: The event is open to the public.
Tickets are be sold online:
$85 for a single ticket
$150 for a pair

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 2013
7 PM to 10 PM

WHERE: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Glass Atrium
600 Dulany Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

All proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria



Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Help Two Dogs in Need?

This past week, my friend "Cat Lady" from PetConnect Rescue brought to my attention two dogs they are caring for which need extensive medical help.

Cat Lady tells me "Every so often, an animal that comes into PetConnect Rescue's care which has a serious medical condition that may require surgery or extensive medical treatment. We never want to make a decision about whether a particular animal will live or die because it has been hurt, injured in the past or born with a defect. Your generosity ensures that we never will."

"Eliza"
I'd like to tell you about Eliza (WOW! isn't she beautiful!? er, excuse me please!), a one year old rescued from a rural WV kill shelter. Although her shelter days are behind her, this sweet Basset Hound/Retriever mix is fighting a battle of another kind!

Eliza was recently diagnosed with "Ectopic Ureter", which causes urinary incontinence. A diagnosis and treatment plan has been determined, but what is needed are funds to pay for her surgery. Her surgery will cost $3,000. PetConnect Rescue doesn't want a dollar figure to determine if this fabulous girl is going to be able to lead the life she deserves.

"Bradley"
Bradley, a 1 year old Lab mix, came to us from a rural NC kill shelter. When he  arrived, it was quickly noticed that he had a severe limp. The x-rays at the vet revealed an old injury probably from being hit by a car and the wound healed improperly. Poor guy's been walking around in pain for a long time! The bones grinding together when he walks causing unimaginable pain, yet he still manages to greet people with a smile and a wagging tail!!

 In order to alleviate Bradley's pain, he will require FHO surgery (Femoral Head Ostectomy), which will cost $500, plus post surgical expenses. We want this loving boy to live his life free of pain!

In order for Eliza and Bradley to lead the lives they deserve, PetConnect Rescue needs your help. Your donation is tax-deductible and will make a difference!

"Bradley"
And you know, any money they raise beyond the estimated amount needed for Bradley and Eliza, will go into their critical care fund for the next animal that comes to PetConnect with a need for extensive medical treatment.

Visit their website, ww.petconnectrescue.org for further instructions on donating via Paypal or by check, or you can use the ChipIn for Eliza and Bradley link.

I know some of my human friends don't like to donate online through a website.  If you'd like to mail a check to support, please make it payable to PetConnect Rescue and mail it to:

PetConnect Rescue
PO BOX 60714
Potomac, Md 20859





Tuesday, February 12, 2013

The Critter Corner- Dr. Steve Velling

The Critter Corner
By Dr. Steve Velling

“Little Pet, Big Deal”

Since many of you may now have a puppy or kitten at home (thanks, Santa!), it is important to understand how spaying or neutering your pet is a big part of responsible pet ownership.

Spaying, the procedure for female pets, eliminates the heat cycle or “estrus”. Twice a year, dogs can go into heat for approximately 21 days. Cats can be in heat 3 to 15 days, and up to three or more cycles a year. By sterilizing a female pet, the desperate attempt to find a mate will cease. Unwelcome visits my potential male “suitors” will stop, as they will no longer be drawn to the scent of a female in heat. Almost half of unspayed dogs develop breast tumors but virtually no tumors occur if spaying is done before the first heat cycle (usually around month 8-10). Spaying also eliminates the possibility of developing uterine or ovarian cancer.

Neutering, the procedure for males, eliminates most roaming associated with the search for a mate. This in turn reduces the risk of fights, injury, and being hit by a car. Neutered pets are more content and better behaved, and neutering reduces the urge of male dogs to mount, and male cats to mark their territory. Neutered pets are also less likely to develop prostate problems and testicular tumors.

Spaying and neutering are safe operations done by licensed veterinarians. Cats and dogs recover quickly and often don’t need stitches to be removed. The cost of the procedure depends on the age, size, sex and health of the pet, and many humane societies offer discounts for this procedure. It can be done at any age (best to wait after at least 4 months of age), provided the animal is in good health, and it will also help your pet live a longer, healthier life. Give your four-legged friend a hug and a treat, and remember that you play a big role in their health.

Till next time,
 Dr. Steve
www.ashburnanimals.com
 703.729.0700

Monday, February 11, 2013

The Big Easy comes to Alexandria.- 3rd Annual Mardi Growl Gala


I've got to share this event with you- come on out to a party to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria!  It's the

3rd Annual Mardi Growl Gala
"The Big Easy comes to Alexandria"

The beads! Boas! Masks! and Costumes! All return as the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria hosts the 3rd Annual Mardi Growl Gala.

This is going to be great!!!!  The festive New Orleans-style celebration is the League’s largest fundraising event of the year, supporting the homeless animals at Alexandria’s Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. This year’s gala, also known as MG3, blends exciting new elements with classic Mardi Growl favorites. The new, convenient location at Alexandria’s U.S. Patent and Trademark Office plays host to a live N’awlins jazz band and hundreds of animal lovers having a great time in support of a great cause. The silent auction, raffle, and “howlicane” beverages will all be returning to Mardi Growl this year. Each of the previous two galas were sold-out events. More information about MG3 can be found at www.AlexandriaAnimals.org/MardiGrowl.

WHO: The event is open to the public and tickets will be sold online exclusively at www.AlexandriaAnimals.org/MardiGrowl. The cost is $85 for a single ticket and $150 for a pair. All proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Members of the media are invited to cover the event, and should contact Patrick Cole (pcole@AlexandriaAnimals.org) for press passes.

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 2013 from 7 PM to 10 PM

WHERE: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Glass Atrium 600 Dulany Street Alexandria, VA 22314

About the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an independent, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four Star Charity. Operating the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission facility and Alexandria’s only animal shelter, the League provides care for thousands of animals every year, including strays, lost pets, local wildlife, rescue animals, and pets surrendered by their owners. Serving the community since 1946, the League has contracted with the City of Alexandria to provide animal care, control, and sheltering services since 1989. The AWLA is committed to ending animal homelessness, promoting animal welfare, and serving as an educational resource for the community.

Friday, February 8, 2013

Friday's Friend- Washington Humane Society

My friend from the Washington Humane Society sent me a cat to introduce to you this week!

"Sheldon"
Do you have a home for a cat with a big heart and a big story? Sheldon!

A six-year-old domestic short-haired cat, came to WHS on November 27, 2012 from the 4600 block of Hillside Road. He was very weak but had a strong will, despite being very underweight. 

Now, Sheldon is much healthier, more curious, and a great snuggler, plus he never bites or scratches. Sheldon’s foster mom Polly says, “He’s so great, and he deserves a loving home.” Could that home be yours? Email Sheldon’s foster mom to meet him, Polly.


Friday's Friend- Ambassador Pit Bulls

I'm glad to hear from my friends at the Ambassador Pit Bulls Rescue this week!!  My human has had some fun experiences photographing for them and I enjoy writing about their dogs!

Today, they would like for you to meet Rigely!!

"Rigely Going for a Ride"
Meet Rigley! This guy is full of smiles for everyone! He loves playing with adults, kids, and other dogs. He has plenty of energy so there's plenty of playtime to go around!

Rigley is a big puppy so he will need you to teach and help him remember his house manners. Being deaf doesn't make him untrainable, he will just need some patience and encouragment to learn. He's very smart so training with positive methods will stimulate his mind as well as teach him to be the best dog he can be!!

If you would like information or to visit Rigley, please contact, Ambassador Pit Bulls Rescue.


Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

I am so thrilled to hear from my friend "Cat Lady" at PetConnect Rescue!!  I hadn't heard from her in a bit so I was getting concerned and emailed her.  She was really busy, as usual, caring for all the cats that come her way!!

"Mona"
And, of course, "Cat Lady" has a cat to introduce to you and me.  Please meet Mona... (WOW!  If she and I stood next to each other- we'd match and blend! RUFF!!)

Mona is a gorgeous, sleek girl with a glorious shiny black coat, big amber eyes and a tiny little nub of a tail! Practically a kitten herself (born in Jan. 2012), Mona has taken great care of her babies and is now hoping for a family to take care of her. She is very friendly and sweet! This exotic looking beauty would make a great addition to any family. Could it be yours? She is healthy, up-to-date on her vaccines and tests negative for FIV and Feline Leukemia. To meet this pretty girl, please fill out an online application and we will contact you.

For more information about adoption procedures, fees, and the online please click here. A PetConnect Rescue volunteer will be in touch. 

Friday's Friend - Operation Paws for Homes

Happy Friday!!  We've got a wintry mix falling this morning in Northern Virginia- so I'll probably curl up in a warm blankey and snooze away!  And, of course, store up plenty of energy to share with my human later.

I have a new friend from Operation Paws For Homes to introduce to you today. Meet Haylow.......
"Haylow"

A guardian angel in the form of a kind stranger found Haylow and brought her to
Operation Paws For Homes.  Now, she’s hoping that she’ll find herself in every rescue dog’s vision of cloud nine: a loving home where she can shower her family with all the affection her little Pit heart can radiate. Which is quite a lot, as she has continually proves in her foster home! Bliss has taken the form of a comfy bed, some toys to play with, and everlasting cuddling!

Haylow has been a perfect angel in training, showing a quick wit and an eagerness to learn. She’s got gold marks in crate-training, house-training, basic commands such as “sit” (and just a heartbeat away from knowing “down” and “wait” too!) She’s just a pup at 1-2 years old, but she’s a perfect playmate to her foster brothers and sisters, and especially enjoys a rambunctious game of tug-of-war…ah, heaven! Second only to cozying up next to a warm somebody special, though. Snuggling is at the top of Haylow’s good-things-in-life list; although shy at first, she establishes her level of comfort pretty quickly, and her sweetness is positively radiant! This beauty will tug on your heartstrings the moment you meet her.

Haylow is up to date on shots, spayed and fostered in Arbutus, MD.  For information on visiting Haylow or adoption, please visit, Adoption Guide.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

The Paws Calendar-




The Paws Calendar







Saturday, February 9, 2013
12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Dog Adoption Event
Unleashed by PetCo.
5400 Lee Highway
Arlington, VA 22207



Saturday, February 9, 2013
12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Dog Adoption Event
Unleashed by PetCo
2280 Hunters Woods Plaza
Reston, VA
P: (703) 476-3981

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

Saturday, February 9, 2013
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Dog Adoption Event
Petco 
2319 Forest Drive
Annapolis, MD
P: (410) 224-8323

Join Oeration Paws for Homes at our adoption event and meet some wonderful dogs who have come from high-kill shelters and are looking for their forever homes. To be pre-approved to adopt, please submit an adoption application at www.ophrescue.org so you can be ready to take home your new canine buddy.

Saturday, February 9, 2013
10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Dog Adoption Event
Tractor Supply Company
1150 Carlisle Street
Hanover, PA 17331
P: (717) 630-0555

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


Saturday, February 09, 2013 
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Cupids & Canines Dog Adopt-a-Thon
10010 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21042

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Dog Adoption Event 
Frederick Petsmart
5401 Urbana Pike
Frederick, MD 




An on-going event
Georgia Avenue Cats
Georgia Avenue Adoption Center 
7319 Georgia Avenue, NW 
Washington, DC 20012 
202-723-5730 

Adoption Center Hours
Mon - Sun 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Closed for adoptions on Wednesdays 

Adoption Promotions!
The Cats go Marching Two by Two!
Bring home a cat and a buddy for just one adoption fee!
If you're interested in two cats, adopt one cat
and WHS will waive the adoption fee for a playmate!