Paw Nation http://www.pawnation.com Paw Nation http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.pawnation.com/media/feedlogo.gif Paw Nation http://www.pawnation.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Lend a Paw: 3 Easy Ways You Can Help Animalshttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/17/lend-a-paw-3-easy-ways-you-can-help-animals/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/17/lend-a-paw-3-easy-ways-you-can-help-animals/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/17/lend-a-paw-3-easy-ways-you-can-help-animals/#commentsFiled under: ,

simon cowellCast your vote for animals just like Simon Cowell is doing. AP

We know you love animals and want to improve their lives. But we also know how busy you are. That's why Paw Nation is making it easy for you to get involved in the paws cause by sharing ways people are helping animals across the country and around the world. Use these ideas as inspiration for projects in your own community or as a way get involved directly with animal causes.

Hands-On Help: Rational Animal's Mother's Comfort Project aims to provide homemade beds to cats and dogs at Animal Care & Control of New York City shelters. The beds, along with catnip toys, are made by Rational Animal volunteers as well as partnering school clubs who meet in a sewing studio. To date, over 700 beds and 400 toys have been made and delivered. Get involved by volunteering, donating, or making a purchase -- or consider doing something similar in your hometown.

Sign the Pledge: Believe it or not, Simon Cowell has interests outside of making "American Idol" contestants cry. The show's meanest judge has lent his support to and recorded a PSA for the World Society for the Protection of Animals. The organization envisions "a world where animal welfare matters, and animal cruelty ends." You can help Cowell show governments, corporations and other decision makers that animals do matter. All it takes is a signature!

Buy the Product: Baltimore-based artist Matt Snow is selling keychain bottle openers through Ex-Boyfriend, an online boutique, and donating 100 percent of proceeds through April 17, 2010, to the Maryland SPCA. There are a few super fun options (and they're just $6.50 a piece!), but we're kind of partial to "Fuzz Aldrin."

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]]>animal charityAnimalCharitycelebrityexpire-images:2011-3-17helping animalsHelpingAnimalskeychain bottle openerKeychainBottleOpenervolunteeringKristen SeymourWed, 17 Mar 2010 15:00:00 ESTIn the News: Josh Hartnett's Cute Companion, Old Dogs May Help Cure Cancer and Morehttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/16/in-the-news-josh-hartnetts-cute-companion-old-dogs-may-help-c/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/16/in-the-news-josh-hartnetts-cute-companion-old-dogs-may-help-c/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/16/in-the-news-josh-hartnetts-cute-companion-old-dogs-may-help-c/#commentsFiled under: ,

Astrid Stawiarz, Getty Images

Josh Hartnett has the cutest traveling companion. The hunky star was recently caught going through security at LAX with his furry new friend. We wouldn't blame TSA for giving the puppy a bit of a pat-down.

One Chicago police officer's retirement was slightly overshadowed by the retirement of her short, hairy partner. Sandra La Porta gave 31 years to the job, but her partner, a police dog named Lakos, put in 63... in dog years. Plus, Lakos brought a rubber bone to the ceremony. No one can compete with that.

Old dogs might provide insight into new tricks to improve human health. Purdue University is studying some unusually old rottweilers that have dodged cancer and other common diseases to determine whether the dogs' health can help humans live longer.

Blind woman terrified as her two dogs were attacked in a California barn... by a rattlesnake. Fortunately, she and her mother were able to get them to the vet in time to save their lives with an injection of anti-venom and other treatments.

Five years after Iggy the Lab went for a walk by himself, he's back home. Iggy was just 18 months old when he took off, and his owner was only seven, but now that he's home, it's like he never left. And he never would have returned at all if it weren't for the fact that he was microchipped!

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]]>anti-venomexpire-images:2011-3-16josh hartnettJoshHartnettmicrochippolice dogPoliceDogpuppypurdue universityPurdueUniversityrattlesnakerottweilerKristen SeymourTue, 16 Mar 2010 12:01:00 EST"Hachi: A Dog's Tale" DVD Giveawayhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/hachi-a-dogs-tale-dvd-giveaway/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/hachi-a-dogs-tale-dvd-giveaway/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/hachi-a-dogs-tale-dvd-giveaway/#commentsFiled under:

hachi: a dog's taleSony Pictures Home Entertainment

"Hachi: A Dog's Tale" starring Richard Gere was released on DVD and Blu-ray last week. The film is based on the true story of dog who showed his master incomparable devotion. While it's both heartwarming and a tear-jerker, the most important thing to note is that it's an absolutely amazing story. (Read our review here.)

We want to make sure you see it.

This week, two lucky Paw Nation readers will win the movie on DVD. (You'll have to provide your own popcorn, though. Sorry.)

To enter, leave a confirmed comment below telling us about your favorite animal movie (though we're sure "Hachi" will be your favorite from now on).

The comment must be left before 5 p.m. ET on Friday, March 19, 2010.

You may enter only once.

Two winners will be selected in a random drawing.

Two winners will receive "Hachi: A Dog's Tale" DVDs (valued at $24.96).

Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.

Click here for complete official rules. Winner will be notified by e-mail, so be sure to provide a valid address!

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]]>contestdvdgiveawayhachihachi: a dogs taleHachi:ADogsTaleHachiko: A Dogs StoryHachiko:ADogsStoryKristen SeymourMon, 15 Mar 2010 17:00:00 ESTSparkles the Dalmatian Teaches Fire Safety -- And Saves Liveshttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/sparkles-the-dalmatian-teaches-fire-safety-and-saves-lives/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/sparkles-the-dalmatian-teaches-fire-safety-and-saves-lives/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/15/sparkles-the-dalmatian-teaches-fire-safety-and-saves-lives/#commentsFiled under: ,

sparkles the fire safety dogSparkles, the Fire Safety Dog. Dayna Hilton

Dalmatians and firefighting have gone hand in paw since the days of horse-drawn fire carriages. (The breed gets along extraordinarily well with horses, forming a tight bond). And while a wagging tail, cute spots and friendly face go a long way in making people happy, one Dalmatian has gone above and beyond the call of duty -- Sparkles, the Fire Safety Dog.

Sparkles was rescued from a home along with 62 other dogs and soon found his calling after being adopted by firefighter Dayna Hilton, who joined the fire service in August 2000 and currently serves as the Fire and Life Safety Educator for Johnson County RFD #1 in Clarksville, Arkansas. She also acts as Executive Director of the Keep Kids Fire Safe Foundation.

Since then, Sparkles and Firefighter Dayna have become well-known across the nation through appearances on "PBS KIDS Sprout" and "FOX and Friends." Additionally, Sparkles has been the subject of a children's book about fire safety ("Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog"), has assisted Hilton with fire safety education in schools, and is credited with saving numerous lives, including the lives of two little girls from the same school.

Continue reading Sparkles the Dalmatian Teaches Fire Safety -- And Saves Lives

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]]>childrens booksChildrensBooksdalmatianfire safetyfirefighterfirefighter daynaFirefighterDaynafirehouse dogFirehouseDogFireSafetysparklessparkles the fire safety dogSparklesTheFireSafetyDogKristen SeymourMon, 15 Mar 2010 11:00:00 ESTGreen Iguanas 101http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/11/green-iguanas-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/11/green-iguanas-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/11/green-iguanas-101/#commentsFiled under: , ,

green iguanazayzayem, Flickr

Name: Green Iguana

Personality: In the wild, the green iguana is social, according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. However, males can be territorial and aggressive, making it difficult to keep them in social groups in captivity.

Care: In addition to specific housing requirements (including the enclosure, heating, lighting and humidity), you'll need to trim your iguana's nails regularly, bathe them occasionally and monitor their poop and appearance, says the Iguana Pages.

Common Health Issues: According to ReptileChannel.com, green iguanas can live up to 20 years or so in captivity with proper care, though it's more common for them to live closer to nine or 10 years. Green iguanas are susceptible to parasites (both internal and external), tail loss (not serious -- it's designed to break off, but you still should never grab it), burns (if an improper heat or light source is used), nose abrasions (from repeatedly trying to get out of the enclosure) and other wounds and abscesses from being active, reports The Iguana Pages.

The same source lists common health issues as bladder stones, egg binding, mites, burns and

Training Tips: If your green iguana isn't properly tamed and trained, it can be aggressive and very dangerous, says the Green Iguana Society. The source outlines a number of steps in making your lizard comfortable and stress-free -- both very important when training it to be handled. With patience and consistency, you should be able to train your iguana to be handled and even give it some freedom outside its enclosure!

Continue reading Green Iguanas 101

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]]>green iguanaGreenIguanaiguanalizardsmall petsSmallPetsKristen SeymourThu, 11 Mar 2010 10:00:00 ESTIn the News: Tasmanian Devils Find New Hope, Barbie Gets a Dog and Morehttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/10/in-the-news-tasmanian-devils-find-new-hope-barbie-gets-a-dog-a/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/10/in-the-news-tasmanian-devils-find-new-hope-barbie-gets-a-dog-a/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/10/in-the-news-tasmanian-devils-find-new-hope-barbie-gets-a-dog-a/#commentsFiled under:

tasmanian devilsTony Britt-Lewis, AFP/Getty Images

Things are looking up for Taz! Australian scientists have discovered a colony of Tasmanian devils with an apparent immunity to the cancer that has severely reduced the population of the furry little animals. Currently an endangered species, Tasmanian devils spread the deadly cancer when they bite each other's faces. Hopefully this colony will give researchers answers on how to keep their brothers and sisters healthy.

Move over, Ken. Barbie's got a new love in her life. Russ is unveiling the Barbie Pet plush collection, which will include three pets: Sequin, a white poodle; Blissa, a kitten; and Lacey, a chihuahua puppy. Each pet has a story explaining its friendship with Barbie.

Is your Fido a fatty? Obesity isn't just a problem for humans. Pet obesity in the United States is growing. While that pun is intended, the situation is far from funny; obesity is now the single biggest pet health threat in the U.S. It's unlikely to turn around anytime soon, either, since owners of larger dogs like Labradors and golden retrievers tend to believe their pets are a normal weight when, actually, they're fatty boombalatties.

This dog's a lifesaver. A boy in Connecticut suffers from epilepsy, but thanks to his best friend -- a specially trained dog named Alfie -- his seizures can be predicted and more safely managed. Tonic has the scoop on this touching story.

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]]>barbiebarbie petsBarbiePetsexpire-images:2011-3-10pet obesityPetObesityseizure sniffing dogseizuresSeizureSniffingDogtasmanian deviltasmanian devil cancerTasmanianDevilTasmanianDevilCancerKristen SeymourWed, 10 Mar 2010 11:00:00 ESTDVD Review: 'Hachi: A Dog's Tale'http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/09/dvd-review-hachi-a-dogs-tale/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/09/dvd-review-hachi-a-dogs-tale/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/09/dvd-review-hachi-a-dogs-tale/#commentsFiled under:



We're suckers for cute animal movies. Show us a film featuring a fuzzy puppy wreaking havoc while worming its adorable way into a lead character's jaded/bitter/frozen heart, and we'll gladly give you two hours of our time. That is, as long as a box of tissues is nearby.

hachi: a dog's taleSony Pictures Home Entertainment

(Don't you judge us. Name the last animal movie you saw that didn't get you a little choked up!)

Naturally,we jumped at the chance to preview a DVD of "Hachi: A Dog's Tale" starring Richard Gere and directed by "Chocolat" auteur Lasse Hallström. The film is based on the true story of an Akita named Hachiko, who lived in Japan in the early 20th century, and is a remake of a 1987 Japanese film called "Hachikō Monogatari." The story begins when Hachi, a little lost puppy, is rescued by professor Parker Wilson (Gere), much to the chagrin of Wilson's wife, Cate (Joan Allen). But of course it doesn't take long before the whole family falls for the adorable pooch. And when tragedy strikes, the entire town realizes the depth of Hachi's devotion to his master.

The story is told from the dog's perspective, though the viewer remains aware of what occurs outside of Hachi's frame of reference. Some shots even present the world through the dog's eyes. And while Hachi's thoughts aren't narrated, Hallström clearly communicates Hachi's emotions to the audience in a way that evokes a devoted dog owner's ability to sense what a beloved canine is thinking.

Anyone who loves animals and has experienced the loyalty a dog shows its owner will understand just how moving this story is. And while that tissue box may very well prove necessary, the film successfully touches hearts without resorting to sappy sentimentality.

"Hachi" is out today on DVD and Blu-ray. Will you be bringing home a copy for your family?

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]]>akitadvdhachihachikohachiko: a dogs storyHachiko:ADogsStorymovierichard gereRichardGeretrue storyTrueStoryKristen SeymourTue, 09 Mar 2010 13:00:00 ESTOscar Winner Sandra Bullock Is A Big Winner With Animal Lovers Toohttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/oscar-winner-sandra-bullock-wins-big-with-her-pets-too/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/oscar-winner-sandra-bullock-wins-big-with-her-pets-too/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/oscar-winner-sandra-bullock-wins-big-with-her-pets-too/#commentsFiled under: , ,

sandra bullock oscarCraig Barritt, Getty Images

Sandra Bullock might have taken home the coveted gold statue at last night's Academy Awards, but we've considered her a "best actress" for quite some time for her devotion to the paws cause.

Earlier this year, when she and husband Jesse James' beloved pit bull, CinnaBun, went missing, friends of the then Oscar-nominee noted that she'd rather have their pet back than win an Oscar. Happily for Sandra, she got both! But there's another reason pet lovers show Bullock such devotion; she's the mother of two special needs rescue pups, which she discussed today on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Poppy, a Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix, has three legs, and Ruby the Chihuahua has just two legs (you can see them both at PetSugar). And while they might be missing a limb or two, it's evident they're not missing any love.They are part of the extended family of animals in the Bullock/James household.

Bullock isn't the only acclaimed actor with a lot of love for her pets -- just last year, Mickey Rourke acknowledged his dogs in his Golden Globes acceptance speech, and showed up at the Oscars wearing a pendant with a picture of his dog, Loki, who had passed away less than a week before the event. And Amanda Seyfried, who presented last night, is completely in love with her new puppy.

Not ready to let the Oscars buzz go just yet? You can still vote for the Paw Nation Pawscars, and then check out these pictures of celebs and their pets!

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]]>academy awardsAcademyAwardsamanda seyfriedAmandaSeyfriedcinnabunjesse jamesJesseJamesmickey rourkeMickeyRourkeoscar winnerOscarWinnerrescue dogRescueDogsandra bullockSandraBullockspecial needs petsSpecialNeedsPetsthree-legged dogsThree-leggedDogstwo-legged dogTwo-leggedDogKristen SeymourMon, 08 Mar 2010 17:45:00 ESTThe "Eagle Whisperer" Calms Trapped Bald Eagle And Saves Himhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/the-eagle-whisperer-calms-trapped-bald-eagle-and-saves-him/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/the-eagle-whisperer-calms-trapped-bald-eagle-and-saves-him/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/08/the-eagle-whisperer-calms-trapped-bald-eagle-and-saves-him/#commentsFiled under:

You might have a way with dogs or cats, but how about eagles? Raptor specialist Tim Brown put his bird-soothing skills to good use when a bald eagle became tangled in a rope in Sammamish, Wash. and nobody was able to get close enough to free it. With a soft whistle that he refers to as an "Eagle Song" (and, we like to think a gentle look in his eye), he quickly gained the eagle's trust and was able to calm him, hood him, and free him -- after which the frightened but mostly uninjured bird was transported to rehab facility.

Watch Brown's remarkable work below!

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]]>bald eagleBaldEagleeagleeagle rescueeagle whispererEagleRescueEagleWhisperermorning rushMorningRushrescueKristen SeymourMon, 08 Mar 2010 11:00:00 ESTDogs Get in the Driver's Seat for Snausages 'Man Sled Race'http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/05/dogs-get-in-the-drivers-seat-for-snausages-man-sled-race/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/05/dogs-get-in-the-drivers-seat-for-snausages-man-sled-race/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/05/dogs-get-in-the-drivers-seat-for-snausages-man-sled-race/#commentsFiled under: ,

Al Grillo

Alaska has played host to plenty of races involving dogs, snow, and sleds, but in the first ever Snausages Man Sled Race in Girdwood, Alaska at the Alyeska Resort, men and their dogs switch roles!

Earlier this week, canines called the shots as four teams of men pulled sleds across 75 yards of frozen Alaskan terrain seeking victory, glory and, most importantly, a sizable donation to their pet charity of choice. The Red team won the big prize, $5,000 for the Second Chance League -- an organization that works to find permanent homes for sled dogs. They were followed by the Yellow, Green and Blue teams, each of which still received $1,000 for their charities.

Paw Nation had a chance to ask one of the winners, Danny Seavey -- who is competing in the Iditarod Dog Sled Race this weekend -- a few questions about this human competition:

How did you get involved with the man sled race?
This was something my brothers and I had talked about for a long time. We'd even done similar races up and down the driveway as kids, so when Snausages contacted us about doing it for a good cause, I was very excited to be involved.

What kind of training was involved in preparing for the event?
We spent two hours a day for over a week teaching my dog Chinook to stay in the sled. She would climb in and sit down okay, but as soon as the sled started moving, she would jump out and try to pull it. She really sympathized with us athletes, and I think she felt bad about making us pull her. Once she finally figured out we really wanted to pull her, she decided she liked it. She would make us pull her past all the other female dogs, and she'd ride past looking like a queen.

Continue reading Dogs Get in the Driver's Seat for Snausages 'Man Sled Race'

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]]>charitydog sleddingDogSleddinggeo:65.285782+-151.647003man sled raceManSledRacesecond chance leagueSecondChanceLeaguesled dogsSledDogssnausagesWhere:alaskaKristen SeymourFri, 05 Mar 2010 12:15:00 ESTGreen Anoles 101http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/03/green-anoles-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/03/green-anoles-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/03/green-anoles-101/#commentsFiled under: ,

green anoleClicksy, Flickr

Name: Green Anole

Personality: Skittish, not terribly social (though small groups of females with no more than one male can work well). Males can be territorial.

Care: This is a fairly low-maintenance reptile according to About.com Exotic Pets, which also states that an aquarium of proper size (at least 10 gallons, larger for groups) is required, and the daytime temperature should remain around 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 70 percent humidity. You'll need to mist their enclosures a couple of times a day in order for the green anoles to hydrate. They lap water from their surroundings rather than drink from a dish. Plants and branches should be provided. A diet of live crickets (gut loaded and supplemented) will keep them healthy.

Common Health Issues: Green anoles are hardy, so they don't have many health problems, says allpetinc.com. Providing proper full-spectrum lighting and branches for basking will keep your lizard unstressed and healthy. However, green anoles are susceptible to metabolic bone disease, mouth rot, respiratory ailments and shedding.

Training Tips: This isn't the friendliest pet out there, but with consistent, calm attention, you might have luck with training your green anole to be handled. Don't be heartbroken if it doesn't happen, though.

Best For: This is a great "beginner" reptile because it doesn't require a huge commitment in terms of time or money. Of course, you still need to be prepared to care for the green anole for its full life, which will likely span around four years but can be longer than eight years with proper care according to About.com Exotic Pets.

What Green Anole Owners Say: Nick Brown of Portsmouth, R.I. tells Paw Nation, "I bought green anoles as a Christmas present for my son two years ago and we have enjoyed having them as pets. Our favorite part is feeding them live crickets because of the excitement seeing them hunt and eat a cricket when it is still alive. It's also cool to see them puff out their red throat sacs in the summertime."

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]]>green anoleGreenAnolelizardreptilesmall petSmallPetKristen SeymourWed, 03 Mar 2010 10:00:00 ESTKane & Couture Giveawayhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/01/kane-and-couture-giveaway/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/01/kane-and-couture-giveaway/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/03/01/kane-and-couture-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: ,

You take pride in how you dress each time you leave the house. Why should your pampered pooch look any less dashing? A few glamorous accessories -- such as the ones found at Kane & Couture -- can go a long way towards looking stylish on the street.

Luckily for you, we're giving away one medium or large dog collar or harness from the edgy, high-end brand from one of the following collections: Street Chic, Downtown Dog, City Pooch, or Urban Hound.

Of course, like all of our giveaways, this one is easy to enter!

To enter, leave a confirmed comment below telling us a little bit about your dog's style. Is she a princess? Punk rocker? Totally sporty?

The comment must be left before 5 p.m. ET on Friday, March 5, 2010.

You may enter only once.

One winner will be selected in a random drawing.

One winner will receive one Kane & Couture medium or large dog collar or harness from one of the collections listed above (valued at $55-$75).

Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.

Click here for complete official rules. Winner will be notified by e-mail, so be sure to provide a valid address!

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]]>contestdog collardog fashiondog harnessDogCollarDogFashionDogHarnessgiveawaykane coutureKaneCouturepet fashionPetFashionstyleKristen SeymourMon, 01 Mar 2010 17:30:00 ESTBlind Sled Dog Loves Running With the Packhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/25/blind-sled-dog-loves-running-with-the-pack/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/25/blind-sled-dog-loves-running-with-the-pack/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/25/blind-sled-dog-loves-running-with-the-pack/#commentsFiled under: ,

Isobel the husky might have lost her vision, but that hasn't diminished this sled dog's spirit or love of running. In fact, when she went blind at the age of four and her owners tried to make her into a house pet, she wouldn't have it; she refused to eat or drink until she was able to run once again.

Her owners harness her in with the rest of the dogs, and though she can't see where she's going, she has a whole team to help guide her. Five years after her world went dark, Isabelle continues to pull a sled, and as her owners say on "Today," it's a reminder to the rest of us to "never say never."

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]]>blindblind dogBlindDoghuskyisabellemushsled dogSledDogKristen SeymourThu, 25 Feb 2010 13:15:00 ESTPet Product Review: Big Daddy Dog Biscuitshttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/19/pet-product-review-big-daddy-dog-biscuits/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/19/pet-product-review-big-daddy-dog-biscuits/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/19/pet-product-review-big-daddy-dog-biscuits/#commentsFiled under: ,

big daddy biscuitsBig Daddy Biscuits

Most of the dog treats in my house smell like, well, dog treats. You know what I mean -- overly meaty, with a scent that stays on your hands long after your pup has licked your fingers clean. So when I found out about the all-natural, organic treats from Big Daddy Biscuits, I was eager to try them out.

The company is named for Big Daddy, an American Bulldog who was found wandering the streets of Atlanta, sick and malnourished. He's since been nursed back to health and loves "helping" his mom, Lauren, in the kitchen while she bakes up the biscuits. They're available in a variety of flavors including Crunchy Peanut Butter, Turkey Bacon Bites and Cheese Bites with Garlic.

First, I have to note that every single biscuit smelled totally appetizing -- and I don't even eat turkey! Stickers on the back of the bag provide information on the ingredients as well as the breakdown of protein, fat, etc. There's no question there about what you're feeding your dog. Secondly, my dogs gobbled them up. This isn't unusual for Rudi, but even Holly (our newest addition who tends to be a bit more wary around treats) wolfed them down and then continued staring at my hand, waiting for more.

If you're in the Atlanta area, you can find Big Daddy Biscuits at various stores and farmer's markets. Otherwise, you can order half pound bags ($8) and quarter pound bags ($4), plus other fun seasonal treats directly from their site. You dog will be glad you did.

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]]>big daddy dog biscuitsBigDaddyDogBiscuitsdog biscuitsdog treatDogBiscuitsDogTreatpet treatsPetProductsPetTreatsKristen SeymourFri, 19 Feb 2010 13:00:00 ESTThese Animals Really Have Heart!http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/these-animals-really-have-heart/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/these-animals-really-have-heart/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/these-animals-really-have-heart/#commentsFiled under:

It's always Valentine's Day for these animals. With their amazing array of all-natural body art, these dogs, horses, rabbits, manta rays and more show their love all year round!

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]]>animal markingsAnimalMarkingsanimalsheartheart-shapedheart-shaped markingsHeart-shapedMarkingsspotsKristen SeymourWed, 10 Feb 2010 16:00:00 ESTChameleons 101http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/chameleons-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/chameleons-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/10/chameleons-101/#commentsFiled under: , ,

LaertesCTB, Flickr

Name: Chameleon

Personality: Like being alone, are easily stressed.

Care: Creating the right environment for chameleons can be a challenge as they have very specific temperature and humidity requirements and trees are their natural habitat. Additionally, they need UV access (natural sunlight is ideal), plenty of privacy and a drip system or consistent mistings. (They don't drink water from a bowl.) A varied diet is best. Gut loading meal worms, crickets, wax worms and the like will help your chameleon get the proper nutrition.

Common Health Issues: Stress is a major problem for chameleons, but the right environment will help avoid this. In addition to proper temperature and humidity, be sure to keep the chameleon's cage clean, as diseases can spread quickly. Metabolic bone disease, parasites and respiratory problems are all common health issues for chameleons. Keeping a close eye on your chameleon and watching for any signs of distress (unusually sleepy, not eating) will help you detect problems before it's too late to treat them.

Training Tips: Some experts say that chameleons are better off with no direct human contact (or as little as possible), while others argue that, by handling your chameleon, you'll help it become less stressed at the sight of you. Try not to force it to do anything it doesn't want to do. Hand-feeding foods it loves is a good way to build trust.

Continue reading Chameleons 101

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]]>chameleonchameleon careChameleonCarelizardpet chameleonpet lizardPetChameleonPetLizardreptilesmall petSmallPetKristen SeymourWed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 ESTValentine's Weekend Travel: Take Your Dog With Youhttp://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/valentines-weekend-travel-take-your-dog-with-you/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/valentines-weekend-travel-take-your-dog-with-you/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/valentines-weekend-travel-take-your-dog-with-you/#commentsFiled under: ,

oliver dog on bedJohn Eisinger

Be honest, your (human) sweetheart isn't the only true love in your life. If you're taking a special trip Valentine's weekend, why not bring your precious pooch with you?

Kimpton's Vero Beach Hotel & Spa in Vero Beach, Fla., is offering a new package that's sure to get your dog's tail wagging: The Pooch n' Smooch package, which, for the Valentine's Day weekend, starts at $368 per night. (For non-holidays, peak season rates begin at $288 per night and off season rates begin at $198 per night. The package will be available through December 22, 2010.)

While the hotel property is always pet-friendly, the Pooch n' Smooch package makes your "ménage à paw" extra special by offering a Pampered Pooch Picnic at the Dog Park (with a basket that includes a picnic blanket, two wine spritzers, organic treats for mom and dad, dog treats, ball, collapsible dog bowl, and a clean-up bag); turndown amenity of Champagne and homemade doggie treats from local pet boutique Hearth & Hound; and a $5 donation to Indian River County Humane Society.

If that's not quite enough, you can purchase upgrades including a photo shoot with your pet on the beach ($75) and two Kimpton bathrobes and a dog bed ($300).

If this package doesn't quite tickle your fancy, don't worry; there are lots of pet-friendly hotels available for you to choose from!

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]]>dog-friendlygeo:27.6383+-80.397499geo:28.55302+-82.468201hotelhotel packageHotelPackagekimptonpet-friendlysmooch n poochSmoochNPoochvalentines dayValentinesDayvero beach hotel spaVeroBeachHotelSpaWhere:floridaWhere:vero-beach-flKristen SeymourTue, 09 Feb 2010 11:00:00 ESTBearded Dragons 101http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/bearded-dragons-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/bearded-dragons-101/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/09/bearded-dragons-101/#commentsFiled under: ,

bearded dragonFlickr/poplinre

Name: Bearded Dragon

Personality: Generally docile and gentle, though the extent to which they enjoy human interaction varies.

Care: Bearded dragons require a large tank with a screened top as well as proper lighting and temperature control (95-105 degrees Fahrenheit for hatchlings, 88-95 F for adults). They also need areas where they can hide in order to feel safe. They eat a varied diet, including crickets and worms, veggies and supplement powders for calcium and vitamins. They need clean, shallow water dishes, and you'll want to change the water daily.

Common Health Issues: This is a fairly hardy pet, but not entirely without health problems. Compaction, metabolic bone disease, mites, tail rot, and coccidia are all possible afflictions for which you'll need to watch.

Training Tips: The most important aspect of training is to teach your bearded dragon to be handled. While many are docile from the beginning, some can be more aggressive. Make sure that you're not always reaching into their enclosure with food in your hands. If your lizard associates your hands with food, he'll start treating your hands like food. Adults can be trained to sit calmly for long periods of time. Bribing them with treats, like wax worms, can be very effective.

Continue reading Bearded Dragons 101

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]]>bearded dragonsBeardedDragonslizardspet lizardPetLizardreptilessmall petsSmallPetsKristen SeymourTue, 09 Feb 2010 10:00:00 ESTWin a Fancy Feast Grammy Gift Package!http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/08/win-a-fancy-feast-grammy-gift-package/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/08/win-a-fancy-feast-grammy-gift-package/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/08/win-a-fancy-feast-grammy-gift-package/#commentsFiled under:

tabooWireImage

Celebrity cat lovers (like Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas, pictured left) got a real treat when they hit the gifting suites at this year's Grammy Awards -- posing for photos was Fancy Feast's famously fluffy white mascot.

But come on, we're talking about gifting suites. You know celebs weren't only stopping by for a quick pic with a famous feline. The stars also walked out with two luxury heart charms (one for the cat, one for her owner), a sparkling suede cat collar (perfect for the most fashionable feline), a FlipCam Mino for capturing special award-winning moments and, of course, an assortment of Fancy Feast Appetizers for cats.

This week, one lucky Paw Nation winner will win that same Grammy gift package!

To enter, leave a confirmed comment below telling us: If your cat was a music artist, which human performer would he or she most be like (and why!).

The comment must be left before 5 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 12, 2010.

You may enter only once.

One winner will be selected in a random drawing.

One winner will receive a Fancy Feast Grammy gift package, including two luxury heart charms (one for the cat, one for his or her owner), a sparkling suede cat collar, a FlipCam Mino for capturing special award-winning moments and an assortment of Fancy Feast Appetizers for cats (valued at $450).

Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.

Click here for complete Official Rules. Winner will be notified by e-mail, so be sure to provide a valid address!

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]]>catcontestfancy feastFancyFeastgifting suitesGiftingSuitesgiveawaygrammysgrammys gift packageGrammysGiftPackageKristen SeymourMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:00:00 ESTFunny Panda Video: Slide DOWN the Slide, Silly!http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/05/funny-panda-video-slide-down-the-slide-silly/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/05/funny-panda-video-slide-down-the-slide-silly/http://www.pawnation.com/2010/02/05/funny-panda-video-slide-down-the-slide-silly/#commentsFiled under:

Baby pandas are sweet, and sleepy pandas are adorable. But a video of a group of roly, poly pandas trying to go the wrong way on a slide? It's almost more cuteness than we know how to deal with. Can you handle it?

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]]>baby pandasBabyPandasfunny animal videoFunnyAnimalVideopandapanda videopanda videospandasPandaVideoPandaVideosslideKristen SeymourFri, 05 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST