Our Letter to Santa

Are you looking for the perfect gift for your furry family members?  Read our letter to Santa for some ideas for the perfect pet present!

Dear Santa,

Mom says we have all been good this year and so we will get Christmas presents.  We know that you don't bring presents for pets.  You are busy enough just making sure all the kids get their gifts.  But if you could somehow drop a hint to Mom about the gifts we would like, we would be happy!

1.  Austin and Angel love my official Traveling Bob dog collar.  They hope Mom will get one for each of them too.  It's nylon so it's sturdy and the buckles are adjustable for a perfect fit.

2.  If you haven't already gotten your pets a tag from Boomerang Pet Tags, now would be the perfect time.  These are the best dog tags available and the only ones Mom buys for us.  Since Angel is the newest addition to our family, she really hopes she is getting hers this Christmas!

3.  I'm hoping for a bag of treats from Bigwag Dog Bakery.  There is a little bit of everything so I get all my favorites in one place.

4.  Oscar loves chew sticks.  He would love some bully sticks from Best Bully Sticks.  These are pure beef and Mom says they are good for our teeth.

5.  Little Bitty Kitty is hoping for a new cat condo/scratching post like the Valencia Cat Tree.  This cat tree will give her the perfect place to climb and play and sharpen her claws.  I am hoping Mom doesn't get it for her.  Sharp claws on cats are not good!

6.  Iris is wishing for her usual gift - a bag of Greenies Feline Dental Treats.  She says they taste like chicken.  Mom says they are good for Iris' teeth.  Sometimes Iris will drop one or two off her perch while she is snacking and I will steal them.  They are pretty tasty!  I hope Iris gets her wish!

7.  Austin likes to look his best.  He also doesn't like the cold very much.  He is hoping Mom will get him a hoodie from the Travels with Bob shop.  These come in a variety of designs so Mom can get the perfect one.

8.  All of us dogs are hoping for a Zisc to play with in the back yard or at the park.  A Zisc is a flying disc that's specially designed to be gentle on our teeth and gums.  They come in large or mini sizes and are brightly colored so they can be easily seen.

9.  For JoyBelle, the best gift is a new bird for her to pounce on!  Mom buys her Showgulls to keep her happy.  They have lots of feathers and drive JoyBelle wild!

10.  All the cats love their fuzzy mice that Mom buys them every year.

Thanks for all your help, Santa.  We promise not to eat your cookies and the cats won't drink your milk this year.

Merry Christmas!

Bob, Austin, Oscar, Angel, Iris, JoyBelle, Little Bitty Kitty, Bubba, Duchess, Bogart, Cobweb, Puck and Peasebottom

               

Bob Recommends Eukanuba with 3D DentaDefense

Mom has been trying new dog food again.  I hate it when she does that!  It's usually something that's supposed to be good for me and you know what that means.  It will not taste good!  Mom is a BzzAgent. That's someone who gets to try products for free or at a reduced price and then share what she thinks about them with others.  Normally, it doesn't have anything to do with me, but this time they asked if she wanted to try the new dog food and of course, she said yes.

When she does try something new, I usually just don't eat it until she gets afraid I will starve and gives me back my old food.  But she said this new food was good for my teeth.  I have been to the dog dentist once before to have an abscessed tooth pulled.  It was no fun.  My mouth hurt.  I had to stay at the Dr. Karen's all day by myself.  And then Mom would not let me have a hamburger when she picked me up.  Plus I had to take pills for a while.  YUCK!  If this new dog food could keep that from happening, then I was willing to at least try it.

Mom started by mixing it with my regular food, but each day I noticed there was less of my usual stuff and more of this new dog food.  If this was a trick, it was working because by the end of a few days, all that was in the bowl was the new dog food.  And it actually didn't taste too bad.  I could eat this as long as I got an occasional burger or piece of bacon.

So I've been eating the Eukanuba 3D DentaDefense dog food for almost a month now.  So have Austin and Oscar.  Mom says my teeth already look better.  I don't know if that's true but I know that Oscar's breath has gotten a lot better.  I don't have to bury my head when he comes to lay by me!  Mom says that the Eukanuba dog food reduces stuff called tartar and plaque.  It's the tartar and plaque that make my teeth hurt and Oscar's breath smell bad.  Getting rid of them helps keep our mouths and teeth healthy.

Mom asked Dr. Karen about Eukanuba dog food and Dr. Karen said it was good for all of us.  She said she had heard about the new DentaDefense food and how it would help our teeth.  She also said Eukanuba was good for Austin because it had something in it called OmegaCoat which is good for his skin.  Austin has problems with his skin a lot so anything that can help him is good!

Mom has to go to the pet store to get this dog food, but she said she doesn't mind since it's so good for our teeth.  I'm just glad it may help cut down on trips to the dog dentist.  It's bad enough having to go for cleanings.  I don't ever want to have to get another tooth pulled.  Now with this new dog food, I shouldn't have to!  Thanks Eukanuba!

SpayArkansas' 5th Annual Silent Auction

Hello Friends of the Furried Ones!

Please mark your calendars on Sunday November 25 for SpayArkansas' 5th Annual Silent Auction 1 to 4 pm, at Arsaga's on Crossover & Mission, Fayetteville, AR. Music and wine and fun! Get your holiday shopping done early and know that all of your money goes to a good cause! They have done over 6000 surgeries so far, thanks to YOUR support!

There are lots of great donated items this year, including a guitar, some hand made hardwood bowls, some cool jewelry, all kinds of stuff and services...

Come join the party!

Welcome to Hannibal, Missouri!

I've been so busy sharing about Adopt a Senior Pet Month and Adopt a Shelter Dog Month that I have not had time to share our trip to Hannibal, MO.  It's actually been a couple of months since we went but Mom and I have been so busy, I am just now getting a chance to tell about it. 

We stayed at the Quality Inn and Suites.  It was a very nice hotel except that Mom did not like that they only allowed pets in smoking rooms.  Mom and Dad do not smoke.  But since we were already there, we just stayed.  Dad said we could look for another hotel, but Mom was tired.  The free breakfast made up for it as far as I was concerned because Mom was able to bring me back some bacon in the morning.  And it was very quiet so I was able to sleep all night and so was Mom.

It was late when we got there so we just settled in for the night.  There aren't any outdoor restaurants in Hannibal where I could go so Mom fed me (I always travel with my own food) and then she and Dad went out to eat.  They went somewhere for pizza because Mom brought me back a pizza crust.  I love pizza crust! 

The next morning we had breakfast (BACON!) and then we went to the Mark Twain Cave and Campground.  Dogs are not allowed in the cave but there was plenty to look at in the park and campground.  As always, I had to put Mom on her leash.  But I don't mind.  At least I know she can't get lost.

We spent a little time walking through the campground area.  Then dad had a surprise for Mom.  He had booked a trip on the Mark Twain Riverboat.  This unique riverboat has been offering excursions for over 20 years. I was hoping it was a dinner cruise but dogs are only allowed on board on the sightseeing cruises. Still it was fun.  Mom enjoyed listening the tour guide and I enjoyed the sandwich I shared with Dad from the snack stand!

After the cruise, we were supposed to go back to the room and spend another night.  But Mom just did not want to spend another night in a smoking room.  So we loaded up and headed home.  It was not as much fun as some trips I have been on.  But at least I had bacon and pizza so it wasn't all bad!

Support Your Local Animal Shelter

This week is National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week - a good time to support local shelters and rescue organizations.  Plus maybe a little extra for those in the northeast that were impacted by Hurricane Sandy.

Mom did some research and she found that there are approximately 3500 animal shelters in the U.S.  Together with local rescue groups, they provide safety and care for approximately 8 million homeless animals each year.  That means each shelter serves approximately 2200 homeless animals per year!

Many cats, dogs and other animals end up in shelters when their families can't afford to properly care for them, when families relocate and can't take their pets or when someone in the family is allergic, leaving animals of all breeds and ages without homes. If only given another chance, these animals could make grateful and loving pets.

Animal shelters and rescue groups not only provide care for animals that need homes, but many also assist in emergencies like Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy.  They need your support to be able to provide these programs. 

There are lots of ways you can support your local animal shelter! 
1. Adopt!  Give a pet a forever home and encourage your friends, relatives and neighbors to save lives by adopting pets.

2. Volunteer!  Most shelters and rescue groups have volunteer programs.  They can always use an extra hand. 
3. Give!  Donate funds or supplies. Shelters and rescue groups always need food, towels, blankets, rugs, toys and other supplies for animals.

4. Spread the word!  Tell your family, friends, and neighbors how they can help support their local animal shelter.

For more information about National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week, visit www.humanesociety.org/sheltersrock.

Facebook? Pinterest? Help Me Choose!

I have my own Twitter page.  Bet you didn't know that!  And I'm not the only one.  Many of my friends have one too.  Stinky Tinky Cat, Pixel, Brewskie Butt, and Woofie are just some of the ones I follow.  And Austin and I have a board on Mom's Pinterest page.

Mom also is on Twitter - and Facebook and Pinterest and LinkedIn and Digg and StumbleUpon - and many, many others. In fact, she is on so many of these sites I'm not sure she even remembers them all.  But I have noticed she seems to focus on a select few. 

I have been asking Mom if I should expand my networking also.  I like Twitter and have met lots of friends there, both of the 4-legged and the 2-legged variety.  But I would like to meet more.  I'm just not sure where to start.  I was sitting quietly during a meeting of Mom's mastermind group recently.  I was just quietly listening when the subject of social media came up.  It seems all Mom's friends have a favorite.  Mom is a huge Twitter fan. Linda loves Facebook. Jessie's new passion is Pinterest. And Mike prefers LinkedIn and something called Google+.  None of them are dogs though, so I'm not sure what works for them will be good for me.

So, here goes: Which social media site do you focus on and why? Is there a particular site you would like to see me on?  Answer by leaving a comment. Maybe you can help teach an old dog another new trick!  And if you aren't already, come follow me on Twitter. 

You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!

After many months of trying, I have taught my Mom a new trick!  She has learned to dance with me.  I like to dance  on my hind legs a bit when Reid is here dancing and Mom has FINALLY learned to dance with us.  Just goes to show you are never too old to learn a new trick!

I am a senior citizen. In dog years, I am older than my Baby Boomer Mom. I admit, that's a bit weird at times. But it's nice to know she's still young enough to take care of me!

Now that I am a bit older, I admit there are some things I cannot do as well as when I was a puppy. Mom needs to help me get up in my chair sometimes. And I sleep more now than I used to.  But there are some advantages to being older.  Mom seems to enjoy my company more now. She laughs at Austin's antics and likes to play with him outside and take him for walks. But in the evenings, she likes to sit in our chair and read or watch TV and I will curl up in her lap and just be with her. She will scratch my ears or sometimes give me a belly rub. It's pleasant to just spend quiet time together. Austin is constantly jumping up and down and Mom finally gets tired of it and tells him to stay down. But she seems to really enjoy having me laying quietly in her lap.

Now that it's getting colder at night, she often lets me sleep with her. We lay quietly next to each other snuggled under the quilt. Sometimes Dad's snoring wakes me up, but Mom will nudge him and he quiets right down. And sometimes Austin will try to squirm his way in. But he can't ever lay still long enough so Mom makes him sleep at the food of the bed or he would keep all of us (Mom, Dad, and me) awake all night.

I remember my puppy years. There was so much to learn. How to go outside so I didn't mess in the house. What toys I could chew on and some things (like shoes) are not chew toys. Mom was often stern with me while I struggled to learn the rules. Now I watch Austin going through the same thing and I am glad that I am old enough to know all the rules. I'm done teething so Mom and I don't have any differences of opinion over what makes an appropriate chew toy. And while Austin needs to run and play ALOT, I'm content to walk quietly with Mom or just sit in the sun on the porch with her or in our comfy chair. Being a older dog is much less stressful than being a puppy!

There are lots of senior pets in shelters all over the country that would welcome the chance to share their golden years with a special Mom and Dad. And there are lots of advantages to owning a senior dog. We are already grown so you know exactly how big we are going to be. We are done teething so you don't have to worry about us chewing up your favorite slippers - or the rockers on your antique rocking chair (sorry Mom!). Most of us have been housebroken already so once we know where we are supposed to go, there aren't the usual puppy messes to clean up. Some of us have even been trained to do other things. When Ginger came to live with us, she soon showed us that she had been trained to herd. She used that training to round up everything from grandkids to cats for Mom. Our older cats have years of experience hunting. So while neighbors complain of mice coming in their houses for the winter or finding snakes in their yard, Mom relaxes knowing that her four-legged mouse traps and snake deterrents are on the job. (I don't have any special tricks or skills, except dancing. I guess it's a good thing I'm so cute!)

At shelters, older dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be put to sleep. When you save the life of one of us senior dogs, you will be rewarded with unconditional love and devotion every day. If you don't believe we can know and express gratitude, just talk to someone who has adopted a senior pet.

Ready for some good senior pet companionship? Check out these programs that specialize in senior pet adoption.

Berkeley East Bay Humane Society
H.A.R.T. (Humane Animal Rescue Team),
Muttville
Peace of Mind Dog Rescue
Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends (AARF)
The Hinsdale Humane Society
Indiana Petite Paws Rescue Angels, Inc
St. Louis Senior Dogs Project
Senior Dogs 4 Seniors
Posh Pets Rescue
North Shore Animal League
Warwick Valley Humane Society
The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs (SSD)
Senior Dog Rescue of Oregon

Mom has said I can do something to help these adoption programs for senior pets!  How exciting!  We have a new design in my CafePress shop celebrating senior pet adoption.  And for item purchased we will make a donation to one of the shelters listed above.  Check out our Senior Pet Adoption design and let the world know that you can teach an old dog new tricks!

I'm Not The Only One

I am not the only dog with a blog of my own.  Lots of my friends have blogs too.  I love reading them with Mom.  I know you will too.  Here are some of my favorite blogs by and about dogs and other critters.

Take Paws: The official pet travel blog of GoPetFriendly.com.  Their latest post is announcing their weekly Friday Pet Photo Challenge.

Healthy Pet Food Guide:  Written by my friend Paul at Nature's Select Pet Food.  Mom and I read their latest post on Dogs and Thunder.  I HATE thunderstorms and we get a lot of them here in Arkansas. 

Best Bully Sticks Healthy Dog Blog: Best Bully Sticks are some of my favorite treats.  And I love their blog.  This week, they introduced a new treat that I can't wait to try - Pet Greens Snacks.  Yum!

Just Meowin':  Written by my friend Brewskie Butt, who is a cat, but I love him anyway.  His latest post is one of my favorites because it talks about an issue very important to me and Mom - pet adoption.  Stop by and read "It Really Sucks Being an Only Pet."

4PawsforAbility:  4 Paws for Ability is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to place quality service dogs with children with disabilities and veterans who have lost use of limbs or hearing; help with animal rescue, and educate the public regarding use of service dogs in public places.  Their blog keeps you up to date with all of their programs - like their 7 day cruise for 4 Paws families.

Aspen the Yorkie:  Aspen is a Yorkshire Terrier, just like Austin.  She writes a great blog with pet care tips and advice.  We loved her recent post on the Calm and Happy Cat Pheromone because anything that keeps our cats calm is a good thing!

The Critter Connection:  I discovered guinea pigs this year and absolutely love them.  I wish Mom would adopt one but she says 4 dogs, 9 cats, 2 raccoons, 1 possum and an aquarium full of fish are enough.  So I have to get my guinea pig fix by reading this blog.  Their latest post about what mites can do to a guinea pig almost made me cry.

Kansas Humane Society Blog:  Meet Ember. And Peaches.  And Grace and Martha.  And all the others looking for forever families at the Kansas Humane Society.

A Humane Nation:  Few are in a position to speak for the animals like Wayne Pacelle.  His most recent post is about the campaign against gestation crates.  I'm not sure what they are exactly, but I know I don't like being in my crate.  When Mom explained these to me, it sounded BAD. 





 

There's No Place Like Home

I want to tell you a story about a little dog. This dog was a good little dog. Yes, he chewed on shoes and piddled on the floor. But he didn't mean it. He was just a puppy after all. He wanted to be good. But the man and the woman who lived with him and his 4-legged mom said they had too many dogs already and that the little dog was too much trouble. So they took him to the animal shelter. The little dog was put in a small cage with no friends to play with and no one to pet him. He had food and water and sometimes he got to go outside and walk around, but most of the time he was in the cage - alone. It was very scary! Sometimes the people who worked at the shelter would come and get a dog for a walk - and the dog would never come back. The little dog heard that they were put to sleep. Sleep was good, but somehow sleeping and never coming back didn't seem right. The little dog worried that might happen to him and he was afraid. Sometimes, people would come in to the shelter and take a dog from the cage. These dogs also never came back. But the little dog heard that this was different. These dogs were going to new homes where they would be loved and be part of a family. The little dog wished every night that someone would take him home.

One day a man and woman came in to the shelter. They stopped at the little dog's cage and talked to him. The little dog sniffed at the woman's fingers as she reached through the cage. She asked if she could hold the little dog. When she picked him up, the little dog reached up and kissed her on the chin to say thank you for taking him out of the cage. The woman cuddled the little dog, looked at the man, and said, "I want him." That's was all it took! The little dog couldn't believe it. Someone was going to take him home.

In case you haven't figured it out, the little dog was me and the story is how my Mom and Dad found me at the shelter. I was lucky. I have lived here for 15 years and I am loved and cared for every day. I have food, and a bed, and toys, and playmates - I even have a cat. Mom helps me write this blog and holds me and takes me for walks and plays with me. I have a great life. But there are thousands of dogs and cats who aren't so lucky.

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.  So this month, I am asking you to think about adding a furry friend to your home.  If you have room in your house and your heart for one more thing to love, please visit your local animal shelter and adopt a dog.  Go to your local shelter, find the perfect dog for your family and give another little dog a forever home. 

In honor of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, Mom has helped me with a new design for my store.  And if you purchase one this month, we will donate 10% of the price to local animal shelters.  Visit http://www.cafepress.com/travelwithbob/9405409

Make the Promise!

Are you a responsible dog owner? Take the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise!

1. I will never overlook my responsibilities for this living being and recognize that my dog’s welfare is totally dependent on me.

2. I will always provide fresh water and quality food for my dog.

3. I will socialize my dog via exposure to new people, places and other dogs.

4. I will take pride in my dog's appearance with regular grooming.

5. I will recognize the necessity of basic training by teaching my dog to reliably sit, stay and come when called.

6. I will take my dog to the vet regularly and keep all vaccinations current.

7. I will pick-up and properly dispose of my dog's waste.

8. I will make sure my dog is regarded as an AKC Canine Good Citizen® by being aware of my responsibilities to my neighbors and to the community.

9. I will ensure that the proper amount of exercise and mental stimulation appropriate for my dog’s age, breed and energy level is provided.

10. I will ensure that my dog has some form of identification (which may include collar tags, tattoo or microchip ID).

11. I will adhere to local leash laws.

Post your name and your dog's names in the comments if you are a responsible dog owner.

SIGN THE PET PROMISE ONLINE AT http://www.gopetition.com/online/9290.html

For more information visit www.akc.org or call 212-696-8228.

It's AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Month!

People have embraced the joys of dog ownership for centuries.  Maybe even longer!  All sorts of people have owned dogs.  Presidents.  Celebrities.  Athletes.  Scientists.  And people like my Mom and Dad. 

Many dogs were originally used as hunters or workers.  We tracked game, fetched the kill, herded livestock, and guarded our master's family, home and possessions.  Today we also act as service dogs for the disabled, search and rescue dogs.  We help detect bombs and drugs, and serve as members of K9 police units.  But we mostly serve as companions for families.

The American Kennel Club - the nation’s largest registry and leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of purebred dogs – recognizes that canine companionship is not only a right but also a privilege that must be respected and nurtured.  In return for this privilege, dog owners need to respect reasonable, enforceable, non-discriminatory legislation governing the ownership of dogs,
such as local leash laws, curbing policies and licensing regulations.  And this is true not only for the families of purebred dogs, but for all dogs - even little dogs like me!

Each year the AKC® hosts Responsible Dog Ownership Days in September to educate the dog-loving public about the importance of being a responsible owner. Nearly 600 AKC affiliated clubs and other organizations around the country participate by holding events in their local communities throughout the month of September.

Whether you are looking to add a puppy to your family for the first time or are a lifelong dog lover, Mom and I encourage you to “bone up” on responsible dog ownership.  We invite you to celebrate AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days with us in September.  We'll be posting lots of fun and educational information for dogs and their families.  Come. Sit. Stay and learn what it takes to be a responsible dog owner. Your best friend is counting on you!

For more information about AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days, contact Stephanie Smith, Club Communications Manager.

Packing for a Trip

We are getting ready for a trip to Hannibal, MO.  Dad is all packed but Mom and I are still working on it.  Dad is laughing at Mom saying she always packs twice as much as she needs.  I don't know if that's true, but Mom does always have the biggest suitcase.  Maybe she should make herself a packing list like mine.  Everything I need to travel fits in one suitcase, except my food and water.  Mom puts that in a separate box.  What's in my suitcase?  Here's my list!

1. My Leash - almost every city has some sort of leash law so bring it along unless you want to spend the entire trip in your crate in a hotel room.

2. My Collar with ID Tags - just in case you get lost, your ID tags should help you get home. Mom got me a microchip, but if you don't have one, you definitely want the collar and tags.

3. Food and Water - who knows what the local food and water may be like. Bring your own!

4. My Dishes - you'll need something to eat and drink from. Bringing your own dishes will also make strange places seem more like home.

5. My Blankie - I always sleep better with my favorite blankie!

6. Pooper Scooper - it's just polite to clean up after yourself.

7. My Favorite Toy - sometimes traveling can be stressful. Having my favorite toy along with my favorite blankie is comforting.

8. Copy of Pet Health Certificate or Shot Record from your Dr. Karen - just in case you do get sick or hurt, this will help the vet give you the best care.

9. My brush - so I always look my best!

10. Carpet deodorizer or Cleaner - just in case. I'm a good dog, but accidents do happen!

That's it! Sometimes she brings some extra things like my carrier, or my toothbrush, or some treats. But this is the basic list. I even have my own little travel bag to pack everything in. Put together your own list using mine to give you some ideas. Then tell your mom and dad that you're packed and ready to hit the road!

Kansas Humane Society Has a True Vision for the Future

To end the euthanasia of all adoptable animals by 2014.  That's the vision of the Kansas Humane Society.  Wouldn't that be wonderful?  A world where no little dogs (or cats) had to worry about being put to sleep? 

We had the opportunity to visit them while we were in Wichita.  They provide a wide range of services dedicated to helping homeless animals.  Mom and I were pretty impressed and we want to share their story with you.

The Kansas Humane Society is a private, non-profit organization that receives nearly 17,000 animals each year from citizens unable or unwilling to care for them. They receive no local or state tax dollars, United Way funding, or support from the Humane Society of the United States and depend entirely on private donations and adoption fees. They are Wichita's largest, privately-funded, non-profit animal shelter.  Not only do they provide adoption services, they also provide spay/neuter services, dog training classes, education programs, and programs for kids. 

The Kansas Humane Society has a good adoption record.  Part of the reason is their Meet Your Match program.  By evaluating the personalities of their adoptable pets and then matching it to potential forever moms and dads, they increase the chance of successful adoptions.  This program is available for both dogs and cats.

I know - not everyone is a dog or cat person.  Hard to believe, but it's true.  But you are in luck because the Kansas Humane Society also has small animals for adoption.  There are rabbits, guinea pigs (my new favorite pet), rats (?), and even gerbils.  Something for everyone.  Even rats need love.

One of their education programs got Mom's attention.  They have a Pet Pals Patch program for Scouts.  My mom used to work for the Girl Scouts so she was very interested in this program.  She said she wished our animal shelter here had something similar.  Maybe she could help them start one.  Wouldn't that be a great idea?

A world where no homeless pets are euthanized.  Or better yet, a world where there were no homeless pets.  That's our dream.  But until then, I am glad there are places like the Kansas Humane Society watching out for us.  Please visit them, support them, and adopt a forever friend from them today.


 

It's 100 Degrees in the Shade!

It's been so hot here lately, I haven't felt like doing anything.  Mom says it's been 100+ degrees.  I don't know what that means.  I just know it's hot!  Thankfully, I am an inside dog (most of the time) so I can relax inside where it's cool.  I've spent the last few weeks just laying on my bed or sometimes out on the porch when Mom is trying to keep the garden from getting all dry and brown.  But Mom decided yesterday that I had been lazy enough and so we went for a walk.  That's when we saw the others - two dogs that had been left outside in the heat.  These dogs had been abandoned when their owners moved out of the house we passed.  They were just left there with no food or water.  I'm sure they probably caught a squirrel or rabbit or bird to eat.  But Mom says all the time there is no water out here.  That's why we keep bird baths and saucers of water outside when the summers are extra hot. 

These dogs were left behind and were in pretty bad shape.  I know most of my friends wouldn't do that to their four-legged family members.  But just the walk got me hot enough that Mom carried me part of the way back home.  I didn't realize just how fast a dog can get into trouble from the heat.  And so I decided I needed to remind everyone that extreme heat can be dangerous to the fur babies!  Every year dogs tragically die in hot vehicles or end up at the vet with sunburn or heatstroke.  Please don't let your dog be one of them.

Here are some tips for helping your dog survive the summer heat:

1.  Don't leave your dog in the car.  You know I go almost everywhere Mom goes.  But not now.  It's just too hot.  Mom said that on 100 degree days, her car can reach 120 degrees or more inside.  That's like an oven!  Even if you are only planning to leave your dog for a few minutes, don't.  Leave them at home.

2.  Don't let your dog sunbathe.  Our dog Beauty was a sunbather.  She loved nothing more than laying out in the warm summer sun.  But dogs can sunburn just like people.  Mom did not know this when we first moved here.  And so Beauty was left to enjoy her sunshine.  Only Jack Russell's don't have thick fur and she got a nasty sunburn.  I have seen Mom wince when she had one so I can imagine it was just as painful for poor Beauty.  Beauty is gone now, but Mom learned the lesson.  If we are going to be outside for a long time, she puts sunscreen on our most vulnerable areas, just like she does Carter, Morgan, and Reid.  In fact, we use the same sunscreen.  I guess if it's good enough for the dogs, it's okay for the grandkids.  Mom puts it on our ears and on the bridge of our noses and around our eyes.  Sometimes she even puts it on our tummies, but that usually means we are going to be outside for a LONG time.

3.  Provide plenty of fresh, cool water.  Mom has several big jugs she fills with water and then turns them upside down in our water bowls.  Automatic waterers, I think she calls them.  These hold enough water for me, Austin and Oscar, and the cats for the whole day.  Nothing tastes better than cool water on a hot day!

4.  If you must take your dog outside for exercise, avoid the hottest part of the day.  Mom and I go for walks or out in the garden either early in the morning or later in the evening after she has fed Dad.  Stay out of the midday sun.

5.  Consider giving your dog a haircut.  I am a short haired boy so I don't have a problem.  But Austin is a Yorkshire Terrier and has lots of long hair.  In the summer, to help keep him cool, he gets what Mom calls his "puppy cut".  (That means she cuts his hair short like mine.  He looks a little funny but he sure seems happier - and cooler).

6.  Watch where we walk.  You wear shoes.  We don't.  Have you ever burned the bottom of your feet?  It hurts!  Don't make us walk on hot sidewalks, driveways, or sand.

Summer is here.  That means lots of BBQs and trips to the beach and days out in the boat.  We want to share it with you.  Just follow these simple tips and we can enjoy the "dog days" so summer too!

Singing for Spays

Hello Animal-Loving Community!

Time again for the Singing for Spays Picnic hosted by SpayArkansas.  Please look/print/share etc. our adorable attached poster for this event.  For the basics, keep reading...

When: Sat, June 16, 6:30-9:00pm, rain or shine
Where: Dog Party USA (912 S. Maestri - Hwy 112 -  Tontitown, AR)
What: BBQ chicken, hot dogs, beer & wine.  Music by the Shulertown Band. Vaccinated and dog-friendly dogs welcome: wading pool!
Why: To celebrate NWA Spay/Neuter Clinic's first year with 5000 surgeries!  To fund our goal of NO MORE HOMELESS PETS!
Details: $20 per person, dogs free. (cash or check, please)

Welcome to Wichita!

Neither Mom or I had ever been here before, but Wichita, Kansas was a great place to visit.  Mom went to see Morgan dance - she is a good dancer!  Dad and I came up later that weekend so we could spend some time with Mom and Morgan.  It was a fun trip with just us guys driving up.  Mom left the new Jeep home and rode with Morgan so Dad and I got to take it.  It's the first time I got to ride in the Jeep.  Darn thing is so big, Dad had to lift me up in my seat.  But I like it!

We stayed at the Hotel at WaterWalk.  It's conveniently located in downtown, only a few blocks from Century II where the dance contest was being held.  The room was comfortable and it even had a fireplace.  I almost wished it was colder so Mom would make a fire.  There is nothing like sleeping in front of the fireplace on a cold night.  But the bed was the most comfortable I have ever been in - besides my own - so I had to settle for that.

After giving Morgan some congratulatory nose kisses (Hip Hop Cuties won first place!) Mom, Dad and I went to Sedgwick County Park.  It has lakes, and a playground, and even a place to go fishing.  Dad loves to go fishing but he didn't want to go this time.  We just walked on the paths and enjoyed the sunshine.  Mom, Dad and I have not all had time to go for a walk together in a while so it was nice.

After that, we went walking through Old Town Wichita.  Mom loves old buildings and the old brick warehouses here seemed to interest her.  I'm don't care much about old buildings.  But I did enjoy walking some more with Mom and Dad.  I am getting old so I was able to convince her to carry me for part of our walk.  I liked that a lot!

We had to head for home after that.  It's a bit of a drive.  But we stopped at Jason's Deli on the way.  I worked up quite an appetite after all that walking.  Mom usually shares her lunch with me - at least a bite - but this time she had something called a Zucchini Grillini.  Zucchini, spinach, and olives - yuck!  But she liked it.  Dad had a California Club.  I got to have a bite of that and it was okay.  Fortunately, Dad remembered to pack my food and some snacks before we took our trip.  But I am going to have to talk to Mom before we travel again.  She needs to remember that when we are eating on the road, she is ordering for two!

Go Orange for Animals!

Have you noticed something different about my blog?  It's ORANGE!  That's because I'm Going Orange for Animals!

Every April, the ASPCA celebrated Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.  I know about animal cruelty.  We live on a dirt road, all the way at the end.  Lots of animals are dropped off out here by people who don't want them.  Mom and Dad find a lot of them and try to help them.  We have found kittens with their tails cut off, dogs with gunshot wounds, dogs and cats that were beaten, some that were starving or sick and just left to die.  People can be very mean to little animals like me.  So each year, the ASPCA urges supporters across the country to “Go Orange for Animals” throughout the month of April—when the ASPCA’s charter was signed in 1866—to raise awareness for their cause.

It’s fun to go orange! Orange is a great color! Austin has an orange bandanna that Mom bought him.  And the ASPCA has some great ideas and suggestions on how you can go orange too!  What can you do? 

Support Your Local Animal ShelterCoordinate a ”Go Orange for Animals” event with a local animal welfare group or shelter of your choice and donate the proceeds and/or supplies that you collect. Be sure to alert local media about your event! Possibilities include decorating the building orange and holding an adoption event or donation drive. To find a shelter or rescue group near you, visit our shelter database.

Tie One (or Two!) On Decorate with orange bows, ribbons and lights. They’ll look great wherever you put them—on trees, your house, over your office door, hanging from your dashboard, on your pooch, even in your hair!

Pimp Your Ride 

Vroom-vroom for animals! Write some animal-friendly messages on your vehicle— “Go Orange for Animals!” or “Celebrate Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month!” Most auto parts stores sell specific window-marking chalk for writing on your windows. You’ll be surprised by how far a little creative writing can go to help animals!

Play Dress-up 

Open your closet and get out those bright orange pants, shirts, ties, shoelaces and socks and don them every Friday—or any other day of the week—for the month of April.

Sweet Treats 
Organize an orange-themed bake sale for animals at your local shelter or rescue group. Make orange cupcakes or cookies, or even cookies in the shape of cats and dogs wearing orange frosted collars! Set up a table at your school, church, local library, club or office and let people know their purchase of orange deliciousness will benefit animals for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month! You can also persuade your local bakery to create special orange baked goods and ask if it might donate some of the proceeds to animal welfare efforts.

Show Your Virtual Support 

Dedicate your Facebook status, Twitter or blog to the ASPCA during the month of April and encourage your friends to spread the word about the month-long “Go Orange for Animals” campaign!

Grow Orange 

Got a green thumb? Plant an orange garden for animals. Ask your local garden center what orange flowering plants work best in your area, and do some creative landscaping. Trim your shrubs into animal shapes, and decorate them in orange bows or lights. No garden? Try window boxes or flowerpots, but do let people (and the media) know that your orange garden is all for and all about animals. Mom went shopping today and found all sorts of orange plants for our garden.  It's going to be great when she gets them all planted!

Become an Animal Activist 

Visit the ASPCA's Advocacy Center to find out everything you can do to raise awareness for animal rights.

Call or write your local law enforcement officials. Let them know that animal cruelty is a crime and investigating these cases should be a priority.

Help fight for the passage of strong anti-cruelty laws on federal, state and local levels by joining the ASPCA's Advocacy Brigade.

Write a letter to the editor of your local or regional newspaper, reminding them that April is “Go Orange for Animals Month.” Be sure to include a heads-up about your “Go Orange” plans. You can also contact TV and radio stations, letting them know about your event and inviting them to add their unique efforts to the “Go Orange for Animals” campaign.

Mom is going to look for orange collars so Austin, Oscar, and I can wear them.  I am glad she is not going to make me wear a bandanna like Austin.  But an orange collar would be cool!

Blog, Post, Tweet, Pin!
If you have an online site, spread the word about Go Orange for Animals!  Spread the word on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn! Turn your website orange this month.

Mom and Dad have been able to save many of the animals they find.  But many more have suffered and died just because someone was mean to them.  Won't you help us fight animal cruelty?  Go Orange for Animals!

Their Goal is to Put Themselves Out of Business!

As always, whenever we visit a new city, we check out a local animal shelter.  I have been blessed to find a forever family that loves me.  And it is my mission to help as many other shelter animals find a home as possible.

Our trip to Omaha was no different.  While there we visited the Nebraska Humane Society.  The Nebraska Humane Society was founded in 1875 and is the fifth oldest Humane Society in the United States!  They were originally established for the protection of both animals and children. In the mid 1940’s, state agencies began to embrace child welfare issues, leaving the Nebraska Humane Society as the sole organization within the Omaha area designated for the protection of animals.  They provide education, give sanctuary to animals, encourage adoptions and promote responsible pet ownership.

The Nebraska Humane Society is unique among animal shelters. In addition to taking animals whose owners can no longer care for them, they provide animal control services for the Omaha Metro area. That means they are the facility that houses all animals with nowhere else to go.  And they are so good at finding homes for these animals that they have not had to euthanize an adoptable dog for lack of space in several years!!  How cool is that?! 

The Nebraska Humane Society has a variety of animals available for adoption.  For example, there is Cowboy, a neutered male, brown Pekingese mix. Shelter staff think he is about 3 years old.

There is also Taylor, the cat.  Taylor is a neutered male, orange tabby Domestic Shorthair mix.  He looks a lot like our cat Marmalade.  Maybe they are related!

They even have guinea pigs, Peter Pan and Tinkerbelle.  I just recently found out about guinea pigs and have added them to my list of furry friends.  I still don't understand how such cute little critters wind up in shelters.

For Moms and Dads who want a bigger friend, the Nebraska Humane Society also has several horses that need forever families.  They don't stay at the shelter though.  You will have to make
special arrangements to meet them.

The Nebraska Humane Society says that they have a goal of one day putting themselves out of business.  Wouldn't that be wonderful?  Until then, please stop by and visit - either in person or online.  Tell them Traveling Bob sent you!   

A Dog's Day in Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha, Nebraska.  A great place to explore – and eat – and play.  All of my favorite things.  What little dog could resist the chance to spend a day there? 

Of course the first thing we always want to do is find a place to stay.  I do enjoy my naps and I need a nice, comfortable place to cozy up with Mom after a long day’s adventure.  Our choice was the  Holiday Inn Express Omaha West.   It’s pet friendly, smoke-free, and the beds are SOOOO comfortable.  We had a room in the back so I could look out the window and see trees.  It was just like being at home.  Well, almost.

Once we settled in, Mom had a couple of people to visit.  Then the rest of the day was ours.  First we went to The Green Spot.  Mom and Dad had coffee and I met some new friends.  Mom bought some treats for me too.  She said they were healthy and organic.  All I know is that they were delicious!

After coffee and treats, Mom wanted to do a little shopping so we went to Old Market.  Mom wanted to check out the Tannenbaum Christmas Shop.  Dad is not a big fan of Christmas decorations.  He just likes the presents.  So we waited outside since I was not allowed in the store.  Fortunately, Mom didn’t take too long this time.  Sometimes when she gets browsing in a new store like this she can forget that Dad and I are waiting – especially if it’s a book store. 

After shopping, I needed some time to just walk around so we went to the Heartland of America Park and Fountain.  It’s a great place to stroll around.  Dad stopped to get us some sandwiches and drinks on the way and we had a picnic in the park.  Dad really liked the fountain with the light show.  He said it reminded him a little bit of some fountain in Vegas.  And I even saw deer!  I had to stay on my leash, so I couldn’t chase them.  But I am not allowed to chase them at home either so I didn’t mind.  I did bark at them – just a little.

After our busy day, we went back to the room to rest and have dinner.  Dad and Mom stopped at Upstream Brewing Company to get food to take back to the hotel.  They do have outer tables, but Mom was too tired to ask if I could sit at them.  So they just got takeout so we could eat and rest before driving home in the morning.  Mom had a Reuben Sandwich and Dad had a Brewer’s Burger.  They were both delicious.  I know because I had a bite of each along with my own dinner.  I got to have a couple of French fries too and they were yummy!

Good food, great place to stay, and things to do that even I can visit.   I like Omaha.  I hope we can go again soon. 

House Rabbit Society focuses on "partner adoptions," urges people to consider adopting a buddy for their bunny."

House Rabbit Society (HRS), an international nonprofit animal rescue and education group,is celebrating February as "Adopt-a-Rescued-Rabbit Month."

Mary Cotter, Marketing/Education Director of the Richmond-based HRS says the organization will focus on partner adoptions during this special month: "Many people feel guilty leaving their companion rabbit home alone all day, when they are at work. Adopting a partner bunny is the perfect solution. It's not only good for your bunny; it's good for you!"

According to Cotter, two bunnies are not twice the work of one, as long as they are bonded. "They share living quarters, food and water bowls, and even a litterbox - so the cleanup is essentially the same. And the bunnies entertain one another, groom one another, and keep each other company when their humans are not at home."

"Introductions need to be done carefully," says Margo DeMello, President of HRS, who lives with a group of bonded rabbits herself. "Rabbits typically can be aggressive when first introduced, and injuries can occur if they are not properly supervised." She cautions that both rabbits must be spayed/neutered, not only to prevent breeding and health problems, but also so that their behavior toward one another is not determined by "raging hormones."

"Rabbits, like people, need time to work out their relationships," adds Cotter. "But a patient human caretaker will be well-rewarded: once they are bonded, there is just nothing more heartwarming than watching a bunny couple snuggle up to each other and kiss each other's faces."

HRS has chapters and representatives across the United States, as well as overseas, and most chapters offer bonded pairs for adoption, as well as single rabbits who can be bonded to a rabbit-in-residence. Many people new to rabbits prefer to start out with a single rabbit, and adopt a partner bunny at a later time.

"Adopters are welcome to contact any of our chapters at any time, for help in adopting or bonding rabbits," says DeMello. "And there are several internet groups where bonding advice from HRS volunteers is also available, including a group dedicated to this topic only: groups.yahoo.com/group/bunbond/."

The mission of HRS is twofold: to educate the public about these often-misunderstood companion animals, and to help rescue and "re-home" domestic rabbits. HRS advocates spaying and neutering rabbits - both for health reasons and also to help put an end to the animal overpopulation problem.

For more information on Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month, log onto House Rabbit Society.  To find out more about adopting a rabbit, contact your local shelter or your your nearest HRS chapter. For more information on House Rabbit Society's rescue and education work in your area, please call House Rabbit Society at (510) 970-7575.

Happy "Mew" Year!

Happy "Mew" Year to all our friends - furry and not!  Bob is sleeping after a busy Christmas season so Mom let me sneak in a post in his place. 

We have been very busy over the past several months.  Bob, Austin, and I have been "helping" Mom work on our new website.  It will be finished soon.  I can't wait for the official unveiling.  Plus Bob has several new T-shirt designs that he will be adding to his store. 

We had a wonderful Christmas.  All the dogs got new chew bones and treats.  And we cats got new toys.  I am glad that Mom remembered to get me more fuzzy mice.  My old ones were pretty chewed up.  Fuzzy mice are the best playthings ever! 

Bob also got a leather "biker" hat and bandannaa.  Mom said it's for pictures for a new T-shirt design.  Can't wait to see that.  Bob thinks he looks cool, but I think he just looks silly!

Now that the holidays are over, I am glad that we will have some time to rest and relax.  It does get cold sometimes during the winter here in NW Arkansas.  I am looking forward to some nights curled up in Mom's lap by the fire.  I may have to push Bob and Austin out of the way, but some well-placed claws in the right spot might help convince them to share some space. 

Mom has been spending the last few days finally getting all her pictures from the camera to the computer.  That's exciting because now we can share photos of the rest of the family.  Mom is not good about pictures.  She takes them, but then she never does anything else with them.

Dad has been working on a new sunroom for us.  Mom thinks it's for her, but I have already claimed one of the windows for myself.  That leaves a few other windows but I don't think there will be one left after the other cats stake their claim. 

Speaking of the sun, I see a a nice ray of sunshine on my favorite spot on the porch.  And it's perfect porch-napping weather - not too hot and not too cold.  I will have to go let Mom know I want to go outside.  

Have a Happy "Mew" Year from all of us - Iris (that's me), Bob, Austin, Oscar, Ginger, Bitty Kitty, JoyBelle, Buddy, Bogart, Cobweb, Gremlin, Bubba and Duchess!