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Adopting a new pet
Adopt rather than buy, and save a life!
by Paula Colvett
So you've decided to obtain a new pet for your household. Before you purchase a new pet, why not check out your area animal shelter or humane society? By adopting from a shelter, you not only save the life of the animal you adopt, but also the lives of all those animals awaiting a vacancy in the shelter so they will have a place to go. Here are some tips and tricks so that both you and your pet will be happy!!

Doggie Dress Up
Are you crazy about dogs.
Do you dress them up for Halloween, special events, and just because it's Tuesday? It's time you got out of the closet and declare to the world that you're crazy.
It's OK. We'll understand.
Don't believe us? Take a look!!
(and then send us a picture!)

"The Latchkey Dog"
by Jodi Andersen
hosted by Eva Spataro
Jodi Andersen has spent the last twenty years raising and training dogs.  She offers extremely clear and manageable, step-by-step instructions that will permit you to get your house back in order, while teaching your dog to be useful, working member of your family. We had the opportunity to ask Jodi Andersen about her wonderful book, tell us a bit about her approach to dogs and little bit about her dogs.

Joanne's Movie Reviews:
"Cats and Dogs"
by Joanne Spataro
Charlotte Observer Movie Critic
movie review
"Cat and Dogs" is a parody on the eternal struggle between dogs and cats. The Brody family doesn’t know that they are under siege by mischievous cats. The cats are planning to scratch out humans and dogs so they can rule the world. "Cats and Dogs" has something for everyone. There’s slapstick humor for kids, including dogs and cats comically crashing into trees. Find out more and see a trailer of the movie as well as the official website which is a lot of fun, too!!

The Showgoats
Vet-by-day, Musician-by-night
hosted by Joanne Spataro
Dr. Walker Meadows, a talented veterinarian, has a fun and unique hobby. When it’s time to call it a day, Dr. Meadows enjoys playing music in his band The Showgoats. It helps him unwind after his busy days taking care of animals. The Showgoats’ specialize in country tunes, complete with catchy lyrics and excellent music! Dr. Meadows was inspired to be a veterinarian when he was in high school. He was a stable hand for a carriage company. He enjoyed the regular visits a veterinarian made to check up on the horses. And so he became one.
about Dr. Meadows and "The Showgoats"

Games People Play
Unique Alternatives to Playing Fetch on Those Dog Day Afternoons . . .
by Cynthia Gallagher
Anyone who thinks dog ownership is easier than child rearing obviously never had to entertain two energetic boxers cooped up inside on a rainy day. For a breed that loves to run and frolic, high-speed chases around the sectional sofa hold their interest only so long. Made a desperate woman by two pairs of plaintive brown eyes, I thought back to the favorite games of my own childhood. The surprising results are guaranteed to wear out even the most active dogs, rain and/or shine.

Bosco's Coloring Pages:
"Puppy Summer" & "Birdhouse"
Take a look at our latest coloring pages which feature a coloring page with a cute puppy playing ball at the beach and a lovely birdhouse that you can print out and color. Better yet, print it twice and color your copy along with your child. It's a great way to spend a little quality time. Don't forget to check out our collection of birdhouses which you can make as well as our breed profiles, pet recipes and pet author interviews.

Meet the Author
The Labrador Retriever Handbook
by Audrey Pavia
hosted by Evamarie Spataro

Audrey Pavia is an editor, a writer, and above all, a dog lover. In this wonderful, comprehensive guide on Labrador Retrievers, The Labrador Retriever Handbook, she covers all of the basics of owning a Labrador and beyond. Learn more about this breed and don't forget to print our our Labrador coloring page for a fun way to share this with your kids. She is the author of many other books and you can also see interviews on some of her other books including: Horses for Dummies and Careers with Dogs.

Faces of Home Education Profile
"Lights! Camera! Guinea Pigs!
Films by Alyssa Buecker,
High School Homeschooled Filmmaker
hosted by Joanne Spataro, FreshAir TeenZine

Alyssa Buecker is an extraordinary teenager. She’s a very talented up-and-coming movie director, with a cast of unique actors. This home-schooler’s future as a director blossomed when she combined her love of directing and animals. Alyssa is the producer, editor, director, and writer for all her films! See a bit more on her unique films which have gained prominence at HBO, Nickelodeon and the Cannes Film Festival!!

Bosco's Coloring Pages
"Friendship"
We have great coloring pages that you can print out and color. See our latest holiday coloring pages and so much more. Better yet, print them out twice and color them along with your kids. Send them into us and we will put it up the website and you can share with everyone!!

Chocolate Carob Chip Puppy Cookies
Our dogs love homemade treats. They are simple to prepare and you will be your pet's best friend! Chocolate Carob Chip Puppy Cookies are a soft cookie that is easily made and eaten by your canine family members. Remember never to give your dogs any form of chocolate. Our recipe features carob chips, which are not chocolate, and can be bought at any health food store and large grocery store.

Meet the author
Caroline Coile, Ph.D.
"Barron's Guide to Dog Breeds"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
She was about nine years old when she changed from simply loving dogs to studying them. She is the author of many books on specific breeds in the "Barron's" and "Complete Idiot" series of books. She says, "The neat thing about dog breeds is that one breed really does not fit all. Some people who may even think they don't like dogs have very likely just not met the right breed for them. That was one of the reasons for writing this book." See pictures of her Salukis and and see our breed profile on this breed.

The Secret World of the Basset Hound
by Evamarie Spataro

Now you are ready to step into the secret world of the Basset. The Basset Hound was bred in France at around the 1500’s. The reason they are called "Basset" is derived from the French word "bas set ", which means low-set. So, in English, Basset Hound really means Low-set Hound. See more about this hound along with pictures sent in by our PetCorner members. Find out more and join our support group

Meet the Author:
Leigh Anne Jasheway
author of "Bedtime Stories for Dogs"
Interview & FREE excerpt
Leigh Anne Jasheway is the author of Bedtime Stories for Dogs. She is a humor writer with 8 published books, a humorous speaker, and a stand up comic is from Eugene, Oregon. She says, "And I loved writing in school -- specifically, poems and short stories. I write all kinds of things now from books to magazine articles to greeting cards to movie scripts. I like the freedom of expressing myself in many ways."
Find out more.

Joanne's Movie Reviews:
"102 Dalmatians"
hosted by Joanne Spataro
Charlotte Observer Movie Critic
"102 Dalmatians" is a double dose of family fun! A sequel to "101 Dalmatians," this new Disney flick will have parents and children howling with laughter. Glenn Close returns as the deliciously evil Cruella De Vil. "102" starts where the last movie left off. This is the perfect movie for the whole family. It has enough excitement and humor for adults and children to enjoy alike. See more about this film along with pictures and other fun ideas for the kids.

Meet the Author
Deb Wood
author of "Help for Your Shy Dog"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
see the interview, FREE excerpt, breed profile & coloring page
She spent two years researching scientific information about shyness, speaking with trainers and behaviorists, and talking with people who own shy dogs. She has created a practical "how to" guide to give owners of shy dogs the tools to help their dogs blossom. Get the tips on how to pick a dog and even deal with the "shy dog." Also see the breed profile for the author's dog, the Papillon with a fun coloring sheet too!!

Meet the Author
The Labrador Retriever Handbook
by Audrey Pavia
hosted by Evamarie Spataro

Audrey Pavia is an editor, a writer, and above all, a dog lover. In this wonderful, comprehensive guide on Labrador Retrievers, The Labrador Retriever Handbook, she covers all of the basics of owning a Labrador and beyond. Learn more about this breed and don't forget to print our our Labrador coloring page for a fun way to share this with your kids. She is the author of many other books and you can also see interviews on some of her other books including: Horses for Dummies and Careers with Dogs.

Faces of Home Education Profile
"Lights! Camera! Guinea Pigs!
Films by Alyssa Buecker,
High School Homeschooled Filmmaker
hosted by Joanne Spataro, FreshAir TeenZine

Alyssa Buecker is an extraordinary teenager. She’s a very talented up-and-coming movie director, with a cast of unique actors. This home-schooler’s future as a director blossomed when she combined her love of directing and animals. Alyssa is the producer, editor, director, and writer for all her films! See a bit more on her unique films which have gained prominence at HBO, Nickelodeon and the Cannes Film Festival!!

Bosco's Coloring Pages
"Friendship"
We have great coloring pages that you can print out and color. See our latest holiday coloring pages and so much more. Better yet, print them out twice and color them along with your kids. Send them into us and we will put it up the website and you can share with everyone!!

Chocolate Carob Chip Puppy Cookies
Our dogs love homemade treats. They are simple to prepare and you will be your pet's best friend! Chocolate Carob Chip Puppy Cookies are a soft cookie that is easily made and eaten by your canine family members. Remember never to give your dogs any form of chocolate. Our recipe features carob chips, which are not chocolate, and can be bought at any health food store and large grocery store.

Meet the author
Caroline Coile, Ph.D.
"Barron's Guide to Dog Breeds"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
She was about nine years old when she changed from simply loving dogs to studying them. She is the author of many books on specific breeds in the "Barron's" and "Complete Idiot" series of books. She says, "The neat thing about dog breeds is that one breed really does not fit all. Some people who may even think they don't like dogs have very likely just not met the right breed for them. That was one of the reasons for writing this book." See pictures of her Salukis and and see our breed profile on this breed.

The Secret World of the Basset Hound
by Evamarie Spataro

Now you are ready to step into the secret world of the Basset. The Basset Hound was bred in France at around the 1500’s. The reason they are called "Basset" is derived from the French word "bas set ", which means low-set. So, in English, Basset Hound really means Low-set Hound. See more about this hound along with pictures sent in by our PetCorner members. Find out more and join our support group

Meet the Author:
Leigh Anne Jasheway
author of "Bedtime Stories for Dogs"
Interview & FREE excerpt
Leigh Anne Jasheway is the author of Bedtime Stories for Dogs. She is a humor writer with 8 published books, a humorous speaker, and a stand up comic is from Eugene, Oregon. She says, "And I loved writing in school -- specifically, poems and short stories. I write all kinds of things now from books to magazine articles to greeting cards to movie scripts. I like the freedom of expressing myself in many ways."
Find out more.

Joanne's Movie Reviews:
"102 Dalmatians"
hosted by Joanne Spataro
Charlotte Observer Movie Critic
"102 Dalmatians" is a double dose of family fun! A sequel to "101 Dalmatians," this new Disney flick will have parents and children howling with laughter. Glenn Close returns as the deliciously evil Cruella De Vil. "102" starts where the last movie left off. This is the perfect movie for the whole family. It has enough excitement and humor for adults and children to enjoy alike. See more about this film along with pictures and other fun ideas for the kids.

Meet the Author
Deb Wood
author of "Help for Your Shy Dog"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
see the interview, FREE excerpt, breed profile & coloring page
She spent two years researching scientific information about shyness, speaking with trainers and behaviorists, and talking with people who own shy dogs. She has created a practical "how to" guide to give owners of shy dogs the tools to help their dogs blossom. Get the tips on how to pick a dog and even deal with the "shy dog." Also see the breed profile for the author's dog, the Papillon with a fun coloring sheet too!!

Brutus' Favorite Dog Biscuits
Kayla says, "My dog's name is Brutus. He is a medium sized mixed breed who showed up on our porch about a year and a half ago, when he was around 8 weeks old. It's always a bit of a chance adopting a stray, kind of like a box of chocolates (you never know what you're going to get), but he has been a great dog for us, very obedient and fun. I've attached a picture of him that you can use if you like. I have a dog biscuit recipe that I got from a coworker, I made them for my dog and he seemed to like them (OK, he loved them).

Joanne's Movie Reviews:
"My Dog Skip"
by Joanne Spataro
Movie Critic, the Charlotte Observer
review, pics & clips
"My Dog Skip" is an insightful movie about a boy who learns about life from his beloved canine. It's based on the autobiography of William Morris. "My Dog Skip" will appeal to families of all ages. Younger children will adore Skip. Parents and older kids will enjoy the gentle and dramatic story. Find out more.

Emma’s Peanut Butter Biscotti
by Emma Spataro
A Basset-American Chef

I just love baking Biscotti in the kitchen! As a Basset-American, I feel that we need to promote the cooking from our culture too. Although we are "opposably-gripped challenged", we can have a full cooking life too! My "thumbed" friend, Eva, has to help me open the refrigerator and turn the knobs on the stove. Anyway, I thought this recipe is really tasty and is great for a midnight snack!

FREE coloring page
Friendship

Teach your children about the importance of friendship and how we can all live together with this cute coloring page showing the friendship of a dog and a kitty.

Meet the Author
Audrey Pavia
author of: "Careers with Dogs"
hosted by Eva Spataro, creator of Pet Corner


She has been the editor of Horse Illustrated magazine, managing editor of Dog Fancy magazine, Senior editor of the American Kennel Club Gazette, and dozens of various articles on animals. She is the author of so many books about animals that it would be hard to list them all. She has written book about dogs, horses, guinea pigs and more.

Meet the Author
Deb Wood
author of: "The Tao of Meow"
hosted by Eva Spataro, creator of Pet Corner
meditation is not just for cats anymore
As author Deb Wood says, "Cats are perhaps the ultimate Taoists, and they teach us many of the philosophy's lessons....Cats are the world's most accomplished medita-tors. It is through the stillness of meditation that the exchange of qi is at its most effective....As I learned the lessons of Taoism, I realized that my animal companions were practicing the lessons of this gentle, nonviolent philosophy more than most humans were." Veteran trainer Deb Wood shares some of her insights about cats and life in a very stimulating interview.

Meet the Author
Sondra Clark
"Craft Fun With Sondra"
Over 55 arts & crafts projects with help from her mom Silvana Clark
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
Interview & FREE Excerpt
Sondra Clark has been doing arts and crafts projects for over half her life. She wrote the book when she was only eight years old. This is a great book for kids because the directions are not complicated and you can add your own creative touches. I had the opportunity to ask Sondra a few questions and we are featuring one of her crafts from the book, "Quilted Boxes."

Meet the Author
Jo Kittinger
hosted by Joanne Spataro
see the interview
Jo Kittinger is as curious about rocks, minerals, cats and dead logs as any of the other inquisitive children she writes for. She enjoys incorporating rocks and minerals into her everyday crafts, or to marvel at the breathtaking stone structures on earth. What makes her books so fun and informative is the spark and passion for what she writes. I think children will sense that same exuberance and will love her books.

Meet the Author
Audrey Pavia
author of "Horses for Dummies"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
see the interview
She is the author of so many books about animals that it would be hard to list them all. Today, I am looking at her book, Horses for Dummies and I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about horses and how much she loves them. I hope you enjoy the interview.

The First Days with Your Puppy
by Evamarie Spataro
Okay, you went to the puppy farm, and picked the best dog ever.
Good! Now what?
Learn more about correct potty training, grooming, the all important obedience training to get you and your puppy off on the right foot. (or is it paw?)

Breed Profile: Shih-Tzu
They are arrogant, spunky, alert and trustworthy with polite, careful children. These dogs are happy and hardy, and have loads of character.

Breed Profile: Bulldog
Reliable, affectionate, friendly - this is a wonderful pet and we have a great coloring page you can try out too!

Pictures you can print out & color
BirdHouse - Home Sweet Home
This is our latest picture which you can print out and draw. Add this to our many birdhouses that you can build from scrap items around the house and you have the perfect fun time for your kids.

Breed Profile
Labrador Retriever
Learn more about this breed and also print out a picture which you can color. Send a picture or drawing of your pet and post it on our cyber-refrigerator.

How I Chose My Puppy
By Evamarie Spataro
Picking a puppy is not as easy as you might think. The number one rule is, don’t pick the shy puppy. No matter how sad they look, they create trouble. The shy puppy generally will not want to be with you, and has a chance of getting aggressive at around two years.

Questions & Answers
Basset Hound Tips & Hot Diggity Dog
Do you have a question
for our primate and canine experts?
Stop by and see what's cooking?

How to Choose a Puppy
By Evamarie Spataro
Picking a puppy is not as easy as you might think. The number one rule is, don’t pick the shy puppy. No matter how sad they look, they create trouble. The shy puppy generally will not want to be with you, and has a chance of getting aggressive at around two years.

Now - how to I assemble those toys?
Lorrie sent in this picture of Cagney. Cagney is very busy on Christmas Eve wearing his glasses to read that small print on the instructions trying to put that bicycle together. Lorrie says, "He is a Brittany-Beagle mix, but of course a pure breed to us. He is 16 years old and has put up with this since he was a puppy."

Holiday Chi's
This is a neat collection of holiday pics from Sue showing off Bashy who is dressed in costumes that she makes herself. Featured here is the Christmas version and you can also see the Easter and Halloween incarnations. It's a lot of fun and perhaps you can send us a picture of your dogs!!

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Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
more Dog books
more Dog training books

The Basset Hound Owner's Survival Guide
more Dog books
more Animal books
FREE Breed Profiles

The Art of Raising a Puppy
more Dog books
more Dog training books
How to Choose a Puppy
Puppy Training

Introduction

The Dog's Mind:
Understanding Your Dog's Behavior
by Bruce Fogle, Anne B. Wilson

This informative book tells how the canine mind works. Well written, with bits of dry humor, it describes how a dog thinks and why it does what it does. Includes a section on how to train a dog to respond to simple commands such as "sit" and "stay".

The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care
by C. J. Puotinen

There are several books along the same lines, but this highly comprehensive and up-to-date holistic health encyclopedia for pets is the best. 500+ pages of info on feeding a raw diet, supplements, aromatherapy, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, flower essences, hands-on therapies such as acupressure and massage, holistic first aid strategies, cancer treatments, the vaccination controversy, interviews with several holistic vets, and an A-Z guide to ailments and their natural remedies. Excellent!

The Perfect Match:
A Dog Buyer's Guide
by Chris Walkowicz

The most authoritative book of its kind. Nearly 150 breeds are presented with a full photo for each and a complete checklist including personality and physical characteristics, as well as both positive and negative attributes. Never before has there been the depth of truth and authority that is given here, highlighting each breed's unique qualities along with a look at who should not own the breed. Photos.

Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
by Richard H. Pitcairn & Susan Hubble Pitcairn

A classic natural pet-care book from two celebrated veterinary specialists in chemical-free nutrition, treatment, and natural healing for pets, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats offers valuable natural and holistic advice on a host of pet topics, including, but not limited to, diet, exercise, environment, coping with a pet's death, and how to care for a sick animal.

The Basset Hound
Owner's Survival Guide
by Diane Morgan, Pam Posey-Tanzey

The Basset Hound is a breed with quirks galore that continues to attract thousands of devoted owners each year. New Basset owners need a book that will tell them how to take care of their pets particular, and often peculiar, needs. Long-time Basset owners will appreciate the humorous stories that are sprinkled throughout.