There are a couple events coming up that you may want to plan for. I know at my house, if I don’t plan ahead I’ll miss out on something special.

First, get your pets ready for their Holiday Portraits. On December 7^th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Shooting Stars Gallery will be taking Holiday Pet Portraits. The gallery is located at 118 North Main in Suffolk. Proceeds go to the Suffolk Humane Society. Trust me, these will look better than the ones I take with my little camera.

The Suffolk Holiday Parade is scheduled for December 13^th. Suffolk Humane is looking for people who have adopted a pet from them to walk in the parade. People and dogs can walk. If you adopted a cat or other pet, you can walk with a picture or sign. If you want to take part call 757-374-1476 or send an email to info@suffolkhumanesociety.

If you’re looking for a feathered friend, I know of some that need a new home. A friend of mine has parakeets and is looking for good homes. She has 1 older blue parakeet, 3 young green parakeets, and 1 young green with yellow wings. If you’re interested, send me an email at bigdogmom@mailpuppy.com.

I found some more recipes to share yesterday. These aren’t your typical treat recipes either. The first one is for people who love to feed the wild birds. Take 1 cup crunchy peanut butter and 1 cup lard and melt them in the microwave. Stir in 2 cups oatmeal, 1 cup flour, and 1/3 cup sugar. Pour into a 9 x 13 inch pan and put in the fridge until hard. After it is hard, cut into squares and store in the freezer until you’re read to use them. These won’t melt in warmer weather. You can also add small pieces of fruit and bird seed if you have any.

For all you horse lovers, here’s a treat for your equine friends. Take 1 cup oatmeal, 1 cup flour, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, ¼ cup molasses, ¼ cup water. Mix all these together. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Roll the mix into 1 ½ inch balls, or use a small ice cream scoop, and place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

After you put events on your calendar, have fun baking for your animal friends. These treats make good gifts for those “hard to buy for” friends too. They don’t cost much and they come from the heart. Anyway, have a great Thanksgiving!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

I’ve got a few more tips for holidays with pets. I know it will be kind of busy for the next five weeks or so. Hopefully these tips will help keep your pets safe.

Make sure your decorations are out of reach of your pets. Some of them may have loose pieces or material that could harm your pet. This is rather difficult at my house. We have flying cats that can get hold of almost anything they want.

Keep an eye on food gifts. Pets have a really keen sense of smell. If it smells good, they want to eat it. Some pets will even tear open the package to get to the food. I remember a dachshund we had when I was small. This dog opened a package so carefully we couldn’t tell it had been damaged. There was one small tear in the wrapping paper. She wanted the fruit cake that was inside and ate the whole thing. Needless to say, don’t put food gifts under the tree. Keep them on the counter and out of reach. Also, don’t let your dogs and cats get hold of nuts, garlic, onions, sage, and chocolate.

Watch out for ribbons and bows. They’re really pretty. Just don’t let your pets play with them. They can be harmful if swallowed.

Keep your normal routine when feeding your pets. Feed at the regular time with the regular food. It’s such a busy time that pets get as stressed as their people do. Keeping a routine will help them be less stressed and calmer. Like that’s possible with Macabee. He’s always excited about something.

I know pets are part of your family. Your guests may not agree. Find out what allergies people have before they come to your house. Also, find out if anyone is fearful of pets. It’s a good idea to keep your pets in a room or contained area when guest are there. It helps keep the pets safe from fearful people and rambunctious kids. And, it’s less likely they will escape though an open door.

Take a break with your pet. It’s important to spend some quality time with them. It eases your stress and anxiety as well as theirs. Go for a walk, play in the yard or give them a good brushing. It really does help to take a break with a furry friend.

That’s all I have for now. I hope everyone has a very Happy Thanksgiving.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

I told you yesterday about the Suffolk Grand Illumination Ceremony being on Saturday, November 21^st. Well, guess what? Today is the 21^st and it’s Friday. Days are going by faster than I can count. It will be 2009 before you know it.

Anyway, get out to the ceremony if you can. It’s at 6:30 at Market Park. And, make sure you get some snacks from the Suffolk Humane Society. The money goes to help the animals that will spend the holidays in the shelter. Better yet, adopt a pet or two so they will have a home for many holidays to come.

Speaking of snacks, here’s one for your pups. You know you’ll be sick of turkey by next Saturday. This is a good way to get rid of the leftovers and make your dogs happy at the same time.

Thanksgiving Turkey Treats

Ingredients: 2 c. cooked turkey, minced 4 teaspoons grated low fat cheese 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 2 eggs, beaten 2 c. whole-wheat flour 2 Tablespoons. brewer's yeast 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the turkey, cheese and parsley together. Pour beaten eggs over turkey mixture. Add flour, yeast and oil. Stir.

Drop into small lumps onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until brown and firm. Store in refrigerator.

Makes about 2 dozen treats.

I don’t have any brewer's yeast and usually leave it out. If you have some or know where you can get it, then leave it in.

Have fun tonight and stay warm!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

I came across these rules for how to behave at home in a newsletter and thought it was funny. Mac and Munch follow most of these rules already. You can find it at For the Love of the Dog, http://petloverstips.com/ForTheLoveoftheDog/jezzie-bruti/a-little-home-instruction-from-bruti

Barking

Dogs are expected to bark so you need to bark a lot. People love to hear you protecting their house late at night when they’re sleeping. It makes them feel secure to hear you bark.

Licking

Take a big drink from your water bowl right before you lick your person. They love clean tongues. Have a towel handy.

Visitors

Find out which visitor is really afraid of dogs. Run across the room barking loudly and leap on this person. If they fall down, lick their face and growl deeply to show your concern.

Holes

Humans get upset when they see a big hole in the yard. So, dig lots of little holes they won’t notice. There are never enough holes so you need to dig a few everyday.

Doors

Sleep right in front of the door. It’s reserved for you.

Sniffing

Humans like to be sniffed all over. Sniff them regularly

Dining

Lie right under the table to catch the food that falls on the floor. It’s good to do this when there are guests. You can practice your sniffing at the same time.

Newspapers

The newspaper in the driveway is there for you to go potty on every morning.

Housebreaking

Housebreaking is very important so break as much of the house as possible.

Walks

When you go for walks, never go potty in your own yard.

Couches

After your people go to bed, it’s okay to lie on the new couch.

Playing

If you lose your footing while playing, use the flower bed to break your fall.

Chasing Cats

When you’re chasing cats, never actually catch the cat.  It spoils all the fun.

Chewing

Contribute to the fashion industry. Eat a shoe. Make sure they aren’t matching shoes.

Like I said, Mac and Munch follow most of these rules quite well.

Don’t forget to vote at The Animal Rescue Site. Also, don’t forget to got to the Suffolk Grand Illumination Ceremony this Saturday. It’s at 6:30 at Market Park. Suffolk Humane Society will be selling hot cider, hot chocolate, and popcorn. It should be a lot of fun!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Thanksgiving is next week. Christmas is right around the corner. Your pets, like mine, will be right there underfoot. They’re trying to help catch all the goodies that fall anywhere near the floor.

In my house, those goodies rarely make it to the floor. So, are those goodies okay for your pet? I have a list of holiday tips from all over the place. At least this way you'll know what’s good for Rover and what isn’t.

1. A little turkey is okay for your pets as long as it is bone free and well cooked.

2. Have a little feast for your dog while you’re feasting. Stuff some turkey, a little gravy, and a bit of sweet potato inside a Kong toy. They’ll be occupied and happy while you eat.

3. Hold the stuffing! Stuffing has sage in it. Pets can’t have sage. It can upset the stomach and cause depression of the central nervous system.

 4. Keep batteries in a safe place. That means anywhere your pet can’t get them. They cause choking and obstructions. If they leak, they can cause chemical burns.

5. Keep up the exercise. It will help control the excitement and energy level. A tired dog is less likely to be too hyper.

6. Keep the lid on the garbage. All those good smells in the garbage can are too tempting for a lot of dogs and cats. Some of the things you use for cooking can be dangerous for you pet Keep them out of it.

7. Make sure your pet has an I.D. tag. They can slip out of the door so fast and get lost.

8. Be prepared. Have your vet’s number and the emergency clinic number handy. Also have the ASPCA Poison Control Center number handy too. It’s 888-426-4435.

 Hope these tips help. Cesar Millan has some Thanksgiving tips on his website too. It’s at

www.cesarmillaninc.com/tips/thanksgiving.php.

Don’t forget to keep voting for your local shelter. A lot of dogs and cats will be spending the holidays in a shelter instead of a nice warm forever home. Vote at www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces;jsessionid=9DBAB07034E1807DAD246366D486891F.ctgProd04?siteId=3&link=ctg_ars_home_from_ars_shelterchallenge_sitenav.

I’ll have more tips for Christmas. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

There are several events coming up for pet lovers. These might help you get in the Holiday spirit.

November is Adopt a Senior Pet month and Suffolk Humane Society s having an adoptathon. Check out the pets at Market Park on Saturday, November 15^th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Market Park is next to Seaboard Station Railroad Museum. Suffolk Humane Society will be selling hot cider and boxes of Krispy Kreme doughnuts for $8 a box. Yum! I’d go just for the doughnuts.

The Suffolk Grand Illumination Ceremony is going to be November 21^st. It’s going to be at Market Park and starts at 6:30 p.m. They’re going to light the Christmas Tree and sing Christmas Carols. It’s free and open to the public. Suffolk Humane will be selling hot chocolate, cider, and popcorn.

Do you need new holiday pictures of your pets? Shooting Star Gallery is doing Holiday Pet Portraits on December 7^th from 1 to 5 p.m. The Gallery is located t 118 North Main in Suffolk. Proceeds go to Suffolk Humane Society.

Suffolk is also getting ready for the 2008 Holiday Parade. Suffolk Humane Society is looking for people who have adopted a pet from Suffolk Animal Control to walk in the parade. If you have adopted a dog, you and your dog can walk. If you adopted a cat or other pet, you can walk with a picture or sign. The theme for the parade is Christmas on the Nansemond. For more info call 757-374-1476 or visit the website at www.suffolkhumanesociety.com.

Got cats? Think you know your cat? Take the kitty quiz at www.meomix.com. Click on the ad that says “Test your kitty knowledge.” There are 10 questions and you get a certificate.

I know you’ve seen the Angel Trees around town. PETA is looking for some Angels for Animals. These angels sponsor a specially designed and built doghouse for neglected backyard dogs with no shelter. These dog houses provide shelter from the wind and rain and snow. It may be the only shelter these dogs have. The doghouses cost $265 each and PETA volunteers provide fresh straw for each of them. If you can’t afford to donate the whole amount, get together with some of your friends and each donate part of the amount. This would be good for clubs or organizations to get involved with. Go to http://getactive.peta.org for more info.

Now you can get in the holiday spirit with your pets. If you get to the adoptathon Saturday, bring me back some cider and Krispy Kremes, okay?

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

I love fall. The trees are so pretty. The air is cooler but not cold like winter. I can get three dogs out of Munchkin’s fur. Oh, hold it. That’s the one thing I don’t like about fall.

Munchkin has an undercoat that doesn’t quit. She’s part Beagle and part Australian Shepherd. The fur just keeps coming. Mac has an undercoat too but it isn’t as bad. You don’t want to know about the fur I get from five cats. I could make a blanket or three.

Usually I use a Shed n’ Blade. They work great and don’t cost much. I’ve used one for years and recommend them to my friends. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis now and it’s getting harder to use a Shed n’ Blade. I just can’t do the short quick strokes to get the fur out without being in a lot of pain.

I got a chance to try a FURminator the other day. It was so easy to use. It’s a little heavy but you use long gentle strokes to get out the undercoat. That means my wrists and hands don’t hurt.

I tried it on Mac first. He doesn’t ever stand still for anything. He’s always wiggling around and he weighs 90 pounds. That’s a lot of wiggling. He actually stood still while I brushed him! I couldn’t believe it! Then I tried it on Munch, the Queen of Fur. She didn’t want to stand up to be brushed so I only did a little. She still didn’t stand up but, she wrapped her paws around my leg so I couldn’t go anywhere. I got ½ a dog out in the little bit that I did.

Then I moved on to the cats. They don’t usually like being brushed. Abby, the little feral cat, actually runs when she sees a brush. All five cats sat still and even rolled over so I could get to their tummies. I got a lot of fur out of them too. Hopefully this will help cut down on furballs.

This FURminator really works! It’s a bit pricey at $34.95 for the smaller ones. They have bigger ones for big dogs and horses. Those are more expensive. In all the years I’ve spent working with pets, I have found that good professional tools that last are a bit pricey. When Shed n’ Blades first came out, they were three times the cost of a cheap slicker brush. Wal-mart does have a generic deshedding tool for $20. It’s lighter and not as well made. It doesn’t have a guarantee either. FURminator has a 30 day money back guarantee. It even has it’s own patents.

The FURminator company has other products that help stop shedding. They have shampoo and a deshedding formula for $12.95 each. I haven’t tried them yet. They also have treats and supplements. Mac loves the treats. He even learned how to open the box to get them out.

I know times are hard, but your pets don’t stop shedding for that reason. If your budget is really tight, get a Shed n’ Blade. They work great. If you have the money and want a good quality tool, splurge and get the FURminator. I wouldn’t even bother with the generic one. They’re cheaper at first but, they end up costing much more in the long run. It’s better to just get the high quality tool. It will last longer and you won’t have to keep replacing parts.

You can get these tools at PetSmart, Petco, and other local pet supply stores. If you want more information, visit the website at www.FURminator.com. You can also order them through UPCO at www.upco.com.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Yesterday was Veterans Day.  Hope everyone took some time to remember all the veterans who fought for our freedom. You know we have four legged veterans too.

There are lots of dogs in the military on bases around the world. I use to know a USAF Security Police Dog named Bart and his handler David. He was well trained and did his job well. When he was off duty, he was a serious ball chaser and all around sweetheart. Bart has since passed on and David retired but I still remember them fondly.

Dogs in the military do dangerous jobs that people can’t do, like sniff out bombs and find drugs and weapons. They also help find and detain the enemies. People noses just aren’t good for that.

Johan the Dog has a website dedicated to the military dogs who work with service people and save lives. You can see it at www.squidoo.com/dogsofwar

Service and therapy dogs may not do what military dogs do but, they help our wounded soldiers deal with life after a serious injury. Many soldiers are disabled from wounds sustained during the war. Service and therapy dogs are specially trained to help soldiers cope with life that is changed forever. They provide assistance, comfort, and friendship that disabled veterans need. Johann the Dog has a website that honors these special dogs too. It’s at www.squidoo.com/dogs-for-veterans

There aren’t many horses in the military anymore. There use to be. There were over 200,000 horses and mules used in World War I alone. They were also used n WWII and Korea. They served bravely. Ammunition and supplies had to be moved and the horses got everything where it was supposed to be. Some were honored but a lot came to an undignified end. The have all passed on now. They are remembered in an article by Simon Rees. You can read the article at www.firstworldwar.com/features/forgottenarmy.htm

So, you see veterans can have two legs or four. Some don’t have any at all but they can have a four legged friend to help them through the day. Let’s remember all the veterans and their helpers this week. Veterans Day is a great place to start honoring these brave people and animals. I think we should do it more often. Thank you all so very much.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

I’ve got two things for you today. First is an event put on by the Friends of Virginia Beach Animal Control. The other thing is a cute list for dog lovers.

This Sunday, November 9^th, is Petalooza 2008. It’s free and open to the public. That means you and your dogs can go and have fun from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.. It’s going to be at the Princess Anne Middle School, 2509 Seaboard Road, in Virginia Beach. There’s going to be pet friendly vendors, K-9 demonstrations, a rabies clinic, prizes, and more.

There will also be pets there that need a forever home right now. Pets can’t stay in the shelter indefinitely. It isn’t good for them and the shelter needs room for more animals. You could come to Petpalooza and leave with a furry friend of your own! For more information, call Lori Logan at 757-318-0469 or visit the website at www.beachpetpals.org.

I got the following list from one of the newsletters I get. It’s cute.

Signs that your dog is a furry child:

1. You always carry a picture of your dog in your wallet, and you show it off often. (I just have a pin for my shirt with Mac’s photo.)

2. When buying a vehicle, you specifically shop for one that will comfortably accommodate your dog. (What pet parent doesn’t do this?)

3. Your dog has his or her own stocking and gifts under the Christmas tree. (Yeah…so?)

4. Before going out in the cold, you dress your dog in the proper gear. (Your point is?)

5. There is a seatbelt or car seat in your vehicle for your dog. (Isn’t there supposed to be one?)

6. You always keep dog biscuits in your purse. (Always.)

7. When cleaning out your pockets before doing laundry, you find doggie doo bags. (And hoof picks, braiding combs and treats.)

8. The plant life in your home includes pet safe plants. (It should.)

9. Your dog has birthday parties. (Again, your point is?)

10. Instead of the kennel, your dog goes to Grandma's house. (Of course.)

11. On the way to and from work, you stop at the doggie daycare. (Or work from home instead.)

12. Your dog has health insurance.(Yes.)

13. There are arrangements in your will for you dog. (Shouldn’t there be?)

14. You have been known to take your dog to the mall in a stroller or a papoose. (Mac won’t fit in those. Kiddie sneakers and a baseball hat make a good disguise though.)

15. Your friends threw you a shower when you got your puppy. (That was sweet!)

16. You've called off work because your dog is ill. (May need to go to the vet. Have to be ready.)

17. Spending quality time with your dog everyday is a priority. (Everyday!)

18. Kisses from your dog are not gross, they're welcomed. (Unless he’s been licking his backside.)

Hope you got a chuckle from this. I also hope to see you at Petpalooza. It should be a lot of fun.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

It’s finally here! I told you a couple weeks ago about Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. Well, it’s finally here. It runs from November 2^nd through the 8^th.

I know the people who volunteer at shelters put in a lot of time caring for lost, abandoned, and abused animals. It’s a hard job. The people who volunteer behind the scenes also put in a lot of time. Their job isn’t much easier. You just don’t see them as much. They keep things running though. Let’s show them all some appreciation for their time and work. Here are some things you can do.

Donate some food. You have to buy for your own anyway. What’s an extra bag every now and then?

Spread the word with email. Add a tag line to your email. Every time you send a message the tagline is there.

Adopt or foster an animal or two, or three. You can help animals find a forever home and help the shelter have more room for new animals.

Volunteer your time and skills to help shelter animals. All shelters can use more volunteers.

Support spay and neuter programs. Need I say more?

Donate dog beds and blankets. If you’re crafty, knit or crochet some blankets Lion Brand Yarn has some really easy patterns at www.lionbrand.com.

I.D your pet. Keep a collar and tags on your pet.

Add a banner to your MySpace or Facebook page.

Buy an item from your shelter’s wish list or send a bit of money or a gift certificate. Here’s a list of things every shelter can use: canned and dry kitten/cat food, powder or liquid puppy/kitten formula, biodegradable cat litter, stainless steel food and water bowls, litter boxes, laundry detergent and bleach, collars and leads, dog/cat treats and toys.

You can also sign a pledge to support your local animal shelter at https://community.hsus.org/campaign/sheltersrock.

Now, how would you like some free goodies for your pet? Here are some links to get free pet stuff.

Free Iams pet food

www.startsampling.com/sm/100325/captureAddress.iphtml?item=100325&source=scroller

Free Cesar pate food

www.cesar.com/register.aspx?promo=1

Free Greenies

www.greenies.com/en_US/FreeSample/

Free green bone

www.breathalicious.com/

Some of these require you to register or signup for a newsletter. Usually they have some good information for pet owners in them. You can always unsubscribe later.

So, have you been voting for your favorite shelter? Last I heard the Suffolk Humane Society was number 9in the state. If we keep voting, maybe they’ll get to the number 1 spot. Vote at http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/tpc/EEA_092908_ARSm

Show your local shelters some love and support. This is a year round need too, not just for one week in November.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.