Little Pampered Dog Podcast

Julie Duncan always wanted to write a children’s book. In fact, she planned and plotted many books throughout the years. What finally led to her first publication? Her son and his dog Ike.

It took her son’s persistence and hard work to finally bring Ike, a beautiful Bichon Frise and Poodle mix into the Duncan household. The bond that Julie’s son Stephen and Ike share inspired the book.

The most important thing that Julie wants kids to come away with after reading the book is the importance of taking care of one’s pet.

However, this early reader teaches more than just responsibility for our furry family members. The book teaches the difference between verbs and adverbs. For the reluctant reader, there’s the addition of finding the hidden dog treat on each page to keep the child moving forward and enjoying the book.

The book is currently available on Amazon.

Meanwhile, Julie has signed a copy of the book for a giveaway to one of our lucky Little Pampered Dogs and their humans. Hurry! The giveaway ends soon. There’s no cost to enter and your chances are excellent!

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Ike Skips’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 03/11/2021 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 03/18/2021 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Little Pampered Dog (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of United States who are 18 Years or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 72 Hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 72 Hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) Paperback Book Titled “Ike Skips” by Julie Duncan] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $$10.00)

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within United States. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at https://littlepampereddog.com/025/.

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Little Pampered Dog can be found at https://littlepampereddog.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Little Pampered Dog cc: Ike Skips at 4101 South Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34982. Request must be received no later than 72 Hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Little Pampered Dog, 4101 South Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, [email protected]

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

The post 025 – A Boy and His Dog Inspired a Book – Interview with Julie Duncan Author of Ike Skips appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

I’m excited to announce a new feature on Little Pampered Dog – Book Recommendations. I like to read and I love dogs but I don’t want to read a book where the dog dies. I am also admittedly a little hard to please when it comes to books. I look for excellent writing, a compelling story, and a great escape. I bet you’re the same way as well. That’s why the team here at Little Pampered Dog is furiously reading books where a dog is a character. This way, the love of great book and dogs is combined. We will only recommend books that we love and think you will as well.

To learn more about our book reviews and read some reviews for yourself, click here.

Issue 16 is ready and waiting for you. You can listen to the podcast preview for the issue and review the issue details here. This is the first issue that is available in our new format. You can purchase the issue, right on the website, right now. You’ll receive both a link to a pdf download as well as a link and password to review the flip-style version of the magazine. Both versions are immediately available on any device. Of course, if you prefer to read through our app, we’ve got your covered! The app remains available, as always, through the Apple app store. Click here for the Apple App Store version. 

I knew that Meghan, the new Duchess of Sussex, loves dogs but I didn’t realize that one of her dogs is now living in England and hanging with the Queen herself. Just see the evidence below:

A friend kindly alerted me to a very sweet moment we missed yesterday – the Queen travelling with Meghan’s beagle guy spotted by the talented Lainey Gossip https://madaboutmeghan.blogspot.con/2018/05/live-blog-day-before-wedding.html pic.twitter.com/zpQbtg8YeQ

— Mad About Meghan (@MadAboutMeghan) May 18, 2018

Meghan’s Beagle, Guy, is now living the life of a royal. But one of Meghan’s dogs was left behind. Apparently, her other dog, Bogart was unable to relocate with Meghan due to his advanced age. I’ll be honest with you, it totally breaks my heart that Bogart was left behind. I will assume that Meghan made the best decision for Bogart and try not to think about that too much. My hope for Bogart is that he is in a safe and loving home.

We can never ever speak of the British Monarchy without, of course, mentioning the Queen’s beloved corgis. Sadly, the last royal corgi, Willow, has passed and there will be no more. Queen Elizabeth stopped breeding the royal line because she wanted to make sure to outlive her dogs. Her Corgis were descendants of her beloved Corgi, Susan, who was given to her on her 18th birthday.

Though there are no more corgis in the palace, The Queen still has canine companionship. Two of her pets remain – Vulcan and Candy and they are dorgis. They are descendants of her Susan but are not pure Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Instead they are a corgi-dachshund mix. Whether the mixing happened on purpose or happenstance is still unknown, but apparently one of Princess Margaret’s dachshunds matted with one of the royal corgis and voila – the royal dorgis!

I’ve been following the volcanic eruptions in Hawaii as I am sure everyone else is as well. I can’t help but wonder how these natural disasters affect wildlife and pets. Well, it seems that two pet dogs are very lucky to have been found safe and sound. Brus and Little Dude were lost when they panicked and ran away during their owner’s evacuation.  The good news is that they were found just in time. They were stuck between a fence and lava flow. But they are doing well. Here’s a link to the news article.

I truly believe that dogs are angels and no one will ever convince me otherwise. If you’ve followed Dan Wheeler (a QVC Show Host Personality) as I have for years, you’ll know the story of the loss of his beloved wife. I think the entire QVC watching public grieved along with him. During this ordeal the Wheelers adopted this beautiful bichon frise named Zoe. She was with him before and now after his wife’s passing. Dan is a devout Christian and has made that known for years. But since his wife’s passing and retirement from QVC, he and two friends have begun an online ministry, Fearless Faith Ministries. Fearless Faith Ministries posts daily words of encouragement on social media. I follow them for the daily messages.

A recent video post by Dan and his baby Zoe for Fearless Faith Ministries made me pause. I mean just look at her. Look at her gentleness and how she is  hugging him. I believe she has been a tremendous blessing to Dan in this most difficult time in his life. She is a great example of the healing that comes from the unconditional love and companionship that only a dog bring. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, dogs are angels.

The post LPD 024 – Royal Dogs, Dogs Surviving Lava and a Dog Who Preaches by Example appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

Have you ever considered a career as a dog groomer? Not only is Shelby Zonghi a professional groomer but her mother, grandmother and other aunts and cousins are dog groomers as well! You could say she knows a thing or two about the industry. In this podcast episode, Shelby tells us about how her grandmother, who is now retired, got her into dog grooming. Her career choice was inevitable if you consider that she was hanging out at her grandmother’s salon playing with the dogs since about age five. But wait there’s more! Shelby works at a grooming salon and also has her own mobile dog-grooming business on the side. I don’t think you could find anyone more passionate about animals and grooming as Shelby. You also won’t find a kinder or sweeter person. The article associated with this podcast is in Issue 16 of Little Pampered Dog, and the full audio interview is available to everyone in this podcast episode.

Best For All Devices

Issue 16 is the first issue of Little Pampered Dog that is available outside of an app. Little Pampered Dog started as a magazine delivered via an app in the Apple App Store, and we are so proud to be available there and will continue to be available there. However, we’re expanding our reach to be available to you directly via our website in a format that can be read by any device. Now you’ll be able to enjoy Little Pampered Dog on your desktop, laptop or mobile device of your choice. This issue is the first one that will be available in this format, and we’ll also be adding the back issues as time goes on. My goal is to be where you want us to be in the way that you prefer. So I’m just adding other avenues to make it easy for you to enjoy the Little Pampered Dog content.

We’ve covered a lot of fun and compelling topics in Issue 16. First of all, did you realize that this is the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Dog? Surely this means it will be a great year for dogs and dog-lovers! Find out what the Year of the Dog means for you and your dog. We also make it easy to find your own Chinese Zodiac sign.

Have you ever noticed that most dogs have brown eyes? Some dogs have beautiful blue eyes, and now you can learn about their unique genetic make-up.

We love all of the finer things in life including dog-inspired art. What if you could create that art yourself? We have a special resource for you to do just that.

This issue features the tough and tiny Yorkshire Terrier. Yorkies are exceptional and very smart dogs. In this issue, you’ll get to meet one very special and heroic Yorkie.

How old is your dog really? Did you know that the 7 human years to 1 calendar year ratio is now thought to be incorrect? The good news is that your dog is very likely younger than you think!

I’ve heard of many dog-friendly workplaces. This particular company absolutely shocked me, in a good way, with their pro-dog workplace policies. I had no idea that this certain huge brand was such a great place for dog-lovers and their dogs to go to work every day. You will be amazed. Hint: you have very likely done business with them!

I hope that you enjoy Issue 16 as much as Bella and the entire Little Pampered Dog team have enjoyed bringing it to you. Thank you for being a part of the Little Pampered Dog community!

The post LPD 023 – Third Generation Dog Groomer and Issue 16 – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

What a dream come true to find out that Taylor Morrison, a leading national home builder, is developing communities that are not only “pet friendly” in the traditional sense, but are decidedly pet-centric. In this podcast interview we get to meet Kathleen Gagg, Vice President of Pope Properties. Kathleen describes in detail why the Esplanade communities by Taylor Morrison are perfect for dog lovers.

Can you imagine living in a beautifully designed and built home with every amenity you could ever want – including events that are meant to help your dog to live their perfect life? Yet there is more – so much more that you and your dog will appreciate about the Taylor Morrison lifestyle! Just listen up to get all of the details.

The article that goes along with the Taylor Morrison interview is included in Issue 15 of Little Pampered Dog but there’s so much more in the issue!

In the feature article we make a prediction for the next “First Dog of the United States.” A new President likely means a new “First Pet” and we have a little “insider information” for you. Are we right about the next member of the Trump Administration and Trump Family? Time will tell. Regardless, American Presidents have loved their pets all the way to George Washington himself. In the rest of the article we meet the First Pets under the last 3 Administrations: the Obama Administration, Bush Administration and Clinton Administration. Think what you will about any or all of these Presidents – this is not a political article. Instead, we focus in the pets and celebrate the beautiful creatures that help our American Presidents and are the delight of the American public.

Next we meet celebri-dog, Quincy and his master Patrick Barnes. Quincy and Patrick are social media sensations and we scored a little time with both of them. We have an exclusive, embedded podcast in this issue that is so much fun! Patrick is a hoot and you’ll love meeting him. At the end of the article and interview you’ll want to follow them everywhere online!

I could not ever have imagined that such a posh learning facility existed. In our article “Learning Meets Luxury” we meet 2 sought-after trainers and take a look behind the scenes at their one-of-a-kind training center. Your pup will love going to this Puppy Prep School but if you prefer, you can hire these trainers to come to your home. Rather train your own dog yourself? No problem. This couple has authored a book that you’ll love reading. This article contains a video and embedded exclusive podcast interview.

Did you know that the United States Postal Service has a mascot and that mascot is a dog? Learn all about Owney the Mascot of the United States Rail Mail Service. Owney is an important dog in history and you’ll enjoy learning about his love for mail bags and how he continues to enchant people everywhere.

One quick announcement: From time to time we will have some fun giveaways for you and your dog. You can find giveaway information here. I do hope you’ll join in on the giveaway fun that we’ll be enjoying as a community. As always that you for being a part of Little Pampered Dog!

The post LPD 022 – Home is Where the Dog Is and Issue 15 – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

In this podcast you’ll get to meet Janet Holtman, Founder and Director of Corridor Therapy Dogs. Corridor Therapy Dogs is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides dog and human volunteer teams where ever animal-assisted therapy is needed. Janet and her volunteers work in their immediate area. If you live close to Janet, perhaps you and your dog might enjoy volunteering also. If not, perhaps you could join a similar organization where you live. Of course, you can always do as Janet has done and start a similar organization of your own.

I loved meeting Janet and I know you will too. First of all, she clearly loves dogs and loves sharing the joy of dogs. Second, Janet doesn’t do things half way. What was once a mere thought and wish has become an organization that has blessed so many lives. I hope you’ll be as inspired by Janet and Corridor Therapy Dogs as I am.

Meeting Janet has been delightful and in Issue 14 we have a full article on Janet and Corridor Therapy Dogs that I know you’ll enjoy. But the fun is only beginning with Corridor Therapy Dogs. There’s so much more waiting for you in Issue 14.

Little Pampered Dog is based in the United States but we have readers all over the world. I love that no matter what country we live in, we can all come together with an incredible love for dogs. We discovered 2 places that you need to know about. The first is in Bangalore, India. This dog cafe is likely the most dog-friendly restaurant the exists on Earth. Really! I mean that! Why? Because the restaurant was created with dog and dog-lovers in mind foremost. There’s a special gourmet doggie-menu and if you don’t have a dog of your own, you can play with their resident dogs. You’ll fall in love with them, just as I did! Second, we found a lovely chalet in Tasmania! The owners of the chalet are dog enthusiasts and owners also. They created their one-of-a-kind chalet based on their own wants and needs. You’ll certainly be pampered but most importantly, your dog will be spoiled like never before.

We have a new feature titled “The Perfect Comeback.” In this regular feature we cover some of those “odd” questions that we get about our dogs. Here’s how it works, you submit some of those rude questions we all as dog lovers sometimes get. Then we come up with a funny (and very disarming) answer that you can use to keep those snarky-snarks at bay! Wait until you see this month’s question. I bet you’ve hear this one before!

We covered a famous dog in history named, Bud. Bud was part of a very important team here in the United States. I’ll give you a hint: if you love dogs and you love cars, you’ll absolutely adore this article.

Next, I set about to create the perfect Sweet Potato Chip Recipe ever! Most of the recipes for sweet potato chips are involved and long. Who has hours to wait for a snack? Not me and certainly, not my Little Pampered Dog, Bella! Well, Bella and I think we have the best recipe for you ever! Just think, homemade sweet potato chips that you and your dog can enjoy made super easy and super fast!

Bella and I have a gift for you in this issue. If you love word searches, you’ll love this gift. We’ve taken words from each of our articles in this issue to craft a word search puzzle that will be emailed to you in pdf format. I hope you enjoy searching as much as we enjoyed creating the puzzle for you.

Finally, we cover dogs and divorce. We went to the best-of-the-best, Mark Baer, an attorney and mediator, to find out how family law can affect dogs. If you are going through a tough time in your relationship, you’ll want to get this information. Mark is very experienced in mediating for couples with pets. I should note that Mark was quick to point out that mediation is not just for couples going through a divorce but also for couples that want to stay together or start a happy marriage. You’ll love listening to Mark as he has the most soothing voice ever. Plus you’ll love Mark’s spirit. He truly has a love for animals and it shows. This article includes the actual interview with Mark as an embedded podcast within the magazine.

Thank you in advance for purchasing and reading Issue 14 and thank you for being a part of the Little Pampered Dog community.

The post LPD 021 – Meet Corridor Therapy Dogs and Issue 14 – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

There is so much going on in the “dog world” every single day. Some stories are perfect for the magazine. Others make for great blog posts and the like. But some stories are so timely, you need to know them right now. This podcast covers three of those very timely stories that you need to know about today. Below are the details and links as promised in the podcast.

Good Job California!

Congratulations to California for signing into law bill AB 797 #RightToRescueAct which allows Californians immunity for breaking into vehicles to rescue animals if the animal appears to be in “imminent danger” from the heat due to being trapped in a vehicle. The bill was introduced by Marc Steinorth and Miguel Santiago and below you will see Steinorth’s jubillant post on his Facebook page after the signing of the Bill by California’s Governor Jerry Brown.

I am so impressed that Republicans and Democrats came together to make the #RightToRescueAct a reality. According to Marc Steinorth’s website the bill was sponsored by the Los Angeles County District Attorney and the Human Society of the United States.

Frankly, it just makes sense that one would not let an innocent animal suffer and die simply because their owner doesn’t understand just how quickly a vehicle can get dangerously hot. According to Steinorth’s website, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee and Wisconsin have similar laws in place. If you don’t live in a hot climate, perhaps you can’t relate. But Bella and I live in Florida and there is no way I’d leave her trapped in a car for any length of time no matter the weather. I never ever leave Bella unattended ever. Besides a closed vehicle becoming like an oven very quickly, dogs – all breeds – can and do get stolen every day, but I digress.

To me this is a common-sense law that is needed to be similarly brought everywhere. But today, we applaud California for working together and making the right decision to enact a law that allows for the rescue of innocent animals that would otherwise perish.

The actual wording of AB-797 can be found here.

Xylitol Warning

In a report on WITN.com, Xylitol is exposed as a profoundly toxic substance to dogs with the possibility of killing a small dog in a matter of minutes. Xylitol is a popular sweetener that can be found in chewing gum, peanut butter, breath mints, candies, toothpaste and more! Even some shampoos, condiments and sauces contain Xylitol. Please prevent your dog from coming into contact with this substance by keep all candies and gums away from them and most importantly reading labels. Even if your favorite peanut butter didn’t contain Xylitol before, formulations change. Always read all labels to make certain you are not exposing your dog in any way to Xylitol and make sure to keep your dog away from gums and candies that others have left behind or have on their person.

I found this page on the website, Preventative Vet, that explains more about Xylitol from professionals. However, realize that Preventative Vet does not replace your vet and if your dog should be exposed to Xylitol you need to call your vet immediately.

As the Dog Barks

Finally, we end with the cutest online webisode series that I have ever come across. Meredith Corporation and Merial have developed an original web series titled “As the Dog Barks.” These short doggy-soap-opera is so cute, so well done and so inventive you’re going to love it. Sure, the whole project is meant to promote FRONTLINE® but it’s not the normal product ad. Instead, it is a multi-part web-based series seen on the Better Homes and Gardens website here. You’ll meet notable characters including Erica Canine, Reva Puppina, Victor Spaulding and others. The series consisting of short (approximately 2 minute) webisodes. The webisodes are a spoof on the soap operas we have all loved watching. In the short shows you’ll find the cliff-hangers, intrigue, suspense and romance you love about soap operas presented in a way that only these cute dogs can. The whole concept is absolutely brilliant and, frankly, the best product marketing I’ve seen in years. My absolute admiration and hats off to Meredith. As a dog lover, I have literally watched and laughed at the webisodes now dozens of times. You’re really going to love this. Don’t miss it. Click here to see it.

The post LPD 020 – Congrats Californa, Xylitol and As the Dog Barks – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

I’ve been following the work of a team of scientists at the University of Washington studying aging in dogs. They call their research the Dog Aging Project. The goal of the Dog Aging Project is not just merely to extend the lifespan of dogs, but rather to extend the “healthspan” of dogs. As Dr. Silvan Urfer suggested in the podcast interview: what is the point of a longer life for our dogs if they are not healthy and don’t feel well?

I reached out to the Dog Aging project and Dr. Urfer graciously responded, providing me with detailed information over email and even more extensive information in this podcast episode. You’ll absolutely love meeting him in this podcast.

The Dog Aging Project is currently conducting two simultaneous studies in dogs living in the “real world” as pets with their families.

1. The Longitudinal Study – There are no interventions with this study. Instead, dogs of all ages, sizes and health conditions are followed in order to gain a better understanding of the inherent or environmental factors that lead to dog aging and disease.

2. Rapamycin Intervention Trial – Rapamycin is used in human medicine in large doses to prevent human transplant rejection. However, the same drug in low doses has extended the healthspan of mice. The scientists believe that it is possible that Rapamycin might do the same thing in dogs. It is important to note that there is nothing in this podcast or on this website that is encouraging you to take any action in regards to Rapamycin and your dog. The hypothesis that Rapamycin might extend the healthy lifespan of dogs, though promising, is preliminary and, most importantly, as yet unproven. Instead, the purpose of presenting this information here is to make you aware of research that is currently being conducted. If you follow the Dog Aging Project, you’ll be among the first to know of their discoveries.

The study of aging in dogs has far-reaching implications. If scientists can understand and slow down aging, presumably they will be better able to understand and possibly prevent or delay the onset of disease. As Dr. Urfer mentioned, aging is the one major risk factor that many seemingly unrelated diseases and disabilities have in common. Their work has important ramifications not only for dogs, but for other species, including humans.

We covered other topics in this podcast including caloric restriction, optimal dog weight and the definition of aging. However, Dr. Urfer said that we should absolutely not be “starving” our dogs or ourselves. Instead, Dr. Urfer encouraged us all to make sure that we keep our dogs at a healthy weight – not too skinny and not too fat. He told us that we should search online for a “Dog Body Conditioning Score Chart.” I found one for us that I think you’ll like. It comes from the University of Liverpool. I like it because rather than provide just a general chart for all dogs, it includes specific charts for different-sized dogs. Specifically, it includes charts for toy, small, medium, large and giant breeds of dogs. I found this particularly helpful. Of course, if you think that your dog is either underweight or overweight, don’t just make an assumption based on a chart online. Take that information to your veterinarian who can make a real professional assessment and advise you accordingly.

I have to confess that this is likely one of my favorite podcast interviews ever. Will Rapamycin prove useful in helping dogs to live healthier and longer lives? No one knows for certain, but I know that I will be following the research closely. Whether it is Rapamycin or discoveries that will be made through the Longitudinal Study, I am heartened to learn that there are a group of scientists and a network of veterinarians and dog owners who care so very deeply about our beloved dogs. I’m hopeful that, one day, dogs will be able to be with us just a little while longer in our life’s journey. I also find it very ironic that we may very well make discoveries for ourselves, our lifespan and our health through the research these scientists are doing with dogs. I have no idea what, if anything, we as humans did to deserve these beautiful beings we call dogs. I am just so thankful they are with us.

To learn more about the Dog Aging Project click here.

To make a donation to the Dog Aging Project click here.

To learn more about the Rapamycin Trial click here.

“The book of happy memories that you and your dog will write together.”

<br />

The post LPD 019 – Dog Aging Project with Dr. Silvan Urfer – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

Bella Sleeping Under My Desk

News from the “dog world” crosses my desk every single day. Some things are perfect for the magazine. Other tidbits make for great interviews for the podcast. Yet there’s still more. There are stories that you need to know “now” because they are so timely and they can’t wait. That’s what this episode of the Little Pampered Dog podcast is about. I call this and similar episodes “Quick Dog Bites.” Below are the details and links promised.

Bella likes to join me on my podcasts. Truth be told, she and I are together most of the time. This means that you might hear a bark or two every now and again as Bella inserts her “two cents” into a podcast episode. She didn’t have much to add to this particular episode for a simple reason, she was asleep. I recorded this early in the morning on September 6, 2016 at apparently an hour that she found abhorent. She could have gone back to bed, but she and I are, as they say, attached at the hip. So she simply used the little cubby under my desk where I keep her PupSaver when not in use. The PupSaver makes for a great temporary portable bed and she likes it when she wants to be near me, but go back to sleep. So in this episode, I shared the following with you without any commentary from her. Forgive her, will you? Little Pampered Dogs need their beauty sleep, after all!

Between December 2015 and August 2016, the province of Ontario confirmed over 150 cases of rabies. Vaccinating your pets against rabies is the best way to protect them, and your family, from the rabies virus. (CNW Group/Canadian Animal Health Institute)

Canadian Animal Health Institute issued a news release to remind pet owners to vaccinate their pets against rabies in accordance with their own personal veterinarian’s schedule. Here’s what happened: People in the province of Ontario were not overly concerned with rabies because of successful governmental efforts with wildlife. But in early 2016 there has been a resurfacing of a racoon strain of rabies. Consequently, the Canadian Animal Health Institute has issued a reminder about rabies vaccinations. In some cities in Ontario, there is a legal requirement for rabies vaccinations. But regardless, it is best to check, especially now, with your vet to make sure your pets are up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations. You can read the official release for yourself by clicking here.

Where I live in Florida, it is just standard practice to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies. There’s no way around it, it is a legal requirement plus it is an real danger and issue here. So whether you are in Florida (like me), Canada or any where else in the world, consider this a reminder to check with your vet about what is best for your dog.

According to an article in The Guardian, nearly 1 in 3 dogs in the United Kingdom has ticks. The chances of a dog picking up a tick is equal whether the dog and his owner are in a rural or an urban area. Ticks in and of themselves are a nuisance, of course. But the real dangers from ticks are the diseases that they carry including Lyme Disease. So if you are in any place in the world where ticks are prevalent, including the UK, check your dog for ticks regularly! If you find a tick, contact your veterinarian for instruction on tick removal. Also make sure to ask your vet whether or not you need to be concerned with Lyme or other tick-borne diseases.

Chicken Soup for the Soul and American Humane are teaming up to provide 1 million meals to shelter pets. Support their efforts! (PRNewsFoto/American Humane Association)

American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food are partnering to provide 1 million meals to shelter dogs and cats. Here’s how it works, for every Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food item that is purchased between June 15, 2016 and December 31, 2016, Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food will donate 1 pound of pet food to shelter and rescue organizations. Their goal is to provide the equivalent of 1 million meals to pets in shelters and rescue organizations.

So I had an idea for all of us. Did you listen to our Podcast Episode 17? In that episode we covered Pets of the Homeless and how there are pet food drop off locations for the homeless and disadvantaged in almost every community in the United States. So if you dog doesn’t eat Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food you can still help. In fact, you can do “double good.” Purchase some Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food at participating locations and then donate the food to your local drop off location for Pets of the Homeless. In this way, the food can do good to the homeless and needy in your community. Plus, you’ll be helping to feed dogs and cats in shelters and rescue organizations. You can find more information about this promotion by clicking here.

I’m convinced that dogs are smarter than we realize. My grandfather grew up on a farm and he always told me that animals can sense things that people can’t. He assured me that even our domesticated pets have abilities that humans lack. Maybe that is why we humans domesticated dogs eons ago.

I found an article online with a video taken by a family’s surveillance camera right before a recent earthquake. The family noticed on the footage that moments prior the earthquake, their dogs sensed it coming and perked up. The dogs actually knew what was coming before the earth shook. The good news is that no one in that family was hurt. It’s just fascinating how the dogs were able to somehow sense the earthquake coming seconds before it hit. What were the dogs feeling? Did they hear the quake? Did they smell it? Did they sense the vibration? You can read the article and see the video by clicking here.

Addiction Foods is celebrating the dedication that pet owners have for their beloved dog or cat with a fun contest titled “Ends of the Earth” contest. Pet owners can enter http://endsoftheearth.addictionfoods.com/ to win a trip of a lifetime to New Zealand and a prize package of Addiction food, treats and other swag. (PRNewsFoto/Addiction Foods)

Addiction Foods Co-Founder, Jerel Kwek, wanted to help his pet with allergies and set on a journey to “the ends of the earth” to find the best food for his pet. His quest resulted in the founding of Addiction Foods.

To celebrate the similar dedication that pet owners have for their furry family members, Addiction Foods is holding a contest where pet owners can share just how far they too have gone for their pets. The first place prize includes airfare for 2 plus accomodations to Auckland, New Zealand and a 6-month supply of Addiction Food. If you are part of the Little Pampered Dog community you’ll do whatever you can to make sure your dog is as healthy and happy as possible. Why not enter the contest? You just might win! You can enter here.

Whether or not you enter the contest, do take time to read the other submitted stories. You’ll find that the stories are cute, touching and just amazing. You’ll enjoy the great pictures too!

Thank you for joining me and Bella (even though she’s sleeping) on another podcast episode. I invite you to join our small but mighty closed Facebook group here and also to interact with the entire Little Pampered Dog community via social media on the links below:

Facebook

The post LPD 018 Worldwide Pet Health News, Pet Food Donations, Dogs Sensing Earthquakes and Contest – Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

I’m not exactly sure how I happened upon Pets of the Homeless but once I found this great organization, I knew had to bring it to you. In this episode we meet Genevieve Frederick, the Founder of Pets of the Homeless. You’ll learn about how she got the idea for the effort plus what inspires her to keep going. Homelessness is a complicated issue for certain. But to Genevieve, her small staff and large network of volunteers, it’s all actually quite simple. They work together to make sure that no pet goes hungry and that no pet is in pain. Please visit their website at www.petsofthehomeless.org. I bet you’ll be surprised to find out that there are donation sites as well as resources right in your community. The full article associated with this podcast regarding Pets of the Homeless Suites can be found in Issue 13 of Little Pampered Dog.

This is a really fun issue! Our cover dog is a Pumi. Why? Well, the Pumi breed was just recognized as the American Kennel Club’s 190th breed. The breed itself is not new at all. The Pumi is a Hungarian working dog. But there are finally enough Pumik (the plural of Pumi is Pumik) in the United States with committed owners and breeders to include the Pumi in the AKC. We have a full article on the Pumi and another article on what it takes to be recognized as an AKC breed. I can’t wait for you to meet the Pumi! I think I’ve just fallen in love with this breed!

Did you know that there was a dog who was a full-fledged member of the United States Coast Guard? In this issue you get to meet Sinbad and learn about what this mutt turned maritime hero meant to his shipmates and to the United States. I love how revered and honored this dog still is today.

We have a new feature titled “The Perfect Comeback.” Let’s face it, sometimes we get those snarky-snark comments about our love and devotion for our dogs. Not everyone “gets it.” Of course, we always strive to take the “high-road” with those silly comments, but how fun to have the perfect comeback! In this issue we explore a question that most Little Pampered Dog owners will get. I think we have the perfect answer. See for yourself!

Next we explore a little doggy lore and doggy history with “The Legend of Room 231.” The coincidences associated with this old historic hotel are just astounding. I love a little whimsical mystery especially when it comes to dogs. I hope you will too!

One of the most moving interviews we have ever done is with Michele Hobbs of Pet Wants. Michele and her wife Amanda founded a pet food company against all odds. But in a very short time period have grown exponentially. Pet Wants even has over 50 franchisees throughout the United States. It takes much more than passion to reach this level of success. You’ll learn about their food and an exciting opportunity if you ever wanted to get into the pet food business.

I thank you for being a part of the Little Pampered Dog community and I hope you will enjoy Issue 13.

The post LPD 017 – Pets of the Homeless and Issue 13 of Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.

We’re always searching for pet-friendly travel resources and this time, we have a solution that you may never have considered. Many people don’t realize that many extended-stay hotels are pet-friendly. By definition, extended-stay hotels are meant to be “like home” and what could be more “homey” than your dog? In this podcast we interview Amanda Hurley of Sonesta. Amanda goes into detail about extended-say hotels in general and Sonesta ES Suites in particular. The full article associated with this podcast regarding Sonesta ES Suites can be found in Issue 12 of Little Pampered Dog.

There’s a lot waiting for your and your dog in Issue 12! We have what is likely the most comprehensive travel checklist ever. The checklist article is more than a mere list of things to pack. Instead, we go into detail with links and resources about where you can get information on important paperwork that you need when traveling from one country to another or even state to state within the USA. If you are planning on traveling near or far ever with your dog, this article is an important resource that you’ll turn to again and again.

We explore the similarities between dog and wolf behavior.

Meet one of History’s Most Wanted dogs. This little mischievous Pomeranian was the beloved dog of one of the world’s most famous and impactful scientists. How amazing that throughout all time people have loved and treasured their dogs as much as you and I do today.

Americans love their pets and we have the statistics to prove it. We are not all Americans here in the Little Pampered Dog community, but we started there and we’ll soon be reporting similar stats from other parts of the world.

Likely the most important article we have ever produced is the one titled “Your Dog and Your Money.” Hopefully your dog has the perfect health forever. But in case something were to go wrong, we have a multi-pronged action plan for making sure that you can pay for your dog’s care. The plan doesn’t assume that you have a ton of money or are a person of means. Instead the plan takes into account every possible scenario in case something were to happen. This article was inspired by a conversation I had on Facebook with a childhood friend who adores dogs as much as you and I do. He told me to make sure that I planned ahead so that any decisions that needed to be made for Bella’s health was being made based on what was best for her and not what I could afford at the moment. Based on that conversation, I can up with this plan. Use this article as a starting point to craft a plan with help from your vet, financial and legal professionals. I really hope you invest in this issue to get this resource that you might find yourself referring over and over again. The best plans are made sooner rather than later. Start now.

In short, I want this to be a very important resource edition for you and your dog.

The post LPD 016 – Extended Stay Hotels with Sonesta ES Suites and Issue 12 of Little Pampered Dog appeared first on Little Pampered Dog.