Courageous Cat Survives Fire

Watch Smoka's amazing story -

http://ping.fm/ZcVH7

Fur Hits the Field for Puppy Bowl V

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have walked away with a Super Bowl win but Puppy Bowl V was the game that walked away with our hearts! Returning for its fifth season, Puppy Bowl V kick started this year's extravaganza with "Pepper the Parrot" singing a unique rendition of the National Anthem. An all-star, all adoptable lineup of rambunctious pups than took the field for some fur-raising good times followed by a kitty half-time show. With so many cute pups, it was hard to pick a side. There were some intense romping and rolling with few injuries and a lot of slobber. We all hope that each and every pup finds a loving home!

All of the Puppy Players and Kitty Entertainers came from local Petfinder shelters. Visit Petfinder to browse over 300,000 listings of adoptable pets just waiting for a good home.

To check out clips from Puppy Bowl V and more information about the adorable four legged players, go to Animalplanet.com.

Pet Travel - Heading to the Snow

Though the holiday's may be over, we still have winter! The Polka Dot Pup crew recently put on our long johns and headed for the hills for a little snow dog mischief. Check out some of our favorite moments from the trip.

For more snow dog pics and tips to help keep your pet safe in the cold climate, click here.

Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips

Thanksgiving is all about great company and even better food. It's also a time to remember that although your dogs pleading puppy eyes are begging you for table scraps, there are a number of items on your table that can be very harmful to your pets.

Food to watch out for:
-Turkey fat
-Bones from fish, meat, or poultry (turkey included)
-Uncooked meat, fish, and poultry
-Onions
-Garlic
-Raisins and Grapes
-Macadamia nuts
-Uncooked yeast dough
-Alcohol
-Coffee/Tea
-Rich, fatty foods (gravy or grease)
-Sweets (especially chocolate)
-Secure leftovers and garbage

Healthy Treats:
-Fresh pumpkin can be good for dogs (who knew)? If a dog has constipation or diarrhea, cooked pumpkin is good for them. If dog is over weight, its a great filler to put with their food.
-Carrots
-Thanksgiving-inspired pet treats


For other food facts, check out the links below -
Season's Eatings, Petside.com
Best Turkey Treats for Dogs, Petside.com
Dogs and Holidays, AKC.com
Holiday Safety Tips for Dogs, Doctors Foster and Smith

Southern California Fires - Pet Safety

Living in Southern California, you know that when the Santa Ana winds pick up there is the chance for wild fires. Although as residents we prepare ourselves for these disasters, you are never really ready for the devastation fires can cause.

Our hearts go out to the residents affected by the recent outbreak of fires including Sylmar, Corona, Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda and Brea. Below please find a compiled list of evacuation sites where you can bring your pets.

Sylmar
Dept. of Animal Services: Horses can be taken to the Hansen Dam Equestrian Center at Foothill Blvd. and Orcas Ave.

Other animals can be taken to Mission Animal Center at 15321 Brand Blvd. in Mission Hills, or to the athletic fields at both high-school evacuation centers.

Orange County (for Corona/Brea/Yorba Linda/Anahiem Hills fires)
Animals can be taken to the Orange County animal shelter at 561 The City Dr., Orange. Horses can be taken to the Rocking T Ranch, at Lakeview Avenue and Bastanchury Road in Yorba Linda.

The Anaheim Fire Department said that horses may be sheltered at:Rancho Del Rio Stables1314 Sandersen Ave., Anaheim (714) 535-3510


For tips on protecting your pets during a fire, please check out Pet Fire Safety.

Polka Dot Pup on Twitter

Polka Dot Pup is on Twitter!

Follow our pet correspondent Vixen as she partakes in her daily routines. What's more fun than living a dogs life?

Check out all the fun at http://twitter.com/PolkaDotPup.

Pet 'Net Adoption Event - Celebrating Pet Adoption Across the Nation

In today's society, too many pets are waiting helplessly in shelters to be adopted. The Humane Society of The United States (HSUS) estimates that 6-8 million cats and dogs enter shelters each year. This October, the Pet 'Net Adoption Event is helping to spread the word about adoption in hopes to reduce these numbers. Isn't it about time you considered adoption?

Adopting a pet is a big step but well worth it. You've made the decision to walk into your local shelter and pick out your new best friend for the next 10-15+ years. If only adoption were so easy. Here are a few tips to help you on your way to adopting the perfect pet for you and your family!

One key thing to keep in mind when considering adopting a pet is that they are a full time job. They become part of the family and like children, require lots of attention and love. They are not cheap either. On top of food and everyday essentials, it is really hard to resist all the cute pet products out there on the market. Don't forget about training which helps pets to be better mannered and increases the bond between owner and pet. I mention these topics not to scare potential adopters, but to bring a realization to what it takes to raise a health happy pet.

We've made it past the basics, now it's time to think about what breed or mix would work best in your home. Do some research into what types of dogs or cats are out there and what which might work best for you. Consider size (large dog or small dog), temperament (extremely hyper or mellow), coat (in case of allergies), how well certain breeds do with other animals and people, what does your living situation permit (do you live in an apartment or travel frequently), these are all items that can affect your future pet-human relationship. Check out your local shelter or adoption center and sit down with the staff and ask lots of questions. Don't forget to take your time, this is a big decision.


Meet one of Vixen's very best friend's, Abby. Abby was adopted from a North Carolina shelter.

So you've made your decision, you found your perfect companion and are ready to take him/her home. Now what? Make sure to pet proof your home, pickup anything your new pet might get into. Stock up on pet essentials like an ID tag, collar and leash, a bowl for water and food, dog bed and crate, brush for coat and teeth and tons of toys of course! Set some boundaries, this will help your pet learn the rules around the house. Get to know your pet, figure out their behaviors and habits and help correct and reward them.

One of the most enjoyable steps to adopting a pet is just going out and having fun. The bond you share with your pet is so special. My heart goes out to all of the pets in shelters waiting to find their own family. Help make a difference in a pet's life and they will return the favor with lifelong love and friendship.


To learn more about the Pet 'Net Adoption Event, go to Petside.com.

For more tips on pet adoption and adoption shelters in your area, please visit the sites below:
Petfinder.com
AdoptaPet.com
Dogster.com
Pedigree - Adopt a Dog
Pet Adoption Portal
American Kennel Club - Breed Rescue
The Humane Society of The United States
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)

Celebrating Dog! - Dogs Rule Day 10-11-08

They fetch the paper, wake you up in the morning with licks, can play catch for hours on end, they are your four legged friend, your buddy, your dog! So here's to all the amazing dogs out there, it's about time they got their own holiday. On October 11, 2008 help celebrate the first ever Dogs Rule Day, an international holiday for dogs developed by Pedigree.

Can't wait to get in on the dog loving fun? Check out Dogsrule.com where you can upload your favorite photos and videos of you and your pet, join the official Dogs Rule Day Facebook and learn how you can help spread the word.

Here are a few ways Polka Dot Pup plans to celebrate:
1. Take a nice long walk or visit our local dog park for a game of fetch.
2. Offer up some extra belly rubs.
3. Visit our local pet store for a special treat of our pets choice.
4. Take some time off for an all dog day where its all about our pets.
5. Adopt a pet or volunteer at a shelter to help any pups in need.

Go to Dogsrule.com to discover 101 more ways to celebrate Dogs Rule Day.


Once the parties die down, we want to hear how you celebrated! Send your stories and pics to polkadotpupblog@aol.com.

POLKA DOT PUP OF THE MONTH - August 2008

Bailey
Breed: Golden Retriever
Location: Simi Valley, California
Age: 9 years old
Bailey loves the summer family trips to Tahoe, CA. Her favorite past time, standing guard on the beaches keeping an eye out for pets who are breaking the law.


If you would like your pet to be Polka Dot Pup of the Month, please send an email with a picture of your pet and a short description about what they love and any funny facts to polkadotpupblog@aol.com. The winner will appear in a posting on Polka Dot Pup, the everything dog blog!

Ah Chee Wawa! Chihuahua Fever Hits Hollywood

Ah Chee Wawa!

These little dogs have come a long way from first hitting it big as the famous face for Taco Bell. Since than these pups have been stealing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere with their tini tiny features and large personalities.

On October 3, 2008, these pocket pooches will be taking the next big step towards worldwide dog domination with the Disney film Beverly Hills Chihuahua. With names like Drew Barrymore, Andy Garcia and George Lopez lending their vocals to these part animal part digitally generated pups, this film is sure to bring in packs of pup loving fans.

I am on the ropes regarding the storyline. This film does not follow the life of a normal house pet, instead you tag along with Chloe who is a pampered Chihuahua from Beverly Hills who somehow finds herself in the mean streets of Mexico.

Is it believable? I live an hour away from Hollywood and while it's not far from the truth (I have witnessed dressed up pups being rolled down the streets in strollers), the film definitely will appeal to Disney's younger viewers.

Click Beverly Hills Chihuahua to check out more about the film.

Pups and Their Celeb Look-a-Likes

Every think your pet reminds you of someone or have you ever heard the phrase "pets look like their owners"? The pet loving people at petside.com put together a compelling list of pups and their celeb look-a-likes. The really cool thing is the pup pics are all from fans of the site. So, if you think your pet is the dog version of Britney Spears you can send in a picture and have it added to their slide show.

What do you think?
Here at Polka Dot Pup, our puppy correspondent Vixen has been linked with a number of look-a-like celebs. Tell us who you think her celeb look-a-like is and we will post the best match!



To check out the full list of Pet Celebrity Look-a-Likes, visit petside.com

PETS IN THE NEWS - Dog and Sheep Unlikely Pair

They say opposites attract! This unlikely duo have been hitting headlines all around town and I just can't get enough.

Maggie the dog and Daisy the sheep took their relationship on the road and were spotted wandering near a freeway off-ramp in Granada Hills CA where a kindhearted passer by stopped and gave them a lift. The twosome have now been reunited with their owners and their heart warming tale has touched the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Hey Animal Planet, how about a Maggie and Daisy reality series??




To check out more about this unlikely duo, check out the Dailynews.com

America's Family Pet Expo Makes a Splash in the OC

Looking to beat the heat this weekend (newscasters are calling for mid to high 90's in So. Cal)? Try heading down to Costa Mesa for America's Family Pet Expo. Come join pet lovers from all over and check out tons of product booths featuring what's new in pet products for 2008 along with pet entertainment like Gibson, the worlds tallest dog and Splash Dogs (just to name a few of Polka Dot Pups favorites).

Only drawback to the event, you are not allowed to bring your pets but with all the goodies you are sure to find and bring home, I'm sure Fido won't mind.

HOURS: Friday(10AM-6PM), Saturday (10AM-7PM), Sunday (10AM-6PM)

LOCATION: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

PRICING: General Admission - $12.00 (get a $2 discount at www.PetExpoOC.com), Seniors 60 & over - $10.00, Children 6-12 - $6.00, 5 yrs. and under - Free!


Not located in California? No worries, America's Family Pet Expo will be heading to Southwest Michigan in Fall 2008.

For more info on the Pet Expo, check out the following helpful sites -

PetExpoOC.com

WWPIA.com

The Doggie Name Game

Ever wonder what's in a name? Well, Veterinary Pet Insurance has released it's findings for the top male and female dog names. Calculated from the names of insured dogs in their database, the top names have determined one major thing. Gone are the days of "Fluffy" and "Beauford", 2008 is all about dogs of the human kind (or at least their names).

In today's world, pets are becoming more and more a part of the family. And why not, pets offer companionship and comfort that most of us look for in this crazy world. The big question is, does this new role effect how you name your new furry friend? Check out the top doggie names to see if your pet name made the list.

For a fun quiz, make a list of the number of dogs you know that have these names and send your stats to Polkadotpupblog@aol.com. We will blog the results to see what names stand supreme with the Polka Dot Pup viewers.

Top Female Dog Names
1. Bella
2. Molly
3. Lucy
4. Maggie
5. Daisy
6. Sophie
7. Sadie
8. Chloe
9. Bailey
10. Lola

Top Male Dog Names
1. Max
2. Buddy
3. Rocky
4. Bailey
5. Jake
6. Charlie
7. Jack
8. Toby
9. Cody
10. Buster


Want to learn more about the new evolution in dog names? Check out the USA Today article Names for dogs miss the Spot

Dogs In the News

Dog Saved by Marine Gets Permanent Home

Having a brother who served in the Army, I have always considered the men and women in the armed forces as hero's. A recent story circulating in the news really shows another side of what is going on in Iraq and how our troops are not only trying to protect people but also animals.

Marine Maj. Brian Dennis, stationed along the Syria-Iraq border, befriended a male German shepherd-border collie mix while on patrol whom he named "Nubs" after learning that someone had cut the dogs ears.

Constant runs-ins between the two created a deep bound which only deepened when Dennis found Nubbs near death and helped him recover. Military policy does not allow pets in war zones so Dennis decided to send the pup to his home base in San Diego. With the help of his Iraq interpreter and family and friends, he raised $3,500 to get the dog from Amman, Jordon to San Diego where colleagues will be watching over and training Nubs until Dennis's safe return.

This is such an inspiring story about how these two found each other in the middle of a war zone.
Get the Full Story Here


Have an inspiring pet story that you would like the world to hear about? Share it with Polka Dot Pup and it maybe featured in our "Dogs in the News" segment.

Valentine's Day - Doggie Style

Valentine's Day is 3 days away!

Us here at Polka Dot Pup have been gearing up for this love inspired holiday because whether single or taken, there is always a special someone to celebrate. Someone who is always there for you, gives you all the attention you desire and more and always brings you gifts such as a slobbery squeaky toy or tennis ball. If this sounds like your significant other than you might want to rethink that relationship....I'm taking about your favorite four legged friend, your constant canine company of course!

Whether you are the ultimate pet lover ready to deck your dog out on V-Day or you thought it might be fun to pick up a little something for your pet, I have put a list together of some of Polka Dot Pup's favorite Valentine's Day finds. From chocolate covered strawberry squeaky toys to pet friendly chocolates, there is a pup perfect Valentine's Day gift idea for everyone....

With Love,

Polka Dot Pup

See more of my Valentine's Day - Doggie Style list at ThisNext.

Snow Dogs - Polka Dot Pup Heads to the Snow

With all of the SoCal rainy weather we have been getting in the last few weeks, our Polka Dot Pup crew was inspired to hit the road and head to the snow.

For our main mascot Vixen, this was her first ever trip. Although she has an obsession with water (being a Lab and all), we weren't exactly sure how she would react to this white fluffy stuff. We should have known! As soon as that pup step outside, she was in snow dog heaven. She couldn't get enough of that white powder and spent hours romping around and hunting for animals in the brush.









The snow is definitely a great place to spend some owner-pup bonding time this winter but remember to stay safe, the cold weather can take a toll on your furry friends. Check out some great Cold Weather Tips from Kennel and Dog Magazine -

Heating Up Chilly Dogs
Cold Weather Tips to Keep Pets Warm
By Bernadine Cruz, DVM
Provided by Pfizer

Do provide proper shelter:

Do provide indoor dogs with a warm sleeping area away from drafts.

Do use caution around bodies of water. Keep pets away from rivers, ponds and lakes as they begin to freeze. Continue to use caution even when the water appears completely frozen.

Do keep hair around paw pads trimmed. Less hair will help keep paws free of ice and snow, which can quickly ball up between footpads and create uncomfortable walking conditions for pets.

Do check paw pads for small cuts and cracks. Consider dog boots for dogs that react negatively to walking on ice and snow - especially dogs that react to snow removal products.

Do clean your dog's paws after walks to remove salt and snow removal chemicals, which can be toxic to pets.

Do check your dog's ears, tail and feet for frostbite. Just as dogs are sensitive to hot summer sidewalks, cold winter walkways may cause pain or contribute to frostbite. A dog that continually lifts individual legs off the ground during a winter walk may feel the effects of frostbite. Frostbitten skin may appear red or gray. If you suspect frostbite, wrap your dog's feet in a blanket or towels to gradually warm them and contact your veterinarian.

Do provide the proper type and amount of food for the season. Dogs housed outdoors and dogs that participate in strenuous outdoor activities may require additional food during colder weather. On the other hand, indoor dogs that exercise less frequently in colder months may need less food.

Do provide adequate fresh, unfrozen water. If your dog lives outside, consider investing in a heated water bowl. Indoor dogs also may require more water to combat dry winter air.

Do invest in a pet sweater for shorthaired breeds. Watch for telltale signs that your pet is cold. Like us, pets will shiver in response to being chilled.

Do keep puppies and older dogs indoors except for short periods of time. As with humans, young and old dogs are more susceptible to the effects of the cold.

Do keep dogs on a leash - especially during bad weather or snowstorms when they can lose their ability to find their way by smell.

Do pay attention to snow removal. Avoid piling snow near fences and creating an escape route for curious pets.

Do keep identification tags updated in the event your dog runs away.

Do clean up antifreeze spills immediately. Many dogs like the sweet smell and taste and, unfortunately, even very small amounts can be lethal to them. If you suspect that your dog has ingested antifreeze, take your dog to your veterinarian immediately. There may be time for Antizol-Vet, an anti-freeze antidote, to help your dog. Also consider using an animal-friendly anti-freeze.

Do maintain your pet's grooming schedule. Regular brushing keeps your dog's coat supple and prepared for the cold. However, when you bathe your pet, be sure to dry his coat thoroughly before allowing him outside.

Do visit your veterinarian for a checkup before the cold weather strikes. Cold weather may exacerbate certain conditions, such as arthritis. Sudden changes in the weather or drops in temperature may affect pets suffering from osteoarthritis.

Don't suddenly house an indoor dog outdoors. Dogs require a month or more (as seasons change) to become accustomed to lower winter temperatures.

Don't keep your dog outside in all conditions. Pay attention to the thermometer. If it dips too far below freezing, it's too cold for any dog - even those accustomed to being outside.

Don't treat all dogs alike. While some breeds such as Alaskan malamutes or huskies may be able to spend long periods out of doors in cold weather, other breeds such as greyhounds or Dobermans to not have the same protective fur.

Don't leave pets alone in cars during cold weather months. When the engine is off, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold.

For more pets tips, check out DogandKennel.com

Do you have a pup that loves the snow? We want to hear about it! Send your snow dog story along with an attached image to www.polkadotpupblog@aol.com and it may be featured in our "Snow Dogs" series.

Puppy Bowl IV

The pups hit the field February 3rd at 3pm for Animal Planet's fourth annual Puppy Bowl. Get a group of your favorite four legged friends together and catch the game during halftime of the NFL Super Bowl. For the first time ever, this hair raising event will be featured in HDTV so you catch every adorable puppy play as clear as can be.

Check out Animal Plant and vote for your favorite puppy player. The site also features a great guide to creating the perfect Puppy Bowl party, pup related games and tons of cute pooch pics.


The great thing about this program (other than the fact that it is just too cute) is that a number of the puppies featured in Puppy Bowl IV will come from the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, Md., Homeward Tails Rescue and other Washington, D.C. area shelters and if you are interested in adopting your own adorable pup, Animal Planet features a link to petfinder.com for finding adoptable pets.

If you can't catch the show at 3pm, Animal Planet will be replaying the program at 6pm and 9pm as well as on February 4th at 12am.


To get more information about Puppy Bowl IV, visit Animal Planet

Walking the Dog - Product Guide

As January rolls along, have you been keeping your New Year's resolutions?? For those of you who promised their pooches more trips out and about (like myself), I have come up with a list of products that will help inspire any dog walker!

Here's to keeping 2008 active, Happy Walking!

See more of my Walking the Dog: Gifts for your dog walker list at ThisNext.

Happy Holidays from Polka Dot Pup

HAPPY HOLIDAYS
from Vixen and the Polka Dot Pup Crew

We hope that Santa Paws brought you bowls full of doggie delights!