Antlers seem an odd choice for a chew toy

Ok, so deer antlers for a chew? Really?

I would have never believed it myself, had it not been for a trip up to illinois where I guess it is common practice to give the antlers of a kill to their dog. Umm, ok, watched the dogs totally mow on some antlers. Then found a supplier online and got some samples. Hannah is a monster chewer. Shreds nylabones in 6 months.

What I like about antlers as chews is that they have the longevity of bones but don't splinter, and they don't choke themselves like they do on rawhide (I don't sell rawhide), and they dont make a mess like bully sticks or femurs.

If you have an aggressive chewer antlers are hands down the best chew you can get for the money.

Electric shock collar ban in Wales, is the U.S. next?

What is a shock collar? The term shock collar is a term used to describe a family of electronic training collars (also called e-collars or electronic collars). The collar produces an static pulse stimulation at varying degrees of intensity and duration to the dog via a small transmitter incorporated into a dog collar. Some collar models also include a tone or vibrational setting, as an alternative to or in conjunction with the static pulse stimulation. Others include integration with Internet mapping capabilities and GPS to locate canines or alert owners of their whereabouts.
Early electronic collars were used to "stop and shock" hunting dogs who were diverted from their job by distractions, such as chasing prey animals which were not being hunted by the handler, or to force the dog to release an animal it had retrieved for the handler.

Not all dogs are badly affected by these invisible shock fences, but many dogs definitely are. The “fence” doesn’t keep loose dogs or pestering children from coming in. Lots of dogs get out, when fenced in by electric shock, but they can then be afraid to go back home, knowing that they’re going to get another invisible shock on the way back through!

The use of electric shock collars to train dogs or cats is to be banned in Wales and up for discussion in many other countries.

The move has been supported by animal welfare groups, who said pain and fear were not humane training methods.The RSPCA said it was a "great day for animal welfare in Wales" and the Kennel Club said it was a "huge milestone".

The collars are sometimes used to train dogs and cats by giving an electric shock when the animal is deemed to have behaved badly.

Rural Affairs Minister, Elin Jones, said: "This has not been an easy subject to examine.

"There is genuinely a large degree of concern about how these devices are improperly used, in contrast to responses from people who have used them and found they have worked in stopping an animal from misbehaving.

Most responses to the consultations were said to support a ban on electronic training devices.

The RSPCA said it had campaigned on the issue for many years and advocated a range of training methods which did not cause suffering.They are advising other countries to poll their citizens who have not done so.

Check out this link to a blog on different stories of pets and their experiences with shock collars http://ahimsadogtraining.com/blog/2008/02/10/invisible-electric-fence/

What is International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day?

If you think modern holidays have gone to the dogs, you may be right. So today is officially recognized as "International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day".

According to Holiday Insights:

International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is a day for the dogs. And, that's because there is no one else who can really appreciate the true value of a dog biscuit. They say "Every dog has his day". And, it will definitely be his day,when you give him some tasty dog biscuits.

You might appreciate their value in pleasing your dog, as a reward for behavior, or enticing them to do a trick. But, the dog is the recipient of the treat.

Celebrate today by giving your dog a few dog biscuits.

WHERE did this holiday come from exactly? While many people think this is absolutely the most absurd holidy on the books, I think this holiday has some genuine value.
Apparently nobody knows the origin of this holiday. Known records point to the first observance of this holiday on February 23, 2006. Lots of pet organizations, including the ASPCA have this event on their calendars. This holiday is observed from pet businesses with scavenger hunts, biscuit and tea parties, to fraternity drinking games, and might be slightly more popular than National Banana Bread Day (which is also today). There is even a craft page dedicated to making a "Biscuit Dog".

I think the best use of this holiday, however, has to go to the girls scouts. There are several groups that use this holiday to earn their service projects awards. They bake the biscuits themselves and share them with dogs that are homeless, help people, or are - Animal Heros:

• Eyes for those who are blind (dogs and miniature horses)
• Ears for those who can not hear
• Hands for those who are mobility impaired (Capuchin monkeys are especially adept at this)
• Dogs, pigs and miniature horses pull wheelchairs
• Search and rescue animals
• Trained dogs with sensitive noses to sniff out bombs, illegal drugs, and other contraband.
• Companion animals provide emotional support for people in hospices, hospitals, and other situations in which loneliness and lack of stimulation are continual problems
• Companion animals help those with autism connect with the world (parrots are especially good for this)
• Dogs trained to alert their masters their blood sugar has dropped or they are about to have a seizure
• Dogs trained to detect the early stages of some cancers through their sense of smell
• Therapy cats can help humans lower their blood pressure and reduce stress by creating a calming environment when stroked

Here's a recipe for some Bow-Wow Biscuits:

Bow Wow Biscuits
Bow-Wow Biscuits Ingredients:
• Whole wheat
• Yeast that is nutritional
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Slight salt
• Milk, preferably skimmed milk

The procedure:

Mix the whole wheat, yeast, baking powder and baking soda, as well as the salt together. Then add the milk, kneading the mixture to prepare the dough to be baked. Once you have a fluffy dough ready roll it out flat and cut into smaller pieces. Place these pieces of the dough into the baking dish. Put it in the oven for about twenty minutes, setting it at 450 degree Fahrenheit.

I personally think this is outstanding, and I can tell you how much dogs appreciate a good biscuit. If you've ever taken donations by your local animal shelter and actually fed some of the treats to the dogs there then you can truly appreciate what a single dog biscuit means to some dogs - it makes their whole day. I get this opportunity often because our customers so graciously donate treats on a regular basis that we take to the Humane Society of Animals. I'ts very moving to see them so excited about a single cookie or the human contact/attention. I wish I could take them all home.

So - not so silly of a holiday perhaps? Well, maybe the drinking games are...

Updated Display at Go Groomers

Hey Everyone!

A while back we told you that Go Groomers in Lowell was carrying our treats. Well, today we are proud to announce that we have updated our display at Go Groomers and it now includes a brand new product, small bacon and egg bones! Small bones are great for smaller dogs or when your dog just needs a litlle snack. We will be offering these smaller bones in our wholesale locations and eventually in our store as well, but for now you can check them out at our cute new display at Go Groomers!

Mardi Gras Yappie Hour Photos

Hey Everyone!

We had a fantastic time at our Mardi Gras Yappie Hour and just wanted to share the pictures.  Congratulations to Toni and Steve Carter and their dogs Nic, Rose and Josie, who found the baby in the king cake and won the gift basket!

T

The king cake!  Somewhere in there is the "baby"!

Nic greets Miss Mollie, decked out in full Mardi Gras regalia

Nic says hi to Libby too!

Lola eats her cake while Lucky waits patiently for any crumbs she misses

Sundance and Abby wait for their cake too

Even in Australia

As a child and as a teacher, my favorite children's book was Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judoth Voirst.  For those of you who've never read it, it's the tale of Alexander, the youngest of three boys and everything that goes wrong for him in one day.  I love the book because of its humorous take on something everyone of us has experienced.  Alexander wishes that he could go to Australia because in his mind, it would solve all of his problems.  At the end, his mother tucks him in and says, "Some days are like that, even in Australia."  I love that phrase the very best.  Because his mother doesn't promise him that everything will be okay, because no magic fairy waves a wand and solves everything, because it's just a real life truth.

In our house, "It's an Australia Day" is the way we describe that day where everything just went wrong.

And today way an Australia day.  A day where everything was a little harder than it should have been.  A day where the simplest things, like putting away clean dishes or putting a cake on a board became difficult tasks.  A day where the difficult tasks, like rebuilding our website, seemed near impossible.  A day where you stop and wish you could just run away to Australia.

But in every Australia day, there's that moment where you realize that it's just one day and that it will be okay and that tomorrow is another day.  For me, that moment came about a half hour into Yappie hour tonight, just as I was packing up and heading home and leaving Brandi to cover the store.  And in that moment, Bill and Nancy Gross and Miss Mollie, Steve and Toni Carter and Nic and Susan and her dog Libby all came in.  And somehow, the store filled up with warmth and light and everything became a little easier.  And in that moment, I remembered why it was that we open the store every morning and why we fight through the Australia days.  It's because our customers are so much more than customers - they're friends and family.  And because I can't imagine a job that is more rewarding than being blessed to be a part of such a great  community.  And I realized that I don't say thank you nearly enough - to all of you who make our dreams possible and to all of you who make our Australia days just a little easier.

Mardi Paws Pet Parade

Bella Vista Library and the POA sponsored the Mardi Gras Mambo on Sunday the 14th and boy was it cold. Very good turn out for it being such a cold windy day! Other festivities included were the crowning of the Mardi Gras Mambo, king and queen, games, the Mardi Paws pet parade, costume contest, shoebox floats, free food, including king cake, all while enjoying traditional Mardi Gras music at Riordan Hall.

Ellie and King Louie

Miss Molly was the Best Dressed and won a Bigwag basket full of goodies!

Update on Lucky

Hey Everyone!

Back in December we shared Lucky's story with you.  If you haven't read his story, you can view it here.  First, we'd like to say thank you to everyone who has put their spare change and extra dollars in Lucky's jar at the store.  Every dollar helps pay his vet bills!  And second, we have an update:

Lucky's foster mom says Lucky is doing wonderful.  He's still a little "gimpy", but that will clear up through physical therapy.  "He's just perfect around the cats and smaller dog.  I'm slowly introducing him to the other animals.  So far there has been no problems, he's just eager to play!"

"He hangs out in the house and just kind of follows everyone around.  And when someone comes home, he is the first to the door to say hi!  He's really a great dog."

"I think the best and most different thing since he has been back is the pain.  He is on NO pain medicine at all anymore.  He is a little stiff after he gets up after laying down or if we have an intense therapy session, but he isn't hurting anymore!"

It's great to hear that Lucky is doing so well!  And your continued donations are appreciated.  Northwest Arkansas Animal Rescue still needs a lot of help to cover the $6,000 costs of Lucky's surgery, plus his continued care.  You can donate at the store or you can mail your donations to :

Lucky c/o NWAAR

P.O. Box 7532

Springdale, AR 72766

*All donations are tax-deductible.  Please include your address when sending donations so we can send you a return reciept.

Nature's Variety Recall

LINCOLN, Neb., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ —

Nature’s Variety has initiated a voluntary recall of their Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet for dogs and cats with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella.  The only products affected are limited to chicken medallions, patties, and chubs with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10.  No other Nature’s Variety products are affected.

The affected products are limited to the Nature’s Variety Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet packaged in the following forms:

• 3 lb chicken medallions (UPC# 7 69949 60130 2) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 6 lb chicken patties (UPC# 7 69949 60120 3) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 2 lb chicken chubs (UPC# 7 69949 60121 0) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10

The “Best If Used By” date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions.  The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States, and in limited distribution in Canada.

If you are a consumer and have purchased one of the affected products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement.  If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle.  Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

Nature’s Variety became aware of a potential problem after receiving a consumer complaint. Subsequent testing indicated that the lot code related to the consumer complaint tested negative for Salmonella.  However, additional subsequent testing found the “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10 to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No pet or human illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this lot code.
Reed Howlett, Nature’s Variety CEO, stated, “Because pet health and safety are our top priority, Nature’s Variety takes every step necessary to ensure the quality and safety of our products.  In addition to our industry best manufacturing practices, and in an abundance of caution, all Nature’s Variety raw frozen products now will undergo a ‘test and hold’ period before being released for sale.”

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. Even though no illnesses have been reported, consumers should follow the Safe Handling Guidelines published on the Nature’s Variety package when disposing of the affected product.  People handling raw frozen pet foods may become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not followed the safe handling guidelines set forth by the company.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, or urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the affected product should contact their health care provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers with additional questions can call our dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day,
7 days a week at 800-374-3142.  Or, consumers can email Nature’s Variety directly by visiting naturesvariety.com.

See Nature’s Variety for more information.

Frontline vs. Advantix

Hey Everyone!

As you likely know, we are currently in the midst of our Annual Frontline Stock Up Sale, where you can get Frontline in 3 or 6 month doses for our wholesale cost.  This year we are also offering Advantix in 4 month doses because we've had some customers request it and other customers who tell us that the Frontline isn't effective for them any longer.  I thought this would be a great time to compare the two products and also address a few questions and concerns.  I want you to know that I am not employed by either company nor do I recieve money from either company (other than profits from sales of their products) So, I feel like this is as unbiased a comparison as you will probably get.  I did get the information for this table from the company's respective websites, so take that with a grain of salt if you so choose.  If you'd like further information on either product you can visit their respecive websites, here for Frontline Plus or here for K9 Advantix.    

	Frontline Plus	K9 Advantix
Manufactured By	Merial	Bayer
Active Ingredient(s)	fipronil and (S)-methoprene	imidacloprid and permethrin
How Does It Work?	Kills parasites by hyperstimulation.	The ingredients attack the nerve cells of the fleas/ticks/mosquitos and overwhelm the parasite's nervous system, leading to rapid paralysis and death of the parasite
What parasites does it kill?	Fleas, ticks	Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, chewing lice
How Long Does It Work?	One Month	One Month
How Fast Does It Work?	Kills fleas within 12 hours of contact.        Ticks will die within 48 hours of contact.	Stops biting fleas within three to five minutes and kills them before they lay eggs. Repels and kills mosquitoes before they can bite. Repels and kills ticks before they can attach. Kills 100% of chewing lice within one week.
Available for cats?	Yes	No
Cost?	Dependent on weight, ranges from $41.13-$44.05 for 3 months or $80.68-$86.52 for 6 months	Dependent on weight, ranges from $53.25-$56.91 for 4 months

**Prices listed in this table are our regular prices, right now through February 13th prices are substantially cheaper if you pre-order.

Some of the concerns we see with the Frontline Plus are that people still see fleas in their home after application of the product.  This is actually normal, because Frontline Plus does work by hyperstimulating the fleas, which actually makes them more active, and brings them the the surface of your pet's coat, making them more visible to you. 

It is also possible that you will see fleas after the application of Frontline because they were eggs that were laid prior to your use of Frontline.  I was told by a vet that it's especially common to see fleas after you have been out of town for a while because the eggs hatch when stimulated by the vibrations of you walking which were absent when you were away.

We also see people that are concerned about the harshness of the chemicals in products like Frontline and Advantix.  I agree that it is possible to do damage with harsh chemicals and there are some more natural alternatives, such as citrus, peppermint and eucalyptus.  We do sell sprays and shampoos with these ingredients.  This is a personal choice to be made by each pet owner.  Do be aware that fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance however, they can carry blood born diseases and parasites that can genuinely endanger your pet's life.

Early Valentine's

I don't know about everyone else, but I am over winter.  I am ready for it to be warm and springy and green again.  I am glad to see the sun today, but the combination of icy roads and wintery wind is less appealing.  We are open today, so if you are out and about, stop by and see us.  Walnut is remarkably clear and I was amazed at how clear our parking lot was as well.  Since it's Tuesday, it's Yappie Hour, but since the road conditions are less than favorable, I thought we'd extend our Yappie Hour special for the entire day.  So, Valentine's Treats are 50% OFF all day.  And in case you haven't made it in to check out how cute our Valentine's treats are, I thought I'd include some pictures!

 

Hugs & Kisses (left), Conversation Hearts (right)

 

Valentine's Pretzels (left) Dipped Hearts (right)

 

Okay, so this isn't really treats, but I think the display is cute.  Besides there are Valentine's Pupcakes in the far right corner.

Are You Ready for Round 2?

Hey Everyone!

It looks like winter weather is here again, poised to dump inches of snow on us us overnight.  Are you ready for it?  In order to help you be prepared, we're offering 10% OFF food and 20% OFF everything else** in the store if you tell us you're stocking up for the storm.  This offer is good TODAY ONLY!!!  So, whether you need chews and toys to keep you dog occupied or a sweater to keep him warm, stop in today before the close of business to save money while you stock up.

 

These cute little guys just came in today, but we'll still give you 20% OFF them if you stock up today!

**This discount is NOT valid on Frontline, but you can still pre-order Frontline and Advantix at wholesale prices until close of business Saturday, February 13th.

Our Website Is Down

We are currently in the process of improving our store website to make it easier to use and easier to look at. So, for the next few days you won't be able to order online. We apologize for the inconvenience. In the meantime, please call us at (479) 631-2924 with any questions or orders. We appreciate your understanding.

Sincerely,
The Bigwag Team

Your Winter Weather Pictures

More fabulous winter pictures - keep them coming, we love seeing them and sharing them!

 

Cheri Coley sent this picture of her Border Collie, Chase, playing in the snow

From Susan Bradshaw: Dugan and Julian play in the snow (above), Julian loves to eat snow (below)

 

 

Susan also sends this picture of Cocoa, too short for the snow!

  

  

  

Mindi Dryer sent these three of adorable Izzy enjoying herself in the drifts

From Nancy Gross, Miss Mollie styles the latest fashions for the dog in the snow

 

Miss Mollie says, "This weather is for the birds!" 

Jennifer Tripp says her dog Eagle wants to know - "Hey Mom!  Do I have anything in my hair?"

  

Megan Cuddy sends this picture of Penny playing in the snow...

But tells us Chloe and Penny really don't care for the snow because it's too cold on their feet.

  

  

Eleanor Evans of Rogers sends these pictures of her dog, Sebastian.  She says it is his first snowfall and he loves it!

Your Winter Weather Pics

Hey Everyone!

I'm just going to publish your winter weather pics as you send them to me so that I don't end up holding onto them and posting them in April...  So here is the first of hopefully many.

 

Terri Karel sent this picture of Drake playing in the snow in Bentonville

If you have pictures you'd like to share, send them to sales@bigwag.com!

Winter Weather

Hey Everyone!

We've been closed the past few days due to the weather, but we're planning to open today at 10:30am. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes, we hate not being open, but we want everyone to be safe, including our staff and customers!




On an up note, we have a newsletter coming out this week - look for the annual Frontline stock-up announcement!

Also, we saw lots of great pictures of dogs in the snow over the weekend, send them to us at sales@bigwag.com and we'll post them on our blog. :D