v 6 issue 5: Furry Friends

Calling all animal lovers. We have chosen some fun items that will have your little ones showing off their love for four-legged tail-waggers.


Cover by Chrissi Richards








1 Tag big brother with a short sleeved ringer tee from BBs tees. Each bulldog tee is printed with a soft shaded image of man's best friend and bears a tag that let's everyone know...this is one big brother. Available in light blue/navy or red/royal blue. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off thru 9/26/10.

2 Calling all cat lovers to artebebe.com. Sleek graphics and a large beaded zipper pull add uniqueness to a vinyl backpack with intense quality. Chloe the Cat is the muse for the design, hence the name, Chloe Cat Backpack. The black and white tuxedo kitty is softened with kisses of pink and bright pink adjustable straps. A washable bag which works for all ages. Enter code: TTW15AB for 15% off all bags and clothing thru 9/26.

3 Unbelievably soft! The organic baby onesies from Soft are made of 100% certified organic cotton and printed with eco-friendly water based inks. A stretchy neckline and extra cutting in the arm area increase the comfort and ease of dressing. Soft, safe and sensible. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off thru 9/26/10

4 Generate support for animal rescue efforts through the purchase of I Rescue Rover Apparel. Just one tee can make a difference in the life of a shelter animal. Many dog breeds, and other small animal designs, to choose from. Hip, artistic, and helpful.

5 The pull-along pet from Voila is a purry little friend who reassuringly wags and nods as baby bobbles along on new legs. Wooden with white spots, this cat bears four yellow circular paws for fast paced fun. Simple pleasure granted with minimal effort! Find it @ monkeybeantoys.com

6 Robeez provides soft brown leather booties to wrap the toes of tots in non-slip comfort. Features of these pediatrician recommended shoes include easy slip on/off, ankle elastic to help shoes stay on, and a little 3D visual stimulation provided by an adorable puppy applique with tail and ears which faces the wearer of the shoes. Free Shipping* on orders of 2 pairs of Robeez or more!

7 Learn about all kinds of fuzzy animals through the tail wagging adventures of Barney in Furry Friends. Children will discover how different types of dogs and cats are cared for through the entertaining songs and lessons of Barney, along with his wonderful friends.


Communicate with your dog more effectively
What's the difference between seasoned dog owners and new ones? They can bond with their dogs on a deeper level. They have learned the dog language. It is mostly body language of course, but is important to know if you want a healthy long relationship with your dog.

So, how can your dog speak to you without saying a word? Unless you are Dr. Doolittle, the barks are just noise, but how he moves when he barks is the clue.

* Wagging the tail: When your dog is happily wagging his tail and his tongue, he is in a playful mood. He may even lower the front of his body to the floor and raise his little hind end in the air. He is probably full of energy and ready for play time.

* Ears standing up: Something has caught his attention. He may stop wagging his tail and even lean his head to the side to pay closer attention to whatever is catching his eye. This is not necessarily a call to alarm, but that he has found something new.

* Bearing his teeth: This is considered a show of aggression. He may do this with strangers or when confronting an animal that he feels threatened by or that may be threatening you.

* Lying on the ground with tail down when he greets you – This is a way of greeting you that shows loyalty also. When you walk into the house, your canine companion may lower himself on the ground. This pose is also referred to as an "active submission." He doesn't feel threatened or fearful. It is an act of friendship, realizing that you are the boss and a friend.

Now, your dog makes other noises besides barking. Barking can have many meanings in itself, so we are going to talk about other sounds that your dog may make that you kind of want to be aware of.

* Growling: Your dog shouldn't be growling at you, but he may growl at strangers. It could also be in response to his sensing that you are uncomfortable with someone. If your dog does growl at you when you take something away from him, it could be a play for the alpha position.

* Whining: This is such a cute gesture. Unfortunately it can also be annoying if you are trying to get him to do something that he doesn't particularly want to do, like go to the vet. In these times, ignoring the whine lets him know that it won’t get him out of doing his duty. Whining can also accompany their show of loyalty and greeting.

Are any of these gestures and sounds familiar? If they are, now you can communicate with your dog more effectively. You can "speak" his language.

Showcase: Matilda Jane
Crispy days are here and Matilda Jane has a trunk full of new fall goodies! "Field Trip" is their newest collection and is just full of ruffles...leggings...peasants...and more.

Visit matildajaneclothing.com to see this wonderful collection and host or find a trunk show near you.