Ani-mail Post@ Animal Designs     March 2004
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1.  What's New
2.  Pet Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  What Is This "Bird Flu" I Keep Hearing About?
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Think Spring!!  From cool cotton nightshirts to unique bathroom
makeovers, Animal Designs has what you're looking for.  Stop by and
see what we can make for you @ www.animaldesigns.com   If you don't
see your favorite animal print, just drop us a note with your special
request.

2) PET JOURNALS
HOW TO GIVE YOUR CAT A PILL
1)  Grasp cat firmly in your arms.  Cradle its head on your elbow,
just as if you were giving baby a bottle.  Coo confidently, "That's a
nice kitty".
Drop pill into its mouth.   2)  Retrieve cat from top of lamp and
pill from under sofa.   3)  Follow same procedure as in 1, but hold
cat's front paws down with left hand and back paws down with elbow of
right arm.  Poke pill into its mouth with right forefinger.   4)
Retrieve cat from under bed.  Get new pill from bottle.  Resist
impulse to get a new cat.   5)  Again proceed as in 1, except when
you have cat firmly cradled in bottle feeding position, sit down on
edge of chair, fold your torso over cat, bring your right hand over
your right elbow, open cat's mouth by lifting upper jaw, and pop the
pill in  quickly.  Since your head is down by your knees, you won't
be able to see what you're doing.  That's just as well.   6)  Leave
cat hanging on curtains.  Leave pill in your hair.   7)  Now pull
yourself together.  Who's the boss here anyway?  Retrieve cat and
pill.  Assuming the "who's the boss here anyway" attitude, open cat's
mouth, take pill and... ooops!   8)  Crawl to the linen cupboard.
Drag back on large beach towel.  Spread towel on floor.   9)
Retrieve cat from kitchen counter and pill from plant pot.   10)
Spread cat on towel near one end with its head over long edge.   11)
Flatten cat's front and back legs over its stomach.  Resist impulse
to flatten the cat.   12)  Roll cat in towel.  Work fast.  Time and
tabbies wait for no one.  13)  Resume position 1.  Rotate your left
hand to cat's head.  Press its mouth at the jaw hinges like opening
the petals of a snapdragon. 14)  Drop pill into cat's mouth and poke
gently.  Voila!  It's done.   15)  Vacuum up loose fur (cat's) and
apply bandages to wounds (yours). 16)  Take 2 aspirins.  Lie down.
17)  Cat walks past, gives you "that" look, and spits out pill while
disappearing through the catflap.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Check out our popular baseball style hat.  This flexible brim cotton
cap can be folded and stored until needed and will return to its
original shape.  It is washable, lined and the back has an adjustable
velco closure for a perfect fit.
  See the many pattern choices and select yours today at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv

4)WHAT IS THIS "BIRD FLU" I KEEP HEARING ABOUT?
  Type A influenza viruses can infect several animal species,
including birds, pigs, horses, seals and whales. Influenza viruses
that infect birds are called avian influenza viruses.  Birds are an
especially important species because all known subtypes of influenza
A viruses circulate among wild birds, which are considered the
natural hosts for influenza A viruses. Avian influenza viruses do not
usually directly infect humans or circulate among humans.
Avian influenza usually does not make wild birds sick, but can make
domesticated birds very sick and kill them. Avian influenza A viruses
do not
usually infect humans; however, several instances of human infections
and outbreaks have been reported. When such infections occur, public
health
authorities monitor the situation closely because of concerns about
the potential for more widespread infection in the human population.
Certain water birds act as hosts of influenza viruses by carrying the
virus in their intestines and shedding it. Infected birds shed virus
in saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Avian influenza viruses spread
among susceptible birds when they have contact with contaminated
nasal, respiratory and fecal material from infected birds. While many
of the cases of Bird Flu are being reported in mostly Asia and China,
it could become a reality here in the U.S. If you are concerned
whether or not your dog or cat can contract the Bird Flu, well rest
easy, there is no evidence that bird flu can be transmitted to cats
and dogs. If you own a pet bird or pet chickens you are advised to
take precautionary measures such as keeping your birds in a bird-
proof enclosure (e.g. cage, hen house or a netted area in their
gardens) so that they do not come into contact with wild birds. Also,
owners should not introduce birds of unknown origin to their existing
pet birds.  Anyone who handles pet birds should also practice good
hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly with soap after handling
their pets.
Adapted from the Animal Radio Network  http://AnimalRadio.com.

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to  Karen W.....the winner of the paw print
drawstring bag.  March's drawing is a paw print cosmetic bag .  After
entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
This mont's photo is of  Zack and Coby showing how rough our horses
have it.  We would like to honor your pet next month, so send us a
copy of their photo either by email or snail mail.
February's question was:  Do your pets like to be groomed?   It must
feel good to be groomed as the majority of answers were Yes (168),
Fetch their own brushes (79) with No, run the other way (45)

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
We want to dedicate this newsletter to our very own Louisa who passed
over the Rainbow Bridge.  She will be missed as she was always by our
side.
We want to encourage everyone to give their furry friends extra hugs
and kisses.

  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.tellafriends.com/p?id=2247  Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal
Designs.  It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

Ani-mail Post@ Animal Designs     February 2004
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1.  What's New
2.  Pet Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Peanut Calling
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions
7.  How to Unsubscribe

1) WHAT'S NEW
Happy Valentine's Day to one and all!!  Thanks to everyone who
submitted names for our newsletter last month.  There were so many
good and catchy suggestions, it was difficult to choose.  As you can
see, the name "Ani-mail Post", submitted by Diane S., was the judge's
unanimous choice.
It will still contain your favorite pet stories plus other
information you can use.   Previous newsletters can be viewed at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Animal-Designs/

2) PET JOURNALS
  As a girl growing up on a small southern farm, I probably had a
wider variety of pets than most.  My mother was an animal lover too,
which made
it a little easier to do the "Mom can I keep it?" thing with
success.  As an adult, I continued my collection of pets, which by
now were only the domestic kind -- cats, dogs, hamsters, an
occasional squirrel, a pair of skunk and maybe a bird or two.  That
is, until one warm May evening, when into my home and heart came the
animal that was to forever change my life.  My son was visiting, and
since he is night sport's editor for a newspaper, he's used to
keeping late hours and there was a West Coast ballgame he wanted to
watch.  My fur babies feel they have the obligation of training new
people to the true doggie duties in life.  One of these duties
includes letting them in and out on demand.  (No, they are not
spoiled!)  After about a dozen or more in and out door openings, my
son decided to just leave the patio door open.  Well, you guessed it -
- he fell asleep on the couch leaving the door open.   The next
morning as I came downstairs, my dog Sammi -- all 160 pounds of her --
  accompanied me to the kitchen, to make sure I didn't get lost, and
stopped at the bookcase by the door and started to bark her "one of
my babies is under there" bark.  Sammi's babies can be anything from
a ball to a kitten, but I knew "we" would have to get whatever was
under there or there would be no peace in the house that morning.  I
got down on all fours with Sammi's big ole' Newfoundland head stuck
in the way, trying to see what was there.  There he was, all bristle
and blow, about two months old and scared beyond belief!  A baby
opossum!   He must have fallen off his mom's back and become lost in
the dark,
because he was much too small to be on his own.  I guess he found his
way to the first warm dry spot available.  Fully furred and with
almost all of
his fifty teeth, he did his best to scare away the two monsters.
But, after all, he was only a baby, and I'm a sucker for anything
furry and helpless.
Now, most southerners are not known to be possum lovers and I had
never been a particular fan of them myself.  Like most other people,
I was
under the mistaken opinion that they were mostly rat like -- nasty,
garbage eating smelly things!  Nothing could be further from the
truth!
Sweet Pea (don't laugh) was the sweetest, most gentle and cleanest
animal ever.  They clean themselves as thoroughly as any cat and can
be
trained to use a litter box.  With opposing "thumbs", they grip and
use their hands in a very humanlike fashion.  I had no idea how to
take care of
this kind of baby, so I immediately turned to the modern day
information hub, the Internet.  What little information available on
possums has been compiled by a worldwide network of "rehabbers".
These beautiful selfless people have made it their job to help these
little fellows and to educate the world on what wonderfully valuable
creatures they really are.   That was then.  This is now.  And many,
many opossums later, I am
fully and thoroughly hooked!  I have successfully raised and released
all but two that have been put in my care.  Miss Molly is a non-
releasable due
to an injury to her right shoulder and leg.  But she's my little
princess and an ambassador for her kind.  She and I visit clubs and
schools to
educate people on the good that opossums do in our environment.  We
try to show how gentle and smart they are and that they should be
left alone to dotheir little opossum thing.   People are always
amazed at how sweet and soft and gentle she is.  Now they're hooked
too!  After all, when you live with a princess who has over 75
million years of heritage behind her, you are indeed privileged.
When she accepts you as one of her special people and looks to you
for comfort and affection, well let's just say your life is never the
same again.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep your teapot warm in this cold weather.  This handcrafted cotton
padded tea cozy is washable and adjustable to fit most teapot sizes.
Makes a great gift or addition to your collection.  See the many
pattern choices and select yours today at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv

4)  PEANUT CALLING
When the phone rings at Craig and Sue Harms' house, you aren't really
sure whether or not you should answer it. It may just be Peanut,
their adopted Congo African Grey parrot, doing his telephone ring
imitation. Peanut also mimics telephone conversations - in two
different voices - and he talks from morning till night. Craig and
Sue adopted Peanut after seeing him on Petfinder.com, the largest
searchable database of homeless pets on the Web. His photo and
description were posted by Perfectly Precious Rescue and Adoption in
St. Louis. Their adoptable pets can be viewed at
http://perfectlyprecious.petfinder.com.   Peanut had been
relinquished by a family that no longer wanted him; perhaps they
found out that a parrot is a long-term commitment. Parrots can live
from 20 to 50 years or longer.  When Craig and Sue arrived to meet
Peanut, he climbed up into their arms, nestled against their cheeks
and said, "Hello."  The next thing Peanut knew, he was going upriver -
  in this case to a new home in Illinois.

Petfinder.com has approximately 300 adoptable birds on its Web site,
which highlights about 130,000 pets in all.  In 1998, The American
Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) partnered with
the site to provide shelter outreach and an extensive library of pet-
related materials.
Petfinder.com has also allied with PetHealth, Inc., to provide a gift
of two months of ShelterCare Pet Insurance, paid for by
Petfinder.com, to every dog or cat adopted from a Petfinder.com
member in approved states and provinces. The program is the first of
its kind for shelter pets.
Sources:   Petfinder.com; www.petfinder.com; Happy Tails
© 2004 Animal News Center, Inc.


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to  Lianna S.  ...the winner of the paw print polar
fleece scarf.  February's drawing is a  paw print drawstring bag.
After entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Sheila T. for submitting this month's photo of  Duncan and
Fifi, cute enough to be pet stars!   We would like to honor your pet
next month, so send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail
mail.
January's question was:  Do you support any animal charities?  It is
good to see all your support with (119) Yes votes followed by those
who volunteer their time (46) and (21) no votes.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
This winter salad receipe was submitted by Janet K.  Thanks Janet.
Ingredients:  6 apples, quartered;  8 carrots, cut in three inch
pieces; 2 cups Quaker Oats; 1 cup sweet feed;  Molasses.
Directions:  Combine all ingredients and fold in enough molasses to
make the oatmeal and grain stick to the fruit.  Chill overnight and
serve.

  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320  Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal
Designs.  It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs     January 2004
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  7 Steps to a Happier Pet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions
7.  How to Unsubscribe

1) WHAT'S NEW
Win a $15 Gift Certificate from Animal Designs!!!  Yes, a gift of
your choice.  Just think of a catchy name for our newsletter and send
it to us.  We will be taking entries through Jan 25th, 2004.  All
names are welcome so submit as many names as you can think of.  As we
begin the new year, we also want to thank all our valued customers
for their support and wish you all the best for 2004.  Happy New Year!

2) PET JOURNALS
  Pet Instructions
Dear Dogs and Cats:  When I say to move, it means go someplace else --
not switch positions with each other so there are still two of you in
the way. The dishes with the paw print are yours and contain your
food.  The other dishes are mine and contain my food.  Please note,
placing a paw print in the middle of my plate or food does not stake
a claim for it becoming your food and dish.  Nor do I find that
aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack.
Beating me to the bottom is not the object.  Tripping me doesn't help,
because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything bigger than a king size bed.  I am very sorry
about this.  Do not think I will continue to sleep on the couch to
ensure your comfort.  Look at videos of dogs and cats sleeping.  They
can actually curl up in a ball.  It is not necessary to sleep
perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent
possible.  I also know that sticking tails straight out and having
tongues hanging out the other end to
maximize space used is nothing but sarcasm.   My compact discs are
not miniature Frisbees. For the last time, there is not a secret exit
from the bathroom.  If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to
get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, try to turn
the knob, or get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door
open.  I must exit through the same door I entered.  In addition, I
have been using bathrooms for years, canine attendance is not
mandatory.
The proper order is:  1) kiss me, and then 2) go smell the other
dog'sbutt.  I cannot stress this enough.  It would be such a simple
change for you.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep that cold winter chill away with our door draft stopper.  It
measures 36" X 7", is made of cotton outer shell, stuffed with
polyfill and is machine washable.  This attractive and functional
draft stopper will be the talk of your guests and enhance your decor.

4) 7 STEPS TO A HAPPIER PET
1}Make sure your pet wears an identification tag to enable him to be
returned to you if lost.
2}To prevent destructive animal behavioral problems, make sure you
enroll your new puppy or dog in behavioral training classes.
3}Animal behavioral problems can be health related.  Make sure your
pet has a complete medical exam by a veterinarian at least once a
year.
4}Prepare for disasters.  Make sure you have a plan for your pet in
the event of a hurricane, tornado, fire or flood.
5}Plan for your pet's future in case something happens to you.
6}Learn how to avoid dog bites, and how to prevent your dog from
biting.
7}Have a heart, be smart and make sure your pet is spayed or neutered.
adapted from The Humane Society

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Joanne S ..the winner of the paw print mini-bag.
January's drawing is a paw print polar fleece scarf..  After entering
your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Barbara W.  for submitting this month's photo of  her
adorable goats, Moms & Babes.   We would like to honor your pet next
month, so send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail
mail.
December's question was:  How do you care for your pets teeth?   Lots
of bones & biscuits seems to be the preferred way to care for our
pets teeth with 197 votes followed by the yearly visit to the vet
(88) and brush & floss daily (22)

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A recent question was " Are your products ever on sale?"   "Sales"
are reductions of markups to make you think you are getting a
bargain.  Our items are all custom made by us and priced fairly to
give you the best value, so when you shop Animal Designs you know you
are getting truly unique.

  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320  Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal
Designs.  It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      December 2003
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Holiday Do's and Don'ts
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Best wishes to you and your families, both human and furry, for happy
holiday season. Is the time running out to get that purr-fect gift
for a pet lover?  Why not give them a choice with an Animal Designs
gift certificate.  It couldn't be easier, just click here:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/giftcertificates.htm  and choose the
dollar amount and add it to your order.    You can shop with
confidence knowing that your recipient will receive a truly unique
gift.

2) PET JOURNALS
  Maggie a basset hound was a wonderful and loving dog.  We got her at
6 weeks old and she was a beauty.  On a Thursday night two years
later my husband was playing with her in the house and they were
having a wonderful time.  He said Maggie lets go outside before we
settle down for the evening.  It was dark outside and she saw
something in the road and ran out there and was run down by a van
that kept going.  My husband ran down the road and carried her back
when we had to dig her a grave in our back yard.  It was an awful
night for both of us.  We both didn't want another dog ever, but the
Lord didn't want it that way.  I was at work three weeks later and my
boss's wife was shopping and said that the women across the street
had to get rid of her dog.  I told her I don't want another dog and
called my husband and he said well we don't want the dog to go to the
pound.  We called the lady and she brought the dog to our house not
knowing what kind of  dog it was.  The dog jump out of the truck and
she was a female basset hound with a club foot.  Her name is Ethel
and we have had her for over a year now.  She is the love of our life
and she gives us so much love that we know that God sent her to us.
Thanks to Chris G. for submitting this Pet Journal
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep your feet warm this winter with our soft and cozy slippers.
Made of cotton/flannel outside with polar fleece inner lining, they
are generously padded and have a non-skid sole.  They conform
naturally to your feet and best of all are washable.  To custom make
a pair just for you, select your favorite print at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?
Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=animaldesigns&Category_Code=21

4) HOLIDAY DO'S AND DON'TS
Once again the holiday season is here, there are extra precautions
you need to take with your pets.  Most people think of cats and dogs
getting into everything, but other small animals such as rabbits and
ferrets can easilyget into mischief at this time of year as well.

While you are cooking the turkey, you must remember that even though
turkey isnąt necessarily bad for your pet, any animal that eats
too
much turkey can get an upset stomach or diarrhea.  And, never give
your animal a turkey bone.  Turkey bones can splinter and lodge in
their throat, or even in their
stomach, causing a puncture, laceration, or obstruction.  You should
never allow your pet to chew on these bones. If your pet somehow gets
into the
trash and gets the turkey carcass, donąt try to get them to vomit,
just call your vet immediately.  If your pet vomits bones, this can
actually cut the
inside of his throat.  So, before throwing out the remains of the
turkey, make sure that the bones are securely wrapped so your pet
canąt get to them. This should also include any kind of skewer or
string used to close the turkey as well.  Now it is time to decorate
the tree.  Did you know that this could be a hazard for your pet?
All of those lights, ornaments and tinsel are just too irresistible
for your pet.  You might also want to think about skipping that fake
snow you spray on your tree this year, because it can be toxic to
your pet.  Cats like to climb the tree and not only knock off
ornaments, but also knock the whole tree down.  This can result in
broken pieces of glass where your pet can cut his paws.  To prevent
this, make sure that your tree is anchored to the wall.   And, if you
use any chemicals in the water for your tree, place a cover on it,
such as aluminum foil, so your pet canąt drink it.  Also, dogs
like
to eat ornaments and candy canes, even with the wrappers on.  Try to
put all breakable ornaments near the top of the tree where your pet
canąt reach them, and donąt use glass or edible ornaments. You
should
avoid putting tinsel on the tree, because if ingested, it can
cause serious intestinal blockages. Tinsel can even cut through the
wall of the intestines, and can be deadly!  If you see tinsel, or a
similar object
hanging from your pet's rectum or mouth, do not pull it out, because
you donąt know how far in it goes.  If you believe the animal has
only recently
swallowed it within the past 30 minutes, try to get the animal to
vomit.  This will bring it up before it has left the stomach and gone
into the intestines. If you believe it has been longer than 30
minutes, call your vet right away.  All of the electrical chords for
your tree and other decorations are also a
hazard at this time of year.  Make sure that all electrical cords are
taped against the tree or wall and not lying on the floor.  Not only
will cats and
dogs chew on the chords, but other small pets such as rabbit and
ferrets will chew on them as well.  Do you like to decorate your home
with Mistletoe and poinsettias?  For a long time, everyone thought
that Poinsettias were highly toxic. This is not true.  But,
the "milk" inside of the leaves can cause skin and stomach irritation
and vomiting. Mistletoe, on the other hand, is very toxic to
animals.   With Mistletoe it is the berries that are toxic, and not
the
leaves. And, holly berries are also toxic. Pine needles are also
toxic to cats, because of the pine oil.  For dogs, pine needles are
not poisonous but
can cause stomach upset if a few are swallowed.  If too many are
swallowed, it can cause persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, or
lack of bowel
movements.  If you see these signs, contact your vet immediately.
Liquor and beer, as well as chocolate, are also very dangerous to
your pet.
Your guests may leave food or drinks out where your pets can get into
them.  Dogs in particularly love alcohol and chocolate, and both can
be dangerous, bringing on coma or death.   If you think your dog has
eaten any of these items, look for signs of him staggering, losing
his coordination, and if he is sleeping so deeply you canąt wake
him,
get him to your vet immediately. You must also be careful with
candles.  Not only during the holidays, but also at any time of the
year for that matter.  Make sure that your animal cannot reach the
candles and knock them over. Also be careful of hot
liquids, such as cider, that an animal can knock over.  Both of these
can cause serious burns. With everyone coming and going at the
holidays, it is a good idea to put a sign on both the inside and
outside of your door, stating that you have pets, so that everyone is
careful to close it securely so they canąt get out.  With all of
the
commotion, you might not notice for a while if your pet has gotten
outside.  You might even want to put your animal in a quiet part of
the house while everyone is there. Now is a good time to make sure
that he has a collar with identification just in case he gets out the
door.
Now that the holidays are here, it is time to sit back and relax!
What, are you kidding? You need to decorate the tree, prepare the
guest room, cook
that turkey and make sure your house is pet proof!  Only then can you
sit back, relax and enjoy the holidays. Animal Radio wishes you and
your pets a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Kim E. ..the winner of the paw print plastic bag
holder.  December's drawing is a paw print mini cosmetic bag. After
entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Jane P.  for submitting this month's photo of  Sassy, her
mare who just loves to get her own way (don't we all).  We would like
to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of their photo either
by email or snail mail.
November's question was:  Do you have more photos of your pet or your
spouse?  Without going into much detail or controversy, it appears
that there are alot of photos of our pets out there!

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A recent comment from Silvija Z., one of our valued customers.  "Wow!
I just received the "Wild Horses" fleece scarf I ordered from you and
it far exceeds my expectations!  I can't wait for the horse-loving
recipient to see it on Christmas Day!  Am looking forward to doing
more business with you-SMART move enclosing your catalog on CD with
my order-I'll definitely share it with friends and family.  Happy
Holidays!!!

  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320  Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal
Designs.  It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs November 2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1. What's New
2. Pet Journals
3. Featured Item
4. Famous Quotes
5. Drawing and Fun Stuff
6. Comments-Pet Joke
7. How to Unsubscribe

1) WHAT'S NEW
Looking for a warm stylish accessory? Then you'll want to stop in and
see our latest collection of polar fleece scarves. We have many new
patterns featuring your favorite animals, horses, dogs, cats and
wildlife. These scarves will also be a sure hit for the gift giving
season, so shop early. Choose from a large selection at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?
Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=animaldesigns&Category_Code=20

2) PET JOURNALS
I have had dogs by my side my whole life and have always known a
special bond with them and all animals. I have always known that they
can bring so much to your life, but I never realized that their
unexpected gifts could turn into so much more... Eight years ago, I
developed an anxiety disorder called agoraphobia. It became
impossible for me to leave my home. I could get to the door but not
out of it. I should also mention that I frequently am unable to walk
due to a condition in my back that prevents me from being upright. I
live with four dogs -- Gypsy, an English Springer Spaniel, along
>with three Chihuahuas, Gia, Renny and Nenya. Now, I'm sure you've
heard of therapy dogs who are trained to help a disabled person
become more independent by helping them do normal day-to-day things.
But in my instance, my friends had no formal training. They decided
to help me on their own! So there I was sitting in the doorway of my
room which lets out into our fenced backyard, unable to go any
further. What happened next was amazing. Gypsy, Gia and Renny came to
me and with Gypsy on my right, Gia on my left and Renny slightly
behind me, they each slid under one of my hands. Ren put his tiny
feet on my lap and with gentle encouragement on their faces, and with
a slow movement forward, they urged me out onto the step. Never
moving quickly and never far enough for my touch to leave them, they
helped me out into the yard. That first time was only for a few brief
moments and they stayed right with me until I was safely back inside.
But, with their help, I am nowable to go out into my yard and sit in
the sun and throw a ball for Gypsy or play with Gia, Ren and Nenya.
Gia, the little mother, always comes back to check on me periodically
while we are outside. She gives tiny licks of encouragement. Renny
often puts his little paws on my lap just to keep contact and
reassure me. Gypsy comes back often and puts her front feet on my lap
while her big eyes search my face. They always seem to know when it's
enough and get me inside safely each time. So tonight, when you go
home from work and look into the eyes of love, remember that one day,
those eyes looking back at you may also be the eyes
>and heart of a healer. To Gypsy, Gia, Renny and baby Nenya -- my
profound gratitude for giving me back a bit of the world.
www.petwarmers.com
We all have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail", and we will select one each month to
feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
If you missed our selection of polar fleece scarves, stop in and see
the many new colors and animal prints recently added. Incredibly soft
and warm, generously sized 56" x 9", quality blanket stitching on the
outer edge and machine washable. A very popular item for those cold
and windy days. Choose your favorite scarf from more than 20 patterns
at http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?
Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=animaldesigns&Category_Code=20

4) FAMOUS QUOTES
If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where
they went." - Will Rodgers
"No animal should ever jump up on the dining-room furniture unless
absolutely certain that he can hold his own in the conversation." -
Fran Lebowitz
"The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail
instead of his tongue." - Anonymous
"Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you
are wonderful." - Ann Landers
"There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your
face." - Ben Williams
"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves
himself." - Josh Billings
"The average dog is a nicer person than the average person." - Andrew
A. Rooney
"Dogs love their friends and bite their enemies, quite unlike people,
who are incapable of pure love and always have to mix love and
hate." - Sigmund Freud
"A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three
times before lying down." - Robert Benchley
"I wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird
religious cult." - Rita Rudner
"Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog." -
  Franklin P. Jones
"If your dog is fat, you aren't getting enough exercise." - Unknown
"My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3.00 a
can. That's almost $21.00 in dog money." - Joe Weinstein
"Outside of a dog, a book is probably man's best friend; inside of a
dog, it's too dark to read." - Groucho Marx
"Ever consider what they must think of us? I mean, here we come back
from a grocery store with the most amazing haul -- chicken, pork,
half a cow. They must think we're the greatest hunters on earth!" -
Anne Tyler
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.

5) DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Mary C... the winner of the paw print oven mitt.
November's drawing is a paw print plastic bag holder. After entering
your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Leslie A. for submitting this month's photo of Maybelline.
He's a real cutie. We would like to honor your Pet next month, so
send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail mail.
October's question was "How often do you gift shop for your pet?" It
seems we all shop alot for our pets with pet-shop-aholic the winner
with (193) followed by once a week (157); once a month (118); and
special occasions (87).

6) COMMENTS-PET JOKE
In DC, a guy sees a sign in front of a house: "Talking Dog for Sale."
He rings the bell and the owner tells him the dog is in the backyard.
The guy goes into the backyard and sees a black mutt just sitting
there. "You talk?" he asks. "Sure do." the dog replies. "So, what's
your story?" The dog looks up and says, "Well, I discovered my gift
of talking pretty young and I wanted to help the government, so I
told the CIA about my gift, and in no time they had me jetting from
country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders,
because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping. I was one of
their most valuable spies eight years running." "The jetting around
really tired me out, and I knew I wasn't getting any younger and I
wanted to settle down. So I signed up for a job at the airport to do
some undercover security work, mostly wandering near suspicious
characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings
there and was awarded a batch of medals." "Had a wife, a mess of
puppies, and now I'm just retired." The guy is amazed. He goes back
in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog. The owner says, "Ten
dollars." The guy says, "This dog is amazing. Why on earth are you
selling him so cheap?" "Cause he's a liar. He didn't do any of that
stuff."
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends. http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320 Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal Designs.
It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs September 2003
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
1. What's New
2. Pet Journals
3. Featured Item
4. Flea and Tick Facts
5. Drawing and Fun Stuff
6. Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Have an idea to share or a "pet peeve"? Stop by the Animal Designs
message boards. Here you can discuss your pet related questions,
comments and/or suggestions. We encourage everyone to participate and
ask that you keep it informative and follow the usual guidelines.
Check it out at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/animaldesigns/wwwboard.shtml

2) PET JOURNALS
I received the call last Monday morning from the Chief of
Police. "Donna we have a missing person. He has been missing for four
days. He is a 48 year old man with disabilities and very high blood
pressure. The temperature had been hanging in the 104 range with very
high humidity, making it seem around 111 degrees. Knowing our search
dogs couldn't search in this extreme weather, I arranged to meet the
police at 7:30 Monday evening.
I arrived on scene with four search dogs and handlers. I sent one
team to a cemetery where our missing man liked to ride his bike. I
received a pillow case from the missing man's bed and started another
team with a year old Bloodhound at the end of the missing man's
driveway. The Bloodhound picked up the scent and was on his way down
the street. He made a left hand turn at the intersection and headed
straight for the cemetery where the missing man liked to ride his
bike. Both teams headed for a very dense section of woods behind the
cemetery and entered the woods. Five minutes after entering the
woods, I received a radio call from Team Angel that they had found
the missing man. He was very dehydrated and close to death but alive.
The search had been going on for four days with hundreds of police
and volunteers, and yet, our dogs found him in 40 minutes. Thanks to
Team Angel and Team Gunner, the man is home today safe and sound.
www.petwarmers.com
We all have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail", and we will select one each month to
feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Want a great way to store all those plastic bags you get from
shopping? A plastic bag holder will do the trick. It is a generously
sized cotton bag that can be tied up anywhere. It is washable, 18"
long and 9" wide, with elastic at the bottom and sturdy band at the
top. It would make a perfect housewarming or a gift for yourself. Of
course it is available in a wide variety of animal prints to choose
from. Visit: http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv

4) Flea and Tick Facts
FLEAS..Did you know that there are more than 2,400 different types of
fleas? Fleas have four life cycles: eggs, larvae, pupae and adults,
and female fleas can lay up to 50 eggs a day. While most common
household fleas are not harmful to pets and humans, they can still
transmit diseases such as the bubonic plague. Symptoms of the bubonic
plague include fever, headache, vague discomfort, and very painful,
swollen lymph nodes near the infection site. Sometimes you donąt
actually see the flea on your dog or cat, but you can see the actual
droppings that they leave behind. They look like black poppy seeds.
But, what do fleas actually look like? They are black to brownish-
black, about one-twelfth to one-sixteenth inch long; six legs, with
many bristles on their body and legs; flattened body. They can even
jump as much as seven-eighth inch vertically, and 14 to 16 inches
horizontally.
And what do they like to eat? Blood ­ both yours and your pets
­ and
lots of it. A female flea consumes 15 times its body weight in blood
daily.
Fleas can live on your dog or cat more than 100 days, in which time a
pair of fleas and their offspring can produce millions of flea.
Be careful which type of products you use against fleas, as some only
kill fleas in certain stages of their life cycle. There are hundreds
of products
on the market today, so talk to your veterinarian to find out the
best product to use and how to treat your animal, as well as your
home. To help control fleas, wash your pets bedding frequently and
also, vacuum. Vacuum, often, everything from carpets and rugs to
furniture to remove flea
eggs, larvae or pupae. When youąre done, empty the vacuum bag in
plastic and take it outside to the trash. TICKS...Did you know that
there are 200 different types of ticks? Ticks are not insects like
fleas, but arachnids like mites, spiders and scorpions. Like fleas,
they also have four life cycles: eggs, larvae, nymphs, and adults,
and some females can lay about 100 eggs at a time. Ticks may transmit
diseases to cats and dogs, including the Lyme disease. Symptoms that
your animal might have Lyme disease include lameness, swollen joints,
fever, poor appetite, fatigue, and vomiting. But not all infected
animals show symptoms. While there is currently a vaccination against
Lyme disease for dogs, there is not one for cats. Human symptoms of
Lyme disease include fatigue, chills and fever, headache, muscle and
joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a red, circular skin rash.
Another human disease from ticks is Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
These symptoms include fever, headache, rash, and nausea or vomiting.
It affects more than 500 people each year. What do ticks look like?
They have a one-piece body. They use their mouth to attach to you or
your animal for feeding. When attempting to remove a tick, be careful
so the mouth part doesnąt come off and remain embedded in the
skin.
Grasp the mouth close to the skin with tweezers and pull gently.
Then, clean the bite site and tweezers with disinfectant. You may
want to wear latex gloves while removing the tick. Never remove a
tick with your fingers, as the squeezing further injects infectious
material. Also, donąt try to burn a tick off or to smother it with
petroleum jelly or nail polish. These methods just don't work. To
help control ticks, you should mow your grass regularly. You need to
take appropriate precautions if you are going to take your pets to
grassy, wooded or beach areas. You will need to check your pet
closely for ticks on a daily basis, especially around the head and
inside the ears. If you do find a tick, remove it immediately. This
is important because it can take hours for an infected tick to
transmit disease. With all flea and tick products, make sure that you
read the label carefully, and follow all directions exactly. If you
have any questions or
donąt understand something on the label, ask your veterinarian.
While
these products have many benefits, there are also risks to be
concerned with. If
your animal is pregnant or ill, consult your veterinarian. Also, if
your pet is on medication, check with your veterinarian to make sure
that there are no adverse reactions to the products you are using.
Use flea combs on puppies and kittens that are too young for flea and
tick products. Treat your pet at the beginning of the flea and tick
season. Depending on where you live, this season can last from four
months to even all year round, with September being the worst month
for flea infestation. Tick bites are greater May through September.
Be careful with other small mammals, such as rabbits, ferrets, mice,
etc. They can also get fleas and ticks. Even reptiles, such as
snakes, can get infections and anemia from tick bites. Ask your
veterinarian how to treat fleas and ticks in these and other exotic
pets, as there are currently no products on the market for these
animals. Good luck and good riddance of the fleas and ticks!
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.

5) DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Sherry B. the winner of the paw print eyeglass
case. September's drawing is a paw print travel bag. After entering
your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Connie F. for submitting this month's photo of her adorable
goldens, Ben, Buck and Bo. We would like to honor your Pet next
month, so send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail
mail.
August's question was "Which Pet is Your Favorite" It was a neck and
neck race (pun intended) between dogs (177) and all pets (156), with
cats (112) third. There were votes for others, horses, ferrets, and
snakes.

6) COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A recent customer comment from Sonia M.
"Just a note to let you know my mom received her cowprint visor
today. She loves it! She also loves the dogs matching cowprint neck
adornment too. Thanks so much for the extra effort and personal
touch!"

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends. http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320 Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal Designs.
It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs "When You Want Truly Unique"
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      August 2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Declawing Facts
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Hope you are enjoying your summer.  Just a quick update on our new on-
line store.   We are pleased to announce that the new shopping cart
is in place and ready to take your orders.  If you do have any
questions or problems,  remember help is just a phone call away. Our
toll free number is 1-866-468-1739.  Visit:
http://www.animaldesigns.com   "When You Want Truly Unique"

2) PET JOURNALS
Does anyone remember the song, Norwegian Wood?   Well, if you do,
sing or hum along with these substitute words.  "I once had a bird or
should I say he once had me?"    I will relate my story and let you
decide who had who.  For years we had a male cardinal and his mate
visit our bird feeder.
When they came over to feed, I would talk to them and call him Mr. C
and her Mrs. C.  I don't know how long it took but he became so tame
that he
actually came to our wooden fence or a nearby tree when I called
him.  Our friends would marvel at how he would come when he was
summoned.
I'd just go out in the yard and yell "Mr. C" and he would come flying
from somewhere to about six feet from where I was.  I had to prove it
a lot
because people just wouldn't believe it.  He'd come flying from
across the street or the neighbor's yard.  When Mr. C was on the
ground feeding and I'd put my dog out, he would just hop under a
nearby shrub.  He was a brave little thing and he would fight all the
sparrows for his sunflower seeds.  I had always been told cardinals
were very timid but not him!  He would sit on our wooden fence or
outside on the crabapple tree near our kitchen window and chirp until
I would come out to feed him.  He would also chase the other birds
from the bird feeder.  He felt that was his special domain -- and it
was!   Sometimes I would imitate his chirps back to him and actually
I had gotten rather good at it.  He would chirp three chirps then I
would do
three.  When he'd do four chirps, I would do four.  This always
continued for several minutes when we'd use this unusual type of
communication
between us.  Such a lover was our Mr. C.  He used to feed his wife
sometimes and that was always great to watch.  The interaction
between the two was very sweet.   The pair had their nest built in
our pine tree and we would see both parents coming and going feeding
their offspring.  Once in a while, we would see a baby cardinal come
sit on the ground.  It was cute to watch Baby C. on the ground
wiggling his body with excitement waiting for his
parents to feed him birdseed.  Then, in about a week, he or she was
gone.  Oh, but Mr. C was a delight.  Not only would he come when he
was
called, but he would sit in the tree and watch for our sliding door
to open.  Then he would come and either sing or chirp depending if he
was hungry or not.  One time he even flew from tree to tree following
me in the yard.  What a character!  Mrs. C, on the other hand, was
very timid and would only come after she was sure it was safe.  They
both had been around for years (and I wish I kept track of how long)
to the point that they started to gray around the beak feathers.
Then one day, something very strange took place.  I saw Mr. C. with
another male cardinal.  They would fly from here to there.  Where the
first one would go, the second would follow.  It was odd because I
never had seen another male cardinal in the yard, except the babies.
I saw Mr. C. once more two days later, and then Junior took over and
I never saw Mr. C or his mate again.  I think they went to the
Rainbow Bridge and officially gave Junior the yard.  Now Junior and
his wife are the resident cardinals.  They feed at least twice a day
at our bird feeder, and once in a Blue Moon (or should I say Red
Cardinal Moon?) we are privileged to see some of their offspring
being fed by mom and dad.  I still think about Mr. C and I miss him.
I think he was one of a kind.  But my original question remains, did
I have him or did he have me?
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Looking for that special touch to complete your bathroom?  This fine
porcelain bath accessory set  has a soapdish and pump, toothbrush
holder and cup. Using only the highest quality transfers to hand
decorate each piece, these white bath accessories will compliment any
bathroom decor.  To complete the set  is an adorable bud vase and a
round jewelry box with lid.  To order your favorite design, visit :
http://www.animaldesigns.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?
Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=animaldesigns&Category_Code=12

4) Declawing Facts
Declawing is actually "de-toeing" or "de-fingering": Claw, bone,
tendons and ligaments are amputated to the first knuckle of each toe.
It compromises the feet of an animal who uses those feet to cover up
the most potent urine in the world.  A study of 163 cats that
underwent onychectomy (declawing), published in the Jul/Aug 1994
Journal of Veterinary Surgery, showed that 50% suffered from
immediate postoperative complications such as pain, hemorrhage, and
lameness; and long-term complications, including prolonged lameness,
were found in nearly 20% of the 121 cats who were followed up on in
the study.  In a study published in the January, 2001 JAVMA, 33% of
39 cats that underwent onychectomy developed "at least" one behavior
problem immediately after surgery, with the most common problems
being litter box problems and biting.  In a recent study published
October, 2001, JAVMA by Dr. Gary J. Patronek, VMD, PhD., declawed
cats were at an increased risk of relinquishment.ä [emphasis
added] A
recent national survey of shelters from the Caddo Parrish Forgotten
Felines and Friends indicates that approximately 70% of cats turned
in to shelters for behavioral problems are declawed. It is clear that
declawing a cat by no means guarantees it a home for life; it
frequently results in abandonment at a shelter, on the streets, or
destroyed.  From the Summer 2002 issue of PETA Animal Times: A survey
by a Delaware animal shelter showed that more than 75% of the cats
turned in for avoiding their litter boxes had been declawed.ä
[emphasis added]  In my own three-year experience, 95% of calls about
declawed cats related to litter box problems, while only 46% of
clawed cats had such problems and most of those were older cats with
physical ailments. Of my calls, only declawed cats have cost their
owners security deposits, leather sofas and floorboards. And as
mostly declawed cats that have been prescribed pain killers, anti-
depressants, tranquilizers and steroids. Two-thirds of my calls are
about litter box problems. In 90% of those cases, the cat is
declawed, sick or old. In 7 years, only 3 people have called about a
scratching-the-sofa problem . . .yet countless of healthy declawed
cats have peed on sofas. Complaints (drugs, time, expenses, damage,
losses, etc.) concerning declawed cats were much worse than clawed
cats.
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Cindy G....the winner of the paw print flexible
brim cap.  August's drawing is a paw print eyeglass case.  After
entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Becky G. for submitting this month's photo of her adorable
Jack Russell terrier Ashley.    We would like to honor your Pet next
month, so send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail
mail.
July's question was "Does Your Pet Exercise"   It seems we have alot
of couch potatoes out there (112 ) followed closely by marathon
runners(103), gold medal swimmers (78) and aerobic dancers (51).

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
We are looking for your feedback about your experiences with our new
on-line storefront.  Just drop us a note and let us know what you
think.  Your comments are always appreciated.


  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320  Thank you for
taking the time to tell your friends and family about Animal
Designs.  It is the ultimate compliment and we greatly appreciate it.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      July 2003
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Summer and Pets
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
In the upcoming month, we are implementing a new shopping cart
software package for our on-line store. You know what that means!!!
Please bear with us as this transition occurs. We will do our best to
make sure that your shopping experience goes smoothly.  If you do
experience any difficulty,  remember help is just a phone call away.
Our toll free number is 1-866-468-1739 for your ordering
convenience.  Visit:  http://www.animaldesigns.com   "When You Want
Truly Unique"

2) PET JOURNALS
  I live in an older established area where people regularly walk
their dogs and dogs regularly walk their people.  We even have dogs
that walk themselves.  Every morning, one elderly resident and her
aging pet shuffle by my house.  Both are stooped over as they inch
along.  The woman always carries a coffee cup and walks about six
feet behind her dog.  The animal is attached to a leash that drags
behind him on the sidewalk.  In all the years I have noticed this
pair of friends walk by, I have never seen the woman pick up the
leash.  The pair quietly acknowledges our community leash law that,
in all probability, never states a person has to be attached to the
other end of the leash.  It is common to see children being dragged
along behind dogs twice their size, or pets straining so hard at
their leashes they spend most of the walk at a 45-degree angle to the
sidewalk.  There are the new mothers
trying to get back in shape that run by with the family dog attached
to the baby stroller. This dedication to good health is a mystery to
me but certainly looks impressive.  One man had been out of work for
months and walked by with his beagle, Toby, at least five times a
day.  The endless hours of walking the pet and observing his
neighbors paid off for Toby's owner.  Bob decided to start his own
pooper-scooper business noting several opportunities right under the
dog's nose, so to speak.  Evening is when I see the men of the
neighborhood and their furry companions.  Whether trying to work off
the stress of a busy workday or avoiding a chaotic home life, they
are very happy to be out with man's best friend.  The men will
congregate on the street corners to play with their dogs and
share "guy time".  This surprises me, as the women who walk their
dogs always seem to be on a schedule and rarely stop to chat. With
the recent change in the weather, I have spent the last several days
outside planting flowers.  This has afforded an opportunity to meet
and greet many neighbors and their dogs that have been housebound
during the difficult St. Louis winter.  There is an endless stream of
spring puppies in need of serious training that flop happily down the
sidewalk.  Every spring, I am aware that several of the elderly dogs
did not make it through the cold months.  Sometimes I never see their
owners again.  The pain of losing their faithful friends remains too
great to ever entertain another pet.   Over time, I have come to know
all the dogs of my neighborhood by name.  However, I can only
identify their owners as Denver's mother or Sam's dad.  The
neighborhood canines are well groomed though I wish I could say the
same for their owners.  People will wear virtually anything when
walking their dogs.  I have seen an abundance of mismatched clothing
and ridiculous headgear.  A person who will spend hours brushing and
grooming their pet will neglect to brush their own hair before taking
Fido out for a walk.   Yes, it is true -- a great many pets and their
owners do resemble each other.  The woman up the street with the very
large thighs waddles by with her two hefty bulldogs as the trim
jogger runs along side a sleek Greyhound.  My elderly neighbor with
the gray beard takes daily walks with his gray bearded Schnauzer,
Max.  And the redheaded woman at the end of the block enjoys the
company of two splendid Irish Setters.  The majority of the people
who walk by with their furry friends don't
have the first clue as to what type of collar or leash is appropriate
for their breed of dog, nor do they understand how to train their pet
to walk
appropriately on a leash.  And many forget to carry doggy bags to
pick up pet droppings left in unwanted places on neighbor's lawns.
I could write an entire column on these issues, however, I am aware
of something much more important -- people simply want to spend time
with their dogs.   Young people, old people, young pets, or old pets -
- it is just timeenjoyed -- together.  That is the true beauty of
owning a dog.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Make your picnics the talk of the town with a unique animal print
apron & mitt.  These colorful aprons with a matching mitt are made of
washable cotton and generously sized.  Makes a great gift as well as
being practical in your kitchen and at the BBQ grill.
To order your favorite print visit: http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?p_prodid=1&p_catid=1&sid=6Op7@V0lsCa@3m2-
35103187543.25

4) SUMMER AND PETS
Now that the weather is warming up and summer is finally here, you're
pulling out the old barbecue, filling the pool and putting on all
that sunscreen. But, don't forget about Fido and Fluffy. In the
summer, more pets are taken to the vets because of heat related pet
emergencies. These emergencies consist of dehydration, heat
exhaustion and sometimes even death. The most common emergency occurs
when a pet is left in a car. I know, you will just leave him for a
minute or two while you run into the store and grab a few items. But
when you were in the store, maybe you ran into an old friend and
talked for a few minutes. You need to know that a car can reach a
temperature of between 120 degrees to 140 degrees in a matter of
minutes, and cracking the window doesn't help. Your pet can actually
receive brain damage or even die. And, if you see an animal in a
parked car during the summer, notify the management of the shopping
mall or grocery store. If the owner doesn't return quickly, call your
local animal control or even the police. You think that if your dog
rides in the back of your truck it's better for him? Think again.
Even if he is secured with a rope, flying debris can hit and injure
him. He could even fall out and get dragged by the vehicle. A dog
should either ride inside the cab with you, in a crate or wearing a
seat belt harness designed just for him, or in a secured crate in the
bed of your truck.
Have you noticed in warmer weather you drink more water? Well, so
does your pet. You should keep on eye on your pets' water bowl and
make sure that it's always filled with fresh clean water. If he is
tied up, make sure that he has plenty of shade and is able to reach
his water bowl. I even like to throw a few ice cubes in my cats'
water bowl. It keeps their water cool and they also like to play with
them. When walking your pet, you should keep him on a leash. I know,
he is very well trained and doesn't leave your side. But, he may try
to drink water that is bad for him. In the summer, more people
fertilize their lawns and gardens. These chemicals can be fatal if
your pet ingests them. Also, if he drinks out of the gutter, it can
contain antifreeze. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that animals like,
but it can actually kill them.
Okay, you are at the store buying sunscreen, and of course you left
Fido and Fluffy at home. Go ahead and pick up an extra bottle. No,
not for you, for Fido and Fluffy. I know it's hard to believe with
all of that hair, but your pet can get sunburned and even get skin
cancer, especially if they have light hair and skin. It's okay to use
the same sunscreen you use yourself on your pet. Rub a little on
their exposed areas like the tips of their ears, the skin around
their lips, and the tip of their nose, and make sure that the
sunscreen has adequate protection against the sun. Did you know that
keeping your pet well groomed. If your pet has long hair and it is
tangled, their fur can actually trap the heat in making them even
hotter. You can always clip your dog in the summer months with the
latest "do's" and make them the envy of the other pets in the
neighborhood.  Summertime is also a time of increased physical
activities. If your pet normally exercises with you, be very careful.
If your animal starts panting excessively or seems tired, it's time
to stop.
Heatstroke is very serious and can be fatal. The normal rectal
temperature of a dog or cat is 101F. Signs of heatstroke are:
Panting; Staring;Anxious expression; Refusal to obey commands; Warm,
dry skin ; High fever;  Rapid heartbeat; Vomiting; Collapse
If you see any of these signs, you must act fast. Have someone
contact your vet immediately while you try to lower their body
temperature. You should apply towels that are soaked in cool water to
the hairless parts of their bodies. Sometimes your pet will
immediately respond, but their temperature is still not back to
normal. You should get them to a veterinarian immediately for
treatment.
Ok, now you're ready - go ahead and pull out the old barbecue and
have a safe and happy summer with your pets!
adapted from http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Christine Howell....the winner of the paw print
billfold for June.  July's drawing is a flexible brim paw print cap
After entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Steve C. for submitting this month's photo and caption
of  "cows in the field."   We would like to honor your Pet next
month, so send us a copy of their photo either by email or snail
mail.
June's question was  " Do you take your pets on vacation? "  The
results are...and the question is "who's really getting the vacation
here"... can't leave home without them (144), board at kennel (75),
too many for a vacation (36) and in house pet sitter(29).

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
  Homemade Show Sheen Recipe submitted by JoAnne S....1/4 cup hair
conditioner, 1/4 cup baby oil, 2 tablespoons vinegar (to keep flies
away). 1/4 cup water.

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      June 2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Animal Hoarding
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

>>>>>> A HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO ALL <<<<<<<<

1) WHAT'S NEW
Come help us celebrate our fourth year on the internet!!  Four years
sounds young but on the internet is considered to be an "old
timer".   The time has gone by fast and we have enjoyed working with
our many valued customers.  Reflecting back on our goals, customer
satisfaction continues to be our #1 priority.   A special thanks to
you for being part of our anniversary and any purchase made during
the month of  June will receive a free gift.   "When You Want Truly
Unique" visit:  http://www.animaldesigns.com

2) PET JOURNALS
For all those who have loved and lost a pet or two.
  Some of the most poignant moments I spend as a veterinarian are
those spent with my clients, assisting the transition of my animal
patients from this world to the next.When living becomes a burden,
whether from pain or loss of normal functions, I can help a family
by ensuring their beloved pet has an easy passing. Making this final
decision is painful and I've often felt powerless to comfort the
grieving owners. That was before I met Shane.
I'd been called to examine a 10-year-old blue heeler named Belker,
who'd developed a serious health problem. His owners and their
little boy, Shane, were all very attached to him. They were hoping
for a miracle.
I examined Belker, finding he was dying of cancer. I told the family
there were no miracles left for him and offered to perform the
euthanasia for the old dog in their home.
As we made the arrangements, they told me they thought it'd be good
for the 4-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They thought he
could learn something form the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's
family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for
the last time.  I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any
difficulty or confusion, so we sat together for a while after
Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives
are shorter than human lives. Shane had been listening quietly and
piped up "I know why". Startled, we all turned to him, and what came
out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting
explanation.
He said "Everybody's born so they can learn how to live a good life,
like loving everybody and being nice. Right?" He continued, " Well,
animals already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as
long!"
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our
pets, so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each
month to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Give your kitchen a fresh look with these new kitchen towels with
matching hot pad.  Features easy on/off velcro closure.  This set is
ideal to hang on your stove, cabinets or that special gift for your
hard to buy for friends. Visit the many selections at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html?
catid=11&sid=6Op7@...

4) ANIMAL HOARDING
The compulsive collecting of animals is an under-recognized mental
health problem. In 1999, House Rabbit Society chapters encountered
rabbit hoarders in Minneapolis (>400 rabbits), Sacramento (>200
rabbits) and San Diego (>50
rabbits). Dane County Humane Society encounters a hoarder about
every other year. Caring for these confiscated animals, which are
often in poor health, places a huge, unexpected drain on limited
rescuer resources. Hoarders are often people with good intentions
and love animals. They also
can't say "no" to yet another animal they think needs to be rescued.
Hoarders often have mistaken beliefs about the care and fate of
animals in
shelters; they see themselves as the only person who cares.
Afterward, the hoarder finds excuses not to adopt the animal out to
a good home, and so the animal stays. Eventually, there are too many
animals for the hoarder to care for. Animals fall ill and don't
receive medical treatment; waste is not
removed; and the animal's health is at risk, exactly the situation
the hoarder thought she was preventing!
A recent survey published by researchers at Tufts University found
that collectors frequently see the "rescued" animals as surrogate
children or
love substitutes. They form excessive emotional attachments to the
animals, and they have an abnormal need to control this emotional
aspect of their
lives. Even after the animals are confiscated, the hoarder often
resumes her collecting behavior. Unfortunately, animal hoarding is
not yet seen as a
mental health problem, and agencies seldom coordinate their
activities in resolving a case. In a review of recent cases, the
study found that
three-quarters of hoarders are female; three-quarters are single,
divorced or widowed; over half live alone; almost half are 60 or
older and 37% are
between 40 and 59 years. In 80% of cases, some animals were found
dead or in severe condition, and in three-quarters of cases, the
premises were
unsanitary and overcrowded.
Some warning signs of hoarder behavior:
* the inability to refuse a "needy" animal, despite having too many
at
home
* a refusal to stop rescuing despite a lack of financial and housing
resources
* the unwillingness to adopt the "rescued" animal to good homes, and
finding excuses to reject applicants
* the inability to care for the animals, physically and emotionally
* having mistaken beliefs about the hoarded animals' needs, and
about
shelter alternatives
* avoiding behaviors that will expose the hoarder, such as inviting
guests to the home
What distinguishes a rescuer from a hoarder? As rescuers, we know
that we have limits. We can't rescue every animal, but we will help
those we can. We know that an adoptive home is much better at
providing the love and care that a companion animal needs. Moreover,
placing a rabbit into a permanent home creates a space for rescuing
another abandoned bunny. Hoarding doesn't solve the problem; it only
creates a larger one for real rescuers at a later date.
{adapted from http://AmericanHumane.org and
http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.)

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Dennis J., the winner of the paw print cell phone
cover for May.  June's drawing is a paw print billfold.  After
entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Keith A. for submitting this month's photo and caption of
JR.
"JR is the love of my life--he is dedicated, loyal, loving, and
sensitive to me. He sticks with me like glue".
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photo either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
We've  had several readers wanting to know  the results of the
question of the month.
May's question was "Where does your pet sleep?"  Well it seems the
majority share the same sleeping space with their pets-in my bed
(119), followed  by everywhere(73), own bed (44) and outside(16).
Thanks for your suggestion and future poll results will be included
in the drawing and fun stuff area of the newsletter.

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      May2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  What To Do When Your Pet is Lost
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions
7.  How to Unsubscribe

>>>>>> A HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL <<<<<<<<

1) WHAT'S NEW

Looking for those special accessories to complete your bathroom?
Animal Designs now offers a fine porcelain bath accessory set
available in your favorite pet or animal.  This beautiful set has a
soapdish and pump, toothbrush holder and cup. Using only the highest
quality transfers to hand decorate each piece, these white bath
accessories will compliment any bathroom decor.  To complete the set
is an adorable bud vase and a round jewelry box with lid.  To view
these new products, visit www.animaldesigns.com/bath-
accessories.com
As with all of our items, contact us if you want another pet or
animal design.  We welcome special orders.

2) PET JOURNALS

According to the weatherman, spring has finally sprung.   But
according to the animals in my barn, the local meteorologists are
about thirty days late.
  For in mid-March, we had a wealth of births on my farm.  To the
point that I started to feel like a nurse in a barnyard maternity
ward each time
I ventured out to feed.   The good news is that all arrived safely
and sound.  A few minor hitches in my mare's delivery, but
fortunately nothing too complicated or life threatening.  This year's
foal, a filly, was born on the 13th of March.  She is the thirteenth
that I've bred.  An unlucky number for some, but for me, a fortuitous
total.  For this young filly is a life changer. Let me explain.  I
used to train horses as a "part-time" job.  One of those situations
that was supposed to take up only a portion of my life but ended up
consuming it.  For ten years, I worked shoulder to shoulder with a
veteran horseman who trained me right along with the horses.  He was
a man totally consumed by his trade, as horse trainers tend to be,
and he spent
many hours talking about his passion while we worked.  Out of all the
conversations we had over the years, one particular one came to mind,
when this thirteenth foal arrived.  For from the minute she fought
her way out of the birth sac and nickered her arrival to the world,
she was special.  Not an "owner's pride" special, but a "significant
to theworld" special.  To describe her, she is bay in color.  For the
uninitiated, that would mean a brown body and a black mane and tail --
  the ultimate choice for a horse of her Morgan breeding.  Her legs
were longer than her mother's from the first time she stood and the
tops of her ears gently tip in toward one another in graceful
refinement.  She has a neck that is long and arched and an athletic
ability to balance her wealth of beauty.   But, it's the
characteristic that has slowly revealed itself over the last month
that makes this filly so remarkable.  For as her baby fur has shed
out, it is becoming increasingly obvious that she is not going to be
a bay horse, as she originally appeared.  But instead, she is black --
  deep, dark, coal black.  Without a mark of white on her body
anywhere. This color transformation has come as a shock, as I watch
her medium brown color slowly dissolve into an unexpected ebony
tone.  Any other black foals born on the farm have had their color
right from the start.  But then again, as I stated, this filly is
special. Which brings me back to the remembered conversation with the
old trainer.  One that took place in the barn, on a particularly cold
winter morning, while I was grousing about my frozen fingers and
toes.  He listened to my whining for a while and then looked me in
the eye and predicted that one day, I would have a horse that would
make me want to get up and go to the barn every morning, no matter
what.   I have a funny feeling that with this lucky number thirteen,
that horse has finally arrived.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM

With spring here and summer not far away, a cotton nightshirt will
help keep you cool.  This featured item is made of all cotton,
washable and generously sized for comfort, one size fits all.  Select
your favorite from an assortment of animal print designs.  Visit the
collection at:  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=21&p_catid=2&sid=6Op7@...

4) WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR PET IS LOST

According to a 1997 study of 1000 animal shelters, conducted by the
National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, approximately
one million dogs and 584,000 cats were taken in as strays.
Unfortunately, for both owners and animals, only 16% of dogs and 2%
of cats were returned to their owners. These statistics are alarming.
Tag Day is a major effort by American Humane to combat these
statistics. We want to educate consumers on the benefits of
identifying their companion animals with ID tags, license tags, micro-
chipping, or tattooing. Identification is your pet's ticket home. If
your pet does become lost, don't delay. Take the following steps to
help bring your companion animal home to safety: *Act fast!! Don't
wait days hoping your pet will come home. The sooner you begin your
search, the better the odds of finding him. *Search your neighborhood
or area where your pet was lost and let people know she's missing.
You may want to offer a reward. Call your pet's name and check any
places she could have become trapped, such as in basements, garages
or under vehicles. A lost pet often will hide during the day, so be
sure to go out again at night with a flashlight and them. Sometimes a
can of food can lure a hungry and scared pet. *Check with your local
shelters every day. Don't just call -- also visit the
shelter to search for your pet. Many animals are difficult to
describe over the phone, and only you really know what your pet looks
like.. *Call all animal control agencies in your town and surrounding
areas. Animal control officers work through the police department and
pick up stray
animals. Call them or check their shelters at least every two days.
*Use your pet's photo to make "lost pet" signs. Put them up in your
neighborhood and in post offices, libraries, pet supply stores,
veterinary offices and grocery stores. Inform your veterinarian and
groomer that your
pet is lost in case they receive a call. *Place ads in local
newspapers and offer a reward in case someone found your untagged pet
and was thinking of keeping her. *Watch the found ads. Respond to any
that might be close to your pet's description. A week of wandering
the streets can make white pets look drab gray, and the ad's
description might not exactly fit. *Call your local radio stations.
Some radio stations will broadcast lost pet information for free.
Give them very detailed information on where your pet was lost, his
description and how to contact you. Tag Day is a national public
awareness campaign that unites thousands of local shelters,
veterinary clinics, animal care and control agencies, and other
humane agencies in the common goal of educating pet owners about the
benefits of tagging their companion animals. To help promote this
event in your community, contact your local shelter to help in their
efforts. Everyone can help by identifying their pet or encouraging
others to do so. An ID tag is you pet's one-way ticket home. Make
every day Tag Day, and join our efforts to increase the number of
animals returned home.
{adapted from http://AmericanHumane.org and
http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com.)

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF

Congratulations to Kate C.... the winner of the visor for April.
May's drawing is a paw print cell phone cover.  After entering your
name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Patricia B. for submitting this month's photo of Blacky, a
real bundle of soft fur and cuddles.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photo either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS

A recent question from one of our customer's asks  "Can you put a
personalized card with the item as it is a gift for a special
occasion?".  Yes, we will be glad to make a card with that special
personalized greeting.  Just let us know what you want to say and we
will take care of the rest.

7) HOW TO UNSUBSCRIBE (Sorry to see you go)
If you no longer wish to be on our mailing list or receive any
updates about products,  please reply to this email with unsubscribe
in the subject line.  You will be removed within 24 hours.

  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      April 2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Sense of Smell
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

**Please complete our survey ** http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?
7RHWFKR62M4FVA5447HDP70K

1) WHAT'S NEW
You have heard the latest news about online privacy and security.
Simply put, Animal Designs does not disclose any information about
you to anyone.   It has come to our attention that our email /domain
name is being used to send spam mails and be assured that it is not
sent from us.   In fact, we even received a spam email from
ourselves!! We are fully committed to making your shopping
experience safe, secure and always enjoyable.  Visit us now at
www.animaldesigns.com.

2) PET JOURNALS
A couple of years ago, I wrote about my beloved Sissy.  She was an
abused Shepherd mix that had adopted us and lived to the ripe old
age of 16.  Many of your readers may remember the story of how Sissy
left me two mice as presents after she died.  I knew this meant she
was happy and able to run and chase mice again.   I had to write
again to tell you that if anyone doubts that their pets have spirits
that live on, they need to hear our latest... About a week ago, I
spotted a mouse in our house.  This wasn't your everyday, run of the
mill mouse -- he was VERY bold and would come out in
the middle of the day and run across the room in plain sight!  When
Sis was alive, we never had a problem because she was such a good
mouser and would catch the mice for me.  One night, she actually
caught a mouse in the bedroom and knocked it into a wastebasket at
the bottom of the bed!    I thought our newest addition, who is an
Alaskan Malamute/Husky mix, would be a good mouser as well, since
she loves to chase the squirrels and
other small animals in the yard.  Unfortunately, she just ignored
this little guy, even when he ran right in front of her!  After
trying for several days to catch this elusive mouse, I was sitting
at the dining room table one evening and saw him scurry across the
floor.  I said out loud, "OK, Sissy where are you?  I'm tired of
this mouse.  I wish you'd catch it!"  About a half hour later, I was
taking my bath and my husband came up the steps and exclaimed, "What
in the world?  There's a dead mouse out here in the hallway!"  Sis
never hurt the mice she caught while she was alive and there were no
marks on this mouse to indicate the other dogs had caught it.  The
mouse was right outside the bathroom door and still warm!  I know
some folks would say this is just a coincidence but both of my dogs
had been outside and had just come in.  In fact, they came up the
steps just ahead of my husband!
  So... you can draw your own conclusions, but the next time I spot a
mouse in my house, I know who to call!
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our
pets, so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each
month to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Does your bathroom need a new look for spring?  Why not start with a
shower curtain and matching toilet cover set available only from
Animal Designs.  Have a different animal print in mind?  Then
contact us and have your custom order made just for you.  Click here
to view our many selections http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=24&p_catid=19&sid=6Op7@...

4)Sense of Smell
  Cats and dogs have an incredible sense of smell.  It is believed
that some dogs and cats can smell the odor of their own kind from as
far away as one and one-half miles. More if the wind is blowing in
the right direction. Humans have very poor smell. But, humans do not
need to have a good sniffer. Cats and dogs on the other hand, must
to have a great sniffer.  Why do cats and dogs need such a great
snoot? Because to them, scent marking is very important.  Both cats
and dogs scent mark. This is like leaving a calling card. When scent
marking, a dog will urinate on an object and then scrape the ground
around the object. Both actions leave the scent of the animals
behind. When you take your dog for a walk, what does your dog do?
Your dog marks posts and rocks and all sorts of things. I know one
dog that marks peoples legs. Before your dog marks these things,
your dog will smell them. After your dog has sniffed a little, your
dog may mark. Cats leave all sorts of markers in the wild. Many
times these take the form of urine and feces. I know, not pretty,
but if you are living in the woods and you need a way to let others
know you passed by, this works.  Many scientist believe cats and
dogs leave scents to mark their territories.  Scientist also believe
that dogs and cats can tell how long ago something was marked by
another animal.
You may have seen your cat or dog slowly rise and stick its nose
into the wind and start sniffing. Cats and dogs use this technique
to catch the smell of other animals.  Dogs and cats also use smell
to determine when it is time to have babies. When the female is
ready to have babies, she puts out a smell that calls the males. And
to answer your question, sort of, Cats and dogs also use smell when
they greet each other. From the sense of smell a cat and dog seem to
be able to determine:  Who you are; If you have walked down a
certain path; How long ago you were on that path; and Which
direction you were going.
  Adapted from Animal Radio Network. Visit
http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Patsy M. the winner of the mini-bag for March.
April's drawing is a paw print visor.   After entering your name,
check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Cindy L. for submitting this month's photo of Gambler, her
short-haired kitty and quite a handsome fellow.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photo either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A reader's suggestion for a simple fly repellent may be Bounce
fabric softener sheets.  Next time you go riding, tie one to your
horse's headstall and stick one in your back pocket. Works better
than any fly repellant she has every used.


  As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions
and we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs The Gift Place for Pet Lovers
http://www.animaldesigns.com
Ph. 1-866-468-1739

1) WHAT'S NEW
Ready for Spring?  How about a  free gift to celebrate.  Between now
and March 20th the countdown to spring is on.  Just place an order
and you'll receive a surprise animal print gift.  For your "spring
surprise" visit us now at www.animaldesigns.com/

2) PET JOURNALS
It is one of those mornings when the world seems to cry, "CHIRP!
The migrating birds have started to trickle into my yard and the
winter visitors have not left it yet.  I walk to the bird feeders and
begin to fill several of them with black oil sunflower seeds.  The
ice crunches under me.  The tree nearest the feeders is encrusted
with ice like a thick varnish on the bark.  The snow is melting
rapidly.  After filling the feeders, I walk a short distance away,
stand still as I possibly can and watch.  I am more than willing to
watch anything that appears.  The birds check me out for a short time
and then deeming me not worthy of their fear, they fly into the
feeders.  The chickadees are the first to sample the new seed.  They
declare it to be good and the parade of birds begins.  My shoelaces
have knots in them, my blue jeans have frayed cuffs and my old work
shirt has a torn pocket, but for a moment, just a moment, I feel as
though I am as regally dressed as any king has ever been.  Watching
the hungry birds and their feeding frenzy has made me rich. There is
no need for me to look for what is hidden here in my yard.  The birds
show themselves freely.  I marvel at the tiny Black-capped Chickadees
that come to my bird feeders.  They come every day on trembling
wings. They arrive each morning with a burst of energy and
enthusiasm.  A guest that any host would always welcome.   These
little birds are not uncommon, but I still watch them in amazement as
though they were the world's rarest birds.  I have become too old not
to be impressed by most everything I see in nature.  I see things
today and these things that I see are immediately mixed with my
memories. The chickadee causes me to remember the places I walked as
a boy -- the places where the ice crunched under my boots.  The
places where trees were encrusted with ice like a thick varnish on
the bark.  These places still exist in my mind.  I watch the
chickadees take turns grabbing a seed.  I can't help but smile.  The
result of all of this is an ability to be greatly entertained by the
feeding antics of one small, gray, white and black bird.  For this
blessing I am most thankful.
www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Check out this smartly styled handcrafted cotton hat with flexible
brim.  Can be folded and stored in your pocket or purse until needed
and it will return to it's original shape. Washable, lined and the
back has an adjustable velcro closure for a perfect fit. Available in
a variety of animal prints.
Click here to view the selection http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4) Myths and Facts
Myth:  Spaying or neutering will make my pet fat.
Fact:   Nope!  Overeating makes your pet fat.  After spaying or
neutering an animal may relax more because it is no longer looking
for a mate.  You may need to decrease the amount of food you are
feeding and find ways of exercising your pet so that it will continue
to burn fat.  Spaying or neutering is good for your pet and will help
it live an average of two to three years longer than an unsterilized
pet.
Myth:  Spaying or neutering will change my pet's personality.
Fact:  Any slight changes will be for the better.  No matter what age
an animal is altered, it will remain a caring, loving, and protective
companion.  Neutering reduces the need to breed, and that has a
calming effect on many animals.  Neutered males tend to roam and
fight less and have less of a desire to mark their territory.
Myth:  Neutering will make my dog too nice.  I want him to protect my
family.
Fact:  Don't confuse aggression with protectiveness.  A neuter dog
protects his home and family just as well as an unneutered dog.
Myth:  Sterilization is dangerous and painful surgery for my pet.  I
don't want to hurt him.
Fact:  Spaying and neutering are very common surgeries.  With some
tender love and care after surgery, your pet will resume normal
behavior in a couple of days.
Myth:  A female should have a least one litter before she is spayed.
Fact:  A female has a greater likelihood of developing mammary tumors
or uterine infections if unspayed.  Finding homes for just one litter
can be difficult and add to the number of unwanted animals in the
world or take a family that another unwanted animal may have been
placed in.
  Adapted from Animal Radio Network. Visit
http://AnimalRadioNetwork.com

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Janice M...  winner of the billfold for February.
March's drawing is a paw print mini-bag. After entering your name,
check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Betty T.... for submitting this month's photo of Charlie,
the love of her life and  truely a best friend.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photo either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
Q:  I wanted a kitchen towel and hotpad set in a rooster print.  Can
you make this?
A:  Yes, we make every effort possible to locate your special animal
print request.  Usually we can find the fabric and then will send
photo samples electronically from which you can make your choice.

7) HOW TO UNSUBSCRIBE (Sorry to see you go)
If you no longer wish to be on our mailing list or receive any
updates about products,  please reply to this email with unsubscribe
in the subject line.  You will be removed within 24 hours.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs
www.animaldesigns.com
1.866.468.1739

What's New @ Animal Designs      February 2003
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Looking for that purr-fect gift for a pet lover but unsure what they
like? Why not give them a choice with an Animal Designs gift
certificate. It couldn't be easier, just click here
www.animaldesigns.com/giftcertificates.htm  choose the dollar amount
and add it to your order. You can shop with confidence knowing
that your recipient will receive a truly unique gift.

2) PET JOURNALS
It was a warm spring evening and we were all in the barn, cleaning
stalls and getting ready to feed the animals.  My son came back in
from dumping the wheelbarrow with a funny look on his face.  He
said "Mom, I think you'd better have a look outside."  I walked over
to the big door at the end of the barn and as I rounded the corner I
froze.  Seven foot flames were roaring through the neighbor's field,
straight toward our pastures and barn.  I was terrified!  All the
horses were in the upper pasture.  I had to get them down to the barn
and FAST.  Thank goodness for mares with a little common sense.
Gypsy, our pony mare (and lead mare of the herd) came sauntering down
to the barn with the other three girls trailing behind her just as I
turned to start shouting directions to the kids.  I put the kids to
work putting the girls up.  That just left Okie, my then four year
old stallion, and Cappy, our 12 year old gelding up in the far corner
of the upper pasture.  By now, the flames were licking hungrily at
the old wood of my fence posts in the upper section.  I was getting
worried.  As I whistled for our shepard/rott, CJ, and started for the
upper section, my husband and the fire trucks all pulled in.  Mark,
my soul mate, saw where I was headed and tackled me on the spot.  By
now the flames were well into the pasture.  I was flummoxed.  How
would we ever get the boys down out of there now?  All I could think
of was CJ.   I whistled and yelled, "CJ, bring 'em home!"
That was his nightly signal to gather up the herd and bring them to
the barn and then I prayed and cried.  CJ, a dog to never give up,
ran right up through a rapidly closing gap and rounded up the boys.
By the time he got them headed back down to the barn, his gap had all
but closed.  He just kept at the two of them, determined to get them
home like I had asked.   He managed to get them through, barely,
although he burned his feet
and his whiskers doing it.  He took them down and put them right into
their stalls, then took up position with my husband, fighting
satellite fires
until the firepersons got to our place and put them out.  CJ is gone
now of old age, but his son is in my backyard and he will
always live in my heart.  Without his help that day, I would have
lost Okie, my stallion, my best friend and riding buddy.  The guys at
the firehouse called him amazing and that year, CJ rode on the lead
fire truck in our yearly community parade.
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep your brewed tea piping hot with a custom tea cozy available in a
wide variety of animal prints. This handcrafted cozy is washable and
adjustable to fit most teapot sizes.  Makes a great Valentines Day
gift or perfect addition to your collection..  Click here to view the
selection http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4)ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"I read in one of your past columns about using ginkgo
for cognitive disorder. However, I also recently heard that a new
study showed that ginkgo was not effective when tested in people.
Could you address this issue in your column and tell me what's the
current status of this herb?"
A:"Ginkgo is one therapy that has been proven to be of benefit in
people with mild cognitive disorder, and is one of the supplements I
recommend for dogs and cats with this problem as well. Currently, my
favorite treatment of cognitive disorder is choline supplementation
plus B vitamins and antioxidants; ginkgo is another option I
occasionally recommend. The study you mention was done by the NIH in
2001. In the study, 230 people over age 60 were given memory tests
and their scores recorded. Then, half of the people were given a
placebo and half were given a ginkgo biloba supplement for 6 weeks.
Following the 6 weeks, all participants were then retested on the
memory tests and their scores recorded. The scores following ginkgo
supplement were no better than those folks on placebo or the scores
given at the start of the 6 week trial period. The NIH concluded that
ginkgo did not improve scores on memory tests, and this is what the
media reported. Unfortunately, there is more to this story than this
simple conclusion. Holistic doctors like me were not at all surprised
at the conclusion, because ginkgo does not work in normal people to
make them smarter  Ginkgo has a long history of helping people with
early cognitive disorder however, and it is for this purpose that it
is most commonly prescribed. So while the study confirmed that ginkgo
does not help normal people improve their memory, the study did not
address the fact that ginkgo is not needed by normal, healthy people
but does help those with impaired mental ability. While the NIH did
not test ginkgo in pets in this study, many holistic veterinarians
and herbalists do believe that ginkgo can be helpful for pets with
cognitive disorder.  It is wise to always question any medical
reporting and try and get all of the facts."
Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural
Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.  Please address questions to him at
Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, 2145 W. Park Blvd., Plano, Tx, 75075 or
email him at naturalvet@...

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to ...winner of the kitchen towel and hotpad set for
January.  February's drawing is a paw print billfold.   After
entering your name, check out the rest of the fun page at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Kathy S. for submitting this month's photo of her bird
Einstein, never camera shy.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photo either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A recent customer comment from Joy F.  "I received the purse you made
for my daughter and I am simply delighted.  It is truly a beautiful
piece of art.  She will be thrilled.  Thanks ever so much for all
you've done.  You will be hearing from me in the future I am sure."

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      January 2003
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
You'll notice something new on our web site, the Better Business
Bureau On-Line Reliability seal.  The BBB symbol is recognized
worldwide as the standard for good business practices. This
guarantees that you can continue to shop with confidence at Animal
Designs.  Our goals for this year are to offer the best products and
continued individual attention to each and every customer.  We wish
you the best for 2003 and a very Happy New Year!

2) PET JOURNALS
The term of "syndrome" seems like it's attached to most everything
these days and is generally viewed as negative. However, in the world
of owning pets, I've got a new one I call P.L.U.S. -- otherwise known
as Pets Love Unconditionally Syndrome. If you're lucky enough, you've
been on the receiving end of this syndrome. In past stories, I've
written about my Yellow Lab, Amy, because she is so much a part of my
everyday life. Morning, noon, night, writing, singing, working inside
or out -- it just doesn't matter as long as she's with you. She's
clearly got the syndrome. Because she is aging and has several health
problems now, we've gotten even closer. The fact is, I need to be
next to her as much as she needs to be next to me, maybe even more.
Someone recently asked me, after losing their precious pet, why it
hurts so bad -- even as much as losing a person. I feel the answer
lies in our pets' ceaseless, unconditional love. How could anyone not
be devastated by such a loss. Our pets don't follow the humanistic
guidelines for giving and receiving love. They truthfully accept us
exactly as we are and even love us for it. It's as if the judgement
gene was left out and they got a double dose of the happy gene. Have
you ever scolded your pet or just plain been impatient with them? We
all have and this is where the P.L.U.S. really shows its stuff. For
instance, maybe their need to be next to us means we're literally
tripping over them just to walk across the room. And maybe that's
followed by a few words of disgust spouted off at them. But perhaps,
in that moment of our scolding them, we should look a little deeper
to see if it was the very pedestal they put us on, that we really
tripped over. Maybe if we paused, just in that moment as they walk
away with ears down and tails tucked, we'd realize we're the culprit
here -- that in our own hurriedness, or lack of being in touch with
ourselves, is what truthfully made us stumble. How many times have
you crossed that room and not tripped over them? This of course comes
just before we feel miserably guilty and call them to come back over
to us -- which they do at just about the speed of light. Are they mad
at us? No! They've got P.L.U.S.! Being around P.L.U.S. also helps us
complete chores that may not otherwise get a passing thought. For
instance, our two dogs tore out the screening in a spot on our
enclosed patio. We immediately replaced the screening, but also cut,
sanded, painted and installed 4 rows of railing as added security.
Moreover, after 10 years of procrastinating, I finally got rid of
some unwanted gravel so it would be easier on their feet and
arthritic joints. I keep looking for a reason why the dogs would need
new tile on my kitchen countertops! In this world where everything
has become so disconnected and we've been reduced to some kind of a
number on the phone's keypad for customer service, our pets have
become even more vital to our everyday existence. I believe if we
could just follow the guidelines of our pets in their unconditional
loving, the world would be full of purring, tail-wagging, happy to be
alive folks. Maybe a synonym could be given to the abbreviation of
P.L.U.S. I'd call it "People Loving Unconditionally Syndrome". What a
world this would be!
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
The featured item this month is our soft polar fleece scarves
available in a great selection of animal prints.  They are generously
sized 56" x 10", blanket stitching on the outer edge and machine
washable.  Better hurry as supplies are limited, click here to
order:   http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html


4)ASK THE VET
Immune System Support in Pets
Shawn Messonnier DVM
author, The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, Prima, 2001
One of the most common questions I get is this:"What do you recommend
to boost my pet's immune system?" Using nutritional supplements to
boost the immune system in times of illness is very important for any
sick pet.
While supplements can be used to support the immune system during any
illness, I am most often asked to prescribe something for pets with
the following problems:any infectious disease (especially feline
respiratory
disease, kennel cough, distemper;) cancer; mange; and any condition
in older pets that just "aren't acting quite right." In this article,
I'll discuss some of the more commonly used immune-boosting
supplements, along with recommendations on how to keep your pet's
immune system acting as healthy as possible all year long.
Antioxidants are among the most commonly used supplements to help
pets with a variety of medical disorders. Antioxidants are specific
vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin E) and plant and animal
compounds
(bioflavonoids such as grape seed extract, quercetin, coenzyme Q-10,
ginkgo biloba) that are responsible for maintaining health.
Technically, they do not boost the immune system (although
proanthocyanidins appear to
potentiate the immune system via enhancement of T-lymphocyte activity
and modulation of neutrophil and macrophage responses) but rather
clean up the products of cell damage (oxidizing chemicals.)
Antioxidants also
decrease various chemicals (histamine, interleukin, tumor necrosis
factor) that cause cell damage. Because antioxidants minimize damage
to cells, they are useful whenever disease is present and immune
support is
needed. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia, E. pallida)
is the most commonly known immune stimulant which also functions as
an antimicrobial (antiviral and antibacterial) herb. In people,
echinacea is the
number-one cold and flu herbal remedy. There are a number of classes
of pharmocologically active chemicals in echinacea, including
polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid, essential oils,
alkylamides, and polyacetylenes. Currently, to prevent long term
immune system problems, most doctors recommend using echinacea for a
short period of time (3-4 weeks) followed by a resting period (3-4
weeks) before the herb is resumed.
Arabinogalactans are polysaccharides mainly derived from larch tree
(Larix occidentalis.) Studies have shown that these compounds may
enhance natural killer cells and cause a release of interferon gamma.
Arabinogalactan has strong immunostimulating and anti-inflammatory
properties. Arabinogalactans can be used as part of the integrative
approach to cancer treatment and anytime immune stimulation is needed
(viral, bacterial, or fungal diseases.) The product ImmunoSupport by
RX Vitamins for Pets is the only arabinogalactan product currently
available. Purine nucleotides are the final class of supplements that
can be helpful for pets needed immune system support. These compounds
are involved in virtually all cellular processes and play a major
role in structural,
metabolic, energetic and regulatory functions. Like arabinogalactans,
they have been shown to stimulate the activity of natural killer
cells.  Purine pyrimidine complexes are the active fractions found in
colostrum, the first milk produced by mammals. Colostrum contains
cytokines and other protein compounds that can act as biological
response modifiers. Research supports its use in the treatment of
rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as well as other autoimmune
conditions. Nucleotides also may play an important role in essential
fatty acid metabolism, and may have a positive effect on the
functions of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. Nucleotides
are usually given to pets in the form of colostrum or a product
called Transfer Factor.
Maintaining a Healthy Immune System
While supplements can be used in times of illness, maintaining a
healthy immune system is important in decreasing the incidence and
severity of disease. Follow the following tips to keep your pet as
healthy as possible.
1.Feed the most natural diet possible. Learn to read a pet food label
and avoid foods with chemical preservatives (BHT, BHA, ethoxyquin)
and animal and plant by-products that can damage a pet's immune
system and do not
help maintain health as much as foods with natural preservatives and
no by-products. When possible, prepare and feed a homemade diet
(using on of the recipes in The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats)
to ensure that
your pet is eating the healthiest food possible.
2.Minimize vaccines. Most pets do not need annual "shots." A simple
blood test called a titer test can determine which vaccines you pet
needs.
3.Minimize chemicals. I prefer not to use chemical flea prevention
products unless absolutely needed. Monthly heartworm medication is
preferred over the 6 month injectable heartworm preventive.
4.Administer whole food vitamin and mineral supplements,
antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids to maintain a healthy body.
5.Administer choline supplementation to prevent or delay the onset of
Alzheimer's disease (cognitive disorder) in dogs and cats 10 years of
age By following the ideas presented here, you will be able to
confidently
work with your veterinarian to help your pet maintain a healthy immune
system.

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Melissa Z...winner of the Paw Print Polar Fleece
Scarf  for December.  January's drawing is a paw print kitchen towel
and hotpad set.   After entering your name, check out the rest of the
fun page at http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Thanks to Michelle U... for submitting this month's photo of her
adorable pals,  Serena and Cookie.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photos either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
A recent comment from one of our valued customers.  "I shop A LOT ---
This has by far been the best - speedy, not expensive, professional
and NICE. Everyone take notice. Thank you." Aida J.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      December 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
We wish you the happiest of  Holiday Greetings and a heartfelt thanks
for your interest and support throughout the year. May all your
celebrations with family, friends and pets be safe and secure.  For
the ultimate in shopping convenience this season, be sure and visit
us at: www.animaldesigns.com, the gift place for pet and animal
lovers.

2) PET JOURNALS
T'was the night before Christmas... Well, it was actually about 3
o'clock Christmas Eve day. The sign out front said "Closed early for
the holiday" and everyone had already left to finish last minute
errands and get home before the storm. I, too, would be gone after my
final round of the kennels, distributing treats to the eager animals
who were safe, warm, clean and dry but nevertheless homeless and
unwanted. I had a lot to do before Christmas morning and places I had
to be, and for a split second I thought of pretending I didn't hear.
But doggie doorbells erupted in riotous barking and my lone car, in
the otherwise empty parking lot, betrayed my presence and kept me
from sneaking out the back. So I responded to the rather insistent
pounding on the front door. A young woman stood there with a very
pregnant cat wrapped in her red scarf. She was a tender hearted
student on her way home for Christmas who just couldn't leave this
obviously stray cat with no place to go, alone, and about to give
birth -- especially now that it was spitting snow. With a sigh in my
heart but a smile on my face for this humane act, I took the cat in
and let the good Samaritan go on her way, complete with wool muffler.
The cat and I eyed one another. She was a matted Maine coon mix with
big green knowing eyes that gave this very soon to-be-mom my number
in an instant -- that red "S" on my forehead which is highly visible
to animals stands for "sucker" not "superwoman". An irresistible purr
started at the bottom of her eight toed, double pawed white feet,
kneading in time to the rumbles in her throat. "Well, I can't leave
you here to have your babies all alone, so you're coming home with
me," I informed her, as I bundled her into a crate and we headed out
into what was becoming a full fledged nor'easter. She never quit
purring, even when the car stopped dead on the long deserted country
road and refused to start again. "This can't be happening. Not my
trusty old Volvo, not on Christmas Eve, not with a cat who was about
to pop!" I muttered. Well, this was long before the days of cell
phones, and I had two choices -- wait or walk. After 15 minutes went
by with no cars and the blizzard intensifying, I wrapped the cat in a
scarf again, my own this time, pulled up the hood to my parka, took
the crate firmly in gloved hand, and we headed out on foot to the
house lights I could dimly see in the distance. It might have been
the cold air searing my lungs, or the blinding snow obscuring my
vision, or being suddenly stranded on Christmas Eve, but I couldn't
help thinking of another couple seeking refuge this same night nearly
two thousand years before. With both wry humor at this situation and
respect for the first, I named this expectant lady "Mary" too.
Despite the lights, there was no answer at the first house, or the
second. As I kept trudging to the third, that bone thin cat gained
weight with every step I took. Ah! Someone was home. The look on her
face was priceless as she struggled to understand my story as the
storm howled around us. She wasn't quite sure she wanted to let some
stranger with a pregnant cat into her beautifully decorated living
room. I shook the snow from my hood and tipped it back so she could
see that I looked harmless enough, and she exclaimed in
recognition, "Oh, I know you. You're the humane society lady on
television!" With that, I went from potential nutcase to needy
humanitarian and she let me in to use the phone. She dismissed the
melting snow on her clean floor, and warmed and fed us royally as we
waited for our ride and repair. We didn't get home until nearly 10pm -
- the final presents not wrapped or delivered, the last minute
groceries not bought, and the parties unattended. I was exhausted and
beyond frazzled, but I got Mary situated in the big kitty condo and
introduced my own nine cats and three big black German Shepherds to
this latest foster edition. I finished my chores and finally soaked
the long difficult day away in a bubble bath. I dozed off, and woke
after midnight when the water had cooled and the house was totally
dark and silent. "Ut oh, the storm knocked out the power." I dried
off, lit a candle, found the oil lamp and stoked the woodstove. Then
I checked on Mary in the flickering light. She was still purring,
even louder now, accompanied by tiny meows. The three Magi (my dogs),
who came to celebrate these holiday births, watched in quiet
fascination with gently wagging tails. I laughed, helped her clean
her kitties, and called them by name. "Now Dasher, now Dancer, now
Prancer and Vixen, on Comet, on Cupid, on Donner and Blitzen..." I
know I'm mixing the metaphors of Christmas, however that seems to be
what happens at the end of the Twentieth Century. But Mary and her
tiny babies were alive and well that night because people cared, and
went out of their way to help even on a busy holiday and in a raging
storm. A concerned college student hurrying home took the time to
pick up a poor stray cat and take her to the humane society. An
overextended shelter director was generous enough to welcome a
pregnant cat into her own home. A kind, gracious lady trusted enough
to let a stranger and cat in her house for safety and warmth. A
caring and dependable friend came to the rescue even in treacherous
weather. Kindness and caring, compassion and generosity, trust and
love. That is the real meaning of Christmas, and I think both Mary
and Santa would agree.
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
With the winter chill around the corner, our featured item this month
is our practical and popular draft stoppers. Place this attractive as
well as functional draft stopper at your door.  It measures 36" X 7",
is made of cotton outer shell,  stuffed with polyfill and is machine
washable.  Also makes a great decorative accent to your home decor.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=13&p_catid=22&sid=6Op7@...

4)ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"I've heard that milk thistle is good for pets with
liver disease. I have a 2 year old female doberman, and as you know
this breed is prone to liver disease. Should I give her milk thistle
to prevent problems?"
As you've stated, milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is one of several
herbs that can help pets with liver disease. Its silymarin content
has been shown effective in treating liver disease, and most milk
thistle compounds are usually standardized to 70-80% silymarin. Milk
thistle is one of the few herbs that have no real equivalent in the
world of conventional medicine. There simply are no drugs that can be
used to assist in liver healing and repair when disease sets in. The
active ingredients in milk thistle appear to be four substances known
collectively as
silymarin, of which the most potent is named silibinin. Milk thistle
extracts can protect the liver against many poisonous substances.
Silymarin appears to function by displacing toxins trying to bind to
the liver as well as by causing the liver to regenerate more quickly.
It also scavenges free radicals and stabilize liver cellmembranes.
Silymarin protects the liver as an antioxidant (it is more potent
than vitamin E,) by increasing glutathione levels, and by inhibiting
the formation of damaging leukotriene chemicals.  Silymarin also
stimulates the production of new liver cells, replacing the damaged
cells. Due to its liver support, milk thistle is often used anytime
the pet
becomes ill or toxic to support the liver. It can also be used
anytime drugs are given to the pet that could be
toxic to the liver, especially chemotherapy medicines for treating
cancer, heartworm treatment medications, and long-term use of other
medications (such as antibiotics and corticosteroids.) However, there
does not seem to be any advantage to using milk thistle on a regular
basis as a preventive (nor do I know of any studies showing
that any herb can protect a pet from becoming ill.) I recommended not
to using milk thistle as a daily preventive supplement in normal
healthy pets but rather reserve its use for conditions where the
liver is under stress. I combine milk thistle with other supplements
for maximum effectiveness in pets with liver disease and have had
good results with this protocol."
Shawn Messonnier DVM, is the author of The Arthritis Solution for
Dogs,
The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural
Health
Bible for Dogs & Cats.

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Ruth G...winner of our eyeglass case for
November.  December's drawing is our popular polar fleece scarf in a
black and white paw print.  After entering your name, vote for your
choice of this month's fabric and answer the fun question.  Thanks to
Patricia B. for submitting this month's photo of Casper.  "Casper is
a Siberian Husky who is spoiled rotten by her dad.  Dad has to sit
near him while he eats his supper as Casper keeps one eye on dad and
the other on the food. If dad doesn't act as his cheerleader, then
Casper stops eating.
When he wants to be particularly contrary and make my parents worry
because "he is not eating" although he could lose a few pounds, dad
reverts to feeding him with a spoon. Who has trained whom?"
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photos either by email or snail mail.

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
Archie Squares - Thanks to Karen D...for submitting these homemade
dog treats.
*************************************************
2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup powdered dry milk
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. brown sugar or honey
6 tbs. meat or bacon drippings, cold right from refrigerator, not
melted or soft!
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/2 cup Ice water
Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet. Combine flour, dry
milk, garlic powder and sugar. Cut in meat drippings until mixture
resembles corn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so that mixture
forms a ball. Using your fingers, pat out dough onto cookie sheet to
1/2" thick. Cut dough into squares appropriate for your dog size.
Prick each cookie with fork. Bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from tray and
cool on rack. Store in airtight container.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

Happy Holidays,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      November 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Tired of that drab bathroom?  Add a bit of pizazz with our new tank
and lid cover set.  It includes a washable padded toilet seat cover
and tank top with an adjustable drawstring to fit most styles.
Matching shower curtains and hand towel sets are available in several
animal patterns.  If you need a particular size, just email us your
dimensions.  See the variety of choices at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

2) PET JOURNALS
Boy, does it smell good around here! Hi! My name is Teddy and it is
Thanksgiving time in our house. The humans are happy and smiling, and
so am I! I am a rescued dog. Actually, I thought I was just a
Keeshond. Us long-haired dogs hardly ever get 'dopted, cause folks
think we shed too much. I got taken to the Pound Place when my old
owner lost his home. I try not to think about those old times -- they
were not the "good ole days" that humans talk about. I had to be in a
cage at the Pound Place with all these other rude, noisy dogs. They
barked or snarled when the humans came. As it was, I was not a little
puppy like some of the others -- I was all grown up so I didn't think
anyone would look at me at all. We were all so scared. I didn't think
I'd ever be 'dopted. A lady came and looked at me and my card and
called me by my name. I felt shy but I came up to her and she told me
how pretty I was. I came and licked her hand. Another man was
checking out the other dogs and she left to talk to him. Oh, well, I
thought, and I went back and sat down. I was SO sad! The lady came
back with the man and their two human pups and my nice volunteer
lady, Carol. They took me out and we went to a green field. I ran and
jumped and frolicked with the human pups. I laid on my back with my
legs in the air to show the humans they could scratch my tummy
whenever they wanted. Miss Carol said, "Here's your dog!" Everyone
smiled -- even me! The lady had wet eyes. She does that a lot I found
out. We got in a moving cage, called a car, and we stopped and got
food and bowls and a bed and toys and a blanket and a walking string
and a collar and a yard chain and a brush and all kinds of cool stuff
and it was all for me! No one else's! I also had to go to the vet
place and I was afraid I would have to go back to the Pound
Place, 'cause they searched and poked and looked in every opening I
had. Would I have whatever they were looking for? Anyway, it was OK.
I got some shots and a bath and a shiny tag. There were more smiles
and away we went to my new home. I was nervous at first, 'cause the
lady did not ever have a dog before and she did not like it when I
did doggy things. I growled at her oldest pup 'cause he was afraid of
me (not anymore 'cause I lick his toes and he giggles). I marked the
dining room to let everyone know it was one of my favorite places,
but she didn't understand that it was so everyone could smell me as
well as all that great food. I heard the word "jealous" a lot when
that black Kat sat on lady's lap. Blackie (not her real name - she'd
get mad at me if I said it was Oreo) swatted at me once, so I steer
clear of her. However, I knew lady loved me when she stuck up for me
with that ole black cat and didn't allow her to hurt me. Speaking of
Kats, they are very spoiled. They get to do their business in a box
in the house and the man has to scoop it all out every day. They
don't have to go out in the rain and snow and cold. They try to sneak
and eat my food, when they have their own perfectly great food -- I
know 'cause I've eaten, er, uh, smelled it. Anyway, this is
Thanksgiving and I am thankful for many things -- my romps in the
yard with the human pups, where there is grass or snow to nibble on,
toys and daily playtime with my family, my own place and bed to
protect me from thunderstorms, my own Halloween costume (except they
make me wear it and take pictures -- how embarrassing!) I have my own
Christmas stocking and I've watched Santa fill it, too! I try to show
how grateful I am by doing stuff like cleaning the meat pans (lady
just smiles and pats me) and helping my people get their exercise and
meet new people. My owners talk of church and soup kitchens and go to
those places. I wish for all canines around the world a warm house,
tasty food, a cozy bed, a loving pat, a snuggle, good smells, and
happy playtime. Now about those meat pans...
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
New colorful apron with matching mitt makes a great gift as well as
being  practical in your kitchen for all your upcoming Holiday
cooking.   Made of washable cotton and generously sized.  If you are
looking for a different animal print, just contact me as custom
orders are our specialty.   http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4)ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"I have a 15 year old cat. During her recent
veterinary visit, her doctor suggested she
have her teeth cleaned. I really don't want to put her through that
and am scared that at her age she would
die under anesthesia. I just want to keep her comfortable for
whatever time she has left. Do I really need to
have her teeth cleaned at her age?"
A:"Yours is a question I deal with regularly. Let me share a few
thoughts with you that I think will put your
mind at ease. While you should be congratulated for doing such a
great job to have your cat reach the ripe
old age of 15, she still may have several good years left. I treat
many cats that are 17-18 years of age, and
a few even make it to 20 or slightly beyond! So whatever you decide,
hopefully you will still have several
more happy years with her. Dental disease is the most common
infectious disease in dogs and cats, and it
is easily treated. Yes, a proper dental cleaning does require
anesthesia. If your doctor takes a holistic
approach to your cat, and takes special care with her, I don't think
she would have any problems. In my
practice I do a good exam and laboratory testing (blood, urine, etc.)
to see if the pet has underlying
problems that could increase the risk of anesthesia. Many of my
patients have underlying problems such as
heart or kidney disease. We still clean the teeth under anesthesia,
we just alter our normal procedure for
these special-needs pets. You mention you want to make your cat
comfortable for whatever time she has
left with you. Believe me, living with the pain of a periodontal
infection for several more years is not going to
be comfortable with her. I think all pets regardless of age benefit
from a dental cleaning. I've had a number
of people tell me how youthful their pets acted following a dental
cleaning. That's really not a surprise,
when you consider that a pet with a chronic, painfully infected mouth
is not going to feel good. Here's what I
suggest:if your doctor can use extra care with your cat, altering
anesthesia as needed for any special
problems that may show up in a preoperative blood profile, I would
expect your cat to do well. Following the
cleaning, you might suggest short term use of antioxidants or
coenzyme Q-10 to decrease inflammation of
the gums. Also, get her on a good natural diet, and minimize the use
of vaccines. Good luck with her, and
I hope she is around to give you pleasure for several more years!"
Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural
Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Please address
questions to him at naturalvet@...

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Judy T...winner of our mini-bag for October.
November's drawing is an eyeglass case featuring our logo.  After
entering your name, vote for your choice of this month's fabric and
answer the fun question.  Thanks to Maureen M. for submitting the
photo of her best friend SOBEAR.  He is a 3-year old Bichon Frise. We
would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of their
photos either by email or snail mail.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
Martha T. writes:  "Is there a way to see a larger fabric sample for
your products other than what is on the web page."   Yes, a few of
the products have a link where you can view larger fabric samples and
I am working on getting the others added.  However, if you have a
particular animal print that you want to see, please email me with
your request.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      October 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
1) WHAT'S NEW
New selection of Polar Fleece Scarves!  With the fall season here and
winter not far away, stop in and view the wide variety of animal
prints.  Quantities are limited, so shop early. Visit us at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

2) PET JOURNALS
I reach up and take a leash from the hook on the wall. As I turn to
face the row of eager faces watching me from the kennel runs, my eyes
search out the black and white face of Joe. He's in the first kennel,
feet dancing in excitement, hoping it's his turn to come out for a
walk. "Come on, Old Man, you're needed up front." I open the gate to
his area and snap the leash on his collar. We are in a hurry, and
every second counts. I walk quickly from the kennel and up the
hallway, Joe trotting along beside me. The only sound he makes is the
clicking of his nails on the tiled floor. Joe is a black and white
English Pointer. He has lived most of his life inside the veterinary
clinic. He's been here longer than most of the staff, and indeed, he
is recognized as part of our team. He plays a lifesaving role for
many patients. As we enter the treatment room, two of the staff
members seize Joe and lift him onto the treatment table. Things start
to move quickly, but the big pointer isn't easily flustered. He
stands still, head and tail lifted high, much as if he were out in a
field pointing at a covey of quail. I unbuckle his collar and slip it
off his neck. He doesn't move as the needle is inserted and his blood
is drawn. In the next room, a patient waits for a transfusion. Joe is
a universal blood donor. His blood is safe for most blood
transfusions to other dogs. It doesn't matter to him whether it's a
puppy anemic from parasites, a dog hit by a car, or one recovering
from a difficult surgery. Joe is ready at a moment's notice to step
in and do his part without a whimper or complaint. Once his part in
the drama is finished, the staff members lift Joe down from the
table. He stands while I fasten his collar back on. He looks up at me
with his soft chocolate eyes, and I can't resist. "Okay, Joe. You
deserve it." This is Joe's favorite part. We take turns feeding him
dog biscuits from a wicker basket kept there for just this purpose.
One by one, Joe gently takes them from our hands, but he doesn't chew
them. He pockets them like a chipmunk until his mouth can't hold any
more. "...six, seven, eight, nine. Wow, I think this is a record,
Joe! You can't possibly hold another doggy bone in there!" We all
laugh at the expression on his face. With his tail wagging and his
mouth full of biscuits, it looks like he's grinning, too. Back down
the hallway we walk together. Joe knows the routine well. He goes
into his kennel and turns around a couple of times before laying down
on his bed. There, he drops his mouthful of biscuits and begins to
munch on one. What he doesn't eat right now, I know he will cover
with the corner of his bedding and hide until later. In the kennel
next to him are two liver and white pointers, Missy and Sally. With
their eyes bright and heads cocked, they stand listening to Joe chew
his treats. They are young dogs and are being trained to take Joe's
place. I give each of them a biscuit, too. The kennel room is filled
with the sounds of crunching. Joe has been donating blood for eleven
years. Each time he donates, it is noted on his medical record. Page
after page is full of dates, the amount donated and the patient who
received it. He is kept current on his vaccinations and heartworm
preventive. Although he is not used for hunting birds, a trusted
family friend comes and takes Joe out for a run with Joe's sister
once a week. Our friend says there's not many things prettier than
watching a good bird dog work quail, although Joe much prefers to
chase butterflies and romp around the green fields. At the end of the
day, as I put away the fresh surgery towels, the veterinarian walks
into the kennel area and over to Joe's run. He opens the door and
steps inside, then kneels down and takes the big pointer's head in
his hands. "Well, Old Man, it looks like we pulled another one
through," he tells Joe. The dog's tail wags slowly back and forth. I
know it's a bittersweet moment. Due to his age, Joe's blood donations
are becoming fewer and farther between. Soon, it will only be our
two "girls" who are called upon to help in a crisis. Don't worry
about Joe, though. He'll be squirreling away those dog biscuits and
chasing butterflies until the end of his days. The Old Man has earned
his retirement.
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep your feet warm this winter with our soft and cozy slippers.
Made of cotton/flannel outside with polar fleece inner lining, they
are generously padded and have a non-skid sole.  They conform
naturally to your feet and best of all are washable.  To custom make
a pair just for you, select your favorite print at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=28&p_catid=21&sid=6Op7@...


4) ASK THE VET
Title: Treating (and Maybe Preventing) Alzheimer's in Dogs and Cats
Alzheimer's disease is a devastating progressive neurological
disorder of older men and women. A comparative disease occurs in dogs
and cats and is called canine and feline cognitive disorder (doggie
and kitty Alzheimer's)
respectively. As in people, it is most commonly seen in older pets.
It is estimated to affect 10 million to 15 million pets in the U.S.
alone. Microscopically, beta amyloid plaques within the brain and its
blood vessels are seen (as in people with Alzheimer's.) Recently, the
drug AniprylR has been approved for treating cognitive disorder in
dogs. While effective in some patients, the drug can have rare side
effects. If effective, AniprylR must be used for the life of thedog.
Since the medication is expensive, a less expensive option might be
preferred. One safer, less expensive alternative that I have been
using in my practice for many years is the B vitamin supplement
CholodinR. CholodinR contains the B vitamin choline,
phosphatidylcholine, methionine and inositol. Recently, in an attempt
to quantify response to CholodinR, the manufacturer asked me to
perform a study using the supplement in dogs and cats. The results of
these two studies are presented here. Twenty-one dogs of various
breeds were enrolled in the study. The age of the participants ranged
from 10 to 16 years of age. Nine neutered males and 12 spayed females
were enrolled in the study.
A blood profile including a T4 test was performed prior to the start
of the study. Each pet was supplied with a two-month supply of
CholodinR to be administered according to label instructions. At the
end of a 30-day
period of treatment, the dosage was doubled if improvement was not
seen. The results of the study indicated the following:  1 dog showed
no response,  5 dogs showed minimal response, 4 dogs showed moderate
response,
5 dogs showed significant response, 3 dogs was lost to follow-up, 1
dog was euthanized for acute liver failure not related to cognitive
disorder or the supplement.
The study in cats enrolled 21 cats 10 years of age and older. The
results of the study indicated the following:
  5 cats showed no response, 4 cats showed minimal response, 5 cats
showed moderate response, 4 cats showed significant response, 1 cat
owner did not respond to our follow-up call, 2 cats died of unrelated
causes during the study. These studies showed that supplementation
with the B vitamin choline supplement CholodinR is safe and effective
for reversing signs of Alzheimer's disease in dogs and cats. My own
clinical experience indicates
that if given to older pets before clinical signs appear, many pets
taking choline supplementation will not develop signs of Alzheimer's
disease (cognitive disorder.) CholodinR is safe, inexpensive, and has
no significant side effects. As pet owners seek more natural therapy
for common diseases, the use of choline supplements such as CholodinR
can be recommended.
Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The
NaturalHealth
Bible for Dogs &Cats. Please address email questions to him at
naturalvet@....

5) DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Melissa C.....winner of our eyeglass case for
September.  October's drawing is our popular mini-bag featuring our
logo.  After entering your name, vote for your choice of this month's
fabric and answer the fun question.  Thanks to Jeni W. for submitting
the photo of her adorable 5 yr. old Pomeranian named Little Dog. We
would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of their
photos either by email or snail mail.   Quick jump to
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm

6) COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
  "I am purchasing placemats as a wedding gift.  Can you enclose a
card with the gift?"
Yes, we will gladly design a personalized card for any special
occasion and include it with the shipment.  Just let us know what
message to write in the card.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      September 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
Attention!!  If you have horses or have friends who love horses, you
will want to see this month's new addition.   "Horse Gifts" is our
new page which offers one stop shopping  for those speciality items
featuring a varied selection of horse print fabrics. Check out the
many choices at www.animaldesigns.com/horsegifts.htm   In the
upcoming months, look for our themed pages with "Cat Gifts" and "Dog
Gifts".

2) PET JOURNALS
  It was late in the evening. I had just settled down in my rocking
chair and put my feet up on the footstool. The cup of hot tea was
nice and warm in my hands. In just a few minutes I would go upstairs
to bed like the rest of my family, but just for the moment I was
going to sit and savor the peace. The window was open near my rocking
chair. I could hear crickets chirping and little tree frogs singing
down by the creek. A whippoorwill called from down the hollow, and
another one answered. The air was still warm from the summer's day
heat. We sure could use some rain. In the distance I could hear dry
leaves crunching like an animal was rustling through them. Probably
that armadillo again, I thought. There was a burrow out behind one of
the barns, and I enjoyed watching her while she snuffled around in
the early mornings. Something was different about this noise,
however. It was getting closer to the house, and was beginning to
sound like something much bigger than a little armadillo browsing for
bugs to eat. Closer and closer it came. I began to wonder if the
rumors I had heard were true. Was there really a bear in the
neighborhood? I began to feel goosebumps as I sat frozen in suspense.
I now could hear footsteps, heavy and slow, moving right outside my
window. Crunch, crunch went the dead leaves. Then I saw something
glide by just above the window sill. It was curly, and looked like a
tail of some sort. Cue the shark attack music. Da-dum...da-dum...da-
dum, da-dum, da-dum! "Lemon, is that you?" I whispered. A startled
sort of "Grunt?" was the reply. My heart was still pounding, but I
felt an immense relief. It was only my daughter's blue ribbon
Yorkshire sow. I slipped on a pair of shoes and stepped out the front
door. "Lemon, what are you doing out of your pen?" I asked. Lemon,
who had been nosing through my flower bed, turned around with all the
ponderous grace of the QE2 doing an about-face. She grunted again in
pleasure. She was happy to see me, as always. The white sow walked
beside me through the dark like an obedient puppy. She was a very
affectionate animal for a pet that weighed close to six hundred
pounds. Her abdomen was swelled with all the piglets she carried. I
patted her rounded side as we walked. Lemon went back into her pen
with no trouble. I scratched her favorite spot behind one ear before
I left and walked back to the house. I had just settled down in my
chair again and taken a sip of tea, when I heard leaves crunching.
Oh, no, not again! Suddenly, two huge ears and a pink snout appeared
above window sill. I sighed, "Yes, Lemon, I'm coming." This time I
went upstairs and called for reinforcements. Obviously, Lemon was
restless tonight and needed to be put up safely. We couldn't take the
chance of anything happening to her or her babies. With a sleepy
husband in tow, I carefully picked a path through the darkness. This
time, however, Lemon led the way. She marched forward like a pig on a
mission, passing by her pen and leading us to the barn. She waited
patiently while we opened the door, then walked into an open stall.
This was the place she had delivered her last litter of pigs, and it
now stood clean and ready for Lemon's due date next week. The sow
took a long drink of water, then eased herself down and rolled over
onto her side. She was now the picture of contentment. My husband
studied the breeding records. "Well, she's not due for a few more
days, but if this is where she wants to be tonight, we'll let her
stay in here." Lemon's response was a huge sigh. The next morning, we
were greeted by the sight of eight, brand-new baby pigs snuggled next
to Lemon, each one a miniature replica of their now much slimmer
mother. "Oh, look at all the Lemon Drops!" my daughter exclaimed as
she leaned down to pat one little white pig. It blinked tiny blue
eyes as it nuzzled her fingers. Outside I heard a soft pattering of
rain begin, and a rumble of thunder. Our dry spell was over. The much
needed rain had arrived. Lemon Drops and raindrops, what a wonderful
way to start the day!
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
Set the trend with our designer tapestry tote bags in a variety of
beautiful prints. These featured totes are made of quality imported
tapestry fabric, are very durable and stylish.  They are fully lined,
tapestry fabric on both sides with a  velcro closure and two cloth
handles.  Measures 16"x16"  Great for carrying all your essentials
and will last a lifetime.  Check out this featured item at
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4)ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"I need to spray the area under a large oak where I
put my plants in the summer. It is full of tiny mites of some sort.
Last year I used malathion with good results. This year we are
hosting a family of feral (formerly feral) cats that play in this
area during the day. They come inside at dusk. I have been told that
malathion is no longer poisonous after it dires. Is this true? Should
I spray after they come in and not let them out until the area is dry
the next morning? Would it be better if I set the sprinkler for an
hour before letting them out, in hopes that it will wash the residue
away? Can you suggest a safer insecticide?"
A:"Malathion is still a poisonous insecticide, and quite a potent one
at
that. Unless absolutely necessary, I would avoid this at all cost. In
general, insecticides are most toxic immediately after application.
The toxicity diminishes after drying. I would suggest something
safer. Here are some options that can help with plant mites. Spraying
them directly with insecticidal oil (available at nurseries) will
coat the mites and kill them. You can also apply natural diatomaceous
earth (DE) or citrus oil as well. Any of these choices would
not hurt the cats. "
Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural
Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Please address questions to him at Paws
& Claws Animal Hospital,
2145 W. Park Blvd., Plano, Tx, 75075, call him at 972-867-8800, or
email him at naturalvet@....


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Jeni W...winner of our bandana  for August.
September's drawing is an eyeglass case featuring our logo.  After
entering your name, vote for your choice of this month's fabric and
answer the fun question.  Thanks to Barb T.....for submitting the
photo of her beautiful horse Molly. We would like to honor your Pet
next month, so send us a copy of their photos either by email or
snail mail.  http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
Satisfied Customer, a recent comment  submitted by Elsie C.  "I am
still using the beautiful Owl tote bag which you made for me two
years ago.  I take it everywhere, it is great for carrying all my
stuff and I have received many compliments on the tote.  Again, thank
you so much."

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      August 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments-Questions-Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
You can now listen to the Caring for Creatures talk radio show
directly from our web site.  You will need to download real player
audio which you can do from the displayed link at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm
Caring For Creatures is a non-profit charitable foundation dedicated
to caring for abandoned, abused, neglected and otherwise homeless
dogs and cats. To learn more about them, visit their web site at
www.caringforcreatures.com

2) PET JOURNALS
"It can't be done." Well, that's all you have to say to my friend
Heidi, and she will find a way to do it -- especially when it
concerns animals. Four kittens had been living in the patio area,
next to the cafeteria, of our hospital. The mother cat was long gone.
The kittens were sustained by handouts from various staff members,
but they remained cautious and untouchable. The hospital
administration wanted them removed, so they contacted the local
Animal Control office who set up traps. Animal Control said they
would check the kittens out for disease, "fix" them and then put them
up for adoption. When three of the four kittens had been captured,
Heidi went to Animal Control to see how they were doing. She was told
that they had been "put down" because feral kittens of that age, 4-5
months, were not adoptable since they could not be domesticated. She
left the office in a rage, determined not to let the same fate take
the life of the last little orange kitty. Informing all those
concerned about the welfare of the kitten, she went on a crusade to
capture this cat herself. She found some people who agreed to adopt
him. She was contacted by one "night nurse" who said she had gained
the trust of this cat and was able to actually hold it on her lap and
hand feed it. After numerous night missions, Heidi did catch the cat.
She took him to her vet, who promptly proclaimed him healthy. As for
a home, the people who had previously expressed a desire for him,
backed out. Heidi already had two cats and one dog. Her parent's home
was the "holding" area temporarily -- they had declared they were
finished being pet owners. Or so they thought! Corky, the name her
folks had given him, had won them over. Although still a little shy
around strangers, Corky has become a wonderful "house cat" and sleeps
in bed with Heidi's folks every night. And what was said "couldn't be
done" was done with love and patience.
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
For all your outdoor activities our unique billfold is just what you
need.  Perfect for your money and credit cards when you want
something small but practical.  Made of SOFTSIDED cotton in your
favorite animal print.  Features two (2) card pockets, (one for
coins), compartment  for paper money, nylon lining, velcro closure
and it's washable.   Measures 3" X 5" in size when folded.    Want a
different animal print, be sure and contact us with your request.  To
see our selection: http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4)ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"Currently we are using Frontline to treat our dogs
(labs) for ticks & fleas. I recently became pregnant and I am now
reluctant to use it due to the potential toxic effects to myself, my
baby, and my pets. Also, my dog develops sores on her face & body
when treated. The dogs run in a field on the weekends, so tick
treatment is a concern. Is there something I can use that is less
toxic and safer for them?"
A:"The Frontline is causing a reaction in your dogs so I would stop
using it. Because natural therapies work
well and cause fewer reactions, I would recommend you try these. Some
of the therapies that I have found
helpful include natural pyrethrum powders and citrus oil shampoos,
dips, and collars helpful.  Finally, inspect your dogs before
bringing them back in the house. Carefully remove and dispose any
ticks you find. Simply use tweezers and grasp the tick near the dog's
skin, gently but firmly pulling them away from the body. Place the
tick in a jar of alcohol to kill it, and then dispose of the dead
ticks (flushing them down the toilet.) Give your dogs a good bath and
dip with the citrus oil product before bringing them back inside.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the Natural Vet series from
Prima,
including The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution for
Dogs,
and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.
You can contact him at  naturalvet@...

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Judi G....winner of our versatile mini-bag for
July.  August's drawing is a bandana featuring our logo.  After
entering your name, vote for your choice of this month's fabric and
answer the fun question.  Thanks to Dorothy R... for submitting the
photo of her adorable dogs, Gunnar Joe and Elliott.  We would like to
honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of their photos either
by email or snail mail.  http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm

6)  COMMENTS-QUESTIONS-SUGGESTIONS
Our thanks to Janet K. for this tasty recipe for carrot crispies
horse treats. We're sure your equine friends will go for these
goodies.   The ingredients are:
2 carrots, shredded;
1 apple chopped into pieces;
1/3 cup molasses; 1/2 to 3/4 cup bran;
salty crackers
Combine carrots, apple, molasses and bran.  Mix thoroughly.  Scoop a
small ball on crackers.  Store leftovers in refrigerator.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      July 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff
6.  Comments, Questions, Suggestions

1) WHAT'S NEW
We are adding a new column to the newsletter called Comments,
Questions and Suggestions. We started this month with a question and
answer about color coordinating a bathroom with your favorite animal
prints (see below).  Here is your chance to get your questions
answered. so send them to us.  Also, we have two new horses that have
joined "Our Family", Ray and Coby, so be sure and check out their
photos at http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/Our_Family.html

2) PET JOURNALS
  MORE THAN A PET "A man needs someone to believe in him. A horse has
this need too. Whether he is bred to race or show or pull a plow, he
needs someone who believes in his power to run, jump or pull. One day
he pushes against the wind and opens his nostrils to suck it in.
Suddenly he wants to run and he does and he wins. No longer a diamond
in the rough, he has taken on the sparkle of a true champion."  I
found this inscription on the back of a plate painted by artist Fred
Stone. It describes my horse perfectly. My husband heard about an
Arabian horse that had been starved and abused. Knowing that I loved
Arabians, he went about acquiring the horse, Surroban, for me. At the
time, I couldn't believe that the poor, ugly, grey bag of bones my
husband brought home was even a horse let alone a purebred Arabian. I
was sickened that any human would allow an animal to get into such
horrible condition. It didn't take long, however, for me to see that
beneath the dirt and scars there was an animal with a lot of spirit.
Surroban was so afraid of humans that it took several weeks for me to
get my hands on him. I decided that the quickest way to his heart
would be through his stomach, so when I put his food out I would sit
several yards away while he ate. Each day the pan and I got a little
closer and finally I was able to hold the pan in my lap and ever so
lightly touch his face. As months went by and I quietly worked with
my Arabian, he showed me that he was willing to trust me and wanted
to please. I did find that there were some ghosts to deal with, but
he and I learned to work around them. After 2 years of patience
Surroban entered his first horse show. He wasn't perfect and I don't
think we even got a ribbon, but he went in and did what was asked of
him. Afterward, many people asked where I had acquired the pretty
Arabian. I began to look at him as more that just a pet. Surroban
continued to grow physically, as well as emotionally, and he stood
almost 16 hands and his tail dragged on the ground. Each time
Surroban showed he got better -- never perfect but always the crowd
favorite. He was big and white and flew around the ring. It was
obvious that Surroban loved to show. Surroban's show career peaked
when he was crowned the American Royal Native Costume Champion. The
whole day was like a dream! When we entered the ring the crowd
gasped. Although we were competing against 15 other beautiful horses
in costumes, it seemed as if there weren't any other horses in the
ring. The crowd cheered and clapped excitedly every time we went by.
The class came to an end and all the entries lined up for the
individual judging. When the judge came to us it was obvious that
Surroban had the vote of the crowd. It was time to announce the
winners. I was nervous but Surroban was his strong, steady self.
First place was called -- it was Surroban! As we made our way to the
winners circle for the picture and presentation, I felt such pride
for an animal that had allowed himself to trust again. Needless to
say I cried and laughed all at the same time. My Surroban had become
more than just my pet -- he was my companion and partner. He had
finally proven to everyone else what I always knew -- he was a
CHAMPION!
www.petwarmers.com

3) FEATURED ITEM
Give your bathroom a new look with our custom made cotton fabric
shower curtain , standard size (72" X 72") with sturdy metal
grommets. Easy care and washable.  If you want a different pattern or
need a different size, please email us with your request.  To view
the fabric samples, visit  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

ASK THE VET
  Here is an update on prostate tumors in dogs. Fortunately, these
tumor are quite rare. Prostatic disease in general is rare in dogs
since most are neutered a puppies. However, while neutering is
helpful for reducing prostatic enlargement and infections, it does
not prevent tumors of this gland. Common clinical signs include
straining to have a bowel movement, constipation, and sometimes blood
in the feces or urine. The average age of dogs with prostatic tumors
is 10 years. There are several treatment options. Surgery can be
attempted but is difficult because of the anatomy of the canine
prostate gland.  Radiation therapy can temporarily relieve signs but
is usually not curative due to the high rate of spread to the
regional lymph nodes and vertebrae. While chemotherapy has not been
shown to reduce tumor size recent studies suggests that mitoxantrone
combined with piroxicam has
helped in a limited number of dogs.  One protocol suggested by Dr.
Kevin Hahn at Gulf Coast Veterinary
Specialists in Houston utilizes a combination of radiation (once
every 2 weeks for 3 times) with
mitoxantrone (once every 2 weeks for 5 times) combined with daily
piroxicam. My protocol also utilizes a
special diet for cancer patients (high in protein and omega-3 fish
oil, low in carbs,) and various immune-boosting
supplements including herbs such as astragalus, antioxidants, and
arabinogalactans. I also stop vaccinating any pet with cancer, as
this can cause pets to come out of remission and really is not needed
in pets with cancer. By combining a sensible diet and supplement
regimen, I believe pets with cancer tend to feel better, have fewer
side effects, and often live longer. As always treating cancer is a
team effort. Work with your referring doctor, cancer specialist, and
holistic veterinarian to develop the right protocol for your pet."

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the Natural Vet series from
Prima,
including The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution for
Dogs,
and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.
You can contact him at  naturalvet@....

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Faye H....winner of the visor for June.  July's
drawing is our versatile mini-bag with our logo.  After entering your
name , vote for your choice of this month's fabric and answer the fun
question.  Thanks to Patricia B. for submitting the photo of her
adorable cats.  We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send
us a copy of their photos either by email or snail mail.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/trivia.htm

6)  COMMENTS,QUESTIONS,SUGGESTIONS
"Can you provide accessories for my bathroom to match the shower
curtain which I ordered, such as, toothbrush holder, soap dish and
cup?."  Yes, our artist can paint an animal image from the fabric on
the accessories to give your bathroom that custom look.   We also use
the fabric to accent your bath and hand towels, and a matching toilet
cover set will give it the finishing touch.  We are here to assist
you, so either call or email us with your ideas.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      June 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff

HAPPY FATHER"S DAY

1) WHAT'S NEW
Exclusive offer for our newsletter subscribers.  Free softsided
eyeglass case holder ($9.95 value) with your  purchase of $25.00 or
more.  Your choice of  patterns, either cats, dogs, horses, or
birds .  Take advantage of this limited offer during the month of
June. Visit our online store now:  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

2) PET JOURNALS
  Last year, we had a beautiful rooster and a few hens that would
visit us once in a while, foraging for a good meal near the back end
of our acre lot. We sat at the window, watching them hunt and peck.
They stayed about 20 minutes and then left, heading into the forest
on the other side of our driveway. Over the year, they stopped coming
and we figured they had either been caught and penned in or moved on
to brighter pastures. We missed their occasional visits and talked
about getting some chickens of our own. However, with all of us
having difficulty getting around, we decided it would be too much
work and the chickens wouldn't get the care they needed. A few months
ago, we started hearing a rooster crow in the forest and wondered if
he was part of our troop. One day, he showed up alone in our driveway
and wandered around for a bit, poking at some fruit and vegetable
peelings we had thrown out for the birds. We decided he was the same
rooster because of his markings and the sound of his crow. He has a
dark golden brown head with the usual red comb and wattle. His neck
and upper shoulders are a golden orange-brown leading to a medium
golden brown back and body. His almost black tail stands proud with a
nice arch at the top. Amid these dark feathers are five long pure
white feathers that seem to shimmer in the sun. Mother lived on or
around farms as a child and never lost that "farmer's heart." Over
the years, she kept chickens at different times and missed being able
to have them anymore. We decided to get some cracked corn to throw
out in the driveway, maybe he would come back and bring his ladies
with him. Then mom would have "her" chickens again. We got a nice big
bag of cracked corn and started throwing out 1-2 cups every morning
before daybreak. At first, we wondered if he would come but we
needn't have worried. Although many birds showed up first to nibble
at the corn, soon he came out of the forest. He walked slowly toward
the corn, looking all around with each step. Once he started eating,
he stuck around for about 10 minutes. He was still alone but we
thought he might bring the ladies after he felt safer. When he
finished, he gave a little crow and walked back into the forest. We
continue to put out corn each and every morning and "our" rooster
comes to feed. He now gives a little crow before he arrives, letting
us know he's coming. Then he struts, or sometimes runs, over to the
corn. The wrens and finches stick around but the crows fly away until
he has finished and left before they return. Our new little ground
squirrel generally moves to the edges but the rooster doesn't seem to
mind him being there. There is a domesticated bunny that has adopted
us also, although he won't let us touch him. He sometimes joins the
group to eat some of the corn but most of the time, he just frolics
in the area, sometimes getting the squirrel to join him. One day,
even the rooster decided to play, hopping over the bunny as they
faced each other. Our rooster has never brought any ladies around so
we figure he's a loner now. He sticks around, pecking and eating, for
about 15 minutes, then flaps his wings, gives a couple of crows and
leaves. As he struts away, he stops every few steps to crow us
another little "Thank you." And of course, we always say, "You're
welcome." You see, the pleasure really is ours.     www.petwarmers.com
We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Get cooking with our newly designed hotpads for your microwave
meals.    Never burn your fingers again when you use these hotpads.
Made of cotton in your favorite animal print, they measure 4"X 8"
have finger pockets and are washable.  Makes a great all occasion
gift and if you like the idea but want a different pattern, just
email me with your request.

4) ASK THE VET
  GLUTAMINE SUPPLEMENTATION FOR DOGS & CATS
One of the more commonly recommended supplements for pets is the amino
acid glutamine. Glutamine, or L-glutamine, is an amino acid derived
from another amino acid, glutamic acid. It serves as a precursor to D-
glucosamine, an amino sugar well known for its ability to relieve
pain and inflammation and regenerate connective tissue in people and
pets with osteoarthritis. There is no daily requirement for glutamine
as the body can make its own glutamine. High-protein foods such as
meat, fish, beans, and dairy products are
excellent sources of glutamine. Severe stresses may result in a
temporary glutamine deficiency. Glutamine plays a role in the health
of the immune system, digestive tract, and muscle cells, as well as
other bodily functions. It appears to serve as a fuel for the cells
that linethe intestines (it serves as a primary energy source for the
mucosal
cells which line the intestinal tract.) Because stress on the
intestinal cells (such as chronic inflammatory
bowel disease) can increase the need for glutamine as the body
replaces the cells lining the intestinal tract, glutamine is often
recommended for pets with chronic bowel disorders including
inflammatory bowel disease. Heavy exercise, infection, surgery, and
trauma can deplete the body's glutamine reserves, particularly in
muscle cells. It has also been suggested as a treatment for food
allergies, based onthe "leaky gut syndrome." This theory holds that
in some pets whole proteins leak through the wall of the digestive
tract and enter the blood, causing allergic reactions. Preliminary
evidence suggests that glutamine supplements might reduce leakage
through the
intestinal walls. However, there is little real evidence that it
works as a treatment for true food allergies,
although it is highly recommended for pets with various bowel
disorders.
In people, there is evidence that glutamine supplements might have
significant nutritional benefits for those who are seriously ill. In
one study, 84 critically ill hospital patients were divided into two
groups. All the patients were being fed through a feeding tube. One
group received a normal feeding-tube diet, whereas the other group
received this diet plus supplemental glutamine. After 6 months, 14 of
the 42 patients receiving glutamine had
died, compared with 24 of the control group. The glutamine group also
left both the intensive care ward and the hospital significantly
sooner than the patients who did not receive glutamine. Adding
glutamine to the feeding formulas of hospitalized pets might be
warranted. In people and pets, glutamine is also recommended to
reduce the loss of muscle mass (as may occur during injury, stress,
or high-endurance activities as might be
encountered by dogs competing in field trials.)  Glutamine is also a
precursor to the enzyme glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate
amidotransferase, which plays a role in the development of insulin
resistance that may eventually manifest itself as diabetes if there
is an imbalance or deficiencies in glutamine levels. Supplementing
diabetic pets with glutamine may be helpful, although more research
is needed in this area. Glutamine may reduce the gastrointestinal
toxicity of some chemotherapy drugs and is often recommended for pets
undergoing cancer chemotherapy.  Glutamine can prevent inflammation
of the intestinal tract caused by radiation therapy of
this area. Glutamine should be considered as a supplement for dogs
undergoing half-body irridation for the treatment of lymphosarcoma.
Glutamine, being one of the body's amino acids, is thought to be a
safe
supplement when taken at recommended dosages. Because many anti-
epilepsy drugs work by blocking
glutamate stimulation in the brain, high dosages of glutamine may
overwhelm these drugs and pose a risk to pets with epilepsy. If your
pet is taking antiseizure medications, glutamine should only be used
under veterinary supervision. Maximum safe dosages for young
children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or
kidney disease have not been determined; similar precautions are
probably warranted in pets. Recommended dosages in pets are 250-3000
mg daily. The most common use of glutamine in dogs and cats is for
bowel disorders. Acute gastroenteritis responds well to a combination
of glutamine, intestinal adsorbents, and probiotics. This same
regimen plus plant enzymes can also be very effective in reducing or
even eliminating the
need for corticosteroids for pets with inflammatory bowel disease.
  By Shawn Messonnier DVM
author, The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.
naturalvet@...


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Debbie G.....winner of the billfold for May.
June's drawing is our popular visor for your outdoor activities.
After entering your name , vote for your choice of this month's
fabric and answer the fun question.
The adorable minature horses featured on our web site were submitted
by Cindy F... of Finch Farms...  Thanks to her for sending their
precious photos.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
their photos either by email or snail mail.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.   http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      May 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff

1) WHAT'S NEW
A Happy Mother's Day to All!!    Tired of burning your fingers when
using the microwave oven, then check out our new microwave hotpads.
They are designed to handle those hot dishes with ease.  These all
cotton washable hotpads feature finger pockets at each end and
measure 4" X 8".  To see the many fabric samples to choose from click
here:    http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?p_prodid=8&p_catid=5&sid=6Op7@V0Vw9zn3CV-
17102548187.9c


2) PET JOURNALS
  A Tail to Share: I am a guardian of 2 dogs; they are brother and
sister. Sleepy is a male light brown mixed wire-haired
terrier/dachshund and Happy is a female dark brown mixed wire-haired
terrier/shitzu. They are still living happily with me for over 14
years, but they are both at least 16 years old. For the past year, I
noticed that when I wake up in the morning, Sleepy would say, and I
mean utter the word "Hello". He has been doing this for about a year
now and I just can't get over the fact that he always say "hello" to
me first thing every morning. I think that Sleepy is one intelligent
creature and I love both Sleepy and Happy.  Thanks to Carolyn B. for
sharing her story.

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Give your kitchen a fresh look with new kitchen towels and matching
hot pad.  This set is ideal to hang on your stove or cabinets with
easy on/off velcro closure. Available in a wide selection of animal
print fabrics.  Please contact us for that one of a kind special
order.  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4) ASK THE VET
   Dear Dr. Shawn:"My puppy has demodectic mange. Our veterinarian has
proposed  using a dip called Mitaban to cure the mange. I've done
some reading and from what I can tell, Mitaban is pretty toxic. Is
there anything safer I can use on him?"
  A: "Demodectic mange is a genetic disease in dogs. It usually shows
up in pets under 1 year of age. Basically, your puppy has inherited a
defect in his immune system that allows the mange to form. All dogs
harbor small number of demodectic mange mites (microscopic insects)
in their hair follicles. Most of these dogs never develop the disease
we call mange. Only those pets with inherited immune problems will
develop mange  the mites multiply out of control and cause the
disease. While the problem usually occurs in puppies, older dogs can
also develop demodectic mange. These dogs often have an underlying
immune system disorder such as thyroid disease (hypothyrodism,)
adrenal gland disease (Cushing's disease,) or cancer. As such, all
dogs over 1
year of age must be screened for these underlying disorders that
allow the normally silent mites to multiply out of control.
Mitaban can be toxic and must be used safely. There are 2 forms of
demodectic mange, localized and generalized disease. Mitaban should
never be used in
localized mange to prevent the mites from developing resistance to
the disease. Localized mange can easily be treated with gentle
therapies such as chlorophyll or aloe vera ointment, benzoyl peroxide
ointment, and homeopathic sulfur. Generalized mange requires more
aggressive therapy, and often Mitaban is needed (sometimes
antibiotics are also needed if secondary infections are present.) For
generalized disease, I also recommend herbs and nutritional
supplements such as echinacea, medicinal mushrooms, and larch
arabinogalactans to help boost the puppy's immune system. Because
this is a genetic disease, affected dogs must not be bred and should
be neutered once the disease is treated."

  Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the Natural Vet series from
Prima,including The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution
for Dogs,and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs &
Cats.For your weekly dose of holistic pet care, read Dr. Shawn's
column TheHolistic Pet in your local paper. You can contact him at
  naturalvet@...

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Debbie W .....winner of the oven mitt for April.
May's drawing is our specially designed softsided cloth billfold for
your outdoor activities when you want to travel light without bulk.
After entering your name vote for your choice of this month's
fabric.  The "too cool canines" featured on our web site were
submitted by Lisa S. and Martin & Alaine L.  Thanks to them for
sending their precious dog photos.
We would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
his/her photos.

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs      April 2002
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff

1) WHAT'S NEW
Customer Service is very important to us at Animal Designs.  As an
ongoing effort to bring you the best, would you take a few moments to
answer a brief survey.  To respond, click here,
http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?DNQ6KW0V0BTFDBMXJRWDFWYT
type in your response to each question and then send.  All replies
are anonymous and your participation will help us to serve you
better. Once again thank you.

2) PET JOURNALS
  I was on my way to work when I saw a box turtle at the edge of the
road trying to cross.  I pulled over and got out to move him to
safety. This has been a habit of mine for years. The first thing I
noticed as I walked toward him was the beautiful colors of his shell
and scales. He was colored like the leaves of a fall forest -- reds,
golds, and oranges lit by dappled sunlight. I was about twenty feet
away when the little guy turned his head my way, and looked at me. He
must have figured that I was a threat because he decided to turn
around and head back into the grassy cover of the ditch. As he began
to maneuver, I saw his right front arm was gone at the shoulder and
his left rear leg was gone from about the radius downward. His little
shell tipped forward and down to the right, then up, and back to the
left as he hobbled around, just as quick as he could manage -- all
the while trying to keep an eye on me. His turn was wide and taking
him dangerously close to the roadway and the traffic. I hurried over
and picked him up. He never hissed, or pulled into his shell. He sat
there in my hands and looked at me with his brown eyes, blinking.
There was an awareness in his eyes. I saw it in the way his gaze
flitted around my face. He was light as a feather, even though he was
obviously a full grown tortoise of some age. The edges of his shell
were pitted and deeply rutted, the topmost portion looked as if he'd
been dragged upside down on the gravel. His belly plate was concave
which meant a male, and had been cracked in several places. There was
a large diagonal gash running from the hinge to just under the
missing front arm. This caused a forward-facing V which had dug in
when turned. His disabilities must have made feeding a difficult
thing with his single front arm for digging out and holding down
grubs and other food, as well as the V shaped crack making digging a
burrow a very difficult job. Probably the only thing that kept a
raccoon or opossum from digging him up at night was the proximity of
the highway. I stood there at the edge of the busy highway holding
this gallant little guy, looking at his old injuries, and looking
into his little face with one of his arms wrapped tightly around my
thumb. I could not resist gently stroking that little head and neck.
Then he did the most amazing thing. Instead of pulling his head away
defensively, this old fella who had been through so much hurt merely
closed his eyes. He owned me then and there, even though I didn't
know that this little sweetheart would sit with me for hours
fascinated by the light and sound of the television -- his little
face so intent and earnest, as his eyes follow the flicker of the
screen. I didn't know how cute the little guy would be when he digs
into the terrarium bedding ostrich-style, leaving his little round
butt in the air, which I cover for him. I didn't know that when the
weather was cold and damp outside that the little fella would huddle
up against my throat -- that my body heat must feel good to his
little stumps then. But I knew that my heart was stolen.
www.petwarmers.com

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Spring has arrived and our animal print visor will add style and
comfort to your outdoor activities.  This custom cotton visor has the
same fabric on both sides making it reversible.   Features a flexible
coiled band for the perfect fit in addition to being washable. Great
for the show, beach, golf game or just around town.  Check the many
patterns available at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4) ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"I was considering supplementing my cat's diet with
omega-3 fatty acids. Should I use flax seed oil or is fish oil
better?"
A:"Both flax seed oil and fish oil are popular fatty acid supplements
for  pets. You can use either on your cat
for general health, but if your cat has a specific need than which
fatty acid you choose will make a difference.
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are derived from fish oils of
coldwater fish and flax seed, whereas
omega-6 fatty acids (LA) and GLA) are derived from the oils of seeds
such as evening primrose, black
currant, and borage. In general, the products of omega-3
(specifically EPA) and one omega-6 fatty acid
(DGLA) are less inflammatory than the products of arachidonic acid
(another omega-6 fatty acid.) By
adding omega-3 fatty acids to your cat's diet, it is possible to
modify (decrease) inflammation within the
body. By providing the proper (anti-inflammatory) fatty acids, we can
use fatty acids as an anti-inflammatory
substance
If you are using fatty acids as a coat and skin supplement, a
combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty
acids will work fine. If you are using supplementation for a disease
such as allergies, arthritis, heart, or
kidney disease, you would be better off using fish oil as a source of
omega-3 fatty acids. As I discuss in
The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, flax seed oil is a popular
source of ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid
that is ultimately converted to EPA and DHA. However, many species of
pets and some people cannot
convert ALA to these other more active non-inflammatory omega-3 fatty
acids. In one study in people with
asthma, flax seed oil was ineffective in reducing symptoms or raising
levels of EPA and DHA. While
flaxseed oil has been suggested as a less smelly substitute for fish
oil, there is no evidence that it is effective when used for the same
therapeutic purposes as fish oil.  Therefore, supplementation with
EPA and DHA is important, and this is the reason flax seed oil is not
recommended as the sole fatty acid supplement for pets with
inflammatory conditions. In my practice, I use fish oil
supplementation for a variety of medical disorders. I do not find
they work well by themselves but have an additive effect when
combined with other supplements (herbs, homeopathics, nutritional
products.) Fish oil can be provided as a liquid or gel capsule.
Studies show that the label doses of fish oil are too low for
treating diseases (they are OK as a coat supplement.) I recommend
using 2-4 times the label dose to achieve anti-inflammatory levels.
Your doctor can prescribe the best product for your cat.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of The Arthritis Solution for Dogs,
The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural
Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. For your weekly dose of holistic pet
care, read Dr. Shawn's column The Holistic Pet in your local paper.
Please address questions to him at naturalvet@....

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Virginia W.....winner of the visor for March.
April's drawing is an oven mitt for those upcoming BBQ's . After
entering your name, vote for your choice of this month's fabric and
remember, we would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a
copy of his/her photo's.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.     <http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320>


All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs-The Gift Place for Pet & Animal Lovers
Toll-Free 1-866-468-1739
www.animaldesigns.com

What's New @ Animal Designs      March 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff

1) WHAT'S NEW
Free CD with your order!    Receive our new  electronic catalog
showcasing our products.    Includes 60+ pages of color layouts that
can be viewed at your convenience.   If you want just a catalog, we
can mail you the CD for a nominal cost of $2.00 S&H which will be
credited to your first order.   Send  check or money order payable to
Animal Designs, P.O. Box 208, Lewisberry, Pa. 17339.

2) PET JOURNALS
  After a rainy and dreary Tuesday, evening had finally arrived and I
was looking forward to bringing the horses in for the night. I was
then going to relax in front of the TV to watch a movie, which was a
rare treat in my hectic schedule. Then the phone rang. Gary, my
husband, answered the phone, and was soon laughing. Wondering what
was so funny, I waited for him to explain. Now consumed by laughter,
he could only pass the phone to me. Apparently, when Deb, a friend of
mine, got home that evening, her neighbors, the Thompson's, told her
that a sheep had been staring at its reflection in their basement
window all day. Being a member of the same animal rescue organization
I belong to, Deb offered to help the Thompson's find the owner of
this stray sheep. However, they were not successful in their search.
It was getting dark and cold, and this sheep needed some shelter for
the night. Even though they were long-term residents of this semi-
rural area, neither Deb nor the Thompson's were familiar with how to
handle a sheep, therefore they had not tried to actually catch it
yet. It was staying very close to its reflection in the window, but
when approached by people, the sheep would move to just out of arm's
reach. Not knowing what to do, they called me -- the only person they
could think of that might be able to help. I have to admit that I was
a bit reluctant to go to the Thompson's house that drizzly evening.
Although I am comfortable with goats, I had never handled a sheep.
What I did know was that although ewes can be docile, rams (male
sheep) have a reputation for being aggressive. I had visions of an
enormous ram that would take my barn by storm, terrorizing the
horses, pygmy goats, and various other critters that I have there.
While I was dazed by those unpleasant thoughts, Gary (still
chuckling) was getting the bait -- a bucket of whole corn. Finally
accepting that I had no other choice, I gave a deep sigh and began
gathering ropes, halters, collars and leashes -- anything I could
think of to catch this sheep. When Gary and I got to the Thompson's
house, Deb held a flashlight for us while we looked at the sheep for
the first time. We were very relieved to find a young ewe that
appeared to have been well cared for. She was also hungry enough to
go for the bait, and allowed Gary to grab onto her fleece. I then
quickly slipped a leash around her neck. A quick check of her teeth
told us that she was only a lamb, probably around seven months old.
We loaded her in the back of my minivan and headed back home. Once
home, we were faced with the decision of where to keep her. Every
stall already contained a horse, pony, or pygmy goats. Since I breed
pygmy goats, I had a young pygmy buck that was in a stall by himself.
Since this sheep was not the big, nasty ram we were expecting, we
decided to see how she would react to sharing a stall with this young
fellow. We were pleasantly surprised when she lay down and let him
snuggle up to her. She settled right into our barn, and the next day
I posted a "Found" ad in the newspaper. By the time she was claimed
two days later, we had become quite smitten with her. Our children
had named her Marshmallow, and the billy goat was always by her side.
The family that had lost her had purchased her as a pet for their
children, so they were very happy to have her back. Before letting
the family take her, I asked them to promise me that they would let
me have her back if she did not turn out to be the pet they had in
mind. I'll be waiting by the phone.
www.petwarmers.com

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Give your kitchen a new look for spring with our matching towels and
hotpad set.  Set includes two terrycloth towels with easy on/off
velcro closure and 9"X9" hotpad.   Ideal to hang on your stove or
cabinets.  To view the kitchen towel sets and place an order visit
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4) ASK THE VET
A Holistic Look At The Spaying (Ovariohysterectomy) Procedure.
The spaying (ovariohysterectomy) procedure is commonly performed on
puppies and kittens and occasionally older dogs and cats. While
complications are rare, it seems that most pet owners have heard of
at least one horror story where an apparently healthy pet died under
anesthesia or developed serious complications. A holistic
approach to spaying minimizes the problems that can occur with the
procedure.
In the spaying procedure the ovaries and uterus are removed,
preventing future pregnancies and infections and cancers of the
reproductive organs. When done before the first heat cycle, which
usually occurs between 6 and 12 months of age, spaying almost totally
eliminates the chance of pets developing breast cancer as well. This
is a great example of how pet owners can actually prevent what used
to be a very common pet cancer.
The holistic approach to anesthesia and pain control avoids the "one
size fits all" approach that can occur in conventional practices,
where every pet is given the same anesthetics and pain medications
regardless of individual needs and differences. The most holistic
approach accepts the fact that the patient is an individual pet, and
the anesthetic and pain control regimen selected takes this into
account. The anesthetic and pain-killing drugs chosen for the pet may
not be the best for the next patient presented for the spaying
operation.
The most holistic anesthetic provides relaxation and unconsciousness
during the surgery, and allows for a
quick recovery. Prolonged recoveries are rarely needed for spaying
procedures and predispose the pets to
low body temperature and other metabolic problems Most horror stories
of pets dying under anesthesia or
being "doped up" for hours or days after surgery involve anesthetics
such as long acting intramuscular
injections of ketamine and xylazine that depress the pet for
prolonged periods of time.
In my holistic practice, I use intravenous butorphanol,
buprenorphine, or xylazine to quickly sedate the pet, and
then rely on gas anesthesia (isoflurane) to allow the pet quick
recovery.  The pet is discharged in the afternoon the day of the
surgery, and most act totally normal as if they never had surgery!
Pain is controlled by butorphanol or buprenorphine during the surgery
and then butorphanol or a non-steroidal post operatively for a few
days. This holistic approach is well appreciated by owners.
Postoperative use of homeopathics (such as arnica or hypericum) can
also be used.   Feeding a natural diet and using nutritional
supplements to support the liver as it detoxifies the drugs used
during the surgery (such as milk thistle) round out the holistic
approach. The best advice for concerned pet owners is to discuss
these issues with your doctor before the surgery.
Adapted from The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, Prima, 2001.
Direct any questions to:
Shawn Messonnier DVM  naturalvet@...

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Cathy S.....winner of the mini-bag for February.
March's drawing is our flexible and comfortable visor. After entering
your name, vote for your choice of this month's fabric and remember,
we would like to honor your Pet next month, so send us a copy of
his/her photo's.

All the best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs       February 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff

1) WHAT'S NEW
After numerous inquiries for products with your pet's picture, Animal
Designs is pleased to announce we now offer digital imaging.  Turn
your precious memories into Lifetime Keepsakes of your dog, cat,
horse, bird or any pet special to you.  This personalized photo gift
can be done on ceramic mugs, tote bags, mouse pads, sweatshirts or
just about anything you want.  Contact us either by email:
sewn@...  or use our toll free # 1-866-468-1739

2) PET JOURNALS
Anyone who has said "cats don't talk" has obviously never spent more
than 5 minutes around felines. Not only do my cats speak to each
other, but they speak to us humans and have even been known to have
inter-species conversations with birds, mice and even the occasional
canine! How, you may ask, do I know all of this? Well, I have spent
my entire life living with felines, canines and other creatures such
as rodents, birds and reptiles (only those with feet). As I am older
than dirt, I guess that translates into my being an expert in the
field! Just the other day, I overheard my cat speaking with a bird
outside the window. The cat was inside on the sill making a noise
that reminds me of the "choppers" from M*A*S*H. It sounded to the
untrained ear like "ackkkackkk". As an expert in feline-ology I knew
exactly what was being said and will happily translate for you right
now. Cat: "Bird you are beautiful and so full of breast I feel
inclined to swoop down upon you and devour your very self."
Bird: "HAHAHA! Foolish cat, it is true that I am beautiful and
exquisite beyond measure, but you are mistaken in your ability to
devour me. There is a screen between us and we are positioned on
opposite sides of this barrier. Thus, you are incapable of capturing
me." Cat: "Bird, you are indeed foolish in your thoughts, for not
only am I capable of escaping from this enclosure, but my paws are
swift and my claws deadly." Bird: "Oh cat, you forget that I am
capable of flight, while you are earthbound. I would easily escape
your fleet feet and deadly claws." Cat: "Oh bird, how you
underestimate my powers of acceleration and acrobatic leaps. I could
quite easily capture you within my front claws and shred your
beautiful plumage in an instant." Bird: "It is possible you speak the
truth cat. I think perhaps it is in my best interest to fly away
before you can escape your earthly bindings." Cat: "Come back here
you COWARD!" Imagine all that gleaned from just a few throaty
aackaackks. And there are other conversations I've been privy to as
well. When my newest feline member was busily putting down a
rebellion of cellophane candy wrappers after Halloween, the oldest
female in my feline bunch sniffed and huffed at her. Not much of a
conversation, you may say. But you would be wrong! In the one sniff
and two huffs, the elder conveyed to the kitten that she was wasting
her time on the silly candy wrappers and that she really needed to
climb to the top of the cat tree and scream for a human to come carry
her into the laundry room where the sock action is. When the
youngster ignored her advice, a swift swat brought the youngster into
line and she immediately followed the sage advice of the elder and
wiser feline. This resulted in many cuddles from the human (me) and a
transport into the laundry room where a sock rebellion was quickly
put down. So remember to listen to your felines. They are wise beyond
words. It has been rumored that dogs speak as well, but that is a
story for another day! --
www.petwarmers.com

  We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our
pets, so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each
month to feature in our newsletter.


3) FEATURED ITEM
Looking for the perfect Valentine's Day gift?  Say I love you with a
cozy polar fleece scarf in your favorite animal print.  Generously
sized 56" x 9", blanket stitching on the outer edge. Machine
washable.  Be sure and check out our entire collection of scarves
with over 20 patterns to choose from at our online store.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html?
catid=20&sid=6Op7@...

4) ASK THE VET
Dear Dr. Shawn:"Last year I started taking better care of myself.
I've incorporated various holistic
therapies, and have improved my diet by eating more organic foods and
less processed products.  Here's my problem: I want to provide this
same improved lifestyle for my dog and cat. My husband likes our
current veterinarian who is strictly conventional and does not see
any reason to find a holistic practitioner. Can you provide an answer
for me to give him when he asks what is the difference between what a
holistic veterinarian does differently than a conventional doctor?"
A:"That's a good question. As you have experienced yourself, a more
holistic approach is making you
healthier and feeling better. Instead of just supplying my thoughts
to your question, I posed it to my holistic
veterinary colleagues around the globe. Here are some of their
answers, and I'll conclude with my own.
One holistic veterinarian answered your question this way: The quick
answer is that a holistic physician
treats the patient, a conventional one treats diseases. A "holistic"
veterinarian looks at the "whole" animal
and not just the "condition" that the owner is concerned about. With
holistic treatment, you will generally
see an improvement in the "whole" animal overall. In "traditional"
care, we are trained to treat "X" condition
with "Y" treatment (very cook book method) as we learned in vet
school or from a book. In "holistic" care,
we treat the patient after evaluation of the individual, entire
patient.
Another doctor shares this: Practitioners of complementary medicine
have more treatment choices.
Because of this, they may be better able to use less toxic, more
holistic therapies than veterinarians not
trained in complementary care.
A third doctor replied that she uses therapies with little to no side
effects and try with as little
manipulation as possible to encourage the animal's own healing
abilities. She believes that a holistic doctor
approaches an animal thinking, "how can I help this animal become
healthier?" rather than, "how can I
diagnose and treat this disease?" and then, perhaps, the animal will
be healthier.
Here's the answer I gave during a recent TV interview: When I only
practice conventional medicine, if I
could not help the pet that was the end of the story. With
complementary therapies, I have twice as many
treatment options as before and can help many of the pets that
previously were untreatable. Also, as a
conventional doctor I was trained to "treat" diseases and patients.
By incorporating a holistic approach I
have learned to "heal" pets rather than just treat them, increasing
my ability to help my patients by
improving their quality of life."
Shawn Messonnier DVM
naturalvet@...

author, The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, The Allergy Solution for
Dogs,
and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats.


5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Teresa L.....winner of the plastic bag holder for
January.  February's drawing is our versatile mini-bag for all those
odds & ends.  After entering your name, vote for your choice of this
month's fabric and remember, we would like to honor your Pet next
month, so send us a copy of his/her photo's.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.     <http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320>


All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs                       January 2002
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Ask the Vet
5.  Drawing and Fun Stuff


1) WHAT'S NEW
We wish you all the best for a happy and prosperous New Year and want
to thank you for your interest and continued support in making Animal
Designs a success.  This month, we are adding a new section to our
newsletter,  "Ask the Vet"  Dr. Shawn Messonnier, D.V.M., a holistic
veterinarian and a nationally recognized expert on integrative
medicine for animals.  As a  lecturer, consultant, and pet care
advocate,  he has authored several books, including  the award-
winning book The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats (Prima, 2001.)
Any questions you have may be addressed to him at naturalvet@...

2) PET JOURNALS
YOUR DOG'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS.... I will not play tug-of-war with
Dad's underwear when he's on the toilet...   The garbage collector is
NOT stealing our stuff...    I do not need to suddenly stand straight
up when I'm lying under the coffee table...    I will not roll my
toys behind the fridge...   I must shake the rainwater out of my fur
BEFORE entering the house...   I will not eat the cats' food, before,
or after, they eat it...  I will stop trying to find the few
remaining pieces of carpet in the house when I am about to throw
up... I will not throw up in the car... I will not roll on dead
seagulls, fish, crabs, etc... The litter box is not a cookie jar....
I will not wake up Mommy by putting my cold, wet nose up her bottom
end.... I will not chew my human's toothbrush and not tell them.... I
will not chew crayons or pens, especially not the red ones, or my
people will think that I am hemorrhaging... When in the car, I will
not insist on having the window rolled down when it's raining
outside.... I will not drop soggy tennis balls in the underwear of
someone who is sitting on the toilet.... We do not have a doorbell.
Therefore, I will not bark each time I hear one on the television....
I will not steal my Mom's underwear and dance all over the back yard
with them... The sofa is not a face towel. Neither are Mom & Dad's
laps.... My head does not belong in the refrigerator... I will not
bite the officer's hand when he reaches in for Mom's driver's license
and car registration... --petwarmers.com

  We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our
pets, so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each
month to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
The featured item for January is an attractive and practical draft
stopper.  Just place one of these at your door to keep away the
winter chill or use it as a colorful addition to your home decor.  To
see the many pattern selections, visit:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html  If you
have a favorite animal print, just email us with your request.

4) ASK THE VET
Q: Dear Dr. Shawn:"My dog Harvey is taking joint supplements for his
arthritis. He is scheduled for surgery
next week to remove a tumor on his chest. Do I need to stop giving
him his supplements before surgery?"

A:"Regarding supplements and surgery, always tell the doctor what
supplements your pet is taking (as well
as any medications.) Sometimes various supplements and medications
should be stopped before surgery
to prevent problems.  For example, ginkgo biloba can increase blood
clotting times in people (and probably pets.) While studies are not
available, it seems reasonable to follow the recommendation to stop
ginkgo supplements about 1 week before and 24 hours after surgery.
Kava should be discontinued 24 hours prior to anesthesia, as it has
been shown to lengthen barbiturate-induced sleep in animals (although
I do not use barbiturates, your doctor may so it's always wise to ask
about the anesthetic that will be used.) There is strong evidence
that St. John's wort affects metabolism of a number of drugs
including warfarin,digoxin and cyclosporine. Talk with your doctor if
your pet is taking any of these medications and you are considering
this herbal sedative. Because valerian has also been shown to
increase barbiturate-sleep in animals, caution is suggested with
anesthetics. The authors caution about a valerian withdrawal syndrome
and recommend that patients be weaned off valerian over the course of
several weeks prior to surgery.
The Veterinary Botanical Society is looking into negative effects of
herbs and how we can use them more
safely. While many holistic-minded folks think that all "natural"
therapies are totally safe, as can be seen
from the answer to your question this is not always true. Do not use
any herbal preparations without
veterinary supervision, and then only use high quality products from
reputable companies (your doctor can
make recommendations.) When you remember that many plants serve as
the source of conventional
medications (for example, white willow bark contains acetylsalicilic
acid, or aspirin,) it makes sense to use
care when treating with herbs!"

5)  DRAWING & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Danny G...winner of the Draw String Bag for
December.  The prize for January's drawing is a Plastic Bag Holder
for all those accumulating shopping bags.  After entering your name,
vote for your choice of this month's fabric and remember, we would
like to honor Your pet next month, so send us a copy of his/her
photo's.


As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.     http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs                            December 2001
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Sites of Interest
5.  Contest & Fun Stuff

1) WHAT'S NEW
Animal Designs wishes the best of the Holiday Season to you and your
families, both human and furry.  We are starting off the season with
a new look.  We've redesigned and streamlined our site to make it
easier to use.  We have kept all your favorite features and added a
few new ones.  One of these is our Customer Fun page where we will
honor your pets, so please send us photos of your family.  To see the
new design, go to www.animaldesigns.com and let us know how you like
it.

2) PET JOURNALS
Bill was a very lonely man. His wife had recently died. It was near
Christmas and he had become very grumpy and introverted. He never
went out of his house. The neighbors and everybody had tried to draw
him out but he had just lost interest in life. At that time I was
doing pet therapy. I would take a dog from the humane society, where
I worked, to visit people in rest homes to brighten their day. On
this particular day, I took a little dog named Wilbur that looked
like Toto from the Wizard of Oz, only with longer, black hair. It
said on his chart that he was terribly destructive, that he barked,
he dug, he was obnoxious and couldn't be trusted alone, but he was
adorable. I took him to the rest home and he was wonderful with the
people there. Everybody loved him. While there, a nurse said, "Oh, he
is such a cute dog." I asked her, "Do you know anybody that would
benefit from having a little dog?" She answered, "Well, he doesn't
know he'd benefit but I think my neighbor Bill would." We plotted
together. She would tell Bill that he had to go out to the humane
society because there was this certain friend out there for him to
meet. When Bill came out to the humane society, he walked along the
cages and Wilbur reacted as if he recognized Bill, barking wildly.
Bill said, "What are you barking at, you little rascal?" Bill
approached Wilbur's kennel and the dog went bananas, like a dog
overjoyed to see his owner. I told him, "You won't believe this, but
that's the dog I want you to take home." "Well, that sounds good to
me, because I sure want to take him," Bill said. Bill was able to
adopt Wilbur through the Pets for People Program for people over 60
where the Purina Company will pay for the pet and up to $100 of vet
bills, spaying or neutering. After Wilbur's adoption, Bill took him
fishing and just about everywhere. When he wrote his Christmas cards,
Wilbur was right beside him. He took Wilbur to the groomer. They were
always together. All the kids in the neighborhood would drop by and
say, "We came to visit Wilbur." It was as if both of them had been
reborn. Bill became outgoing again because now he had a buddy. It was
amazing to watch -- truly a miracle. It was like they were made to be
together. Wilbur had brought Bill back from despair to having an
interest in life again. And Bill had saved Wilbur's life. Bill has a
friend now and through that friend he has many friends. -- petwarmers

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Our soft and cozy slip-ons are sure to keep your feet warm this
winter.  Made of cotton/flannel outside with polar fleece inner
lining, they are generously padded and have a non-skid sole. These
slip-ons conform naturally to your feet and best of all are
washable.   To custom make a pair just for you, select your favorite
print at http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=28&p_catid=21&sid=6Op7@...


4) SITES OF INTEREST
Pets on the Go-Informational site for those wanting to take their
pets along on vacation.
http://www.petsonthego.com/

Humane Society Adoptions-Website featuring Humane Societies, Animal
Shelters and Rescue organizations across the U.S. that post their
adoptable pets on the Web.
http://www.humanesocietyadoptions.com/

Bow Wow Meow-Thousands of Pet Names, meanings, and popularity.
http://www.bowwow.com.au/

5) CONTEST & FUN STUFF
Congratulations to Linda T....winner of the oven mitt in November.
The prize for December's drawing is a small draw string bag for
storing your odds and ends.   After entering your name for the
monthly drawing, vote for your choice of this month's fabrics and
take the quick poll.

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs                            November 2001
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Sites of Interest
5.  Contest & Trivia


1) WHAT'S NEW
You will forget about your old slippers when you wear our newest
design.  These soft and cozy slip-ons are sure to keep your feet warm
this winter.  Made of cotton/flannel outside with polar fleece inner
lining, they are generously padded and have a non-skid sole. These
slip-ons conform naturally to your feet and best of all are
washable.   To custom make a pair just for you, select your favorite
print at http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?
p_prodid=28&p_catid=21&sid=6Op7@...

Also, be sure and check out the exciting new items just listed at our
one-of-a-kind page.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/oneofkind.htm.

2) PET JOURNALS
Even as the heinous devastation of our city, our people, remains too
surreal to comprehend, New Yorkers and our animals are caring for
each other. As reality began to settle in, many people's thoughts
turned to the pets and their owners affected by the tragedy. Hundreds
of guardians were lucky enough to take their pets when they
evacuated, but now are homeless and in shelters. Thousands of animals
are stranded in the frozen zone, scared, possibly hurt, breathing the
noxious fumes, with their people frantic to get to them. There are
other pets, all over the metropolitan area, waiting for guardians who
will never return. It was only Tuesday afternoon when I started
experiencing the first stories of compassion. Survivors struggling
uptown with their arms carrying unknown stunned or injured animals.
Pet recovery units set up at the Jersey City and Chelsea Piers triage
centers. Animal shelters, clinics and individuals offering free care
and kenneling for rescue volunteers. And neighbors posting signs
saying, "The super let me in and I have "XXXXX" - He's OK but wants
You safely home". As the week has gone on, we've become more
organized. The ASPCA emergency unit is established near Ground Zero
and veterinarians are being escorted into frozen areas to retrieve
pets locked in homes and help those found on the street. Rumor has it
that within the first four hours of posting, over 20,000 volunteers
were listed. Thousands of tons of dry and canned food, doggie booties
and can openers have been contributed for rescue dogs working at
Ground Zero. For those people in shelters with their pets, it goes
even further. Thousands of individuals have donated dog biscuits,
bones and other treats -- brushes, combs, shampoos, carriers,
leashes, beds, lambskins and catnip friends. (Kudos go to Petco and
Whiskers, in particular, for their efforts and discounts, but I'm
sure others are helping.) We all concur that it would comfort us to
comfort our pets should we be in the same situation. But there are
other stories, stories of pets giving to and reassuring their people,
plus at least one or a few miracles. I heard of one seeing-eye dog
who lost its way in the second plume and deserted its charge, only to
return 35 minutes later with help. And one retriever managed to get
almost 25 blocks north, arriving (maybe by chance, but we pet people
understand otherwise) at the same check point where her "dad"
anxiously tried to convince the police to let him search for her.
Equally impressive and important are those pets giving solace to the
legions of us fortunate enough not to lose a family member or close
friends. The litter box-trained Maltese who, on the third day,
repeatedly dropped her leash on her master's chest, finally pulling
him away from the horrors on TV to eat and venture outside where he
found comfort with others. Or the dogs who pull, as never before, on
their leashes to lick the hands or faces of those posting photos of
their loved ones, providing comfort to them, and giving us an opening
to care or comfort. Or the cat who howled by the door of an elderly
owner who had fallen, hit his head and, as it turned out, broken a
hip, but didn't want to call and pull an ambulance away from the
emergency. In my case it's Jaspurr, my 18-year-old self-absorbed
black cat. Yet immediately after he registered my cries of anguish as
I watched the second plane ram the World Trade Center, Jaspurr has
focused his attention on me. The past four nights I haven't slept
more than an hour or so at a time. But Jaspurr is on my chest, side
or back, regardless of whether I'm awake or dozing. During the day
he's at the desk or computer, always within reach. He greets me at
the door as I come back from trying to do something, anything, to
help. And he has yet to complain about the "junk food" I get at
supermarkets, since our natural pet stores are all closed. Quite
simply, if I'm home, he's touching me. I believe we're both finding
comfort from that. I know I am. So, fellow animal lovers, know that
we New Yorkers are doing our part for pets and their people, and
they're doing the same for us. May you all respect your neighbors,
regardless of their heritage or religion, pray for the dead and their
families and give your children and your pets extra hugs of love and
appreciation. We are passionate New Yorkers, proud Americans.
petwarmers.com

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
If you missed our selection of polar fleece scarves, stop in and see
the many new colors and animal prints recently added.   Incredibly
soft and warm, generously sized 56" x 9", quality blanket stitching
on the outer edge and  machine washable.  A very popular item for
those cold and windy days.  Choose your favorite scarf from more than
20 patterns at  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html?catid=20&sid=6Op7@V0HE7j11v7-
07101551521.35


4) SITES OF INTEREST
About.com's comprehensive web guide to dog-related sites
http://dogs.about.com/

AAHA Healthypet-An organization of more than 17,000 veterinary care
providers committed to giving you excellence in small animal care.
http://www.healthypet.com/

Pet Insurance Now
http://www.petinsurancenow.com/

5)  CONTEST & TRIVIA
Congratulations to Deborah P...winner of the stuffed dog bone toy for
October.  The prize for November's drawing is an Oven Mitt to help
you handle those hot meals.   After entering your name, check out the
new trivia questions and vote for your choice of this month's fabrics.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
we've provided this link for sharing this newsletter with your
friends.     <http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=620320>

All the best,
Jeanie

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Sites of Interest
5.  Contest & Trivia
6.  How to Unsubscribe


1) WHAT'S NEW
With a chill in the air that reminds us cold weather is approaching
and the gift giving season is just around the corner, polar fleece
scarves are here!  These scarves are incredibly soft and warm,
generously sized 56" x 9", blanket stitching on the outer edge and
machine washable.  It is the perfect gift and you will be remembered
warmly on those cold and windy days.   Visit our on-line store to see
the many selections and check a scarf out for yourself too.
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_prod.html?



2) PET JOURNALS
Through the years, my 10-year-old daughter has proven to be quite the
horsewhisperer. And there is no story as amazing as the bond she has
with her Arabain mare, Misty. We decided last March to find a horse
for Carli to show in 4H events and open horse shows. So, I got on the
Internet and went searching. I found an Arabian and contacted the
person to make an appointment to see her. When we got there, the mare
was in very bad shape. She was skin and bones and looked to be on her
last leg. Carli begged us to buy the horse anyway. So with our
hearts, and not our heads, we brought her home. Carli took over the
care of the animal and spent countless hours with her, nursing her
back to health. The bond between them was instant. Misty actually
danced around when she saw Carli coming to see her. We have joked
with Carli that she can talk to and understand Misty and Carli's
responce has always been, "Yes I can." And it seemed that she could.
If Misty would act up with any of us, Carli would talk to her and she
would calm right down and do what she was supposed to do. And Misty
seemed to know when Carli was in a bad mood or hurting for whatever
reason. Last week she proved that point. Carli woke me up in the
middle of the night with a very bad stomach ache. I got up with her
and spent the night with her. At 4am, Carli finally settled down and
went to sleep. That morning, my husband went to feed the horses
before going to work. Later, when he called me from work, he told me
that I had better head to the barn because Misty had colic, and
wouldn't eat. She was laying down and had a hard time getting up. We
were very concerned because she was recently bred. I woke up Carli to
tell her that I was going to the barn to see the horses. I got to the
barn and found Misty laying down, and groaning. I got her to her
feet, and took her for a walk to see if I could walk the colic out of
her. While walking, Carli called me on my cell phone to see why I
wasn't home yet, and to ask me how Misty was doing. I was suprised to
hear her ask that and asked her why she thought she was sick. Carli's
response was, "She is sick for me." I really didnt know how to
answer, so I just told Carli she was doing better. I put her back in
the barn and called Carli and told her I was coming home. After about
an hour, Carli got sick again. I took care of her and then something
told me to head to the barn again. Sure enough, I got to the barn and
Misty was down again. So, we went walking again. Carli called again
and this time I started putting two and two together. I told Carli to
talk to Misty and tell her that she was fine, so she should get
better too. I am not sure what Carli told her when I held the cell
phone to Misty's ear, but the horse never moved a muscle while
listening to Carli. When Carli was done, I walked Misty back to the
barn, and came home again. I never did ask Carli what she told Misty.
But they both were well the rest of the day, and have had no more
episodes since. You hear of stories where dogs or cats know when
their owner is sick or sad, but this is the first time I had seen a
horse tuned in so much to their owner that they actually feel their
sickness with them. In telling this story to people in our area, I
get mixed responses. Some say it is coincidence, but I don't think
so. I think that the bond between them is so strong they are
connected in a way that we will never understand. Carli made a
promise to Misty the day we brought her home that she would never be
sold to anyone or ever be hungry again. And we intend to keep that
promise.  petwarmers.com

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
Keep your tea warmer with our practical tea cozy.  This handcrafted
padded cozy is washable and adjustable to fit most teapot sizes.
Makes a great gift, an addition to your collection, or a conversation
piece when entertaining.  Choose from many colorful animal print
fabrics at
  http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.htm
If you have a particular animal print in mind, email us with your
request.

4) SITES OF INTEREST
The Daily Dog-Canine-related news, helpful hints and more.
http://dailydogcom.readyhosting.com/

Petwork-A network of resources and information for pet lovers
http://www.petwork.com/

5)  CONTEST & TRIVIA
Congratulations to Leslie M....winner of the billfold for September.
The prize for October's drawing is a stuffed dog bone toy with our
logo.   After entering your name, check out the new trivia questions
and vote for your choice of this month's fabrics.  Be sure to hit the
refresh/reload button on your browser to see the latest samples.



We at Animal Designs join with all of America to stand united for
freedom.  Let us not forget the lessons of Sept 11th and continuously
work to strengthen our resolve.

All the Best,
Jeanie

What's New @ Animal Designs                            September 2001
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1.  What's New
2.  Pet  Journals
3.  Featured Item
4.  Sites of Interest
5.  Contest & Trivia
6.  How to Unsubscribe


1) WHAT'S NEW
If you want convenience and practicality, check out our latest
billfold design.  This softsided cotton cloth billfold is perfect for
those times when you want convenience, not bulk. It features two (2)
card pockets, compartment  for paper money, nylon lining, velcro
closure and it's washable.   Measures 3" X 5" in size when folded.
Great to carry your money and credit cards when you want something
small and sporty.  Of course , it is available in many choices of
animal print fabrics at:
http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html
  or email us if you have a special request.

2) PET JOURNALS
When I got the call asking if I'd foster a puppy for a local rescue
organization, my first thought was to pass. We'd recently rescued a
three month old Pot Bellied pig, who was taking up all my time and
skills. Before I could make myself say "no", the person on the other
end of the line was pleading, "We have so few dog foster homes and
nobody can take a puppy right now... and he's a huge puppy. Can't you
take him just for a little while?" "Oh... sure," I sighed. "Bring him
over. What's one more, right?" That was nearly nine years ago. Connor
is still here. He was indeed a huge puppy. He was white, with gold
patches and big dark eyes. The police had found him abandoned on the
street. He was a sweet easy going puppy, a breeze to house-train, and
willing to do whatever we asked. Within a week, it was obvious to all
of us that Connor was here to stay. Our best guess was that he was a
combination Great Pyrenees and Golden Retriever. He had a decidedly
Pyr coat, along with the double dewclaws, and a Golden head. His
personality combined the sweetness and trainability of a Golden with
the single-minded devotion of a Pyr. One of my sons took Connor to my
Puppy Kindergarten class. That eight week class was the only formal
training he had, yet he unfailingly obeys all commands to this day.
From the beginning, it was as if he was simply refreshing his memory
of things he already knew. By the age of five months, he was visiting
the local senior center and going with me when I brought pets of all
description to local kindergartens, Boy Scout meetings, the Head
Start program, etc. He loved everyone he met, especially children. He
would sprawl on the floor, tail swishing happily, as kids climbed all
over him. Connor grew and grew, finally topping out at 130 pounds.
When my first granddaughter was born, he was immediately and
irretrievably in love. When she began to walk, he dutifully followed
her every step. Of course, he often drooled in her hair, causing her
to elbow him in the chest and order him to "get back"! I once
discovered her studiously brushing his teeth, one little fist
clutching his lip while the other vigorously cleaned those large
pearly whites. He sat there patiently until she was done. Connor has
been a gentle giant... with one memorable exception. My daughter, who
was twelve at the time, and my youngest son, who was seven, decided
to take Connor and Chiara, the Pitbull, for a walk. Two blocks from
home they encountered a man and a woman walking towards them. When
the couple was yards away, Connor stopped and refused to budge. His
gaze was fixed on the man. My daughter tried to urge him forward but
he refused to take another step. As the couple got closer, Connor
moved to stand in front of my daughter, blocking her path . Again he
refused to budge. (Chiara, a sweet dumb dog, was wagging her tail,
wanting to greet the two people who were approaching.) When the
couple called out a greeting, Connor responded with a menacing growl.
Now the kids were worried. Connor had never growled at anyone in his
life! They turned and hurried back home. Connor has never shown the
slightest aggression towards anyone since that occasion. He's a
senior citizen now, but still greets unfamiliar children by laying
down. He's happy to see everyone... friends and strangers alike. I've
never had a moment that I regretted taking him home. As a matter of
fact, I think God sent this guardian angel to us for a reason. You
see, the man he growled at that day was a convicted child molester.
petwarmers.com

We all  have stories that we like to tell our friends about our pets,
so send us your favorite "tail",  and we will select one each month
to feature in our newsletter.

3) FEATURED ITEM
One of our many exclusive designs are these popular hotpads in the
shape of dogs,cats,birds,cows and horses.  Made of cotton in your
favorite animal print, they measure  approx. 8" by 10" are washable,
reverse to matching color and great for use with any hot dish.  Makes
a unique all occasion gift and if you like the idea but want a
different animal fabric, email me with your request.  To view all the
pattern selections, visit: http://www.animaldesigns.com/cgi-
sz/webcwrap/szw/st_main.html

4) SITES OF INTEREST
Vet Centric-Online Resource for Veterinary Medicine
http://www.vetcentric.com/

BurnerKitty.com-Fun site for all your Pets Photos
http://www.burnerkitty.com


5)  CONTEST & TRIVIA
Congratulations to Vicki H......winner of the CD/DVD case for
August.  The prize for September's drawing is our latest exciting
item, a cloth billfold you can use wherever you go.   After entering
your name, check out the new trivia questions and vote for your
choice of this month's fabrics.  Be sure to hit the refresh/reload
button on your browser to see the latest samples.

6) HOW TO UNSUBSCRIBE
If you no longer wish to be on our mailing list or receive any
updates about products,  please reply to this email with unsubscribe
in the subject line.

As always, we appreciate your comments, questions and suggestions and
hope you enjoy sharing this newsletter with your friends.


All the Best,
Jeanie
Animal Designs-The Gift Place for Pet Lovers
Toll-Free 1-866-468-1739
www.animaldesigns.com