Category Archives: chocolate

February 4, 2014 · 2:24 pm

Chocolate & Dogs

  

Valentine’s Day is almost here and you are looking for unique ways to celebrate it not only with your loved ones, but also with your biggest admirers – your dogs!

Over 35 million people will receive heart shaped chocolate boxes this Valentine’s making it the busiest day for veterinarians to field calls and treat chocolate poisoning in dogs.

Dogs, like people, love chocolate.  Unfortunately for man’s best friend, chocolate is toxic and can cause severe poisoning and even death.  That’s because chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine (a stimulant similar to caffeine).  Dogs can’t process theobromine, so the levels accumulate and become deadly.

 

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Different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromine.  Dark or baker’s chocolate contains 10x more theobromine than milk chocolate.  Levels vary from 130mg to 450mg of theobromine in an ounce of dark chocolate to 44mg to 58mg in an ounce of milk chocolate.

It only takes 115mg of theobromine per 2.2 pounds of body weight to kill a dog. To put that in perspective, 2 ounces of dark chocolate or 20 ounces of milk chocolate could kill a 20 pound dog.  That’s equivalent to approx. three-fourths of a dark Ghirardelli chocolate bar or four and half Hershey chocolate bars.

How many ounces is in your heart shaped box of chocolates? Depends on the size of the box. Russell Stover’s boxes have a net weight range of 1.7oz to 42oz.  Needless to say, you don’t want your dog eating any of it.

If you know your dog ate chocolate, don’t wait to do the math and call your veterinarian immediately.

On the other hand, if your dog snagged a few chocolates on the sly, you’ll want to look for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or hyperactivity.  For larger consumption, you will notice an increase in your dog’s heart rate, muscle twitching, excessive panting, restlessness, and increased urination. If not treated immediately, it can lead to hyperthermia, muscle tremors, seizures, coma and death.

 

Prevention is the Best Strategy

Store chocolate in a top-level cabinet or the refrigerator where it is not assessible by your dog.  Dogs are sneaky, smart, and they love chocolate, so choose a good hiding place.

Never leave chocolate out on counters or coffee tables.  If you want to leave chocolates out for guests, secure your dog in another room or leave them with a friend for the night.

Have a heart shaped box at home that you are dying to dig into?  Secure your dog in another room while enjoying your treats. Dogs really do love the smell and taste of chocolate, and tempting them by eating it in front of them will make them want to find it later.

Doggy Safe Valentine Recipes

So how do you show some love to Fido and make him happy on this special occasion? Feeling bad that you can’t share your valentine treats? You can make your own by substituting carob for chocolate.  Here are two recipes that you and your dog will enjoy!

Peanut Butter & “Chocolate” Truffles

From the The Daily Puppy

Ingredients

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/3 cup whole wheat flour

¼ cup whey protein powder or 3 TBL dry powdered milk

¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract

2 cups carob chips

½ teaspoon vegetable shortening

In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of peanut butter and 1/3 cup of whole wheat flour. Once mixed, add 3 tablespoons of dry powdered milk OR ¼ cup whey protein powder and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Mix until dough forms.  If dough is too dense or dry, add 1 teaspoon of water in increments until texture is firm, but not sticky.

Grease cookie sheet. Form dough into ½ inch to 1-inch balls (depending on the size of your dog) and place on the cookie sheet.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of carob chips for 30 seconds on high. Stir and microwave in 10-second increments until fully melted. If needed, add ½ teaspoon of vegetable shortening for a smoother consistency.

Use toothpick and dip peanut butter balls into melted carob and return to cookie sheet to dry.

Makes 12-15 truffles. Store in a cool, dry place.

Mock Chocolate Carob-Walnut Bark

From All Things Dog Blog

Ingredients:

4 cups carob chips

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (dry roasted peanuts are good too)

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

Prepare an edged cookie sheet by lining it with recycled tin foil. Lightly spray with cooking spray.

Melt carob chips in a glass bowl in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Stir and repeat process. Stir in the peanut butter and microwave for another 15 seconds. Stir to combine. Add the nuts and cinnamon, stirring these in until evenly distributed.

Pour this mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet, spreading evenly. Chill for 15 minutes in a freezer or 30 minutes in your refrigerator.

When ready, break up the bark into 1 to 2 inch pieces. Store bark in a sealed container in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Recipe makes about 70 one to two-inch pieces of deliciousness that you can delight your party guests and their dogs with.

The above delicious yet safe Valentine’s Day recipes for dogs and important tips and advice are from Andrea Servadio, Co-Founder of Fitdog Sports Club in Santa Monica, Calif.

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Filed under all you need is a dog, animals, chocolate, dog health, dogs, love, Valentine's Day

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July 1, 2013 · 6:05 pm

Fourth of July bucket list

Chocolate and pet friendly meals to Put on your bucket list

Some of the yummiest meals and specific foods I’ve ever eaten that you might want to devour over the Fourth of July this year or next r another time… and some of the places are even pet friendly… if I do not indicate a specific dish, it means ALL of the food is good, so try whatever appeals to you, it is all good, heave ho.

A vegan meal at Ravens, Stanford Inn, Mendocino, CA

A meal at The Farmhouse, Sonoma, CA

http://fathomaway.com/postcards/chill/farmhouse-inn-sonoma-california/

Eggs MacBenedict, Chocolate Extravagance, MacCallum House, Mendocino, CA

Apple pancakes, Strawberry Creek Inn, Idyllwild, CA

Ole’s Swedish Hot cakes, Little River Inn, Little River, CA

Greek pasta, chicken caesar salad, Dametra cafe, Carmel, CA

Chocolate Cocoa Lounge (Feb. 14), The Island hotel, Newport Beach, CA

chocolate-for-breakfast-cover

Chocolate for Breakfast, Oak Knoll Inn, Napa, CA

Hot chocolate, Silly Rabbit Chocolate, Ashland OR

Robin’s restaurant, Cambria, CA

Chocolate cake, Gnome, Idyllwild, CA

Fish n chips, The Boathouse, Bodega Bay, CA

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Calamari, Abalonetti Seafood, Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CAfis

Calamari, fish n chips, Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant, Morro Bay, CA

Authentic Pad Thai from Thailand

NY pizza, pretzel, knish (street food)

German pretzel, spaetzle at Englischer Gartens in Munich, and a meal at the Kunstlerhaus

Masala dosa, southern India and meals

Gyro or a Souvlaki and shake at the Mad Greek diner, Baker, CA

Turkey Fat burgers or original with eggs and fries, Los Angeles

Chinese meal from NY or SF Chinatown

Pick your own fruit at Gilcrease Orchards, Las Vegas, NV

fish n chips and stuffed potatoes, London and the midlands

Patty melt, and doggie menu, Park bench cafe, Huntington Beach, CA

Mama’s Fish House, Maui, HI

French toast, Roughley Manor, 29 Palms, CA

world”s largest chocolate fountain, Jean Philippe’s chocolates, Bellagio, las vegas, nv

Omelette, Bagel sandwich, Bagel Cafe, Summerlin, Las Vegas, NV

Chicken and Rice, Mi Casa Too, Carson City, NV

Raw vegan food, Living Light Cafe, Fort Bragg, CA

Breakfast buffet, Top of the Riverfront, Millennium Hotel, St. Louis, MO

BBQ chicken, St. Louis, MO and Kansas City, MO

Turkey burger and fries, Sequoia Drive-in, Sebastopol, CA

other views:

http://www.nerdtravel.com/2013/west-coast-road-trips/#.UdG7z57BkKE.twitter

http://www.businessinsider.com/memorable-meals-to-eat-in-your-lifetime-2013-6

4th-of-july-flag-lasagna-recipe

http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/962095/fourth-of-july-flag-lasagna-recipe?sk_ref=poptoday

 

and some yummy pet menus at various hotels

http://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-dog-owners-hotels-20130705,0,5336075.story

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Filed under Adventure, B&B's, Bay area, Bodega Bay, California, Carmel, chocolate, chocolate goodies, chocolate travel, dark chocolate, dog friendly, dog travel, dogs, eco friendly/green, family friendly, food, four paws up, Idyllwild, K9 travel, Las Vegas, luxury travel, Mendocino, Monterey, Nevada, Oregon, pet friendly dining, pet friendly lodging, San Francisco, travel with dog, Uncategorized, wine country

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February 13, 2013 · 8:52 pm

Free Fun Ideas for V-day

The average person will spend over $130 on Valentine’s Day this year, according to a report from the National Retail Federation. This amounts to a pretty pricey mid-February evening for those of short on cash.

Happily, there are lots of free things to do this Valentine’s Day that will leave you wondering why you ever paid a premium for fun. Check out the following ideas and be sure to hit up MrFreeStuff.com for a complete list of 60 dates that don’t cost a thing.

Note: And most of these can include your pets, if you choose to bring them along and have them join in on the fun. Or if you are alone with them and want to invite single friends over. All sorts of possibilities.  You can make it a Galentine’s Day or Palentine’s Day or whatever you want !  You could even fundraise with your dog’s kisses for your favorite animal rescue. Smooches from Pooches.

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http://www.buzzfeed.com/marcelle/37-dogs-beating-you-at-valentines-day

1. Create a Game Night
Host a game night this Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s a mellow game of Scrabble or a high-intensity round of Texas Hold ‘Em, you’ll enjoy a little friendly competition with your date.  Tug of war, throw the frisbee, ball or chew the stuffed animal works for Fido.

2. Head to the Playground
Skip the pricey restaurant. Have a picnic at home or at the park with lunch meats, cheese, potato salad, French bread and wine. At the playground enjoy some kid-like fun. Compete on the swingset or see who can hold out the longest on the merry-go-round. Chase the dog or have the dog chase you.  Climb the monkey bars.

3. Volunteer Together
Valentine’s Day seems to be all about what you’re doing for your special someone. Why not collaborate and do something for others instead? Soup kitchens, animal shelters and nursery homes could use a few good volunteers, so spend your Feb. 14 brightening someone else’s day.

4. Make S’Mores
Forget chocolate-covered strawberries; s’mores are where it’s at this Valentine’s Day! Roast marshmallows over your kitchen stove, expertly melt chocolate and create a multi-layered, gooey treat. Camp out at home, back yard and toast the marshmallows and chocolate over the fire.

5. Bring the Spa Home
Spas and salons will be brimming with lovey-dovey couples this Valentine’s Day, but you can skip the crowds and create a better experience at home. Gather your candles, towels and favorite CDs and prepare a steamy bath. Complete the experience with a couples massage.

6. Get Touristy
Despite how long you’ve lived in your current city, there are likely several hidden gems you haven’t yet experienced. Stop by the local visitor’s center with your date and inquire about free things to do in your community, then hit the road toward discovery.

7. Host a Movie Night
Host a movie night and ask friends to bring their favorite snack to share. Peruse your DVD collection for a funny or thought-provoking flick and leave the tear-jerkers for just the two of you.

8. Relive Storytime
Open a bottle of wine or pop the top on your favorite brew and settle in for an evening of storytelling. Share passages from your favorite books or pick up your favorite childhood classics from the local library. Once upon a time…

9. Cook Dinner Together
Cooking a meal for your loved one has long been a Valentine’s Day tradition, but why not prepare something together? Challenge each other to create a tasty meal out of items you already have in your pantry and toast to your resourcefulness.

10. Host a Wine Tasting
Tasting flights will cost you a pretty penny at fancy restaurants, but you can bring the experience home for less. Ask friends to bring a bottle of wine and their favorite snack pairing and enjoy an intellectual discussion about tannins and undercurrents.

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Filed under camping, chocolate, creativity, dog kisses, dog movies, dog movies/TV, dog spa, dog toys, dog treats, dogs, economy, family friendly, four paws up, free, fundraising, funny, gift giving, gifts for your dog, K9 approved, keep pets safe, romance, stuffed animals, travel with dog, true love, tug of war, Uncategorized, Valentine's Day

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February 6, 2013 · 5:03 pm

V-day gifts for pet parents

Every parent loves to show off photos/pictures of their sweet angels including pet parents. You can hire a photographer, painter or artist to create a custom image and present this gift to the pet parent of your choice.  You may have to be sneaky about it but that is part of the fun, right.  You can also put a photo of your loved one’s pet on a t-shirt, mug or other item.

http://positively.com/2013/02/06/photography-matters/

Recently, Cici and I met with Deanna Fuller who took photos of us at the park. Below are just a few of the shots. I think she did a great job, what do you think?  If you live in the Monterey Bay area and need a photographer, email me and I’ll put you in touch.

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And if you want your loved one to have more than just one keepsake, how about giving them a video camera that they can take videos of their pride and joy and show off regularly?

With the Sony HD video camera, they could capture a day-in-the-life of their pet … Sony’s Action Cam ($269.99) is a great way to capture that footage in high-quality and play back to the family in real-time with its WiFi capability.

find out what their pet’s habits are when no one is home.

At $199.99 http://store.sony.com/p/Action-Cam,-Compact,-Rugged,-HD-video,-action-camcorder,-Go-Pro,-Skateboarding,-Cycling,-Hiking,-AS10/en/p/HDRAS10/B can reveal really fun information about beloved pets. It’s a wearable full HD video camcorder that’s a mere 3.2 ounces and boasts SteadyShot image stabilization to always ensure smooth video, which is perfect for any sort of mischief your pet might get into in. The Action Cam also captures a stunning 170-degree viewing angle so you can see way beyond your pets peripheral to really see what they can!

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So far, we’ve left out the traditional hearts, flowers and chocolates, but here goes… you can get your sweetie a bunch of chocolate in the shape of a dog… yummy and delicious…

http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/valentines-day-dog-shaped-chocolates

Here are some yummy sugar-free and/or wheat-free cupcakes, and perhaps you can make them in the shape of a dog or a cat…

http://partycupcakeideas.com/25-sugar-free-cupcakes/

Fill a jar of dog goodies and donate animal / dog / cat treats (bones, cookies, biscuits in the shape of a heart) to your loved one’s favorite animal rescue group or shelter.

Make a five minute doggie valentine…toooo cute…

5minvalentine_body

http://www.moderndogmagazine.com/articles/diy-craft-5-minute-valentine/32875

Adopt or foster a dog or cat from the local shelter or rescue group, only if you will love them forever.

Make a coupon book for your loved one and have items such as l hour pet sitting, dog grooming, or other items that are pet friendly as well as massage, poem writing and romantic items. Have fun with it and be creative.

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Filed under animal rescue, cats, chocolate, dog treats, gift giving, holiday gifts, K9 approved, pet adoption, pet care, pet sitting, pet travel, puppy love, Uncategorized, Valentine's Day

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February 5, 2013 · 3:16 pm

Valentine’s Day: romance is in the air

Top 10 Romantic Cities

thanks to our friend Tawna Fenske for sharing this list on Facebook…

many of these cities are also pet friendly… the top three are…

1. Scottsdale, AZ

2. Napa, CA

3. Bend, OR

http://livability.com/top-10/top-10-romantic-cities/bend/or

4. Charlottesville, Va

5. Santa Fe, NM

6. Kansas City, MO

7. Savannah, GA

8. Cambridge, MA

9. Coral Gables, FL

10. Hot Springs, AR

Take a look at BedandBreakfast.com’s list of Top 10 Dog-Friendly B&Bs

http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/toplists/top10pet-friendly

These bed and breakfasts and inns across the U.S. really go above and

beyond to accommodate dogs (all year round) so both owners and pets can

enjoy traveling together.

The only inn on this list and blog post that Cici and I have personally visited is in Carmel, CA… The Cypress Inn (and Carmel itself) is truly dog friendly not just dog tolerant as many hotels are. Please let us know if you have great experiences at any of these hotels or inns. Thank you.

The Cypress Inn is owned by Doris Day, an animal activist, and Dennis LeVett. Dogs and cats are welcome here, and the historic inn has just blocks from Carmel’s pet-friendly beach. The inn’s courtyard has doggie pick-up bags and an area to wash your dog off after playing on the beach. Because the owners feel that pets are a part of the family, well-behaved pets are allowed throughout the inn and can join their humans in the courtyard for breakfast and evening appetizers. Cypress Inn even has occasional dog-related events, such as Poodle Day.

cypress

A few venues that offer True Love Packages… whether it’s for Romance or Special Time for you and your Best Friend… 

One of our favorite places is Mendocino, CA and there are many wonderful pet friendly places to stay. One of many outstanding pet friendly hotels is the MacCallum House…beautiful rooms, walking distance to the beach and shops, botanical gardens, and much more. It’s a whale of a time to visit there with whale watching galore and great prices.

machouse_pet

http://www.maccallumhouse.com/pages/pets.html

Free guide

http://celiasue.com/free-guide-to-pet-friendly-cities/

The Oregon Garden Resort

Located in the quaint town of Silverton, Oregon, the Oregon Garden & Oregon Garden Resort  would make for a unique and memorable fido-friendly Valentine’s Day. Constructed in 2008, The Oregon Garden Resort is an upscale boutique resort that sits on 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and connected to the Oregon Gardens, a unique 80-acre botanical garden featuring 20 specialty gardens. The Resort features a main lodge that consists of a restaurant, lounge, day spa and 17 guest cottages housing 6 rooms each – each one equipped with a fireplace and private deck. Not only is the resort very pet-friendly, but pets are even allowed to have dinner with guests in the outdoor seating areas (one of which is covered). What’s more, overnight stays include passes to explore the Oregon Garden, which is an 80-acre botanical garden where pets are also very welcome! The Garden even boasts a special “pet garden,” which educates visitors as to which plants are friendly to pets.

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Phoenix Inn Suites -Salem, OR

Hiking & Pet Package

Rate starts at $119 and includes 2 water bottles, energy bars, a Phoenix Inn knapsack, as well as maps to local hiking/dog trails. Pet fee is also included. Package is offered year-round. Link for more info: http://www.phoenixinn.com/salem-south/specials-and-packages/

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This Valentine’s Day, take the romantic escape you’ve been waiting for with

that special someone and journey to the heart of the Adirondacks (New York) for

a weekend of romance in the mountains at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort

in Lake Placid  and be sure to bring Fido!

Located on the shores of Mirror Lake on Main Street in Lake Placid, the

Golden Arrow’s picturesque location makes for the quintessential romantic

getaway, one that’s pet-friendly with a jaw-dropping view. During your stay, ski, snowshoe, or hike the sparkling, snow-covered Adirondack wilderness (a virtually limitless playground where Fido can

enjoy the great outdoors), take a leisurely stroll together down Lake Placid’s quaint Main Street (try a stop at Jake Placid Doghouse  to please the pooch, too!), and enjoy a romantic dinner for two at Generations restaurant and end the day curled up by the fire with that special someone and your furry companion by your side.

At the Golden Arrow, currently offering an exclusive Valentine’s Day Getaway Deal. Stay February 14, 15, and 16 in any of the Golden Arrow’s pet-friendly accommodations and receive the Resort’s Romance Package which includes a bottle of wine, two commemorative wine glasses, a wine tasting for two, a complimentary dogsled ride on frozen Mirror Lake, and more.

Pets incur a $50 per pet, per week fee

·         No weight or size limitations

·         Pets are restricted to Deluxe Rooms located on the 3rd floor of the hotel to ensure they do not come in contact with other guests who have pet allergies

·         A $100 per pet security deposit required upon arrival – fully refundable upon time of departure barring any unintentional property damages

·         10% of each pet fee is donated annually to the local  pet charity chosen by one of the Golden Arrow’s favorite guests who traveled with their pet that year.

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pet-friendly

Provenance Hotels Tempt with Nontraditional Valentine Getaways

Hotel packages in Nashville, Seattle and Portland celebrate love of all kinds.

Love is a many-splendored thing and Provenance Hotels, with five award-winning, art-filled boutique hotels in three of the nation’s most exciting destinations, is inviting travelers to celebrate love in all its forms with Valentine’s getaways for retro-lovers, pet-fanciers, modern gentlemen, gals on the town and chocoholics. With vintage-inspired va-va-voom at Seattle, Wash.’s Hotel Max; a girls night out in Music City with Hotel Preston in Nashville, Tenn.; and in Portland, Ore., a stylish getaway for the well-groomed guy at chic Hotel Lucia; a cuddly escape with man’s best friend at Hotel deLuxe; and an artisanal twist on a Cupid classic, chocolate, at The Governor Hotel, these packages offer inventive escapes sure to make hearts go pitter-patter on Valentine’s Day.

Once-per stay pet fee of $45

Boudoir and burlesque fantasies come to life with the sassy, sultry Risqué Business package at Seattle’s sexiest boutique hotel, Hotel Max. Priced from $439 per night, plus tax, it includes overnight accommodations, complimentary valet parking, a bottle of bubbly, box of locally-made OH! Chocolates, private in-room couples’ photo session with one of the city’s top professional boudoir photographers, a keepsake photo disc featuring the pin-up-worthy photos, roundtrip town car service to The Triple Door theater, two tickets for a live performance of The Atomic Bombshells: J’Adore! A Burlesque Valentine, and late 2 p.m. check out the next day. The package requires seven days advance booking and can be reserved online at http://www.hotelmaxseattle.com/risque or by calling 866-986-8087.

Hotel Preston, a hip boutique hotel conveniently located near Nashville Airport, is offering single ladies the chance to grab their best girls and celebrate Valentine’s Day with a package that is pure Music City- a little indulgent and whole lot of fun. The No Valentine? No Problem! package includes overnight accommodations in a spacious suite, a bottle of bubbly to get the party started; round trip transportation to and from downtown Nashville’s hottest nightlife neighborhood, Broadway and Second Avenue; a ‘midnight snack’ selection of Nashville’s own Christie’s Cookies; and, in the morning, a gift certificate to Music City’s famed Loveless Café so they can start the morning right with an authentic Southern breakfast. Priced from $269 per night, plus tax, the package requires 48 hours advance booking can be reserved at http://www.hotelpreston.com/noproblem or by calling 866-986-8089.

Dating a modern day Don Draper or 007? At chic Hotel Lucia, in the heart of downtown Portland, stylish gals (and guys) are invited to treat the gentleman in their life to a slice of the good life with the Stand By Your Man package priced from $289 per night, plus tax. It features overnight accommodations; Portland-distilled whiskey and all the accoutrements’ for mixing up the perfect in-room Manhattans; a certificate for a haircut and shave at nearby Y-Chrome; and, because his car is his baby, Hotel Lucia will send it out for professional detailing while guests are mixing it up in the room. The package requires 72 hours advance booking and can be reserved at http://www.hotellucia.com/yourman or by calling 866-986-8086.

Glamorous boutique Hotel deLuxe, also located in downtown Portland, is catering to four-legged Valentines and the people who love them with the Puppy Love package. It includes overnight accommodations in a pet-friendly room; Provenance Hotels’ signature pet welcome amenity with a bed and bowls to borrow, a pet snack and Provenance Hotels’ pet menu; a keepsake heart-shape dog tag engraved with Fluffy or Fido’s name; vet-approved dog cupcakes; and cupcakes for people from a Portland favorite, St. Cupcake bakery. Package rates start at $219 per night, plus tax, require five days advance booking and can be reserved at http://www.hoteldeluxe.com/puppyloveor by calling 866-986-8085.

The historic Governor Hotel is giving that time-honored Valentine’s tradition, chocolate, an only-in-Portland twist with the Artisan Chocolate Experience package. It includes luxurious overnight accommodations; a generous welcome amenity featuring a sampling of the city’s best locally-made chocolate; and a private, guided walking tour of Portland artisan chocolatiers with Portland Walking Tours during which travelers will sample and indulge in the diversity of chocolate from beans to bars – plus whipped, truffles, cocktails, melted, for sipping, and more. The package requires 48 hours advance notice, is priced from $329, plus tax, and can be booked at http://www.goverhorhotel.com/chocolate or by calling 888-246-5631.

Provenance Hotels Valentine packages are available for stays checking in February 14-16, 2013 at Hotel Max, February 1-18, 2013 at Hotel Preston and Feb. 14-17, 2013 at Hotel Lucia, Hotel deLuxe and the Governor Hotel.

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Valentines & Un-Valentines Packages

Working with About.com’s Dating Expert, put together the ultimate foodie’s “Breaking-Up Package.” Spend some time in the California Wine Country to get far away from your ex, and then move on. The Package includes: the full Chocolate Covered February works (chocolate mimics the feeling in the body that we get when falling in love via phenylethylamine), two nights in a Queen Room, a vitamin B packed full breakfast (B vitamins are major players in the happiness mood-food connection), evening wine and cheese tasting, a self-improvement break-up recovery book, a pint of chocolate walnut organic ice cream (as excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts offer up the kind of nourishment brain cells need to keep depression at bay and neurotransmitters firing) and a voodoo doll with pins to write his/her name on. Also included in the package is your choice of: a one-hour exercise classes each day or a one-hour massage and a special self-guided wine tasting tour.  Guaranteed to put you on the road to break-up recovery.  $550.00 for two nights – more than $100 savings

Enjoy a chocolate adventure in romance at a great price from Thursday, February 14th to Sunday, February 16th.  Getaway includes: chocolate afternoon treats, evening chocolate port, gourmet chocolates, a chocolate treat included on the breakfast menu, a chocolate and wine pairing adventure, self-guided chocolate shop tour, a romantic dinner for two on Feb. 14, chocolate soap, a gift each night including a bottle of wine and three nights in a King room with fireplace and two-person whirlpool tub. King room – $999 including taxes – Savings of more than $150.

Camellia Inn’s Chocolate Covered Wednesdays: Yes, what’s better than chocolate with red wine! Chocolate soap, chocolate for breakfast, chocolate port and chocolate goodies when you arrive, that’s what’s better than just chocolate and red wine

No. 1 Best Rates of the Year and It’s not just wine: Of course the Sonoma Wine Country is synonymous with wine, but there’s so much more…and much of it you already know about – the great food, the rolling hills, the hospitality, but did you know there’s glassblowing, botanical gardens, ziplining, soap and what’s wine without cheese?

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Filed under B&B's, California, Carmel, chocolate, chocolate travel, dog friendly, dog travel, dogs, girlfriend getaways, K9 travel, keep pets safe, luxury travel, Mendocino, Oregon, pet friendly lodging, pet friendly winery, pet travel, travel with dog, Uncategorized, Washington, wine country, women with dogs

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October 22, 2012 · 2:11 pm

Tips for Howloween

With Halloween just around the corner, I’d like to give you a few reminders or suggestions on how to help your animal family through the festivities.  This can be a stressful time for many animals and there are ways to mitigate that. I’ve also included some photos just for fun.

1.  If your animal is stressed or scared by strange noises or unusual looking people, be sure to keep them securely locked in a quiet room in your house on Halloween. All those loud kids in scary costumes can be really upsetting.  This will also ensure that your cat or dog doesn’t bolt out the door when the trick or treaters show up.  A nice room with some calming music would be a perfect place for the evening.

2. You can also start giving them some Rescue Remedy (just three drops) in the water dish each day, for a few days before the 31st.  That will help to release any stress or anxiety and keep them calmer.

3. Don’t forget that dogs are allergic to chocolate, so if you have a big bowl of candy at the door waiting for the trick or treaters, be sure that your pup doesn’t help himself.  The same is true for bags of goodies your kids bring home from their rounds.  It’s really easy for dogs to get into the chocolate right now and that could be a bad situation. Xylitol, a sugar free sweetener, is very poisonous to dogs and some other small mammals, and is found in many candies and baked good. Signs of chocolate toxicity include tremors, nervousness, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate and sometimes seizures and death. If you suspect that your dog has eaten something toxic and he exhibits any of these symptoms, call your vet right away.

4. The ingredients in candy are not the only problem.  Many dogs will eat the wrappers and sticks and this can cause an intestinal blockage.  So keep the candy far, far away.

5. Don’t leave lighted candles or jack-o-lanterns where the animals can get to them. Cats and dogs may stick their nose over the flame to investigate, or they can tip them over.

6.  Some animals love to “dress up” and others hate it. Don’t make your animal friend wear a costume unless they really love it. Never leave an animal in a costume alone – they can chew it up and ingest it, get it caught on something or hurt themselves trying to get out of it.

7. Halloween is a great time to drop by your local shelter with some treats for the cats and dogs waiting for a home. It’s even better if you can come in costume and brighten the staff’s day.

Halloween can be a fun time for people and animals and with a little planning, everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time.

Note:   I would add that if you have a black cat, make sure that you keep it indoors. Pranksters have been known to harm black cats during this holiday so keep your kitties safe.

10 more tips from Victoria Stilwell

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Filed under cats, chocolate, chocolate goodies, dogs, halloween for dogs, holiday tips, keep pets safe, Uncategorized

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June 25, 2012 · 10:44 am

June paw pals

Hooray for Paw Pals…like pen pals for dogs…

a fun way to meet other dog owners and for your dogs, it’s a real win win situation… the way that it works is that Doggy Dessert Chef will send you the name of your pawpal for the month, you email them and ask what they like and send them a package of goodies on the 10th of the month. Another person sends you a goodie package. And the paw pals change every month. You send and receive goodie packages filled with gifts of toys, treats, a card and something for you. Then on the 25th of the month, you write about it on your blog, if you have one, like this. Pretty nifty, huh.

http://doggydessertchef.com/pawpals/

This month we received a yummy bone and Dogswell duck treats for Cici and habanero chocolate for me… hot stuff !!!  (I was asked for something specific to Arizona and I said chocolate covered cactus or something chocolate and hot)… I am going to make some kind of mole’ sauce out of this, but I tasted it, spread it on a roll and it is yummylicious. Not too hot (spicy) but with just enough kick. I had heard about Mexican chocolate dishes using mole’ sauce which I have never had but ole’ now I will have to experiment with mole’.  Ole’!

Now, do you think Cici enjoyed her bone?  Fiesta, baby !

Onto the Dogswell duck jerky…(made from cage free quack quacks)…

http://www.dogswell.com/vitality/duck_breast_jerky

Thanks Paw pals !!!

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Filed under bones, chocolate, chocolate goodies, dog friendly, dog treats, dogs, paw pals, Uncategorized

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October 19, 2011 · 2:06 pm

A green Halloween for dogs

Dr. Al Townshend, staff veterinarian for Old Mother Hubbard, developed the tips below.

Old Mother Hubbard all natural treats at www.oldmotherhubbard.com and  at www.facebook.com/OMHpetsnacks

Tips to keep your pet safe and happy this Halloween:
  • Using flameless candles in pumpkins helps to avoid potentially harmful accidents.
  • Make sure to keep all candy out of reach of a curious nose and have plenty of high-quality, natural treats, such as Old Mother Hubbard® Soft & Chewy Bitz® for dogs, on hand for your furry friend.
  • Doorbell anxiety is common among dogs and can lead to barking and aggression which can ruin the night for you, your dog and any trick-or-treaters that come to the door.  You can help your dog get used to the sound of the doorbell by doing some “practice runs” a few days before Halloween.  Have someone stand outside and ring the doorbell, and if your dog barks, calm him or her in a soothing voice and consider offering a small treat as a reward. Repeat this exercise until your furry friend realizes the doorbell is a good thing, not something to be scared of.
  • If you plan on dressing up your pet, make sure the costume does not interfere with his or her vision, hearing, breathing or walking. Costumes should be lightweight and not too tight.  Also, loose or dangling accessories or details can present a choking hazard for your pet. Make sure to snip loose threads, beads or other hanging items before dressing your pet.
  • If you are going outside (for a parade or trick-or-treating) make sure your pet is on a leash at all times.
  • Although it may not match their costume, make sure your pet is wearing an ID or has a microchip.  With the door opening and closing all evening, curious pets may try to sneak outside and join the festivities. Reflective leashes, collars or stickers on their costumes are also a great way to help keep pets safe.
A few additional tips:

Leaving your dog outside unattended is a no no and keep your black cats inside, too.  No matter how safe you think your neighborhood is, Halloween pranksters and vandals roam the streets looking for trouble and sometimes get carried away, so don’t take any chances and keep your pets inside with you where you know they are safe.

Chocolate is not the only sweet treat that poses a risk for dogs. Sugar-free candy contains a chemical called Xylitol that can make dogs severely ill even in small doses. Candy foil and wrappers can also be very harmful, as they can cause choking or a blockage in a dog’s digestive tract. If you have kids, let them know that the dog cannot share their Halloween treats.

Halloween decorations should be kept out of your dog’s reach. Dogs love shiny, small, noisy and/or  other items that can cause serious health problems. And lights and cords can be bad news for your curious dog. A wagging tail can knock stuff made of glass over (including glass jars of treats). Keep sweet treats up high and out of reach.

Strangers in spooky masks and costumes can be very scary for your dog and  cause unnecessary stress and fear. It’s probably best to keep your dog in a separate room. Try leaving a radio or TV or CD player on to drown out the sound of the visitors.

No beer, wine or other alcoholic drinks for Fido.  Do not give any amount of alcohol to any animal. A drunk dog is no laughing matter. Alcohol is poison to dogs and can cause : vomiting, disorientation, seizures, irregular heartbeat, heart attack and death. If you have a party make sure you clean up all of the leftover drinks, as some dogs are attracted to the sweetness of beer and wine.

If you are taking your dog to a Howloween party or event, make sure that they’ve got their good manners in paw. Introduce dogs slowly and carefully to one another to avoid conflict. And do not feed dogs treats together but separately to avoid any resource guarding behaviors.

Now, go look at these hysterically funny dogs in costumes, 25 of them, very creative…what is your dog going to be this year? you could also crochet an outfit with black and orange yarn and a few other items, how about a pirate dog, polka dot princess/diva, bumble bee and/or green ghost?  Recycle, reuse, repurpose items and/or use eco friendly green materials.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/25-really-creative-dog-costumes

 

 

Cool crochet costumes:

FaveCrafts.com

Hot Dog Crochet Coat: 


http://www.favecrafts.com/Pet-Crochet-Patterns/Hot-Dog-Crochet-Coat


Dog Witch Costume: 


http://www.favecrafts.com/Halloween-Crafts/Dog-Witch-Costume-Crochet-Pattern-from-Red-Heart


Punk Your Pup: 


http://www.favecrafts.com/Tie-Dye/Punk-Your-Pup-from-ilovetocreate


Skull Dog Coat: 


http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet/Skull-Dog-Coat-Crochet-Pattern-from-Caron-Yarn


Dog’s Cupid Arrow Carrier: 


http://www.favecrafts.com/Valentines-Day/Dogs-Cupid-Arrow-Carrier


Puppy Necktie: 

http://www.favecrafts.com/Pet-Crafts/Puppy-Necktie

 

 

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Filed under cats, chocolate, dog treats, green, halloween for dogs, K9 approved, keep pets safe, organic, Uncategorized

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April 18, 2011 · 12:37 pm

jennie uh-oh

you may have noticed that I do NOT appreciate being deceived by people or companies that do NOT have my or your best interest at heart.

Which is why it makes me really sick to my stomach and angry this morning to find out that Jennie-O is actually Hormel.  And Morningstar Farms is actually Kellogg’s. I know about the Morningstar fiasco because Trader Joe’s STILL sells their products. I USED to eat their corn dogs thinking it was an all natural product. Intuitively, I kept getting NOT to eat them but I was addicted at the time. Until they made me really ill. That is when I did a little research and found out, voila, the culprit was Kellogg’s contaminated GMO/GE corn.

The reason that these companies make up these oh so nice sounding all natural sounding names is because WE DON’T WANT TO BUY THEIR PRODUCTS and so they cleverly DECEIVE us into buying their products.  THIS IS FRAUD.

And sometimes the companies started out being all natural but became successful and SOLD OUT… ugh. Burt’s Bees, for instance was bought out by Clorox.

Alexa Traffic Rank for http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/business/06bees.html: 84www.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/business/06bees.html

Can Burt’s Bees Turn Clorox Green?

“Clorox was willing to pay almost $1 billion for Burt’s Bees because big companies see big opportunities in the market for green products. From 2000 to 2007, Burt’s Bees’ annual revenue soared to $164 million from $23 million. Analysts say there is far more growth to be had by it and its competitors as consumers keep gravitating toward products that promise organic and environmental benefits.

In the last couple of years, L’Oréal paid $1.4 billion for the Body Shop and Colgate-Palmolive bought 84 percent of Tom’s of Maine, which makes natural toothpaste and deodorant, for $100 million. Clorox is also creating eco-friendly product lines of its own.

Many corporate leaders have sold their shareholders on green initiatives by pointing out that they help cut costs — an argument that is more persuasive now, while energy costs are sky high. But as companies rush to put out more and more “natural,” “organic” or “green” products, consumers and advocacy groups are increasingly questioning the meaning of these labels.”

It is the same thing with supermarket brand, Walmart, K-mart, Target type pet foods, by the way, people.

Not only is Jennie-uh oh Hormel but they have now recalled 55 THOUSAND pounds of turkey burgers. And I just bought some at Safeway. The turkey burgers are suspected of having Salmonella and are supposedly only tainted ones are from Sam’s Club. You believe that, I got a bridge to sell you.

http://brownfieldagnews.com/2011/04/04/hormel-recalls-jennie-o-turkey-burgers/

At least Foster Farms is still a real farm.

http://fosterfarms.com/faq/raise.asp

“Our chickens and turkeys mature naturally without growth hormones or steroids.”

Still, the ONLY relatively safe way to know what you are eating is by growing your own fruits and veggies organically and I guess slaughtering your own meat (UGH) or buying grass-fed meat from reputable companies. NOT Hormel. NOT Hormel disguised as Jennie-uh-oh.

Happy Passover/Easter… better make it a vegan seder?  My roommate rooked me into making him a real home cooked meal tonight… not vegan. Chicken from Foster Farms, matzo ball soup, potato latkes or kugel, gefilte fish with horseradish and more (mostly from jars) but he’ll never know the difference between from scratch and jars. He lives on cereal and milk and fast food (and wonders why he’s sick all the time, duh)… did NOT get any wine and there will be no apples and honey and ritual/ceremony, no Hebrew since I don’t know any, no waiting for Elijah or having an empty chair at the table, but I digress.

Here is a vegan recipe suggested by Lisa Spector, Through a Dog’s Ear.

http://kosherfood.about.com/od/passovervegetarianmains/r/cutlet_eggplant.htm

well, I would scratch the sugar and use an all natural substitute like agave or stevia OR NO sugar period.  Why one needs sugar in a recipe for eggplant cutlets is beyond me. Substitute the wheat bread crumbs for a gluten free mixture of Bob’s Red Mill flax seed meal and rice flour, I made zucchini sticks a few weeks ago with this and they were yummy. My now go-to bread crumbs substitute.

Be sure that you DO NOT give your dogs too much flax seed meal nor matzo, potato kugel or any other holiday favorite MADE FOR HUMANS. chocolate matzo for dessert for the humans, anyone?

The flax seed meal will take care of the matzo dilemma as Shankman so aptly put it this morning.

“Did you know that Matzoh, with what it does to your stomach after eating it for eight days, is the real reason for the phrase “Let my people go?” It’s true.”

L’chaim or whatever you are supposed to say for Happy Passover.

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Filed under chocolate, Easter, farm animals, food, green, healthy dog food, homemade dog food, keep pets safe, music for dogs, Passover seder vegan, turkey, Uncategorized

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February 8, 2011 · 4:18 pm

Most Romantic Inns in California

http://www.bootsnall.com/articles/11-02/25-of-the-most-romantic-bed-and-breakfasts-in-the-us.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

we don’t know about those inns above but what we do know about is the most romantic AND pet friendly AND eco friendly inns in California.  Fabulous gourmet food AND the Best chocolate yummies, too. So here’s our list of those.

Not an inn but a fantastic venue:

1. Island Hotel in Newport Beach IslandHotel.com (Kai Pua Ritual for Two at the Island Spa, exemplary service and romantic dinners in the Palm Terrace Restaurant and Lounge, where couples can woo one another with champagne and chocolate desserts in the unique Cocoa Lounge)

2. MacCallum House, Mendocino  maccallumhouse.com (hot tub under the stars, fabulous wedding venue and phenomenal food) American Historic Inns, Inc. (AHI), publisher of more than 2.7 million guidebooks and parent company to iLoveInns.com, an award-winning Website, named MacHouse #1 of their 2009 Top 10 Romantic Inns. iloveinns.com/2009Top10RomanticInns.htm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Bardessono’s in Yountville

4. Strawberry Creek Inn, Idyllwild strawberrycreekinn.com (mountain heaven, eco friendly wedding venue and not pet friendly, their Bunkhouse is though)

5. Oak Knoll Inn, Napa

Not pet friendly but go for the chocolate!

 

5.  Greenwood Pier Inn & Cafe, Elk greenwoodpierinn.com (spectacular views, lovely wedding venue and intimate setting)

7. Little River Inn, Little River littleriverinn.com (amazing ocean views on the patios for two, hot tub for two inside the room and fireplace plus relaxing spa treatments)

8. Blue Whale Inn, Cambria bluewhaleinn.com (honeymooners delight, across from the ocean, lots of amenities and delicious breakfast, cookies and chocolates, sweets for you and your sweetie)

9. Casa Cody, Inn, Palm Springs (beautifully decorated, intimate wedding venue and quiet accommodations in the heart of Palm Springs)

10.  Highland Ranch could be a fun place to enjoy relaxation and romance. If you stay at the ranch Friday night, you will receive 3 nights for the price of 2! Enjoy a menu of romantic meals fresh flowers and complimentary Scharffenberger chocolate and champagne. Go for a romantic horseback ride to a beautiful vista and then cozy up together next to the fireplace in your cabin. Dogs will enjoy the warmth of the fireplace, too. Plus, they offer one FREE massage per couple. Email: stay@highlandranch.com

Be sure to bring some of your own chocolate goodies to dip into for a deliciously intimate experience of your own making.

 

Crater Lake Company’s Chocolate Truffle Body Polish with the aroma of pure chocolate.  Made with organic and fair-trade cocoa and pure white cane sugar, this decadently divine body  scrub protects the skin from environmental factors that can age and ultimately dull the skin.   $22 at craterlakecompany.com.

 

 

DaBomb Yummy Soaps: Fraiche specializes in bath bomb swizzles and goat’s milk soaps, Rich Dark Chocolate soap is a special treat under $8.00. Three pak with rose, cherryliciious and rich dark Chocolate soaps. More info at: http://www.myfraiche.com 20% off by using coupon code fraiche20

 

Chocolate Dreamz Valentines Gift (the yummiest smelling) consists of 4 oz. Chocolate Dreamz Scrubz and matching scented 2 oz. Oilz by Scrubz.  Handmade in small batches.  Jars are recyclable, bags and scoops reusable.  Use only the finest food grade and organic oils in base. Scents are created using the highest standard essential and fragrance oils.  scrubzbodyscrub.com

 

And when you’re in the mood for a chocoholic snack:

Distinct Flavors to Make you Drool

Caramel Sprinkled With Grey Salt, Espresso, Cognac, Rose, Jasmine, Cinnamon/Cayenne, Shitake Mushroom, and more

http://gailambrosius.com/explore-flavors/

 

Chocolate Dufflets Crackle, Tumbles, and Morsels are created from entirely natural ingredients. The Crackle is a twist on the classic Florentine that encases toasted nuts within sheaths of layered Belgian dark chocolate. Visit www.duffletsweets.com

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Filed under chocolate, chocolate travel, dog travel, eco friendly/green, girlfriend getaways, Mendocino, Palm Springs, passion, pet friendly lodging, pet travel, romance, sexy, travel, Uncategorized, Valentine's Day, wine country

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