The Joy of Flower Power - Beautiful Dogs for Adoption with Sophie Gamand Photography

In celebration of National Dog Day, I wanted to share some extraordinary portraits of some extraordinary dogs by a very talented photographer. I first saw the #PitBullFlowerPower portraits by Sophie Gamand a few weeks ago and I fell in love with every single one of them. She has a real gift for  pet photography and a heart for helping pets in need. Sophie chose to do this series only of pit bull breed dogs because they often get a bad rap for no reason. The "pit bull" is actually any one of several breeds including Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, or any mix of those breeds. Sometimes even English Bulldog or Boston Terrier mix dogs are grouped in as pit bulls.
This is what Sophie Gamand says on her website about this project: ""Flower Power" is about challenging myself to approach pit bulls with a fresh perspective and an open heart. I invite the viewer to do the same." To me ALL dogs are beautiful, and these amazing portraits highlight just how beautiful they are! Some of these dogs have since been adopted, but most of them are still in need of a loving forever home. Please share this post with all your friends, on your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+ and other social media pages and let's find ALL of them a home this week!! Doesn't every single dog deserve a loving home?

Lovely Lucy is a 9 year young female pit bull/Labrador mix with the most infectious smile and beautiful amber eyes. Lucy is loyal, smart, sweet as can be and very affectionate.
Lucy was abandoned at a vet's office this past June unable to walk. She was taken in by Animal Haven rescue who got her the surgery she needed. Lucy is still healing and they are unsure if she'll be able to fully walk again, but she's still the sweetest girl around! Lucy would love nothing better than to spend her days bringing smiles and joy to her forever loving best friend or family.
For more information on how to adopt this beautiful flower they call lovely Lucy, visit Lucy's Animal Haven page.

This unique blue & brown eyed beauty is Cali, a beautiful two-and-a-half-year-old Pitbull Terrier mix. Cali is a very sweet pup who loves to play and give kisses. She is very obedient and loving, but she does require some leash training.
Mommy & I have found that positive leash training is a great way to bond, especially when you are a dog who wants to obey and please. So, I bet Cali and her new loving pet parent would pick it up in no time!
For more information on adopting this captivating sweet faced girl, visit Cali's Petango adoption page.

Dharma, the gorgeous geisha girl dog, is a 5 month old female pit/Whippet mix (yes, that's right) with the most beautiful golden green/ice blue eyes you've ever seen. She's just a baby, ready to start a new life with a loving forever family. Dharma is so sweet, long legged, delicate and aims to please. She will make someone a fantastic best friend! She will probably be on the smaller size too.
For more information and to put an application in to adopt this beautiful flower, visit Dharma's Animal Haven adoption page.
Thank you Sophie Gamand, for doing this beautiful flower series for all these pit bull pups. Thank you for believing in them and helping others to see the beauty they've always had! To see many more pit bull flowering beauties up for adoption, please visit Sophie's special #PitBullFlowerPower page.
This is a "Tuesday's Tails" blog hop, where homeless pets are featured to help them find homes. It's sponsored by our friends at Dogz & Paws. To see other pets up for adoption who need loving homes, visit some of the other blog links below.

The Joy of Wash Day...but are the Toys Happy?

Wash Day. 
Mine and my sisters' toys had that "not so fresh" feeling to them, so I put them in my "Pixenator 5000 Super Ultra Toy Cleaning Machine" to ensure they came out smelling and looking newer than the day they came home to live with us.

Some of them protested. I'm not naming names, but green dragons and large ginger breads can be fussy.

However, I understood their concerns completely, as I'm not crazy about bath time myself. So I promised them it was perfectly safe and that they'd all get treats afterwards.

Everyone agreed...

...except Mr. Deedle-deedle Dee. Don't let that smile fool you...he's always been a trouble maker.
Are your toys happy on Wash Day? I'd love to hear about it in a comment. And don't forget, you can follow my additional adventures on Facebook and Twitter too.

This is a Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop!! Hosted by my good friends at BlogPaws. Want to join in? See below. Want to see what my fellow pet blogging friends are up to? Visit some of their blogs in the links below and have fun!

The Joy of a Good Book - Pixel Reviews "A Doggy Daycare Day" by L.J. Burns

There is nothing quite as cozy as a warm bed, a snuggly blanket and a good book on a rainy day or a lazy afternoon. I especially love books with or about animals. I like it even better if an animal WRITES THE BOOK. Yes, animals are quite prolific, as you know well from my own musings here on my blog. Animals have a lot to say, and writing is a perfect outlet for us, just like it is for everyone else.

What a joy it was the day I found out my good friend Mitzi Jo (she likes to be called MJ by her friends) co-wrote a book with her Mom L.J. Burns called "A Doggy Daycare Day".

Let me give you a little background on them before I delve into the book. MJ, who has been in TV commercials (including one with the dog whisperer for National Geographic), and can do all kinds of tricks, has been helping run a wonderful doggy daycare with her Mom, who professionally trained dogs for Hollywood for over 20 years before opening the doggy daycare. They share a very special bond. The real life doggie daycare that L.J. owns and operates is called "Camp Jean". If I lived nearby, I'd certainly want to stay there! They have a fantastic looking facility, with several acres of property, all dedicated to making the most fun doggy daycare you've ever seen or experienced! M.J. also has a blog where you can read up on her activities throughout the year.

The book, A Doggy Daycare Day, details a typical day with MJ, her siblings and all the dogs that come to stay with them at the doggy daycare facility. They have all kinds of interesting little adventures. MJ keeps everyone in check and they all have loads of fun. It is a lighthearted look at "a day in the life" of a doggy daycare out in the country.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Andrea Vitali, an incredibly talented artist and children's book illustrator.

WOW! Look at the detail in his work. I feel like I'm in the same room with MJ and her friends in the book. I can almost hear them saying the words I read because they really look like they are talking. His artwork is absolute Disney quality, isn't it!

It is perfect for the very young, the young learning to read, adolescents or just the young at heart. It could really teach kids about how fun dogs can be.
The book itself is in paperback or e-book format. I always think it's more fun to get the actual book, especially one that has such pretty illustrations, not to mention such a well written one by a friend.
"Look Mommy! MJ signed the copy of the book she sent me! It even has her "pawtograph" mark on it." I sure feel special.
So friends, you've got to go get a copy of this book. You can purchase either a paperback or an e-book version on Amazon here.
Do you have a dog book you love? I'd love to hear about it. Leave me a comment and tell me the name. Maybe I can read it or even do a review of it. And of course, if you've written a book and would like me to review it, simply contact me via email at pixelblueeyes dot blog at gmail dot com. 

Pixel's Favorites - 10 Safe & SUPER Foods for Dogs

I love food! I love to eat it, and I love to wear it. I really celebrate a good meal, as does my Mommy, so we always enjoy a good meal together. We both have several smaller meals and a couple of snacks a day, equaling up to what we should have total in a day. Now, we've all heard that dog's shouldn't "eat off the table" or "eat off your plate". I am a refined young lady you know. So of course I don't grab food off of Mommy's plate and she does not give me any of her prepared foods.

There are a few reasons why it is not a good idea to feed your dog directly from your plate, no matter how cute we look as we give you a big smile and sad puppy eyes. Some foods have damaging high fat, high salt, or ingredients that dogs either can't process or are toxic to us, such as onions, raisins and certain spices. But just because we can't eat some human foods, does not mean that dogs can never have people food at all! In fact, lots of dogs have their daily meals made all out of human foods exclusively, such as my friend Susie-Belle from England, who was rescued from a terrible puppy mill and now lives the good life with her Mum & Dad (a chef).
Here is my top 10 favorite human foods (in no particular order) that are not only safe for dogs to eat, but are actually SUPER Foods that provide amazing nutrition that keeps us healthy, fights disease, provides building blocks to a long life and bring lots of yummy to our tummy.
Pixel Blue Eyes' Top 10 Safe SUPER Foods for Dogs
1. Green Beans - omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, K. Good source of calcium, copper, fiber, folic acid, iron, niacin, manganese, potassium, riboflavin and thiamin, beta carotene. Super low calorie, a virtual "free food"
2. Sweet Potatoes - great source of vitamins E, A, B-6 and C, as well as calcium, iron, folate, potassium, copper, thiamine and iron
3. Pumpkin - High fiber, essential fatty acids, promotes digestive & urinary health (Other squash such as butternut is good for us too!)
4. Beets - Excellent for dogs with liver issues, full of beta-carotene, fiber, iron, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, B and C
5. Oatmeal - Essential source of fiber, grain protein, stabilizes blood sugar, high magnesium, contains lignans which protect against heart disease & cancer, antioxidants, boosts immune system, protects against heart failure
6. Bananas - Lots of amino acids, electrolytes, minerals, vitamins B6 and C, potassium, fiber and manganese
7. Zucchini - Good source of calcium, potassium, beta-carotene, and folate. Zucchini is best fed raw or frozen but can also be served cooked
8. Blueberries - high levels of resveratrol, which helps fight against cancer and heart disease. Contains tannins which help prevent urinary tract infections similar to what cranberries do.
9. Watermelon - Lycopene, vitamin A, B-6, C, thiamin
10. Brussel Sprouts - (I know, freaky, right?) vitamins K and G, manganese, folate, fiber, potassium and vitamins A, B1 and B6

Mommy and I have done extensive research, gleaning information from expert resources including well known veterinarians, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and professional dog sites known for their scrupulous knowledge and information. Some of these foods are best cooked a certain way for optimum nutrition absorption, while others can be raw or  just lightly cooked.
Things to keep in mind as you go through my list of favorite human foods that are safe for dogs:
1. Not all dogs will like all foods. Just like people, dogs can have finicky tastes, though generally, we're happy with most any snack or food you give us. If you really want us to eat a certain "good for us" food...hide it in something else we like.
2. Some dogs have sensitive stomachs and are not able to digest the skins of things like raw or even cooked peas or blueberries. ...we've found that all natural and/or organic baby food versions of these fruits, vegetables and grains are FANTASTIC and in a perfect, easily digestible form for little dogs with sensitive stomachs. It's already pureed for you, so it makes for easy snacking and food preparation, depending on your needs, for your dog. Plus, if it's good enough to feed babies and toddlers, it is certainly good enough to feed your dog. Happy Baby Foods and Gerber are two of our favorite brands!

My basic meal at home is a foundation of fat free ground up chicken & a little white rice, then Mommy "mixes it up" for me with different fruits and veggies.

And everyday I get oatmeal in two of my meals. The moisture from the pureed fruits and veggies (sometimes additional water is added as needed) gives it a great consistency when mixed with the chicken!

My sisters, Peanut Pumpkin Pie and Dixie Mae Doxie, have fallen in LOVE with a new all natural fruit combo that is a mix of bananas, blueberries and beets. Talk about a powerhouse of healthy elements, vitamins and minerals!! Plus, it makes each of us look like we're wearing lipstick when a family member squeezes it out of the package and we lick it up with joy! See?

So, look in your cabinets, run to the store, visit your farmers market or dig in your garden and get YOUR pup some super foods to add to their daily diet. Trust me, if you weren't already their favorite (of course you are!) then you surely will be once you start adding these tasty bonus treats to their daily routine!
Healthy eating is never too late to start and always a good idea! If you'd like special instructions on cooking some of the veggies listed, or info on where Mommy orders some of the items we mentioned, leave a comment and we'll contact you!
Now....who wants a banana, blueberry Pixel kiss???

The Joy of Vitality and Good Health with #Somapet

For the Love and Life of your Pet

People often think that I am still a puppy or at least no older than a year or two. They are surprised to discover that I am almost 7 years old. To me, that's just as young as can be, however in dog years, it can mean that a pet starts to slow down. Mommy has always sought to keep me in the best health she can, so she has tried various vitamin and mineral supplements, she has me on probiotics that are incorporated in my meals and she makes sure I exercise (which means play time for me).

Recently, we were asked to try a special high quality supplement called SomaPet, an all natural, vegan whole food supplement specifically designed to jump start your pet's natural ability to repair and regenerate cells. How does it do that you ask? Through the special dietary blend of 8 amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. These amino acids, which are the only ingredients in SomaPet, are designed to work together to improve the overall health of your pet, especially ones who are over the age of 3 and might be showing any signs of aging or slowing down. 

SomaPet was created by Dr. Dr. Philip White developed SomaPet after noticing his pet German Shepherd, Rover, struggling up stairs as he aged. Dr. White had already created SomaLife for humans and realized his beloved Rover could benefit from a supplement just like it. Hence the inspiration for SomaPet was born. 

Benefits of Using SomaPet   

1. Improved Immune Function
2. Improved Nervous Function
3. Promote Natural Healing
4. Increase Vitality and Longevity
5. Improve the Quality of Skin, Hair & Bones
(Select diagram to view bigger for details on health benefits)

I love eating, so whenever it's time to eat for me, I "drop" whatever I'm doing and come running. Sometimes, if I am sleeping and the "clink" of my food bowl on the counter occurs, I run in so fast I carry my blanket with me! It doesn't matter what I'm wearing, the SomaPet supplement and my food tastes great! The instructions said to give a dog that weighs up to 50 pounds one scoop a day, but because I'm only 11 pounds, we started with half that and then built up to the full dose. 

The SomaPet supplement tasted fine to me mixed in with my cooked chicken, rice & veggies. It is such a fine powder that I'm sure it would blend with anything. One thing Mommy noticed with me specifically is that my skin seemed healthier. I have issues sometimes with my thin, pink skin, and often with the skin near and on my tail nub, but having the proper blend of vital amino acids seems to make it healthier with less itchiness. Mommy's been very pleased. 

But don't just take my word for it. Many other pets have tried it too with amazing results! It has given new life to dogs much older than me with crippling arthritis, and cats who had all but given up on being able to run around chasing a laser pointer anymore. Remember that SomaPet is made up of ONLY the finest amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.

To learn more about it or try some yourself, visit their website (you may need Flash to view website) and shopping page, both of which has a wealth of information including ingredients and testimonials. 

DON'T FORGET!!!

Join me (@pixelblueeyes on Twitter) and @SomaPet on Twitter

for a huge #BlogPawsChat on Aug 5 from 8:00 PM – 10:00PM EST. 

They will be giving away bottles of SomaPet!!

I'd love to see you there friends!

This post is sponsored by SomaPet and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about SomaPet, but Pixel Blue Eyes only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. SomaPet is not responsible for the content of this article.