Daisy's Blog

Let's Go Surfin Now, Daisy is learnin How...

2009-07-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

Daisy just returned from her fun filled vacation in San Diego, CA. We stayed at the Loews Hotel in Coronado Bay, which is infamous for being "dog friendly". I would say that is putting it lightly. I booked the "surf and turf package" which included a pair of board shorts, private surf lessons on dog beach, and a room service meal for her. The concierge even made us reservations at some terrific restaurants that too, were dog friendly. In addition to the package the hotel gave her food/water bowls, a toy, a bandanna, and some delicious treats. We loved this hotel!

We had a lot of fun on dog beach. As it turns out, Daisy is a natural when it comes to catching waves. She did well staying on the board and after some instruction, she learned where to stand for the best ride. In addition to proudly watching Daisy during her very first surf lesson, I was humored by the many dogs at play. Some with a strong affinity to water and others to the sand.

All though the surf lesson was certainly one of the highlights to this vacation, the fun didn't stop there... Daisy joined us on a kayak tour through the La Jolla Caves, sailing, and on a Go Car tour that explored San Diego. While kayaking, I am not sure she knew what to make of a bunch of sea lions barking at her and during the sail, she took a nap. The Go car tour was definatly memorable. That was a three-wheeled motorcycle, with a fibergalss overaly to look like a very small car. You wear helmets, because it is in fact a motorcycle and ride on a designated route. My husband drove and Daisy sat on my lap, while the automated GPS provided us with a whitty and comical tour as we explored San Diego from a very unque persepective. Since this faux car only reaches a max speed of 30mph and is bright yellow, we attracted a number of onlookers who were waving and smiling. I suppose Daisy on my lap in this tiny car was also not something you see everyday. San Diego proved to be one of my all time favorite places to take Daisy. I can't wait to plan our next trip.

A Fun Take on Family and Pet Portraits

2009-06-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

It was a privilege to finally meet "The Pawtographer" at a local celebrity event. Why such a unique privilege, you wonder? Well, in addition to his celebrity clientele, a chance to make it to the front of one of his very long lines, marks a truly special occasion. He does travel nationwide in addition to shooting in his studio, to offer photo oppurtunities to pets and owners, alike, but is rather known for drawing a crowd, due to his overwhelming popularity.

A Pawtography portrait is nothing short of an experience beacsue the most unique and imaginative sets are used for the photo shoots. Every last detail is attended to, since real props are used instead of 1-dimensional backdrops. In fact, it even feels like you are on the mini version of a movie set at Universal Studios. Perhaps, that is what sets him apart from the competition.

Daisy was equally enthused about this, as you can see by her facial expressions and adorable head tilt in the photo below. She really was captivated by the man standing behind the Pawtographer, squeaking toys and calling her name. If you are considering an appointment with the Pawtogapher, it is worth mentioning that your pet should be able to sit and stay on command for the best outcome. Daisy of course is quite capable of that, since she knows a treat is a likely reward for such good listening. In fact, if she is shown a treat in advance, she will demonstrate all of her tricks in a row, as if it were a choreographed routine. If she had her own personals add, it would read; cute, funny and highly motivated.

The Pawtographer used two separate scenes with Daisy, a pirate ship and a dock scene, complete with pilings and sand. I opted out of dressing her in the pirate costume, but I did pose with her in the dock scene. Right now Daisy is an only child, but if she had siblings, human or otherwise, I would certainly do this annually for the perfect holiday greeting or family portrait. The Pawtographer does photograph many children and families in addition to pets.

If you should get an opportunity to meet the Pawtographer at a pet event or if you are local to his studio, you should definitely have a photo taken. Worth the wait and it will be a memorable event, guaranteed.

Singles and Dogs: Hot Topic at Ben Stein's House

2009-05-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to get an invite to attend a book signing party at the Stein home...Yes, I am talking about Ben Stein, most famously remembered for his role as the droning teacher in Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

First, the home was lovely and Ben and his wife Alex were cordial and gracious hosts. The guest list included many members from the IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare), the Best Friends Animal Society, and many others vested in supporting animals, like Daphney Zuniga (Melrose Place) and Rider Strong (Boy Meets World). The guest of honor though, was Betsy Rosenfeld, the author of "The Complete Guide to Single's and Dog Ownership." She is also well known for her blog, lovethydog.com. Betsy took a picture with me after signing my copy over to Daisy. Even though Daisy is a dog and cannot read (despite my efforts to teach her of course) she does listen intently when I read aloud to her. After reading this one, I think we would both agree that we give it a thumbs up and in Daisy's case, a paws up. It is jam packed with lots of practical tips for having a dog and even traveling with a dog. What I love most is that it is user friendly and organized in a way that you could easily access info that you need in the moment, without reading cover to cover.

Proceeds from the book sales went to benefit the IFAW. Since it is such an awesome book and an awesome cause, Daisy Couture showed support by including coupons in the gift bags that the guests received. I also brought Daisy Couture gifts for the 4 legged members of the house, which were graciously received and appreciated.

I love parties centered around animals and not only was this one about a dog book, but the decor was dog themed, and the party was dog friendly. Many dogs actually attended with their owners, including Betsy's yellow Lab. I am pretty sure he enjoyed himself, despite the fact that he really wanted to take a dip in the Stein's pool and was not allowed. A wet dog running through a party of well dressed guests might not have been so welcomed. Lucky for the leash. The party in all was a huge success and a lot of fun.

Easter Bunny or Easter Dog?

2009-04-12T11:33:00.000-07:00

Easter is Daisy's favorite day of the year. Why? Because she eagerly anticipates the hunt-Easter Egg Hunt, that is. That is not to say, she would not be equally as happy if I could figure out a way to hide squirrels inside the house.

I have been filling tiny plastic eggs with healthy treats, such as organic green beans and carrots every year, since I adopted Daisy. No training was ever necessary to teach her how to participate in the hunt, the treats always seem to be motivation enough. In fact, she even knows how to crack them open, take the prize and begin searching for the next treat-filled, egg-shaped package . Super smart or super eager to indulge in the fruits (or vegetables, in this case) of her labor? You be the judge, but I believe it's both.

Now full and exhausted from her mental and physical exercise, she is now indulging in her second favorite Easter activity...the mid-morning nap. It's true what the say, "a tired dog is a happy dog"! Just 364 days until we get to do this all over again. What to do til then? I will think of something. Stay tuned...

Pooch Pageants

2009-02-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

They're all the rage in Long Beach, California from Pug Pageants to Bulldog beauty contests.
In celebration of these cuddly piles of drool, Haute Dog is sponsoring the Bulldog beauty pageant. Sun., Feb. 15, noon, at Marine Stadium in Long Beach, California. Although there may not be a swimsuit or talent portion, these dogs will strut their stuff in true pageant style, down a 100-ft. red carpet.

Daisy, definitely not a Bulldog, has participated in many past pageants and events hosted by Haute Dogs. More than the socialization, she loves the fans clapping and cheering in her honor and of course the star treatment by the "puparazzi". Aside from the fun and games, these events raise money to help animals in Long Beach area. Fair warning though, the competition tends to be fierce. Owners take these competitions very seriously, designing costumes well in advance. Their Halloween Parade gets the biggest turnout and warrants the most preparation and creativity to take a prize. Prize or no prize, these dogs are all winners. Want to check out a Haute Dog event, they are always free to spectate and cost a small fee to participate. Dogs must be well behaved and on a leash for safety. These events are great fun for the whole family.

Does your pet need a new collar?

2009-01-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

Does your pet's collar look like it's been mistaken for a chew toy? Is it worn or faded? Well, maybe it's time to spring for a new collar to keep your pet looking as great as you do.

I am thrilled to announce that Daisy Couture is now online. Check out our site at daisycouturecollars.com to find our latest styles of both dog and cat collars. But, how do you know which type of collar is best for your dog? There is all kinds of walking equipment available on the market including a wide variety of collars, harnesses, and leads. The first thing to know is that it is always the owners responsibility to determine the right equipment for their pet. Of course checking with your vet or dog trainer is always the best advice, but here are some tips to keep in mind.

Collars are important for all dogs and cats to hold their I.D tags. Although more and more pets are microchipped, not everyone knows to look for them.
Collars that break away are always advisable for cats to keep them safe from getting stuck or caught and chocking from their collar.
Harnesses can be worn in addition to a collar for walking or to fasten your pet to his or her carseat or stroller.
Consider a martindale style collar or a harness if your pet's head is smaller then their neck (i.e. Greyhounds). This will prevent your pet from slipping out of their collar when on a leash.
Consider specific harnesses for pulling or stalling behaviors. The freedom harness and the easy walk are two of my favorites.
When choosing a collar, harness or both, proper fit is essential to ensure the safety of your pet. A two finger space between collar or harness and your pet's body is a good general rule to follow. Equipment that is too tight or too loose can cause harm to your pet. Check with a professional to decide if a piece of equipment is a good fit for your pet.