As a child with a visual impairment as well as being overweight and having braces on my teeth, I wasn't exactly "Miss Popularity" with the other kids in my school. Since I grew up in a home without any brothers or sisters to play with either, I learned at an early age how to use my imagination to entertain myself. I loved writing silly poems and short stories as well as spending hours arranging and rearranging the furniture in my dollhouse and inventing all kinds of crazy adventures for my Smurfs. Yes, I was an 80s kid and still a sucker for anything to do with Smurfs!
Now fast-forward to the summer of 2012 when I started volunteering at Pet Pal Animal Shelter and discovered a whole new direction for my creativity. I had been working with clay for about a year by that point and thought it would be nice to have a purpose for my craft. I started making small dogs, dog bones, paw prints, etc. and turned them into key chains, magnets, ornaments, wine stoppers, wine glass charms, etc. which I then donated to Pet Pal to use in their raffle baskets at events. As my techniques improved, more and more people suggested I try selling my pieces, but I had serious doubts whether anyone would really want to pay for some cutesy little clay things that a blind girl made. To my surprise, however, I was proven wrong when someone requested I make some wine stoppers and charms for her friends and, yes, actually paid me real money for them!
OK, you're probably wondering what the point of this whole story is, right? Well, I'm following the advice of others and offering to sell my clay items with the understanding that a portion of each sale will be donated to Pet Pal Animal Shelter. If anyone is interested, please email me at chrisnorm74@gmail.com and I'll be happy to send some pictures of my stuff. Of course pictures are never quite as good as the real thing, but at least you'll get an idea of what I can do. And with the holidays just around the corner, you may just find an inexpensive but unique gift for someone on your list!
I'm also hoping this story shows everyone that, even if you don't have a litter box full of extra cash to donate, there are soooo many other ways to support Pet Pal. Whether you sell your homemade sweet treats at a bake sale or have a birthday or anniversary party where your guests bring items on the Pet Pal Wish List instead of gifts, just use your imagination and start creating for a cause!
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Happy Tails to you until we meet again!
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Fall Fun With Our Furry Friends!
As we head into the autumn season and find that our weekends are filling up with fall festivals, sports activities, and planning ahead for all the holiday gatherings (btw, there are only 93 days until Christmas), let's not forget about the animals. Here's a list of some Pet Pal events coming up in the next few weeks that you and your four-legged friends might enjoy!
September 27th: Paddle for PawsIncludes paddle boarding for humans, beer truck by Sea Dog Brewing Co. in Clearwater, live music, VIP doggie zone, food vendors, and tie dye station (bring a shirt).
NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THE BEACH!
October 2nd: Yappy Hour at Pawsitively Posh Pooch, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00p.m., 1425 4th St. N., St. Petersburg
October 4th: Blessing of the Animals
October 4th: 1st Annual Pup Crawl
Our first dog friendly pup crawl will begin at World of Beer and continue to Cafe Del Mar, The Kitchen at Jannus, One Night Stand, and ending at The Ale and the Witch.
Participants will receive a Swag Bag at the first stop filled with 1 drink ticket per every stop, dog treats, a refillable water bottle, and other fun surprises.
What about the dogs?
We have Doggie Biscuit Bars provided at every stop to keep your best friends happy and nourished provided by One Lucky Dog, Woof Gang Bakery, StPetersbark, Pawsitively Posh Pooch, and Pet Food Warehouse. Dog water will be available at every stop along with refillable water holes for humans.
The Pup Crawl will start at 5pm with the last stop at 8pm.
Pre-Registration fee of $50.00 is required in advance and can be done online by visiting petpalanimalshelter.com.
All proceeds benefit Pet Pal Animal Shelter, a No Kill, Non-Profit Animal Shelter.
Early Registration: World of Beer at 4pm
1st Stop: World of Beer & One Lucky Dog at 5pm
2nd Stop: Cafe Del Mar & Woof Gang Bakery at 5:45pm
3rd Stop: The Kitchen at Jannus & St.Petersbark at 6:30pm
4th Stop: One Night Stand & Pawsitively Posh Pooch at 7:15pm
5th Stop: The Ale and the Witch & Pet Food Warehouse at 8pm
October 9th: Yappy Hour at World of Beer, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., 100 4th St. S., Saint Petersburg.
October 11th: Puppy Love volunteer meeting, 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. at the shelter.
Yes, it's only October and the event isn't until May, but it's never too early to start planning for such a big event!
October 12th: Pet Pal Doggie Reunion, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde
All dogs that have been adopted and their owners are cordially invited to our reunion party for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. Dogs toll fee is only $5.00, parking is free. Water provided for humans and dogs
October 16th: Yappy Hour at Pawsitively Posh Pooch, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00p.m., 1425 4th St. N., St. Petersburg.
So maybe somewhere between all of the craft fares, the kids' soccer games, and the football tailgating parties, you'll have a little time to stop by for some fun with your pampered pooch and you'll be helping to support Pet Pal Animal Shelter at the same time. Gotta love multi-tasking!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
What Our Pets Say About Us
Ever wonder why you're drawn to a particular breed of dog or cat? We often choose animal companions who mirror our own personalities, quirks, levels of physical activity or emotional states. Quiet people tend to keep low-key pets, while outgoing folks will usually care for pets who are social, playful, and affectionate animals. So what does your dog or cat say about you? More to the point, what type of person gravitates to what type of animal? According to the American Kennel Club and the Cat Fanciers Association, here are some popular assumptions about the most popular dog and cat breeds in the country.
DOG BREEDS...
Labrador Retriever: Labs are among the most cheerful, good-natured, family friendly dogs around and people who have them tend to be family-oriented, low-key, gregarious people who enjoy the company of others. Like their dogs, lab owners are usually very even-tempered.
Golden Retriever: Goldens are similar to Labs in their temperament and nature: friendly, cheerful, active dogs who are great with families. Owners of golden retrievers also tend to be social, family-centered, open and honest.
Beagle: One of the smallest hounds, beagles are bright, curious, questing dogs with gentle dispositions and strong wills. If you have a beagle in your house, chances are you are a curious, willful person as well, loyal to friends, tough on enemies, vocal and probably pretty stubborn.
Poodle: Poodles are the runway models of the popular breeds, highly intelligent and graceful. Poodle owners are often detail-oriented, appreciate art and culture, and take great pleasure in the classic lines and look of their dogs.
If you keep a poodle, it's likely that you also favor other classics like cars, paintings or wine.
German Shepherd: The German shepherd is protective, intelligent and highly adaptive. Owners are often outdoor types who expect a companion who can thrive in almost any environment. They are also often concerned with security, relying on the dog for protection.
Dachshund: Because of their size and happy, curious disposition, the Dachshund is a wonderful first pet for children. Like Beagles, they can be stubborn and nosy, and if you keep one, it’s likely that you are a bit stubborn, questioning, and mischievous yourself.
Yorkshire Terrier: The tiny Yorkie is smart, alert and an excellent watchdog. Women tend to own Yorkies more than men, but men who are confident and don’t need to own a big “macho” dog often make wonderful parents to this English breed. Yorkie owners tend to be childless, as the dogs aren’t fond of kids.
Cocker Spaniel: The classic American family dog, the cocker spaniel is gentle, playful, sweet and a perfect size for smaller children. Cocker owners are usually family-minded, gentle, and highly affectionate toward both dogs and humans.
Boxer: The boxer is all things canine: cautious yet friendly, snugly yet rough-and-tumble, smart and independent. Boxer owners tend to be the same way, able to get tough with a dog that needs strong training, but able to play and be silly with a great clown of a dog. Boxer owners are often emotionally healthy people.
Border Collie: If there’s a dog for the active, outdoor enthusiast, it’s the border collie. Smart as a whip, the Border collie must have designated jobs, usually outside. That means an owner embraces the outdoors and has boundless energy. If you hike, bike, ski and climb, you probably have a Border collie.
CAT BREEDS...
Persian Cats: Known as the couch potatoes of the feline world, Persians are the perfect cats for homebodies, people who love nothing more than to have a beautiful animal companion by their side or accenting a lovely home. Active folks may want to look elsewhere.
Siamese Cats: Elegant and poised, Siamese cats may be the most beautiful domestic animals on earth. They are incredible communicators with a variety of vocalizations. People who love Siamese usually don’t care so much about peace and quiet at home…they want to interact with their cats and find out what’s on their minds. They also tend to be great communicators with others as well.
Calico/Tortoiseshell Cats: These mixed breed shorthairs are often favored by those who love their mottled, multi-colored coats and playful dispositions. Calico owners are often family people who love beautiful things in their homes. It’s interesting to note that almost all calico/tortoiseshell cats are female.
Maine Coon Cats: This large, powerful American cat is a bundle of devotion, gentleness and good nature, often bonding to one family for life. Maine coon owners tend to be the same way: family-oriented people who are very loyal, and whose families may have lived in the same region for generations.
Abyssinian Cats: The gorgeous Abyssinian is a curious, active, high-spirited cat who gets into everything, has to find out about everything, and wants to be everywhere you are. If you own one, it’s likely that you run a flexible house where creativity is valued above order, and that you can easily lose yourself in play or exploration.
American Shorthair Cats: This cat is consistently one of the most popular pure breeds in the country, and appeals to a wide range of owners. Most commonly, people who own American shorthairs are family-centered but independent, and they want their pets to exhibit affection but also have a healthy streak of self-reliance.
Russian Blue Cats: These elegant, gorgeous silver-blue animals are quiet, clean, stately and intelligent, yet they have a hunter’s streak and a desire to receive affection. Like American shorthair owners, Russian blue owners are often people who value independence but can also show great affection when the time is right.
Burmese Cats: Burmese are lovely cats who are both loyal companions and in constant need of affection. Owners are usually homebodies who spend free hours relaxing or entertaining at home, and enjoy spending time cuddling with cats and humans alike.
So whether you prefer cats or dogs, take a little time to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics to find the one that will be the best fit for your family and lifestyle. Animals in shelters are looking for their furever home, so please make
an informed choice about the type of pet you and your family desire.
Thanks again for taking the time to read this.
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
DOG BREEDS...
Labrador Retriever: Labs are among the most cheerful, good-natured, family friendly dogs around and people who have them tend to be family-oriented, low-key, gregarious people who enjoy the company of others. Like their dogs, lab owners are usually very even-tempered.
Golden Retriever: Goldens are similar to Labs in their temperament and nature: friendly, cheerful, active dogs who are great with families. Owners of golden retrievers also tend to be social, family-centered, open and honest.
Beagle: One of the smallest hounds, beagles are bright, curious, questing dogs with gentle dispositions and strong wills. If you have a beagle in your house, chances are you are a curious, willful person as well, loyal to friends, tough on enemies, vocal and probably pretty stubborn.
Poodle: Poodles are the runway models of the popular breeds, highly intelligent and graceful. Poodle owners are often detail-oriented, appreciate art and culture, and take great pleasure in the classic lines and look of their dogs.
If you keep a poodle, it's likely that you also favor other classics like cars, paintings or wine.
German Shepherd: The German shepherd is protective, intelligent and highly adaptive. Owners are often outdoor types who expect a companion who can thrive in almost any environment. They are also often concerned with security, relying on the dog for protection.
Dachshund: Because of their size and happy, curious disposition, the Dachshund is a wonderful first pet for children. Like Beagles, they can be stubborn and nosy, and if you keep one, it’s likely that you are a bit stubborn, questioning, and mischievous yourself.
Yorkshire Terrier: The tiny Yorkie is smart, alert and an excellent watchdog. Women tend to own Yorkies more than men, but men who are confident and don’t need to own a big “macho” dog often make wonderful parents to this English breed. Yorkie owners tend to be childless, as the dogs aren’t fond of kids.
Cocker Spaniel: The classic American family dog, the cocker spaniel is gentle, playful, sweet and a perfect size for smaller children. Cocker owners are usually family-minded, gentle, and highly affectionate toward both dogs and humans.
Boxer: The boxer is all things canine: cautious yet friendly, snugly yet rough-and-tumble, smart and independent. Boxer owners tend to be the same way, able to get tough with a dog that needs strong training, but able to play and be silly with a great clown of a dog. Boxer owners are often emotionally healthy people.
Border Collie: If there’s a dog for the active, outdoor enthusiast, it’s the border collie. Smart as a whip, the Border collie must have designated jobs, usually outside. That means an owner embraces the outdoors and has boundless energy. If you hike, bike, ski and climb, you probably have a Border collie.
CAT BREEDS...
Persian Cats: Known as the couch potatoes of the feline world, Persians are the perfect cats for homebodies, people who love nothing more than to have a beautiful animal companion by their side or accenting a lovely home. Active folks may want to look elsewhere.
Siamese Cats: Elegant and poised, Siamese cats may be the most beautiful domestic animals on earth. They are incredible communicators with a variety of vocalizations. People who love Siamese usually don’t care so much about peace and quiet at home…they want to interact with their cats and find out what’s on their minds. They also tend to be great communicators with others as well.
Calico/Tortoiseshell Cats: These mixed breed shorthairs are often favored by those who love their mottled, multi-colored coats and playful dispositions. Calico owners are often family people who love beautiful things in their homes. It’s interesting to note that almost all calico/tortoiseshell cats are female.
Maine Coon Cats: This large, powerful American cat is a bundle of devotion, gentleness and good nature, often bonding to one family for life. Maine coon owners tend to be the same way: family-oriented people who are very loyal, and whose families may have lived in the same region for generations.
Abyssinian Cats: The gorgeous Abyssinian is a curious, active, high-spirited cat who gets into everything, has to find out about everything, and wants to be everywhere you are. If you own one, it’s likely that you run a flexible house where creativity is valued above order, and that you can easily lose yourself in play or exploration.
American Shorthair Cats: This cat is consistently one of the most popular pure breeds in the country, and appeals to a wide range of owners. Most commonly, people who own American shorthairs are family-centered but independent, and they want their pets to exhibit affection but also have a healthy streak of self-reliance.
Russian Blue Cats: These elegant, gorgeous silver-blue animals are quiet, clean, stately and intelligent, yet they have a hunter’s streak and a desire to receive affection. Like American shorthair owners, Russian blue owners are often people who value independence but can also show great affection when the time is right.
Burmese Cats: Burmese are lovely cats who are both loyal companions and in constant need of affection. Owners are usually homebodies who spend free hours relaxing or entertaining at home, and enjoy spending time cuddling with cats and humans alike.
So whether you prefer cats or dogs, take a little time to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics to find the one that will be the best fit for your family and lifestyle. Animals in shelters are looking for their furever home, so please make
an informed choice about the type of pet you and your family desire.
Thanks again for taking the time to read this.
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
Friday, September 5, 2014
Playing With The Rays
So, as I arrived at Pet Pal Animal Shelter this past Wednesday for what I thought would be a fairly typical day at the shelter, I heard some pretty exciting news. One of the starting pitchers for the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team, Jake Odorizzi, would be coming in that afternoon for a photo shoot with some of the adoptable dogs! Those lucky dogs...wish I could have been one of them posing for pictures with him!
I've always been a baseball fan in general but, since coming to Pet Pal and learning about all the awesome things the Rays do to help support the shelter, I've become a true fan of this team...even if they are having a bit of a rough time this year! LOL! I just love all they do for the animals in the community!
Besides the great fund raisers and events they do as a team at Tropicana field, for the past couple of years Pet Pal Animal Shelter and the Tampa Bay Rays have also put together the "Players and Pooches" calendars featuring photos of players and their own favorite furry friends. These have been wildly popular and a huge win for all! We're already looking forward to the 2015 calendar!
Another cool thing they do periodically is invite Pet Pal to bring a few of their adoptable dogs to hang out and watch the game from a designated area of the stadium. Shelter staff and volunteers are there to hand out information and answer questions about Pet Pal to help raise awareness. This also gets the dogs out of their kennel for a few hours and helps socialize them with people and other dogs.
Pet Pal Animal Shelter and their dogs will be at Tropicana field this coming Sunday, September 7th, so come on out to the game and visit with them. You might just find your very own all star who will become your own #1 four-legged fan!
Let's go RAYS!
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
I've always been a baseball fan in general but, since coming to Pet Pal and learning about all the awesome things the Rays do to help support the shelter, I've become a true fan of this team...even if they are having a bit of a rough time this year! LOL! I just love all they do for the animals in the community!
Besides the great fund raisers and events they do as a team at Tropicana field, for the past couple of years Pet Pal Animal Shelter and the Tampa Bay Rays have also put together the "Players and Pooches" calendars featuring photos of players and their own favorite furry friends. These have been wildly popular and a huge win for all! We're already looking forward to the 2015 calendar!
Another cool thing they do periodically is invite Pet Pal to bring a few of their adoptable dogs to hang out and watch the game from a designated area of the stadium. Shelter staff and volunteers are there to hand out information and answer questions about Pet Pal to help raise awareness. This also gets the dogs out of their kennel for a few hours and helps socialize them with people and other dogs.
Pet Pal Animal Shelter and their dogs will be at Tropicana field this coming Sunday, September 7th, so come on out to the game and visit with them. You might just find your very own all star who will become your own #1 four-legged fan!
Let's go RAYS!
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
Monday, September 1, 2014
Summertime Blues!
So here it is Labor Day weekend and the unofficial end of summer already. Personally, this is my favorite time of year but I'm sure many of you will miss the summer because it means the end of relaxing vacations and the perfect weather for fishing, gardening, going to the beach, etc. Well, there are lots of fun events coming up for Pet Pal Animal Shelter this month to help rid you and your playful pets of those summertime blues.
September 4th & 18th - Yappy Hour at Pawsitively Posh Pooch, 1425 4th St. N., (727) 892-9303
Yappy Hour is a wonderful way to kick off the weekend. Pets and their people gather together to socialize, shop, and enjoy a glass of wine, hour' devours and treats. Pet Pal Animal Shelter will have adoptable dogs there for you to drool over too!
September 11th - Yappy Hour at World of Beer, 100 4th St. S., (727) 823-2337
Every 2nd Thursday of the month on the patio of World Of Beer - Downtown St. Pete, we will have adoptable Pet Pal dogs, games & prizes, human food compliments of CA Cafe , Dog treats, and beer specials!
4th Annual Golf Tournament
• When: Saturday, September 13, 2014
• Where: MANGROVE BAY Golf Club
• Time: 8:00 a.m. Shotgun Start
• Cost: $65.00 per player
Includes: Golf, cart, beer/soda (your choice of 2 per person) on course, door prizes, contest prizes and team prizes! Lunch following play at Gigi’s (5901 4th St. N.) With draft beer (3 kegs) or soda.
WE ARE SELLING HOLE SPONSORS FOR $50 (Company or Individual ) for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. All checks should be made out to Pet Pal Animal Shelter.
Deadline to enter: SEPTEMBER 5th
To enter your team call Gary at (727) 533-8887 with your foursome names
PAY BY CASH OR CHECK (made out to Sirmon’s Insurance) ONLY
Mail your entry fee to:
Sirmon’s Insurance - 1000 Cove Cay Dr., Suite 1D, Clearwater, FL 3376
September 13th - Open House at Dog Training Club of St. Pete, 4400-B 34th St. N, (727) 527-5568
September 27th - Paddle for Paws
Includes paddle boarding for humans, beer truck by Sea Dog Brewing Co., live music, VIP doggie zone, food vendors, and tie-dye station (bring a shirt)
NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THE BEACH
For more details on any of these events, please contact the shelter at (727) 328-7738.
Of course you're always welcome to stop by Pet Pal Tuesday through Saturday and spend some time cuddling with the cats in the cat room or playing with the pups, which is sure to bring a little sunshine into your day! It's hard not to smile and have a good time with all those lovable critters around! Who knows, you might even find a furever friend waiting there for you!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
September 4th & 18th - Yappy Hour at Pawsitively Posh Pooch, 1425 4th St. N., (727) 892-9303
Yappy Hour is a wonderful way to kick off the weekend. Pets and their people gather together to socialize, shop, and enjoy a glass of wine, hour' devours and treats. Pet Pal Animal Shelter will have adoptable dogs there for you to drool over too!
September 11th - Yappy Hour at World of Beer, 100 4th St. S., (727) 823-2337
Every 2nd Thursday of the month on the patio of World Of Beer - Downtown St. Pete, we will have adoptable Pet Pal dogs, games & prizes, human food compliments of CA Cafe , Dog treats, and beer specials!
4th Annual Golf Tournament
• When: Saturday, September 13, 2014
• Where: MANGROVE BAY Golf Club
• Time: 8:00 a.m. Shotgun Start
• Cost: $65.00 per player
Includes: Golf, cart, beer/soda (your choice of 2 per person) on course, door prizes, contest prizes and team prizes! Lunch following play at Gigi’s (5901 4th St. N.) With draft beer (3 kegs) or soda.
WE ARE SELLING HOLE SPONSORS FOR $50 (Company or Individual ) for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. All checks should be made out to Pet Pal Animal Shelter.
Deadline to enter: SEPTEMBER 5th
To enter your team call Gary at (727) 533-8887 with your foursome names
PAY BY CASH OR CHECK (made out to Sirmon’s Insurance) ONLY
Mail your entry fee to:
Sirmon’s Insurance - 1000 Cove Cay Dr., Suite 1D, Clearwater, FL 3376
September 13th - Open House at Dog Training Club of St. Pete, 4400-B 34th St. N, (727) 527-5568
September 27th - Paddle for Paws
Includes paddle boarding for humans, beer truck by Sea Dog Brewing Co., live music, VIP doggie zone, food vendors, and tie-dye station (bring a shirt)
NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THE BEACH
For more details on any of these events, please contact the shelter at (727) 328-7738.
Of course you're always welcome to stop by Pet Pal Tuesday through Saturday and spend some time cuddling with the cats in the cat room or playing with the pups, which is sure to bring a little sunshine into your day! It's hard not to smile and have a good time with all those lovable critters around! Who knows, you might even find a furever friend waiting there for you!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.
Happy tails to you until we meet again!
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