Sightseeing in Rain City

Today was set aside for touring visiting relative around town. Our toy poodle, Arlo,  joined us for a visit to several fun spots in Seattle. (Well, I should say he spent most of his time in the car, but he did take a short walk in the International District, or ID as we refer to our Asian center.) I like it that he can become a city boy and walk nicely on his leash. He hates to stay home with the other dogs, and identifies more as a Momma's boy than a member of the pack, so he was glad to be included, even as a car passenger.

Rain is de rigueur in Seattle this time of year, but not the wild, torrential cloudbursts we dodged today. The fish throwing team at Pike Place Market tossed a few Dungeness Crabs to us, and a loaf of Fremont Sourdough Bread from the Three Girls Bakery provided us with an easy and fun dinner for our houseguest.

Arlo was particularly interested in the crab shells, and made a manly effort to snag a few during the kitchen cleanup. He had to make do with a little special topping on his kibble instead, a little drizzle of melted butter that had a few crab legs dragged through it for extra flavor. The little guy enjoyed his day in the big city and was glad to get home to his doughnut bed with plush lining. We have a couple of these in the store right now in Christmas colors. So soft and perfect for snuggling.

Too bad they don't make these for people. After a busy day of shopping and touring around town, it looks very inviting.

Tomorrow will be time to bake Pumpkin Pies and Almond Cake. Also, we'll  be getting all your dog's winter and holiday gear listed so you can join us on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the weekend in between for some astounding sales and monstrous mark-downs.

Run, Run, As Fast As You Can

You know that dogs would completely "get" the story of the Gingerbread Man. Their irresistible impulse to chase something running away from them is what I'm reminded of whenever I read the popular story to one of the little ones in our family.

 This dog jumpsuit in a soft knit is perfect for all your holiday fun.

And what dog wouldn't just love to have his own plush, squeaky Gingerbread Man to fetch and carry around the house this winter. What a great holiday gift for the dog-owning friend.

 

Then there's only one more of these four-piece toys in stock, just just waiting for your high IQ dog to work on the challenge of pulling all these smaller toys out of the gingerbread house. (Our dogs never get tired of accomplishing this magical stunt, and so appreciate all the praise they receive.)

We all get that urge to rush around and get our holiday shopping done while the

stock is plentiful and there's time to choose the perfect gift for everyone. You know

your dog will appreciate these gingerbread theme gifts, so go ahead and Run, Run

to get these great holiday week buys right now, while they last

Free shipping to USA addresses this week for all Gingerbread items.

Christmas, it's not just for kids!

So you know what Santa carries around in that great big green bag. Toys!

We're starting to look like Santa's workshop around here with lots of fun Christmas toys for the fur kids.

Our customers are already busy buying for the granddog, the family dog, the new puppy, 

and the dog next door. 

We have toys in all sizes, from these tiny reindeer

to these good-sized Santas

no stuffing for this Santa, who measures 22" in length

and this one plays Jingle Bells

There's Mrs. Santa

  and much more to delight your dogs.

My dogs love this monkey ball that rolls and bounces, inside an adorable face 

with several easy pickup points.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A reminder to get your Christmas shopping rolling while we still have lots in stock!

Dog Raincoats

Here's Arlo contemplating the scent of fallen leaves and who knows what else.

In Seattle, we know about raincoats, and so do our dogs. Since we've just begun our season of dark days and pretty much constant rain, (a character-building challenge that causes us to brew large pots of coffee twice a day), we think it's time to show you the typical Pacific Northwest outdoor look.

Notice the tab above the lash slot (turned up here) that flaps down to keep your dog dry while he's walking on the leash.

Contrary to what you may think, hardly anyone in Seattle uses an umbrella. We simply flip up the hood on our parkas and carry on.

We liked the red eye effect here just for fun. After all, it is Halloween!

A hood offers protection from the world and keeps that topknot dry.

The first winter after we migrated here from California I received some sage advice from the friendly owner of our local yarn shop. She said, "You have to learn to enjoy a walk in the rain." In other words, get out in the liquid sunshine and enjoy it.

Wise words, indeed. If walking has the power to relax and restore us mentally, I'd argue that walking in the rain adds a special quality to contemplation.

Here's Hannah after her morning walk, snug and dry, although her raincoat is topped with raindrops. Perhaps she is processing the collage of scent messages she gathered along that woodsy path.

In the rainy season, vitamin D supplements, coffee, and good books are only part of the happiness equation. One must get some daily exercise. Our dogs definitely agree.

Hannah and Arlo wanted to show you how they dress for the rainy days, and remind you not to let a few raindrops get between you and a healthy walk

They enjoy their raincoats and think your dog will love one, too. We have these is several colors, along with a couple of other styles you may like. Just visit the store to see more.

Christmas Ideas for Pet Gifts

This week we'll be listing all our remaining Christmas dog toys and apparel. Now is the time to begin your shopping. Of course, you don't want to be running around at the last minute looking for a gift for your mom's dog or the granddog. We have so many cute and fun items from toys to sweaters.

Even some lovely festive beds that will add to your holiday home decor
and give your pet a cozy spot to rest during all the Christmas bustle.

We're almost at the two month mark, so time to make a list and gather up some lovely pet presents!

Happy Ending Dog Story

Here is an upbeat dog story to enjoy with your morning coffee.

Heartwarming Puppy Story

Here's a story about a boy and puppies that has such a happy ending. In a world of bad news, something beautiful to focus on.