The other day I found myself mesmerized by an article about a wedding ceremony recently performed in Florida. What made this ceremony so special were the participants;

"Tiffany is an 8-year-old standard poodle and Skipper is a 12-year-old beagle/jack russell mix. On Saturday they will take a break from their therapy dog roles and don a wedding dress and tux before some of their closest friends. Actual vows will be exchanged – doggie style – and a champagne reception complete with “people” and “doggie” wedding cakes and hors d’oeuvres will immediately follow".

But that wasn’t the interesting part, after all, I work in the pet industry so I see a lot of this kind of thing, the paragraph that got me thinking was:

“Skipper ditched his old wife for a younger one with Tiffany,” said Helen Savill, of the Treasure Coast Humane Society.
“The wedding is the second marriage for both.”

I have heard of quite a few dog weddings but this was the first time I’d heard of a doggie divorce. And this got me thinking; with the human divorce rate above 50% what do dogs know that we don’t (I should say in the interests of full disclosure that I am part of the divorced 50%)

Let’s crunch the numbers. Taking an admittedly small sample (me) I have heard of about two dozen doggie weddings over the last five years and in that same time this is the first divorce I’ve encountered. Given a sampling error rate of 5-10 % (I’m wrong about 10% of the time) that still leads us to the the conclusion that up to 90% of all doggie marriages are successful. That’s amazing!

So what can we learn from our canine compadres? I’ve drawn up a list of the ten things dogs can teach us about marriage.

1. Make sure your marriage is arranged, preferably by someone who feeds you regularly and is happy to pick up your poop. It’s a fact of life that anyone who picks up your poop must really have your best interests at heart. (let me also point out here that arranged marriages have been the norm rather than the exception for most of human history)

2. Your partner doesn’t always have to be of the opposite sex.
(Especially if you live in Massachusetts) Remarkable but true! I’ve heard of several same sex doggie weddings that are still going strong years later. Draw your own conclusions here

3. Leg humping is an art form, and like any art form, practice makes perfect.

4. There’s no reason why the wedding should be limited to only two parties. I have heard of several situations where three or more dogs have participated in the festivities (It also spices up the honeymoon no end) Of course these dogs all lived in Utah and are currently evading the law.

5. It’s not the size of the snozzage, it’s the tastiness of the treat…of course no matter how tasty the treat bad breath is inexcusable, especially on the wedding night! A few squirts of Dog Smog Remedy Breath Freshener will prevent this muttrimonial "faux paw"

6. Always dress up for your wedding. Tuxedos and wedding dresses, are a must, however it seems less important that the clothes actually stay on throughout the entire ceremony (I have to say however that for the majority of human weddings long term clothing retention is a definite plus…I for one prefer my relatives clothed) A little spritz of Shimmering Mist is an excellent way to class up even the most dog-eared wedding gown, spray a little on the bride’s "decolletage" for some doggie sparkle.

7. Be loyal

8. Be flexible on rule 7, especially if your being disloyal with someone who has great snacks

9. Don’t take it too seriously. In fact if you feel like going for a pee in the middle of the wedding vows go right ahead, of course your prospective mother in law may have a heart attack. and depending on your relationship with her this could be a good or bad thing.

10. …and please, be responsible, always have have your partner spayed or neutered! (Especially if you catch him with that bitch from down the street!)

These are only the ideas that sprang to my mind. Has your dog taught you any interesting lessons about marriage? Drop us a line and we’ll post the funniest, or most insightful.

Click here to read the press release

Jai Rodriguez, one of the stars of the Emmy-winning TV show, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy has two Yorkies, Nemo and Dori.

In an article released today on MSNBC he said, “I never leave home without the Sparkle and Shine Shimmering Mist from Happytails Canine Spa line. The product has a hint of glitter and moisturizes fur with silk proteins that also help to repel dirt and prevent doggie odors. I use it to brush out their coats several times a week. I do love a fragrance — I love them to look like dogs but smell like people.”

The article is titled “Groovy spots for gooming Fido on the Road.” Click here to read the entire article.

Jai is now hosting a new doggie reality show called “Groomer Has It” premiering April 12 at 9.00 p.m. (ET/PT), on Animal Planet.

When it comes to innovative personal care products you no longer have to look to L’Oreal or Shiseido for the latest ingredients and cutting edge concepts. Today the hottest trends are often spotted first in high-end dog products! Whether it’s the use of micro-encapsulated ingredients, new formulas based on state-of-the-art research or just 100% organic food that would be the envy of even the most militant Vegan, these days it’s likely that your dog’s products are more advanced than yours. 

Take InFuzion Shampoo & Conditioner by happytails, a new formula that contains a unique blend of 14 amino acids which were formulated to resemble cell membrane proteins in the hair. They penetrate the follicle, replenish lost moisture and help condition, repair and strengthen. InFuzion also features a swirl of blue beads with micro-encapsulated vitamins right in the formula. 

Kevin Fisher, owner of happytails said, “Dogs usually have much thicker hair than humans, and of course they usually have more of it. In the past you could add any number of great conditioners to your products but they would have a hard time penetrating thick fur, they’d just get rinsed down the drain. InFuzion’s micro beads work their way through the coat and then as you rub they release against the skin delivering the vitamins and conditioners right where they’re needed- to dry and irritated skin.” 
 

Happytails is not the only one leading the way. VivoAnimals of Seattle have introduced several formulas designed to stimulate the production of Nitric Oxide in the dog’s body. Why? Well, research shows that Nitric Oxide regulates blood flow and improved blood flow improves a dog’s health. You may have heard of a drug in the human arena that emerged form the same research; Viagra. 

Even something as basic as food has seen a massive change in the last few years. The distinction between pet food and human food is rapidly evaporating.  In fact you have to look no further than a company called the Honest Kitchen that produces completely organic,  human quality food, in fact the company motto is People Food - Formulated for Pets!  Their foods contains no by-products, added salt or sugar, chemical preservatives, artificial colors or flavors and NO beet pulp, rice, wheat, corn, or soy.  “I wish my diet was this healthy,” Fisher said.

Fisher added, “Today’s pet product creators and formulators are not reacting to the trends in human personal care they’re leading the way forward.”

If this isn’t a case of the tail wagging the dog then it might be a case of the dog wagging the human.

With almost 3 million Americans buying Valentine’s gifts for their dogs and 30 million sharing their beds with them, clearly the differences between humans and canines are disappearing. In the past, spending Valentine’s Day with your canine companion could be the choice of last resort but now for many dog owners it’s preferable.

You find yourself alone, again, on Valentine’s Day. So you turn to Plan B, your faithful, furry canine companion. If this story sounds familiar you’re not alone. Over 15 million* single people own dogs in this country and it’s a good bet that most of them have curled up with their dog on at least one Valentine’s day.

Today, human and hound can share everything from a Valentine’s Day meal for two, to spa and pampering products and even matching clothes.

Just look at Dogster.com which is basically the Facebook for dogs. Dogs can send messages to other dogs, invite them to be pup pals and send virtual gifts!

“People view their dogs as extensions of their personalities,” says Kevin Fisher, co-owner of happytails Canine Spa Line. “If the owner is into sports, they’ll have a sporty dog. If the owner is into fashion, the dog will have a wardrobe. With someone around who likes all the same things as you do, why look any further? You’ve found you perfect Valentine.”

Some dog owners are taking the trend even further as the differences between humans and canines disappear. “People are looking for ways not only to bond with their dog, but to humanize them,” Fisher said. “Just look at Dogster.com which is basically the Facebook for dogs. Dogs can send messages to other dogs, invite them to be pup pals and send virtual gifts!”

So according to almost 3 million* Americans who actually buy Valentine’s gifts for their dogs apparently it is perfectly acceptable to date your dog this Valentine’s Day.

Here are a few things that you can share with your special furball this Valentine’s Day:

• If a movie on the couch is your plan for Valentine’s Day forget the popcorn! Sammy Snacks Treats are created especially for owners to enjoy with their dog.

• Feeling a little dry? bowWOW Butter Balm is an indulgent shea butter treatment for relieving dry cracked noses and paws. This blissful balm will also moisturize your dry lips, elbows, cuticles and heels (and it makes a great massage cream should you be in the mood)

• Maybe you can’t share clothes with your dog, but you can match. Check out the hip fashions from Ruff Ruff & Meow.

• If you want to take a hike on Valentine’s day, now you and Fido can sip from the same Water Bottle. One bottle, two separate water supplies! Keeps you and your pet properly hydrated on those long hikes!

• Is your dog’s bad breath and gas becoming a little overwhelming? Dog Smog Remedy to the rescue. This all natural breath freshener and digestive solution is sugar-free and delicious to both hounds and humans.

• The classic yoga pose, downward facing dog, has taken on a whole new meaning. Why not spend Valentine’s Day getting even closer to your innerdog with some at home Yoga (or Doga). Check out “Doga: Yoga for Dogs“

• If you’re really feeling frisky, why not share your bed with Fido this Valentine’s Day? According to Sealy, the mattress company, 67% of US pet owners regularly sleep with their dog or cat.

• You and your little loved one can be matching fashionistas in co-ordinating newsboy caps and scarves from Barking Baby. Leopard fur, menswear plaids, and bold florals are just a few of the prints available.

• Okay, maybe this isn’t YOUR first choice in movies, but in every successful relationship there is compromise. On movie night why not also pop in the Movie for Dogs. Your dog will love it.

• So a night out on the town is in store for you this Valentine’s Day? Put on your hills, your little black dress and sprtiz on your dog’s Shimmering Mist. It can be sprayed onto your hair, décolletage or any other body part. This subtle glitter spray contains natural silk proteins that moisturize and restructure the coat (or hair), leaving it silky, smooth and glittery.

*According to the 2007/08 APPMA National Pet Owners Survey
                                                            

Top 10 Reasons Why Your Dog is a Better Companion than your Partner

1. You were sober when you picked out your dog (no beer goggles)

2. Your dog doesn’t argue about what movie to see

3. Your dog isn’t looking at other humans wishing she was theirs

4. Your dog likes all the food you cook and always comes back for seconds

5. Your dog is always happy to see you, even if you look like crap

6. If you dog could speak he would say “of course I love to cuddle”

7. When you ask your dog “Do these pants make my butt look big?” he’s smart enough not to tell you the truth

8. Your dog doesn’t hold grudges

9. Your dog will listen to you for hours without interrupting

10. No matter what, your dog is always up for a little heavy petting

With almost 3 million Americans buying Valentine’s gifts for their dogs and 30 million sharing their beds with them, clearly the differences between humans and canines are disappearing. In the past, spending Valentine’s Day with your canine companion could be the choice of last resort but now for many dog owners it’s preferable.

You find yourself alone, again, on Valentine’s Day. So you turn to Plan B, your faithful, furry canine companion. If this story sounds familiar you’re not alone. Over 15 million* single people own dogs in this country and it’s a good bet that most of them have curled up with their dog on at least one Valentine’s day.

Today, human and hound can share everything from a Valentine’s Day meal for two, to spa and pampering products and even matching clothes.

Just look at Dogster.com which is basically the Facebook for dogs. Dogs can send messages to other dogs, invite them to be pup pals and send virtual gifts!

“People view their dogs as extensions of their personalities,” says Kevin Fisher, co-owner of happytails Canine Spa Line. “If the owner is into sports, they’ll have a sporty dog. If the owner is into fashion, the dog will have a wardrobe. With someone around who likes all the same things as you do, why look any further? You’ve found you perfect Valentine.”

Some dog owners are taking the trend even further as the differences between humans and canines disappear. “People are looking for ways not only to bond with their dog, but to humanize them,” Fisher said. “Just look at Dogster.com which is basically the Facebook for dogs. Dogs can send messages to other dogs, invite them to be pup pals and send virtual gifts!”

So according to almost 3 million* Americans who actually buy Valentine’s gifts for their dogs apparently it is perfectly acceptable to date your dog this Valentine’s Day.

Here are a few things that you can share with your special furball this Valentine’s Day:

• If a movie on the couch is your plan for Valentine’s Day forget the popcorn! Sammy Snacks Treats are created especially for owners to enjoy with their dog.
• Feeling a little dry? bowWOW Butter Balm is an indulgent shea butter treatment for relieving dry cracked noses and paws. This blissful balm will also moisturize your dry lips, elbows, cuticles and heels (and it makes a great massage cream should you be in the mood)
• Maybe you can’t share clothes with your dog, but you can match. Check out the hip fashions from Ruff Ruff & Meow.
• If you want to take a hike on Valentine’s day, now you and Fido can sip from the same Water Bottle. One bottle, two separate water supplies! Keeps you and your pet properly hydrated on those long hikes!
• Is your dog’s bad breath and gas becoming a little overwhelming? Dog Smog Remedy to the rescue. This all natural breath freshener and digestive solution is sugar-free and delicious to both hounds and humans.
• The classic yoga pose, downward facing dog, has taken on a whole new meaning. Why not spend Valentine’s Day getting even closer to your innerdog with some at home Yoga (or Doga). Check out “Doga: Yoga for Dogs“
• If you’re really feeling frisky, why not share your bed with Fido this Valentine’s Day? According to Sealy, the mattress company, 67% of US pet owners regularly sleep with their dog or cat.
• You and your little loved one can be matching fashionistas in co-ordinating newsboy caps and scarves from Barking Baby. Leopard fur, menswear plaids, and bold florals are just a few of the prints available.
• Okay, maybe this isn’t YOUR first choice in movies, but in every successful relationship there is compromise. On movie night why not also pop in the Movie for Dogs. Your dog will love it.
• So a night out on the town is in store for you this Valentine’s Day? Put on your hills, your little black dress and sprtiz on your dog’s Shimmering Mist. It can be sprayed onto your hair, décolletage or any other body part. This subtle glitter spray contains natural silk proteins that moisturize and restructure the coat (or hair), leaving it silky, smooth and glittery.

*According to the 2007/08 APPMA National Pet Owners Survey
                                                            

(Side Bar)

Top 10 Reasons Why Your Dog is a Better Companion than your Partner

1. You were sober when you picked out your dog (no beer goggles)

2. Your dog doesn’t argue about what movie to see

3. Your dog isn’t looking at other humans wishing she was theirs

4. Your dog likes all the food you cook and always comes back for seconds

5. Your dog is always happy to see you, even if you look like crap

6. If you dog could speak he would say “of course I love to cuddle”

7. When you ask your dog “Do these pants make my butt look big?” he’s smart enough not to tell you the truth

8. Your dog doesn’t hold grudges

9. Your dog will listen to you for hours without interrupting

10. No matter what, your dog is always up for a little heavy petting