Cloud K9 ®

2010-06-25T17:46:00.001-07:00

Happy

Take Your Dog to Work Day!

A Trio of Colors (Hydrangea)

2010-06-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

The colors of flowers in some species of hydrangeas are based

on the conditions of the soil in which they are growing.

Blue flowers are the result of acidic soil.

Neutral soils may result in very pale cream flowers.

Pink or purple flowers are found in alkaline soils.

Some flowers have multiple colors...
like the one shown above from my Mom's hydrangea bush.
Carole
[Photos and text copyright Cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Hydrangeas In Bloom

2010-06-23T23:03:00.000-07:00

The hydrangea bush at my Mom's house is in bloom and it is spectacular!

These are lovely blue-colored blooms!

Each bloom is perfectly amazing!

Carole

2010-06-22T00:12:00.000-07:00

Mushrooms

2010-06-21T23:59:00.001-07:00

These mushrooms are growing on a tree.

They almost look like they came from another planet!

Carole

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Bunny in the Garden

2010-06-16T23:18:00.000-07:00

I got a photo of the little fellow that has been living in the garden.

Just born this year...he (or she) is no longer a baby, but an adolescent bunny rabbit!

Carole

Daylily

2010-06-15T22:59:00.001-07:00

The Daylily bloomed for the first time.

I am pleasantly surprised by the result!

Carole

More Animal Rescue Messages from the USPS

2010-06-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

In addition to their "Adopt a Shelter Pet" Stamps featured in our earlier blog, the USPS is also using a special mark with the Animal Rescue theme.

This special mark (used as the cancelation mark on items being mailed) features a dog and cat along with the words "Animal Rescue."

Two paws up to the USPS for continuing to promote the message of adopting shelter pets!

Carole

The Pond in the Woods (Part 5)

2010-06-11T20:58:00.001-07:00

These fabulous water liles are just beautiful!

What a peaceful and serene place.

As I turn to leave, I look back over my shoulder

and see someone waching me.

Almost looks like he is smiling!

Goodbye, Frogs! See you soon! :-)

Carole

The Pond in the Woods (Part 4)

2010-06-10T23:34:00.001-07:00

The frogs! They are everywhere!

Here is one big fellow!

There are 2 frogs in this picture!

They must be having a great time in this pond!

I feel like Kermit the Frog should appear at any moment!

(To be continued in tomorrow's blog...)

Carole

The Pond in the Woods (Part 3)

2010-06-09T23:58:00.001-07:00

The first things I see moving are the mallard ducks.

Two male mallard ducks...swimming and "duck"ing

their heads underwater to find food.

I also see a turtle with his head just above the water...

He sees me, too, and quickly submerges!

I hear the frogs...where are they?

(To be continued in tomorrow's blog...)

Carole

The Pond in the Woods (Part 2)

2010-06-08T22:28:00.001-07:00

I have reached the pond...

What a peaceful place.

The beautiful trees surrounding the pond are reflected in the water.

I hear the bull frogs...can I actually locate any?

(To be continued in tomorrow's blog...)

Carole

A Walk in the Woods

2010-06-07T19:53:00.001-07:00

On a nice June day, I went for a walk in the woods near my house. My destination is the pond. There were some beautiful scenes along the way, so I stopped to take a few photos.

These white flowers are just lovely.

The tiger lilies are so vibrant!

I am almost to the pond...I can hear the bull frogs! (To be continued in tomorrow's blog...)

Carole
[Photos and text copyright Cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Update on the Fish Pond

2010-06-04T23:54:00.001-07:00

After the new liner was put in the fish pond (see previous blog)

various aquatic plants were added to the pond.

This blooming water hyacinth is enjoying its new home.

Carole

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Redbud in Bloom ~ Before and After

2010-05-25T21:42:00.001-07:00

This is a "before and after" of sorts.

A previous post showed the Redbud tree in bloom with lovely flowers.

Seed pods developed where the flowers had been!

Carole

Spirea in Bloom

2010-05-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

The Spirea are in bloom!

The flowers are so delicate!

Carole

2010-05-21T23:15:00.001-07:00

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2010-05-20T23:08:00.001-07:00

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Update on Stamps to the Rescue

2010-05-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

On April 30th, the US Post Office released the "Stamps to the Rescue" to raise awareness of the need to adopt pets from animal shelters. I bought my stamps when they first came out.

Today I inquired at the post office about buying more of these stamps, and the clerk told me that they had sold out of them within about five days!

This is great news that so many people are interested in spreading the word about adopting shelter pets!

My branch of the post office expects to have the stamps back in stock in a day or so.

Carole

2010-05-18T20:44:00.001-07:00

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Wisteria (Lane)

2010-05-11T21:16:00.001-07:00

I love Wisteria...the vines with these purple flower are so lovely!

Yes, this is the flower that the famous TV show is named after...

Wisteria Lane!

Carole

2010-05-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

Which bag of treats would you select
for your dog?

Packaging can have a huge impact on a potential customer’s perception of the product; using the right type of packaging can help increase sales!

Whether for treats from a dog biscuit bakery, a fund raiser for a rescue group, or pet-theme products at a craft show, Cello Bags are our most popular packaging product! (Cello is pronounced “sell-o” like cellophane…not “chell-o” like the musical instrument.)

The two most basic aspects of packaging are:
1) Protection: to protect the product (e.g., from moisture and dirt)
2) Containment: to hold multiples of the same product (e.g., a dozen dog biscuits).

But our cello treat bags don’t stop there…they provide many more benefits! How does your packaging stack up against our list below?

Food Safe: our cello bags meet FDA requirements for direct food contact.

Shelf Appeal: eye-catching packaging makes the product stand out and alerts the customer that a pet-theme product is inside the package.

Transparency: products are visible through the packaging (which isn’t possible with cardboard or paper containers).

Reclosable: cello bags can be reclosed after opening (which isn't possible with shrink wrap).
[See Accessories (below) for products to close the cello bags.]

Versatile: cello bags can be used to hold a variety of products/items...from dog treats, to goodie bags with party favors for childrens' birthday parties, to other types of products. (For example, we use these bags to package the handmade dog-shaped cookie cutters sold on our website.)

Dogs AND Cats Welcome: in addition to the "dog and bones" pattern cello bags (photo at beginning of this blog post), we also offer the black paw prints pattern which is appropriate for both dogs and cats!

Seasonal Selection: the red and green paw print cello bags are a great choice for the “howl-iday” season.

Accessories: the black paw print ribbon and the gold seal with black paw print  wrap things up with a fun touch!

Packaging speaks to your customers about the product inside. What is your packaging saying?

SPECIAL OFFER! Free shipping within the US on any $25 (or more) order of packaging products at Cloudk9.com
Just enter: blogwrap    as the coupon code in the online shopping cart. Orders must be placed by May 31st, 2010 for free shipping.

It's a Wrap!

Carole
[Text and photos copyright Cloudk9.com   All rights reserved.]

Happy Mother's Day! A Rose for the Moms

2010-05-07T18:03:00.000-07:00

This Sunday is Mother's Day!

For all the Moms out there (whether you are a Mom of 2-legged or 4-legged kids)...

Happy Mother's Day!

This Rose is for you!

Carole

CloudK9.com

Rhododendron in Bloom

2010-05-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

The flowers are just gorgeous this year. Maybe it is because of the recent rains that we had. Whatever the reason, I want to share this beautiful Rhododendron.

Carole
[Text and photo copyright cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Celebrate with the Chihuahua Cookie Cutter!

2010-05-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

I made this cute Chihuahua Cookie using the

Chihuahua cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above. (It helps to use a toothpick for these features.)
5. Add the dog collar with red decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip (or an icing writer) as shown in the photo above.
6. Let the icing dry.

Adios!

Carole

We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

National Pet Week

2010-05-04T20:22:00.001-07:00

This is National Pet Week!

Per the Pet Week website, "National Pet Week was jointly founded in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA, and is widely celebrated throughout the United States and other parts of the world. In 2010, National Pet Week is celebrated from May 2-8."

The Pet Week website also explains that: "The goals of National Pet Week are to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate the human-animal bond, and promote public awareness of veterinary medicine."

So do something extra special for your pet(s) this week!

For more information, visit www.petweek.org/index.cfm

Carole

Things are Just Ducky!

2010-05-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

I saw a pair of Mallard Ducks land in the neighbor's yard a few days ago. Now I see that the female duck is hanging out in the yard.

Is is correct to say that this duck

is pigeon toed? :-)

When she saw that I had some bread, she came running as fast as she could.

While she doesn't have the vivid geen coloring as does the

male mallard duck , I think she is very pretty!

Things are just ducky!

Carole

"Adopt a Shelter Pet" Stamps to Raise Awareness

2010-04-30T22:17:00.001-07:00

Starting on April 30, 2010, the US Postal Service will be selling stamps to raise awareness of the need to adopt Shelter Pets.

The USPS website states that the goal is for "more Americans to know about the millions of shelter pets that need good homes. Nearly half of the animals that enter animal shelters are euthanized. Many of these cats and dogs would have made a wonderful pet...if only given the chance."

They say: "You can make a difference. Adopt a pet, volunteer at a shelter, or just get the word out by buying these stamps."

There are 10 different stamps. All of these pets had been homeless. At the time the pictures were taken, all but one had been adopted! Featured on the stamps are:
Teddy Jack Russell Terrier
Willow Maltese Cat
Trevor Yellow Lab
Bianca Calico
Buddy Golden Retriever
Peaches Gray White and Tan Cat
Bindi Sue Aussie Shepherd
Frankie Black White and Tan Cat
Jake Boston Terrier
Lucas Orange Tabby

The USPS website offers a variety of products including stamps, mugs, artwork and notecards featuring these pets.

Ellen DeGeneres (Animal Advocate and co-owner of Halo Pet Food) is the spokeperson for this campaign. Halo will be donating meals to feed 1 Million shelter pets. You can visit stampstotherescue.com to see an update of how many meals Halo has donated to feed homeless pets.

I have my stamps! Do you have yours?

Carole

2010-04-29T22:13:00.001-07:00

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Mother's Day Gift Idea!

2010-04-23T22:17:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day is a little more than 2 weeks away! Cloud K9 ® has a great gift idea for Mom...especially for Dog Moms!

Let Mom keep a picture of her favorite kids and furkids in one of our locket necklaces.

Our locket necklaces are made from vintage molds and are available in over 35 different breeds of Dogs, plus a Paw Print, Rabbit, Cat, or Horse (with horseshoe).

A great gift idea that is sure to be treasured for years to come!

Carole
Cloud K9

Happy Earth Day!

2010-04-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day!
Please take care of the Earth!
It's the only one we have!

Save the Fishies ~ Part 2

2010-04-21T23:24:00.001-07:00

We placed the liner in the pond. I was suprised that the liner was far, far heavier than it looked! Then we filled the pond with water (over 2,000 gallons)! YIKES!

As you can see, my friend reshaped the pond from its original "figure 8" shape to a "kidney bean" shape.

Then, the water needed to sit for 24 hours to adjust the temperature. Water coming out of the hose is cold at this time of year. Plus, chemicals (to remove chlorine, etc.) needed to be added to the water so it would be safe for the fish.

After 24 hours, the fish were ready to be transitioned to the pond. First, they were put in a plastic bag with their original pond water (that they were living in during the time in the smaller container) and floated in the pond to adjust them to the new temperature. Then, some new water from the pond needed to be put into the bag to adjust them to the new water. I think each of these steps was for about 15 or 30 minutes for each step. Note: Please consult an expert for the exact specifications of adjusting fish to a new location since these types of transitions can be fatal for fish.

Then, the fish were ready to be put into the pond! Everything went well! There were about 20 fish in all and ALL of them survived the move!

I can truly say the fish look so happy in the pond. Maybe they are happy to be out of the small container and in the pond again. Maybe they can tell they have more room to swim with the new shape of the pool. Who knows!?! But they were definitely swimming and playing joyfully!

Yes! Mission Accomplished! The fish are safe!

Carole
[Text and photos copyrighted. All rights reserved.]

Save the Fishies ~ Part 1

2010-04-20T23:40:00.001-07:00

My friend built a small pond in his backyard over 10 years ago. The pond is really cool with the fish swimming in it!

The pond liner has been leaking since last Fall...so the obvious was coming. Eventually the pond liner would need to be replaced...which means draining the pond and temporarily relocating the fish!

Lately, the water level in the pond was getting much lower, so I volunteered to help with the project to save the fishies (Koi and goldfish). The fish spend the winter in the pond, since it is deep enough for the fish to survive the cold Midwest winters by hunkering down in the bottom of the pond. It was important that we completed the project before the temperatures get too hot.

Replacing the pond liner is a major project! The fish needed to be caught with a net and relocated into another container (which has the original pond water and also an air pump to aerate the water). The water content and water temperature need to be very similar to that in the pond so they don't die.

Then, over 2,000 gallons of water needed to be drained from the pond!!! YIKES!

The sediment had to be removed (yes! I was in the bottom of the pond dredging out the sediment) and then we removed the liner. The pond has several different levels to allow for different types of water plants (which lives at different depths in the pond). This is what is looked like after the liner was removed:

This is Part 1! Stay tuned for Part 2!

Please Note: Fish need special conditions to survive while a pond is being fixed. Please consult an expert if you are relocating fish for this type of project.

Carole
[Text and photos copyrighted. All rights reserved.]

In the Pink

2010-04-19T21:53:00.001-07:00

These gorgeous pink Azaleas deserve to be seen!

They are fantastic!

The flowers this Spring are absolutely spectacular!

Carole

Cloud K9

Tulips

2010-04-16T19:42:00.001-07:00

Spring wouldn't be complete without the beautiful flowers that come from bulbs...like tulips!

A Trio of Tulips

This purple tulip is spectacular.

With its muliple petals, it almost doesn't even look like a tulip!

Carole

Reds and Pinks

2010-04-15T21:51:00.001-07:00

A few more lovely spring blooms in reds and pinks!

A beautiful Azalea to enjoy!

Friday's weather is supposed to be much cooler. Back to regular temperatures. It was fun while it lasted!

Carole

Flowers in White

2010-04-14T22:56:00.001-07:00

More flower pictures! Today's theme is Flowers in White!

The Dogwood Tree in bloom!

Another view!

From Viburnum......to Lily of the Valley.....a beautiful contrast with green foliage and white flowers!

Enjoy!

Carole

Can't Seem to Get Enough of the Spring Flowers!

2010-04-13T20:42:00.001-07:00

This weather for this week is also predicted to be amazing...with temperatures warmer than average for this time of year!

It seems like everywhere you look, the flowers are in bloom!

These wild violets look so sweet!

Happy Spring!
Carole
[Text and photo copyright CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Busy Bee

2010-04-12T19:12:00.001-07:00

Well, the little finches that were on the porch earlier, looking like they may build another nest, did not return. So apparently they are building their new house elsewhere.

However, a carpenter bee made an appearance! Yikes!
Talk about a busy bee!

Carole
[Text and photo copyright. All rights reserved.]

Trees in Bloom

2010-04-09T22:53:00.001-07:00

Although we are all enduring lots of pollen as the trees bloom in Spring, the trees are truly spectacular!

The plum-colored leaves and

delicate pink flowers

make this tree one of my favs!

I adore the beautiful flowers of the red bud tree.
Even the tree trunk has a profusion of blooms!

I hope that your Spring is as lovely as ours is in the Midwest!

Carole

More from the Garden

2010-04-08T23:16:00.001-07:00

Textures and patterns are always interesting elements in any garden.

This plant is called "Lamb's Ear." As you can see from the shape, the name is appropriate. In addition, the leaves also feel "furry" and soft! This texture makes the name even more appropriate!

Years ago, the Missouri Botanical Garden created a special garden for the blind. This plant was included in that garden because its texture appeals to the sense of touch.

This plant is a new addition to the garden as of last year.
A friend gave me some extra from his garden.

He calls it "Ribbon Grass." Likewise, this is an appropriate name since it is long and narrow like a ribbon.

I like the varigated pattern on the leaves of the Ribbon Grass.

While the Ribbon Grass and the Lamb's Ear are both variations of green and white, they are each very different...and add their own special charm to the garden.

Happy Spring to all the Green Thumbs...and Not So Green Thumbs out there!

Carole
[Text and pictures copyrighted. All rights reserved.]

Springtime Flowers!

2010-04-07T20:02:00.001-07:00

The weather continues to be absolutely gorgeous, here in the Midwest!

The Bleeding Heart Flowers are always some of my Spring favorites. There are 2 color variations in our garden:

Bleeding Heart ( Red )

Bleeding Heart ( White )

It's easy to see from the shape of the flowers why this lovely plant is called "Bleeding Heart."

Happy Spring!

Carole

2010-04-06T23:14:00.001-07:00

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A Lovely Week to Come

2010-04-05T15:08:00.001-07:00

The weather for this week is predicted to be incredibly nice (actually about 10 degrees warmer than average for this time of year).

The plants in the garden are coming out of their long hibernation!

Even the dog statue looks so different from the picture I posted in December, when it was dusted with snow!

This week, I will share photos from the garden. Stay tuned!

Have a wonderful Spring!

Carole

Hoppy Easter

2010-04-02T22:39:00.001-07:00

Paisley the Rabbit...our Easter Mascott

Hoppy Easter Everyone!

Carole
[Photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Can You Find the Bunny in the Photo?

2010-04-01T19:29:00.001-07:00

Can you find the sitting bunny in the photo below?
(Answer at very bottom of page.)

Carole
[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]
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Answer: April Fools! There is no bunny in this photo! :-)
See this previous blog post for the picture of the hidden bunny!

Spring is Here!

2010-03-31T16:40:00.001-07:00

Spring is in the here. The weather is beautiful...sunny, and temperatures in the 80's.

So what better time than for 2 little birds to look for a place for their new nest?

I heard a bird singing on the front porch and took a peek out the window. There was a purple finch and his mate. She flew to the grapevine wreath hanging on the porch and sat there. She seemed to be trying it out as a location for her nest. He flew up higher and then started singing again.

I did not see them later in the day, so I don't know if they found a better location or not.

I guess this is the same pair that built a nest on the porch late last Summer. They will be a topic of a future post. Here is a preview of the little baby birds from last year...

Happy Spring!

Carole

English Setter Cookie Cutter

2010-03-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

We are continuing our series on decorating cookies shaped like dogs...
Today, we feature a guest cookie decorator and model (@HankTheDoggy). Hank is an English Setter and his Mom, Erin, decorated cookies she made with our Setter cookie cutter.

She iced the cookies and then used mini chocolate chips to create the spots. (Note: since chocolate is toxic to dogs, these cookies are only for people to eat.) She also added a green collar with icing.

I think these cookies turned out great!
Two paws up for Hank's talented Mom...and Thanks to handsome Hank for being the English Setter model in the photo below!

Carole

[Text copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

We're In a Magazine!

2010-03-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

I am very excited that Cloud K9® Jewelry is featured in the current issue (Winter 2010) of CityDog Magazine. This magazine specializes in dog-related topics and is distributed mainly on the West Coast.

Photos: Our jewelry on Page 12...and a close-up of our Cloud K9® business card case, locket necklaces, and cuff bracelet as featured in the magazine.

Photos: The Cover of the Winter 2010 Issue....and me taking a break from reading the magazine.

Helping Animals: We just started a new program to help animals! Simply enter BFAS in the Comments Section of the online shopping cart, and we will donate 10% of the purchase price of the jewelry and business card cases to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

Click on any of the links below to see our exclusive handcrafted items:

Cloud K9® Pins and Bracelets

Cloud K9® Locket Necklaces

Cloud K9® Guardian Angel Dog Pins

Cloud K9® Business Card Cases

Enjoy,

Carole

If Your Cat Could Read...

2010-03-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

The St. Louis Public Library has a great monthly newsletter called Check It Out! (Get it? Check it out!)

This month they feature some books all about cats!

Here are the selections from their list:

The Natural Cat: The Comprehensive Guide to Optimum Care (by Anitra Frazier)

Smitten: A Kitten's Guide to Happiness (by Rachael Hale)

Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats (by T.S. Eliot and drawings by Edward Gorey)

Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World (by Vicki Myron)

The Cat Behavior Answer Book: Practical Insights & Proven Solutions for Your Feline Questions (by Arden Moore)

Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul: Stories of Feline Affection, Mystery, and Charm (by Jack Canfield)

Have you read any of these? Do you have any other suggestions to add to the list?

Carole

Deer Tracks

2010-03-25T15:51:00.001-07:00

A blog post of mine from this past Winter discussed footprints in the snow. This is the Spring version with hoof prints in the mud!

A friend of mine lives in the suburbs and occasionally sees deer in his yard. I believe they are White-Tailed Deer. The ground was very wet from the recent rains and, as a result, the deer tracks are clearly visible.

Next time I see Moose Tracks Ice Cream, I think this picture will come to mind! :-)

Carole
[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Spring in the Midwest

2010-03-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

After a long, cold winter, Spring has finally arrived in the Midwest!

Here is a quick "walk in the garden" with some of the first flowers to appear in Spring:

The Crocus and the Daffodil.

Plus, a little squirrel that was very interested in what was happening!

Enjoy!

Carole

[ Text and photos copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved. ]

Scottie Cookie Cutter (Miss Fancy Pants)

2010-03-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

I made this cute Scottish Terrier Cookie using the

Scottish Terrier cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

This is a little bit fancier of a Scottie cookie than is featured from our post on February 16, 2010,
so I named her "Miss Fancy Pants."
1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the black decorating icing to the edges of the cookie. Before the icing dries, add black sugar 'sprinkles' to give a sparkly effect. (If needed, you may want to lightly press the sugar into the icing with the back of a spoon for it to adhere better.) Let the icing dry.
4. Gently turn the cookie upside down to remove the excess sugar.
5. Use yellow decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip (or a yellow icing writer) to make a yellow oval for the eye. Let the icing dry. (If the sugar has not firmly adhered to the icing, you may need to remove the black sugar where you plan to place the eye, for the yellow icing to stick properly.)
6. Use black decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip (or a toothpick) to make a small black dot in the center of the yellow oval. Let the icing dry.
7. Use pink decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip (or a red icing writer) to make a small spot for the tongue as shown in the photo above. Let the icing dry.

Carole

We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and pictures copyright Carole of cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Basset Hound Cookie Cutter

2010-03-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

I made this cute Basset Hound Cookie using the

Basset Hound Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the black markings and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
5. Add the brown markings with chocolate decorating icing as shown in the photo above. (Note: Chocolate can be toxic to dogs, so these cookies are only for people to eat.)
6. Let the icing dry.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Can You Find the Hidden Bunny?

2010-03-19T15:00:00.001-07:00

You throw a ball and your dog chases it. This is known as prey drive. Many animals that are "prey" are aware of predators' instincts and "freeze" when they feel danger is near.

On our nature walk, a rabbit was sitting up as we approached. With house rabbits, this upright position is known as "periscoping" (raising their level to see up higher). I was surprised at how long this little bunny sat in the grass frozen in the periscope position...but, he knew that we were watching him. Can you see him in the photo below?

Finally, when we turned, he lowered himself and sat very still. It was still very difficult to see him when he was not moving. I must say he has excellent camouflage!

HINT: See the arrow in the picture below to locate the hiding bunny!
Carole

[Text and photos copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

In Search of the Elusive Barred Owl

2010-03-18T20:26:00.001-07:00

A few days ago, a little before 5 am, I heard the hoot of the Barred Owl. There is no mistaking this bird's call...often described as sounding like "Who cooks for you?"

Two days later, as evening approached, I heard the hoot of the Barred Owl while a friend and I were sitting on the deck.

So, my friend and I took off for the nature area near my house to see if we could spot the owl. When we arrived, a woman with binoculars was leaving. I asked if she had seen the owl, and she said "Yes!" She described in detail where the owl was sitting. So my friend and I entered the woods hoping for a sighting.

Within about the first 60 seconds, I spotted a Red-Tailed Hawk in a tree. Unfortunately, the lighting was not in my favor for taking a crisp photo...but when the bird flew away, we knew for sure it was a Red Tail.

As we approached the pond, there was a pair of Mallards. The male lifted his head, realized we were "OK" and went back to sleep.

Finally, we approached the area where the owl was supposed to be. Try as we might, we never spotted the owl.

Hopefully, I will get to see this very vocal owl...if so, I will post the photo!

Carole
[Text and photos copyright Carole of Cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Dog Cookie Cutter Series: St Patrick's Day (Irish Setter)

2010-03-17T18:14:00.001-07:00

What would be better for St. Patrick's Day than an Irish Dog Cookie? Today we feature a whimsical Irish Setter cookie to celebrate the day, made with the Irish Setter Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Outline the dog with green decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip or use an icing writer. Add the green shamrocks and collar as shown in the photo above.
5. Let the icing dry.

Carole

We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Bouvier des Flandres Cookie Cutter

2010-03-16T19:23:00.001-07:00

I made this great Bouvier des Flandres Cookie using the

Bouvier Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the black decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.

It's just that easy!
Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Top 10 Reasons for Making Your Own Dog Shaped Cookies

2010-03-15T21:13:00.001-07:00

10. The cookies are fresh!

9. Have fun in your kitchen!

8. You can make cookies that look exactly like Your Dog!

7. Learn a new hobby!

6. The cookies are a great gift for friends! They are also great for Dog Shows, (winners of Best of Breed, Best in Show), National Specialties, Craft Shows, Dog Obedience Graduations, New Puppy Adoptions, etc.).

5. Enhance your creativity!

4. Have the satisfaction of saying "I did it myself!"

3. Bond with friends or family members...it's a great way to spend some time together!

2. Impress your friends with your talents!

And the Number One Reason to make your own dog shaped cookies....

1. Save Some Dough! To Buy PreDecorated Dog Sugar Cookies can cost from $39 to $51 PER DOZEN (not including shipping)! Oh My...it doesn't cost nearly that much to make and decorate the cookies yourself!

Happy Baking!

We have over 80 different breeds of dog shaped cookie cutters on our website.
Carole

Dog Cookie Cutters: A Week of Poodles (Day 5 Rainbow Poodles)

2010-03-12T23:00:00.001-08:00

How about making Poodles in a wide variety of colors! These pictures show just a few of many possible colors. These would be great for a birthday party! (Blue poodle is shown on the right => )

Green Poodle Pink Poodle

Yellow Poodle Purple Poodle

I made these cute Poodle Cookies using the

Poodle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

4. Add the outlining and eye using decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip, or an icing writer in the color of your choice as shown in the photo above.

Dog Cookie Cutters: A Week of Poodles (Day 4 Chocolate Poodle)

2010-03-11T20:48:00.001-08:00

Just by using chocolate icing rather than white icing, it changes the whole look of the cookie!

I made this cute Chocolate Poodle Cookie using the

Poodle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

Dog Cookie Cutters: A Week of Poodles (Day 3 Apricot Poodle)

2010-03-10T20:47:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Apricot Poodle Cookie using the

Poodle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Toast grated coconut according to directions on the package.
4. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and (optional) quickly add the eye and nose with black decorating icing...do not let the white icing dry!
5. Gently press the toasted coconut into the wet white decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
6. Let the icing dry.
7. Gently turn the cookie over to remove the excess coconut.

Carole

We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Dog Cookie Cutters: A Week of Poodles (Day 2 White Poodle in Show Cut)

2010-03-09T23:09:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Poodle Cookie using the

Poodle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and quickly add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above...do not let the white icing dry!
4. Gently press the grated coconut into the wet white decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
5. Let the icing dry.
6. Gently turn the cookie over to remove the excess coconut.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Dog Cookie Cutters: A Week of Poodles! (Day 1)

2010-03-08T20:40:00.001-08:00

This week, we will show 5 different ways to decorate the same cookie!
We offer very simple and more difficult designs. You choose the level of difficulty you want to use for decorating your cookies. Make them simple or complex. Or use these ideas as a starting point and let your creativity take over when you are decorating cookies. Most important: have fun!

I made this cute Poodle Cookie using the

Poodle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.

2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.

3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.

4. If you like, you can add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo to the right.

Border Collie Cookie Cutter

2010-03-05T21:52:00.001-08:00

In honor of the great dog frisbee show in our previous blog post, we are featuring the Border Collie cookie today!

I made this cute Border Collie Cookie using the

Border Collie Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

Recycling Reaches a New Level

2010-03-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

Recycled Frisbee

Recycling reaches a new level...with high flying frisbees! Disc-Connected K9s has a clever recycling idea! Some of the frisbees they sell contain pieces of recycled frisbees! (The streaks of color in the frisbee shown above are the pieces of recycled frisbees.)

Disc-Connected K9s also sells what they call "jaw-tographed" frisbees which show the teeth marks of the canine stars. They can even tell which dog used the frisbee based on the teeth marks! Amazing!

I love "going green!" Just another reason to feel good about this great group of amazing frisbee dogs (many of which are rescues)!

For more information visit k9frisbee.com

(I do not receive any compensation for sharing this information.)

Carole

Cloud K9

Disc-Connected K9s ~ Frisbee Dogs

2010-03-03T17:17:00.001-08:00

Disc-Connected K9's performed at the St. Louis Home Show!

Some of their dogs are World Frisbee Dog Championships Finalists
and it is easy to see why...!

This dog is literally flying through the air...

and many of the dogs are rescued dogs!

If I remember correctly, this is Easy Rider.
He had been abused by his previous owner...

(I believe his hind leg was broken in 3 places and

the plate and pins are still in his leg).

Yet, he is a superb athlete!

(See performance photo above.)

Two paws up to Lawrence and his wife for the love and time they devote to their canine kids!
This is an amazing group! If they come to your area, be sure to see them!
For more information visit k9frisbee.com

Carole
(I do not receive any compensation for reviewing this group.)
Cloud K9

Balloon Garden

2010-03-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

The St. Louis Home and Garden Show featured a garden made entirely of balloons.

The garden was designed and produced by Sammy J Balloon Creations.

The 600 square foot garden had many flowers,

some of which were almost 6 feet tall.

A fun and clever gardening idea!

Carole

cloudk9.com

Adopt a Guinea Pig Month

2010-03-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

March is Adopt a Guinea Pig Month!

Click Here for: Guinea Pig Cookie Cutter at Cloud K9 ®

Guinea Pigs are wonderful pets, if cared for properly. They live an average of four to five years, but may live as long as eight years.

This link provides some questions to decide if a Guinea Pig is the right pet for you => http://cavycare.net/aspets.php

You can find Guinea Pigs living in shelters or rescues through petfinder.com and on this page => Guinea Pig Rescue Organizations

Guinea Pigs are very vocal animals! So, as the Guinea Pig would say, "Wheeek! Wheeek!"

Carole
cloudk9.com

A Sneak Peek at a Frisbee Dog Star

2010-02-26T18:01:00.001-08:00

I went to the Home and Garden Show today and will have a great story about frisbees dogs and dog rescue for next week's blog!

The dogs at the frisbee show were amazing.

Here is a sneak peek at one of the stars (a Border Collie, of course):

Have a great weekend!
Carole

Wheaten Cookie Cutter (Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Cookie Cutter)

2010-02-25T22:12:00.000-08:00

I made this cute Collie / Sheltie Cookie using the

Wheaten Terrier cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Toast grated coconut according to directions on the package.
4. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and quickly add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above...do not let the white icing dry!
5. Gently press the toasted coconut into the wet white decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
(I put slightly darker coconut on the ear and muzzle area.)
6. Let the icing dry.
7. Gently turn the cookie over to remove the excess coconut.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and pictures copyright Carole of cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

If Your Dog Could Read...

2010-02-24T23:07:00.000-08:00

The St. Louis Public Library has a great monthly newsletter called Check It Out! (Get it? Check it out!)

This month they feature some books and a DVD all about dogs!

Here are the selections from their list:

The Wolf in the Parlor: The Eternal Connection Between Humans and Dogs (by Jon Franklin)

101 Dog Tricks: Step-By-Step Activities to Engage, Challenge, and Bond with Your Dog (by Kyra Sundance and Chalcy)

Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know (by Alexandra Horowitz)

Hotel for Dogs (DVD) (I have seen this. Very cute...but some sad spots: have a Kleenex ready)

The Art of Racing in the Rain (by Garth Stein)

Dog Joy: The Happiest Dogs in the Universe (by the editors of The Bark)

Have you seen or read any of these? Do you have any other suggestions to add to the list?

Carole

Landseer Newfoundland Cookie Cutter

2010-02-23T14:32:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Landseer Newfoundland Cookie using the

Newfoundland Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the black markings and nose with black decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip as shown in the photo above.
(I put a tiny bit of black icing on the back of a spoon and lightly dabbed it on the muzzle area for added detail.)
5. Let the icing dry.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Newfoundland Cookie Cutter

2010-02-22T20:29:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Newfoundland Cookie using the

Newfoundland Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

Akita Cookie Cutter

2010-02-19T22:52:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Akita Cookie using the

Akita Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the brown marking with chocolate decorating icing as shown in the photo above. Let icing dry. (Note: Chocolate can be toxic to dogs, so these cookies are only for people to eat.)
5. Add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
6. Let the icing dry.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Pointer Cookie Cutter

2010-02-18T22:41:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Pointer Cookie using the

Pointer Dog Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the black spots, eye, ear and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above. (It can help to use a toothpick for small details.)
5. Let the icing dry.

Carole

We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Great Pyrenees / Kuvasz Cookie Cutter

2010-02-17T20:03:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Great Pyrenees / Kuvasz Cookie using the

Great Pyrenees / Kuvasz cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

Scottie Dog Cookie Cutter ( Scottish Terrier )

2010-02-16T19:50:00.001-08:00

Today's post is in honor of Sadie, the Scottie, who won Best in Show yesterday at Westminster!

I made this cute Scottish Terrier Cookie using the

Scottish Terrier cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

Dog Show Award Ribbon Cookie Cutter

2010-02-15T19:33:00.001-08:00

In honor of the Westminster Best in Show Winner (Sadie the Scottie) today's blog provides the "how to" for the Dog Show Award Ribbon Cookie Cutter.

I made this cute Dog Show Award Ribbon cookie using the

Dog Show Award Ribbon Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog show award ribbon cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the blue decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry. (I mixed blue food coloring with white decorating icing.)
4. Add the yellow outlines (as shown in the photo above) with yellow decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip or use a yellow icing writer. Use the yellow icing to write '1st' in the center of the circle.
You could also write "Best in Show" instead of "1st Place."
5. Let the icing dry.

These cookies would be great for dog shows, national specialties, agility trials, obedience trials, fun matches, dog obedience school graduation, etc.

Carole
We have over 80 different styles of dog and dog theme cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Beagle Cookie Cutter

2010-02-12T22:51:00.001-08:00

The Best in Show Winner will be announced tomorrow at Westminster.

In honor of last year's winner...Uno, the Beagle, we are featuring the Beagle cookie!

I made this cute Beagle Cookie using the

Beagle Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
5. Add the brown spots with chocolate decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
(Or use melted, and slightly cooled, milk chocolate chips for the brown spots. I used the back of a small spoon to spread the chocolate. )
(Remember: that chocolate is toxic to dogs and these cookies are only for people.)
6. Let the icing dry.

Enjoy! Woof! Woof!

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of cloudk9.com All rights reserved.]

Valentine's Day Cookie ~ I Heart This Cookie!

2010-02-11T18:57:00.001-08:00

I made a special cookie just for Valentine's Day using the Chihuahua cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website. But you could use any of the more than 80 dog breed cookie cutters on our website.

To start...follow our blog instructions for the Chihuahua cookie cutter.

To make the hearts, I used a red "icing writer" tube and added hearts all over the body of the Chihuahua.

To make the hearts, I made 2 commas back to back:

Chihuahua Cookie Cutter

2010-02-10T14:16:00.003-08:00

I made this cute Chihuahua Cookie using the

Chihuahua cookie cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread the white decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry.
4. Add the eye and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above. (It helps to use a toothpick for these features.)
5. Add the dog collar with red decorating icing and a plastic decorating tip (or an icing writer) as shown in the photo above.
6. Let the icing dry.

Tomorrow, I will show how to make a dog cookie 'with heart' for Valentine's Day!

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

Airedale Cookie Cutter

2010-02-09T13:59:00.001-08:00

I made this cute Airedale Terrier Cookie using the

Airedale Terrier Cookie Cutter from our Cloud K9® website.

This cookie cutter can also be used to represent a Welsh Terrier, Lakeland Terrier or Irish Terrier!

1. Use the dog shaped cookie cutter to cut the cookie from the sugar cookie dough and bake according to your recipe or package instructions.
2. Let the cookie cool completely before icing it.
3. Spread chocolate decorating icing to the edges of the cookie and let it dry. (Or use melted milk chocolate chips, as I did for the cookie in the photo above, and let the chocolate harden after applying to the cookie.) (Remember: chocolate can be toxic to dogs, so these cookies are only for people.)
4. Add the black 'saddle' marking, eye, and nose with black decorating icing as shown in the photo above.
5. Let the icing dry.

Carole
We have over 80 different breeds of dog cookie cutters on our website.

[Text and photo copyright Carole of CloudK9.com All rights reserved.]

February is Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month

2010-02-08T17:40:00.001-08:00

February is Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month!

Rabbits are wonderful pets. Many people don't realize that rabbits can be litter box trained!

For more information on rabbits, visit The House Rabbit Society.

There are many great organizations that place rescued rabbits in new homes.

One place to check is petfinder.com Petfinder lists more than just cats and dogs! Under the "Animal" drop down menu, just select rabbit and enter your ZIP code.

You can adopt somebunny special! We adopted a rescued rabbit, Paisley, and we're glad we did!

Carole

The Beauty of Nature

2010-02-05T19:51:00.001-08:00

A year ago we went to Alton / Grafton, Illinois to watch the bald eagles. What was different during this visit from any other visit, was the weather! It was absolutely beautiful for being early February in the Midwest!

I will share this beautiful photo that captures the essence of the day...taken on the afternoon of February 6th 2009.

Enjoy!
Carole