Amy Shojai's Blog, page 122
January 7, 2013
Monday Mentions: Review Ops, Writerly Linkage & Pet-astic Shares!
Happy Monday! Lots of new subscribers (~~~waving paws) and so glad to have you. After all the holiday bounty, I’m feeling a bit piggy and over-stuffed, and yes–red eyes from trying to get everything done. Finally getting back into the swing of things, and have actually made some headway already on my 2013 writing goals.
Just so’s ya know, I typically I post here three days a week, mostly about puppy-licious or cat-astic info, and Monday combines lots of schtuff. Fair warning. I make up words, because sometimes there just aren’t dictionary-listed appropriate ones, and because I’m a writer and it’s what I do. 
Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week.
A couple of news-worthy items on my fictioning life. I am blessed with the most PAW-some readers of the LOST AND FOUND book who have loved the story and asked for more. I’ve even been interviewed on the radio about the book. I’m very pleased to tell you that there WILL be more! My editor has given me the go-ahead, and I’ll keep you posted on the progress of the sequel–oh, and if you have specific ideas about what you’d like to see in the next installment (more Shadow? more Macy? Details about September or Teddy or Combs?) please share!
FREE REVIEW COPIES OF LOST AND FOUND!
While I’ve quite a few (cough-cough-26-cough-cough) nonfiction titles published, fiction is new for me and it’s all about building readership. To a great extent, that happens through reviews. I also know it’s pricy to buy all the books that we’d want to read if’n the wallet overflowed with funds. You can get free books through Audible.com by signing up for a trial membership.
For print books I’ve stumbled upon a neato new site. Authors, pay attention, you’ll want to check this out–and so will all the voracious readers out there. StoryCartel allows readers/reviewers to connect with authors and my LOST AND FOUND is a featured title this month so you can get a review copy for free!
Enough about my books–here’s what you really came to read.
WRITER-ICITY SCTHUFF
Writing Foundation Series check out this blog from authors of The Weekend Novelist, thanks to Rachel Funk Heller for the link
Write Here, Write Now Book Retreat from my colleague Sheila Bonham. She says this retreat/workshop in March on Pawley’s Island, S. Carolina is, “- open to all levels with time for quiet reflection and writing, gatherings for feedback, optional readings in the evenings. The emphasis will be on prose (fiction, nonfiction) but poets are also welcome.”
Writer Beware Year-End Wrap If you don’t subscribe to this great blog, DO IT NOW! Ann Crispin and Victoria Strauss keep the writing world informed about nasty predators
Write for Medium.com the founders of Blogger have a new venture that may be up your writing alley
The Reinvented Writer on The Thrill Begins blog (a bit of how I turned failure into success)
Best Times to Tweet and soooo much more…
Submit to Random House’s Digital Imprint
Amazon “Gutting” B&N pretty strong language, that…earnings analysis of holiday shop-athon
WordPress Giveaway Plugin helps you choose winners for your give-aways
Jane Dystel Literary Agent on “new” publishing–adapt or die.
Goodreads Has 13 Million Users & 20 Million Book Reviews I’m just getting started over at GoodReads and wonder why I waited so long.
Improve Book Ranking with Proper Categories thanks to Leona DeRosa Bodie for the link
BookTrakr for tracking sales, reviews and more
For Script Writers/Movie Producers, one of my colleagues shared links to the following that may be helpful:
YouTube Creator Playbook It offers advice for programming, optimizing, and engaging with your online community.
How to Make A Web Series Ebook
PET-ASTIC SCHTUFF
Survey: Counting Ferrets from the American Ferret Association (and no, your ex-husband doesn’t count…)
Let Feral Cats Run Free some good news for a change!
Blessings for Animals these are lovely!
Humans & Animals: The Inevitable Bond an awesome Chicago conference coming up in July
Pam Denison Online Dog Training Schedule, on sale in January! check out her great books, too!
PUPPY CARE FACEBOOK CHAT 1/13/13 at 9:00 pm (EST) Judy Weiss on “The Dos and Don’ts to prevent unwanted behavior“
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Theater & Performance, Writing Advice & More Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, cat care, dog behavior dog care, free books, Lost And Found, publishing advice, writing advice, www.amyshojai.com
January 4, 2013
Cat Show, Cat Adoption & 13 Cat Videos!
I was supposed to be at the Houston Cat Show this weekend, but unfortunately the book store vendor had to cancel. So I’m getting my cat show fix vicariously with past year videos.
Cat lovers who have never attended a cat show should really make the effort. There’s something for everyone! It’s not just a beauty contest these days, although that is part of the attraction. Truly stunning cats of all shapes, sizes and fur-styles can be seen. The judges very carefully examine each pedigreed feline for structure, take into consideration the coat and color, AND the kitty temperament, to see how they stack up against the “breed standard.” The cats win lots of bright ribbons, and throughout the day as some cats are eliminated and others move forward, the competition becomes more exciting.
It’s not like a dog show where the canines run around a ring. Nope, the kitties are placed on a table in front of the judge and care is taken to disinfect in between judging to prevent any transmission of disease. That’s also why you’ll see signs on the show cages, “Don’t touch–I don’t bite but my human does!” Simply petting one cat and then the next can carry illness and spread problems, and even though these felines are in tip-top health, these cat lovers take no chances.
There are “championship” competitions for intact (able to breed) pedigree cats. But there also are “premiership” competitions–a championship category for cats that have been spayed or neutered! And there also are the “household pet” categories for kitties that have no registration papers but are gorgeous, healthy cat-next-door companions–maybe like your cat! These felines also can earn ribbons and become champions in their category.
I love it because you can talk to the cat show exhibitors about their cats, ask about the breeds and learn so much about the gorgeous felines. Cat names are to die for and the creativity involved in naming a particular cat–or decorating a show cage (so the kitties can’t see each other and get upset) is a true art.
Did you know that cats also do agility? It’s a bit different than the dog sport, but has become more and more popular. Kitties of course enjoy running tunnels and leaping vaults or otherwise showing their athleticism.
Many shows like the Houston Cat Club event also welcome shelters and rescue groups to come and offer on the spot adoptions. What a win-win for the cats and the people!
There also are fun dress up events, kitty fashion shows, and more at cat shows. Oh, and the vendors–I have found THE BEST BLING EVER at cat shows. Just saying…
Enjoy some of these videos from cat shows I’ve attended. And paws crossed, I’ll get back to another one soon.
Have you ever attended a cat show? What did you like best? How about your furry wonder, how would s/he do in the competition? Although I believe Seren-kitty is a show-stopper, she’s not a good candidate for being in public and handled by strangers, but many cats thrive on this fun family outing.
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Ask Amy Videos, Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, cat breeds, cat care, cat shows, cats, www.amyshojai.com
January 2, 2013
New Year’s Pet Resolutions
It’s 2013, wow. A new year is a time for reflection on the past, and resolutions for the future. My furry crew tells me it’s a good time to take stock of the past year from a pets’-eye-view, and the year to come.
The Magical-Dawg romped through the year and once again mystified the vet, this time with a “sterile abscess” and swollen face. He’s now six—and still keeps me on my toes.
Seren-kitty has reached the grand age of 15 and has become MORE active compared to last year. While she does sleep more, she now demands lap time (a first for her!) and wants more attention especially when it irks the dog. She’s now eating a therapeutic diet to help slow the progression of kidney insufficiency, and I see sprinkles of white in her black mask, her claws click when she walks (arthritis makes it hard to keep them hidden). Siamese tend to be one of the longest-lived cat breeds so I’m counting on having another decade with the wee beastie!
So here are New Year’s Resolutions from Magic and Seren, with commentary by Amy.
Magic: “I will teach my humans to read my mind when I stare into their eyes.”
Amy: He knows many words but hasn’t figured out how to articulate. So I resolve to better guess what he’s telling me.
Seren: “I will train my humans to make laps available ALL THE TIME.”
Amy: She insists on lap time each evening, but doesn’t quite understand why she can’t sit on the laptop computer. So I resolve to schedule quitting time earlier to provide for kitty lap-sitting requirements.
Magic: “I will kill all squeakers and chew sticky-out wrong parts on toys.”
Amy: He amputates teddy-bear ears, steals cat toys, and ends up with sparkly poop. I resolve to find a Magic-proof squeaky stuffed toy—been looking for years now. Same resolution as last year. *sigh*
Seren: “I will guard Amy’s lap and chase the (spit) dawg away from MY human.”
Amy: She particularly enjoys late night harassing, and especially teasing the dog to sniff by rolling on the floor—and then punishing him for the nose poke. I resolve to keep Magic corralled so that Seren can enjoy her rock-around-the-clock antics for as long as she continues to want to race.
Magic: “I will grab and stack every Frisbee in the house and play keep-away from Amy. Unless we go for a car ride.”
Amy: Magic adores playing Frisbee fetch. So far he’s managed to stack 8 at once and carry them, and insists that HE carry them all—but sometimes decides to play keep away and will only return if tempted by the car horn signaling a ride.
Seren: “I will meow and cry REALLY REALLY LOUD until Amy stops hiding.”
Amy: Seren’s age means her hearing isn’t so good and has trouble hearing and finding us. She’ll call loudly (especially late at night) as she searches for us. I resolve to ensure she can ALWAYS find us easily, by answering her cries no matter how busy I might be.
Seren: “I will train Amy the right way to play with the feather toys!”
Amy: Seren used to enjoy fishing pole lures but Magic gets frustrated he can’t play, too, and barks—which takes the joy out of her game. This past year, she’s stopped wanting to chase so much (arthritis strikes again!) but still loves her collection of feather wands. I resolve to keep a feather wand available at hand, for Seren’s face-rubbing, body-petting pleasure.
Magic: “I will chase any $%^&! coyote that dares stomp on my property.”
Amy: Magic has 13-acres he patrols each day, and carefully baptizes any coyote evidence to ensure critters know he’s the biggest dawg around. I resolve to keep him safe from marauding critters—no matter how much he wants to chase and sniff.
Seren: “I will sleep more, hiss less. Even around the dog—he’s not worth the energy.”
Amy: Over the past year Seren has become much more tolerant of rude dog noses, and stands her ground. I resolve to make sure she’s always the “top cat” in our home—after all, she was here first.
Magic: “I will go for a ride forever!”
Amy: Magic continues his love affair with the Magic-Mobile. Thank goodness the car keys are out of reach. I resolve to give Magic a car ride at least every other day, pending good weather.
Seren: “I will train Amy there’s more to nine lives than paw-tapping and staring at a boxy computer-thing. Like lap time snuggles. And whisker-kisses.”
Magic: “I will train Amy that sharing treats is a very-good-thing. So are tummy rubs.”
Amy: I resolve to listen to my furry wonders. What about you?
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai. www.amyshojai.com, cat behavior, cat care, dog care, dog training, New Years, pet resolutions, resolutons
December 31, 2012
Thank You Jillian Dodd!
Don’t you just love surprises?
YA author phenom Jillian Dodd has no idea that 99 authors are blogging about her today or that reader bloggers have jumped on board too to help us thank her for what she has done for us.
Publishing today has lots more challenges than when I first started writing books (mumble-mumble) years ago, and it takes a village–and a mentor–to help figure how what to do. Jill not only learned on her own, but then SHARED hard-won expertise with other writers. Those who follow my blog know how I love mentoring and mentors, and Jillian has made it happen not only for herself but for the rest of us.
So this blog is a ginormous purrring THANK YOU! Here’s why.
Jillian devised a marketing plan while chatting to other writers about the best way to bring their books to the attention of the reading public. And then she opened up the promo and invited a boatload of authors–many first time writers–to join a December 21 promo to sell 99 EBooks for 99 cents.
You betcha, I joined the gang–even though my kitten book was the only nonfiction title in the group. No worries, Jillian gave it some extra purr-fect attention because it was the only nonfiction title. But Jill did that for ALL of us, and found extra ways to shout out to make sure everyone got the attention. She’s just that kind of person. And she offered easy cut-and-paste instructions how to make the promotion work, all of us 99-strong singing from the virtual rooftops about our combined efforts with Jill conducting the orchestra.
So what happened? Drum roll please…
At the end of the 21st December, ten of us were in the top 100 in the Kindle store. By this time Amazon had joined the bookish chorus adding us with the Kindle Daily Deal and the majority of books’ rankings soared. Many authors sold hundreds of books and/or were in the top five of their specific category genres. My own nonfiction kitten book rose to #1 in two cat-egories and in the top 10 in two more, and even a week later is holding at #2! Readers were ecstatic, authors were excited and Jillian stayed up with virtually no sleep for forty-eight hours to make sure the whole thing went smoothly and to keep sharp eyes on the numbers.
And let me tell you it was meow-velous for all involved!
How do you thank an author for helping give your own books a boost? Well, you return the furry favor, of course. So back to her books!
Did you guys ever watch Gossip Girl? Or Beverly Hills 90210 in the early days? If you enjoyed those, you’re going to love the steamy Keatyn Chronicles. Readers have gone wild for Keatyn and her complicated life, never mind her even more complex love life. It’s not just YA readers reading these books, either. With guy characters readers describe as “drool worthy,” fans post photos of who they think should play each “hot guy” in a film or television series. Book one is Stalk Me and it has garnered over 138 five star reviews. Kiss Me is the next book in the series with more to come.
Learn more about Jillian Dodd at her website, an all around terrific lady and great author. You can find her at GoodReads, too.
HAPPY NEW YEAR, JILLIAN–AND MAY 2013 bring WONDERFUL things for you!
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Uncategorized, Writing Advice & More Tagged: Amy Shojai, Jillian Dodd, writing advice, www.amyshojai.com
Monday Mentions: Looking Back & Looking Ahead
Wow, can you see this nervous tic at the corner of my right eye? It developed last Thursday and has only now quieted due to the therapeutic virtual scribblings for this blog. Who knew blogging would become so addictive?! And I gave myself and my human (and furry) family a gift of taking most of last week off with only one blog on Christmas day. Instead of blogging, I read. Baked. Ate too much. I reviewed 2012. Oh, and plotted for 2013.
This was a banner year for my writing. Three new ComPETability nonfiction titles, my first audio book, and my debut thriller LOST AND FOUND were all published. KURVES, THE MUSICAL was produced to rave reviews. And celebrated the 20th Anniversary founding of the Cat Writers Association (I can’t be that old!). But best of all, I connected with more readers and writer colleagues than ever before–me helping mentor some newer writers, and being mentored in return by y’all–and that really makes me purr as I look ahead to making more great connections.
I don’t do well with resolutions, although this Wednesday you’ll hear from the Magical-Dawg and Seren-Kitty about THEIR resolutions (with my comments ). However, the writer-icty this past year has taken off in a good way, and I do much better with deadlines and to-do lists. So rather than resolutions, I’ve put together my 2013 goals and then calendared the steps needed to accomplish those goals. For me, if it ain’t on the calendar, it doesn’t exist. Here’s my big item short list for 2013, not necessarily in order:
Record more audio books and publish. Complete Kitten Care audio is already available, Lost And Found thriller was JUST RELEASED TODAY!
Write Hide And Seek (sequel to the thriller)
Get the ComPETablity books into print
Update and release The Purina Encyclopedia of Cat Care (including a new title tbd)
Write Complete Puppy Care (companion to the kitten book)
Finish script and orchestrate music for Strays, The Musical with my co-author
Continue regular weekly newspaper column, blogs (with new Ask Amy videos) and puppies.about.com content
Maybe a bit ambitious? Or not enough? Heck, probably should also include “spend more time with family/fur kids” cuz like I said, if it’s not on the calendar it won’t happen. I also have to remember to cross off the “away” days because I’m scheduled to speak so far at three writer conferences and also will be attending the Western Veterinary Conference.
Okay, your turn. I won’t ask about resolutions–but do you have a 2013 to-do list? Has your calendar started to fill up yet? Mine has highlighter markings in a rainbow and I’m running out of new colors.
Onward to the linky love list! And I’ve got nearly two weeks’ worth after taking time off. Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Please scroll down for some silly, fun, and moving videos, too.
WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF
Mark Coker (Smashwords) 2013 Publishing Predictions
Toxoplasmosis & Mental Illness this is old news (and a bit misleading) in the “cat world” but could be great plot complication for writers. Be advised most “human” cases result from you eating undercooked meat, not from interaction with your cat.
Obsolete Words this is a fun list, thanks to Darlene Arden for the link
Random House Gives $5000 Bonuses to 5000+ Employees If that first link didn’t give you a headache, this one sure will
Screenplay Writers Website a new online magazine resource, looks interesting
Sounds Odd? tips for audio book voicings
Building Direct Channels to Readers some tips on newsletters
Rachel Gardner Literary Agent has lots of good advice on her site
Tips for Picking Up the Pace from the always savvy Jodie Renner
10 Rules for Writing About Cops lots of good stuff here!
INSTAGRAM Updates Terms including right to sell your photos and says said today that it has the perpetual right to sell users’ photographs without payment or notification, a dramatic policy shift that quickly sparked a public outcry. Unless Instagram users delete their accounts before the January deadline, they cannot opt out.
Query Letters Tips when pitching to agents
PET-CENTRIC SCHTUFF
Comfort Dogs in Newtown Connecticut
Mouse Agility with cool video!
Help Rehome Cats if you can offer a furry leg on the transport chain, check it out!
New Poison Treatment for Cats?
Homeopathy & AVMA wow…this will put some folks’ tails in a twist.
A reader of my Christmas tree tips blog cautioned that her cats EAT cotton balls! So beware if you have a cat like this.
IAABC FREE CHAT ON FACEBOOK 1/13/13 at 9:00 pm (EST) Judy Weiss on “How to Raise a Great Puppy: The Dos and Don’ts to prevent unwanted behavior“
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Uncategorized
December 25, 2012
Why Tabby Wears An M–A Christmas Cat Story
Happy Christmas! I just returned from a visit to Indiana to visit my family and I know many of y’all may also be traveling this week. Whether you’re traveling by car with your cats or traveling with your dogs and decide to stay in a hotel, I hope you and your pets will be helped by the behavior tips. Maybe you’ve decided to leave Kitty with a pet sitter or your dog at a boarding facility while you visit Grandma—I’ve even provided an explanation of, and tips for solving that worrisome cat snubbing behavior when you get home.
Don’t forget to give pets gifts for the holidays! Your cats and dogs will return the favor—here’s the kind of doggy gifts as well as gifts cats give, and why. I’m taking the rest of the week off from blogging, but will be back New Year’s Eve with more bling-icity and pet-astic posts. Before I go, as has become the tradition on the blog (and in my PETiQuette newspaper column), I’ve shared a favorite Christmas story.
This touching legend, included in Complete Kitten Care, tells the story of a simple Tabby cat, and her gift on the very first Christmas day to a special mother and child. Enjoy!
Please be safe traveling back home. May your holidays be blessed.
Why Tabby Wears An M
There was no snow that night in Bethlehem. Instead, the small cat watched a star-spangled sky from her perch in the window of a stable. She liked the stable, for it was a warm safe place to raise her furry babies, and the innkeeper sometimes left scraps out for her to nibble. Tabby wasn’t particularly distinctive, and most humans didn’t look at her twice. After all, her short gray/black fur was quite common. But Tabby’s striped coat hid a heart bigger than cats twice her size.
This night, though, Tabby was out of sorts, for she’d not been able to hunt and catch dinner. Travelers had poured into town for days, so noisy they disturbed decent cat-folks’ rest. Why, they’d even invaded Tabby‟s quiet stable, a place she had before shared only with other furry creatures. Tabby hadn’t minded the human couple—they were calmer than most. She’d left that morning for her usual rounds, but when she returned, the stable was packed with people.
From her perch on the window, Tabby watched the last of the strangers leave. She slipped from the window, and padded silently inside—and froze!
“Meewwww, meewww, meewww,” cried a tiny voice.
A kitten? Tabby’s ears turn this way and that to find the sound of the kitten’s voice. It came from the manger, the very place Tabby often made her own bed. A woman knelt beside the manger, intent on the small mewling that arose from within. Tabby was drawn by the kittenish sound, though she knew her own furry babies were grown to cat-hood. She tiptoed forward very slowly, and passed by a wooly burro, a warm cow, and all the other animals.
The woman looked up, and saw the striped cat. “Oh, little cat,” she murmured, “my baby cannot sleep, and nothing calms him this night.” She sighed, and turned back to the manger. “How grateful would I be to anyone able to bring him sweet dreams.”
And, as Tabby watched, each stable animal stepped forward in turn and tried to soothe the woman’s baby. But the kittenish sounds continued, and finally Tabby could contain herself no longer.
Quickly, she washed herself—paws, face, behind the ears, to the very tip of her tail (so as not to offend the child’s mother)—and then shyly stepped forward. She leaped gracefully to the manger, and stared into the face of the most beautiful baby (human or kitten!) she’d ever seen. He cooed and smiled, waving his tiny hands at Tabby, and she very carefully drew in her claws and settled beside him. Forgotten was her empty tummy; she could only hear her heart calling out to this sweet human-kitten.
And Tabby began to purr.
The wondrous cat-song filled the stable with overwhelming emotion. The animals listened with awe, and the child’s mother smiled as her baby quietly went to sleep.
The child’s mother placed her hand gently on the purring Tabby’s forehead. “Blessings upon you, Tabby-cat, for this sweet gift given to me and my child,” she said. And where she’d touched Tabby’s brow, there appeared an M—the sign of the Madonna’s benediction.
From that day forward, all proper tabby cats are honored with an M on their brow for the great service they performed that first Christmas night. And Christmas nights often find Tabby cats staring into the night, purring as they recall a very special child their ancestor once sang to sleep.
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, cat books, cats and love, Christmas cats, Complete Kitten Care, travel with cats, travel with dogs
December 21, 2012
ComPETability Books FREE!
My Christmas gift to you–and your furry wonders!
I’m on vacation visiting with family and may not be able to respond to emails/comments as timely as usual. Maybe it’s the eggnog, or the carols, or the sheer joy of the challenges and blessings of this past year–a lot of my smiles have to do with YOUSE GUYS.
May your holidays bring you all good things, furry and otherwise. And to help with the pet-astic family members, and THANK YOU for all your blog luv this past year, I’ve made these three Kindle books free today December 21 through Christmas Day.
If you get a new Kindle, be sure to get a copy. Even if you don’t have a Kindle, you can get a free Kindle-For-PC and still get the books you want. Pick one, two, or all three–give them as a gift to your pet loving friends.
HOLIDAY BONUS!
FREE copies of ComPETability Kindle books DEC. 21-25 ONLY
If that’s not enough, I will give away 10 free pawtographed copies of LOST AND FOUND too, through GOOD READS. Now through Christmas, Sign up here!
PLEASE SHARE!
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, competability, dog behavior, dog training, free pet books, pet behavior problems, pet books, www.amyshojai.com
December 20, 2012
99 Authors, 99 Books, 99 Cents & $990 Prizes!
These prices are available on Amazon only.
Romance, Mysteries, YA, Thrillers, and . . .
COMPLETE KITTEN CARE for 99 Cents!
For a listing of ALL books offered and to enter to win $990 in prizes, click here!
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Writing Advice & More Tagged: 99 Authors 99 books 99 cents, Amy Shojai, Complete Kitten Care, www.amyshojai.com
December 19, 2012
How To Give Pets As Gifts
Lilly is 6 1/2 weeks old–what a perfect stocking-size gift, right? Uh…maybe not! Image Copr. Saphire Dream Photography
This season of joy and celebration sometimes prompts pet lovers to spread furry love around and “gift” a loved one with a barking or meowing friend.
Don’t. Well, don’t do it without thinking things through. Thoroughly.
You have all the best intentions, I know, and maybe—MAYBE—the recipient will appreciate your thoughtfulness. But don’t gamble with a pet’s life.
Cupid’s fickle arrow works best when the individual person and potential pet meet face to face. What strikes your fancy may leave Uncle Felix cold. Even if he’s begged for an Akita pup for decades, let HIM choose. The time, the place, the person, and the pet must be right for love to bloom into a lifetime commitment.
And just because you think that your grandma needs the company, she may have other plans, such as traveling to visit all the grandkids. A new kitten that wreaks havoc amongst all her fine china will not endear you. And a busy new parent may wish to have a pet for their child, but have other demands that take priority.
Before you put a bow around that furry neck, as yourself these questions. Will the gift recipient have the time, ability, and funds to care for the cat or dog over the next 10 to 20 years? Even folks who adore pets and long for one of their own may recognize their tiny apartment or crowded neighborhood won’t accommodate a Great Dane—or that a grandchild’s allergies make Siamese love impossible. Please—think. Don’t give a pet, only to create heartbreak later when that gift ends up at the shelter.
Children delight in fluffy pups or kittens on Christmas morning, but such gifts can’t be shoved under the bed and forgotten when the latest video game has more appeal. Remember—even if Fluffy is for the kids, the ADULT ultimately holds responsibility for the well-being of the pet. Will the child’s parents have the time to spend on one-on-one attention a new pet needs, and deserves?
Kitties like Lady Tornado find entertainment if you don’t have time–that can be good! Or not… Image Copr. Arlene Castro
How To Properly Gift With A Pet
What if the kids, your spouse, Aunt Ethel, or a best friend have made it clear they want a pet, are prepared for the responsibility, and feel ready RIGHT NOW for a furry loved one in their life? You’re sure, and so are they. What can you do?
The professionals used to say that the holidays were a TERRIBLE time to get a new pet–that impulse adoptions could leave the cat or dog without a home after the cute-holiday-thrills wore off. More recently, though, the ASPCA conducted some surveys and discovered that when done properly, these adoptions can be lasting, loving adoptions. So I had to re-think my advice.
Holidays tend to be hectic times when normal routines go out the window. Whether a baby, adult or senior rescue cat or dog, new animals need the stability of knowing what to expect. In fact, some holiday schedules may allow you to be home more during this time to help the new kitty or pooch adjust.
I put together these important 4 STEPS FOR GIVING A PUPPY and they apply to kitty-gifting, too. Holiday pets take more work, true. But just think: you’re not only giving the pet to a person—you’re giving a special human to a waiting cat or dog, a fur-kid hungry for a loving, permanent home. Happy holidays, indeed!
Have you ever given–or received–a pet as a gift? How did you prepare? What was the result? Please share! I’m on the road this weekend but will check in and answer as much as I can, I’d love to hear your experiences.
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, dog behavior, giving kittens. how to give pets as gifts, giving puppies, pets, pets as gifts, www.amyshojai.com
December 16, 2012
Monday Mentions: Parakeets, Driving Dogs & Bestseller Insight
I had this scheduled for Monday…but it has come out a day early. That’s fine. Unexpected happens and we must be prepared to deal with the good, bad and unbelievable.
As I was writing this, I watch the tragedy unfold in Connecticut and mourn the senseless loss of life. I’d already planned to include the link to this song, and somehow it now seems even more appropriate.
Stand By Me sung around the world, at the same time, thanks to a creative mix. May we all “stand” together against evil. Amen.
Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Please scroll down for some silly, fun, and moving videos, too.
Writer-icity Schtuff
Zombies in Nature, this is so full of weird-icity and coolness, writers will eat it up with a spoon! Dibs on the concept, guys…
Author Branding Tips a great discussion
Facebook Changes Privacy Settings
NYT Separates Bestseller List for YA and MiddleGrade
Connect Google+ to Online Writing
How Bestseller Lists Work and learn about Amazon Monthly 100
Writer Beware-The Albee Agency Faked Publicity
When Life Gets In the Way boy, I can relate to this! Lovely post most of us can relate to
Help Kitten Associates donate a K.T. Cat plush toy to the kids of Sandy Hook.
Pet-centric Schtuff
Kittens for Kids of SANDY HOOK Kitten Associates is opening their doors, by appointment only, to residents in their community of Newtown, and especially in Sandy Hook, from Dec. 19 through Jan. 31 for some emotional healing through live “kitten therapy.” To set up a visit, request a free plush for your child, or to donate to the plush kitten purchase fund, interested parties should email Kitten Associates at info@kittenassociates.org or call 203-744-9CAT (9228).
Animals With Accents? fascinating. Take the test…I have a Midland accent, who knew?
Treat or Euthanize? some insights from the veterinary side
Muscle Transplant Returns Dog’s Mobility very cool procedure
Pedigreed Cats Friendlier Than “Mutt” Cats? My colleague Jo Singer reports…what do you think of this new study result?
Wilco, the Movie Trailer Pup some truly creative and fun short videos
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder…In Dogs
Creative Cat Feeding from the wonderful cat behavior consultant Marilyn Krieger
Thanks to Piper Bayard for an alert about dog-driving videos–which Magic is not allowed to watch!
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Writing Advice & More Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, dog training, dogs driving cars, kittens, parakeet training, www.shojai.com
