Amy Shojai's Blog, page 137

Feline Friday: Ask Amy-Why Cats Hate Cars

"Nice bed...as long as it doesn't move, Mom..."

I've blogged about traveling with pets before. Chances are, you won't have to worry about cat plane travel with your kitty-kids, but every pet must at least visit the veterinarian for well pet exams.  My Seren-kitty is due a vet visit this month, too, and she'll be wearing her brand-new cat-designed Thundershirt to see if that helps calm her down (stay tuned for a review!).

A halter and leash gives you something to grasp, other than slinky-kitty.

Kitty crate training goes a long way toward helping cats feel more comfortable about the car ride. But to date, I've found a number of things help keep my cat calm for the ride. I sit in the back seat with her while my husband drives to the clinic. Should we have a fender bender, the airbag from the front could crush a pet, so the fur-kids always ALWAYS stay in the back.

Meanwhile, Seren wears a halter and leash. The snug fit of the halter uses the same principle as the TTouch body wraps, which I suspect are what prompted products like Anxiety Wrap for dogs and the Thundershirt. I like having her secured with a halter, though, for something to grasp if she gets wiggly, even though she stays in her carrier.

By scheduling appointments so dogs (spit!) aren't around when we enter the clinic, and so she's seen immediately, Seren has less time to angst. I'll also admit that part of choosing this clinic was they're less than a 10 minute drive away–again, less time for the kitty to get wound up on the ride. It's awesome, though, that our veterinarian not only takes great care of the Magical-Dawg but also has managed to get a hands-on full exam of my 7-pound devil-kitty without blood-letting.

Do your cats tolerate, love or hate the car? How do you manage the trip? Please share your tips! The Ask Amy video answers the question, but what else would you add? For those of you with kittens, now is a GREAT time to teach car-etiquette to prepare for the adult feline life (kittens tend to be clueless about such things!). You'll find crate training tips in Complete Kitten Care.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Ask Amy Videos, Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, Anxiety Wrap, Ask Amy, cat behavior, cat books, cat care, cat training, cats, cats and cars, fearful cats, Thundershirt, video, www.amyshojai.com

Woof Wednesday: Ask Amy–Why Do Dogs Love Underwear?

You asked, and I delivered– finally I've recorded more Ask Amy videos, and this new one is a doozy. For all the cat folks out there, I've previously written about why cats (and dogs) follow us to the bathroom so the answer has something to do with the same issues.

My Magical-Dawg loves socks. Not clean ones, he wants those my husband has worn all day, and hordes and stockpiles them so I must go on a sock-hunt each laundry day. The underwear love affair (hey that rhymes! could be a future lyric, hmnnnn) has to do with smells as well.

In keeping with the theme of underwear day, y'all might want to check out Kristen Lamb's Pants Of Shame, or take a look at Jenny Hansen's Undie Chronicles. WARNING! do not read while sipping beverage. Now consider how your dogs feel about those sorts of (ahem) undie indulgences.

So do your dogs love underwear? How do you manage to defend from furry marauders? What is your answer to the dilemma, below? Do tell…I mean really, please, DO TELL!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Ask Amy Videos, Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, Ask Amy, dog advice, dog behavior, dogs and underwear, dogs underwear, video, www.amyshojai.com

Monday Mentions: The New Baby & Suck It Up, Sweetheart!

Frank Steele and Amy Shojai prior to the closing night performance of KURVES premier run.

A new "baby" was born this past weekend. That's me with my writing partner Frank Steele outside the theater, just before curtain time on KURVES, THE MUSICAL. I'll have more pictures and even video very soon to share, but for now, wanted to offer a brief recap of one of the most awesome experiences of my professional life.

Many of you who read this blog are writers–published or someday-published–and I'm hear to tell you that DREAMS DO COME TRUE! But first, you have to dare to dream. And then you gotz-ta reach out for that brass ring. When you fall off the merry-go-round, it's tempting to lay there in the dust and watch all the pretty horsies keep racing round and round, just out of reach.

Nobody becomes successful without eating a few dirt sandwiches along the way. You don't have to like the taste, but you do need to get used to it, and remind yourself where that dirt belongs–in the litter box (or litter-ary toilet!). So grit your teeth, swallow and it'll all come out in the end where it belongs, but only if you GET UP and keep reaching for those shiny objects. You can't catch anything unless you open your hand.

View from the stage--waiting for the house to open.

My best advice? Try. Ask. Risk. Surround yourself with those who share–or at least support–your dream. Not yes-bots, but reality-peeps with gentle sage advice willing to give you a butt-kick when needed along with that shoulder to cry on, and support your toddler steps.

What's the worst that could happen–you fail. So what? Here's a lesson learned from dog and cat behavior–the only way pets learn on their own is to make mistakes, so failure is value-added. Each setback stings but also adds wisdom that comes with a callous on your nether regions for future protection. Thing is, dogs and cats learn REAL FAST compared to humans. People are just wired to be stupid sometimes, and it takes head-banging angst before I learn there's an open doorway just waiting for me to walk through.

I have a confession to make. For years, I wanted to write a play and compose music but never got around to it. I was like all those wannabe writers (not YOU of course!) who like to say, "I've always wanted to write a novel…" and have every excuse in the book to postpone the dream.

Ya know what it took to get me to actually get off the "wannabe" pot? An insult from someone that really didn't matter in the scheme of things. Yet I let those hurtful comments undermine my confidence and drive me away from something I desperately loved. To fill that hole in my heart my good friend Frank and I decided to create our own show, and KURVES (and the wonderful cast and crew!) put those careless comments right where they belonged–the litter box.

The Kurves set awaits . . .

The older I get, the more I realize that life's too short to let others rule your day or take the shine out of the sparkles. We give others the power to take away our joy sometimes–it's easy to do but I'm getting better about recognizing that in myself. And, as one of the songs in KURVES says, instead of giving in to the urge, SUCK IT UP, SWEETHEART!

Do you have someone or something–comments, an event, a disappointment–that colors your future expectations? Does it hold you back, or spur you to by-damn prove 'em wrong? How do you manage the nay-sayers in your life? They say that success is the best revenge, so is it true?

I don't know where KURVES will take us but this toddler seems to have strapped on roller blades and it may be we're in for an exciting ride. So stay tuned! Oh, and you can scroll down a bit for the usual Monday Mentions mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week.

Opening night cake courtesy of the Kurves cast!

In honor of the "new baby" the playwrights were presented with flowers, candy cigars and monogrammed "onesies." Jury is still out whether it's a boy...or a girl.

Opening night flowers from the cast.

Closing night flowers from my husband--awwwww!

WRITING SCHTUFF

Time Waster or Time Investment? Social Media for Writers from Laurie Huston

Ebook Pricing for Writers from Dean Wesley Smith, he's actually done some research, an interesting read

Kindle Nation Survey on reader habits, interesting info

PayPay vs Naughty Pink Bits oh no you DIDN'T?! from Susan Brassfield Cogan's Blog

Audio Books Anyone? Some how-to info

French Seize Digital Rights?! Writer Beware awesome blog!

Twitter Tips for Tweeps from my writing buddy Nita Beshear

2012 International Digital Awards contest sponsored by the Oklahoma Romance Writers of America.

DK Seeks Online Marketing Manager

Christina Katz: Author of The Writer's Workout from Jenn Nips blog

Firearms For Writers a conference speaker April 14 in Ohio from an RWA chapter, looks good!

PET SCHTUFF

10 Ways You Know Your Cat Rules You

AKC Names Most Popular Dog Breeds  is yours here?

Learn the Benefits of Play from Kitty from awesome blogger Angie Bailey

Owners Concerns Re: Euthanasia & Care

Birthday Surprise: Wife gets namesake pet-adoption center

Tough Job…NOT! Perfect for writers–get paid to stay home with the dog!

from VetStreet as well as

Why Cats Run the Internet and sell sell sell!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Theater & Performance, Writing Advice & More Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat behavior, cats, dog behavior, dog books, http://www.shojai.com, Kurves, publishing, theater, writers conference, writing, writing advice, www.amyshojai.com

Feline Friday: Cat Snuggling 101

Snuggling works! Copr. Wendy Christensen

Today once again I share blog-space with an awesome cat writer, artist and behavior purr-son (I wear her jewelry…just sayin'…). Please help me welcome my colleague Wendy Christensen, who manages her clowder with a velvet paw as they provide furry inspiration. There's a reason they call her the "Cat Herder" and those who love cats will recognize their own cats' foibles in Wendy's experience. The more cats you have, the greater the chance for (ahem) cat-astrophes. How many cats do you have? How do YOU do it? Take a lesson from Wendy and please share your experiences in the comments. Take it away, Wendy!

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"Cats do what they do because it works." This insight, offered by ethologist and author Myrna Milani, DVM, has long guided my approach to cat-keeping.

Just like us, cats have problems to solve. The solutions they choose make perfect sense to them. They just don't always make sense to us. A cat chooses a behavior because it solves a problem for her in the most satisfying and acceptable way she can devise at that moment. Her solution is not always what you would choose. If you don't like her solution, it's up to you to devise a superior – from the cat's point of view – alternative. And that's the essence of the cat-keeper's job: figuring out what works, and what doesn't, for both cats and humans.

When it comes to cats, one should never say "never" (especially if the cats are calicos), but there are a few things that never work (yelling, hitting, force, punishment) and a few things that, intelligently deployed, can work wonders (praise, petting, play, pampering, diversion, persuasion).

My life with cats is a work in progress. I don't just live with my cats, I study them. I'm no animal communicator (I wish I were), but I try to get into their furry little heads and figure out what they're thinking, what they want, and what's important to them.

What I've discovered is that what cats want is: plenty of everything, plus extras. Extra litter boxes. Extra treats. Extra cat trees. Extra toys. Extra attention. They constantly crave reassurance that the resources they care about will remain plentiful and accessible. They're extraordinarily good at sharing, but hate being forced to share. They're quite savvy about managing resources among themselves, as long as they possess a general sense of abundance and continuity. What I've learned is that the cat-keeper's job is to be a good provider.

Their lack of opposable thumbs means cats can't tinker with their environments to the extent that we can. But the cat is a practical animal with an engineer's curiosity about the world, and cats can make more sophisticated problem-solving decisions than we sometimes give them credit for. They try something. If it works, they keep doing it. If it doesn't, they tinker with the solution and try again.

Like my cats, I have a practical engineer's curiosity about what works and what doesn't. Whether I'm building a piece of cat jewelry, painting a cat portrait, or offering cat behavior advice to puzzled cat owners I focus on efficacy and efficiency: finding the simplest, most elegant solution that works. Over time, my collection of favorite products, tools, tips, tricks and techniques grows.

In managing our shared environment, I'm perpetually searching for what's going to work best for the cats and for me. I identify problems, tinker with this and that, consider possible solutions. Sometimes, the cats beat me to it.

Several of my cats have always been rather prickly about snuggling up "too close" to other cats. They had to maintain a certain perimeter of dignified separation. Despite my efforts to encourage sharing, my bed's cat-carrying capacity remained stubbornly at about three. Then came the ice storm of 2008 – no heat or power for five days. It started out cold, and got colder. I put out multiple blankets and kitty beds so the cats could bundle up in (relative) coziness. But they didn't retreat to their kitty beds. They piled up on top of me. All ten of them.

This necessitated a rapid and wholesale breakdown of the "dignified perimeter" theory. Ever since, mass snuggling has been the norm. It turns out that sharing works. So, though cats generally hate changes, they're not afraid to change their minds when they discover something that works.

Time to share, now that we know it works. Here are some of the things that work for me and my cats:

Interior screen doors
ZeroOdor
Hard floors with sealed edges
Da Bird
Washable everything
Febreeze Laundry Odor Eliminator
Extra-large litter boxes, on wheels
The Drinkwell-360 cat fountain
Cat trees in every room
DeLonghi steam cleaner
Fleece throws in every color (cats love fleece!)
Hills t/d (as treats)
Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat litter

OK, your turn. What works for you and your cats?

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I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat art, cat behavior, cat books, cat jewelry, cats, Wendy Christensen

Woof Wednesday: Doggy Assistant, Excuse, or Both?

Today I sniff out new territory and welcome my first-ever GUEST BLOGGER! Please help me welcome my colleague Natalie Markey, who balances a writing career, marriage, motherhood, and special-needs dog–in other words, she's like many of us who call ourselves freelancers. There can be pitfalls when working for yourself, though. I often tell folks that my "boss" is a b*tch who always knows when I'm goofing off–but truly it can be hard to toe the line and juggle all those balls (and Frisbees). How do YOU do it? Even if you don't have the two-legged children, the fur-kids and significant others demand attention, too. Natalie shares her answers to these questions. Take it away, Natalie!

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I traded in my fancy suits and briefcase from the "corporate world" for college t-shirts and Victoria Secret sweats (they are comfy) to write full time from home. Some people turned to working from home when the economy went south. The truth is, more and more professionals are working from home as freelancers, consultants and writers. Some companies even allow employs to work from home as incentives to save on gas and long commutes.  And then there are the brave stay-at-home-moms AKA CEO's of the home. Whether you work professionally from home or deal with the normal daily chores that faces us all, dog owners all have one thing in common— Our dogs and if you're like me your dog wants to help with everything!

My dog, Oscar sees himself as the man of the house whenever my husband isn't home. Gosh, sometimes he still probably feels that way when my husband is home! As a working from home mom and author I've learned from my experiences how to manage my schedule so that I can be a great mom, dog owner and professional. I'm currently prepping my next Writing Moms workshop and I'm reminded that so much parenting advice can be applied to anyone with a dog.

If you have children and dogs then you will probably agree with me that children are in many ways easier. I can take my daughter to the grocery store, church, etc. Most places don't want to see eighty-pound Oscar, even though I know he is such a gentlemen and anyone who knows him is blessed. Oscar is my other baby.  So how can you use that to help you with your work?

Your dog can help you around the house, whatever you are working on. Treat him like an assistant. Don't let him be an excuse for not getting things done.  Arrange your routine to incorporate him. I work in my office so I made him a comfy bed set up under my desk. When I write, he lays on my feet keeping them warm and providing company.

Before I set up his addition in the office he would constantly be trying to get me away from work to spend time with him. He doesn't get as much mommy/Oscar time as he use to because of our daughter. Whenever she naps, he wants to spend time with me. Of course I do give him my full attention throughout the day but when I'm working I've made it possible to combine time with Oscar with productivity.

There are many things you can do to incorporate your dog into your daily routine. Start with your relationship with him. Know your dog and you will know how to best incorporate him into your work, chores and goals.

How has your dog become part of your routine at home?

I'm giving away a "seat" in my March Writing Moms class, which begins Monday March 5. To participate visit my blog and leave a comment. I will put your name in my virtual hat and draw!

Natalie C. Markey is a seasoned freelance writer including popular columns like the Special Needs Dog Care Examiner. She is the author of "Caring for Your Special Needs Dogs," and also writes fiction from her Arkansas home, where her dog Oscar assists her. Follow her on Twitter, Pen to Publish blog, and her website.

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I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Uncategorized

Monday Mentions: Cat Fonts, Book Reviews & Animal Stars

Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Some of this "schtuff" can be hard to categorize and may fit more than one topic so I urge you to at least scan them all.

For the next three nights we'll be rehearsing and fine-tuning the premier performances this Thursday, Friday and Saturday of KURVES, THE MUSICAL! Last week our preview performance received raves, and we got a GREAT REVIEW in Sunday's paper, yee-haw! (see comments on the KURVES page) and ticket sales continue to be enthusiastic. But I know that I'll be worthless this week, and am grateful to two terrific guest bloggers who will provide your Woof Wednesday and Feline Friday furry fixes while I pursue thespian endeavors.

Meanwhile, I've been busy creating more puppy-licious content (some of it listed, below). To start the blog off on the right paw, check out these two new books by awesome colleagues and authors. Whether you have the urge to gift a pet-loving friend with a title, or indulge yourself, you can't get better.

They say that confession is good for the soul–and Alia Zobel Nolan channels her 'inner dog' to get to the bottom of some of your furry miscreant's antics. This fun gift book with gorgeous photos is great fun and leave you second guessing your own dogs' motivation. Read my review here. Oh, and for the cat-centric folks, Allia has another great companion book titled I'd Rather Be A Cat: The Official "Better Than Dogs" Cat Book.

Touching, inspirational stories abound in David Frei's latest book. Angel On A Leash celebrates therapy dogs as well as the therapy dog organization of the same name. Check out my review here.

WRITER-ICITY SCTHUFF

The Publishing Pole Vault, from traditionally to self publishing, interesting blog

Giving Away Books–Huh? Here's why it's a good thing

Bob Mayer on Story Ideas & Conflict, a must-do online workshop!

Why Poets Should Avoid Agents

William Bernhardt Writer Workshops

Left Coast Crime Conference 2012 in Sacramento!

Writers League of Texas Agent Conference

2012 Oklahoma Book Awards Finalists Named

WG2E–New Online Bulletin Board for Self-Pub'd Writers

WEIRD BUT FUN SCHTUFF

Prevent Sinning with The Sin Collar from the awesome blogger Jenny Hansen…where does she find this stuff!?

Cats As Fonts This could go under any of the cat-egories today.

PET SCHTUFF

World Spay Day February 28

FixNation is an LA-based nonprofit that works with more than 7,000 volunteers to implement TNR (trap-neuter-return) of feral cats. They loan traps out to the community, teach volunteers how to trap and provide information about colony management and seek funding to maintain this level of outreach. To date, they've "fixed" more than 65,000 cats and also offers low-cost services for companion cats.

Cat Hero Saves Owner's Life Hours After Adoption! You may have heard of diabetic-alert dogs–well here's a cat doing the same thing, and more!

Ohio Pit Bull Discrimination Ends

Animal Abuser Registry?

Where Do Research Cats & Dogs Come From? You'd be surprised…or maybe not. New rules …

Toxoplasmosis–the Truth! neat info from the Worms and Germs blog

Westminster Benching Moves from the Gardens!

Hybrid Vigor? Baloney! Interesting article from a vet, no less.

Update on Canine Heartworm Disease, in honor of February being American Heart Health Month.You can also help support feline heart health with donations to the Winn Feline Foundation's Ricky Fund that seeks solutions to feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

February is National Pet Dental Care Month so check out these articles on puppy teething (when does it STOP!), a how-to primer on brushing puppy teeth, and an informative article on canine dental health.

5th annual ACVO/Merial National Service Dog Eye Exam Event More than 200 board certified veterinary ophthalmologists throughout the U.S., as well as Canada and Puerto Rico, are estimated to provide free sight-saving eye exams to thousands of eligible service animals. Registration for service animal owners and handlers begins April 1, 2012 at www.ACVOeyeexam.org

Birdy Movie Star! visits Dr. Rayya, you don't want to miss this gorgeous parrot

MORE Animal Stars in time for scene stealing awards

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Theater & Performance, Writing Advice & More Tagged: Allia Zobel Nolan, Amy Shojai, cat behavior, David Frei, dog training, pit bull bans, the sin collar, theater and performance, therapy dogs, toxoplasmosis, writing advice, www.amyshojai.com

Feline Friday: Beware Easter Lilies!

Copr. Home-and-garden.webshots.com

The gorgeous lily makes its appearance each year, decorating church, home, and garden. I can't have them in my house, though.  I won't to risk having an Easter lily anywhere near my cat Seren. For cats, the fragrant blooms can mean death.

Many lilies are lethal to cats. Easter lilies, stargazer lilies, and Asiatic lilies are the most dangerous, and different cats react in various ways. The plants contain a chemical that can damage the kidneys, and kill your cat. Just biting a leaf or petal, or licking up the water from the vase can be enough to cause serious kidney disease.

Artificial flowers may be just the ticket, as in this posed shot.

Dogs often gnaw leaves, dig up the plant, or eat the whole thing. Cats aren't as likely to eat plants, but just biting a lily leaf or petal can kill kitty. Felines more often paw-pat and shred leaves and stems during play, and may be poisoned when they later lick and clean their paws and claws.

Cats poisoned by lily toxin typically suffer kidney failure within 36 to 72 hours. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy or loss of appetite. Some cats suffer permanent kidney damage and lose their lives, while others can recover if treated in time with dialysis that gives the organs enough time to heal.

Roses can injure cats if they bite thorns, but aren't toxic and actually are edible...according to Seren!

The easiest way to protect your cats is to keep toxic plants out of reach—or out of your house altogether. Besides lilies, other potential harmful plants include rhododendron, sago palm, kalanchoe and schefflera. Azalea can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, coma and death. Eating or chewing caladium, dieffenbachia or philodendron makes the tongue and throat swell up so breathing is difficult. Mother-in-law's tongue (snake plant) causes everything from mouth irritation to collapse. Crown of thorns and English ivy will prompt thirst, vomiting and diarrhea, stomach pain, and death in one to two days. Holly also causes stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

Peace Lily

You can keep your pet family members safe and sound by choosing only pet-friendly safe varieties for your garden and home. Calla Lilies (below) and peace lilies (above), which don't belong to the Lilium genus, are harmless to cats.

Calla Lily

There are many other plants that prompt mild problems, such as excess salivation or mouth discomfort. Keeping these out of reach of curious paws may be sufficient to protect your animals. But pet lovers should steer clear of the worst plant offenders, both inside and out. If you see your pet with one or more of these signs, particularly if a suspect plant is within reach, get help immediately! First aid can save the cat or dog's life. Then take the pet to see the veterinarian as quickly as possible.

Different poisons require very specific first aid. Usually that will be either 1) induce vomiting, (cats do this on their own very well–but never when you want them to!) or 2) give milk or water to wash out the mouth and dilute the poison. Making the pet vomit the wrong poisonous plant, though, could make a serious situation even more deadly, so you MUST know what to do for each type of plant.

Detailed advice for dealing with the most common plant poisoning is available in the book The First-Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats. The ASPCA Animal Poison-Control Center is available for telephone consultations (1-888-426-4435) in case of poisoning emergency.

What cat-safe plants do you have in your home? How do you keep the cat from destroying/eating them? Have you ever had a kitty-plant encounter of the dangerous kind? Please share!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, cat books, cats, dog books, Easter lily, first aid for pets, poison, poisonous plants, www.amyshojai.com

Thoughty Thursday WARNING!

WARNING Will Robinson, WARNING!

A colleague of mine recently sent a link to something called the Writers Pitch Book that purports to "Connect Writers With Agents, Editors & Movie Producers." The idea is that YOU (the author) send them your 'pitch' and they publish it in the book which goes out to the "right people" to get you noticed and published/produced.

Oh yeah, did I mention there's a fee involved?

Shoot-fire, it'd be worth it to spend $50 to get your pitch before those with the golden keys to the kingdom, wouldn't it? That's what these folks bank on, people! Let's take a deeeeeep breath and think for a minute.

TAKING ADVANTAGE, GRRRR!

What's the benefit here? Well, you will get your pitch published. The "pitch book" certainly may be sent/delivered to all the movers-and-shakers in Nooo Yawk and Hollywood, very likely that will happen.

But why in the wide world of sports (or publishing/movie making) would those editors/agents WANT TO READ THIS FREAKIN' BOOK? I mean, come on, people–agents and editors receive thousands (yes, that's several zeros) of pitches a week. Not a year, but in a week. Ask yourself, just who is this publisher/person who has the means to persuade a busy editor or agent or (gasp!) movie producer to open up a book filled with pitches, sift through, and say, YES, I want to make YOU a star!

I apologize if this offends anyone but it makes me jump up and down and gnash teeth and say SIC-'EM MAGICAL-DAWG! when anyone takes advantage of the hopeful aspirations of writers. There are many online sites that already purport to "connect writers with X" and they're just as ineffective.

SCAMS, DREAM-KILLERS, SUCKING WRITERS DRY

Is it a scam? Well…some are, some aren't especially if they do what they promise–publish a pitch and send that pitch to the agent. But the only people benefiting are the ones that take your check.  That sucking sound you hear is your wallet being lightened.

Similar "opportunities" are offered to actors for getting their head shots and resumes in front of casting directors–you submit your teeeeeny tiny picture and info to these ginormous catalogues that end up as a doorstop (at best) or hamster bedding (at worst).

Please, people. It's never been easy to get work seen by editors, agents or producers. And nobody can do it for you. Instead of spending your hard earned money on one of these "short cuts" that don't work, save those nickles and dimes and invest in a really good writer conference that allows you a face-to-face with an agent or editor. You'll also hear success stories–and cautionary tales–from writers in the trenches, just like you.

I wish there was a magic wand–or magic book–that would do the job for you–and for me. If you ever happen to find that sparkly magic spell, please clue me in. Until then, watch out for the dream-killers. Protect your dream, it's priceless, and don't let ANYONE devalue your work with such things.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Writing Advice & More Tagged: acting, Amy Shojai, movie producers, novels, pitching, publishing, writing, writing advice, writing scams, www.amyshojai.com

Woof Wednesday: Putting On the Dog at Dog Shows

Yorkshire Terrier backstage at Westminster.

Last week, I'm sure a number of readers watched the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on television. I've attended this event several times–I shot most of the pictures in today's blog at Westminster–and it's even more exciting and impressive in person.

In an email communication that mentioned the show, though, one passionate pet advocate expressed the hope that folks NOT watch the show. A finger was pointed at shows for promoting the sale of pets for profit, labeling the practice to be cruelty to animals that created the need for rescue organizations and shelters to deal with the cast offs.

This Standard Poodle is not yet ready for his close-up! Again, taken in the benching area at Westminster.

Wow. I have to applaud the passion, and I actually agree with some of the comments. I also would like to see an end to the need for rescue and shelters, but I don't believe banning dog shows (or cat shows) would stop indiscriminate breeding. Just take a look in the paper at the "free puppies" section—those are not dog show animals being bred for profit. Punishing the folks who research pedigrees, perform expensive genetic and other health tests before doggy match-making, fund ultrasounds, support research to improve health of all dogs (or cats) doesn't account for numbers found in rescue, foster and shelter organizations. I know many breeders who include in their contract that should your circumstances change THEY will take back the dog or cat.

Notice the saw dust on the floor--the BEST pictures (without people traffic) can be taken at the Westminster doggy potty spot.

The only folks who actually make money breeding dogs and cats would never get one of their dogs into Westminster or a comparable show. If you heard my colleague David Frei comment during the broadcast, you learned that a majority of the exhibitors at these high-venue events are ALSO into rescue work, support shelters, do therapy dog work, visit prisons, are hunting dogs or SAR emergency teams, and help fund health studies that benefit all dogs and cats including shelter animals.

Corded coats as on this Komondor served to protect the dogs as herders, but critics suggest the emphasis on appearance may not be good for the dogs.

What's the deal with showing dogs, anyway? The earliest record of a dog show dates to June 1859 in England and featured hunting dogs, while today the show world has expanded to include a much greater variety of breeds, types, and fun canine sports.

Conformation dog shows are the beauty contest of the dog world, like the Westminster show. But conformation goes beyond simple looks. Show judges must know what constitutes the breed "ideal" and measure each competing canine against that mind's eye image to select the winner that comes closest. Besides looks, the dog's health, ability to move, and even personality must be up to snuff.

Appearance doesn't have to be extreme--there can be "hidden" issues as in this gorgeous Golden Retriever, a breed known to have a very high incidence of cancer.

Interestingly, after the 2012 Westminster winning Pekingese Malachy was crowned, quite a bit of outcry resulted not only from folks like rescue and shelter organizations, but also from those in the "show" world. You see, dog shows have a public relations problem—as evidenced by the comments that prompted this column. The breeding of some dogs to extravagant extremes that meets a "show" standard but may impact the health and well- being of the dog has been in question for years, from veterinarians and forward-thinking dog lovers. While the Peke breed was developed to be a lap dog/pet in ancient China, and the winner certainly fit today's standard, the little guy epitomized all the complaints about purebred dog breeding favoring form over function. The coat alone would be crippling and lethal in a Texas summer!

Thank you to everyone who does their part for companion pets everywhere. It shouldn't be an "us against them" mentality. I just wish that all the "good guys" from every arena—show, shelter, rescue, feral TNR, foster and more—worked together for the mutual benefit and against the common enemy—abuse, neglect, and more.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, breeding, dog care, dog health, dog rescue, dog shelters, dog shows, dog sports, Malachy, puppies.About.com, Westminster

Monday Mentions: Writing, Acting & Pets oh my!

"Maxine" the owner of the gym in Kurves, Texas.

Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Some of this "schtuff" can be hard to categorize and may fit more than one topic so I urge you to at least scan them all.

This past weekend I finished the orchestration for the overture and exit music for KURVES, THE MUSICAL. Tonight we have a photographer coming for cast pictures during the show. That photo above is during a rehearsal–and that's my co-author–to give you an idea of the flavor of the show. *s* If you're in the N. Texas region I hope you'll join us for this fun time. Rehearsals are a blast, we have a wonderful cast and the venue is outstanding. A reviewer will see the show this week, and we'll have our premier March 1, 2, 3.

WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

Just Breathe! stress relief tips from awesome author and blogger Joy Held

Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2011  so do you agree?

The Writing for Children Competition seeks submissions for all ages of young people, from picture books to young adult (YA) stories. The Writers' Union of Canada is pleased to launch its 16th annual Writing for Children Competition, which invites writers to submit a piece for children up to 1,500 words in the English language that has not previously been published in any format. A $1,500 prize will be awarded to an unpublished Canadian writer, and the entries of the winner and finalists will be submitted for consideration to three publishers of children's books. The deadline for entries is April 24, 2012.

Pinterest for Authors, good tips from Carla Stewart

Writers–You've Been Replaced by a Bot this gives me chills and it's not sci-fi any longer.

R.L. Stine Posts Horror Story on Twitter  Talk about "short short stories…" is this the wave of the future?

AUTHOR BEWARE discusses the pros and cons (lots of cons!) of  BookTango, an ebook aggregator for self-published authors has been released by  Author Solutions (owner of the iUniverse, Xlibris, AuthorHouse, and Trafford brands, and the power behind the outsourced self-publishing divisions of Harlequin and Thomas Nelson, among others).

Kirkus Launches Editing Service for Self-Pub'd Authors

SAG + AFTRA = ???  Information on the merger of Screen Actors Guild & American Federation of Television and Radio Artists

PET SCHTUFF

Dog Flags for helping signal your dog's attitude in advance–"I'm Shy" or "I'm Friendly" for the humans who can't read doggy communication. Neat idea!

Help for Feral Cats from Examiner writer Stacy Ritz

Westminster Steps In It  Those who watched the dog show will be interested in this discussion by savvy dog-centric folks (be sure to read the comments, too, this is a keeper!).

Super-k9.com Presents Cara Shannon – Dallas/Addison 2012. This two day workshop shows professional dog trainers how to set up ongoing admission classes for reactive, aggressive, and shy dogs. Cara's methods are all science-based and positive and are focused on not only changing behavior in the dogs but also on changing the emotional response of the dog.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you'd like answered? 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 with pet book give-aways!

Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Theater & Performance, Writing Advice & More Tagged: acting, Amy Shojai, cat behavior, cat books, dog books, dog training, http://www.amyshojai.com, Kurves, theater, writing