Amy Shojai's Blog, page 9

Is Your Puppy Chewing? Here’s 8 Tips How To Stop Dog Chewing

Is Your Puppy Chewing? Here’s 8 Tips How To Stop Dog Chewing

Chewing is normal behavior for dogs—and for some cats. You can't stop dog chewing, and shouldn't try. Puppies and kittens test their world the same way human infants do. Everything goes into the mouth. Teething youngsters chew objects to relieve the discomfort, but adult dogs rarely outgrow the habit the way (we hope!) people do.

I last wrote about canine chewing when Bravo came to live with us as a new pup. He chewed everything within reach (Oh, my poor coffee table!), including chew toys. We still have Magic-markers on the baseboard and plaster from our last beloved dog. Now we have to re-do flooring in the laundry room, courtesy of Bravo-Dawg.

These days, we THINK we have a handle on Shadow-Pup. We have to really watch him, though, because Shadow likes to chew sticks--yikes!--and has already got one piece caught across the roof of his mouth. When you have a baby-dawg, or even adult canines, it can be a constant struggle to monitor them for safe chewing.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Kitten Development Stages: How new kittens develop

Kitten Development Stages: How new kittens develop

Every year when Spring rolls around we celebrate kitten season! On July 10, we celebrate National Kitten Day, so if a new baby is in your plans, here's some updated kitten care info. If you love kittens, learning about newborn kitten development helps you know what to expect, and help the baby along the way.

Even if it's not yet kitten season, it's helpful to figure out the best age to adopt kittens. Read on to learn about the cat behavior of a three-week-old baby compared to one six weeks old. So whatever time of year, prepare now with all your kitten questions so you're ready when the purr-fect cat or kitten becomes available...

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Protect Pets from Cold Weather

Protect Pets from Cold Weather

Cold weather pet protection becomes more in winter weather. Here in North Texas we're bracing for temps to drop. Forecasts predict dangerously cold weather all over the country. Wind chill makes it even more uncomfortable or even dangerous for our dogs and cats.

Outside animals, like feral cats or stray dogs, suffer greatly from hypothermia or frostbite. House pets used to warm indoor temps need extra help, too. It seemed like a good time to remind everyone about cold weather pet protection.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

2025 New Year Goals–from the Pets

2025 New Year Goals–from the Pets

It's another circle around the sun. How did that happen? New Years comes faster each time, and for me provides a time to reflect, remember, savor the "wins" and explore the "not greats" and make plans for the next 12 months. Rather than making New Year resolutions, I make new year goals—and hope that the journey along the way proves equally rewarding.

Here's my annual yearly recap, plus New Year Goals...from the pets!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

I'm taking the rest of the week off...and hope you can, too. May you have a marvelous holiday season, no matter how you celebrate. Click the picture (above) or this link for a quick and fun animated holiday greeting -- I'm so glad you're part of my world! Click the link (inside) for a fun dog and cat holiday card.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Holiday Sparkles, A Cat-Mas Story

Holiday Sparkles, A Cat-Mas Story

Seren arrived at a time we'd been pet-less for many years. A friend called to tell me she'd found a kitten--and could I help? The wannabe Siamese baby climbed up my leg, wrapped her chocolate paws around my neck, and purred her way into my heart. It was, indeed, Serendipity that we found each other.

That was more than two decades ago. She inspired my cat writing, hated and finally tolerated "that !@#$%!!!-dawg" when Magic arrived (and outweighed her even as a pup!). And Seren tolerated and ultimately loved her pesky cat brother, Karma. Seren's tiny frame packed a powerful presence for over 21 years. She lives on in our hearts...

But at Christmas time, we remember and we smile. You see, Seren had a way about her, to win over even the most reluctant cat lover--with holiday sparkles. Read on!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Tis the Season…For Holiday Gifts

Tis the Season…For Holiday Gifts

If you're like me, last minute shopping for holiday gifts has me scurrying around like Shadow chasing squirrels. Shipping delays also often mean gifts come AFTER the celebration, urk!

So, I've set up these digital gift cards (you choose $10, $40, $50, or $100) that email directly to your recipient (or, you can print out and stuff in a stocking!). Also, check out the discounted book bundles for yourself. *s* Merry holidays, and Happy Christmas!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

New “Cat-mas” Gift Book: Christmas Cat Legend

New “Cat-mas” Gift Book: Christmas Cat Legend

Several years ago, an editor friend urged me to turn this story into a children's book. But (as those who read my thrillers understand) I don't write for kids! Children are, IMO, the toughest audience of all.

But I do love the story. My friend passed away not long after I'd worked with her on another of her terrific pet-theme anthologies.

People, and ideas, come to us for a reason and so I followed the suggestion. Better late than never, right? This gift book, not specifically a "kids book," I offer as a story for people of ALL ages who love Christmas...and cats.

Share the joy of the season with a heartwarming, original telling of the very first Christmas in this gorgeous full-color gift book for cat lovers of all ages!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Lost Cat Finder Tips: Prevention & Prep

Lost Cat Finder Tips: Prevention & Prep

Would you know what to do if your cat slipped out during a party or pet sitter visit? Statistics show that one in ten cats will go missing. Learn how to be ready for an emergency when every hour counts. If your cat does go missing, learn the details on “How to find a lost cat” from the lost cat expert Kim Freeman.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Kennel Cough Got You Down? Protect Dogs from Holiday Hacking

Kennel Cough Got You Down? Protect Dogs from Holiday Hacking

Coughing dogs are no fun for you, or your dog. With holidays near, many dogs may spend time away from home being boarded. That can expose your furry friend to kennel cough. Or other newer canine respiratory dog illnesses. Learn how to protect your dog, by understanding more about kennel cough, a very contagious disease.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing