RSS Feed

Posts Tagged ‘cat care’

  1. Monday Mentions: Word-icity, Food Stamps for Pets & Nosy Awards

    March 4, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    DebLaroche-Dogs

    Deb Laroche gave me a GREAT review for LOST AND FOUND thriller…and also sent a picture of her expert doggy critics gallery, L-R: Tess, Sookie, Spike and Harley. Thanks to all for the paws-up! Anyone who has reviewed the book–please send a picture of your fur-kids with a link to the review and I’ll post ‘em on a future blog!

    As a writer, I love words and I suspect readers love ‘em, too. Some words are just fun to say, and the other day my co-author and I got tickled listing a bunch of our favs. To spread the fun around, I posted a note on my Facebook Page inviting folks to add their own silly or interesting words. These are great to throw into writer-ly scenes, and can add great character to your fiction-icity.

    Well yes, I make up words, too. :) I offered the word PUCE. My co-author replied with SNORKLE. I came back with GARBANZO. KUMQUAT. SCRUMPTIOUS.

    Here are more words my Facebook Friends and I added–DISCOMBOBULATE. Antidisestablishmentarianism. MOCKNEFARIOUS (a worthy made-up word!)  KOKOMO, WAUKARUSA, KITCHICOQUILLIS, NAPPANEE. Fustian hippopotamus absodamnlutely cockles. Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (Hawaii’s state fish). Vendouza (Greek for “suction cup”). Onamatopoei, Trebuchet. SCARF. Acetabulum. SASQUATCH. TORPID. LUDICROUS. NOXIOUS. SQUIB. Upsidebittemus. Diaphanous Melanoma Malevolent Shyster. Pavlova. Carbunkle, synchronize, vicisitude. Melliflous, nonchalant (so Audrey Hepburn, that one), obsequious and kerfluffle. Jubilate. Clock. Serendipity!

    Yeah, I know, my FB cronies ROCK. So what are some of YOUR favs? Post in the comments–and I’ll be extra impressed for those of you able to make a sentence out of 5 or more of the above words that actually make sense. *eg* Don’t miss the hilarious video at the end of the blog, too, with more word-icity.

    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. Lots of contests today for cat videos, best veterinarian, dog heroes and pet blogs so be sure to enter and/or nominate your favs. For new followers to the blog, welcome! and you can expect more cat and dog specific schtuff later in the week on Wednesday and Friday.


     

    WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

     Penguin’s Solution for Authors just who benefits? Great post by David Gaughran.

    Unattractive Contract at Random House’s HYDRA opined by Writer Beware in another interesting development

    Traditionally Pub’d Authors Potentially Make Less here’s an interesting analysis on why indie/”hybrid” publishing is a positive choice

    Want to Sell Gift Cards for Your Books? Here’s a plan…be sure to read the comments, too, some terrific ideas and tips

    15 Ways to Build Your Subscriber List shared by my colleague Diane Capri 

    Turning Your Novel Into a Serial (no, not cereal…although that might be tasty!)

    Get Your Book Reviewed by San Francisco Book Review

    Forbes Article on Amazon Reader Buying Trends pointed out by the awesome Steena Holmes

    Blue Mountain Arts Seeks Greeting Card Freelancers “We are looking for highly original and creative submissions on friendship, family, special occasions, positive living, and other topics one person might want to share with another person. Submissions may also be considered for inclusion in book anthologies. We pay $300 per poem for all rights to publish it on a greeting card and $50 if your poem is used only in an anthology.”

    William Bernhardt Writing Seminars in Oklahoma City in April and June, highly recommended

    Dogs In Canada Revived! new life for this prestigious magazine

    Ghost Story With Cats from my colleague Dusty Rainbolt–based on a chilling REAL experience (see the video, below)

    CrescentMoon
    PET-CENTRIC SCHTUFF

    Food Stamps for Pets to help feed the furry family members of those needing help. PAWsome! Check out the video below, too.

    My Cat’s Story Video Contest! get your camera’s rolling, this is great fun for you and your cats

    America’s Favorite Veterinarian Contest share why your vet’s the cat’s meow (and puts the wag in your dog’s swag!)

    “Dear Future Me” a charming dog-blog and an incredibly moving post of a dog’s wish for his canine successors

    How To Be A Responsible Cat Owner many of these apply to dogs, too

    Hero Dog Awards Nominations Open from American Humane

    BlogPaws Announces Conference Speakers and guess who is speaking? *s* (moi!) This topical actually fits under both writer and pet shtuff, and the conference May 16-18 just outside Washington, DC is THE place for pet-centric bloggers of every kind to learn about social media, blogging, and even monetizing your work. (Yep, bet those last three words made your furry lil’ ears prick up!) BlogPaws also has awards for pet bloggers–I’ve already nominated a BUNCH of my favorite pet-centric blogs out there, and this is your chance to also nominate your furry must-reads. Sure, I’d be flattered to receive a nomination…but this isn’t a popularity contest so there’s no need for bunches of folks to “vote.” Here’s the details:

    Nominations for the 2013 BlogPaws Nose-to-Nose Social Media and Pet Blogging Awards

    Nominations open at 12:00 PM EST, Wednesday, February 27th and close at 3:00 PM EST Friday, March 8th. Click on the image for the category you would like to nominate a Blog, Facebook Page or Twitter Page for. These images are the badges that the finalists will receive. For complete rules and regulations please visit our BlogPaws Official Rules and Regulations page.

    To nominate a blog for “Best Blog Design” or “Best Blog Writing” or “Best Humor Blog”:

    2013_NosetoNose_BlogDesign 2013_NosetoNose_BlogWriting 2013_NosetoNose_HumorBlog

    To nominate a blog for “Best Bark Blog” or “Best Meow Blog” or “Best Wiggle Blog”:

    2013_NosetoNose_BarkBlog 2013_NosetoNose_MeowBlog 2013_NosetoNose_WiggleBlog

    To nominate a blog for “Best New Blog” or “Best Cause Blog” or “Best Blog Video”:

    2013_NosetoNose_NewBlog 2013_NosetoNose_CauseBlog 2013_NosetoNose_BlogVideo

    To nominate a blog for “Best Blog Photo” or “Best Facebook Design” or “Best Twitter Design”:

    2013_NosetoNose_BlogPhoto 2013_NosetoNose_FBdesign 2013_NosetoNose_TWdesign

    Please be sure to read the BlogPaws Official Rules and Regulations.

    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 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!

     

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Writing Advice & More | Tags: ,,,,,,,,,,,, | No Comments

  2. Injured Ass-ets & Tail Wag Trauma

    February 27, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    Labrador

    That tail is one of the most expressive parts of the dog–or cat–body. It’s not unusual for a friendly flail to clear tabletops. But what can you do when the wagging wacks walls, and there’s trauma to twining tail tips? (say THAT fast five times!)

    Big dogs like Labradors are so happy—and so large—that happy wagging bangs the tail tip bloody. Pet tails can also be shut in doors, stepped on, or otherwise hurt. Once injured, tails are very prone to re-injury and can stay sore and battered.

    The condition isn’t a medical emergency but is painful for the dog or cat. It can also be messy when the injured tail splatters blood around the room. With chronic tail wag trauma, medical attention is needed to speed the healing, but home care also works well.

    HOME FIRST AID FOR INJURED PET ASS-ETS

    Benadryl has a sedative effect and is very safe. You can give one milligram for every pound the pet weighs to temporarily slow the wagging.

    Hair not only hides the wound, it also collects bacteria and holds blood like a paintbrush. When the tail is very furry, carefully clip away the hair with blunt scissors. Electric clippers are a safer choice for fur removal.

    Usually infection isn’t a problem, but it’s still best to quickly clean up the tail. The simplest and most effective technique is to dip the tail in a pan of cold water for several minutes. That rinses off the wound, helps stop the bleeding and reduces inflammation. Then gently pat the tail dry with a clean cloth.

    If the dog or cat won’t allow tail dipping, apply an ice cube to the area to numb the pain and reduce swelling. The damage prompts the body to release chemicals called histamines that cause swelling and inflammation. Inflammation can break down the cells and cause permanent damage. Ice stops the process. Once the injury is clean and dry, apply a thin film of antibacterial ointment like Neosporin to help prevent infection.

    BANDAGE TAILS

    Bandage the tail to contain the bleeding (and protect your furniture), and pad the injury to keep your pet from re-injuring the sore spot.

    Cat’s tails are particularly difficult to bandage, but for dogs, pull a clean cotton tube sock over the end of the tail. It should be long enough to cover two-thirds of the length of the tail itself. Then wrap tape over the sock, beginning at the tip of the tail and working toward the body, in a diagonal crisscross pattern. Be sure to run the tape two inches beyond the cuff of the sock and directly onto the fur. Finally, run the tape back down from the body to the tail tip, again in a diagonal pattern, which makes it difficult for the dog to pull off. This bandage technique (and others) are illustrated and described in pet first aid books.

    first-aid

    Change bandages at least every three days, or oftener if it gets wet or dirty. Apply Neosporin to the area with each bandage change. If the veterinarian recommends you leave the tail uncovered, apply the ointment two to four times a day since dogs and cats tend to lick it off. Some pets may need a prescription tranquilizer to calm tail movement until it can heal.

    A collar restraint also can keep him from chewing, licking or pulling at the bandage or tail injury. Or smear Vicks Vapor Rub on the bandage—the menthol odor repels most pets and keeps tongue and teeth at bay.

    Some injuries require that the damaged tail tip amputated. If that happens, fur tends to grow over the end and hides the loss. Your pet will never miss the, er, missing link.

    Make some changes in the pet’s environment to avoid a repeat of the tail trauma. Bigger dogs need larger areas where they can swing their tails without banging walls, or clearing off the coffee table.

    Has your dog (or cat) ever suffered a tail injury? How did it happen? What treatment was required? Do tell!


     

     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  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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care | Tags: ,,,,, | 8 Comments

  3. How to Love Your Cat

    February 15, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    Libby with tuxedo kitten
    Cats are great actors and try to convince pet parents they’re already purr-fectly healthy and happy. With cats, it’s Valentine’s Day every day and a good time to think “outside the litter box” and find special ways to love your cat.

    Your fur kids are more interested in playtime and fun activities, and these do help kitties both emotionally healthy and happy. Figure out what makes your cat purr delight. Depending on the cat, the emotional connection with their pet parents is top of the list. That’s not to say that all cats are cuddle-bugs or touchy-feely felines. For some cats, simply spending time in the same room and gazing with adoration is the ultimate in cat love.

    Cat comfort is another important issue for your pets. Every cat is an individual, so while one cat loves to swing from the drapes and meet new people, strangers could be a horror movie for other cats. A lot of that has to do with your cat’s socialization and parentage. One of the most generous resolutions is to accept each cat as an individual and adjust our expectations—and resolutions—to each special cat. Here are six ways you can share Valentine’s love and increase your cat’s purrs.

    Schedule Play. Not every cat enjoys play and mostly the youngsters under a year go nuts for interactive play. Cat teasers like fishing pole lures offer a great aerobic workout for cats. It gets them off their tubby tails to help slim them down. Play increases the bond you share with your cat and can boost the confidence of shy felines and burn off the energy of bully cats that pick on others. Cats play in short bursts so schedule 10 minutes a couple times a day to play with your cats.

    Provide Scratch Ops. Cats scratch to exercise, mark territory and relieve stress. Offering your cat legal scratching outlets makes her happy and keeps her physically healthy as well. Some cats won’t want to share their favorite scratch post so be sure you have at least one for each kitty.

    Offer A Bed. Cozy fuzzy beds make cats purr with delight. Set a bed under a lamp and you’ll be your feline’s favorite buddy ever! Older cats especially appreciate soft spots to lounge, especially since cats spend up to 16 hours a day napping.

    AudioCOVER-CAT copyProvide Hideouts. Cats love hiding spots. You can offer an empty box or shopping bag to satisfy many cats. Cat tunnels work great in multiple pet households to reduce feline stress, too. Cats don’t like other pets to stare at them, so a cat tunnel lets kitty travel “under the radar” to reach important locations such as the litter box. Cat tunnels can reduce the hissy behavior between cats since they don’t have to face each other. Learn more about soothing cat angst in the ComPETability: Cat book. It’s just been published in audio version, too!

    Create Entertainment. You wouldn’t think cats get bored but they evolved as hunting machines. Sleeping all day stores up enormous energy and indoor cats look for entertainment outlets. Set up bird houses and bird baths near windows for your cat’s viewing pleasure, as a sort of “kitty TV.”

    kitten 2Understand Kittens. I’m sure you’re already a savvy kitty “parent” but purr-haps you know someone who’d like extra help. As a Valentine’s gift for kitten lovers, I’ve dropped the Ebook price of Complete Kitten Care to 99-cents for Feb 14, 15 & 16.

    How do you love your cat? Are there special toys or activities that your felines particularly enjoy?
    Please also share the fun on Facebook.

     

    THE BLOG MAY BE TEMPORARILY OFF-LINE THIS WEEKEND–

    IT’S BEING MIGRATED TO A NEW SERVER,

    THANKS TO BLOGELINA!

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care | Tags: ,,,,,, | 13 Comments

  4. Monday Mentions: Furry Inspiration & Writing Help

    January 28, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    This morning I take the Magical-Dawg for his annual vet check up (shhhh, it’s a surprise!). He actually enjoys the whole deal (CAR RIDE? YESSSS!) and loves snort-snuffling the outside postage-stamp grassy patch where he reads the latest Pee-Mail for the best doggy gossip. Of course, he has to add his liquid comment to the mix. At least he doesn’t baptize the interior of the clinic, but does his best to announce, “Big dawg is here…y’all!” with explosive barks as he enters the door. I’m always a wee bit concerned some poor little Grandma will pass out from the shock, and then Magical-Dawg will smooch her back to consciousness.

    Seren-kitty got a virtual birthday card this week from the vet. She’s sixteen. Wow, the time has sped by but despite some hearing issues that increase the volume of her meow, and some arthritic claws, Seren looks and acts much younger. To celebrate, she helped me un-make and then make the bed (a favorite cat game) and then she got thoroughly wasted on some high quality ‘nip.

    How do you celebrate your pets’ birthdays? Actually we don’t know Seren’s real day, so picked one, and I know many folks who instead celebrate the pet’s “gotcha day.” At my house, every day’s a celebration. I couldn’t do what I do without my furry muses (those present and those still in my heart…) I just got delivery dates for the sequel to my thriller YAY! but that means I’ll be head-down (and head-banging) fictioning for the foreseeable future. My furry muses are primed and ready to inspire!

    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. I’ve been head-down recording the narration on my ComPETability/Cats book…yes, doing it myself! But when you’re not equipped to voice a project yourself, this article has great tips for choosing a VO professional. 

    WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

    What Facebook Interactions Say About You from the awesome Jenny Hansen

    Inkling to Turn Google into Storefront (is this a run at amazon?)

    Metaphor Mistakes from Marcy Kennedy

    How to Find Readers on Twitter

    Free Photos for Bloggers

    Author Marketing Club helps with “free” day site submissions

    Attack Reviews?

    Plagiarism 101 (you WILL be caught!) from the awesome Kristen Lamb

    Discussion of KDP Select with more discussion here and also here.

    Getting Sued for Making Schtuff Up?

    Vantage Press Closes one of the oldest “vanity” publishers, founded in 1949.

    PET-ASTIC SCHTUFF

    HARTZ Dog Treats Recall

    PSA Video on CATNIP DANGERS! (LOL!)

    Grants Available AKC Companion Animal Recovery Canine Support and Relief Fund

    New AKC Breeds Appear At Westminster!  See the show Feb 11 & 12 on tv…or win tickets and free passes!

    AKC Eukanuba Dog Show on ABC Feb 2nd

    Fighting Pet Obesity great article

    OFF-THE-WALL SCHTUFF

    Seeing Holy Images? from the seriously funny files of Piper Bayard and Jay Holmes

    And just to close on the same pet-tastic theme, I have to share this wonderful video of the great Ian Dunbar–on training, of course.

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Writing Advice & More | Tags: ,,,,,,,, | 13 Comments

  5. Monday Mentions: Cool Cons, Paws-some Promos & Viral Videos

    January 21, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    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. Today’s blog has lots of great conference links you’ll want to check out. And for your furry fix, be sure to check out the videos at the end, too. You won’t be sorry!

    WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

    Paradigm Shift a must read for all writers from the awesome CJ Lyons

    6 Ways to Promote Books on a Budget

    To Acknowledge or Not a somewhat cranky opinion (IMO!) and yes, I include ‘em. Folks can always skip reading, if they want. Do you include them in your books? (Thanks to Kathy Owen for the link)

    7 Steps of Sales a good refresher for writers these days. Thanks to Diane Capri for the link.

    Pinterest Promotions thanks for the link from Maria Polson Veres

    StoryCartel.com offers a way for reviewers and readers to find books via an electronic file. LOST AND FOUND is one of four free titles featured this month for review.

    LR-AudioCover

    I’m still trying to figure out how to get the audio version of the thriller book and audio of the kitten care title to reviewers–any tips/ideas?

    ISBN 101 everything you need to know

    It’s mid-January and the calendar for 2013 is FULL of wonderful conferences and events. Have you made your choices and reservations yet?

    The Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) annual Awards Banquet is the night before the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Sunday, February 10, 2013. This year my work has been nominated in three categories, for best newspaper column, best website, and best radio podcast. The DWAA is a great organization for those who write about dogs to network and support each other.

    Wana-Conference-new2-1024x553

    WANA stands for WE ARE NOT ALONE and is the brainchild of the energetic social media maven Kristen Lamb. I took one of her email courses on blogging some time ago and it’s changed the way I work and expanded my reach! Kristen and her team have a “virtual” conference planned WANA CON, so if traveling for you is outside your budget, this may fit the bill. More information here.

    blogpaws

    Yes, there are conferences for pet-centric folk, too. If you’re a blogger who includes any sort of CRITTER in your content (or maybe your pets take over the keyboard now and then), you’ll want to check out BlogPaws. I’m saving my pennies and hoping to finally attend this next one. This is a year-round organization that supports and offers education to pet bloggers on all the must-knows, so even if you have a conference conflict, check out BlogPaws.com to connect with other pet lovers. Click the banner to learn more about the conference.

    OWFI

    I’m an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. and was president for its 40th anniversary event five years ago. It’s one of the most economical conferences around, and where I found my awesome agent many years ago. This year as a speaker I discuss THE REINVENTED WRITER, covering all the new ways to publish, promote and SUCCEED as a modern writer. I hope you’ll join me. (And yes, I’ll wear sparkles :) )

    Thrillerfest

    ThrillerFest VIII promises to be one of the best conferences of the year. Maybe I’m a weeee bit prejudice, because I met my editor and publisher at my first ITW event–and this year, I’ll be in the Debut Author Breakfast Panel celebrating publication of LOST AND FOUND! Yes, dreams can come true. Check out this wonderful guest blog by another ITW and awesome thriller author Alma Katsu to learn more about the event.

    PET-ASTIC SCHTUFF

    Awesome video about orphan bat baby, thanks to Serena Dracis for the link

    Fascinating look at wild dog interactions with baboons. Is this how it started with humans and dogs?

    From the dog’s point of view…this is AWESOME!

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Writing Advice & More | Tags: ,,,,,,,,,,,,, | 7 Comments

  6. Newborn Kitten Development

    January 11, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    Turn about is fair play–the blog discussed newborn puppy development last Wednesday so today we look at the cat-egorical side of things. Besides, it’s a great opportunity to share SQUEEE! cute kitten pictures!

    Roar

    "I said STOP IT ALREADY!" Image Copr. Florence Ivy via Flickr

    Social play with Mom and siblings begins now, and includes running, rolling, biting, wrestling, climbing, and jumping. Mom-cat and siblings let the baby know if he bites or claws too hard and they’ll hiss at him or put an end to the game. If you are the “mother figure” it’s up to you to teach Baby about the litter box, playing “nice” and eating grown-up food.

    Kittens gain two to four ounces a week from birth to five to six months of age. The kitten immune system is also fully developed by six to eight weeks of age, while the immune protection he gained from Mom begins to fade.

    Play and interaction with others takes over during weeks five to seven. Good experiences with people and other pets during this time ensure they’ll be well-adjusted adult cats. It’s ideal for kittens to stay with their littermates and mother until twelve weeks of age so they learn best how to get along with other cats, and learn all the important “cat rules” of the world. But very often, shelters need the space and adopt out babies earlier–or the kitten is alone in the world anyway, and benefits from being adopted earlier.

    When you adopt a kitten at this age, it’s up to you to expose him to a wide range of situations so he’ll be willing to accept them as he ages. That’s called “socialization” and can mean the difference between a loving pet and a scaredy cat.

    He should learn to accept being handled and groomed by you and strangers, so the veterinarian won’t have to fight him for an examination. This is the best age to train him to accept the cat carrier and leash. That allows him to travel with you when necessary, either to the vet or groomers, or across town to visit Grandma. And if you think another pet (dog or cat), or a child might be in your future, introduce him to positive experiences at this age. That way, he’ll accept them as a normal part of his world and you’ll prevent behavior problems down the road.

    How hold was your cat when you adopted him? Have you ever needed to hand-raise a kitten? What do you think is the best age to adopt–and why? 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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care | Tags: ,,,,, | 10 Comments

  7. Monday Mentions: Review Ops, Writerly Linkage & Pet-astic Shares!

    January 7, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    .
    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!

    Lost and Found CoverWhile 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)

    How to Combat Book Piracy

    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.

    Advertisers Playbook

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Theater & Performance, Writing Advice & More | Tags: ,,,,,,,, | No Comments

  8. Cat Show, Cat Adoption & 13 Cat Videos!

    January 4, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    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!

    Category Ask Amy Videos, Cat Behavior & Care | Tags: ,,,,,, | 12 Comments

  9. New Year’s Pet Resolutions

    January 2, 2013 by Amy Shojai

    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.

    DSC00009

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care | Tags: ,,,,,,, | 6 Comments

  10. Monday Mentions: Author Hate, Furry Love & Thanks

    November 19, 2012 by Amy Shojai

    Complete Kitten Care Book CoverHey, it’s Thanksgiving week, and I’m up to my furry chin in to-do lists. The next two weeks will be crazy-busy for me and probably for y’all, too. I just uploaded my first audio book along with updated (in color) photos on the Kindle version of Complete Kitten Care because I wanted the SQUEEE! kitten pictures to be available with the newest Kindle Fire versions et al. I’ll let you know when the audio book becomes available at Audible.com–I’m told that will be in two to three weeks.

    I have some fun blogs planned this week for Woof Wednesday (taking your doggy to visit relatives–what to do & what NOT to do), and Furry Friday (holiday safety including Christmas tree tips for pet lovers). I’ve tried to put together some posts ahead of time to clear my schedule to record the AUDIO BOOK VERSION of my thriller Lost And Found.  THANK YOU so much to everyone who has “adopted” my debut thriller and posted such glowing reviews. Nearly 250 readers have also added the book to their “to-read” list. Paws crossed they enjoy reading it as much as I did writing the story. Oh, and that’s another reason for blogging ahead–I simply must get started writing the next September and Shadow book. HINT: I’m listening to readers’ comments and suggestions so the next book also hits a furry home run.

    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.  Enjoy! And please have a safe, happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.

    WRITER-CITY SCHTUFF

    Why Publishers Hate Authors an entertaining and enlightening read from Author Beware

    Sleuthfest Saturday in February time to start planning your 2013 events calendar and this one looks like a winner

    Romance Novel Convention looks like another good option in August 2013

    On Turning DOWN a Pub Contract food for thought

    Creative QR Codes–Make ‘Em Work for You

    Getting More “Likes” and “Follows”

    Debut Novel Success, A Case Study this is fascinating, authors will want to read this one

    NaNoWriMo Tips from Jenny Hansen (you’ll want to follow this blog, trust me!)

    Blogger/Brand Relations notes from BarkWorld by paw-some pet blogger and social media maven Dr Lorie Huston

    EBook Promotions 101 from Gordon Kessler, lots of terrific info here.

    Revolutionary Characters, an awesome post from Kristen Nador

    Amazon Reviews–The Good, The Bad, The Clueless? another discussion of the review removal situation

    Giving the Gift of Ebooks–with Livrada a new way of doing things

    Crazy Writers & Creativity

    Pinterest Promo Tips for Writers

    PET SCHTUFF

    9 Common Buggy Myths a great list and info for pet lovers from one of my fav bloggers Pet Health Gazette

    Hank The Cat Got 6000 Votes in the recent senate race…now that’s one cool kitty!

    Presidential Cats a list from history, fun stuff

    What Dogs Want in a Toy boy did they nail this one! Magical-dawg could have written this!

    Don’t forget to ENTER the Lost And Found Book Basket Give-Away, deadline November 25, for your chance to win a pet-centric basket of goodies and paw-tographed copy of the thriller book!

    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!

    Category Cat Behavior & Care, Dog Training & Care, Writing Advice & More | Tags: ,,,,,,, | 9 Comments

Older Entries
Newer Entries