REVIEW: goDog Toys

goDog Toys

Where to Find: goDog

While you're busy checking your list (and checking it twice), don't forget all of the nice pups longing for toys this holiday season.  We recently received two from goDog that we'd like to tell you about...

The Green & White Peppermint

from the Holiday Collection

The Purple Clam
from the Shellfish Collection






Both toys feature the awesome Chew Guard Technology that goDog is known for.  In case you've been living under a rock, or uh-hum, a clam shell perhaps, Chew Guard Technology is a special manufacturing process that adds a super tough, durable liner to soft plush toys, making them strong enough to stand up to even the toughest play.  (The technology is also being used in their new line of dog beds)

These are not the first goDog toys to enter the Lapdog household, so we can truly attest to the durability of the Chew Guard Technology.  Other plush toys have come and gone (some quicker than I can blurt out "Nooooo... don't unstuff it!"), but goDog toys stand the test of time, and four large Lapdogs... including a couple who enjoy the unstuffing process a little too much.  Serious kudos to whomever came up with this amazing technology... it works! 

Sure, no toy is completely indestructible, but the bottom line is goDog toys are tough and they last much longer than most other toys.  They even offer a guarantee, via a one-time replacement if your goDog toy does not outlast a standard plush. 

Both the Peppermint and Clam are being well-loved in our house, and that makes me smile.  My pack has two overflowing baskets full of toys, and as they age they're not quite as playful as they once were... but Mr. Clam and Minty (ok, so I'm not very original... pffst) are being played with or carried around on a daily basis.  That speaks volumes to me, and as a result Santa has purchased a couple of other goDog toys this year.

The squeaker in the Peppermint has bit the dust, but other than that, it's held up just fine.  Sophie is extra tough on squeakers and seems to have "killed" this one, but amazingly without putting any holes or tears in the toy itself.  Normally when she "kills" the squeaker, it's dissected from the toy at the same time.  I'll call this battle a tie - Sophie .5 / goDog .5 - and honestly, what's the problem with one less squeaker in the house?

The clam is still squeaking and holding strong.  As a native to a small fishing town in Massachusetts, I smile a little bit more about my pack playing with a clam.  The fact that it's purple, well that's even more reason to smile. 

The Lapdogs give goDog toys their official 16 Paws Up Seal of Approval - and the humans toss in a couple of thumbs for good measure.  Forgo the $1 toy bin this year and get your dog a goDog plush toy for the holidays... neither of you will be disappointed!


Disclaimer: Quaker Pet Group sent the 2 dog toys shown above to Lapdog Creations for review purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW: goDog BedZzz

goDog BedZzz

Where To Find: goDog

When we were asked if we'd like to review the new line of goDog BedZzz, I jumped at the chance!  I don't know about your household, but our 4-doggy household has beds in both the living room and bedroom (and, no, that doesn't mean dogs don't find their way onto the couches and human bed), and finding ones that hold up to large dogs has always been a challenge.

goDog BedZzz are designed to fit most standard size crates/kennels, which made them all the more intriguing to me (but of course, that doesn't mean you have to use them in a crate). Teutul is the only Lapdog who still spends time in a crate - mostly when we're at work, and only because, despite his age, he's still a bundle of energy and it's the easiest way for me to ensure Zeus has a peaceful day while I'm not home.  Plus, Tut doesn't seem to mind and goes right for his crate when he knows I'm leaving in the morning.

Anyway, back to Tut's crate bedding.  In the past he's chewed holes in the beds and pillows to "de-stuff" them, so I had switched to blankets.  When I found out the goDog BedZzz were made to stand up to "tough love," I knew we had to try one!

goDog BedZzz are made with the same awesome Chew Guard Technology used in their toys (which I already know holds up to the Lapdogs).  This proprietary process adds a tear-resistant mesh lining that is guaranteed to stand up to even the toughest chewers!  It's super squishy too... and addictive.  They attach a sample to the tag and I find myself "squishing" it from time to time... like a stress ball, only better).

"goDog BedZzz are GUARANTEED to last longer than standard soft plush beds or we will give you a free one-time replacement! Guarantee valid for 30 days from purchase date. Shipping and handling fees apply."

goDog BedZzz are available in 6 sizes, XS (18" x 13") thru XXL (49" x 30"), and several color options.  I opted for the XL size, which is 43" x 28" and intended for 42" crates.  When the box arrived, I was a little skeptical as it seemed to be pretty small.  In fact, I had thought they forgot the bed (we also received some wonderful goDog toys for review  - stay tuned to hear about those next week)!  Much to my surprise, this really big, super squishy bed popped out when we opened the box!

Oh my... I know many folks wish for scratch 'n sniff internet, but I wish we had touch 'n fluff internet.  I can't even begin to tell you how soft and squishy this bed is!  Not only were all 4 of the Lapdogs immediately interested in it, but I was too!  I *might* have even pushed a dog to the side and claimed it as my own for a minute... or five! 

I think Tut was a little confused at first.  He gave it a chomp and realized it had the squishy chew-guard stuff inside, then started trying to carry it around the house like a giant stuffed bear.  We had a little talk and I explained this was not a squeaky toy, but the most comfortable bed he will ever have... and he seemed to get the hang of it.

We used our goDog BedZzz during the last bits of deck-lounging weather this fall, then moved it into the living room.  I wanted to ensure that Tut truly realized it was a bed and not a toy before moving it into his crate.  That will happen this weekend...

goDog BedZzz do not have a removable outer shell, however the whole bed is machine washable (air dry flat, then re-fluff). 

If there's a special little - or big - doggy on your holiday shopping list this year, do consider a goDog BedZzz!  They will love you for it (after you get off of it and give it back to them, of course).

Disclaimer: Quaker Pet Group sent one Bedzzz XL dog bed to Lapdog Creations for review purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats

Where to Find: Chewy.com

Sure, the Lapdogs carry on and on, barking like loons every time the nice man in the big brown truck shows up... but as soon as they see the familiar Chewy box, they forget all about the human intruder! 

This month we received a bag of Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats from our Chewy buds.  The Wilderness Trail line has many options, including Biscuits, Wild Bits, Jerky, and Dental Chews.  Heck, they even have options for the frisky felines, but the Lapdogs say they have no use for those treats.

For our review, we picked the Grain-Free Turkey Biscuits.  Made in the USA with no corn, wheat, or soy, these perfectly sized crunchy treats are high in protein and sure to please all of the meat-loving canines of the world.... or at least that's what Tut thinks.  He says if your dog is so crazy that he doesn't like them, you can always send him the leftovers... (my boy has no shame). 

Besides the fact that all Blue Buffalo treats are Made in the USA using only high-quality ingredients, this doggy Mama loves the adorable paw print stamped into each biscuit.  Seriously, how cute are these (and my old ham who still happily obliges when Mama asks him to sit still and balance treats on his head)?

The Turkey Biscuits come in a resealable 10-oz bag, and at just $5.99 from Chewy, they are a very affordable option to add to your cookie jar! 


Sophie and her siblings have all let me know they would like to add Blue Buffalo Turkey Biscuits to their cookie jar more often... and they think you should too!

Remember, 1-2 day shipping is always free at Chewy.com when you place an order of $49 or more.  Now's the time to stock up for the holidays... for your own pack, as well as all of the furry, 4-legged family members and friends on your Nice List this year!  



Disclosure: Chewy.com sent a bag of Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats Grain-Free Turkey Biscuits to Lapdog Creations, free of charge for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own. 

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: How to Knit & How To Crochet

How to Knit

by Leslie Ann Bestor

Paperback: 112 pages

Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (August 26, 2014)

How to Crochet

by Sara Delaney

Paperback: 128 pages

Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (August 26, 2014)

"Crafting is unique in its ability to involve many different areas of the brain.  It can work your memory and attention span while involving your visuospatial processing, creative side, and problem-solving abilities." - Catherine Carey Levisay, a clinical neuropsychologist and wife of Craftsy.com CEO John Levisay

If you already knit or crochet, you've seen the craft have yet another surge of popularity in recent years.  It's no wonder.  Between recent studies linking crafting to brain function, and the tough economy that has so many hunkering down at home, fiber arts seem like a no brainer.  Instead of just being a consumer of goods, you become a manufacturer or goods - and have hours of fun while doing so! 

The popularity of handmade items has also soared in recent years. It's certainly more personal to create and give a special gift, versus a gift card to a mass merchant.  Knit and crochet items are even taking over the high-fashion runways. Gone are the days of the dreaded - yet now treasured (that is, if any of them survived) - "grandma knits."  Everyone wants handknits!

With so many newbies interested in fiber arts, Storey Publishing has added two new titles to the Storey Basics series; How to Knit and How To Crochet. Whether readers are complete newbies, or looking to expand their horizons from knit to crochet, or vice versa, these handy books are the perfect reference guides.

One of my favorite things about these books is their perfect little, handy size.  Each measures a mere 5" x 7", making them great for at home or on the go - they fit in most purses and project bags! Each features clearly written instructions, as well as helpful graphics and illustrations.

How to Knit is divided into 6 chapters:

1. When You're Ready to Cast On
2. The Basic Stitches: Knit, Purl, and ... Slip
3. Shaping Up Your Knitting: Increases & Decreases
4. We All Make Mistakes
5. Getting Down to the Tools and Materials
6. Learning to Decipher Patterns

How to Crochet is divided into 8 chapters:

1. Getting to Know Your Materials
2. Getting Started: Forget the Chain!
3. Chains: Your Foundation
4. Basic Crochet Stitches
5. Gauge
6. Working in the Round
7. Perfecting Techniques
8. Pattern Reading

If you're looking to learn to knit or crochet - or both - these are must have books for your library!  They also make great gifts for those friends who keep telling us how much they want to learn, but "just don't have the time" for classes.  In fact, a book, skein of yarn and some needles or hooks would make a perfect crafty holiday gift!  You could even package it all inside a hand knit (or crochet) stocking!

Whether you want these books for yourself or to give as a gift, don't miss out on your chance to win them below!

About the Authors:
Leslie Ann Bestor is the author of the best-seller Cast On, Bind Off and a knitting teacher and store manager at WEBS, America's Yarn Store. Many of her designs have been featured in books and magazines. Leslie currently lives and knits in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Sara Delaney has been crocheting since she was 7 years old. She studied clothing design and construction for 3 years. She's been teaching sold-out crochet classes at WEBS since 2007, where she also wrote the core curriculum for their crochet courses and workshops. Sara designs and publishes her patterns independently, as well as through Coats & Clark and WEBS. She lives and blogs in Belchertown, Massachusetts.

GIVEAWAY!

How would you like to win a copy of How to Knit or How to Crochet?  Thanks to the great folks over at Storey Publishing, I get to give away a copy of each!

 

To Enter: 

• Leave a comment below indicating which book you would like to win and why -- is it for you or to give as a gift?  (please be sure your comment includes a way to contact you in case you are a lucky winner)
  
• Get a bonus entry for tweeting about this giveaway. Leave a separate comment with the link to your tweet in it. (get 2 bonus entries if your Tweet is a little more creative than just a straight link to this post)
  
• Get a bonus entry for liking the Lapdog Creations page on Facebook and commenting on any post on the page. Leave a separate comment indicating you did so.

Contest is open through Saturday, November 15 at 11:59pm eastern time. Winner will be picked by random number generator.

Disclaimer: Storey Publishing LLC sent 2 copies each of How to Knit and How to Crochet to Lapdog Creations for review and give away purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW: Holiday Hats for Babies

Holiday Hats for Babies

Caps, Berets & Beanies to Knit for Every Occasion

by Debby Ware

Paperback: 128 pages

Publisher: Taunton Press (September 2, 2014)

What knitter can resist casting on a super-cute baby hat - even with no particular baby in mind at the time? I know I sure can't, and with the release of Holiday Hats for Babies: Caps, Berets & Beanies to Knit for Every Occasion, my to-knit list just got even longer.

The first thing that grabbed my attention with Holiday Hats for Babies, besides that adorable pouty face on the cover, was the fact that this is a book full of patterns for all holidays... not just the "major" ones.  Heck, not even just the sub-major ones.  Arbor Day Cap, anyone? 

The 25 patterns in Holiday Hats for Babies are divided into four seasonal sections:

1. Winter is Wonderful - covering Christmas, Hanukkah, all things snowy, Valentine's Day and St. Patty's Day (note to the editors: the Mother's Day "Cup of Love Hat" pattern in this section clearly missed it's proper location)
2. Spring Has Sprung - covering all things flowery, plus April Fool's Day, Easter, Mother's Day (a second offering apart from the misplaced hat noted above) and Father's Day
3. Summer and Other Celebrations - covering 4th of July and birthday celebrations
4. Fabulous Fall - covering Arbor Day, Halloween and leaf-peeping

Of course, if you know me, you know I went straight to the Fabulous Fall section.  The "Leaf Peeper Cap" is simply adorable and the "Witch's Hat" is a must for any little lady in your life.

Other patterns that really stood out to me include the "Peppermint Candy Cap," a sweet treat for Valentine's Day and beyond, the "Spring Has Sprung Hat," complete with pink roses on the top, and the "Fourth of July Top Hat," which proudly shows off your tiny-tot's patriotic side.

Whether you are a beginner or advanced knitter, the patterns in Holiday Hats for Babies are for you.  Whether you want to try out new skills, or cast on what you would consider a "mindless" knit, each project has clear instructions and beautiful color photos to guide you through.

About the Author: Debby Ware is an author, designer and life-long knitter who has been crafting baby clothing for more than 20 years. She owns and operates Debby Ware Knitwares, an online shop devoted to fun and charming knit kits.  Debby resides in Edgartown, Massachusetts.

Disclaimer: Taunton Press sent a copy of Holiday Hats for Babies to Lapdog Creations for review purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW & COUPON: Righteous Hound Dog Breed Apparel

Righteous Hound Dog Breed Apparel

Where to Find: RighteousHound.com

What dog Mom doesn't love to sport a great tee, showing off her love of all things dog - whether it be breed, cause, or some other 4-legged cuteness (and yes, this goes for doggy Dads too)?  I know I sure have a vast collection!  So, when the folks at Righteous Hound offered one of their tees for review, I was thrilled! 

The majority of Righteous Hound's designs are breed specific and listed in alphabetical order, however they also have quite a few non-breed designs as well.  As a Mom of four rescued mutts, I tend to lean towards those non-breed specific designs, but when I spotted the Women's Rescue Pit Bull tee, I had to have it.  I love how it is just the silhouette of a bully breed looking dog, without the "label."  And, of course, the "RESCUE" part is right up my alley!  

There are a few of the non-breed designs that I loved, however they are currently only available on white shirts... and if you know me at all, you know that I am clumsy not a white-tee wearing girl!  If the folks at Righteous Hound are paying attention, please, please, please offer the 100% Mutt and #ADOPT Women's tees in another color.  Oh, and while you're at it, how about offering the Rescued By A Dog style in women's sizing?  I'd love to add all of these to my collection... most especially that #ADOPT tee!

One of the first things I noticed when my tee arrived was the tag indicating the shirt was Made in the USA by American Apparel.  It's hard to find clothing made in the USA, and even more so when it comes to fun companies like Righteous Hound.  A big, big kudos to the company on this one!  

The women's tee does run on the small side, which is well noted on their website (another big kudos).  I opted to order a couple sizes up on this one and am happy with the fit.  

Check out Righteous Hound for loads of fun designs!  They offer free shipping on all USA orders, which is a rarity with smaller companies.  And, as if made in the USA doggy tees and free shipping weren't enough to get you in the mood to shop -whether for yourself or for those dog lovers on your holiday list this year - they are allowing me to share a special discount offer with you, my readers.  Just enter coupon code Lapdog15 at check out for 15% off your entire order - but hurry, this offer is only good through November, 9, 2014!

Disclosure: Righteous Hound sent one ladies t-shirt to Lapdog Creations, free of charge for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own. 

REVIEW: Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels

Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels

Where to Find: Chewy.com

Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels used to be a staple in our house back when Zeus & Lola were youngsters.  I'm not really sure why they've fallen off our radar, but when I saw them as an option for treats to review from our pals over at Chewy.com this month, I knew we had to get them.

And, I'm pretty sure my seniors remembered the vibrant garlic smell as soon as I tore open the bag!  What do you think?

Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels are exactly as the name implies.  A hard, crunchy bagel shaped dog treat, with a very distinct garlic flavor (seriously, these smell almost good enough to toast and cover in cream cheese).  These vegetarian bagels are made with spelt wheat, barley, pumpernickel and real garlic.  The bagels are quite large in size, as you can see from the photos, however they can easily be crunched up into smaller bites.

As I mentioned, we used to buy these treats all the time.  We were first turned onto them during a sampling event at one of our local pet food stores.  As a doggy parent, I loved that they were made in the USA with only the finest quality ingredients (Solid Gold was one of the first pet food companies in the United States to use all-natural ingredients in their products).  The fact that Solid Gold puts dried bay leaves inside the bag to help keep the bagels fresh was just icing on the cake.  As taste testers, Zeus and Lola both instantly loved the garlic-y goodness.  And now, Sophie and Tut are enjoying them as well.

We'll definitely be adding Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels back into our treat rotation! They come in 14.4oz re-sealable bags that stay fresh for quite awhile.  Check them out over at Chewy.com, where 1-2 day shipping is always free on orders of $49 or more! We just stocked up on our canned food and I have to say, free shipping on a box that heavy, plus having it arrive on our doorstep within just a couple of days, is truly wonderful!  Thank you Chewy!  Zeus thanks you too, after all it was his favorite canned food that just arrived.  He thinks all of the doggies in blog-land deserve some Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels!

Disclosure: Chewy.com sent a bag of Solid Gold Garlic Doggie Bagels to Lapdog Creations, free of charge for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own. 

GIVEAWAY WINNER! Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree

Thank you to everyone who enter to win a copy of Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree!

A winner has been chosen by random number generator.  Congrats to Heather.  I can't wait to hear what you think of the book and hope you'll continue to follow the blog and our Facebook page!

Stay tuned for some more great upcoming reviews and giveaways, including How to Knit, How to Crochet, Solid Gold Doggie Bagels, Holiday Hats for Babies, Righteous Hounds shirts, and more!

REVIEW: Clearview Dog Fence Solution

Clearview Dog Fence Solution

Where to Find: Dog Fence DIY

Does your dog spend his days wondering if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence?  Perhaps he can hear critters rustling around, but because of your solid surface fence, he can't see what all the fuss is about?

With Clearview Dog Fence Solution, now he can! 

The Clearview Dog Fence Solution is a unique and innovative solution for curious dogs!  This 9.5" diameter clear acrylic bubble provides your dog with a 360 degree view of the outside world. 

Clearview Dog Fence Solution helps alleviate your dog's natural curiosity and can be installed in about an hour.  The bubble window comes with a durable black rubber seal, as well as all of the hardware you need.  If this type of DIY-project isn't for you, don't worry.  The manufacturer has list of providers nationwide who can be hired to install one for you. 

The versatile bubble is easy to clean and won't fog or fade. It has been designed for use with wood, panel, vinyl or PVC fencing, as well as with concrete.  And, because you can install it at any height you would like, it's really a "one size fits all" solution for most any dog.  (note: the manufacturer does not recommend this product for extra large breeds, such as Great Danes and Mastiffs)  Clearview Dog Fence Solution is also weather resistant - it has been designed to resist high heat, as well as temperatures below 0 without cracking.

From the manufacturer's website:

• Pros

1. Reduces barking and other boredom behaviors
2. Compatible with wood, PVC and other fences
3. Highly durable low maintenance

• Cons

1. Requires basic carpentry tools for installation
2. Difficult to install on metal fences
3. May not be enjoyed by extra large dogs

We did not actually install our Clearview Dog Fence Solution, as we do not have a full wood fence.  However, we had some fun testing it out regardless.

The Clearview Dog Fence Solution retails for $59.95 and currently has a free shipping offer.  If you've got a solid fence, throw your dog a bone... and let him see what he's missing on the other side! 

Disclaimer: Dog Fence DIY sent a Clearview Dog Fence Solution to Lapdog Creations for review purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree

Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree

by Edie Eckman

Paperback: 184 pages

Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (September 9, 2014)

It's that time of year again... Knit & Crochet book season!  Of course, that means it's hurry-up-and-get-crafting-for-the-holidays season as well.

This holiday season, crocheters will be filling their homes (and probably the homes of their friends, family and co-workers as well) with festive, fresh, contemporary decorations thanks to Edie Eckman.  Edie's newest book, Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree is packed full of 18 patterns for ornaments, stockings, garlands and more!

As the title would suggest, the projects in Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree are divided into three sections.  Both beginners and experience crocheters will find projects to suit them.  To make things as simple as possible and ensure crafty success, patterns that are good beginner projects are clearly marked "Easy" at the top of the page.  Each pattern includes a symbol chart, description of the stitches used, and stunning full color photos of the projects.  Different crochet styles are used throughout, including beaded crochet, novel stitch patterns, tapestry crochet, and Tunisian techniques. 

While I do not crochet, I have a fond appreciation for those who do... and I've already got several items "wish-listed" for my Mom to make! 
The Bird Trio would make great ornaments or decorations for anywhere in the home (and can easily be used year round)....
The Beaded Garland would look stunning in red on my little table-top Christmas tree...
The Advent Garland is absolutely adorable (after all, what could add more warmth to any home - or yarn store, or coffee shop - than a string of socks and mittens to "dry by the fireplace")...
And the stockings and snowflakes are all absolutely stunning!

As I said, I do not crochet, but I highly suggest adding Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree to your library if you do!  Whether you're looking for a quick project, to make heirloom stockings, or a batch of bows to adorn all of your gifts this year, Edie's patterns shine through!   

About the Author: Edie Eckman is the author of best-selling books The Crochet Answer Book, Around the Corner Crochet Borders, Beyond the Square Crochet Motifs, and Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs, as well as coauthor of Crochet One-Skein Wonders.  Edie is a nationally known teacher, designer, writer, and editor in both the crochet and knitting worlds.  She currently calls Waynesboro, Virginia home.  You can catch up with Edie via her Facebook page or website.

GIVEAWAY!

How would you like to win a copy of Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree?  Thanks to the great folks at Storey Publishing, I get to give away a copy to one lucky reader!

 

To Enter: 

• Leave a comment below indicating why you want to win. Be sure your comment includes a way to contact you (link to Google+, your blog or an email address), in case you are the lucky winner!
• Get a bonus entry for tweeting about this giveaway. Leave a separate comment with the link to your tweet in it.
• Get a bonus entry for liking the Lapdog Creations page on Facebook and commenting on any post on the page. Leave a separate comment indicating you did so.

Contest is open through Sunday, October 19 at 11:59pm eastern time. Winner will be picked by random number generator.

 

Disclaimer: Storey Publishing LLC sent 2 copies of Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home & Tree to Lapdog Creations for review and give away purposes.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.

REVIEW: Primal Dry Roasted Dog Treats

Primal Dry Roasted Dog Treats

Where to Find: Chewy.com

The Lapdogs all gathered around when the latest box from our friends at Chewy.com arrived. Sure, they think every box the nice man in the brown truck brings is for them, but I swear they recognize that Chewy logo!

Our latest offering for gobbling up review was Primal Dry Roasted Dog Treats.

The Primal Pet Foods treat line was created for dogs and cats with the goal of providing wholesome, human-grade snacks containing no preservatives, gluten or grain. 

The Primal brand is completely new to us, and I was excited to learn more about them.  When I found out that all Primal Treats are produced using USDA meats, poultry and game raised in the United States and New Zealand, without antibiotics or added hormones, I knew we had to try them!

Primal Treats are available in quite a variety of cooking styles, as well as protein sources including venison, buffalo, turkey and chicken.  We chose the Primal Dry Roasted Buffalo Liver Chunks for our review. Made with just one ingredient, United States raised buffalo liver, these healthy, high-protein treats are something I feel good about giving to my pack.   

And, clearly, my pack feels pretty darn good about eating them!  The only thing I would say might be a slight drawback is these treats are hard to break into smaller bites, however that was no problem at all for the Lapdogs.  They happily gobbled up the buffalo liver bites with no complaints!

If Buffalo Liver Chunks aren't the perfect size, or the right protein for your pack, don't worry.  There are many other Primal Treats to choose from!  Perhaps the Chicken Shredders, Venison Lung Puffs, or Turkey Liver Munchies are a better fit?  You can find them all over at Chewy.com, where 1-2 day shipping is always free for orders of $49 or more!  If you haven't done your autumn treat stock-up yet, Zeus wanted to let you know that now is the time!!


Disclosure: Chewy.com sent a package of Primal Dry Roasted Buffalo Liver Dog Treats to Lapdog Creations, free of charge for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own. 

GIVEAWAY WINNER! Faux Taxidermy Knits

Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Faux Taxidermy Knits. 

The winner has been chosen by random number generator.  Congrats to Andrea at Wonder Why.  I can't wait to see what you knit up first!

Stay tuned for some more great upcoming reviews and giveaways, including PetSafe's Indigo Smokehouse Strips, Righteous Hounds shirts, Holiday Hats for Babies, Primal Dry Roasted dog treats, and more!

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Faux Taxidermy Knits

Faux Taxidermy Knits

15 Wild Animal Knitting Patterns

by Louise Walker

Paperback: 128 Pages

Publisher: David & Charles (October 10, 2014)

I am honored to have been asked to be a part of the Faux Taxidermy Knits blog hop.  Not only do I get to review this super creative knitting book, I also get to give away a copy to one of you (more about that later)!

I first became aware of Louise Walker's fun designs through her Instagram feed where she regularly posts photos of her hand-knit critters.  Having ooh'ed and ahh'ed at just about every picture posted, I was very excited when I heard she was working on a book of her patterns!

Faux Taxidermy Knits is a collection of 15 unique designs, divided into 2 sections: Wearables and Habitat.

The Wearables section includes the Fox Stole pictured on the cover, an intermediate project.  I can't help but chuckle at the description, "Drape this faux fur stole over your shoulders to release the foxy lady within."  Indeed!

If you're ready to channel your inner Davy Crockett, the Raccoon Hat is just what you need!  This beginner project is a fun one that you could whip up in no time while watching TV. Talk about a cute way to stay warm this winter - just add comfy sweater, jeans and boots!


Maybe you like to live life on an even wilder side?  The Wolf Headdress is for you!  You'll certainly turn heads while keeping your own warm this winter.

If you're not quite ready to wear your wild side, perhaps the Crocodile Make-Up Bag is more your style.  This cute little number is ethical and adorable!


The Habitat section includes several amazing items for your home.  I'm a little partial to the Moose Head, but others might find the Pheasant to be more easy on the eyes... especially given the fact these winged friends knit up quite quickly using super bulky yarn.  Create an entire flock to give as gifts this holiday season!

While I haven't had a chance to cast on any of these wild creations just yet, I have added the Bear Coasters to my short to-knit list!  These mini faux-skin rug-like creations are simply too cute for words!  Each little cub is knit in two pieces, then seemed together and stuffed.  Oh my... I need to make a whole little bear family!

Are you ready to get your needles clicking on your own wildlife creations?  Enter to win a copy of Faux Taxidermy Knits below!

About the Author: Louise Walker is a London based designer recognized for her animal creations and photo series 'Wooly Heads'. Since launching Sincerely Louise in June 2013, her work has been featured in publications including Tatler, the Daily Mail and the Sunday Express. She has been commissioned by Boden, Phileas Fog, Crafty Magazine and even a few celebrities.  Visit her Facebook page here.  Check out Faux Taxidermy Knits and other creative titles from Stitch Craft Create here.

GIVEAWAY!
Win you very own copy of Faux Taxidermy Knits! Thanks to the great folks over at F&W Media International Ltd, I get to give away a copy of the book to one lucky reader!

To Enter:

• Leave a comment below indicating why you want to win.  Be sure your comment includes a way to contact you (link to Google+, your blog or an email address), in case you are the lucky winner!

• Get a bonus entry for tweeting about this giveaway. Leave a separate comment with the link to your tweet in it.

• Get a bonus entry for liking the Lapdog Creations page on Facebook and commenting on any post on the page. Leave a separate comment indicating you did so.

Contest is open through Thursday, September 25 at 11:59pm eastern time.  Winner will be picked by random number generator.

Photo Credit: Photography ©F&W Media International Ltd

Disclaimer: F&W Media International Ltd. sent a complimentary electronic copy of Faux Taxidermy Knits to Lapdog Creations for review purposes.  They are also providing a hard copy book to the winner of this contest.  I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.