http://www.sheknows.com/authors/virginia-chavez/articles Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/988699/top-earth-friendly-pet-brands Pets are made of nothing but love, loyalty and tenderness. If they could talk, they would make excellent activists for the greater good. Now you can be that voice for them, with products that embrace everything your tree-hugging pet loves. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/988699/top-earth-friendly-pet-brands Virginia Chavez Wed, 17 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/988545/animal-loving-country-stars More than just cowboy boots and big hair, many country music stars are known for having Texas-sized hearts with a soft spot for four-legged sidekicks. Some love their pets so much, they’ve become activists for the cause. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/988545/animal-loving-country-stars Virginia Chavez Mon, 01 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/987809/must-have-wedding-accessories-for-pets The perfect outfit wouldn’t be complete without fabulous accessories to complement it and your big day is no exception to the rule. Once you’ve completed your ideal wedding-day look, don’t forget the second most important member of your wedding party, your pet. These must-have accessories will help bring your wedding-day style to furry-perfection. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/987809/must-have-wedding-accessories-for-pets Virginia Chavez Mon, 01 Apr 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/987525/top-5-wedding-outfits-for-pets Your dog has been there for you through thick and thin, and your big day wouldn’t be the same with out your four-legged sidekick standing by your side. As an integral member of your wedding party, you’ll want to make sure your pup looks the part. Whether you’re hosting a formal affair or a laid-back reception, your pooch will look almost as amazing as you in these fabulous wedding outfits. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/987525/top-5-wedding-outfits-for-pets Virginia Chavez Sun, 24 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986327/must-have-spring-accessories-for-pets The sun is shining and the weather outside calls for a fashion update. While you’re busy picking out the season's hot items, don’t forget about your most valuable accessory, your pet. This spring, we’ve got your tail covered with the hottest accessories in pet couture so you can both step out in style. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986327/must-have-spring-accessories-for-pets Virginia Chavez Tue, 26 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986257/top-5-pet-friendly-spring-break-vacation-spots Time to shake off those winter boots and soak up the sun on a spring vacation. Before you book your trip, don’t forget about the cuddly pets that helped keep you warm all season long. These sun-drenched locales have everything you need for a fun-filled getaway with your four-legged best friend. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986257/top-5-pet-friendly-spring-break-vacation-spots Virginia Chavez Fri, 22 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986181/meet-the-breed-irish-dog-breeds Still looking for that lucky four-leaf clover? We’ve found it for you, in the form of a lucky four-legged friend. These top Irish dog breeds are loving, loyal and will surely charm their way in to your heart. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986181/meet-the-breed-irish-dog-breeds Virginia Chavez Mon, 25 Mar 2013 06:00:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986177/find-the-best-dog-for-your-family With hundreds of breeds classified by the American Kennel Club, how is a future pet owner to choose? Not to create any "cliques" in the dog world, but pets are like children, so to help out, we’ve broken down AKC’s dog breed groups high-school style. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/986177/find-the-best-dog-for-your-family Virginia Chavez Wed, 06 Mar 2013 08:52:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/983487/pooch-smoothies With the right ingredients, the same energizing smoothie that gets you up and running in the morning can be shared with your pooch. Just like the human kind, smoothies can provide excellent health benefits for our four-legged friends. The health benefits of certain fruits and vegetables can put a spring in your dog's step — you may even find yourself with a new furry running partner. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/983487/pooch-smoothies Virginia Chavez Mon, 18 Feb 2013 03:38:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/983477/sxsw-pet-scene Headed to enjoy a week of music and film at the Austins' South by Southwest festival? The world’s music capital that vows to keep things weird also proudly ranks among the top 10 pet-friendly cites in the nation and SXSW offers no exceptions. If your pet loves crowd surfing as much as you do, we’ve got the lowdown on the best pet friendly locales in town. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/983477/sxsw-pet-scene Virginia Chavez Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:18:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/980425/new-years-resolutions-for-pet-owners While you’re busy jotting down your resolutions for the new year, don’t forget the furry friend at your side giving you a paw of encouragement. Whether it’s running your first marathon, eating healthier or taking on a new hobby, your pet could be hoping and wishing to make it on your list of resolutions. Believe it or not, Fido and Fluffy have a few bullet points on their to-do list that might match yours. Let us be the first to tell you exactly what your pet hopes for in 2013. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/980425/new-years-resolutions-for-pet-owners Virginia Chavez Mon, 24 Dec 2012 03:03:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/979845/meet-the-breed-bull-terrier A breed that’s hard to miss this holiday season. If Bull Terriers make you think “Target,” you’ve hit the Bullseye, metaphorically speaking. Bullseye, the official spokes-dog of the Target brand is one of many in the line of famed Bull Terriers. From William the Conqueror, better known as General Patton’s loyal sidekick Willie, to the beer loving Spuds Mackenzie of Bud Light commercials in the 1980’s, Bull Terriers have the personality and charisma fit for television as well as any loving, active household. Find all about the the captivating Bull Terrier. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/979845/meet-the-breed-bull-terrier Virginia Chavez Fri, 07 Dec 2012 09:20:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/978745/best-winter-coats-for-pets Our furry friends get cold, too. They may be covered in fur but facing the winter elements requires added reinforcements. Yes, some dogs are perfectly equipped to handle cold weather climates and can self-regulate their internal body temperature. However, not all dogs are created equal. If your pet shivers in discomfort at the mere thought of going outside, it’s time to go shopping. When the weather outside is frightful, your pet will surely find these snug jackets quite delightful. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/978745/best-winter-coats-for-pets Virginia Chavez Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:39:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/974747/can-pets-have-ocd Admit it. You've gotten a chuckle or two out of watching your pet chase his tail. Maybe even caught it on video to share with friends and family. Silly habits like tail-chasing are cute and funny but certain incessant behaviors can be cause for concern. Obsessive-compulsive disorder isn’t limited to humans. For our sweet fur-kids, diagnosing the issue takes a watchful eye. Common behaviors might actually be signs your pet has OCD or, as some like to call it, canine compulsive disorder . http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/974747/can-pets-have-ocd Virginia Chavez Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:21:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/974059/meet-the-breed-german-shepherd This noble beast has more to offer than meets the eye. Strong, smart and charismatic, the German shepherd was built for excellence both inside and out. With rugged good looks and a loyal heart that won’t quit, this breed has been known to make a living on camera and on the field. A true working dog, German shepherds thrive on showcasing their natural talents. With a solid reputation for intellect and loyalty, there’s nothing this breed can’t accomplish. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/974059/meet-the-breed-german-shepherd Virginia Chavez Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:29:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/973271/beer-and-wine-for-pets Yet another reason to include your best friend in a timeless pastime, Happy Hour. What sounds better after a long hard day at work than an ice cold beer or a glass of fine wine? Only being able to sit back, relax and enjoy the fruits your labor alongside your trusty four-legged pal. Pop open a bottle of any of these nonalcoholic, pet-approved cocktails and treat your pet to a round. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/973271/beer-and-wine-for-pets Virginia Chavez Mon, 24 Sep 2012 10:22:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/971419/national-dog-week National Dog Week is Sept. 24 to 30. What does this mean for you? Nothing. This week isn't about you, it is all about dogs. Get your leashes, harnesses, treats and toys ready for a weeklong celebration of all things dog. While you're loving on your cuddly best friend, don’t forget about the less-fortunate four-legged angels looking for forever homes. The purpose of National Dog Week is twofold -- pay homage to the pups that enrich your life by showing responsible pet ownership and do your part to help dogs in need. We'll help you make the most of National Dog Week. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/971419/national-dog-week Virginia Chavez Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:06:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970901/meet-the-breed-boston-terrier Born and bred in the U.S., the all-American Boston terrier, is the first homegrown breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. These four-legged sweethearts are the product of post-Civil War creation resulting from a cross between an English bulldog and the now extinct white English terrier. With a history rich in our nations roots, let’s stand up and salute the Boston Terrier. Here’s everything you need to know about the breed. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970901/meet-the-breed-boston-terrier Virginia Chavez Sat, 10 Nov 2012 04:20:00 -0800 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970413/top-10-record-breaking-dogs Think your dog is the very best? That might be true, but these canines have the medals to prove it. These top 10 Guinness World Record-holders possess incredible and often odd talents. Some can thank Mother Nature for their God-given abilities while others simply honed-in on their unusual skills. Either way, our list of top-dogs truly gives us look up to . http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970413/top-10-record-breaking-dogs Virginia Chavez Fri, 07 Sep 2012 07:22:00 -0700 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970201/teach-your-dog-to-walk-in-booties Your dog needs shoes. Despite the naysayers and anti-dog shoe advocates, our pet's paw pads aren’t made of stone and need a little TLC. Domesticated family pets aren't used to toughing out rough terrain and extreme weather like their wild-natured counterparts. Keep outings fun and safe by protecting your pet's delicate paws. Learn all about the art of teaching your pet to walk in dog boots. http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/970201/teach-your-dog-to-walk-in-booties Virginia Chavez