Online - June 17, 2009

In Dog We Trust

Everywhere Dog Guide 2009

A real friend would never post prom pics of you with big bangs and squeezed into a pink sequin mermaid gown on Facebook. Reward your interweb-illiterate pup for being a true pal.

Friends present each other in the best light.
From her Texas studio, gifted gal Stephanie Lewis combines Photoshop and watercolors to turn snapshots into heartwarming pet portraits. Just e-mail her a picture of your pooch (or cat or bird or chicken), and in just one week she’ll snail mail you something bowwow wonderful.

Friends don’t let friends wander around willy-nilly.
Keep him close with a Found My Animal leash. Made of rope (not leather, thank you very much), the leads are finished to perfection with brass hardware and nautical whipping. And the best part: 25 percent of profits goes toward spaying/neutering animals waiting on adoption.

Friends pamper each other.
TrueBlue has a line of gentle, high-quality grooming products that are hypoallergenic; biodegradable; and free of detergents, sulfates, parabens, or artificial colors. The shampoos; conditioners; and eye, ear, and teeth wipes are nice enough to use on yourself.

Friends don’t care if you’re Republican or Democrat.
Find a new pal online at muttslikeme.adoptapet.com. While you’re there, download Shepard Fairey’s Adopt icon, based on his famed red, white, and blue Hope poster. Print it out, post it on your blog, and spread the word about homeless pets. There are also limited-edition, signed screen prints for sale.

Friends know when to say goodnight.
After a long day at play, tuck him into a beach ball bed. It comes in three color combos and sizes from Maltese to mastiff. It’s a fun way to say “sweet dreams.”

And thank you for being a friend.