Travelin' Jack's Dog Blog

XOXO This Kiss is for YOU! "Jack's Smacks" Kissing Booth

2012-02-15T07:41:00.000-08:00

ROSES ARE RED

VIOLETS ARE BLUE

KISSES ARE SWEET

AND THIS ONE'S FOR YOU!

Travelin' Jack here.....right off the Kissing Trail. YUP-pup that's right! This dog knows how to smooch----and for a cause too!
Awhile back I had a dog-serious conversation with Bob Gerding.....Top-Dawg Producer of the Bob Gerding's Outdoor Adventure Show.
I said to Bob....."You know, it's gonna be Valenntine's weekend...and what better time for a kissin' pooch to raise some moneys for the 4-footed furry kids in the shelter. Doggone it I'm gonna host the JACK'S SMACKS Kissing Booth....if you don't dog-mind!"
And Bob said..."Sounds good to me Travelin' Jack" and VOILA.....the all new kissing booth was born!

So...to get ready for the big weekend, I called on my Personal Tie-Maker, Miss Deb...and that wonderful, dog-fabulous Tie-Artist went to work! My very OWN dog-personal Jack's Smacks Love Tie!

And WHAT BETTER WAY to start off the Show with a TV spot...on Jack's favorite show New Mexico Style! on KASA Fox TV. Kristin the dog-fabulous Weather Gal (my favorite BTW) interviewed little ol' Moi....and she was the very 1st Recipient of a dog-ficial JACK SMACK! Check it out!
http://www.kasa.com/dpp/nm_style/features/bob-gerdings-outdoor-adventure-show

SHOWTIME!
Gotta get comfy in my Kissing Throne! HMMMM looking pretty cool if I do bark so myself!

Here they come. Here's my first Sweetie. I'm gettin' puckered up for the Kiss!

And it's not all just about the chair either! I sat down on the job with this great little gal!
You're not gettin' away....NO WAY!

Here's another sweetie-pie!

Watch Out....here I come!

How's this for a pose before the big SMACK!

Luvin' your antlers.....and you too of dog-course!

I know how to get all the cuties, don't I?

And the guys too! Hangin' cooL with the boys!

Another down-n-dirty encounter. Are you ready for some tongue?

Luv his smile! My kinda guy!

And the ladies love me too! MWAAAHHH!

Did you say KISS??????

More Guy Time!

and another smiley cutie
1

WoW. This gal got her face painted JUST for a Jack Smack!

                                                    Some fun time with my buddy OTTO.
                  He was tying flies for the fishermen in his booth and took a bit of time to visit me!
                                                        Thanks for the Kiss Otto!

I think this little guy is ready for the big hunt! Don't you?

And THE REAL THING. These two ladies from the Albuquerque City Shelter brought by a couple of their ADORABLE ADOPTABLE pups! I had a chat with the pups about staying positive! Someone WILL adopt you and you'll have a wonderful forever home and family!

Anyone out there lookin' for some cutie pie puppies? They're ready for you!

Back to work....gotta get some more kisses in.

Awwww.....she likes me she REALLY REALLY likes me! Here I come with a Kiss.....

Now this here guy is TOPS in my books! He and I go back a ways on a little dog-venture! Thanks for the sleep-over at your house! You're just too KOOL!

And then my favorite hotel bud comes along! Here's a Jack-Smack for you Ed!

And another friend, Bob the History Re-enactor. Let's talk about some together-time, OK Bob?

And finally, some more new friends, this bro-sis duo helped out with a donation and of course a Jack-Smack kiss or two too!

Yup...it was a doggone grand success...this kissing booth idea of mine. We raised about $375 for the Kids in the Shelter...supported 3 different organizations
                                          Animal Humane of New Mexico (Friday)
                                          Watermelon Mountain Ranch (Saturday)
            and of dog-course The Albuquerque City Shelters (Sunday)

Yup--pup, JACK'S SMACKS Kissing Booth was a dog-grand success! But let me tell you....

I'm worn out from all this kissin...................zzzzzing out till I recover! Talk to you again real soon!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

STAYin' SUNNY in Las Cruces!

2012-02-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Howdy there from this travelin' bulldog! Why I've been so busy travelin' around New Mexico that I've gotten a bit behind in my dog-blog-travelogue-ing! SORREEEE! But truth be barked...I've been havin' one dog-dandy time visiting LOTS of great places.

When I last left you...I was headin' out of Dodge (well Albuquerque really but that sounds too good not to steal that line!) headin' south to SUNNY Las Cruces. But as you know..this is one fast trackin' pup and I LUV to multi-task, so while we're traveling south, I've got my nose to the grindstone lookin' at those pics on the NM Tourism's "GET THE PICTURE" Challenge!

AHA! Found one! But I'm not tellin'....if you want to participate in this REALLY fun contest...you'll have to snoop out the locations on your own. This dog's wantin' to WIN Big-Time!

And enroute, we made some dog-scovery stops along the way. First Stop!    Ft. Craig National Historic Site......goes back in New Mexico's history ya know! This is one groovy find for me! Besides touring the ruins of the old fort, I got the Royal Dog treatment by Miss Lynn...the Person-To-Know at Ft. Craig! Why she even got out her trusty "MULE" here and took me on a private tour. (Don't tell Miss Lynn this...but I think she's got her mule knowledge confused. This DON'T look like any four-footed braying buddy that I've ever seen!) HMMMMM. But it sure does ride nice! And everyone knows Travelin' Jack DOES like special attention!

And after our tour of the Ft. Craig ruins, why she even invited me INSIDE the Visitor Center! Now THAT's what I call PET-Friendly big time! AND the good news is that she didn't do this just because I am Travelin' Jack...They invite all good dogs inside! Pretty doggone cool in my books!
But time's awastin'...and I need to get to SUNNY Las Cruces before the Sun Sets in the Old West!


First Stop ...well the Las Cruces Visitor Center OF DOG-COURSE! They have ALL the scoop on the best places for a dog to visit (oh-and people too!).   The Staff here was a dog-dandy help in showing me all the fun places to explore! Thanks Mr. Chris....I'll sleep on this before I dog-cide every place to go!  But now it's time to check in for the evening. I'm heading straight to Hotel Encanto and can't wait to check it out!

It's one of the numerous pet-friendly Heritage Hotels that are scatttered all around New Mexico! If you are travelin'...you'll want to check them out for dog-sure!

And in true 1st Class Customer style...I got greeted by the VP of Heritage Hotels himself....Mr. ED! Talk about a warm welcome for a pup! Thanks for the fine introduction to Hotel Encanto....great start to my visit! Let's see how ELSE this hotel ranks for Pet-Friendly. You all know how dog-scriminating Travelin' Jack is! I need to know it all!

Checking into my room! WoWee-Dog-zowee! Look at these digs wouldja? Pretty doggone Snazzy if ya ask me! And I got a ground floor room....with my own private patio! And easy outside access too! Now that's pretty pet-friendly, I'd say!

But WOAH-Nellie! Take a look at this find wouldja? Doggie Treats in the room...just for me! My gift box included my very own blanket, food bowl, some doggie biscuits, a 'WOOF Doggie inside' Door Hanger, a Pick Up bag for those outdoor duty-calls moments. NICE touch Heritage Hotels! You got my BARK!

I was dog-mazed to also see a Tequila shooter too....bein' the good pooch I am, I don't drink...so I passed that little in-room amenity on to Jill. Seems she enjoyed it! So both of us are doggone happy to get here..and ready for a good night's sleep.......Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Mornin' ...and breakfast time for the pooch! Now listen up close here! This Hotel Encanto is SO doggone pet friendly that they even have inside courtyard dining where the dogs can dine with their people! Pretty nice touch if ya ask me!

Why hello there Miss Midge! Did you bring that plate of goodies to me-Travelin' Jack! You sure are a smiling image of a sun-shiny start to MY day! Thanks a dog-zillion!

WoW! I ate so MUCH of that yummy breakfast that I need a little snooze time by the pool! YAWN ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ. Way relaxing in sunny Las Cruces!

But afternoon is upon us....I need to get to work and check out the pet friendly places in Las Cruces. So back to the Visitor Center I go. This time Mr. Chris and I sit down in their pets-allowed center.....even on the sofa for us lazy types!....and we get down to dog-business.

He gave me a hint on the "Get the Picture" challenge. Said there just MIGHT be a spot at the Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. It's not a pet friendly museum (too many live animals and other stuff) but I did get a snapshot in....and another MATCH! Yah!

But now I'm heading out for some dog-venturing. There are MANY pet-friendly hiking areas in and around Las Cruces. We picked the Sierra Vista Trail....and it was one mighty nice find! Great trails right at the foot of the Organ Mountains with lots of great scenery and........

WATCH OUT.....lots of sharp prickly Cacti too! Here's Travelin' Jack's dog-vice for the hiking pup:

Keep Your Feet On The Trail...and Your Nose Out of Trouble!

Another night's upon us and it's down time....once again in my cozy room. The next morning dawn's sunny...what a surprise! (not really...just tryin' to throw a little dog-humor in here ya know!) JUST maybe that's why they call it Sunny Las Cruces! DUH!

I'm sportin' my brand new Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail T-shirt that I WON from the NM Tourism Department. Don't I look dog-snazzy? YUP fer sure!

But we're not wastin' time this morning.....and we head straight for the Las Cruces Farmers Market. One of the BEST markets in New Mexico! And that's not me talkin! That's what the votes said in America's Favorite Farmers & Market Contest! I gotta dog-gree too! And it's REALLY pet friendly! Take a look at this little cutie enjoying the open air market. This is THE place to be seen if you are a cruisin' pup! Lots of dogs on parade along with the great stalls of veggies, food, arts & crafts and such! It's open every Wednesday and Saturday.

But now it's time to hit the road onward bound! I have to tell you, though.....I only scratched the surface of fun things for dogs and their people to see and do in Las Cruces. I'm comin' back soon...I dog-guarantee.

For now I'm buckled in to my seat and singin' "ON THE ROAD AGAIN....."

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

Ground Hog Day for this Dog!

2012-02-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

It's True....I'm not a Groundhog. But you just might say that I am a Ground Dog! See how low to the ground I am? (NOW that's a dog-dandy bulldog joke if I do bark so myself---HA!)

But dog-seriously, it's not to say I don't have a thing or two in common with the sage Punxsutawney Phil!

Yes, it's true that he wears the Top Hat for being "The Seer of Seers...the Prognosticator of all Prognosticators" and he did declare to the world today that because he saw his shadow....there will indeedy be 6 more weeks of winter!

"How does that have anything to do with you Travelin' Jack?" you are sayin' about now? Well here's the thing. I got up doggone early to tune into the TV to see what my groundhog buddy had to say....BECAUSE....

while I'm NOT the Seer of Seers....or the Prognosticator of All Prognosticators I AM.....(drumroll here)...... Travelin' Jack-the all-knowing Roving Bulldog Reporter!
And on this Ground Hog's Day I'm hitting the road on another dog-venture!

I can't wait to hit the highways, the byways, the villages and the landmarks of New Mexico! Yep, we're exploring the "Land of Dog-chantment".....as I would say!

We're heading south.....while P. Phil might see some shadows...I'm heading to the land of sunshine.....Las Cruces! There's a reason why they say "STAY SUNNY" in Las Cruces....and I'm in search of those sunny days and warm February temps. Yup-Pup....I'm gonna get some "sunning" in on this trip!

And I've booked my Pet-Friendly Room at the bee-u-tiful Hotel Encanto .....it's stylin' time for this travelin' pup! The Heritage Hotels are TOP PAWS from what I've seen on my research......I'll report back to you following my trip and give you this low-down dog's review with full dog-details!

I'll be snoopin' around the area too......in addition to catching some rays...I'll be on the lookout for those pesky unidentified photos in New Mexico's "Get the Picture" Challenge. Gotta get my quota of FOUND FOTOS on this trip ya know. So....I'll be exploring pretty doggone hard too! I'm thinkin' Old Mesilla might just have something hidden there awaitin' for me!

And then I'm winding my way up through New Mexico....passing through Ruidoso and Lincoln and some of the old west sites along the way......again, lookin' for those photo ops for the Challenge!

So,  before I hear Jill yell "HIT THE ROAD JACK"...I'm gettin' my bags packed (with all my favorite goodies, food, water, toys, blankets & dog-cetera----your pet travel tip of the day )

                                               Don't Forget To Pack for the Dog Too!
                                       .....and now I'm ready to roll!

                            So THERE Punxsutawney Phil....ya got NUTTIN' on this Travelin' Dog!

See ya' down the highway! I'll be reporting back soon!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

"GET THE PICTURE"---Got It!

2012-01-26T06:55:00.000-08:00

OKee Dokee Doggie! Another Challenge for Travelin' Jack. As you know....New Mexico is celebratin' it's 100th Birthday of Statehood! Hot diggity dawg!

On January 6th we hit 100 years young....and still lookin' good I might add!

So in celebration of this landmark, New Mexico Tourism decided to launch a Challenge...to EVERYONE....dogs included of course....cause we're SUCH a pet-friendly state!

The challenge....to 'get the picture' 2012 style! They have posted 100 old-tyme photos (100 years/100 photos....get the connection?....just makin' sure ya know!) that are scattered all around our 'enchanting' state. So now it's my--your---anyone's chance to show off their knowledge of many of our state's great places. And snap a photo in the process.

So.....you know me.....I LUV a challenge! And I'M ON IT! The contest started a couple weeks ago and lasts till OCTOBER 12th!....so I have time to 'HIT THE ROAD JACK' in search of all these 100 locations (whew....it's a lot of paws-ing around this big state so glad I've got some time!)

So far I've snagged 3 photos

                       # 11 in the Photo Gallery

      # 5 in the Photo Gallery

            #2 in the Photo Gallery

.....but HEY...I'm just startin'.....97 to go!!!!!! This should be DOUBLE DOG FUN! Why as Jill and I are tootlin' around the state....I'm keepin' a sharp dogs-eye out for these places! And I'll get MY mugshot taken there! And add it to the List!

So.....off we go...ready for another rompin' rousin' ride around New Mexico!

You can follow my progress on Facebook. I'm gonna post each and every picture of MOI in the latest pic...once it gets a MATCH from the folks at NM Tourism!

You can join in too! It's LOTS of fun...and there's a grand prize of $10,000 too....did I dog-mention that! Now THAT's a lot of doggie biscuits ya know?!?!

But I'm doin' it for the fun...and the LUV of my bee-u-tiful state!

So....it's not too late to get travelin' around New Mexico and to get snappin' those photos! Here's the link for the contest. http://getthepicture.newmexico.org/

Oh and don't come asking ME where the secret spots are! I'm not TELLIN' where these locations are!....ya' gotta find 'em for yourself....just like ME, Travelin' Jack! If I   can do it....well then....I'm a-thinkin' so can you!

Gotta go now...time to hit the road in search of my next picture MATCH!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

PS (Pup-Script) IF I should be so doggone lucky as to WIN the contest...I'm donatin' 50% of the moneys to New Mexico Animal Welfare! I have lots of kanine and kitty kusins that need food and shelter till they find their forever family! And that money could go a LONG LONG WAY to helpin' my furry friends!

HUP-2-3-4 REPORTING FOR DUTEEE!!!!!

2012-01-18T19:22:00.000-08:00

K-9 Sarg T-Jack ON DUTY!

Yup duty calls for all good Americans to honor our Military...both Present and Past,so...................

...when the fab-taboulous WWI Traveling Exhibit came to town.....like any good canine soldier...I reported for duty!

Jill and I headed right for the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque Balloon Museum...where this great traveling exhibit stopped in for a quick tour of our area.And talk about KOOL......

....this was one PAWSOME exhibit! But before we put our paws to work..we took a quick tour of the exhibit ourselves. Dogs were even invited inside this traveling exhibit...pretty doggone cool in my book...don't you agree!?!

Of course...no visit to the Balloon Museum would be complete without a little snuggle time with the Balloon Queen herself....Miss Jen......Let's get snuggly here a bit on this frosty morning okay?

And I just HAD to show off my fabulous give-away of the day...CHANCE the Luv-A-Pet from PetSmart as well. See CHANCE there...sitting nice and patiently on the chair till I draw some lucky winner ....wish it could be MY NAME that is drawn...but they say that just isn't dog-llowed. POOH!

I guess I'll just get to work greeting folks visiting the WWI Traveling Exhibit...like these great High School Kids who came to learn all about WWI. Hey...you guys are just too cool. Thanks for coming by to visit me and share some hugs and kisses!

And then it was time to SALUTE my favorite canine troopers and the doggone best patriotic group around! PAWS & STRIPES. They help connect returning veterans with service dogs..."helping dogs helping heroes" Now THAT there is one too-cool group! You got my vote.......and whatever $$s I raise today! Hope we get LOTS of moolah for the service dog kids!

I just LUV visitin' with kids of all sizes and ages! You know KIDS can still be KIDS even when they are big! And I just LOVED these grown up kids from the Cornucopia Adult Day Care Center who came by to visit me! We had a dog-licious time kissin' and huggin' and snugglin'....ain't that right guys! You are the BEST! Thanks for comin' to visit Travelin' Jack today....and the WWI Exhibit too of dog-course!

But now it's time to get back on Guard Duty...so I'll resume my post here.......and make sure everyone gets the proper WELCOME at the fab-tabulous WWI Traveling Exhibit.....I hope YOU made it out to see it too!

Signing off now......Sarg T-Jack....back on duty....HUP-2-3-4........

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

2012-01-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

Travelin' Jack here at the New Mexico Boat RV and Travel Show...settling in to do some dog-serious business at the Albuquerque show that's ALL about FUN! As Dog-Governor of New Mexico...and THE pre-eminent pet travel guru..it's my job here to make sure EVERYONE gets in on all the fun! And let's start with a big SMILE, eh? By dawg...I think these gals have got it!

Time to get down to dog-business! After a quick and friendly meeting with the BIG Boss...Mr. Jim...coordinator of the Event and his dawlin' Sidekick....we agreed on LOTS of things...

....like I should KISS every kid that came by..

MWAAAGGHHH! There's a Jack-Smack for you guys! Thanks for visiting me!

and paw-digraph a copy for every family my award-winning book Travelin' Jack's Story...From Shelter to Star!

and even give away CHANCE the PetSmart Luv-A-Pet plush gi-normous doggie every day! WoW! Talk about a lucky gal! Sima won this one..and she was sure happy! But who wouldn't be? That's one cool dog-dude! And if you hurry you can still get your own at PetSmart..before they all sell out!

Yes...I was settlin' into the job mighty nice..visitin' with all the fab kids and folks..when WHAT's THAT?

I was located right NEXT to the comedy cooking team MAC & THE BIG CHEESE! The Ultimate Camp Cooking Team. Now that's one fun-nee duo! I made friends with them right quick let me tell you! I'm no dummy....they've got FOOD!

But instead.....OH my DAWG....it was pure torture! I had to sit on the sidelines..watch these two crazy cooks/comedians tell jokes and cook up a storm! Do ya know how doggone hard it is to SMELL those yummy odors...to HEAR that snazzy sizzle.... and to WATCH all those other people scarfin' down the cookin? Why that is just not fair.....it's really RUFF to be right there on the sidelines. Hey Sorry ABQ Convention Center..if you notice some drool spots on the carpet.....NOT me...I dog-uarantee! HARUMPH! But all those folks in the audience sure did seem to like the food they cooked....but NO....I--Travelin' Jack---wouldn't know! I'm afraid I might just waste away....SO

I took things in my own hands...er paws...and dog-cided to check out this big-time BOAT Show! After all...I'm not wearing my Outward Hound Doggie Life Jacket for nothing!

Course I just HAFTA visit with the kids as I wander 'round all these doggone fabulous boats and RVs and stuff! How's this pose eh? And check out that snazzy motorboat behind me too! But now I got the itch....I need to check out one of these cruisin' babes up close so...

I headed right to Rocky Mountain RV & Marine.....Simply The best!

I like the looks of this one. Hey....Sir, could ya maybe show me how to DRIVE this Sun Tracker?

By Dawg...I think I've got it! LET's GO!

Wow..that was sure fun! Think I NEED to get one of these babes...for some fun times on the water!

But no wait...maybe I'd rather have one of these babes......ain't she a cutie! I know I gotta get back to work.

...Ya know it's a really RUFF job to greet all these friendly folks...but let me tell you....I sure did have a dog-dandy time at the New Mexico Boat RV and Travel Show.......can't wait to get back there next year. In the meantime......

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

Pet Blogger Challenge

2012-01-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

OK....I agreed to do this for Travelin' Jack.... he told me that if there were no bones in it for him.....furr-get about it! So 1) I agreed to give him a bone for his answers and 2) I agreed to type it up for him while he is happily chomping away....here goes for the 1st time Pet Challenge Blogger

Challenge Questions #1: For bloggers who haven’t participated before

1. When did you begin your blog? August 2009

2. What was your original purpose for starting a blog? Introduce moi....Travelin' Jack to New Mexico...as the up-and-coming Pet Travel Reporter...reporting on pet friendly locations, where to go, things to do and tips for traveling with your pet.

3. Is your current purpose the same? Yes, although it has also expanded to including pieces on pet safety, animal welfare education and some pet product endorsements.

If so, how do you feel you’ve met your goals? We've gone down roads we never imagined....dog-literally......WAY beyond our original goals. It's been a fun adventure down every winding path, even though my paws are tired from all that walkin'.

4. Do you blog on a schedule or as the spirit moves you? Sort of as the spirit moves me., sort of on schedule. I do one or two a week...the day of week can vary depending on my dog-mood, my crazy busy dog schedule and of course the whims of my person...Jill.

If the former, how often — and what techniques do you use to stick to it? First I like to dog-cide my topic. Then I go through my photo gallery to pick out some favorite photos of MOI..the travelin' dog. Then I always (or almost always) write it first thing in the morning, right after I've eaten my morning pooch cereal.....sharp mind ya know!

If the latter, do you worry about… well, whatever you might worry about (e.g. losing traffic, losing momentum)?

5. Are you generating income from your blog? Not yet...but Jill has been fussin' at me about getting some sponsors...so we think that will come in 2012.

If so, how (e.g. sponsor ads, affiliate relationships, spokesperson opportunities)?

If not currently, do you hope to in the future — and how? It will dog-definitely come if there are some tasty bones added into the bargain!

6. What do you like most about blogging in general and your blog in particular (bragging is good!)? I LUV knowing that all my fans....in New Mexico, in the US and even beyond these great borders...can follow my pup-ventures...and they can get a chuckle from my photos....maybe a few aaaawwwws along the way too! It also let's me tell the world about my upcoming events too!

7. What do you like least? Finding the time....I AM a working pup after all! And then also justifying the time it takes to write a doggone serious blog. You know...for every minute I am workin' away on the computer...that's one less person that I can give a Jack-Smack to....(kiss for those of you not in the know!)

8. How do you see your blog changing/growing in 2012? Hopefully with paid sponsors...and more followers. I LUV followers and fans! And this dog has a lot more tales/tails to tell...er bark about! Stay tuned for more Travelin' Jack adventures in 2012! You can also follow me on my website http://www.travlinjack.com/

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

HONK HONK!!!! Happy 100th Birthday New Mexico!

2012-01-06T14:12:00.000-08:00

11:35 AM JANUARY 6, 2012!

New Mexico is havin' a Birthday! 100 Years Old to be dog-xact! And we are a celebratin'! The City of Albuquerque put out the call to everyone to honk their horns at dog-xactly 11:35 AM....so Yup...you guessed it....TRAVELIN' JACK was there!

And I was honkin' up a storm...with all my new friends at the Lomas Tramway Library! We ALL had a doggone grand time cheering in the birthday wishes to NEW MEXICO! You know they call our bee-u-tiful state the Land of Enchantment...but not ME! Nope! Travelin' Jack calls it the "Land of Dog-Chantment!" Because it IS! It is the most pet friendly state anywhere...I dog-arantee!

But HOW did this grand birthday Centennial party all come about today? Well...I'm glad you asked. OUR dog-personal little Centennial party was planned by Miss Cheryl M....Children's Librarian at the Lomas Tramway Public Library! What a gal! She sure does know how to throw a Paw-tee! For Kids...and for Dogs too! (well at least li'l ol' me!)

We had our very own Story Hour party too!

Jill read my book "Travelin' Jack's Story...From Shelter to Star" and I paw-digraphed the book for the kids!

And let me tell you...we had some cuties there! Don't believe Me? Take a look at this little gent....AND his name was Jack too! Pretty doggone cool in my dog-journal!

And what about this little doll? I'm sure dog-smitten with her...easy to see why too, eh?

And whoo-whee....I even got one of the little angels to READ to me! I'm listen' sweetie? Hurry...can't wait to hear the ending!

Why I--Travelin' Jack--even got to participate in a story! I played MR. COYOTE! And I was a doggone good coyote too...let me bark to you!

Yup Pup....This doggaroo had one swell time Honking in the 100th Birthday of our Statehood!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NEW MEXICO!

Thanks a dog-zillion to ALL my fellow partiers! Let's all celebrate again this time 100 years from now!

But now I'm off again.....Next Adventure.....

New Mexico Boat RV & Travel Show at the Albuquerque Convention Center! I'll be paw-digraphing books and doling out slurpy kisses today from 4-6PM and Saturday and Sunday from 12 Noon to 2PM. SEE YOU THERE!

Here's to a Doggone GRAND 2012!

2012-01-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

HowDee there....and a little belated WELCOME to 2012! (I'm still recoverin' if you don't mind!)

Yup-pup there was a lot to celebrate winding down a grand year--2011....and this dog is no slouch...we partied in the New Year at the Elkhorn Lodge in Chama...big bonfire by the Rio......lots of folks, big and little, drinking bubbly juice and roasting marshmallows....we had a burning ceremony to burn up all the BAD things from 2011 (I didn't have any as I had a doggone GRAND year!)...and there were even pups at the party. We heralded in the New Year early...didn't want to be outside at Midnite when they started shooting off those crazy fireworks...none of THAT for me thank you very much!).

Yep it was a great holiday....We also played in the snow at Sargents' Wildlife Refuge in Chama. Great 20,000 acre playground for pups and people too. We saw some cross country skiers...but we just played Snow races and......


                                       ..gotta admit...I ate a little of the white stuff too!

BUT NOW it's 2012! And this dog is startin' off on a roll! I'm booked at the BIG TIME....New Mexico RV Boat and Travel Show!

SEE....here's the proof....and you can print this off for a $3 discount to the show too! What a doggone good deal eh? I'm gonna be paw-digraphin' my book (given out FREE to the 1st 30 kids each day of the show)....and I'll also be doling out Jack-Smacks (that's kisses for you not in the know!)....and other fun stuff too! So be sure to COME to this BIGGEST....BEST....travel show in the state! And be sure to come visit me too! I'll be there all 3 days...see hours on the flyer!   Can't wait to see you there.

And this is just startin' the good times rollin!  I have MANY fun things planned for the year....can't let Jill get lazy...gotta keep her on her toes and behind the wheel...so we can share ALL the great places for you to visit in New Mexico! We're plannin' some double dog fun getaways! So keep on following my adventures...and I'll keep on writin' my pawsome reviews of places to go and things to do!

But for now....HERE's to a BULLY good year-2012!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

Christmas Dinner Delites & Howliday Dining Tips!

2011-12-23T06:44:00.000-08:00

Howlidays are so much fun....playing in the snow in new snuggly Christmas sweaters.....

Getting neat gifts to unwrap......

Like these Doggie Treats specially for me.....SWEEEEEET!

New Toys to play with......................Hot Diggity Dawg!

But maybe most of all.........HOWLIDAY DINNER!

It's High Time for this Chow Hound to get serious! And you can bet your doggies that I take this job VERY dog-seriously! You might remember from my other blogs that I was a Dog-Speaker this year at BlogPaws Pet Conference in Washington DC. I met up with LOTS of good folks and pet companies there.....and got to try out LOTS of tasty goodies.

You know I'm always barking about eating right......specially at the holidays...so after taste testing MANY different foods this year.....I told Jill what I wanted this HOLIDAY for MY VERY SPECIAL HOLIDAY MEAL...

I decided to go 'au naturalle' with a tasty Christmas dinner of DUCK & SWEET PEAS.....from by NATURE dog food. The good folks there have come up with Tasty AND Naturally, Nutritionally Complete Natural and Organic Dog and Cat Food. So BESIDES being very tasty......I'll dog-test to that fact!!!......it also helps keep your pet feeling young with a powerful mix of vitamins, & minerals and antioxidants .....in other dog-words it's just plain good any way you bark about it! But don't just take my word for it.....here's what experts say about by NATURE pet food....straight from TV.

They sent me my 1st bag to taste-test (let me dog-sure you....it PASSED my test with a High Paws rating.....but it's available right here locally at one of my favorite pet store haunts.....Long Leash on Life! Or you can find a store near you for by NATURE pet food too!

This year by NATURE is MY holiday meal for Christmas (and every other day too!) Double Dog YUM! I double dog dare you to find a better doggie meal anywhere! And I'll bet you some yummy doggie cookies on it even....(HA...I'm sure to win THAT double dog bet--tee-hee!)

But.....Christmas is here. And it's time to eat! So while I'm enjoyin' my special Duck & Sweet Pea doggie meal from by NATURE ....read on for some of my other dining hints for ways to keep your pet safe during the holidays!
                                                       TRavelin' Jack's Pet Holiday Dining Tips!
1) Stay on Schedule. Whether you are traveling away from home and visiting family or you're enjoying the holidays at home.....it's ALWAYS a good idea to maintain a regular schedule for your pet. They appreciate knowing they will get fed when their tummies start rumbling at the regular time...
2) Stay with your pet's normal foods.   Don't feed your pet new or unusual foods. Keep them enjoying their regular food. With so much commotion, the less change for your pet the better. If you are traveling, pack your pet's dry food as individual servings in baggies. Come dinner time, regardless of how busy, crazy the activity is...you can quickly feed your pet his regular diet by opening the baggie and serving it up for Fido! Quick...Easy...and everyone is happy!
3) Avoid human food! While it might be tempting to slip Fido a piece of yummy turkey...or let him enjoy leftover side dishes like potatoes or stuffing or gravy.....DON'T do it! These foods are heavy in calories (for both people & pets), and they are rich and could upset your pet's system & lead to gastrointestinal distress.
4) Feed Fido BEFORE your dinner! If your pet's mealtime is around the same time as your big holiday dinner.....feed him first. Then let him go take a nap in the bedroom while you enjoy your meal in peace. No begging from underneath the table that way!
5) THE BAD LIST of Foods to avoid for Fido. Foods such as chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, & onions can be toxic for your pet. Some can even be fatal if ingested in large amounts by your pet.
6) Share the message. While your friends and family might be well meaning in slipping a little extra food to your Fido, this is not a good idea. Advise your guests and family in advance that Fido is well fed, and does not need anything beyond his normal food!
7) No alcohol!   While this may seem a joke...it is not! Pets should NEVER be given alcohol. It is NOT funny to watch Fido weave and wobble around the holiday table...and even more importantly it is Dangerous for your pet! DO NOT allow anyone to influence YOUR pet with alcohol!
8) Visit a Vet! IF your pet has accidentally eaten or drunk something dangerous and is showing abnormal signs of distress....don't take a chance. Take him to a Vet! It's better to be safe than sorry...and there are always vets on duty around the holidays too! They are prepared for emergencies.

So...with all these good barks of advice.....I'm ready for the HOLIDAYS! How 'bout you! From your special friend.....Here's to a HAPPY HOLIDAY to each and every one of you!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

I'm Dreamin' of a White Dog-mas....AND a Last minute Doggie Dash to PetSmart!

2011-12-20T19:12:00.000-08:00

.It's beginnin' to look a lot like Dog-Mas....

"Why?" You ask. Well for starters! It snowed last night! I woke up from my doggie dreams to see a New Mexico Winter Wonderland all around me!
And for 2nds....I got a big box in the mail....a special dog-livery from PetSmart...filled with all sorts of special Dog-mas presents just for li'l ol' me...Travelin' Jack. So...Thirdly....we opened that box up as fast as my paws could tear through the paper....and lo and behold! There were some dog-dandy things inside from PetSmart.

First gift...an oh-so snazzy Holiday Dog Collar....red, white & black checked with a holiday bell too!

Had to put it on right away.....then we jumped in the car......... and headed for Elena Gallegos Park...one of my favorite hiking areas in Albuquerque...to test out my second gift from PetSmart...my oh-so dashing brand new Top Paws gray & blue striped sweater.....

Don't I look dog-onaire?

Right out of DGQ (Dog-Gentlemen's Quarterly Fashion Mag for those of you not in the dog-know!)

I'm really stylin' for the winter time now.....and my sweater sure is cozy too!

Keeps the snow off my chest and tummy.....

and makes for a great outfit for snowplay.

Yup...this is one dog-dude cool sweater for real....I'd dog-recommend it to everyone to put THIS baby on your pup's Dog-mas list! But...before I call this romp in the snow a day.....let me just remind you that there is a doggone GOOD reason to.......

NEVER-ever EAT the yellow snow.....if you get my DRIFT!...and I'm not talkin' snow drift here! Trust me and just take my bark advice!

But...HEY...now that I've had all this fun playin'in the snow in my snazzy new sweater...it reminds me that I need to go shoppin' for all those pups and cats on MY list! And for that last minute dash before Dog-mas, PetSmart is THE place to shop....

...for ALL those holiday MUST HAVES for the pets on my list!

So...I dog-cide to be a Secret Santa Paws shopper....I put on my disguise-a crazy Christmas Tree hat...to make sure no dog recognizes me....

But I don't get far because I fall in luv right away with the HOTTEST dog toy around this Dog-mas season...at the LUV-A-PET display, Take a look at those stuffed cuties would'ja? I WANT ONE OF THOSE! Are you listenin' Santy Paws? PULeeze?

Or maybe I want one of THESE toys! Let me grab that and throw it in the shopping cart. It's the perfect toy for my buddy FIDO....or maybe I'll just keep it for me!

And here's another bin of dog-dandy toys....I'm thinkin' Winnie or Minnie might like one of these dog toys....or maybe I'll just keep it for me!

...and then there's the CAT toy display! I gotta get something nice for my kitty brother Oscar...but HEY...I hope that no one is watchin' me looking at CAT toys! Dog forbid! I'd be the laughin stock at the dog park!

Any one lookin? Coast is clear....Let me get one quick and get away from this Kitty Display!

Ah...now this is more like it! Look at all these great stuffed squeaky toys! I'll get one for my pup buddy Chica.....or.....

maybe I'll just get it for me!

But then I got caught! One of those really HELPFUL PetSmart associates saw me checkin' out all the merchandise. He seemed to understand that this place can just be overwhelming to a dog...so Xavier...that's his name....He and I became great friends right off..and he volunteered to help me out with my PetSmart shopping. Thanks Xavier...You're a Dog-send! Couldn't do it without you!

First stop! Back to the LUV-A-PET display. He seemed to know that I was in dog-luv with these toys! And he got one down for me to test out...you know ALL GOOD STORES need a trusty tester! And I can do that job just dog-dandy!

BUT here's the REAL scoop on this great stuffed animal! CHANCE is the name of this great plush toy....It's also the BARGAIN of the 2011 pet shopping season! Only $5 for this soft, luvable doggie or kitty (your choice).....but it's also.......drum roll here.......the moneys from the sale of CHANCE go to the PetSmart Charities...to help out the 4-footed kids in the shelters! WoW! Now THAT is a really cool thing all the way around! I just gotta get one....or two....or a dog-zillion of these plush pups just so that I can help out the shelter kids!

But I think I'd better test out this babe up close...It's oh-so-SOFT....it definitely passes the Cuddle Test...it Squeaks just fine....it's adogable to look at.....but maybe most of all......

It's just very SHAKE-able!
YUP it passes the Jack Test! 4-PAWS up for LUV-A-PET toys! Available this holiday season at YOUR neighborhood PetSmart!

Give a pet a great gift for just $5 bucks....AND help the shelter kids too!
LUV-A-PET.......Now THAT is the HOT TIP of the 2011 Season! Hurry and get yours before they sell out....cause they're sure to fly off those shelves fast!

Xavier finally convinced me that we needed to look at other items besides the LUV-A-PET...so off we went on a tour of the entire store!

He showed me MORE great toys. Now I could get that for Duke....or maybe just for me!

Then Xavier...the pet-ultimate Associate reminded me that maybe we should check out the PetSmart clothing line too! So we headed over to that area of the store....

Talk about choice! For the pet with haute coutoure.....this is THE spot! Yes, Xavier... I dog-definitely like the blue one! NICE!

And while we were a-touring the store.....what do we pass by...but the Grooming Salon. Yup-Pup..that's right! PetSmart has EVERYTHING pet-imaginable!
Wow..take a look at that wouldja! Fine job on that Poodle ma'am! I'm sure dog-pressed!

And then we stopped by the Banfield Veterinary Hospital......right inside PetSmart! And they have extended hours. I KNOW because one evening I got a really bad earache...and we came here. The Vet took great care of my ears...and Voila! I'm well again quicker than you can bark a bark! Pretty doggone cool in my books!

Xavier..you've been a great help to me today....I've done my shoppin'....and I'm doggone pooped out! PLUS I have to dog-cide when I get home whether I should GIVE these great gifts away...or just keep 'em all for me......a real dog-lemma!

I've got a headache just thinkin' about all this so I'll just head home for a little dog-nap.

and I'll dream a little doggie-dream about what Santa Paws is gonna leave in my Stocking this year! I've been a REAL good little doggie, Santa Paws...I dog-promise!

I just hope he leaves me lots of toys and goodies from PetSmart..but MOST of all I hope he leaves me a plush LUV-A-PET by the name of CHANCE! Maybe even 2 one Kitty and one Puppy...now THAT would be PAWsome!

ZZZZZing off for now.........

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

PS/PupScript-PetSmart gifted me with the collar, the striped sweater and CHANCE, the Luv-A-Pet. I how-dog-ever, dug deep in my doggie bank account and bought lots of OTHER great toys at PetSmart-for my 4-footed friends.....or maybe I'll just keep em for me! Thanks PetSmart! LUV YA! My dog-personal favorite PetSmart store is located in Albuquerque on Academy Road.

Happy Howl-i-days!

2011-12-13T06:04:00.000-08:00

WHOOIE Doggies! Have I been on the fast track this past month! Why with SO many holiday happenings, awards, TV spots and more...my canine cranium is just a-whirlin'! Here are a few of the hot holiday shindigs I participated in! Take a few minutes out of YOUR busy holiday schedule and take a gander at some of my favorite events!

Starting with none other than my 2nd TV appearance with Nikki Stanzione on "New Mexico Style". Hugs and kisses to my favorite TV diva! MWAAHH Nikki!

Then from there it was off to the 2011 New Mexico Book Awards where my book "Travelin' Jack's Story...From Shelter to Star" was up for an award. Here Jill and I are a-waitin' the big announcement. Did I win? Oh...the pressure....the pupsense....and

The WINNER! YAH! I pulled it off! My book is WINNER in the Best Children's Activity Book of the Year category! Thanks Paul & Barbe! Thanks Judges! Thanks adoring public! I've got my 1st Pupscar!

And I am NOW the 1st EVER winning Dog-Author of New Mexico.....and just maybe the WORLD too!

I'm just so doggone happy....that I have to announce to EVERYONE about my win! And where else..but my all-time dog-FAV radio show with the Queen of New Mexico's airwaves, Terrie Q. Sayre on KKOB Radio. Had to brag a bit about my big win....but what does the Radio Man--Dan Goss-- do while I'm there? He makes me read the Traffic Report! Ah well...all in a dog's day of work! Guess they just know a dog-star when they see one!

Off the air...onto the next event. The Zia Arts & Crafts Christmas in New Mexico Show, where I'm doin' a paw-digraphing event. Seems my fans are comin' on strong. I'm just so doggone happy to always visit with my fans...the cute little ones........

.......as well as the grown up ones! Here's a Jack-SMACK for you Sweetums! Luv this job!

Whew, I'm dog-tired! Maybe....a little down time for Thanksgiving...off we go to the Lodge in Chama for our holiday dinner. Turkey....trimmings....pecan pie.......

AH...just absorb those savory smells wouldja? Don't know if I can wait or not. BUT HEY what're you sayin' Jill? This is JUST a photo shoot? I don't get to eat dinner at the table with you?

Doggone it....I'll just go pout while you enjoy your holiday dinner!

But now we move into December....and more holiday happenings. Here Jill is riding the Christmas Train and reading her story "Cinder Bear and the Christmas Train" on board the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama. And who should appear but Cinder Bear himself! Quite the handsome dude, isn't he?

A mad dash through the wintry wonderland from Chama back to Albuquerque....singin' "Let it snow...let it snow...let it snow......!"

On to my next paw-digraphing event at the Albuquerque Balloon Museum's Holiday Festival.....gotta get that photo in the mock-up Hot Air Balloon...how's this for a Holiday Photo? PAW-fect!

and of course....more adoring Jack-fans. Look at these two cuties....why I think they got their faces painted as holiday reindeer! What's with that? Why not a Travelin' Jack face painting?

Whew, I think I need a break from all these holiday happenings.....December road trip! Got my holiday sweater on...cause we're heading NORTH to Durango Resort......a girls' getaway for Jill's Birthday. (I think she just turned 29...at least that is what she's sayin!).

Some tasty eatin' around the dining table with her good friends Marie and Linda...and me of dog-course! Hey..do you know any other dog that would be invited to a Girls' Getaway! HA..that's right ONLY Travelin' Jack!

Yep...I LUV bein' a travelin' dog. Look at these views of the mountains from our balcony wouldja? Pretty doggone grand!

Off for a day's trip to snowy Silverton Colorado....a dog-dandy little town tucked in the Rocky Mountains.

and back at the resort....to make new friends of course. Here's my latest INTERNATIONAL buddy...Maurice...from Brazil. Hey...wanna know a secret Maurice?....listen up!

and what visit to Durango Resort would be complete without a little fireside relax time! Yup....love this spot.....and I'm a-spreadin' my paws beyond New Mexico to the lovely state of Colorado.

Back to New Mexico...and back to work..... gotta make a visit to the big man Santa Paws...at a fundraiser for one of my favorite...and BEST animal welfare organizations anywhere PAWS AND STRIPES....helping dogs, helping heroes! What a great cause and an even greater organization! Thanks Santa Paws....I've been a good little dog this year...I dog-promise!

...and off now to yet another great holiday fundraiser.....TOYS FOR TOTS. Had to do my dog-share for the two-footed kids too ya know! Think about all those little kids who get nice gifts thanks to the good Marines who organize this event. You are MY newest HERO SSgt Lucas Rodriguez!

Here's an OsoBear Gift Pak with cuddly OsoBear and 3 of Jill's OsoBear activity books too. Hope it helps a little bit!

But....now it's time to hit the road again......it's only December 13th....and there's more time for more holiday happenins' for this holiday pup! In the meantime...here's wishin' YOU a very happy and busy holiday season!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

Travelin' Jack paw-dorses "GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL"

2011-12-06T16:30:00.000-08:00

HOT OFF THE BARK-VINE!

Wonderin' what to get that family pooch this holiday season?

Well.....I--Travelin' Jack have ALL the scoop....

...paws down....

THE BEST DEALS AROUND!

WHAT? you ask! Well...let me, the snoopiest snoop dog around, share some of the hottest giftst to give this season....and for UNDER $100 too!

Here's a doggie hint.......Great Lodging, Art, History, Recreation, and Adventure await you....And so many things on the list are PET FRIENDLY too! Now ain't that just the dog-dandiest thing ever!   So follow me here......and check out MY list of pet friendly ideas for Gift Certificates underneath the Christmas Tree!

Santa Fe-Buffalo Thunder Resort, Golf, & Spa    (Choose from 4 great deals at Buffalo Thunder Resort)
$99 for one night stay including breakfast for two, room upgrade (if available)

or perhaps   $99 for Dinner for two at the Red Sage, with a bottle of wine (choice of prix-fixe meals with paired pre selected wine)

or maybe $99 for Golf for two and Lunch at the Towa Golf Club

or EVEN $85 for 50 minute facial or massage at the Wo' P'in Spa

and then there of course might just be a good day at the casino "in the cards" as well!

NOW them there are some doggone grand deals I'm a thinkin'!

....BUT hey let's not PAWse here.....there's much more awaitin' just a click away! LIKE...

Chama - The Elkhorn Lodge $99 for two nights lodging

How about a nice snow get-away at the pet friendly Elkhorn Lodge...

...or maybe even take in a pup-hike at Sargents' Wildlife Refuge while the people go snow-shoeing or hit the X-Country ski trails with a snuggly warm room at the end of the day!

OR.......

you can give a gift certificate around the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway....LIKE

maybe a trip to the charming town of Red River--the perfect gift certificate.......for pets and people too!

Red River - Golden Eagle Lodge or Elk Ridge Lodge is offering

3 great $99 packages

$99 for one night lodging and dinner for one, and a half day trail/rental pass from the Enchanted Forest,

$99 for one night lodging and dinner for two, or $99 for one night lodging for two and two half day trail/rental passes from the Enchanted Forest XC Area.

....one dog-dandy recreation area let me tell ya...from pup-personal experience!

Now if it's DOWNHILL skiing yer a-lookin' for .....here's a deal from none-other-than
Santa Fe - Ski Santa Fe $98 for two Peak Plus Cards Ski Santa Fe an adventure for the entire family, but those seeking a challenge will find their place on our mountain.

Now dog-personally, I'm not a down-hill skier...I'd just druther hike the area...but I know there are probably the 2-footed people on your list that would doggone love this offer!

......and then there are the 'cultural' types on everyone's list. Don't Dog-spair! GIVE THE GIFT has got this covered too! LIKE......
SANTA FE......
here one can browse to your heart's content...and then....with that special Gift Certificate..... head to the galleries to get some paw-some deals like....

Art Exchange Gallery & Arrowhead Studios Buy any work of art or jewelry for $100 or more and receive a second item of equal value for free.
or..
Georgia O'Keeffe Museum--Give, or get, the gift of O'Keeffe and save over 30%! You and your household can enjoy a Supporter Level Membership for only $100

BUT then there is TAOS too! Another great pet-friendly destination...with some very dog-tastic deals too! Like.....

Bryan's Gallery $99 gift certificate, Shop a wonderful selection of Taos estate jewelry.

Or....(thinkin' maybe I should get this for Jill.....with me on it of dog-course!)

Auntie Anna's Medicine Bags by Auntie Anna 10% discount on a Medicine bag
When you travel to Taos, Pick up a Medicine Bag for your pet at Puss N Pooch on the John Dunn Plaza. Medicine bags for your favorite animal and even humans too!! Handmade with Cedar, Sage, Lavender, Precious Stones and Good Loving Energy.

or...now here's a REAL dog-lemma....maybe she would like a pet portrait of her favorite pooch...that would be ME of dog-course!

The Red Queen's Farm & Studio"Precious Pet Retablos" by The Red Queen $100 per pet Precious Pet Portrait (50% discount). Sally will paint the pet portrait on a wood panel (12"x12"). Pick it up when you're in Taos for your Give the Gift of Travel special.

or another great adventure destination.....one of my favorite hiking places---Abiquiu

The Ghost Ranch where they are offering a people deal of $89 for one night lodging for two guests at Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center, Room Level: Mesa Private. Breakfast for 2.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the towering rock walls and vivid colors of Ghost Ranch, where Georgia O'Keeffe lived and painted for over fifty years.

...and another one of my favorite destinations......Angel Fire.....

& Angel Fire Resort

where the good folks there are offering a ski dream deal

Deluxe First Turns Snowboard or Ski Package: $99 for 10 am & 2 pm group lessons, rental and lower mountain lift ticket

and in dog-clusion....these are just a few TEASERS! There are many more great New Mexico gifts just a-waitin' for you to fulfill your holiday list in true style! Yup...Pup...it's just a click away at http://www.giftnm.com/. This is THE place to go for that paw-fect gift...and whether you are shoppin' for people or pets...there's a dog-zillion choices out there!

Yep..that's MY dog-personal shopping TIP this holiday season! GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL (and more) for UNDER $100! You're dog-guaranteed to be a hero this holiday season!

Now get those paws a-clickin' on the keyboard!!!!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

Travelin' Jack's Rules for Making the Most of Dog-mas!

2011-12-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

Okey dokie doggie...it's time to get ready for Dog-mas! VERY important in my dog-calendar. So to ensure YOU get the most out of this season...take it from Travelin' Jack..here's some rules for pup-etiquette during the holidays!

Always POSE for all those holiday photo ops!

DON'T mess with holiday decorations....you might get in dog-trouble!

Make new friends....take some holiday goodies to your local shelter for the kids at the in-between home. They want to have happy howl-i-days too! And you might just get to have a little meet-n-greet party too!

Keep your paws off the goodies on the table!

Make sure to share your new toys.!

ALWAYS dress in your dog-finery for the festivities.

Make sure you go shopping at your favorite pet store to ensure LOTS of toys under the Christmas tree for that good little 4-footed kid in your home!

Dress warm for those fun winter holiday getaways!

Don't forget to take in ALL the great festivities in YOUR town...and take the pet with you for a doggone sure bet for a fun holiday

Happy Dogmas from your favorite travelin' pooch!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses

This Thanksgiving I'm Thankful for.......

2011-11-23T09:35:00.000-08:00

Good Food (Buffalo Thunder Resort)

My Family (The Jack & Jill Team)

I'm thankful for my adopted kitty brother OSCAR

and my Doggie Sister, Roxie

My Two Footed Friends (Los Alamos Fire Dept.)

My 4-Footed Friends (Pepper & Cayenne---R.I.P.)

My Conference Business Partners (Toni-PetSmart, Dayna & Tango the Fire Safety Dog)

& My TV partners (Nikki & Kristin "New Mexico Style")

I'm thankful for my Travel Adventures & Dog-personal Driver

& My MANY Travel Adventures (Ghost Ranch)

and OH-Did I say.....GOOD Food? (Green Chili CheeseBurger Elkhorn Cafe Chama)

I'm doggone Thankful for Just Everything & Everyone!

And here's hopin' you have a doggone HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

PS Read my blog below for some sage bulldog Thanksgiving advice from your favorite bulldog reporter!

Stuffin' is for Turkeys....not Doggies! Travelin' Jack's Thanksgiving Pet Tips

2011-11-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

Travelin' Jack here......it's almost Turkey Day...and EVERY dog knows that is one special day! I know...I hafta be patient.....But in my family it means first....OVER THE RIO and THRU THE BOSQUE...to northern New Mexico we go! So...guess I'll have to pack my bags and my travel crate......ya know it's always impuptant for dogs to have their very own get-away rest space....especially when folks are gathered from near and far, making lots of noise and people talk and such! Sometimes a dog just has to get away from all the hubbub and find a little quiet time....ya know?

So I recommend to all my fellow dog-travelers, take your Doggie Crate with you when you hit the road...at gramma's house...or where-ever! That way, you can slip away for a little dog-nap when the mood hits!

But first thing first. We know this holiday is all about eatin'. And since I'm travelin' this holiday, I'm gettin' out MY personal Dog-China....and it's a travelin' bowl set no less! Check out these slick new Martha Stewart food containers. My own tasty nibbles and kibbles packed in my nifty DOG FOOD Canister....my handy dandy unbreakable measuring cup (gotta keep an eye on the calories even at THANKSGIVING ya know!) and my brand new 5 piece Double Feeder Bowl Set. All by Martha Stewart. That talented celeb has created a whole line of Pet Products and Accessories...to dog-die for! All by Martha Stewart and available at my very FAV pet store Petsmart!

Check out this dog bowl. First it starts with a non-skid bowl....no shiftin' and slidin' during dinnertime ya know!?! Then there are the stainless steel bowls that insert right inside the pretty white food bowl base. And then...there's even an air-tight lid to keep my special food fresh and portable! Just the handiest, dog-dandiest bowl set for DOGS ON THE GO! Like ME-Travelin' Jack!

OKAY....so the day is here....and I'm READY doggone it! What are we waitin' for anyway! Oh you want some Pet Tips for the big day, eh? OK...here goes...straight from Travelin' Jack's lips!

1) NO TURKEY BONES! Talk about dangerous for dogs! And we DON'T want any Thanksgiving Day trips to the Veterinary emergency room now do we? They can splinter, cause lots of problems and BIRD BONES are the worst!

2) NO RICH SIDE DISH LEFTOVERS. You know what I'm barkin' about. Those yummy potatoes, gravy, stuffin...dog-cetera. They just have LOTS of calories that us svelt pups don't need. Much better to stick with our regular personal favorite dog food dinner for us pups.

3) CHOCOLATE. We all know that chocolate is not good for us canines...but sometimes guests (being very polite to their hostess) will bring a nice tasty box of chocolates for the big day. And then they open it up...sample a chocolate before dinner...and then off they go on all their personal preparations. Now stop right here and think about it from our pup-spective....There they are...all those heavenly chocolates sittin' pretty as can be....opened up on the coffee table! And guess what else! EASY for us pups to reach! And before you know it.....yup....GONE! Now you see what I mean don't ya?

4) FEED THE PETS FIRST! I know, that sounds pup-spicious..but it's true. Here's another Travelin' Jack gem. IF you feed the dog first.....his own normal dog food (maybe with a special turkey canned food topping), let them enjoy their dinner,

then put them up before the BIG PEOPLE DINNER. The pups are full and ready for a nap while you are dining! Maybe a post-dinner snooze in the ol' travel crate...maybe a nap in the guest bedroom...maybe even a little play time in the enclosed backyard! Whatever works...it means there will be no dogs under the table a-beggin'.....and much as I dog-claim NEVER to do this dog-dasterdly act....it CAN happen from some less than perfect pups out there...just a-waitin for something to drop from the table! And of course there are those KIDS too...who think the easiest way to get rid of the brussel sprouts is to hand it off to the dog. Now THAT really IS not fair......to the dogs!

AND THEN THE DINNER IS OVER....yer all stuffed with the stuffin...and other goodies...and what follows then? Tip Number.....

5) TAKE A WALK IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS! Nothin' better than workin' off all those calories than a good brisk hike...and talk about Happy Pups! Well..this is just the cat's meouw.....or dog's bark...or somethin' like that. But any way you look at it...everyone is happy on a walk!

Come on Roxie...let's GO! But then after the walk.......
.....it's time to put on the GAMES ON T-shirt....get comfy on the sofa...and turn on the TUBE for that Turkey Day Football game! Even us DOGS have to have football on Thanksgivin' Day!

.......So get over it! And just get ready for the BIG GAME!

...and just get ready for the BIG GAME! Signin' off now.....the game's a-startin!

PS (pup-script). If you follow my dog-vice with all these great turkey tips, you'll have one happy pup for the holiday celebrations. AND also, PetSmart gifted me with all these great Martha Stewart products. LUV 'em all! And that's the doggone truth!

Doggie Hug, Slurpy Kisses....and HAPPY THANKSGIVING....all!

New Mexico Style Rocks! says Travelin' Jack!

2011-11-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

I made my second LIVE appearance on "New Mexico Style" on Kasa Fox TV today! YuP it's true..this PUP is livin' the good life. The Diva of Morning TV once again wowed this dog with her charm, her hugs and kisses..and compliments. Guess I am fer SURE one lucky dog!

We chatted about lots of things..including my being a finalist in the 2011 New Mexico Book Awards. But hey...why bark about it on the blog...instead just watch the video segment for yourself!
http://www.kasa.com/subindex/nm_style

. Tomorrow, November 18th is THE BIG NIGHT....when awards are announced! I'm a-hopin' big time! And IF I win....I'll be the 1st EVER Dog-Author to win a New Mexico Book Award! So keep your fingers and paws crossed out there...all you Travelin' Jack fans and friends! We'll let you know VERY soon! In the meantime...I'm just gonna go get my beauty rest for tomorrow night....and I might just dream a doggie-dream about my Dream Gal, Nikki S! MWAAAAHHH! That Jack-smack is just for you!!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses

A Canine Salute to Our Country's Dog Military Heroes!

2011-11-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Travelin' Jack here...Yankee Doodle Doggie. It's a special day today.....where we honor our military veteran heroes ALL. That means the tough MEN, the brave WOMEN and the very talented CANINES who serve selflessly to protect our country. So today, I am putting bulldog silliness aside and I seriously salute both our Veterans and our active Military personnel.

First I want to salute two of my favorite Military Veterans. My people-dad JIM LANE who served bravely in the Viet Nam war. Thanks JIM for your great service to the USA! And my TV Dad, RICHARD HOLCOMB who launched my dog-personal TV career..who also served bravely and selflessly in Viet Nam. Thanks RICHARD for your service! AND a DOGGONE BIG THANKS to ALL the US heroes...whether alive or dead, whether retired or active, whether here or in a far away land....YOU ARE HEROES to all of us Americans safe at home. Thanks for your bravery and your personal sacrifices!

I also want to BARK OUT a big Veterans Day salute to my SECRET MILITARY PERSON currently serving overseas. Recently Jill was flying on a Delta flight and the crew on board shouted out a request to the passengers to send a written Holiday Thanks to our active overseas Military service people. SO.....even while my paws were firmly planted on the ground in New Mexico....Jill wrote a note on my behalf to a special MILITARY service-person and passed it back to the Delta Flight Attendant to pass along to YOU! I hope you get this....and that you know that all of us home here in the USA wish you a safe holiday overseas....AND some tasty turkey too! I do hope to meet you in DOG-PERSON one day soon so you will no longer be my SECRET MILITARY PERSON! Bein' the travelin' dog I am...why I would even cross the highways and byways of America to meet you! What a doggone grand reunion that would be..eh?

In the meantime...on this Veterans Day in 2011....we THANK YOU all!

And as I was penning this salute, I received this e-mail from Dr. J of Top Dog ...with a very special military salute to my CANINE COUSINS serving in the Military. This article is just too doggone good not to share...so thanks to Dr. J for sharing this piece...thanks to Rebecca Frankel for writing the piece..and thanks to Pets For Patriots for the great work you are doing with our military canines and service people! You are all TOP DOG in my books!

Read on......

The Military's Canine Forces: Honoring the Dogs that Fight for our Country

Hello Travelin' Jack & Jill,

Dogs have been fighting alongside U.S. soldiers for more than 100 years, seeing combat in the Civil War and World War I. But their service was informal; only in 1942 were canines officially inducted into the U.S. Army. Today, they're a central part of U.S. efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan -- as of early 2010 the U.S. Army had 2,800 active-duty dogs deployed (the largest canine contingent in the world). And these numbers will continue to grow as these dogs become an ever-more-vital military asset. This Veterans Day, let's not only thank and remember our human veterans for their service, but also our four-legged companions. Scroll down to see images of these heroic service dogs in action and be sure to read the stories that go along with them. Once you are done reading these heroic and heartwarming stories, please turn your attention to the Pets for Patriots program listed at the bottom of this email.
I hope all of you have a happy and memorable Veterans Day. -Dr. J

Staff Sgt. Philip Mendoza and his military working dog, Rico, wearing specially made goggles, train aboard a helicopter at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.

A U.S. soldier with the 10th Special Forces Group and his dog leap off the ramp of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter during water training over the Gulf of Mexico as part of exercise Emerald Warrior on March 1.

The war dog retirement plan: For some dogs, the days of parachuting out of planes and tours in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan end sooner than others - whether it's from fatigue, a debilitating injury from battle, or a personality that's just not cut out for the rigors of war. But the military works hard to find all these dogs good adoptive homes. Irano, an 11-year-old retired military dog, is a good example. A former explosives detection dog, Irano has a debilitating disease called degenerative lumbosacral stenosis and has lost most of the function in his hind legs. But the Air Force found a good home for him with Army Sgt. Jeffrey Souder -- who has even built him a custom wheelchair. "As long as the dog is with the handler, he's loving life."

Thrill seekers: The first U.S. dog to take a "military parachute free fall" was Pal, a 46-pound German shepherd, in 1969. He made that jump with Sergeant First Class Jesse Mendez, a scout dog trainer during the Vietnam War.

But do dogs like leaping out of planes and helicopters? Apparently, they enjoy it more than you would. One handler recently told the Times of London, "Dogs don't perceive height difference.... They're more likely to be bothered by the roar of the engines, but once we're on the way down, that doesn't matter and they just enjoy the view.... [The dog] has a much cooler head than most recruits."
As former Marine and dog handler Mike Dowling put it in an interview, "As long as the dog is with the handler, he's loving life." Above U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Chris LaLonde, center, holds his military working dog, Sgt. Maj. Fosco, while jumpmaster Kirby Rodriguez, behind them, deploys his parachute during the military's first tandem airborne jump with a canine from an altitude of 12,500 feet onto Gammon Parade Field on Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., on Sept. 18, 2009.

Above Lance Cpl. Daniel Franke, a dog handler attached to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 2, enjoys a quiet moment in Towrah Ghundey, Afghanistan, on June 11, 2010.

The difference a dog makes: No matter how war dogs are involved in battle, the military's canine forces are doing more than their fair share. There are already plenty of legendary war dogs to celebrate: the three stray mutts living on a base in Afghanistan who wrestled a suicide bomber to the ground, forcing him to detonate before ever reaching the barracks where 50 soldiers lay sleeping; the fatally wounded handler who called for his dog with his last breath; the bomb-sniffing dog who, after his trainer was killed in Afghanistan, succumbed shortly after of a "broken heart."

Like other handlers, Dowling knows this from experience. His dog Rex was "a great moral boost, a symbol of home. You come back to base [to these dogs] that are so freakin' loyal -- a dog who is waiting for you, who will play with you because they love you.... There are so many benefits."

In August 2010, The Register, a British online tech publication, reported that "top-secret, super-elite U.S. Navy SEAL special forces are to deploy heavily armoured bulletproof dogs equipped with infrared nightsight cameras and an 'intruder communication system' able to penetrate concrete walls." The article also reported that the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Group had "awarded an $86,000 contract to Canadian firm K9 Storm Inc. for the supply of 'Canine Tactical Assault Vests' for wear by SEAL dogs." The K9 catalogue boasts an array of high-tech canine devices, from storm lights to long lines and leads to an assortment of vests -- assault, aerial insertion, and patrol-SWAT -- which are rated from "excellent" to "good" in protecting the animal from harm due to everything from bullets to ice picks.

In the photo above, Staff Sgt. Erick Martinez, a military dog handler uses an over-the-shoulder carry to hold his dog, Argo II, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, on March 4. The exercise helps build trust, loyalty, and teamwork.

Fierce protectors: Military dogs and their handlers often form deep bonds -- it's an essential part of the canine-handler relationship that is specifically built into their training regimen. The personal attachments are often so intense that it can take weeks of training before a dog can begin working with a new handler. Not only are these dogs fierce assault weapons, they are loyal guardians. When Private First Class Colton Rusk was shot after his unit came under Taliban sniper fire during a routine patrol in Afghanistan, Rusk's bomb-sniffing dog, Eli, crawled on top of his body, attacking anyone -- including Rusk's fellow Marines -- who tried to come near him. Rusk did not survive the assault, but Eli was granted early retirement so he could live with Rusk's family.

Above, U.S. sergeant Matthew Templet and his bomb-sniffing dog Basco search for the explosives in an abandoned house in Haji Ghaffar village during a clearance patrol in Zari district of Kandahar province on Dec. 27, 2010.

The nose knows: A canine's olfactory powers are well known -- dogs are now even being used to sniff out rare types of cancer -- and that natural ability hasn't gone unnoticed by the U.S. military. When President Barack Obama traveled to Asia last fall, an elite team of 30 bomb-sniffing dogs were part of his security entourage. (All in all, it was a pretty cushy assignment: The dogs stayed in 5-star hotels and rode in vehicles tailored to their comfort and safety.) More remarkable still are vapor-wake dogs. Scientists at Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine have genetically bred and specially trained canines to not only detect stationary bombs or bomb-making materials, but identify and alert their handler to the moving scent of explosive devices and materials left behind in the air, say, as a suicide bomber walked through a crowd -- all without ever tipping off the perpetrator. While not as expensive as some military-trained dogs, the cost of breeding and training these dogs cost is not cheap at around $20,000 each.

Above, U.S. Marines attached to 1st Battalion, 6th regiment, Charlie Company relax with their bomb-sniffing dogs, Books and Good One, in Huskers camp on the outskirts of Marjah in central Helmand on Jan. 25, 2010.
A canine surge: Over the last two years, there has been an effort to rapidly increase the number IED detection dogs in Afghanistan and Iraq. Currently, the Marine Corps has 170 bomb-sniffing dogs, but has plans to deploy as many as 600 dogs to their program before September 2012. In late 2010 the Marines have also awarded a contract to American K-9 Interdiction for "as much as $35 million" to train and kennel their dogs. In February, Marine Commandant Gen. James Amos stated that he'd like to see "a dog with every patrol."

Written by Rebecca Frankel.
On a side note, I would like to draw your attention to a fantastic not-for-profit organization that I have recently stumbled upon. They are called Pets for Patriots and they connect adult and other at-risk shelter pets with service and veteran members of the U.S. military to the benefit of pet and person. Their vision is to end animal homelessness by supporting the permanent placement of these dogs (and cats) with every available, able and willing military family in the United States. I urge you to take a look at their website by clicking on their logo below. Read their stories, view their pictures and if at all possible, help their cause. Once again, have a very happy and memorable Veterans Day! -Dr. J Top Dog Health

A Dog's Resume....Travelin' Jack....New Mexico's Dog Extra-ordinaire!

2011-11-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

Okey Dokey Doggie......We all know I wear different hats (and sometimes Doggles too!) From being New Mexico's Pet Travel Writer Extra-ordinaire where I keep my paws to the pavement checkin' out pet friendly places in New Mexico (and beyond too!)

OLD TOWN ALBUQUERQUE

...to writin' about my adventures on my own dog-personal crazy dog-blog-travelogue.....

to even running for New Mexico Dog-Governor!

Let's take a paw-step back and review my dog-resume....

While workin' doggone hard as New Mexico's Dog Travel Guru...I caught the eye...and camera of Travel Guide New Mexico   and  dog-itioned  for my part in this great New Mexico travel show. And after one test shoot....VOILA! I've got my own TV segment......

                                                           JACK'S TRACKS!


Where I posed for the camera while reviewin' and reportin' on great hotels, B&Bs and resorts......

...to exploring back country beauty....like this great hike at Ghost Ranch! We dog-splored the state from top to bottom.
And then for my dog-blog-travelogue......I continued to "HIT THE ROAD JACK"
touring and reviewing....even stylin' in my Doggles while takin' a Trolley Tour in Albuquerque....but               dog-gardless where your paws take ya....

It's dog-portant to dress in style. No matter WHAT you do or WHERE you go!

Why you just never know WHEN you might be asked to be.......

"OFFICIAL SPOKES-DOG OF BUFFALO THUNDER RESORT!

..or win an award at the New Mexico Governor's Conference on Tourism! For my dog-fabulous work in the PET TRAVEL arena

or even be the Featured GUEST on the hottest Radio show in New Mexico...with the Queen of Radio..Miss Terrie Q.....on KKOB Radio ........

Why I even landed a modeling role in a Veterinary Video...NOT that I would recommend this modeling role to any of my pet friends! Check out this video where I was the Subject of a specialized CCL surgery

http://www.myvnn.com/page.asp?id=39&media_type=11&story_id=105

But let's not tary on this chapter of my life...I'd dog-rather move onto more happy adventures!

....Like when I traveled cross country this August for my 1st Dog-Speaker role

at BlogPaws a national conference for pets and pet professionals

with

my Canine Parter TANGO the Fire Safety dog....WOO-DOGGIE..what a trip!

From there...my modeling role expanded to becoming a

PetSmart product reviewer & Dog-Model. Here I'm modeling the 2011 Martha Stewart Pet Costume line in my scary Skeleton costume! BOO! Scared ya didn't I????? BOL!!!!!

or even modeling my new LeashLocket for the world to see too!

Why each day brings a new opportunity for this bully bulldog model/canine TV & Video star/writer-blogger-speaker....and Dog Model!

You just never know WHERE I might show up!

Like in the recent Veterinary News Network video segment on 'PROTECTING YOUR PETS VISION"....check out that snazzy guy in the pic (and at the end of the video too!)

or highlighted as the FEATURED PET BLOGGER article on the BlogPaws website.....

http://www.blogpaws.com/

Yup..it's true..this pup is a hard workin' dog.....but never fear.....

I'm hot-to-trot for the next big adventure

Modeling role

TV/Movie/Video/Radio

Dog-Author....

ANYTHING else I haven't YET done

ROLE!

I'm here....Im always ready to be yer favorite goofy buddy.....Travelin' Jack!

But WHEN you need a Super Pup Star for something doggone grand...

.....Just get in touch with my Agent...And you know just who that would be

JILL...of course!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

PS (PupScript) Most of the photos in this article were taken by my fav photog...Ms Luanne Jackson...dog-photographer Fabtabulous! http://www.facebook.com/pages/LuAnne-DeMeo-Jackson-Photography/110357105702809

Happy HOWL-O-Ween....NO BONES ABOUT IT!

2011-10-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

Happy HOWL-O-Ween !

Why we started our JACK-O-Lantern tradition in 2010 when my big people-brother, Matt Lane, carved my very own JACK-O-Lantern. We raffled off chances to win the Jack-O-Lantern. The lucky winner took home their very own carved JACK-O-Lantern and we donated the moneys raised to the furry kids in the Santa Fe Animal Shelter. THAT was last year.

So THIS year...I dog-cided to repeat this Travelin' Jack grand tradition. And Matt Lane, my people-brother once again put his artistic touch on my 2nd annual JACK-O-Lantern. Pretty doggone cool, eh? Do you see me in that there punkin? I do!

And so, I donned my HOWL-o-ween costume and off we went to the Halloween Holiday HOWL at the Barn in Los Ranchos. Once again we raffled off my JACK-o-Lantern and I also paw-digraphed my book, Travelin' Jack's Story..From Shelter to Star. Oh...and PS here...if you don't have your own copy yet...you better hurry and get one soon! My book is a FINALIST for the 2011 New Mexico Book Awards! And IF I win I will be the 1st EVER dog author to win an award at the NM Book Awards! (MAYBE EVEN THE WORLD!) It only costs $5.00 and we donate the proceeds to Animal Welfare...so in addition to having your very own copy of this world-class book you'll also be helpin' the furry kids in the shelters! Pretty doggone cool eh?

But Back to HOWL-O-Ween Fun! On Sunday..we headed over to the Fall Festival at Hinkle's Family Fun Center! And talk about fun! Why there's nuttin more to say than....DEM Bones...DEM bones....why they were everywhere!

And who did I run into there...but one of my very FAV gals of all time...Miss Colleen Wyatt! Had to get my photo with this luvalee lady....she is a beauty, don't you dog-ree?!?

Yup-Pup...it's true...and she works hard for the dogs too. She is the gal in charge at the LUVIN' LABS Rescue organization. Why they've saved OVER 450 Labs by adoptin' them from shelters, fostering them..and then placing them in good forever homes and families...TOO doggone cool eh? So.....in honor of their good work, I am donatin' all my $$$s from today's event to Luvin Labs!

And then the FUN began.....Kids of all sizes and shapes came to trick-or-treat....and let me bark to you...I got LOTS of fab attention.!

Why there's nuttin' more to say than...DEM bones....DEM bones...Dem Bones...why they were Everywhere!

I was just soakin' in all the lovin...when who should appear but my twin Skeleton buddy! OH MY DAWG........Do you think we are IDENTICAL TWINS? Maybe we got separated at birth?

AND then another bony guy appeared! Where are all these scary Skeleton creatures comin' from anyway?

Do you think they got their costume at PetSmart too? That's where MY cool glow-in-the-dark Skeleton Costume came from! And I'm here to bark out loud.....LOTS of folks were OOHin' and AAAHin' at my costume. I just had to tell 'em to head to PetSmart to get their dog or cat a cool Martha Stewart Pet Halloween costume too!

Here's another handsome Skeleton guy...why we were so adored by the crowd that they were shootin' our photos from all angles..so we just hadda pose for the pics! Is this a good angle?

But maybe-just maybe...this was my very FAV ghoulish skeleton buddy! We make a dashing bony duo, don't we? But Hey....with all the goodies bein' handed out I'm gettin' hungry for some sweets.........................

Why somebody even showed me their Skeleton Candy ring....SWEET!!!!!!

HEY...give me a HAND-out...of some of that sw-ee--eet Halloween candy, won't you please? I'll give you a Jack-smack in return! OK? Deal....Let's shake on it!

YUP-PUP No Bones About It....this was one dandy HOWL-O-Ween holiday! Why I had so much doggone fun that I think I might just do it again! OH....and we were able to donate some $$$$ to both Luvin' Labs Rescue Group and LUCKY PAWS Mobil Adoption Unit....part of the City of Albuquerque's Animal Services division. YAH-doggies!

AND thanks to all my little skeleton photo buddies. NO BONES ABOUT IT! We were dressed to the bones! Thanks to ALL of you!

But gotta go now....I hear through the dog-vine that tonight is the BIG night with the Trick-or-Treaters comin' to my house! And if YOU want some dog-portant advice on Halloween Pet Safety...read my previous blog.

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

PS (pup-script) My dog-fabulous Skeleton costume was gifted to me by PetSmart! Thanks PetSmart...you're the BEST!!!

Travelin' Jack's Halloween Pet Safety Tips...AND..(sub-title) How to Really Style with a Great Halloween Pet Costume!

2011-10-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

YUP-PUP Halloween (or is it HOWL-o-ween?) is almost here! And that got this dog a-thinkin'. Why Halloween can be O-so-pawsomely FUN!

...But for pets it can sometimes be SCARY...or even DANGEROUS. So, here's my list of FAVorite rules for a safe Halloween for you and your pet!

TRAVELIN' JACK'S PuP-Tips for HOWL-o-Ween!

1. EDIBLE DANGERS Keep the kids' candy out of reach!

a. Chocolate contains theobromine...NOT good for pets!

b. Candies that contain artificial sweeteners like XYLITOL can be dangerous too.

c. Fruits & Nuts can be a danger to some pets...like raisins, grapes and macadamia nuts.

Jack's Recommendation: Go out and buy some pumpkin flavored pet treats from your favorite pet store.

2. TRICK-OR-TREAT RULES. dING-dONG DOOR BELLS....Scary for pets!

a. Halloween Trick-or-Treaters might be scary to your pets. Keep them separated from the doorway activity Halloween night.

b. DARTing NOT allowed. Pets might be startled by trick-or-treaters and dart out the door. Don't let that happen.

c. Be ID'd. Make sure your pet is always identifiable...a collar and an ID tag...and even better, a microchip. That way IF he does happen to slip away, he can be easily identified!

d. Mischevious Pranksters. Some folks let the evil side of them come out at Halloween. Black cats are especially susceptible to mean treatment. Keep your pets INSIDE Halloween evening.

e. NO alcohol. Adult Parties can sometimes get crazy. NO...it really isn't funny to get your pet drunk! AND it's very dangerous too! Alcohol can kill a pet.

Jack's Recommendation: Create a party for your pet/s in the bedroom. Give them their own treats and turn on the TV...Let them watch the new Disney Movie SPOOKY BUDDIES. Yup...it's true. Some pets DO like to watch TV--'specially shows with animals! I KNOW..I'm one o' them TV couch potatoes! AND... Jack gives this great Pet Movie a PAWS UP REVIEW!

3. CANDLES & WIRES & DANGEROUS THINGS Not all things shiny and flaming are good!

a. Candles in pumpkins can easily tip over and cause a fire...even burn the pet. Avoid all open flames!

b. Wires & Cords Keep your pets away from wires and cords. If they chew them they can get burns or even life threatening electrical shocks.

c. PENNIES No they are not from heaven for pups who like to eat anything! Pennies contain Zinc and when swallowed and disolved it can enter your pet's bloodstream causing serious health issues.

d. Polyurethane Glue used in home decorating crafts. If eaten, the glue turns int a rock like mass that might need to be removed surgically.

e.Candy Wrappers Shiny wrappers are very interesting to pets. If swallowed these can be trouble for your pets..especially to birds.

JACK'S RECOMMENDATION: Explore your house..remove your pet from any potentially dangerous area that is decorated for the Holiday! Give your pet their favorite toys and shut them a room to have their own little HOWL-o-Ween party.

4. COSTUMES To wear or NOT to Wear..THAT is the question!
a. Know your Pet. Does your pet like to dress up or not? If Fluffy is intimidated by a costume, don't force the issue. It's OK to wear his 'birthday suit' on Halloween!
b. Costumes that ROCK. If your pet is a ham...let him live it up with a great costume. Travelin' Jack is ready for Howl-O-Ween in his PetSmart costume by Martha Stewart for Pets. Pretty Spooky Cool Dude, eh?
c. The right fit. Make sure the costume is safe for your pet. It should not constrain your pet's ability to move; it should not affect breathing or prevent your pet from barking/meowing; NO MASKS; no loose, dangling or chewable parts.
d. Advance preparation. Put the costume on in advance so that the pet can get used to the outfit. Dog-obviously, I--Travelin' Jack am ready for HOWL-o-Ween in my Martha Stewart SKELETON COSTUME!

And as you can see....it has a nice snug fit to my dog-manly body! It allows me lots of flexibility..why I can sit...run up and down steps..the whole works...AND here's the dog-dandiest part of it all....IT GLOWS IN THE DARK! Soooooo..if Jill takes me trick-or-treatin' in the dark EveryBODY (live or dead) will know it's me-Travelin' Jack! YUP....no bones about it! This costume is doggone PAW-some! HOWL-o-WEEN...Here I come! I just LUV my costume...and I'm ready to party....pup-style of course!

JACK'S RECOMMENDATION:. All dressed up and ready to party! OK, I know...I'm not goin' trick-or-treatin', but that doesn't keep this party dog from a good time!. There are all sorts of pet costume parties and events around town. Just check out YOUR favorite store...rescue organization...doggie day care.....dog-cetera. You're sure to find the perfect pup (and kitty too) HOWL-o-Ween party...planned JUST for us spooky/funny/silly dressed up pets!

and...one final 'bark' of advice from this pup-reporter! IF anything bad should happen to your pet this holiday...don't take chances....take your pet to your veterinarian. Some accidents can be fatal if not taken care of by a professional...and some veterinarians are open round the clock.

Be Safe....Have Fun....and here's to a doggone Grand HOWL-o-Ween!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

PupScript: The Martha Stewart skeleton costume was gifted to me by my favorite pet store PetSmart! For the perfect costume for your favorite Halloween pet....get 'trackin' to your closest PetSmart store!

TINKER-TASTIC!!!!! Treasures, Tours and Trying out Tip-Top Raingear

2011-10-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

Dawg-o-Dawg....did I make a dog-dandy find! As you might think...most museums are not pet-friendly. Now let me dog-iterate...MOST museums. Well. this snoop-dog-doggie found a 'tinkertastic' find in a pet-friendly museum...right outside Albuquerque! It's none other than the ONE...the ONLY...the TOTALLY amazing Tinkertown Museum.
.

What started out as a hobby for folk artist Ross Ward (R.I.P.)....transitioned into a one-of-a-kind museum of tiny treasures of folk Americana. Tinkertown Museum has been open to the public since 1962. Today it provides lots of fun exploration and discovery to groups, tourists...even DOGS...and that there gets Travelin' Jacks PAWS UP review.

I was greeted by Owner Carla Ward...right from the dog-get-go. She started pointing out all sorts of fun things to explore....from ground to the ceiling...treasures tucked inside walls made of glass and other neat shiny stuff...why there's a dog-zillion things to discover and explore in this inside/outside fun museum!

Tinkertown..known for its miniature displays of hand carved Americana folk art is sure to delight kids of all ages...and even kids with 4-feet.

I had SO-O-O-O much fun dog-sploring the treasures tucked around...and because the museum goes from inside to......

....outside

to back inside again

...over boardwalks...

and even walkways with all SORT of fun stuff stuck in the cement (horshoes, license plates and more)

Why there's even places to rest along the way....and maybe a pup-photo-shot or two as well....

YUP-PUP...here's this pooch's best advice

"KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN....there's something FUN everywhere you LOOK"

Now I know you are a-thinkin' "This is doggone good advice comin' from the #1 Pet Travel Reporter...Travelin' Jack" and of course you would be right....BUT just in case you are one of those doubtin' Thomases.......Take a gander at this FACTOID

"In 2010, Tinkertown was listed as one of the TOP TEN small museums in America by Fox News and Huffington Post on Trip Advisor"

and it's all true...AND folks come from all parts of the world to visit Tinkertown Museum! Including Travelin' Jack!

YUP...I'm pretty doggone proud of myself. I sure did dog-scover one heck-of-a-find in this Pet-Friendly Museum! But...hey....don't drag your paws.....Tinkertown Museum is only open through the end of October...and then they re-open in April 2012.

So.....one last bark of advice....

"GET TRACKIN' to TINKERTOWN MUSEUM...and take your pup along for the adventure!"

Tinkertown Museum is an easy and scenic drive from Albuquerque.....located at the base of bee-u-tiful Sandia Mountains....and HEY...that gives me an idea!!

While we're here...let's explore Sandia Crest!

So we headed out the driveway from Tinkertown Museum straight up the highway....

...from a warm October day to a chilly drop in temps the higher we went! A good 20 degrees cooler.

And now with our warmer gear on, we headed up to Sandia Crest--a scenic, drive (4880 ft) from Tijeras to the highest point (10,640 ft.) on the Sandia Mountains!

...And what did we encounter enroute?

We lost our sun and found the FOG....take a look at that view would you...why we went so high we drove right into the clouds!

And guess what else! That gave me the dog-dandy opportunity to try out my brand new....

Marth Stewart Windbreaker!

No dog about it...this snazzy jacket kept me warm....dry...and wind free at the top of Sandia Crest

where we stopped to catch the views...well maybe NOT such fabtabulous views today on this misty mountain top....BUT we did find out that not only is my Martha Stewart Windbreaker comfortable and stylish....it also kept me dry!

and one of the dog-dandiest features of this high Fashion Garment? Check out this pocket.....it's NOT just a handy dandy pocket on the back.....but when you are done exploring the great outdoors in your windbreaker...it folds up into a self-pocket for easy storage! Now THAT'S what I call good thinkin' Martha! You got the whole thing covered!

Pretty keen addition to my wardrobe! And you can get one for your pooch too! They come in sizes for the teeniest pup to the giant pooch!..and different colors too for that fashion concious canine in your family! And WHERE can you get it? Why where else but MY favorite pet store...PetSmart of dog-course! EXCLUSIVELY at PetSmart too!

But now it's time to call this dog-venture a day..

.and back down the highway we go.....away from the clouds and rain...back into the beauty of fall along New Mexico's mountain byways and highways. So while the Aspens are still golden, the days are still warm, and Fall is in full glory...you might just want to take a scenic drive along the Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway...you won't be disappointed...I Dog-Guarantee!

Yup-Pup...this was one tinkertastic day! From Treasures and Tinkertown Tours to Trying out Tip-Top rain-gear...this dog has it all wrapped up to a T.

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

PS. My Martha Stewart Windbreaker was gifted to me by PetSmart. Thanks PetSmart...another doggone grand find!

Mad over MADRID and Glad about my new BLING-BLING!

2011-10-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful Fall Day in the Land of Dog-chantment (that is NEW MEXICO for you furrigners out there in my dog-blog world!) So....I barked out an order to Jill....."Let's hit the road Jill....and see what's out there to dog-splore!"

Being the wise gal that she is....she says back to me "OK....Let's Hit the Road Jack.....but let's try out this brand new LeashLocket that just arrived in the mail for you!" Of Dog-Course....how could I resist that deal! So, we took it out of the packet....read the instructions.....put it on snap-snap-snap....then we jumped in the car and off we went.

Now, you, my curious friends might just be a-sayin' about this time....."What is a LEASHLOCKET?" Now that is a doggone good question...and one worth answering. It's a new-fangled dog-vention that is-- to put it simply-- "A RETRACTABLE LEASH IN A LOCKET"....and it "LETS YOUR DOG CARRY THE LEASH FOR A CHANGE!" Now how's that for a grand idea! Hmmmmm. Looks pretty snazzy too! And we all know this pup loves to style...in style...so this new little locket might just be the BLING-BLING for li'l ol' me!

But does it work? Now THAT is the question of the day.....so let's check her out OKAY? We headed straight over to pick up my people-brother, Matt for this special dog-day-research and outing. Went straight to the city park to see what this LeashLocket is all about. Now before I tell you more...you might just want to check out this video on the LeashLocket link and see it in full action.

But here follows Travelin' Jack's say-so about the LeashLocket.

One quick push of the LOCK/UNLOCK button...and VOILA...the leash appears right like it should!


                                      You can make the leash LONG (up to 6 feet)

or SHORT....however you want it to be for comfort sake.

AND...drum roll here....even though it is light in weight....it IS sturdy. Why it handled my 73 muscly-muscle pounds just fine! FURTASTIC! (Hint....it comes in 2 sizes. The Small size securely holds dogs and withstands a pull force of up to 170 pounds, while the Large size is for dogs up to 90 pounds and can withstand a whopping 280 pounds of pull force). And talk about color! I have RED...but it also comes in blue, black and pink...for starters...and I hear through the dog-vine that the inventor plans on adding a whole array of custom colors soon....for you picky pup types out there!

If you want to romp in the park WITHOUT a leash (mind you...you MUST be a good-behaved pooch to do this!), just click-click the retractable leash...and back it goes into the locket! Now that is just Dog-Dandy in my books! This is the part about the "dog carrying the leash" Pretty doggone cool eh?

Okee-dokey doggie! We've tested out this LeashLocket-my new FAV Bling....so let's hit the road JACK!
And now this might just be Jill's FAVORITE thing about my snazzy new LeashLocket! Once in the car...no fuss...no unsnapping leashes......just retract the leash into the locket.....and snap the locket right onto the handy-dandy magnetic rivet that comes in the package and snaps around nearly any collar or harness!

And there you have it! All these totally canine-cool tricks up my leash....and I do look pup-handsome in it too....if I do say so my dog-self!

Don't you agree?

But the day's awastin'...and this travel writer dog needs to hit the road! So off we go on a day trippin' dog-scursion to Madrid New Mexico! Is it Dog-Friendly I wonder? Let's find out!

Madrid (for those of us in the know here in New Mexico, the name rhymes with MAD....so if you wanna be- like- with it....DON'T for dawg sakes say Mudrid (like the town in Spain!)...just a hint from this dog-scoverer and travel reporter)!
Madrid is an old mining town tucked in the Ortiz Mountains along the Turquoise Trail....just East of Albuquerque and just south of Santa Fe. Today..this cute little historic mining town has turned artsy...and is filled with great galleries and such! AH YES...MADRID! Worth checking out!

Main Street Madrid...or Highway 14...or the Turquoise Trail.....check out all these cute shops...aw-oh....this MAY be trouble if we let Jill get away from us here! You know how those shop-a-holics can be...and Madrid looks like it's chock full of fun and neat gifts to take home....but hey...we came here on a pet mission remember?

Is Madrid Dog-Friendly?

AHA! Take a look at that sign wouldja? It's a Dog-Crossing Sign! WoW! Now THAT's what this dog reporter likes to see! You rock Madrid! And I don't mean the turquoise kind...but you rock there too!

While we're here in Madrid we better get some history.....look at this old-tyme mining museum. It's the Old Coal Mine Museum....and right next to it is the Mine Shaft Restaurant & Tavern...that even has a Melodrama Theatre....and of dog-course....they welcome bikers too! and there's lots of grand snoopin' areas for dogs around the area too!

Hey...what's this here? Why it's an Ore Cart from the old mining days....

Hmmm...wonder if there's any silver in this ore....ore maybe some turquoise...I could use some more bling on my collar I'm a-thinkin'.

Madrid is one cool-dude town...why it is so friendly that even Hollywood came a callin' here a few years back. They filmed scenes from the movie Wild Hogs right here in Madrid at Maggie's Diner!

Yes....history, art, even Hollywood loves Madrid....and me too! I think I'm comin' back soon to check out Madrid at Christmas time...I hear through the dog-vine that there's a mighty dandy Christmas Festival here in this little village in the mountains. Yep...fer sure....I'll be bark....er BACK again!

But for now...I'm calling this a day......back in the car with my back seat view...and my new favorite LeashLocket all tucked back inside the locket....and I'm one doggone happy li'l traveler. Yup...it's a ruff life..but some pup has gotta do it!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

PS (which means Pup-Script)
The LeashLocket was gifted to me by LeashLocket Ltd. and is available in pet stores (like PetSmart)! The LeashLocket....isn't this one dog-dandy invention!?! Top-Dog in my book!

Antique Things and Fall Flings!

2011-10-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes there are just dog-dandy days....and Fall in the mountains is at the top of that list!

Chama, New Mexico, is tucked at the base of the San Juan Mountains of the Rockies and it is just glorious in the Fall. The golden leaves of the Aspen and Cottonwood trees scattered amongst the tall stately green pines make for a mighty fine picture...in my humble dog-pinion!

Yep..why it's such a popular time to view the mountain beauty that we get all sorts of great visitors to the Elkhorn Lodge....some are great people guests...and some are even mighty old and fine.......

antiques....like these fab-tabulous old-timey Model A Ford cars.

We were SO excited to have the POCO QUATROS Model A Ford Club come visit us at the Elkhorn Lodge.....to toodle around Chama in classic style....and to even ride on our old timey steam train, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad!

It was my job...as head dog-greeter..... to welcome Miss Melba A. the Club Vice President and Chama Trip Coordinator of this VERY prestigious antique car club here.. BUT of dog-course....I have to step up to get the job done just right! Pretty doggone cool..this Model A Ford eh?

We didn't have just one antique car...but MANY in this group of old-timey classic cars.


                Why there were even some awesome old-fashioned Pick-up Trucks!
                                        WoW....I really dig this one!


Another classic Model A...and another new friend....gotta make sure everyone gets a dog-personal welcome from Travelin' Jack. Yup....this pUp is UP for the schmoozin'!

And check this out....nary even a recall on these cars...almost a 100 years old and still runnin' strong. HMMM...wonder why they don't make 'em like this in these fancy-dancy modern times!

Mr. Ford...you dun good!
Okey dokey doggie...I've checked em all out...(and they passed the test for sure!)

...when all of a sudden I see some new friends in the making...................................

Mason and Carson! WoW....two cool dudes to romp around with! Hey guys.....let's race! OK you win! Yer fer sure faster than this bulldog!

But the Sunday daytime is awastin...so it's off to the mountains to check out the Fall Foliage colors.

Are they PEAK yet? Let's go!

From old Fords to new Fords...this is our brand new fancy dancy Ford Flex! She's a beauty ain't she? I'll be toodlin' all over New Mexico in her...so honk if ya see me on the road! But for now...let's park and check out the mountain colors.

Lookin' good!

I better get up here to check out the view....and the colors too...AND you just never know what you might catch a glimpse of LIKE....................................

This little deer....ain't she sweet?

Oh...don't run away you deer little thing...I just want to be your friend!

And ain't this a sight for glory days of fall...Trujillo Meadows and Lake.

All awash in golden hues...and piney greens..... and water blues!

(HEY I think I'm a Dog-poet too! Think I'll try out next year for Poet Dog-Laureate!)

Yep...now this is what I call the glory days of Fall! And NO better place than New Mexico to enjoy Fall's beauty. But now...I'm doggone tuckered out from all this mountain roamin'....it's been a grand day in this pup's life...and I'm ready to head home for a little R & R....so see ya down the road......

...but here's one tip from this travelin' pooch.....don't waste another day...YOU make tracks to enjoy the beauty of each day.....and YOU keep a sharp eye out for dog-tastic sites all around you! Oh...and YOU make sure to take Fido with you for the fun times! Nothin' better than a Sunday afternoon dog-scursion! And NO better place than New Mexico!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

BULLY FOR BALLOONING! or AM I FULL OF HOT AIR?

2011-10-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year! The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is here! Yabba Dabba Doo!!!!!

Balloons....balloons and more balloons! What a sight to see!

I sure wouldn't miss this grand extravaganza right in my own home town of Albuquerque! But gotta get up early.....here's a hint from Travelin' Jack...don't even take off your jammies....just head to the Fiesta!

What's the best spot for pooches to catch the action? Well that would be from the lawn at the Balloon Museum! AND dogs are invited FREE on the lawn! WoW...now that's what I call a bully of a bargain! I'M THERE!

Some folks like to get up high on the Museum viewing area......eye level with the colorful orbs passing you by! Pretty doggone snazzy eh?

Check out this optical dog-lusion.....is that Museum actually shaped like a balloon? YUP it sure-nuff is!
And here is a dandy activity for everyone...dogs included! The Lighter Than Air Fair...it is every day of Balloon Fiesta. And dogs are allowed at the festival and on the lawn.

Lots of great things to see and buy and take home too!

Check this out....I Travelin' Jack even hitched a ride on this great Tin Lizzy! See me in the back? WoW! Talk about a special treat.....but then that was when I was campaignin' for Dog-Governor in 2010! Made one grand entrance eh? And I was dog-lected too!

At Lighter Than Air Fair there all sorts of fun action.....like musical entertainment...why you might even catch a glimpse of Smokey Bear!

And of dog-course! There is art! HMMMM...this one seems mighty fine from my dog-spective!

Yep Albuquerque sure does know how to throw one heck of a party! This year is the festival's 40th Anniversary and it goes till October 9th...so get those paws a trackin to ABQ! You won't be sorry I dog-guarantee!..... And bring the Dogs WITH you...because there's some dog-dandy things to do around town after you watch the balloons float away in the sky.....like.......

Take a city tour on the Trolley....YEP..that's right...this great tour around town in the open air trolley is just dog-dandy for people...for kids...and even for dogs!

See....Jesse....the Tour Guide is tearing my ticket...so I'm home free for the ride! YIPPEE!

Now let's just take a gander at the tour's itinerary....hmmmm....lots of great places...LET'S GO already! What a special treat for this dog...and people too!

What else can I do in Old Town Albuquerque after the trolley ride? Well....one of the FAV things for Everyone to do while in New Mexico.....EAT. Gotta get some of that famous Green Chile! Now I don't know about you but I"M HUNGRY! So while we are in Old Town, we head to the pet-friendly patio at Church Street Cafe....one of my VERY FAVORITE places in the whole doggone world!

Take a look at this yumny Taco Salad! OKAY....better sign off for now so's I can eat this tasty New Mexican favorite! But not before I give you a couple of hints about ballooning and pups.

1) Make sure to have your pet secured around hot air balloons. The noise can startle some pups...and we don't want any run-away doggies now do we?
2) The Balloon Musuem Lawn is the only pet-friendly place at Balloon Fiesta. Dogs (except for service dogs) are not allowed on the Balloon Field...too many loud noises for us 4-footed kids...we get scared of that noisy inflation.
3) MANY hotels and B&Bs...and even restaurants are PET-FRIENDLY in Albuquerque....just do your research in advance. And book too, because the whole town books up for Balloon Fiesta!
4) There are a good number of Balloon Fiesta created RV parks right near the Fiesta grounds. Many folks who travel with their dogs drive their RV and stay right near the field with their dogs. A great way to travel in my dog-pinion!
5) Always make sure you have your pet ID'd.....just in case there is a runaway pup......true for any trip but even more so with all these noisy balloons overhead!
6) If you want to watch ABQ's famous Balloon Glow at night...here's an idea for you and your dog! There are many car-viewing spots toward Tramway Blvd where you can park your car with your dog too....and watch the glow of the balloons at night! FREE fun with Fido!
7) Albuquerque has MANY fine dog-parks, doggie boutiques, doggie day spas, doggie bakeries and more...so if you need some special treatment for Fluffy....NO PROBLEMO...ABQ is VERY pet friendly!
8) Make sure to plan ahead for your lodging and your fun times at Albuqerque's Balloon Fiesta! This is one big party with over 800,000 visitors annually.....just make sure YOU are one of them!

And here's some more fun facts about our Balloon Fiesta!

•Balloon Fiesta mass ascensions include 600 balloons--or more.
•Mass ascensions of about 700 balloons take about two hours.
•The Balloon Fiesta is the largest ballooning event on the earth.
•The Balloon Fiesta is the most photographed event on the planet.
•The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest annual international event held in the U.S.
• Balloon Fiesta's launch fields total the size of 54 football fields.
•100 special shape balloons will take part in Balloon Fiesta 2011
-The Special Shape Rodeo™ in the morning and Glowdeo™ in the evening will take place Oct. 6 and 7

So there you have it! It's all about balloons...and we ARE full of hot air when we brag about our biggest festival.....dog-literally! But it is the good kinda hot air...let me dog-sure you! And now here's YOUR dog-personal invitation....come join me at Lighter Than Air Fair this Friday morning....on the Lawn...I'll be there...WAITIN' for you! with one of my famous Jack-smacks too of dog-course! And yes....maybe I AM full of hot air...but it's all good when it's at the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

BAD TO THE BONES!!!!!

2011-09-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

OK it's true...you all said I was BAD TO THE BONES...but now there's actual proof!



I---Travelin' Jack am 4-paws ready to go trick-or-treating...but not before I get LOTS of votes on the PetSmart Monster Cute Halloween Photo contest! IF I win...yours truly will appear on a PetSmart TV commercial!

Now we all KNOW that I have star power.....but just give me that extra little boost so I can go national!


                                                          PRETTY PULEESE!?!?!

Click on the link below. My photo is located in the gallery. But if you don't want to go through the gallery (where there are LOTS of other monster cute animals) you can also access it by typing in my name Travelin' Jack (go figure!) and my species- Dog (go figure again) and under the SPOOKIEST category.

Now pretty please vote for Travelin' Jack...and VOTE DAILY now through October 24th....one vote a day!
                            http://apps.facebook.com/petsmarthalloween/gallery.do


And JUST in case you are wondering where I got this snazzy pet Halloween costume....nothing RUFF about this question....it's PetSmart of course! It comes in ALL sizes....and even coolest of all (I tested this out myself and it is pups-tively TRUE) ...IT GLOWS IN THE DARK!

                              Yup..the proof's in the PuP.....I guess I am just BAD to the BONES!

THE END!

PupScript: Thanks a dog-zilion!!!!!! Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

Travelin' Jack
(and Jill says thanks too!)

505 220-4933

THE NEXT BIG IDEA IDEA FESTIVAL in Los Alamos & the 1st Prototype of the 'JACK-CAM'

2011-09-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Next Big Invention--the dog-ficial JACK CAM at the NEXT BIG IDEA Festival!

Here's the poop.....er, I mean scoop...straight from this pooch's lips. Los Alamos New Mexico has this big scientific festival for all those Brainiacs up there at the Atomic City! And who else but Miss Kelly of Los Alamos County comes up with an idea...Travelin' Jack will sport a brand new state-of-the-art scientific dog-scovery of a special head mounted camera....THE JACK-CAM! And I would test it out at the festival! And then the Chamber sent me my own dog-personal invitation. Now you tell me...how could I turn THAT invitation down....a JACK CAM?

I'm there.....you can bet your biscuits on that one! So NEXT BIG IDEA Festival....here I come!

But the night before the BIG event...I need to get my bulldog beauty rest...so I check into the very pet-friendly Holiday Inn Express in Los Alamos! And guess what! Manny...the evening Manager..was waitin' for me! (seems my famous dog-personality precedes me!)

And not only did he personally welcome me...he even had a doggie biscuit for me at the front desk! That's all it took...as you can dog-magine! This pupparoo NEVER turns down a treat!


Thanks Manny....Nice Welcome and a Tasty Treat!  Los Alamos Holiday Inn Express......
                                         Paws UP in my pup-inion!

Now let's get to our room to put in a little RELAX TIME before the big day!

HMMM....nice room....snazzy furnishings....AND a grand view of the canyons right out my window! A good night's quiet rest for this workin' pup...and next morning off to the BIG event!

But first....WOAH....stop the car! What's that I dog-spy out the window? A DOG PARK! Right in Los Alamos!

East Park (4 acres) 300 East Road in Los Alamos
Not only does Los Alamos have a Dog Park, but there are picnic tables, a hiking trail, a play lot..even a miniature golf course! Double Dog WoW! Being the Travel Dog Writer and Reporter that I am....I'd better check this out dog-personally!

Made a new friend right off! Chelsea...and her dog Margo.....were there to dog-ficially welcome me to the Dog Park!

WoW...check this out! They even have a wading pool for pooches! And even a water hose to get cooled down with! Now that's JUST what every rompin' pup needs! And check out all the green grass, the big running area in the park.....lots of space for dogs of all sizes and shapes! NICE JOB LOS ALAMOS! Glad to see you remember the Dogs too!

                         But times a-wastin'...and I have to get to the NEXT BIG IDEA Festival already!


OKay....here we go. Let's get this ducky dog-vention JACK CAM set up. There's work to do.


Not so sure this thingy-mabob camera is gonna work...Let's get it on straight wouldja please!?! Whatever......I think we might just have been better off gettin' one of these scientific types on this job! But let's go....gotta check out the Festival!


First things first......gotta make friends with the festival goers! Check out this sweetie pie. Her name's Elyse...and I think I'm gonna get comfy with her! And NO I am NOT sitting down on the job.....well, maybe I am....but who could resist her....doggone it!


Think I'll check out Ashley Pond...hey little guy! Are you a Big Time Scientist too!? Wanna be my friend pretty puleese?

Let's see what else is there to check out at the Festival? Impromptu dancers?   But hey.....WHHAATTTT?


OH MY DAWG!!!!! I think I just dog-spied something VERY interesting!!!! Is that Albert Einstein dancing with the dames? Sure the dog-heck looks like him to me! But then....of course...this IS a Science Fair....and of course Einstein would know that this is THE place to be for all those scientist types! PRETTY dog-pressive if ya ask me!

More friends....and of course Travelin' Jack never misses a chance to help out his 4-footed friends in the shelter. So let's sell some of my books Travelin' Jack's Story...from Shelter to Star! And we'll donate the moneys to Los Alamos Animal Shelter.

Well, it's been a doggone grand day at the NEXT BIG IDEA Festival in Los Alamos NM! I've made lots of new friends, enjoyed a great festival, helped out my cousins at the local shelter (we sold enough books to donate $70 to the foster kids waitin' for a forever home)...I even dog-splored Los Alamos and dog-scovered a great dog park....and found another great pet friendly hotel.....

.....BUT......no offense anyone....next year...couldja pretty please maybe get one of these Brainiac scientist types to create a REAL working JACK CAM! Do that for me please....and I'll be BACK I dog-guarantee!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

Roadside Stop at Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo...AND impromptu Travelin' Jack photo shoot!

2011-09-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

Travel Tip #6752 (almost anyway!)

When you are on the road on a long-distance drive, it is very dog-portant to stop every couple hours. You know, us pups do need our potty breaks and a little stretch of the legs...so my recommendation.....

Look for Interesting Sites Along the Road. That way you get your potty break and walk in while doing something new and doggone interesting.

And with that said....on my recent cross-country trip to BlogPaws Pet Conference... I Travelin' Jack followed my OWN dog-advice and looked for those interestin' sites along the highway. And what do we find near Amarillo TX you ask?

None other than Cadillac Ranch.....check this place out. Lots of old Caddies parked all topsy-turvy.....and paint cans scattered all around! "Wonder why doggone it?" I said to myself. So upon closer check by this snoop dog-doggie, I discovered a one-of-a-kind-paint-landscape in perpetual progress. That is....

People are welcome to bring spray paint to the site...and create their idea of a work of art on the cadillacs!

Pretty doggone groovy eh? Some even get up high to create their own visual art-scape!

...and get this....this is NOT littering! Nope, here at Cadillac Ranch it is just fine and dog-dandy to leave the paint cans lyin' around after Caddy-picasso has done his work!

We decided to get in on the action, so.....

I got out my own paint can...and dog-cided to paw-digraph my name on the side of this ol' caddy.. Do you see it? JACK in white letters? Yup there it is!

OK...done...what's next?

Of course gotta get a photo op in at the site, right? Is this a good pose Ms. LuAnne...my dog-personal photographer?

                                            ...and another photo.

...and then all of a sudden I was surrounded! The Pupparazzi had arrived! (or somethin' like that...) There was this team of photographers from California (top-dog photographers in my dog-pinion!)...and they just started shootin away...seems they know a dog-star when they see one!

OKey Dokey Doggie....how's this Angle?

Maybe you want to get my handsome profile?

And of course a full front shot too!

Yup....make sure to get all the good angles! Good job guys! You are just dog-FAB in my books!

Luv ya Beau! Let's do this again soon, eh?

And as we are walking back to the car......one more shot...from low-down dog view......

Thanks guys! This was just the BEST potty stop ever!

Potty break....hike in the Texas country......new friends...an impup-tu photo shoot.

This is one for the Dog Journal fer sure!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses!

New Friends... Four Footed....Two Footed...even FLAT pets..AND movie Stars too!

2011-09-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

New friends to be had....from near and far...big, little, cute, funny, famous....even the Puparazzi Friends! Yup...I'm one lucky pup. Here's a quick snapshot of lots of new friends I made at BlogPaws 2011! Once you see these grand friends...you'll dog-sure wish YOU'd been at BlogPaws too!

Why we hadn't even gotten through the BIG state of TEXAS...when we had a close encounter with some crazy old caddy-cars at Cadillac Ranch...all topsy turvy......psychodelic colors and all...check it out will ya?! And they EVEN let you paint on 'em yerself......so I dog-cided to get in on the action!

If you look REAL close....can you see my name I painted JACK in white letters? Cool, eh?

And just as I'm done paw-digraphing my name.....I look up...and there's pup-arazzi all around me! Seems everyone sees my dogonaire good looks and my pup-photogenic side!

OK round 1 for new friends on the road! Thanks Beau and Team! You are just too doggone cool NOT to be my friends!

And on we go.....a quick lunch stop at LuAnne's folks home in TENNESSEE...my fav photographer......and who do I meet there? Little Biscuit....ain't he a cutie!

Enter Virginia.....Sheraton Premiere....BlogPaws 2011 Conference headquarters and seems they're awaitin' just for me! Thanks for the ride Gus! You're the BEST! Sure's a tootin' you are on my new friends list too!

And then I get introduced to my Team-mate Tango, the Firedog......

....hey, don't we make a dog-dandy pair? YUP Tango's on my friends' list AT THE TOP!!!!!

Tango's got an awful sweet Mama too...that Dayna, she is one sweetie pie....and Tango...I approve...you did a dog-dandy job when you adopted your people-person!

Then of course there is the rest of our team....in action. Miss Toni.....the PetSmart Queen.....she JUST might be the brains behind this whole gang! And that's PAW-some in my book! Luv YA Toni!

And then there were my very own special PetSmart Rah-Rah Gals! Now you tell me...who wouldn't love these two dolls.....I know I'm in LUV!

Well everything was goin' along just fine....when all of a sudden I dog-scovered something VERY strange.....FLAT PETS!!!! WHAT?????? Yup even the flat pets were there at BlogPaws. I got to meet some of 'em up close and dog-personal like. They're on my friends' list now too!

And there were pups of all sorts......

Shapes......

........and sizes........

This guy shure as heck caught my EYE!!!!!! Cool dude, eh?

...why there were even CATS at the big party....not to mention the ferrets, guinea pigs.......maybe even a bird or two.....yup....LOTS o new friends for this pup from New Mexico.

...AND Just when I thought it couldn't get any better.........there is a FAB-dogulous movie premiere! Disney no less. We were dog-privileged to see the WORLD premiere of the new movie (out this fall) called SPOOKY BUDDIES. (HINT...check out this trailer!)

Of course I had to say PAWS UP on the movie to the Director/Producer/Writer himself.....Mr. Robert Vince......bark about hob-nobbin with the BIG BOYS from Hollywood! Whoo-eee doggies...now that was one DOG-THRILL....for both Jill and me!!! Thanks, Mr. Vince for sharin' a photo with me....and JUST in case yer searchin' for a good lookin' guy like me for your next movie......my Paws up in the air WAY HIGH.....Hollywood here Jack comes!

Had to get my paws back on the ground after that...but NO the excitement was NOT over yet for this pup!

I found myself in a very dog-earnest conversation with a VERY special PEEPS......shhh...don't worry, your secret is safe with Travelin' Jack! Just don't forgit me, okay? Remember how GOOD lookin' I am too!.......and I am at your bark and call....if the need for a Spokes-Dog arises! hint-hint.

Yup...even though we had to leave town early because of rascally Hurricane Irene (NO I DID NOT CAUSE IT!!!!)......it was a Doggone Blast from Start to finish! Luckily....I got to rest and dog-cuperate while Jill did all the pup-chauffeuring!

And I now have added a dog-zillion new friends...four footed, furry even flat...to my Dog-Diary! Thanks BlogPaws 2011! It was just the cat's meouw....and dog's bark too!

Doggie Hugs and Slurpy Kisses

Travelin' Jack

On the Road with new Pet Gear! Dog-Literally!

2011-09-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Travelin'....Travelin'....Travelin' down the Highway on our way to BlogPaws 2011 where I was a Dog-Speaker! Bark about a LONG ride......we decided it would be a great road trip....where we could start adding some states to my Pets-Port passport. (Ask me for one if you so dog-sire).

We started from my home Albuquerque, New Mexico......

...then we headed into Texas

(there's a good reason why they call it BIG!)...where we spent our first night in Shamrock Texas at an independent motel that was pet friendly....of dog-course... with a pet fee of $10! Not too doggone bad!

Day 2...on into OKlahoma.....then through Arkansas...into ELVIS territory for the night, Memphis TN. We stayed at a Quality Inn there, pet fee of $15...nice digs.

Day 3 Scenery's changing here in Tennessee.....from the flat open plains on to rolling green hills.....we continued into Virginia....overnighted in Roanoke VA at a Ramada Inn...$10 pet fee. We're on a roll....no dog-unfriendly hotels yet.

Day 4 Virginia...to our final destination, Tyson Corners VA...right outside Washington DC at the Sheraton Premiere...host hotel for BlogPaws 2011 Conference. YIPPEE....we finally arrived. Checked into the hotel.....high rise hotel with ground floor pet rooms...YAH...easy outside access for my Nature's Calling outings! A doggie biscuit treat upon arrival...and get this... NO PET FEE! You Rock Sheraton!

Then on into our room......

Glad Jill didn't forget my brand new PET GEAR Travel Lite Soft Crate......easy to pack...light weight and easy to carry...at least for Jill.....not me! I'm just checkin' out the perfect spot for my home-away-from-home travelin' dog crate.

Course we need to assemble it first....that's easy... The Travel-Lite Soft Crate sets up and breaks down in seconds making it the ideal home away from home for me...and your pets too!

It's especially good for road trips and at the hotel...but I could also use it in our SUV or even outside on camping adventures! This is dog-doubtedly the most handy-dandy dog-crate I-Travelin' Jack have used! Check this link out for more special features of the Travel Lite Soft Crate...and check out this pic of me in my new fav pet travel crate.......

Easy in-n-out....and quite snazzy lookin' too, eh?

This 36" crate fits me just dog-dandy! Makes me look like a suave dog-anair traveler don't you agree?

And a nice mesh door...so even when I am enclosed, I can see out just dandy.....all's fine with this deal in my dog book! Oh...and different sizes and colors for all those different sized travelin' dogs! Tan for me..to match my blondeness!

Now that I have my room set up with my comfy cozy Pet Gear Travel Lite Crate....I'm ready to hit the conference! Wonder what they have for me here at BlogPaws?

WoWee-GaZowie! Look at this SWAG BAG!.....all that for li'l ol me? Why I'm just dog-honored! Yup....this whole trip here......all 1879.2 miles each way has been just dog-dandy! From pet friendly hotels...sleepin' in my new Travel Lite pet crate...to checkin' out the bee-u-tiful Americana scenery along the way...... yup.... I DO like being a travelin' dog!

Doggie Hugs & Slurpy Kisses!

Travelin' Jack

Oh and PS.....My Pet Gear Travel Lite Soft Crate was gifted to me by my very favorite pet store PetSmart but they are available to you too as an online product!

Travelin' Jack, New Mexico's Canine Travel Reporter Adopts Oscar the Cat!

2011-09-06T19:05:00.000-07:00

This post is my entry into the "BlogPaws Blog Carnival Contest sponsored by BISSELL Homecare Inc"

Travelin' Jack here with my favorite quote and adoption story.....

"PUT YOUR BONES WHERE YOUR BARK IS!"

That's dog-chat translated into people talk as "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is!" And WHAT you ask does that mean? Well it's a long dog's tail....er tale....of takin' action about what yer sayin!

Now you know I am always promotin' Adoption from Shelters, right? I was sittin' around the house the other day, contemplatin' life...and Jill and I decided to donate some things to the City Shelter. So off we go, to visit the Albuquerque Eastside City Shelter...and visit with the Grand Dame of the place, Director, Ms. Barbara Bruin.

And just as we are entering her office....what do I see but this littlle guy sitting there nice and pretty.

So, I decide to take a closer look.

Now you may think "dogs don't like cats", but HEY Travelin' Jack is here to dispel that myth...NOT true at all! Once dogs and cats get acquainted and live in the same family, why, we can be BEST of Friends!

So Miss Barbara, the kitty and I get up close and personal...and I start askin' lots of questions...you know, bein' the snoopy dog reporter that I am. Come to find out..this grand little guy....might have been headed for DEATH ROW if the good director had not intervened.

See, she saw somethin' doggone...er....cat-tastic about this little guy so she jumped in and fostered him right in her very own TOP-DOG office till the right family came along.

Why do some good little kitties and doggies end up on Death Row, you ask? Well, for one thing, there are just too many animals needing homes....especially Kitties... and also this poor little guy was diagnosed by the Pet Doc as having Feline Leukemia. And that's not a good thing!

HMMM I think...so I start to talk to Miss Barbara about the WHYS and the HOWS and all those doggone important things....and then whadya know.......

...but SHE starts interviewing ME.....to see if I would make a good dog-brother to this little kitty. Well, as I sat there contemplatin' the whole thing, she filled me in on the fact that doggies can't get feline leukemia...and that's a good thing in MY Dog Diary. So I start to thinkin'.... "if I don't adopt this little guy he might not live to see another sunshiney day"...and that was all it took.

Yep, I said...."Where do I paw-digraph on the dotted line?"
And before you could blink a dog-blink...we were a happy little family!

And Miss Barbara is handing him off to us to take home! YAH..another Kitty finds a home! And I Travelin' Jack now have a new kitty brother....DOUBLE DOG YAH!!!!

Once home he needed to check out things....

I just watched quietly from my favorite settee....

when what does he decide to do....

....but settle down with me nice and cozy like for a little 'cat-nap' (GET IT?...my kitty cat joke!?!)

So after a nice little snooze together, we got on with important things....like namin' my new BFF.....hey....how does Oscar sound? I DO LIKE the ring of that name...so OSCAR he is and we are SOoooo doggone happy to have him in our family!

Yep, it's true..Travelin' Jack is not all bark... I do indeedy put my bones where my bark is!

Now maybe...just maybe...YOU should be thinkin' about adoptin' from the shelter too! And you too can save a pet's life!

Doggie hugs, slurpy kisses...and sweet kitty dreams!

Travelin' Jack!

HOT OFF THE PAW-PRESS-A REQUEST FROM YOUR DOG-GOVERNOR Travelin' Jack!

2011-09-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

As you all know, I just returned from my starring Dog-Speaker role at BlogPaws 2011 conference in Washington DC......and among ALL the great things I saw and learned there......I dog-scovered that we have a STAR in the making right here in New Mexico! Patsey from Alamogordo...and her best buddy Sassy.....have been named FINALISTS in the national "Dream Dog Park Contest" sponsored by Beneful Pet Food Company.

Now here's the scoop....we ALL need to VOTE for Patsey and Alamogordo! WE CAN DO THIS NEW MEXICO!  We CAN help our neighbors in Alamogordo get their DREAM DOG PARK!

Here's how to do it..................

The Beneful® Dream Dog Park Contest recently asked dog owners the question: If you had $500,000 to create a dream dog park for you and your best buddy, what would you do? Hundreds of dog owners from across the country entered the contest, including Patsey, who has been named one of 15 finalists in the contest that will award a $500,000 makeover of a dog park in the Grand Prize Winner’s area. Patsey is now looking for the Alamogordo dog-loving community to visit BenefulDreamDogPark.com and show their support by casting a vote for her entry.

After earning a finalist position and advancing to Round Two in the contest, Patsey was asked to bring her dream ideas to life by creating, narrating and submitting a video that showed her daily adventure together with her dog in the dog park and explain how to make it even better if she had the opportunity to inspire a dream dog park. From now until September 8, 2011, the videos will be posted on BenefulDreamDogPark.com for viewing and voting, and those casting a vote will also receive a $3 coupon for Beneful® brand Dog Food Healthy Fiesta (limit one per person while supplies last). In addition to the voting, which represents 10 percent of the total score, the 15 finalists will be judged by the Beneful Dream Team, led by dog lover, design expert and television host Jason Cameron and pet expert and bestselling author Arden Moore. Their judging will count for 90 percent of the final score.

The Grand Prize Winner will receive $10,000 cash and a one year supply of Beneful® brand dog food. And, his or her idea will serve as inspiration for a $500,000 makeover of a dog park in his/her area. Fourteen runners up will each receive a one year supply of Beneful® brand dog food. Cameron will manage the transformation of the park, with Moore providing expertise from a dog’s point of view.

A celebration event will take place in the Grand Prize Winner’s hometown in September to reveal plans for the next Beneful Dream Dog Park. The unveiling of the newly renovated park will take place in spring 2012. For more information or to view, vote and/or pass-along contest submissions, go to benefuldreamdogpark.com

OKEY DOKEY DOGGIES.......LET'S GO GET EM! I've voted......and I will again...but...New Mexico... we need YOUR vote too!