tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87618806275166818872024-02-01T22:31:03.700-08:00happiness in a wholesome dog treatJOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-12036604039077845202014-04-12T16:34:00.001-07:002014-04-12T16:47:19.639-07:00Our first Therapy Dog interview with Jack McCoy<h2 style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of our purposes at </span><span style="background-color: color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">JOY biscuits</span><span style="background-color: color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is to increase awareness of therapy and service dog programs. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">In this interview, Alison Etcheverry, a third grade teacher at <a href="https://dfes-sfusd-ca.schoolloop.com/" target="_blank">Dianne Feinstein Elementary in San Francisco</a>, talks about her therapy dog, Jack McCoy.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.15; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jack is an active therapy dog for the <a href="http://www.sfspca.org/programs-services/animal-assisted-therapy" target="_blank">San Francisco SPCA's Animal Assisted Therapy Program</a>. He's officially part of their "<a href="http://www.sfspca.org/programs-services/animal-assisted-therapy/puppy-dog-tales-reading-program" target="_blank">Puppy Dog Tales</a>" program in select SF public schools. This is the equivalent to being an </span><span style="font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.15; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eagle Scout</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.15; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> in the Boy Scouts! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. When did you get Jack? What’s the story behind his name?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I got Jack when he was 4 and a half months old. He's from West Oakland, CA.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His full name is Jack McCoy. He was named after the Sam Waterston character from Law & Order. He stands for justice. Plus, just like on the show, Jack is a real ladies man, has an extensive argyle sweater collection, and has the charming "salt and pepper" thing going on!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-fa693ea6-5837-b7e2-6b74-ca0fe2d6a43b" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. How did you know he would be a great therapy dog?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtjyShIuGcYs6Y4wpOxC60obolkTC5320MFWQyN5ggbq3YV3HOb3KZhalluWa7vHI8ue6I_l1qc0DYAw_-rHcKBpAcHXlZrgs-Cf2FKxiAd-idLtrUFLOwwqtMXeSaa6nPrQXVR0U/s1600/photo+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtjyShIuGcYs6Y4wpOxC60obolkTC5320MFWQyN5ggbq3YV3HOb3KZhalluWa7vHI8ue6I_l1qc0DYAw_-rHcKBpAcHXlZrgs-Cf2FKxiAd-idLtrUFLOwwqtMXeSaa6nPrQXVR0U/s1600/photo+(10).JPG" height="200" width="122" /></a><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I knew right away! I took him home the first day of summer vacation, so I spent the whole summer socializing him. He was so good with kids in the neighborhood, in the park, wherever we went. I knew right away I wanted to be able to bring him to my classroom.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. What organization did you go through? What was that process like?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We went through the SF SPCA Animal Assisted Therapy Program (AAT). We had already done all the puppy training, then he had to pass a "temperament" exam. Next, we did a 6-week course to qualify to be in the AAT program. Finally, in order to qualify to come to schools, he had to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen exam and do another training to become part of the "Puppy Dog Tales" program. (He has all the official documents to prove it!)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. Can you describe what type of therapy work you did together? What type of facilities/organizations did you go to?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jack has been a therapy dog for over 6 years now. We started by going to rest homes/memory centers. We visited several psychiatric units-UCSF, SF General and most often, the VA. We also visited ICU's, especially for pediatrics. Now, our only "official" visit is to Dianne Feinstein Elementary School every Friday.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. What is your most vivid or favorite memory of how Jack interacts with his “clients”?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPQQH0kxLWYHlvVW9EFva5EK9dG_QR_lVUPv-4F_6YhKZK8um0VY1F8aVCwOJshqDH8InBQ19E8WoybJ1rzYzlGK_gsyQoMRyailNvDOOjiQxVfkW76KLFciyTe5snBDasLRLaMXO/s1600/photo+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPQQH0kxLWYHlvVW9EFva5EK9dG_QR_lVUPv-4F_6YhKZK8um0VY1F8aVCwOJshqDH8InBQ19E8WoybJ1rzYzlGK_gsyQoMRyailNvDOOjiQxVfkW76KLFciyTe5snBDasLRLaMXO/s1600/photo+(9).JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I've had a number of really amazing interactions, but a few really stand out. The first was several years ago, at the Langley Porter Psychiatric unit. One young man who didn't really engage with the group, lit up when Jack arrived. When our visit was up, the guy got tears in his eyes and said, "I love Jack, please don't go." I found out later from the nurse that that was the first time he'd come out of his shell. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another more recent incident was Jack's interactions with a kiddo in the Special Day class. A few months ago, I took Jack outside to go potty. I noticed a little boy, new to our school, out front. I could tell that he was agitated and looked like he might run away. I started talking to him, and eventually, I convinced him to "show Jack his desk," and got him to come back inside, holding Jack's leash. We've done that a few times now. But the biggest changes are the kids at the beginning of the year who are "terrified" of Jack, and by the end, can't stay away from him. He is a true healer!!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. If you could give advice to someone who is thinking about making their dog a therapy dog, what would you tell them?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think it is one of the most wonderful and rewarding things in my life! I would say, although it is a lot of work, it's totally worth it! It takes a lot of patience, but if you pay attention to your dog, they will show you the way. I read something once that really encapsulated what it's all about: "Dogs are the bridge between children and adults." Children really, really, really identify with him. Jack helps me connect with my students in a deeper and more profound way, beyond words. He's like a magician! Kids will do stuff for/because of him that just wouldn't happen otherwise. One last story: I left Jack with another teacher a year or two ago. She had a kid who would only sit still for minutes at a time. She told me that every time the boy got up she'd say "Jack needs you to sit down & do your work," and he did it!! She said he did more work that day than any other!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jack is an Italian Greyhound and is 8 years old. His favorite activity is running through the grass and chasing his red ball!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for reading! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div>
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JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-86580570246362938822013-07-01T16:03:00.002-07:002014-04-12T16:46:54.981-07:00transition...<h4>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">well well well. you may be wondering why i haven't posted in so long?!</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">a few months after champ passed away, we bought a cycling tour company, <a href="http://www.outfittertours.com/" target="_blank">Outfitter Bicycle Tours</a>, then we adopted eddy, and later that year we had a baby!! 2011 was definitely a year of new beginnings...2012 was definitely a year of transition. now that we're halfway through 2013, i am finding myself in yet another transitional space. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">it has been over 6 months since i have baked JOY biscuits. but i want you to know that i WILL be baking again soon! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">several months ago i received a weekly smile email from one of my favorite doggie publications <b>the BARK</b>. here is what i found when i opened the email:</span><br />
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<a href="http://thebark.us1.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=306bffbddb6f6dfc426d930cd&id=b5e3d3bcb1&e=c839602ed5" style="background-color: color: #3399cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.111112594604492px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Emmy / Smiling Dog" border="0" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/306bffbddb6f6dfc426d930cd/images/Emmy_550_4813.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: inline; line-height: 14.44444465637207px; margin-bottom: 10px; min-height: 350px; outline: none;" title="" /></a></div>
<strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">What’s your dog’s name and age?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Emmy, 12 years old.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">What was your dog doing when you took this photo?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Torturing me with her sweetness while she was waiting patiently<span style="background-color: #ffd966;"> for </span></span><span style="background-color: #ffd966;"><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> door to be opened. </span><br /><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">Where/how did you find your dog?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> She was relinquished by her first family after being hit by a car. We were </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> emergency foster family and </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> rest is history... </span><br /><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> What makes your dog smile?</strong><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Seeing us after we've been gone, even if it's to get </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the </span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">mail or use </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> bathroom. Her tail goes around in a huge circle. </span><br /><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Do you and your dog have similar personalities or temperaments?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> We can get into a pretty dangerous groove of lying around together; I never napped until I had my first greyhound! </span></span></span><br />
<b style="background-color: #ffd966;"><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">Do you do any volunteer work with your dog or on behalf of other companion animals?</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> <i>Emmy has worked at Alzheimer's, mental health and convalescent facilities. She will hop right up on </i></span><i><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> bed if invited. </span></i></b><br />
<span style="background-color: #ffd966; font-size: xx-small;"><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">Do you and your dog participate in any canine sports?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Emmy was quite a successful racer. Now that she's retired, she prefers to run on </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">the</span><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> beach without worrying about winning. </span><br style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;" /><strong style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;">What do you cherish most about your dog?</strong><span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"> Feeling her breath on me while she's sleeping, she's just such pure, innocent goodness...</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: color: #505050; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.111112594604492px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">of course, the first thing that caught my eye was that emmy is a greyhound. when i continued reading i saw that she is ALSO a THERAPY DOG! what a sweetie. i love how <b>the BARK</b> features dogs of all breeds and ages. if you ever want to submit a photo of your smiling furry friend to them, you can! <a href="http://galleries.thebark.com/703378660?fb_ref=g703378660" target="_blank">click here for more info. </a> thank you for reading!</span></span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-67607310239507323232011-05-29T19:57:00.000-07:002011-05-29T22:14:13.738-07:00new beginnings indeed!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPb0BD7DCEEJ6_AZORSPk8ngZSv6YX15QsJ3AaddVp4GztDbuxnvtP8RqTTJu2SzSqTlkSkD9UIG0Hxi322PaWe74FLFNDOAyBtDFvG1VRaEFxAbkJhEGblgGkCJ00bJ_d8USbKfG/s1600/IMG_0974.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 235px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPb0BD7DCEEJ6_AZORSPk8ngZSv6YX15QsJ3AaddVp4GztDbuxnvtP8RqTTJu2SzSqTlkSkD9UIG0Hxi322PaWe74FLFNDOAyBtDFvG1VRaEFxAbkJhEGblgGkCJ00bJ_d8USbKfG/s200/IMG_0974.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612338817459615650" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">well, we have added a new member to our pack! his name is eddy and he com</span><span style="font-size:130%;">es to us from <a href="http://www.greyhoundfriendsforlife.org/home.htm">greyhound friends for life</a>. he is still a pup and unlike champ, has never raced. he LOVES to play with his friends tini and kyo and wants to play with just about every furry friend he meets! </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxels0EocWbLRL_WWH3d5-yG0vK53GuYr5Qpv1Y97gqL1dHVLyuppSjeP8j3d2V7Xs-K9Muptrjq1eZ0fyh5_UoEj1PwCxXuYlnwA9R5Wc-sjadcwrd_Sal0OxBxNz4tNqJds1wXqJ/s1600/IMG_0981.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxels0EocWbLRL_WWH3d5-yG0vK53GuYr5Qpv1Y97gqL1dHVLyuppSjeP8j3d2V7Xs-K9Muptrjq1eZ0fyh5_UoEj1PwCxXuYlnwA9R5Wc-sjadcwrd_Sal0OxBxNz4tNqJds1wXqJ/s200/IMG_0981.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612339389730220690" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">eddy & tini romping at the dog park in north lake tahoe during a road trip. </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">tini really helped eddy adjust to his new home life away from the kennel.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7XLcAhNacHT3-7HFhD8jUkZF5K_5lLTFDO4eb1xFNH04q2XCzDVoHKkqZJLt3qr77AFNqwhWq5sG4kpoFMIN0y_q8utcXTAw_-ck5SqzaZ-tTfABHIDzWZf0kIoZTmePreboA0RF/s1600/IMG_1520.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7XLcAhNacHT3-7HFhD8jUkZF5K_5lLTFDO4eb1xFNH04q2XCzDVoHKkqZJLt3qr77AFNqwhWq5sG4kpoFMIN0y_q8utcXTAw_-ck5SqzaZ-tTfABHIDzWZf0kIoZTmePreboA0RF/s200/IMG_1520.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612339853453230530" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">eddy & kyo having a play session at the ballfield near our place. </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">these boys like to play rough and are way TOO CUTE!! </span><br /><br /><br />around last thanksgiving (about a month after champ passed away), i started looking online for dogs on petfinder.com. we weren't feeling anywhere close to being ready for a new dog, but we knew that our family wasn't complete without one. when i would look at the <a href="http://www.greyhoundfriendsforlife.org/home.htm">GFFL</a> website way back in november, eddy (formerly known as "purkey"), was available. after months of looking at various resources and discussing timing, logistics, and all that other stuff, purkey was still available! we decided to go meet then-purkey and 3 weeks later we brought eddy home! needless to say, we are quite smitten with him, oh and he loves <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits!JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-31000099216679265462011-04-02T14:51:00.000-07:002011-04-11T21:58:31.881-07:00new beginnings with the same purposehappy spring and new beginnings to you! i love this season and the new growth it brings. the air hung with sweet floral scents and longer days full of sunlight make me smile deep from within. yes,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> JOY</span> biscuits is still creating happiness in a wholesome dog treat with organic and locally-sourced ingredients for your furry friends!<br /><br />so how have we been since our last post?! well, baking <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits without champ patiently waiting to perform his QC duties has been a challenge and a learning experience. the first batch i baked without him hit harder than anticipated. after that batch, baking has been getting more enjoyable, especially in the company of furry friends (<span style="font-style: italic;">thank you kyo and stella!</span>). grieving is not a linear process and riding that wave can be difficult. however, i know that with every end of something comes the opportunity for new beginnings!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxtBRal8FZszZKBBzhn81SmyxJdw2SEf19vXh8tzBEyhjvoJKyNu51c2dNuBoVhFMHWYgqYZM8Yi-a7oCtkG_0Jo9lAuHEnv5DXfyRdjyKRay38WsN9JHMyav3QeQE1pLeQ-x7phy/s1600/koru.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 64px; height: 65px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxtBRal8FZszZKBBzhn81SmyxJdw2SEf19vXh8tzBEyhjvoJKyNu51c2dNuBoVhFMHWYgqYZM8Yi-a7oCtkG_0Jo9lAuHEnv5DXfyRdjyKRay38WsN9JHMyav3QeQE1pLeQ-x7phy/s200/koru.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591126245198107186" border="0" /></a></div>riding the wave, i have had time to re-evaluate the purpose and intention behind <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits. providing an artisanal dog treat with flavors that are nutritionally beneficial continues to be one of our main purposes. additionally, <span>our intention and mission still remain the same:</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> to provide a sustainable dog treat that targets optimum dog health and to increase awareness of service and therapy dog programs. </span><br /><br />what kind of new beginnings are you and your furry friend experiencing this spring? is your daily, weekly, monthly purpose and intention the same as it was before or is it different?JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-53446570565640533382010-11-07T20:54:00.000-08:002010-11-07T21:54:54.493-08:00pack of 3, now a pack of 2<span style="font-size:130%;">my heart aches as i try to put words together for this post. in fact, i wasn't even going to post this. but yesterday it became obvious to me, i knew i just had to...as part of the healing process and as a tribute to CHAMP, the very inspiration behind </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWrVbyH-5RVZwL18plozZCsX0xoKzhZZkwoNjnFFRJ9dqSd_PR1msstY3dHK8CrcaEIlb60HBTZqnA3JxdjrAxj6-HiyUr-VQZl8xsbw_538CDWve0qn0QSxoDgjg29QpBvV1kY6C/s1600/IMG_1522.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWrVbyH-5RVZwL18plozZCsX0xoKzhZZkwoNjnFFRJ9dqSd_PR1msstY3dHK8CrcaEIlb60HBTZqnA3JxdjrAxj6-HiyUr-VQZl8xsbw_538CDWve0qn0QSxoDgjg29QpBvV1kY6C/s200/IMG_1522.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537046883058309346" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">1 week ago today........champy passed away. <br /><br />i'm slowly picking up the pieces of what life was like with him and trying to put them back together in a way so that i can move forward. the overwhelming feeling of sadness and loss is gradually giving way to fond memories of champ and what truly made him such a sweet good dog. (he was SUCH a good boy.)<br /><br />my husband and i put together an email we sent out to our family and friends who knew champ, which i will copy below. the transition back to a pack of 2 is very difficult as it's even hard to imagine what we were like before champ came into our lives. as the days pass without going through the daily routines with champ, petting his soft belly, and the spontaneous outings and walks, one thing is clear: <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits is not only what champ inspired for us, but it has now become champ's legacy. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;" >Dear Friends and Family,</span></span><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Almost 2 years ago a retired racer came into our lives and found his way into our hearts. Champ was definitely a looker, and a conversation starter ("He's a greyhound not a whippet. Yes, he used to race. Champ's markings? It's called blonde brindle."). His gentle temperament and soft fur left a strong impression on many. </span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">As many of you know, our boy Champ started acting not like himself in late September. The three of us started an intense journey that ended this past Sunday evening. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, he succumbed to lymphoma, which buried itself in his spinal cord and bone marrow. His passing, here at home, was incredibly peaceful and serene. The look in his eyes that morning let us know it was time to let him go...this was undoubtedly a very difficult decision to make.</span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">After a warm sunny fall day of enjoying time together, feeding him his favorite foods (including JOY biscuits and even some rabbit) and relaxing outside, we sent him on his way. Joy and I can both say that he was probably the most relaxed and peaceful one in the room. He just knew...he was a true champ, in so many ways.</span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Joy and I were lucky to have had 1 year 9 months and 7 days with him. He came into our world as a hardened racer with a stoic persona, a stellar on-track record, and always looking for a job to do. He left us as a loving family dog that wanted to do nothing more than to please us. He was highly intelligent, but rather than just knowing how to out-maneuver other dogs on the track, he learned and accumulated a library of tricks that he could and would do at any time. All he wanted in return was a pet or a treat.</span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">We'll never forget his soft fur and ears, his propeller tail and how it wagged more and more with time, how he learned to play with his toys and do 180 and 360 degree jump turns in our main room, and how he learned to sniff smaller dogs (as opposed to putting them in his mouth). He literally made our jaws drop when he "opened up" and ran super super fast (faster than what we thought was his fastest) kicking up dirt and dust on us at the horse corral up in Marin. Champ knew what to expect from the person behind the counter at any pet shop, how to pay close attention to the kitchen floor when we were cooking, and how to "counter sniff" instead of counter surfing. Something I know we miss dearly is how he loved to give and receive affection. </span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">During the journey of the past month and a half we bonded with one another and many of our friends more than we could have ever expected. Champ was a very compliant and patient patient, trusting us every step of the way. We can't thank enough the vets that worked with us. Also, thank you to all who visited with Champ, raising his spirits and giving him a distraction from his pain. Your support has lifted us up in ways that are invaluable to us. Additionally, thanks to those of you who welcomed him into your homes and your hearts. </span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The lessons Champ taught us, such as living in the moment and loving unconditionally, remind us of what is really important in life. We are grateful that he let us into his life as his proud parents, even if only for a short period. We miss our sweet handsome boy. Champ will always be a part of us.</span></div> <div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span> </div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Carpe Diem,</span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Jamie & Joy<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9asc42oNBsqvFLbmpxxEcE7Ma8JZqJsDRm95kBEyRnku2ajutPv6XPde5TJJf50pL68U8l1wGEpRbAPWyL09tZXZzw56YWBMg6qApifA1ur4TfutR-N8NlES_Pth5uv5m2p7bhefI/s1600/P1000792_2.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9asc42oNBsqvFLbmpxxEcE7Ma8JZqJsDRm95kBEyRnku2ajutPv6XPde5TJJf50pL68U8l1wGEpRbAPWyL09tZXZzw56YWBMg6qApifA1ur4TfutR-N8NlES_Pth5uv5m2p7bhefI/s200/P1000792_2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537050948824847458" border="0" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-89710259511090786082010-08-26T20:31:00.000-07:002010-08-26T21:30:26.436-07:00JOY biscuits loves therapy dogs and service dogs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRY_DDls7ZjFRi70KwT8EWt61ojNCrVm1mhudadS_iYGU6jZEgaGW7iDXfgdCf0D3pXdNNXl_F7BSNX3uuuguZICmiGatwrrRoCdaegmZK63AGj0ihzfpV-7cmH1ifO21Q1B83I0VG/s1600/IMG_2199.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRY_DDls7ZjFRi70KwT8EWt61ojNCrVm1mhudadS_iYGU6jZEgaGW7iDXfgdCf0D3pXdNNXl_F7BSNX3uuuguZICmiGatwrrRoCdaegmZK63AGj0ihzfpV-7cmH1ifO21Q1B83I0VG/s200/IMG_2199.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509932150472884018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-PaQ4JBDPHfj-o_FJDsqijh1sIDjipEIl6zHfhvoEyzIcv0-Ma-3scFGVc43lI8p7kmWg8h44yHM-FfC1_F-9c5oNEBTNcZ_nqv-jlgPHtAf-L7uoA7Oek7WL2kEbHFqVAibGFNM/s1600/IMG_0239.JPG"></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><div class="im">one of our missions at <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits is to increase awareness of therapy and service dog programs. we all know that dogs are wonderful companions and that one's quality of life is greatly increased when one has a furry friend in their life, however the distinction between a therapy dog and a service dog is important.<br /><br />generally speaking, both types of dogs have similar outcomes: to increase quality of life, increase independence, and ultimately enable a person to participate more in their daily activities.<br /><br />so what exactly is the difference between a service dog and a therapy dog??<br /><br /></div>service dogs are specifically trained to assist in meeting the needs of a person with a disability who may have limitations related to mobility and/or mental health. service dogs are legally defined by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Americans_with_Disabilities_Act_of_1990">americans with disabilities act of 1990</a> and are protected by federal laws that enable them to accompany their owners into public places where dogs-as-pets are not allowed. i've seen service dogs do amazing things like open doors, dial 911, pick up small pills off the ground with their teeth, and turn lights on and off. these dogs have a very important job, no doubt.<br /><br />service dogs are also known as guide dogs, skilled companions, and hearing dogs. with organizations like <a href="http://www.cci.org/site/c.cdKGIRNqEmG/b.3978475/k.BED8/Home.htm">CCI (canine companions for independence)</a>, and other service dog programs, people with disabilities have more access to participating in their communities, which is something that <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits cares very deeply about.<br /><br />one thing to remember though (as it was difficult for me to learn how to do this), is that these dogs have a job and that they aren't necessarily "pets." so talk to the owner first (make eye contact with the owner, not the dog-i know, hard to do!) and ask them if it's OK to greet the dog before assuming that you can. if it is ok, then the owner can "release" the dog from their work before you pet them. if it's not OK, simply talk to the owner (mention what a beautiful day it is!) or just walk away. in either case, all parties will be enlightened and the service dog and owner will appreciate your mindful actions. you will be able to recognize a service dog by a vest or a badge that indicates that it is indeed a service dog. <a href="http://www.newhorizonsservicedogs.org/about-us/gallery/clients-dogs-in-action">here are some pictures of service dogs in action!</a><br /><br />a therapy dog, is exactly what it sounds like. a dog that provides a therapeutic experience to those who interact with it. geez, given that definition all dogs could be therapy dogs, right?! nope. therapy dogs must go through a vet check, discipline/obedience course and evaluation, and be affiliated with a group that organizes visits to hospitals, clinics, and facilities. in fact, most domesticated pets can become a therapy animal, and organizations like <a href="http://www.furryfriends.org/">furry friends pet assisted therapy services</a> assist with this process. <a href="http://mywhitepaw.wordpress.com/2010/01/02/therapy-dogs/">here</a> are some touching stories of strays becoming therapy dogs.<br /><br />i have seen therapy dogs work in multiple ways. some examples include: having the client brush the dog to increase their strength and range of motion in their arms; having the client direct the dog to do certain tricks, thus having the client work on giving commands and praise when executed well; and lastly having the client walk the dog a few feet initially and gradually increase the distance over time, thus working on strength and endurance. <a href="http://www.tdi-dog.org/Introduction.aspx?Page=Photos">here are some pictures of therapy dogs in action!<br /></a><div class="im"><br />ok, 2 more items worth mentioning: 1) champ, the inspiration behind <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits, is on his way to becoming a certified therapy dog. in fact, i made that one of our new year's resolutions. now i just need to make the time to do it! 2) there is yet another article worth mentioning in the <a href="http://www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/r/toc.htm">august/september issue of animal wellness</a>. this article illustrates a good picture of what to consider when getting a dog for someone with a disability (and not necessarily a service dog), and what breeds are good for certain purposes. it also mentions some amazing jobs of what different types of service dogs can do, like detecting when a person with type 1 diabetes has a severely low blood sugar level by smelling their breath, and then somehow indicating that the person needs to drink juice or eat. what the article doesn't mention is where to go to find a service dog. i would recommend <a href="http://www.cci.org/site/c.cdKGIRNqEmG/b.3978475/k.BED8/Home.htm">CCI</a>, but also know that there are smaller organizations that train and provide service dogs. a lot of figuring out where to go for a service dog depends on one's location and what feels like a good fit with one's needs.<br /><br /></div>i hope this post clearly distinguishes the differences between service and therapy dogs. if you've made it this far to the end of the post, i sincerely thank you for reading, as this means a lot to <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(136, 136, 136);"> </span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-22406339198402332012010-07-09T13:33:00.001-07:002010-08-09T17:05:56.459-07:00and now introducing...the JOY biscuits café line<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PqKr1oFa_j01EjrA8nBbhZguHDer7vWfeT42yY_lEHXp0Ghvn0Qo0KdS3DXcm9sJ5Ni6VaO24b3Mq5fG8KSm61uJAnViVQgcgwWYimk4f7w1ZoXNC5m-8c2nCMYon6ri4YROROVG/s1600/IMG_2636.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PqKr1oFa_j01EjrA8nBbhZguHDer7vWfeT42yY_lEHXp0Ghvn0Qo0KdS3DXcm9sJ5Ni6VaO24b3Mq5fG8KSm61uJAnViVQgcgwWYimk4f7w1ZoXNC5m-8c2nCMYon6ri4YROROVG/s320/IMG_2636.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492008631478315202" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;">ohhhh baby, yes those are large <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits! bigger isn't always better, but when you're on the run and your dog has been especially good, they deserve an extra special treat. let's face it, when you treat yourself to your favorite caffeinated drink, cupcake, or cocktail, you want to share the experience with your furry friends, right? thus the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits café line was born! these <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits are made with the same wholesome ingredients that the original biscuits are made with and are packed in a compostable baggy.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj9JefPD6SF_aO1aYqjvrQMqlAF74PNvZzZJqU86gnEIeV5o3VQj2hlEZK_eE7K4rQcC-Dv9UgiIBl1ZdrwrfwudxZ2kDM0gvVMI6f5rrl8SKpRjDAKFmEeGYDlU5x2HSfoLWb0jP/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj9JefPD6SF_aO1aYqjvrQMqlAF74PNvZzZJqU86gnEIeV5o3VQj2hlEZK_eE7K4rQcC-Dv9UgiIBl1ZdrwrfwudxZ2kDM0gvVMI6f5rrl8SKpRjDAKFmEeGYDlU5x2HSfoLWb0jP/s320/IMG_2629.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492005020504299250" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">the café line packages come in 1 large biscuit and 2 medium sized biscuits. you can find the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits café line at that takes the cake, cheengoo, george, and jeffrey's. our plan is to have them available at your local dog-friendly coffee shop, bike shop, winery, restaurant, b&b, hotel, you name it! we're super excited to introduce this new line of larger <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits to you!</span><br /></div> <span style="font-size:130%;"><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj9JefPD6SF_aO1aYqjvrQMqlAF74PNvZzZJqU86gnEIeV5o3VQj2hlEZK_eE7K4rQcC-Dv9UgiIBl1ZdrwrfwudxZ2kDM0gvVMI6f5rrl8SKpRjDAKFmEeGYDlU5x2HSfoLWb0jP/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG"></a></span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-46206191091486612862010-05-29T07:02:00.000-07:002010-05-31T00:10:02.983-07:00cleansing and fresh breath update!well hello! long time no post, i know, i know. there has been so much going on: 1) developing a monthly biscuit cluBAnna (named after our furry friends in north carolina who love <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits, and whose parents pre-paid 3 flavors of treats to be mailed to them monthly for several months!), 2) a new <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuit size and package to be launched soon, and 3) finding a local outfit to help us print<span style="font-weight: bold;"> JOY</span> biscuits t-shirts! we also currently have a new spring seasonal flavor: <span style="font-style: italic;">banana, sunflower, & carob</span> - so far it has been a hit! this biscuit is good for <span style="font-style: italic;">healthy skin and coat</span> and may even become a regular flavor of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuit line! but i digress, these updates are not the purpose of this post...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://herbgardening.com/HerbGardeningImages/DillAnethum_graveolens250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 184px; height: 310px;" src="http://herbgardening.com/HerbGardeningImages/DillAnethum_graveolens250.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>the purpose of this post is to share some information i've read recently in the summer issue of an awesome holistic publication: <a href="http://www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/r/toc.htm">animal wellness magazine</a>. it concerns this beautiful herb above: <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">dill</span>. in an article written by audi donamor, dill leaves and dill seeds are claimed to be a healing and nutritious herb. by simply adding chopped fresh dill to your dogs food and dill tea (made by steeping dill seeds) to their food and/or water, doggy breath can go from really bad to good! in addition to this, dill helps to reduce flatulence and contains heaps of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, thiamine, and vitamin A. so, what does this mean? this means that the mint, parsley, & charcoal cleansing and fresh breath <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits will soon be made with dill tea (as opposed to just filtered water) to add the benefits of this wonderful herb! we're also in the process of developing another cleansing and fresh breath flavor: ginger, mint, and wheatgrass!JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-78480989912517607682009-12-30T21:03:00.000-08:002010-06-03T15:36:38.620-07:00the best things come in small packages<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFkDbiYpdEIcSEv4cKdgkOEiZn_rB10N-a_0aIK-ycUG833h1yB1JxUdU-uWRC-vFd2R92xyUVexqH9RFcWPqX_vlvyesA6Ll6A9AhfC3d_DAC9LETxV04GSsDLaCT0YfdA8hdDEH/s1600-h/IMG_1185.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFkDbiYpdEIcSEv4cKdgkOEiZn_rB10N-a_0aIK-ycUG833h1yB1JxUdU-uWRC-vFd2R92xyUVexqH9RFcWPqX_vlvyesA6Ll6A9AhfC3d_DAC9LETxV04GSsDLaCT0YfdA8hdDEH/s320/IMG_1185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421263770396606866" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;">yup, that's right! and even though our package is small, you still get 10-18 <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY </span>biscuits per package </span><span style="font-size:130%;">(2.25 ounces minimum net weight)</span><span style="font-size:130%;">. sizes of the biscuits do vary, as each one is individually hand-rolled. we believe that small dogs deserve big treats and even big dogs can enjoy a small treat from time to time. we would like to add that <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits fit in multiple sizes of kongs and other brain teaser/interactive toys too! pictured here are our mint, parsley, & charcoal <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits for cleansing and fresh breath. click <a href="http://www.joybiscuits.com/biscuits_mint.html">here</a> for more info on this popular flavor and HAPPY 2010!</span><br /></div>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-35390785847196044452009-12-19T23:35:00.000-08:002009-12-19T23:53:03.688-08:00JOY biscuits is now at cheengoo on union<span style="font-size:130%;">we are pleased to announce that cheengoo is part of the </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits family!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDtvQeaAtyLMjKJA9d_pWvA0-jrv9yFD6mqd0EyTJegSJhKjl7VDasOGgC-VqqtZS-FJJcAwXzDxYfqzs08HB6g9qoyv9UyjkkuBirsVS0q2R2EXOYjmVvdYepk7WAkx3eHevEDfN/s1600-h/IMG_0925.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 208px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDtvQeaAtyLMjKJA9d_pWvA0-jrv9yFD6mqd0EyTJegSJhKjl7VDasOGgC-VqqtZS-FJJcAwXzDxYfqzs08HB6g9qoyv9UyjkkuBirsVS0q2R2EXOYjmVvdYepk7WAkx3eHevEDfN/s200/IMG_0925.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417219961223535378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />the cheengoo pack is super friendly and has very cute boutique products, check them out at:<br /><a href="http://www.cheengoo.com/about.php">http://www.cheengoo.com/about.php</a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />we wish you a very happy holiday and thank you for your support! more to come very soon...</span></span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-60524838908468228242009-11-20T01:39:00.000-08:002009-11-20T01:58:22.815-08:00JOY biscuits fall seasonal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAS7qMsj07e14KKcp2hG7MmBsq5se3k6NDF1761yu7G5-ToOG821YUQo7gkFXoczqAVzEqOPsxfWZSf8DQEUvYjgPL-OrM0vPY_K6ckoum_t6mlWuome0cjclftMZy8Comib8gZ4cu/s1600/IMG_0875.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAS7qMsj07e14KKcp2hG7MmBsq5se3k6NDF1761yu7G5-ToOG821YUQo7gkFXoczqAVzEqOPsxfWZSf8DQEUvYjgPL-OrM0vPY_K6ckoum_t6mlWuome0cjclftMZy8Comib8gZ4cu/s320/IMG_0875.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406118431736361106" border="0" /></a><br />ok folks here it is, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuit for the fall: pumpkin and cranberry! these ones are tasty too! we basically used a very similar recipe to the sweet potato & chamomile and substituted the sweet potato for pumpkin. add some dried cranberries and <span style="font-style: italic;">voila</span>! however, i couldn't find dried cranberries without sugar and oils so we dried our own! this is a very arduous process, say 7+ hours...BUT it's worth it, and i think your 4-legged friend will agree. get some while they last!JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-81698114233599488452009-11-07T16:58:00.000-08:002009-11-08T10:16:44.114-08:00JOY biscuits joins the facebook fan page network<span style="font-size:130%;">well, i finally did it. i launched a<a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/JOY-biscuits/98276976402?ref=ts"> facebook fan page for <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits</a> in late september! it took me a while, but after getting through the contemplative phase, creating a fan page just made sense. it was actually pretty easy to set up! you could say i'm a bit old school (i still carry around a hard copy calendar and write paper letters), but the point is: <span style="font-style: italic;">there is yet another way to connect with </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">JOY</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> biscuits!</span> (sorry fellow tweeters, but i don't see <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits entering the twitter world for a while...)<br /><br />so if i had to distinguish the levels of PR between the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits blog and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits facebook fan page, i would classify the blog as a more reflective "<span style="font-style: italic;">behind </span>behind the scene" piece. whereas the facebook fan page enables a more day-to-day "behind the scene" <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits network. i know, i know, these are the functional definitions of <span style="font-style: italic;">blog</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">fan page</span>, which may seem obvious to some, but to my mind, I needed a way to justify having both. now you see how this is the <span style="font-style: italic;">"behind</span> behind the scene" special ingredient!?!<br /><br />oh and please feel free to check up on BOTH the blog and the fan page, as i promise you there will always be useful and interesting news to read! if you're not a fan yet, please feel welcome to become one and refer a friend who you know appreciates their dogs as much as you do!<br /><br /></span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-22095391087158506362009-09-30T01:02:00.000-07:002009-10-01T13:08:32.531-07:00the perfect eco-friendly package<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUI583dfsxfPYplP1QRkgaFZfP2e29foirV5PRjzro-7LceWg9xkLR9AWoO8qG-JsqxhWNcCPjcTFoJA5oZKwHrZK67p3wXLQ-bx4yIIPYHPP8y9QjVEl2gUeebc1xqBPT1NJHSSz/s1600-h/IMG_0459.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUI583dfsxfPYplP1QRkgaFZfP2e29foirV5PRjzro-7LceWg9xkLR9AWoO8qG-JsqxhWNcCPjcTFoJA5oZKwHrZK67p3wXLQ-bx4yIIPYHPP8y9QjVEl2gUeebc1xqBPT1NJHSSz/s200/IMG_0459.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387721730438115714" border="0" /></a>ok, this is definitely post worthy...since the beginning i had this vision of what <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits packaging would be like and in august it came true! i wanted a container that was craft brown and earth-friendly with a see through lid. the picture was very vivid in my mind, but finding the container was a challenge. finally after crossing paths with a friend of a friend, i discovered a <a href="http://worldcentric.org/biocompostables/bagasse">local company</a> that distributes bagasse containers!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZySnnO0nyhoOVxkktsgwiA5VqONJQ7TFnGqB4MIlIgiv2vh38rmXrdb05AN9NjXHt-MA-CE5kIz8VWUSNzV8z5D2yVG4wOFEiTA6rv_MPB29l1sw-56zis3XX6KDrLcsKXG8NKtX/s1600-h/IMG_0462.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZySnnO0nyhoOVxkktsgwiA5VqONJQ7TFnGqB4MIlIgiv2vh38rmXrdb05AN9NjXHt-MA-CE5kIz8VWUSNzV8z5D2yVG4wOFEiTA6rv_MPB29l1sw-56zis3XX6KDrLcsKXG8NKtX/s200/IMG_0462.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387723484638693874" border="0" /></a>bagasse is a sugarcane fiber that is biodegradable and compostable. these containers will break down in 1-3 months in a large scale compost program, and 2-4 months in a home compost bin depending on the temperature. the lids are made out of corn starch and other earth-friendly starches, and are also compostable! we feel these containers depict exactly what <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits is all about. we are sooo excited to start offering <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits in this packaging and think that you will like them too!JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-50182341122083025252009-09-20T01:04:00.000-07:002009-09-20T01:18:29.498-07:00JOY biscuits helps fund raise for GSGA!i have some VERY exciting news! <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits will be at the annual golden state greyhound adoption (GSGA) picnic in early october. we will be selling our tasty treats to help fund raise for this wonderful organization. if you would like to meet a greyhound and learn more about this amazing breed, go to a meet and greet! meet and greets occur all over the bay area and provide the opportunity to ask questions and meet a greyhound (we went to a few before adopting champ!). visit: <a href="http://www.goldengreyhounds.com/events/index.htm">http://www.goldengreyhounds.com/events/index.htm</a> for more details.JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-2562931928451991892009-09-19T23:50:00.000-07:002009-09-20T01:21:15.550-07:00the evolution of JOY biscuits recipespeople frequently ask me where i get my recipes from.<br />the answer is<span style="font-style: italic;">, i create them! </span><br /><br />after months of researching recipes online and baking...and making modifications from batch to batch...the outcome of <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits recipes have been positively met with enthusiasm and happy dogs! when i initially started baking dog biscuits (before the creation of <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits) i used wheat flour. then after reading about how wheat is ubiquitous in dog food recipes and that many dogs develop allergies to wheat, i discontinued including wheat flour in my recipes. i found that using alternative flours (like brown rice flour, and rye and barley flours) were more easy on the digestive system and just as nutrient-rich, if not more, as wheat. i should also mention that greyhounds who are newly retired from the track have notably sensitive stomachs and i wanted to create a treat that even the "fresh off the track greyhounds" could enjoy without any GI distress.<br /><br />if your furry friend was part of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits R&D pack in the early stages, you know that the first round of healthy skin and coat biscuits (peanut butter & flax round A, batches 1-3 and round B, batch 1) did not have sunflower seed meal. after stumbling upon some interesting articles and talking with my vet friend, i learned that omega-6 fatty acids, more specifically linoleic acid (LA) is the fatty acid that aids in a healthy skin and coat. LA optimizes water permeability in the skin, thus being a great treatment for dry, dull, and brittle skin and coats. in fact, there are no scientific studies showing that dogs actually transform omega-3s into linoleic acid (like humans do) to benefit from the anti-inflammatory benefits. therefore <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits added sunflower seed meal to the healthy skin and coat biscuit line.<br /><br />sunflower seeds are high in omega-6 acids (more so than flax seed), and are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals which are cancer-fighting and promote heart health.<br /><br />i hope this sheds some light on the evolution of <span style="font-weight: bold;">JOY</span> biscuits recipes and thanks for reading!JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-25607993725074577642009-07-23T17:05:00.000-07:002009-07-23T17:22:44.886-07:00JOY biscuits at 14,505 feet!i get a kick out of this - i give the dog's pack leader biscuits and they end up eating them...on top of mt whitney! HA!<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361812775741294082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJq7FGSG7GmSSSupylTBJZ0lW9OJet9L1jQfjjV24dN0YP8a78I60viLBuCYJrkvm9xvQ80mfWgyPilQ2wFUUfWcjr94x_5GxdTf7r3a-vU-7lO4sVoA3lemsbsIbn0a89ZJdcQYEI/s200/sunflower.jpg" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKB-pLAjl-QU3wTtzc2U4bZ7osD_EgLDN7THeB-PeRPqVgZUZDC86qu5umrF6YcHqRjjK-HAuDFfTRJItHsKlJlHgoLBzkMaztzxh4JjVvMhNUlDsgvlVNFTst0KEDMzaZNNPyYUX/s1600-h/daniela.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361812072139492194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKB-pLAjl-QU3wTtzc2U4bZ7osD_EgLDN7THeB-PeRPqVgZUZDC86qu5umrF6YcHqRjjK-HAuDFfTRJItHsKlJlHgoLBzkMaztzxh4JjVvMhNUlDsgvlVNFTst0KEDMzaZNNPyYUX/s200/daniela.jpg" /></a><br /><div>ok, so remember how i said my friends really like the sunflower, PB, & flax biscuits? well our friends dave and daniella hiked up mt whitney a few weeks ago and dave suprised daniella with some biscuits i gave him (for willow, daniella's boxer). daniella wrote in her email, "Dave surprised me with these at the summit. AMAZING. I am serious - I want to start buying these for myself (sorry, Willow!)...how?"</div><div></div><div>the answer to how to buy is either through me, or through <strong><em>that takes the cake</em> on union street in SF</strong>, or at the <strong><em>holistic hound</em> in berkeley</strong>. more details to follow! btw, that packaging differs from our store packaging. like i said, more details to follow!</div><div></div>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-23077070831097045972009-07-15T22:38:00.000-07:002009-07-20T13:15:01.193-07:00elan, how do YOU like dem biscuits?!?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVai5Wqt_nUSj2F9Ti76jgW5cRRZ6W5rOuA_smoG4CdKicuSXh0XV0ehd6lMYvHVahIOFPJsr02l_dQfnJjm809gGV-qBxhVKlppYSruA9bSstU16bz2zPU_ASYN_nKtFiQbCOKGl/s1600-h/IMG_0282.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358930296396835314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVai5Wqt_nUSj2F9Ti76jgW5cRRZ6W5rOuA_smoG4CdKicuSXh0XV0ehd6lMYvHVahIOFPJsr02l_dQfnJjm809gGV-qBxhVKlppYSruA9bSstU16bz2zPU_ASYN_nKtFiQbCOKGl/s200/IMG_0282.JPG" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">yes, that's right. </span><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits are taste tested by dogs and humans! </span>in fact, my dear friend's nephew loved them (the sunflower, PB, & flax ones), and he's a very picky eater! he already had one in his mouth and reached for another one right out of the bag before swallowing! the sunflower, PB, & flax flavor seems to be a favorite of many of my human friends. they taste kinda like trail mix and have a nice crunchy light texture. the </span><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold;font-size:100%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> biscuits also made it on the cheese plate! </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><p></span><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360638138129879202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzep07hMKwMryJzQ0HI6I06bYYnGTYCTDpLgZCA_guMCFAC-wtRQqSyO5v2_Y1xrrijWlkbnu5ikmGZ9tPmIPiQozAR0dSt4sVL7PEk4UBf5YVOIusbm_9w3tjhezvRmrRHlJlnUCK/s200/chz.jpg" /></p><p><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPQ8rmLHKSIvcqlUymCmQJPImnjk3rAH9GmO-H-D-aIqX5UCGvaCBy16PFaAo0nAb3e6ylrMsmyb3do85Dvg1o4RVkpAAFGwvu9v_T22qSxeJKYBEwj_bh7NRr6HRg54d2AV39Jjm/s1600-h/IMG_0285.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 152px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358932053474675122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPQ8rmLHKSIvcqlUymCmQJPImnjk3rAH9GmO-H-D-aIqX5UCGvaCBy16PFaAo0nAb3e6ylrMsmyb3do85Dvg1o4RVkpAAFGwvu9v_T22qSxeJKYBEwj_bh7NRr6HRg54d2AV39Jjm/s200/IMG_0285.JPG" /></a></span>here's a good photo to put the size of the biscuits in perspective. we are however making a larger size biscuit available as of this month. these are a few of my close friends from undergrad also enjoying the <strong>JOY</strong> biscuit tasting. people keep telling me i should market to humans in addition to doggies. although <span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">JOY</span> biscuits are made with fresh human grade ingredients, marketing to humans wasn't the initial idea. there are way more regulations to create and distribute a human food product, and well...let's just say that that may be a part of the future plan of <span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">JOY</span> biscuits!</p>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-19449439333667031172009-06-06T23:00:00.000-07:002010-05-31T23:23:43.692-07:00how do you like dem biscuits!?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTI2AqEXdgWvMazly-JHIPXzUx-tKTrkKMWSJmUPnZsH9RezTj82ntLJs5bbMp3WAx3WkLk3Wqsm_KAfWNJed4y0jZrHwMouY-bGSErPIwRMhjrab6u-e2JWRXXLV1X58C2khELCuF/s1600-h/IMG_4738.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTI2AqEXdgWvMazly-JHIPXzUx-tKTrkKMWSJmUPnZsH9RezTj82ntLJs5bbMp3WAx3WkLk3Wqsm_KAfWNJed4y0jZrHwMouY-bGSErPIwRMhjrab6u-e2JWRXXLV1X58C2khELCuF/s200/IMG_4738.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344467101963749634" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">get ready for the world's first authentic <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">artisanal</span> dog biscuit! </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits are always fresh, always handmade, and always natural. yes, they are the dog treat you and your dog have been waiting for (see why below) and yes, that is champ in the background, being </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >very</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> good and practicing his modeling skills...</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekEl-ojnj_pu4ZmaCOwxjF9PdygbucvCULIpJfNxQPSN4PDN-qRPGGvN80QsAzuzLElMG1GRVIMEpciKSSytpZzGOB7EUE-n1SsKMeo3OzHln_gxao16-yWr4BQCjuAvG3PMFTkQD/s1600-h/IMG_4736.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekEl-ojnj_pu4ZmaCOwxjF9PdygbucvCULIpJfNxQPSN4PDN-qRPGGvN80QsAzuzLElMG1GRVIMEpciKSSytpZzGOB7EUE-n1SsKMeo3OzHln_gxao16-yWr4BQCjuAvG3PMFTkQD/s200/IMG_4736.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344467097619649794" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">after months of research, taste tests, and baking we are proud to announce that we are ready for business! pictured are 4 of our 5 current flavors (from left to right): sunflower, PB, & flax/healthy skin and coat; sweet potato & chamomile/calming; mint, parsley, & charcoal/cleansing & fresh breath; and roasted lamb & rosemary/flea control; (not pictured are our roasted chicken and thyme biscuits, good for flea control).<br /><br />our unique design is also known as a </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" style="font-size:130%;">Koru</span><span style="font-size:130%;">, which comes from New </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" style="font-size:130%;">Zealand's</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> Native population, the Maori. the </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" style="font-size:130%;">Koru</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> represents a fern bud as it opens, bringing new life and beginnings to the world. we believe this symbol epitomizes what </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits brings to the lives of our furry friends: the beauty of simplicity that brings a feeling of great happiness and rejuvenation.<br /><br />we are SUPER excited to begin providing our tasty, meaningful, and healthy treats to dogs all over! thanks and good night...</span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-26859990694310684022009-06-03T07:02:00.000-07:002010-05-29T07:01:51.183-07:00check out our logo!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4unOfhTdOUT9O4fbIXr-Ts5zBkOepRaE2q_ryuEGrirCuc8NSN_rsKF0GHWfyhf-5znoHtgO6zAEGMsCwZMK1dNx41dHskRxeJ5O4rPYRYqCAeaBU8HPoONQWYrA7w8DbezgZOpG/s1600/Joy-Biscuits-Logo-RGB.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 444px; height: 342px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4unOfhTdOUT9O4fbIXr-Ts5zBkOepRaE2q_ryuEGrirCuc8NSN_rsKF0GHWfyhf-5znoHtgO6zAEGMsCwZMK1dNx41dHskRxeJ5O4rPYRYqCAeaBU8HPoONQWYrA7w8DbezgZOpG/s400/Joy-Biscuits-Logo-RGB.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476691542445851122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">i LOVE this! after many sketches and working with an awesome graphic designer, we have our official logo. this is what i think dogs see when they look at the golden gate bridge (which is a short walk from where </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits are baked). i like to call it the "golden bone bridge." special thanks to andy at <a href="http://www.tincanstudios.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">tin can studios</span></a> for working with me on this!<br /><br />the area where it used to say, "sweet potato & chamomile" will change on labels depending on the flavor of the </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuit. we will also place other facts about </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuits in this area, like, "wheat-free, corn-free, preservative-free, & soy-free." that is the blank area just to "lookers left" of the golden bone bridge.<br /><br />by the way, the sweet potato & chamomile </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >JOY</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> biscuit is our calming biscuit, which was especially developed to assist champ with his separation anxiety. for a complete list of our ingredients see our website!</span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8761880627516681887.post-91107569663055250522009-05-18T23:30:00.000-07:002009-06-07T23:12:26.395-07:00new beginnings...<span style="font-size:130%;">wow, this is it! we are getting close. i have always wanted to be a baker, but who knew it would be in the form of creating dog treats?! after months of R&D (which is ongoing), experimenting with various recipes, and jotting down ideas on envelopes, cards, and scrap pieces of paper - i am feeling like a real entrepreneur. i'm almost done with the business plan and JOY biscuits will be hitting shelves soon!</span>JOYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187725085886844033noreply@blogger.com0