See also: How to take awesome pictures of your pets

A very informative Marketplace episode on what goes on behind the scenes at pet stores that sell dogs. Of course, I recommend checking Petfinder.com FIRST, since that's how I found my sweet Ruby. There are so many amazing pets available for adoption. Many of them are pure breeds that were given up by their previous owners for reasons not pertaining to the dog or its behaviour. I cannot believe anyone would have given up my sweet Ruby, she's the perfect dog! And it's sad to think that there is a chance that some of them will be put down if they can't find a home. So please, consider adopting instead of buying. Watch the entire episode online.

Here's the list:

      Dogs                    Cats
    1. Max                  1. Max
    2. Bailey               2. Chloe
    3. Bella                3. Tigger
    4. Molly                4. Tiger
    5. Lucy                 5. Lucy
    6. Buddy                6. Smokey
    7. Maggie               7. Oliver
    8. Daisy                8. Bella
    9. Sophie               9. Shadow
    10. Chloe               10. Charlie

"Max" also owned the distinction of the name with the most variations. VPI's database includes such Max-inspired pet names as Maximum Max, Max Power, Max Avalanche, Maximus Gladius Spartacus, Minimax, Sergeant Maxwell T. Steel, Max the Moose, Max Crime Fighter, Cherokee Max, Peanut Max, T.J. Maxx, Duramax, Fatmax, Maxmax, Maxator Midnight and Mad Max McNaughty.

Click here for more names that'll make you lol.

I stopped by Bark & Fitz to pick up a little something for Rubes for her birthday, naturally, and owner Gary recommended a Puppy Tough Ball. I told him I wasn't so sure, and that Ruby would go straight for the eyes, but he mentioned the Chew Guard Technology, a super tough, durable liner, plus reinforced seams. I got the pig. I had high hopes.

Here is the result after approximately 10 minutes:

It didn't stand a chance. Now, I don't mean to disparage this brand, it really is a great toy and would probably do quite well with other breeds. It is very difficult for toys to pass a Boston Chew Test, especially plush toys. I can't help but keep trying though...

Gracie Strudel is soooooo adorable!

• Contribute To Animal Rescue
• Protect 10 Shelter Dogs with Vaccinations
• Protect 10 Shelter Cats with Vaccinations
• Help Animal Victims of Natural Disasters
• Help spay or neuter a dog
• Help spay or neuter a cat
  
• Help a Cat Get to the Vet
• Spay/Neuter Four Pets in Rural America
• Care for Two Rescued Rabbits

Shop at the Animal Rescue site where every purchase you make funds food and care for rescued animals. Or, visit the World Animal Net directory (the world's largest database of animal protection societies) to find an animal charity near you. Canadians check out CanadaHelps.org.

If you can, please give generously!

1. If you have a live tree, make sure that you cover the water in the base so that your pets can't drink it. The pine sap and chemical additives used to extend tree life are dangerous if ingested.  Clean up fallen pine needles frequently as these can be toxic if swallowed.
2. Secure your tree so that it won’t fall if curious cats climb the branches.
3. Clean up all ribbons, and tinsel, and keep these decorations high enough that they are out of reach as they can block intestines if they are eaten by your pets.
4. If your cats are attracted by the sparkle of glass ornaments keep them high on the tree out of reach.
5. Purchase pet safe extension cords or spray the cords with bitter apple to prevent pets from chewing them.
6. Keep gifts containing food off the floor so that pets won’t be tempted to break into them.
7. Lilies, poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe leaves and berries can cause poisoning, vomiting, or diarrhea. Keep all of these out of your pets' reach, or don't buy them.
8. Don’t be tempted to feed your pets table scraps as high fat or high sugar foods can cause gastro-enteritis.
9. Don’t let pets eat chocolate, or foods containing garlic or onions, coffee, and definitely don’t feed them alcohol. Educate your guests to be sure they keep these poisons out of reach of your pets.
10. Burning great smelling candles is popular during the holidays. Keep open flames away from areas where curious kitty can reach. Cats brushing against candles can set their fur on fire.
11. Minimize stress on your pets by giving them a quiet area of the house when large groups friends or family visit your home.
12. Don’t give pets as holiday gifts. If you want a great gift for an animal lover give them pet toys, pet supplies, or gift certificates to pet stores... or better yet - donate to an animal charity on their behalf.

More resources:

1. Pet Poison Safety Tips For the Holiday Season
2. Pet safety tips for a happy holiday season
3. Holiday safety for your pets
4. Winter Holiday Pet Safety Tips
5. Pet safety during the holidays

• Tigrito Cat Bowl by Alessi
• M.A.X Giant Whale Scratcher
• Crystal Cat Collars
• Fling-ama-String
• itchy knee plush bird
• Gift ideas for cat lovers...