Please Don't Buy Pets From Pet Stores Like Petland.
Please stay away from pet stores!
Let’s talk about Petland since they are one of the worst companies out there. Petland is a franchise chain of pet stores that primarily sell puppies, kittens, and small animals like birds, rabbits, and guinea pigs. On the surface, they appear to be a friendly and inviting place to buy a pet from, with brightly lit stores and a wide variety of animals to choose from. However, a closer look at Petland's practices reveals that they are not a responsible place to buy a pet from.
A sick dog from a Petland store in Georgia: HSUS
First and foremost, Petland has a long history of sourcing puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills are large-scale breeding operations that prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. Dogs in puppy mills are often kept in cramped, unsanitary conditions, with little to no human interaction or veterinary care. As a result, puppies from these facilities are often sick, poorly socialized, and prone to genetic defects and health problems.
Petland has been accused of sourcing puppies from puppy mills on multiple occasions. In 2008, the Humane Society of the United States conducted an investigation into Petland's practices and found evidence that many of their puppies came from large-scale breeding operations with numerous animal welfare violations. In response, Petland claimed that they only worked with "USDA-licensed breeders," but this is not a guarantee of responsible breeding practices or animal welfare. The USDA has been criticized for its lax oversight of commercial dog breeding facilities, and many puppy mills have managed to retain their licenses despite numerous violations.
In addition to sourcing puppies from puppy mills, Petland often sells puppies that are too young to be separated from their mothers. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, puppies should not be separated from their mothers until they are at least 8 weeks old. This is because puppies rely on their mothers for socialization and early learning, and separating them too soon can lead to behavioral problems and health issues. However, Petland has been known to sell puppies as young as 6 weeks old, which is a clear violation of animal welfare standards.
Another issue with Petland is their lack of transparency about their animal sourcing practices. The company claims that they work with "local breeders," but they do not provide any information about these breeders or their breeding practices. This lack of transparency makes it impossible for customers to know where their pets are coming from or whether they were raised in humane conditions.
In addition to their questionable animal sourcing practices, Petland has been criticized for their high prices and aggressive sales tactics. According to some former employees and customers, Petland employees are trained to use high-pressure sales tactics to convince customers to buy over priced pets and expensive pet products. In some cases, they may even misrepresent the health or temperament of the animals they are selling in order to make a sale. This kind of behavior is not only unethical, but it can also lead to customers purchasing pets that they are not equipped to care for.
Petland has also faced legal action for its treatment of animals. In 2014, a Petland store in Chicago was sued by the city for multiple violations of animal welfare laws, including keeping animals in unsanitary conditions and failing to provide adequate veterinary care. In 2016, a Petland store in Las Vegas was fined for failing to provide proper care for a sick puppy, leading to its death.
Petland is not a responsible place to buy a pet from. Their history of sourcing animals from puppy mills, selling animals too young to be separated from their mothers, and lack of transparency about their animal sourcing practices are all red flags for potential customers. In addition, their high prices and aggressive sales tactics are not in the best interest of the animals or the customers. If you are looking to add a pet to your family, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization that prioritizes animal welfare over profit. In my opinion, your local shelter is the best place to get a new pet for your home. You save a life and open up a spot for another pet at the shelter or rescue organization.
Please note that some pet stores only offer rescue animals. For example, in 2024, all pet stores in the state of New York will only be able to work instead with shelters to offer rescued or abandoned animals up for adoption. It will also ban breeders from selling more than nine animals a year. They will no longer be able to sell dogs, cats or rabbits from breeders. It’s important to do your research when you are looking to bring a new pet into your home. Make sure you know where the pet came from!
Consider These Things Before Adopting a Pet This Holiday!
Depending on who you ask, the holiday season can be a great time to welcome a new furry pet into your family or one of the worst times. The decision should not be taken lightly. No matter when you bring a pet into your home, careful thought must go into the process of deciding. Here are some critical considerations before adopting a dog or any other furry friend for that matter.
If you are not ready to bring a new pet into your home, that’s ok! You need to do what is best for you. If you aren’t ready, but decide to still bring a pet into your home, you are doing a disservice to you and the pet. So please put a lot of thought into the decision.
Assess Your Time & Lifestyle
Do you work long hours? Or maybe you work from home? Take a lot of vacations? All of these considerations should be thought of when it comes to the time you’ll be able to commit to your pet. You may need to line up additional pet care throughout the day, or after work, if your time at home is more sparse (which will likely cost additional money).
Where you live is also a factor. If you’re renting, be sure to ask your rental company if there are breed or size restrictions. Having a smaller space may deter you from getting a larger or more active dog. Not having a fenced-in yard may be another consideration for your pet’s safety and ease of pet ownership - which could be another cost to consider.
In addition to your daily routine, when you welcome a new pet into your family, it’s a lifelong commitment that can be more than 10 years, depending on the breed. Not only do you need to assess your current lifestyle, but you also need to factor in the future as well. This might also be a time in your life when you’re unable to commit to a pet, and that’s okay!
Here are the average lifespans of some popular pets:
Research Breed
After you’ve spent time assessing your lifestyle and availability to commit to your dog, it’s time to research which breed fits in line with that. If you have more time and maintain a more active lifestyle, finding a dog that can match that might be the way to go. More active dogs also require multiple walks a day or even play sessions in a park or your backyard. The bottom line is all dogs require a lot of attention throughout the day. Researching and meeting various dogs to see their temperament is always recommended before you commit and bring them home!
Budget Your Finances
Pet expenses can add up quickly. From all the initial essentials you’ll need for them (food, treats, crate, leash/collar) to the initial vet visit, you may be surprised at the initial cost - in addition to any adoption fees. If you’re adopting a puppy, you will also want to factor in spay and neutering surgery fees. In addition to those upfront costs, you’ll want to plan for potential boarding costs, doggy daycare, unexpected emergency vet bills, and maybe a few incidentals around your home too. You may even want to consider looking into pet insurance to help offset costs or plan for emergencies down the line. Budgeting to welcome a dog into your home, may take a little bit of time, but worth the planning!
Where to Find a Dog
There are many reasons why adopting from a local shelter is a great route to take, from helping your community to opening up a new space in that shelter for the next animal. Looking for a shelter or foster-based rescue organization near you? PetFinder has a great search feature here.
Endless Joy & Wet Kisses!
Just remember, after all the planning you’ll ultimately be adding a new member to your family and a new best friend. It’s also important to remember, that as much as you plan, all dogs and breeds have their own different backgrounds and may come with a few quirks. At the end of the day, you won’t ever be able to put a price on the love you’ll receive from your four-legged friend.
Greg’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide: Local Edition!
The holidays are upon us and the only thing we love more than animals here at Greg Murray Photography is supporting local businesses! To help make sure your pet or pet-loving family and friends are covered this holiday season, we’ve curated a simple Cleveland holiday gift guide.
Mishi Lifestyle
This Lakewood home decor bouquet offers unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and treasures, but the best part is Mishi Lifestyle has an entire pet section for your dog and cat friends. From Foggy Dog collars, to funny pet dishes, and toys. Mishi even stocks Greg’s books and 2023 Wall Calendars.
Luca’s Barkery
A new dog-friendly bakery and boutique located in the Hingetown neighborhood, this is a one-stop shop for homemade treats, cat and dog gear, and anything you might need when it comes to pet supplies.
Milo & Me
This fashionable boutique in Lakewood caters to all those dog and cat moms along with your four-legged friend with accessories, toys, treats, and more. The holidays are a little extra special since Jessica and Milo stock up on holiday-themed goodies like Treat Advent Calendars and festive clothing for women.
FunktiniLand
FunktiniLand is a eclectic Hingetown shop filled with artwork and home goods created by over 30 Ohio & Northeast Ohio artists, including Funktini Art. Besides the great gifts you can buy for humans, they carry Greg’s books and 2023 wall calendars. FunktiniLand offers goods in all different prices ranging from $5 to $1000 and mediums ranging from Digital Print to Functional Tea Towels
Soul Mutts Clothing
Apparel with a purpose! When you shop Soul Mutts, you are not only supporting animals in need and those who save and care for them, you are also supporting a small business. In honor of these naturally loyal beings and their genuine devotion, Soul Mutts donates a portion of every single purchase to a local rescue or shelter each month!
Pet’s General Store
Pet's General Store in Lakewood has been in business for over 30 years and offers a fresh selection of high-quality pet food for dogs, cats, fish, small animals, birds, and more! They often have some small animals, including cats, available for adoption! And don’t forget to meet the Pet’s General mascot, Gypsy the bird!
Give the Gift of Greg Murray Photography!
Rescue Dog & Rescue Cat Wall Calendars
Our 8th annual Rescue Dogs 2023 calendar is also a perfect gift to help ring in the new year. Rescue Dogs features fourteen dogs that Greg photographed over the last 2 years. New this year, we are also offering the Rescue Cats 2023 calendar, featuring twelve cats - a portion of the proceeds for these calendars will benefit Neighborhood Pets & Outreach Center.
Shop 2023 Rescue Dog & Cat Calendars
Session Gift Certificates
Give the gift of photos! Each holiday season, Greg offers a limited number of session gift certificates. For more details and to order yours, click here.
Books
Want to share a unique gift this holiday season? Greg Murray books share joy, stories of resilience, and plenty of adorable dogs! We encourage you to purchase our books at local and independent bookstores, but our books are also available at Amazon, Target, Barnes & Noble, BAM, or Indie Bound.
Shop Peanut Butter Puppies
Shop Pit Bull Heroes: 49 Underdogs With Resilience & Heart
Shop Peanut Butter Dogs
How to Prepare for Your Pet Photography Session
Are you visiting Greg Murray for an upcoming pet photography session? Here’s a quick guide to help you prepare for your visit and what you and your pet can expect at the studio.
What to Expect at Greg’s Studio
Greg’s photography studio, nestled on the near west side of Cleveland, was designed to be a pet-friendly space. Don’t worry, your pet can’t do any harm! With ruggables, ample toys, water, and treats – the furry talent will have plenty of space to sniff and explore before the session begins and between backdrop changes and shots.
While there are plenty of snacks, peanut butter, and toys at the photography studio, it’s always a great idea to bring your pet’s favorite high-value treat and favorite toy just in case they need a little extra motivation behind the camera. And don’t worry, we even have the supplies to clean up any happy accidents that might happen! Even the best pets still have accidents in the studio and that’s perfectly ok.
Please note that there is a dog trainer in our complex and there may be dogs being trained in the parking lot. All dogs, no matter how well trained, must be leashed from the moment they leave your car until they enter the studio and the door is closed. Safety is very important to us.
Posing With Your Pet & What to Wear
If you’re planning to get behind the camera with your pet, make sure to wear neutrals that complement them. For example, if you have a black pet, avoid wearing black so your pet can be the star of the photo. Avoid wearing patterns, watches, excess jewelry, or hair ties on your wrist. Your favorite pet outfits and accessories are always welcome, too!
Check out this Pinterest Color Scheme collection if you need some inspiration!
Just remember, when in doubt, bring options and Greg can help with the final details.
Get Your Pet Photo Session Ready
Your pet photography session is an investment, so make sure your pet is pampered and camera ready!
Do you have an active dog? Before the session plan for some exercise, as that might benefit a calmer shoot.
Plan for lighter meals as your pet is sure to get many treats throughout the session.
It does help if your dog understands some basic commands. Consider taking time in the weeks before your session to practice sit, stay, down, and any other commands your dog is familiar with. However, if your dog doesn’t know any of these commands or is very excited during your session and not in listening mode, don’t worry! Greg is one of the most patient people you’ll ever meet. Just because you see a great photo on his Instagram feed or website, doesn’t mean it was an easy photo to get.
Patience is Key
As stated above, Greg is very patient and understanding of all types of dogs and other animals. All pets are individuals and he gets it. Some animals, especially dogs and cats, might be a bit nervous or really excited. They may not listen like they do at home. This is all ok. Your patience is required too.
Plan to Have Fun!
Greg’s goal is not only to capture your pet but also to provide a great experience from the first communication and the studio session to receiving your pictures. Greg brings patience and understanding with each session, each pet, and each experience in order to make sure owner and pet are comfortable and having fun while Greg captures the perfect shot.
More questions? Check out our FAQs here.
Top Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Dog
At Greg Murray Photography, every day is Adopt a Shelter Pet Day - but October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! Creating awareness around adopting from local shelters has never been more prevalent as animal shelters throughout the United States are overwhelmed with the number of rescues coming in daily, including the shelters in our own backyard of Cleveland.
Leo, adopted by Greg and his wife Kristen from the Cleveland APL in 2012
To help generate awareness around adopting from local shelters, here are important considerations and the benefits of rescuing a furry best friend.
Things to Consider When Adopting a Dog
Complete a lifestyle check: It’s important that you have enough time for your dog and find one that fits your lifestyle. Are you active? Do you live in a smaller home or apartment? Are you away from home a lot? It’s crucial to consider the pet's energy level (& your energy level), size once fully grown, noise level, and how the pet gets along with other pets and children.
Preparing For Your Pet: If you’ve found your new furry friend, it’s time to set up your home and prepare for their arrival. From a collar and lease to water bowls, food, beds, and a crate - there is plenty to plan for.
Cost: Bringing a pet into your home can be an expensive proposition. You want to be prepared for all sorts of costs, especially since animals really do become part of the family. Costs to Consider When Adopting a Pet from US News & World Report.
Find a Local Veterinarian: Scheduling and taking your new pet to the veterinarian is an important step, to establishing care along with getting any shots or uncovering any other potential health issues/concerns. Ask friends, family, or coworkers in the area for their veterinarian recommendations if you’re unsure where to start!
Get Ready to Take it Slow: It’s really important to take things slow with your shelter pet, from introducing them to friends/family and other household pets. In addition to taking it slow with introductions, it’s important to ease into new situations, as your pet most likely will change as they get more comfortable around you and in their home. All of these situations should be planned for and researched to ensure they’re done correctly!
Plan for Training: Shelter pets can come with a handful of qualities, from resource guarding to not knowing basic commands. Planning and signing up for training will not only help your pet but will also help you manage them in certain situations.
Benefits of Adopting A Rescue Dog
You’re Saving Multiple Pets Lives. In addition to giving your furry friend a second chance, you’re also allowing another pet in need the space at that shelter and a second chance at life!
A New Activity Partner. Your new four-legged friend is a perfect excuse to get our for a walk, hike, or run.
Free Therapy. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (aka stress) and lower your blood pressure - while increasing your happiness! Plus, you’ll always have someone who listens to you without judgment.
Saying No to Cruel Breeders. Animals, especially puppies purchased at pet stores, are often the result of cruel breeding facilities. When you adopt, you’re helping your community instead of filling a breeder's pocket.
Unconditional Love and a New BFF. Shelter animals are ready to give love and are often so thankful for a comfy bed and consistent home with treats! In addition to unconditional love, you’ll also have a lifelong best friend and family member.
Find a Shelter and Rescue Organization Near You
Looking for a shelter or foster based rescue organization near you? PetFinder has a great search feature here
It Won’t Be What You Expect
No matter how much you prepare for a new furry friend, you won't be able to predict all the expenses or time you will spend on your adopted dog or other pet. Most people find it's more than worth it for all the wonderful benefits of having a dog in your life.
You can never really know what it will be like, but you can prepare for adoption by being aware of the costs and various time commitments so they won't be a a negative surprise.
Meet Crowler, the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Crowler is a one-year-old tripod pit bull mix. He was adopted by Pauline Kossakowksi as a foster fail from Cleveland APL. Crowler arrived at the shelter with four legs. However, one of his legs got infected and could not be saved through rehabilitation. The infection got to a point where he was rushed to an emergency clinic to amputate his leg. Pauline works for Cleveland APL, and she decided to foster him until he could find his forever home. However, plans changed "he enchanted not only my other dog (Tea Cup); but my family immediately fell in love," said Pauline. Pauline and her family had fostered in the past, this time was different, "I'd fostered other dogs before – but this one was different. She (Tea Cup) made it clear to me that not even she could bear the thought of losing her best friend to another family."
Although Crowler has three legs, he is still like any other puppy his age. You can hardly tell he has three legs, "he's proven that he could compete against track athletes without growing tired." He also likes to show off how smart he is to everyone he meets.
Pauline commented a photo of Crowler and his foster sister Roxy (formerly Maddie) on Facebook. Both Crowler and Roxy were chosen to be in 'Peanut Butter Puppies'! When Pauline arrived at Greg's studio for Crowler and Roxy's photoshoot, "You could immediately see the love in his eyes for two dogs he had just met for the first time," says Pauline.
Crowler has a big soft heart and has been through a lot at a young age. He is the missing piece his family did not know they needed. Make sure to check out Crowler and his foster sister Roxy in 'Peanut Butter Puppies'!
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Titan the Rescue Dog!
The very excited and happy Titan stopped by to say hi recently. He did not disappoint! We love that smile!
Bean and Rosie's Studio Session!
We had a mother & daughter photo session! Rosie (left below) had 7 puppies while being fostered a few years back. The humans fostering Rosie decided to adopt her and one of the puppies, Bean!
Finn the Therapy Dog!
Finn stopped by the studio recently and asked if he could show off the fact that he’s a Browns fan!
Meet Bullet the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Bullet is a nine-month-old German Shepherd rescue adopted from Impawsible Mutts Dog Rescue. Bullet has come a long way since Tristin, the President of Impawsible Mutts Dog Rescue, brought him home. When Bullet was adopted, he had behavior issues and weighed 13 pounds when he should have been 25 pounds. Bullet was not Tristin's first rescue, "I have a large pack of 12 dogs. Everyone is a rescue." Tristin was not actively searching for another dog when she came across Bullet. He was a foster dog Tristin could not let go of.
Bullet is currently training to complete the Barnhunt. The "Barnhunt is a dog sport where dogs use their noses to search a ring for a rat in a tube that is hidden in bails of hay," explained Tristin. Bullet has a long nose because he has a two-inch overbite causing eating and drinking to look silly. He is a silly, goofy, clumsy, and vocal baby. Tristin said, "A puppy I previously fostered was photographed for the book as well, and she (the owner) suggested I reach out and gave me his information!" She said working with Greg was a great experience. "He was extremely patient, and you could really tell his direct care for dogs!"
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Meet Bugg, the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Bugg is a ten-month-old shepherd/retriever mix. He was delivered by Friendship APL in Elyria to Scott Smith, Kate Riley, and their dogs Bam Bam a shepherd/retriever mix rescue, and Lady, a border collie mix.
During the pandemic, the couple decided they wanted to rescue another dog. "We had submitted an application to Friendship APL and joined the puppy deliver adoption page," says Kate. The couple did not have a specific breed in mind when searching for a new addition to their family. However, when they came across Bugg's litter on Facebook, they were on board since they already had a great experience with the breed. Scott was the one who picked out Bugg from his litter. "Scott was supposedly taking a nap and then yelled downstairs that he got us a black puppy named Tucker (now Bugg), and he was very excited," says Kate. Since the couple adopted through a delivery page, Bugg was delivered to their home.
Bugg is energetic and loving. He loves playing. Bugg rarely stops playing except for the occasional power nap. Bugg is not one to play fetch. Instead, he prefers to chase Lady "while she plays fetch and jumps over her when she's running back with the ball," says Kate. Bugg loves to pounce and snuggle on the couch. Additionally, he has started to enjoy laying and rolling around in the leaves outside. Bugg has helped Bam Bam, their three-year-old shepherd/retriever mix, break out of his shell.
Greg contacted Kate after she posted a picture of Bugg on Facebook. Kate was shocked when Greg reached out to her about the book. "Greg asked me to fill out a survey. When I got home, I immediately called my husband and told him I made a huge mistake." She was worried about how Bugg would behave during the shoot. "When we showed up, I was convinced we were going to waste Greg's time, and Bugg wasn't going to be cooperative." She soon realized that was not the case! It took a little bit for Bugg to warm up to Greg. However, he loved peanut butter. Kate says, "Greg was super nice and calm and didn't rush trying to get Bugg to warm up to the whole situation. He calmed me down by saying Bugg was doing great, and by the end of the shoot, Bugg was sitting between Greg's feet and didn't want to leave!" Although Kate had her concerns before the shoot, Bugg was one of four dogs who made the book's cover!
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Meet Echo, the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Echo is an eight-month-old Boxer mix. He was adopted from Pinealope Animal Rescue in Ravenna, Ohio, by the Navratil family—Megan, Ron, and their two daughters Ella (14) and Leah (11). The Navratil family decided to adopt during the pandemic, which has become popular. The increase in puppy adoptions has made it difficult for families to find the right pup. "I had been searching since early April...Petfinder, breeders, you name it. Application after application, near and far...and no luck," says Megan. The family knew they wanted to get a Boxer mix, and after three months of searching, they came across Echo's litter on the Pinealope Petfinder Facebook page. They fell in love with the white markings on his body.
Echo was the perfect fit for the family. He has a playful personality, and his favorite trick is to give high-fives. Echo loves car rides and will often hang his head out the window and enjoy the wind in his face. He enjoys walks in the Cleveland Metroparks and loves to greet other dogs during his walks.
Echo was asked to be in Peanut Butter Puppies following a Model Call posted by Greg. Megan received an application for the shoot, and Echo was accepted. Before the photoshoot, Echo only had peanut butter once. Since then, it has become one of his favorite treats. During the shoot, "Echo was a bit afraid of the camera and flash, but Greg was so calm and patient...and as a result, captured such adorable images of Echo!" says Megan. She was happy that Greg could capture Echo's expressive ears. "Our favorite is the one (ear) up, one out to the side look, which Greg captured perfectly in a photo!"
Echo has brought much happiness to the Navratil family since he was adopted at the beginning of July 2020. He has also been a lot easier than the family anticipated, and they would not change a thing!
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Meet Bullet the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Bullet is a nine-month-old German Shepherd rescue adopted from Impawsible Mutts Dog Rescue. Bullet has come a long way since he was brought home by Tristin, the President of Impawsible Mutts Dog Rescue. When Bullet was adopted, he had behavior issues and weighed 13 pounds when he should have been 25 pounds. Bullet was not Tristin's first rescue, "I have a large pack of 12 dogs. Everyone is a rescue." Tristin was not actively searching for another dog when she came across Bullet. He was a foster dog Tristin could not let go of.
Bullet is currently training to complete the Barnhunt. The "Barnhunt is a dog sport where dogs use their noses to search a ring for a rat in a tube that is hidden in bails of hay," explained Tristin. Bullet has a long nose because he has a two-inch overbite causing eating and drinking to look silly. He is known for being a silly, goofy, clumsy, and vocal baby. Tristin said, "A puppy I previously fostered was photographed for the book as well, and she (the owner suggested) suggested I reach out and gave me his information!" She said working with Greg was a great experience. "He was extremely patient, and you could really tell his direct care for dogs!"
Finn the Puppy in Studio!
We were on a recent trip to Lakewood Truck Park and saw this handsome little guy! I couldn’t resist inviting him to the studio.
Each time I see a “pit bull” type dog in Lakewood I get a happy feeling inside. From 2008 to 2018, dogs that looked like Finn were banned from the city I call home. Now they are welcome and treated like the individuals they are. It’s been almost 3 years and I still smile when I spot a pittie I haven’t seen before.
Tank's Studio Session!
Tank visited Cleveland with his humans recently for a studio session and he did not disappoint with his facial expressions!
Enjoy some of our favorites from the session.
Meet Rufus the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Rufus is a rescue from Portage County APL when Rufus was adopted into his forever home with the Crandall family. The Crandall family has two daughters, Maia, age eight, and Paige, age five, and two older dogs than Rufus. He is known for being hyper. He is very active and described as a "bull in a China shop." Maia and Paige said, "Something funny is he got his big head stuck in a baby gate." At times "Rufus thinks he is a human and will lay in beds, head on a pillow and cover himself up with a sheet," says Michelle Crandall.
One of the family's central values is rescuing animals and impacting Maia and Paige despite their age. "My oldest daughter took part in her first puppy mill protest earlier this year," says Michelle. When Maia and Paige were asked why rescuing is important, they said, "Because it's the right thing and nice thing to do. It's better for our world." Rufus is not the Crandall's first rescue, "Every pet we have ever owned has been a rescue. Currently two older dogs and Rufus. We recently lost two rescued cats (ages 20 and 17), and we have lost two other rescued dogs due to age and illness" said Michelle.
Rufus is believed to be part pit bull, which is one of the reasons the family decided to adopt him. The family knows the breed is misunderstood due to a negative association developed by society. The Maia and Paige said, "His big nugget head is why we picked him, and he was cute." The family was picked to have Rufus in the book through Facebook. Maia and Paige came along to the photoshoot and were included in some photos. Michelle says, "Greg's love for animals was so evident during the shoot." The family believes Rufus was a perfect addition to their family.
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Meet Fiona Wigglesworth the Peanut Butter Puppy!
By Isabel Merriman
Fiona Wigglesworth is a one-year-old Boston Terrier from the Rescue Inn in North Olmsted, Ohio. She was adopted by Crissy and Neal Stelmaschuk and their two kids, Tyler and Brady. Along with their two other rescues Yogi a six-year-old lab mix from One at a Time K9 Rescue, and Karma, a four-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix from Friendship APL.
Crissy and Neal were not actively looking for a third dog, but they always had the mentality, "Three dogs is too many…Unless the third is a Boston," said Crissy. Crissy and Neal love Boston Terriers, and their first rescue was a Boston Terrier, "we've missed her tremendously since she passed. We always wanted another, but they are extremely hard to come by as a rescue. Then a friend messaged me one day to me show me a foster dog she just picked up, and it was Fiona! It was love at first sight, and we knew immediately that we wanted to make her a part of our family," said Crissy. Fiona was the Stelmaschuk's fourth rescue. "There are many, so many wonderful dogs out there sitting in shelters or bouncing around different foster homes; it doesn't make sense to buy from a breeder. While I know there are lots of reputable breeds out there, there are just as many, if not more, that treat their dogs horribly, and I just can't support that," says Crissy.
Fiona had some health issues that almost took her life. "She came from a puppy mill, and they were going to kill her because they thought she was sick and would infect all the other dogs. The rescue convinced them to surrender Fiona to them, and it turned out she just had Demodex! A couple of months of flea prevention medication, and she was perfect," said Crissy. Fiona is known to be a diva and loves to be the center of attention, and if she is not the center of attention, she will make it known. "When we go for walks in the neighborhood, she will stop and stare at people, waiting for them to come and pet her. She is highly offended when they don't," says Crissy. Fiona tends to gravitate towards Yogi and loves to play with him.
Crissy saw a "model call" on Facebook for 'Peanut Butter Puppies,' and she thought Fiona would be perfect for the book. She had never met Greg in person before, and she said they "felt like old pals." Fiona quickly warmed up to Greg and "was a total ham for the entire photoshoot"! Fiona loves meeting every human and animal she encounters. She makes the family laugh daily.
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
Signed/Personalized pre-orders are available on our website.
Meet Cali the Peanut Butter Puppy!
Peanut Butter Puppies is available for pre-order on Amazon now
By Isabel Merriman
Cali is a nine-month-old pit bull rescue from Muttley Crue in Cleveland, Ohio. She was rescued by Jill and Adam Anrikanich and their two sons, Mason and Cameron. The Anrikanich family began looking to adopt a puppy for their sons to play with since their fourteen-year-old lab passed. Jill said, "My mom, cousin, and aunt all have rescued, and I felt like it was time to do the right thing." The family heard wonderful things about pit bulls from coworkers, family, and friends.
When the family began searching online for their rescue puppy, they decided to start with Muttley Crue. Adam's former coworker used to volunteer there, and the family wanted to give it a shot. When they came across Cali, they fell in love with her instantly. Jill said, "I loved her eyes and her white stripe down her face." Cali has brought joy to the family from the moment they adopted her, and there is never a dull moment. "She is extremely loving, loves to cuddle, has the zoomies at least twice a day, loves visitors, other dogs, and has the softest fur," said Jill. Cali has a very energetic personality, "When she jumps, she appears to float. She jumps straight up and always lands where she intends. It's amazing!" said Jill.
Cali does not like to sit still, "she loves running at the dog park, playing with our boys (Mason and Cameron), chewing toys/blankets/couch cushions, loves eating ice cubes, and playing on the trampoline." Cali is known to be very vocal, "If she's chewing her toy and drops it, she whines to have you pick it up."
The Anrikanich family heard about Greg through Jill's high school friend, a volunteer at City Dogs Cleveland. He follows Greg on social media. Her friend told her about his photoshoot, Jill decided to post a picture of Cali on Greg's Facebook page. Greg saw Cali's photo and reached out to Jill about photographing Cali for "Peanut Butter Puppies." The family had a blast during the photo shoot. "Greg was amazing! Very easy going, and Cali loved him and his peanut butter! We brought along our youngest son (Cameron), and Greg was great to him, too," said Jill.
The family is thankful to have rescued Cali. She has brought much joy and energy into their life. "She saved us so many times since we had to put our first dog to sleep." Cali shows how wonderful pit bulls can be.
Brody, Tucker, Ozzy and Their Humans!
We had so much fun exploring the flats with Brody, Tucker and Ozzy the puppy! Oh yeah, their humans came along too! Enjoy some of our favorites from the session.
