The Zen Pooch

Our New Commercial

2007-11-13T09:09:00.000-08:00

Check it out!

Crunch Cards: Edible Greeting Cards for Dogs

2007-08-31T15:15:00.000-07:00

A good friend just sent us the greatest greeting card we've ever received. What made it the greatest? After reading it, we were able toss it right down to pooches for them to enjoy. You see, this creative card was actually made of 100% Natural Rawhide. The pooches couldn't have been happier. The company that makes the cards is called PetLuvExpress.com and they have a cool site where you can order your own cards or just browse the funny greetings. Some of our favorites are below:

All cards are printed with pet-safe, non-toxic ink and include an envelope for mailing.

They also carry PURR-FECT GREETINGS Catnip Toy Greeting Cards for Cats.

The Zen Pooch Masseuse featured on Bravo's "Flipping Out"

2007-08-21T19:34:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday night’s episode of Bravo’s hit new reality show “Flipping Out”, see what happens when obsessive-compulsive real estate investor Jeff Lewis calls upon us to provide his prized pups with our Signature Zen Pooch Masseuse service.

The show airs this Tuesday night (8/21) at 10 PM on Bravo. Check out their homepage for details.

The Zen Pooch Says...

2007-08-20T02:30:00.001-07:00

The Zen Pooch says, "I don't smile for your approval. I smile to let you know I approve."

Check out the grins on our happy pooches! Click the image below for a slideshow.

All-Natural Safe Pet Food

2007-08-20T00:06:00.000-07:00

Shortly after the recent troubling recall, it became important for me to find a safe and all-natural pet food option to recommend to my clients and friends. Well I am thrilled to introduce you to Life's Abundance® Premium Health Food and excited that we are now able to offer it's exclusive benefits to you.

Their selection includes human-quality dog & cat food, supplements, treats and care products. All recipes are veterinarian formulated, inspired by nature and made using good science.

To make things easy, I will give you my top 5 reasons why you should switch to Life's Abundance®:

5. It is the FRESHEST PET FOOD AVAILABLE. Made right here in the USA, the food is cooked in small batches and then shipped directly to your door. No warehousing or hot trucks which can cause nutrient loss.

4. It is the HEALTHIEST PET FOOD AVAILABLE. Life’s Abundance® is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients such as premium all natural chicken and top quality catfish with the best fresh fruit, vegetables and select local farm foods. Their food also contains high quality extras such as proteinated minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and bacteria cultures known to have a beneficials effect on health and well-being.

3. It is the SAFEST PET FOOD AVAILABLE. Formulated by a nationally recognized holistic veterinarian, all products are made under the strict supervision of the APHIS. Their formulas contain absolutely NO by-products (feet, bones and intestines, etc.), NO chemical preservatives (BHA and BHT) and NO indigestible grains (corn, wheat, gluten and soy) which are often used as a protein source instead of meat.

2. It is the MOST PHILANTHROPIC PET FOOD AVAILABLE. A portion of their net profit goes to supporting the operations of the HealthyPetNet Foundation. Founded by Life’s Abundance® own Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM, this non-profit foundation is dedicated to the promotion, establishment, maintenance and management of animal rescue groups that are committed to rescuing abused animals in the U.S.

1. It is the MOST CUSTOMER FRIENDLY PET FOOD AVAILABLE. In addition to the wealth of information on their website, Life’s Abundance® formulators are personally available for weekly conference calls to discuss their products and answer all concerns. If you are interested in participating in an upcoming call, please let us know so that we may set it up.

To compare your brand to Life’s Abundance®: Click Here

The check out their selection of WHOLESOME TREATS: Click Here

Don't forget about the kitties: Click Here

For FREE PRODUCT SAMPLES: Click Here

Your pooch deserves the very best! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any additional questions or if you are interested in ordering Life’s Abundance® products from HealtyPetNet.

Laurel Canyon Dog Park

2007-08-14T23:46:00.000-07:00

This A-List park, nestled in a scenic West Hollywood canyon, is the perfect spot for your pooch to cut loose. Made famous in a recent episode of HBO's Entourage, one can expect lots of doggie play and great people watching too.

The energy level here is HIGH and at certain times of day the sheer number of dogs can be downright overwhelming to the uninitiated. The pooches chase balls, wrestle with each other and will surely get enough exercise to tire them out for the rest of the day.

Check out all the fun for yourself by clicking on the clip below:

Park Details:

3 Acres
Fully Gated
Separate Small Dog Area
Picnic Tables & Benches
Children's Playground
Water Source
Closed on Friday morning until 11 AM

Want a 360-degree view of the entire park? CLICK HERE

Location: 8260 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90046

As you can see from the video above, we sure know how to have a good time at the park. Wanna share your own park experiences with us? We'd love for you to leave a comment below or send a video our way.

Best Friends Super Adoption

2007-05-31T23:33:00.000-07:00

Join us at the Best Friends Super Adoption this Sunday. We will be sharing a booth with Molly's Mutts & Meows. Come on by. Say hello. Rescue a pooch.

100% Biodegradable Dog Waste Bags

2007-05-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

One of our goals at The Zen Pooch is to utilize products that not only benefit our pooches, but also help sustain the Earth.

We are proud to let you know that we exclusively use Certified 100% Biodegradable Dog Waste Bags from BioBag.

These are the ONLY poop bags that meet California law for biodegradable AND compostable products. You can even place them in the Green bins with other yard waste.

The following is some info from their website:

Our goal is to help divert all naturally biodegradable waste from entering our landfills. This includes food waste, yard waste, paper waste and pet waste. If any of these items are placed in an anaerobic (air-locked) landfill, their natural ability to biodegrade can be severely diminished.

The best solution for disposal of pet waste has always been to separate it from the bag or paper and flush it down the toilet. Using BioBags extends your options. The waste and the bag can be thrown in your backyard compost, where both items can decompose naturally; the waste and bag can be buried, where micro-organisms will quickly eat both; the waste and bag can be set at curbside with other yard waste where communities collect biodegradable waste for composting. Please check with your community for disposal options.

This is what biodegradable waste separation is all about. We thank you for being concerned, responsible pet owners.

Reiki for Animals

2007-05-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

We are extremely excited to announce our partnership with long time friend Alison Acaster and her company:

Beaming Hands
Reiki and a Smile

WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki is an ancient hands-on healing method that treats the whole person - body, emotions, mind and spirit - creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing.

HOW DOES REIKI WORK?
Reiki is a simple treatment, consisting of the calm, concentrated laying on of hands, with the practitioner focusing on healing and giving energy to specific areas of the receiver's body.

CAN ANIMALS BENEFIT?
Reiki works effectively on all living things.

ARE THERE ANY HEALTH BENEFITS?
Alison's cat Lucy has suffered from Feline Asthma her whole life. She spent 9 years having attacks and getting monthly steroid shots. Since first receiving Reiki in 2006 Lucy has not had any asthma attacks and has not taken ANY medicine since January 2007.

Rev. Alison E Acaster is an ordained minister and a fully insured member of the International Association of Reiki Professionals.

CONTACT US IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BOOKING A SESSION FOR YOUR POOCH OR FELINE.

Videos Of Our Clients Killed The Radio Star

2007-05-07T23:57:00.000-07:00

Only in Los Angeles...

2007-04-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

The last 4 celebrities I've seen while out walking dogs:

1. Jason Bateman
2. Michael Rapaport
3. Jerry Springer
4. Ryan Seacrest

Be Your Own Pet Psychic at The Bohdi Tree

2007-04-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

Become your own Pet "Psychic". Learn how to use "Pet Oracle" fortune telling cards.

Check out this intriguing pet event happening this Friday (4/27) at the Bodhi Tree Bookstore in West Hollywood.

DR. ANYES VAN VOLKENBURGH, DVM

*discussing & signing*

"THE PET ORACLE CARDS: Be Your Own Pet Psychic"

Bring your pets!

Friday, April 27, 7:30pm
Bodhi Tree Bookstore
www.dranyes.com

The "Pet Oracle Cards" were created with the intention of helping you develop a more intuitive and more healing connection with your pets, and ultimately all animals. They are a tool, which along with your inner guidance will lead you to personalized, specific and accurate answers to questions about anything related to your pet, including health, behavior and emotions. It is as though your pet will speak to you through the cards! Dr. Van Volkenburgh is a veterinarian and internationally acclaimed animal welfare advocate who has unique insight into physical ailments on the conscious and spiritual level.

Your pets, on a leash, are welcome.

AOL Living Style Blog calls us "Hip and Happening in Los Angeles"

2007-04-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

We couldn't believe it either - so here is the link to see for yourselves.

FREE Recycling Services in Los Angeles

2007-04-16T23:27:00.000-07:00

The City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation is presently registering multifamily residential buildings (five units or more) for a FREE RECYCLING PROGRAM that will begin in April 2007. Multifamily residential properties participating in the program will receive the following:

* FREE Recycling service once a week
* FREE Blue bins for storage of recyclables
* FREE Educational information about accepted materials

To sign up for the program and to get more information on other recycling services, just click on the icon below.

We believe strongly in doing our part to protect and enrich the environment. Please consider joining this important program. Recycling is a simple tangible action we can take to help preserve the balance of the Earth for future generations.

Year of the Dog

2007-04-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

Below is the trailer for the new movie "Year of the Dog". Directed by Mike White, it stars Molly Shannon, Laura Dern, Regina King and Peter Sarsgaard.

We are definitely going to check it out and will let you know what we think.

See it for yourself - check out local showtimes HERE.

March Madness

2007-04-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

To get over our brutal loss in the NCAA pool, let's focus on all the awesome new friends we made this March.

What a bunch of hams!

Janet

Lulu

Murray

Chifa

Ella

Tootsie

Zorro

Casey

Oliver

Andrew

Truman

Anderson Cooper 360 TONIGHT! Latest information on Pet Food Recall.

2007-04-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

Want the most up to date information on the nationwide Pet Food Recall?

To the rescue is Anderson Cooper. On CNN tonight, Anderson Cooper 360 will focus on:

What's killing our pets - and who's responsible? Should our food supply be the next concern? "

Tuesday April 3 - 10 PM Eastern, 7 PM Pacific.

Click on the picture of AC find out more...

The Real Dawg Pound: Move Over Randy Jackson

2007-03-27T00:24:00.000-07:00

More entertaining than Lakisha Jones....
Sexier than Haley Scarnato....
Returning Melinda Doolittle to the back-up line....
and with better hair than Sanjaya Malakar....

IT'S YOUR POOCHES!

The Zen Pooch is now on YouTube. We have our very own page where you can watch your pooch at play.

Click icon for pooches.

The short video clips we post are great way to join in the excitement of your pooch's experience with us. There is also no better comfort for those traveling than the sight and sound of your best friend. Our YouTube page allows you check in with us from anywhere in the world and makes it simple to share the videos with family & friends.

FDA Pet Food Recall - May Cause Kidney Failure

2007-03-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

Clients & Friends -

I was watching the news the other evening when they reported on a nation-wide pet food recall. I then went to the NBC website where I found the following article. At the end of it there is a link to the FDA press release with more specific information.

Please let me know if you have any questions about the recall and I will do my best to help.

Scott

Company Recalls 60 Million Cans Of Pet Food

About 10 Animals Have Died

A major manufacturer of dog and cat food is recalling 60 million containers of wet food.

Menu Foods said it has received reports of dogs and cats suffering kidney failure after eating the food. About 10 animals died.

Menu Foods supplies store brands to Wal-Mart, Safeway, Kroger, PetSmart and other retailers. The recall covers its "cuts and gravy-style" food sold between early December and March. The food comes in cans and small foil pouches. It consists of chunks of meat in gravy.

The company said it is not sure what happened and product testing hasn't revealed a link that would explain the illnesses and deaths.

NBC affiliate KNBC obtained the following list of wet foods being taken off shelves due to the recall:

Sophisticat Authority Award Great Choice Iams Eukanuba Nutro Science Diet Mighty Dog Mixables

http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/pg03_07.html

For more information, contact Menu Foods at 1-866-463-6738.

Spring Has Sprung

2007-03-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

As we welcome spring, let us look at all the wonderful faces that made winter so bearable. (OK...so winter in LA isn't really that bad)

Click on the image below to see our slideshow.

ZEN POOCHES ROCK!

Let the People Speak

2007-03-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

“One difference between Scott and other walkers is that he makes time upfront to take detailed notes on the dog’s behaviors and habits. Therefore, he is highly aware of any issues that could possibly arise. I always feel my dogs are safe, my home is safe, and that my girls are happy after having been with him. Scott is one of the most professional, trustworthy and dependable people I know. I believe any pet owner who is obsessed about their animals as I am, will be quite pleased with The Zen Pooch.”
- Jami R., Client & Rescue Volunteer

“The Zen Pooch does a fabulous job looking after our two basset hounds when we travel. Scott has proven to be reliable and trustworthy. I especially appreciate his frequent updates and photo texts. Little touches – like a thank you note complete with our own dog’s picture – are indicative of the warm, personal treatment we’ve gotten from The Zen Pooch.”
- Greg L., Client

“I have known Scott for 5 years, both personally and professionally. Scott is a very caring individual and I have witnessed his passion for animals first hand. The unique services offered by The Zen Pooch are a perfect fit for my clientele. I look forward to proudly recommending Scott and his company.”
- Jackie K, Beverly Hills Real Estate Agent

** Reference details given to prospective clients

Aaaaaaaand.....ACTION!

2007-03-07T11:23:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest enjoyments of our job is filling clients in-boxes with photos and video clips of their pets at play.

That way they can:

- share in the excitement of a day at the park

- witness the simple joy of their pet's neighborhood romp

- ease the separation anxiety when out of town

- and for those prone to excessive worry, confirm that their pet is still alive : )

To see what you can expect as a Zen Pooch client, here are some examples:

Video clips and photos can be sent to your email, cell phone or PDA and will be posted for private viewing on our YouTube page.

For the Love of Pooches

2007-03-05T20:18:00.000-08:00

On a beautiful Saturday (2/17) in West Hollywood, we joined up with 2 local rescue groups to host a free pet safety and adoption event for the community. There were many loving dogs, cats and even rabbits who are now one step closer to finding their forever homes. We also had a top-rate First-Aid presentation focusing on basic safety techniques every owner should know. Thank you to everyone who came out and all who contributed to a truly wonderful afternoon. Here are some pics from the event:

West Hollywood Park

Rescue pooch mugging for the camera.

Our safety & first-aid presentation was given by the wonderful Denise Fleck of Sunny Dog Ink

Some of the incredible volunteers from Molly's Mutts & Meows. Their selfless work is inspiring. Please consider fostering a rescue.

Checking out the pups!

Some delicious home-baked goodies 'for the humans' - yummy.

The one and only Molly

Our event in progress - only in WeHo!

Staying hydrated.

The fine folks from Best Friends Animal Society

This is Duncan. He's the coolest. You can adopt him HERE.

SAY IT WITH SAFETY

2007-02-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

Celebrate Valentine's by doing something for the one you REALLY love!

FREE FREE FREE

Pet First-Aid & Safety Presentation

Topics covered will include: Rescue Breathing & CPR, Approaching Injured Animals, First Aid Kits

DATE: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 - 1:00 PM

LOCATION: WEST HOLLYWOOD PARK (647 San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, 90069)

There will also be a Pet Adoption Fair sponsored by Molly's Mutts & Meows and Best Friends Animal Society.

* Gourmet Doggie Treats * Valentine's Surprises * Face Painting for Kids

The safety presentation is provided by Denise Fleck of Sunny-Dog Ink.

Zen Pooch 2.0

2007-01-16T11:47:00.001-08:00

Our high tech services include:

Text messages to confirm start or end of service

Email clients photos of their pets at play

Face to Pooch check-ins via Web Camera
For added comfort when away from home!

Personalized Video of your pet's experience
Annual yearbook DVD
We create MySpace accounts for pets - Great way to connect with other local pet lovers!

Basic Services

2007-01-16T11:46:00.001-08:00

Road to Nirvana Walk
30 min or 1 hour walk around your neighborhood - tailored to dog’s energy level

Perfect for a bathroom break!

Downward Dog Park
1 - 2 hours of social play and exercise at one of LA’s beautiful off-leash dog parks

Sun Salutation Canyon Hike
9 AM hike in Runyon Canyon

Great way to welcome the day!

Funky Buddha Day Care
Either 3 or 6 hours of love, fun and personal attention - Includes trip to Dog Park

Overnights

2007-01-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

Supreme Bliss
Our unique ultimate care service

Includes overnight stay in your home, daily trip to dog park, multiple walks, lots of 1-on-1 attention and feeding

Plus, receive check-in photos via email or text

Night of Enlightenment
For Pets requiring less attention

Includes overnight stay in your home, feeding, and morning & evening walk.

We take the stress out of traveling!

The Karma Initiative

2007-01-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

(a.k.a. our generous referral programs)

Refer a new client and for every service they purchase you receive a $5 credit on your next invoice

Sign up with a neighbor and both receive $5 off on all concurrent services

Zen of Safety

2007-01-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

Professionally Insured and Bonded (policies available)
Provided by Century Insurance Group and Travelers

Member of Pet Sitters International
Currently enrolled in their prestigious Accreditation program

Trained by American Red Cross of Santa Monica in Pet CPR/First Aid (certificate available)
All staff carry medical emergency kits

No more than 4 dogs per trip to park or canyon hike to ensure maximum attention and supervision
Walkers do NOT use cell phones while driving clients
Detailed Pooch and Guardian profiles completed

The Green Pooch

2007-01-16T11:36:00.001-08:00

The Zen Pooch is fully committed to the care and protection of our planet.

All printing is done on recycled paper and soy-based inks are used when possible.

We use only biodegradable waste bags and all-natural cleaning products.

All treats and food provided are 100% natural and/or organic.

We recycle and will provide recycling for clients where such services are unavailable.

Certified Animal Massage

2007-01-16T00:48:00.000-08:00

Provided by The Pooch Masseuse
Licensed - Northwest School of Animal Massage, WA

Treatments performed in the comfort of your own home or office.

- Benefits of Treatment -
decreases pain, improves immune system, promotes flexibility

Massage is approx. 45 minutes and can include:
brushing, light stretching, heated towel wrap

We use aromatic oils and provide gourmet treats.

Incorporate into day care and overnight packages for maximum convenience!