Bindi Irwin Wildlife Series- Review and Contest

June 24, 2011 by 96 Comments
G’day mate!  (LOL)
There is a great new book series out there.  I’m sure you all know the tragic story of Steve Erwin, “The Crocodile Hunter”.  If not please feel free to take a quick look: his story.  Ok now that you are all back, his daughter is Bindi Irwin.  She wants to, “…help endangered wildlife just like dad did.”  She is trying very hard to make a difference, through education.  Bindi has started to release her own book line, Bindi Wildlife Adventures.  Her first book, Trouble at the zoo  did a nice job of setting the tone for the series.  This book is sweet- is a great book for kids between the grades of one through four.  It involves a particular hairy event during the celebration of Bindi‘s birthday party at the Australian zoo.  Lots of zany stuff happens, like karaoke, animal rides, dancing- there is even some mystery and a macaw.  That’s right a macaw!  This critter was Kamikaze’s favorite, too.  She was able to read and understand what was going on in the story with a little help.  A bit of background on Kamikaze- She is an average student in first grade, but she is great at math while struggling with reading- so books like this that she really enjoys will help motivate her to practice.  She really liked this book and will probably follow the series.  Which is great considering this is teaching her about animals, science, activism, and reading.  The only downside is…we have to wait for the next books to come out! LOL  I am just happy she is learning the excitement that is reading.  Her momma loves to read, and I hope she will, too!  We are also animal activists in this house, so reading about helping animals, and learning about animals is familiar and fun territory for her.
One of you will win a copy of a Bindi book!  
If you would like to win, here is how to enter-
Mandatory entry
You must be a public follower on Google Friend Connect.
Leave me your email so I can contact you if you win.  In  your comment, please.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

– Register at Totally Bindi for her updates

– Like Totally Bindi on Facebook for an extra entry- this is NOT sponsored by Facebook in any way, nor is this a mandatory entry

– Follow  Totally Bindi on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway
#Win Bindi Irwin Wildlife Series- Review and Contest http://t.co/BM8hH1t @HaveSippy @TotallyBindi

-“Like” me on Facebook
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-Subscribe to Have Sippy Will Travel by email, and confirm subscription  or via RSS
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– Follow me on Twitter ( or you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
#Win Bindi Irwin Wildlife Series- Review and Contest http://t.co/BM8hH1t @HaveSippy @TotallyBindi
*can be done daily

Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries

– Email a friend about this contest, with a CC to me at  kangabunnie@gmail.com
(you get an extra entry if they enter, too!)

 -Add my button to your blog, and leave me the link so I can find it

– Follow me on “Networked Blogs”

– blog about this giveaway, and link back to this contest (leave me the URL in comment, please)

-Add me to your blogroll, with a link back to me

– Vote for me on “We’re On The Fence!”  (Just Click the Button to the left that says “We’re On the Fence” until it confirms you voted for your’s truly!)   *Can be done daily

– enter another one of my giveaways

– comment on a non-giveaway post

– Like this post on Facebook, Stumble it, or hit G+1 button  (each is worth one entry)

OOO, so many ways to win! Good luck!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  Open to US shipping addresses only.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and mailing prize. Ends July 17, 2011.

Filed Under: animals, book review, giveaway, kids, review

Dog Collar Charms- Part 1 (again!)

June 15, 2011 by 7 Comments

We just had the chance to try out a fun new site to make your own doggy bling, Dog Collar Charms.  On this site, you can create your own photo charm for your pet. 
“Dog collar charms are one of the fastest growing trends for pups around the world. These cute accessories provide a fun and stylish way to customize your dog’s collar with a special charm designed by you. Simply upload a picture to our website and pick one of nine different charm colors. That’s it! The charm will arrive in the mail just 3 to 5 days later!”
We put one of Little Man when he was a baby sitting next to Chaac.  I can’t wait to see what it looks like!
We were also able to make a few extra to hand out at the local dog park my husband chose a funny picture that any dog lover will be amused by.
Check out my moment if you would like to see the whole thing!

http://my.thismoment.com/moment/view/73601/dog-collar-charms

Disclosure: This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias.  

Filed Under: animals, review

Max, the Leader Dog buddy- is at it again!

June 11, 2011 by 4 Comments

You guys remember the Leader Dog advocate, Max?  He is at it again, trying to raise awareness and get some help for his cause- Leader Dogs!


“Look At Me Now”, Max’s first song release, is inspired by the award winning childrens’ book “Dogs Work Too! From Max’s Point of View,” a story about Leader Dogs for the Blind. As you listen to the song you discover, like Max’s books, the vocals are sung from a dog’s prospective. “Look At Me Now,” shares that journey of a young puppy learning to become a leader for his owner.

Child Actor John Coleman Demers, age 10, from the multi award winning and three time Emmy® nominated The Rusty Bucket Kids television show was invited to perform the vocals for Max’s first song. “John Coleman’s vocals match as if he were that young puppy learning how to lead. Also, John Coleman’s vocals are very similar to what you may hear from members of the Vienna Boys’ Choir”, says co-author/publisher Anthony M.T. Majewski. “When you listen to the words of the song, hear the innocence in John Coleman’s voice, it is so heartfelt, and can often in a good way bring a tear to your eye,” says Majewski, “Especially if you have raised a pet, know someone who is blind, or just enjoy music.”

“Look At Me Now” is now available as a pre-release limited edition numbered CD set. It will be autographed by John Coleman Demers and Paw-o-graphed by Max. Also the set will include the sheet music with lyric’s autographed by composer Craig Brandwynne. Those that pre-order will also be the first to receive a digital copy of the song prior to it arriving in the mail. Official Release of “Look At Me Now” song is schedule for early July. The Rusty Bucket Band is a part of The Rusty Bucket Kids TV Show, and will also perform the song at the 32nd annual Festival for the Eno.

Authors, the record label, Center Sound Records, and the recording artist John Coleman Demers, have agreed that a portion of the proceeds from the sales of “Read With Max” original music as well the “Look At Me Now” song will be donated to Leader Dogs for the Blind.

To listen to song or for more information about licensing and/or distribution of “Look At Me Now” or Max’s original music you can contact Center Sound Records at http://www.centersoundrecords.com

For more information about Max, his books, or music visit http://www.readwithmax.com

For more information about The Rusty Bucket Kids, visit http://www.therustybucketkids.com

For more information about Leader Dogs for the Blind, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.firstgiving.com/leaderdogs. 

Filed Under: animals

Old Mother Hubbard

June 8, 2011 by 9 Comments

Old Mother Hubbard, to make up for starving her dog in the nursery rhyme, I suppose- has begun making dog treats!  They started baking about 80 years ago and has been baking since in Gloucester, MA.  They started by making snacks for fishermen but quickly found another hard working hungry critter, the dog.  Old Mother Hubbard uses all natural wholesome ingredients including: chicken, cheddar cheese, apples, carrots, sweet potatoes and oatmeal.  Sounds good enough to eat.  The real test comes with the taste test.  First we try Skin & Coat, this snack helps your dog have healthy skin and fur, by providing 1.75% of Omega 6 and 0.5% of Omega 3 fatty acids.  Chaac absolutely loved them.  He did that lovely drool thing- what, that’s not enticing?  So you know he liked them extra!   Next up we were going to do some tricks so we tried Soft & Chewy Bitz Liver Recipe.  What I liked about these were you can fit a pretty good amount of them in your pocket.  These are perfect for teaching that old dog new tricks or keeping that young canine in line.  Plus- what dog doesn’t deserve a good treat now and then?  They do put up with us annoying humans, after all, LOL.  If it is also good for them- why not?

Overall both Chaac and I liked these treats, although I will be honest I- did not taste them.

You can also follow Old Mother Hubbard on Facebook and Twitter  🙂

Filed Under: animals, review

Dog Collar Charms- Part 2 (a day at the dogpark!)

June 5, 2011 by 7 Comments

We had a great time visiting local dog parks and handing out the cute dog charms from Dog Collar Charms.  (For those of you who missed my first review- you can make your own custom dog collar charm for your fuzzy buddy, by uploading a photo, choosing a color, and simply attaching it to your pup’s collar! Easy Breezy!)
The other doggie parents at the dog park really liked it- and it was fun to hand out info to everyone.  Where better to meet dog-people then at the dog park, right? 

It was so easy to make, and the dogs looked fab in their new dog collar tags!  As you can see, the picture quality is pretty good, too!  It’s one inch by one inch.  It’s a unique, fun way to put an adorable touch on your doggie’s ensemble.  For us- it is also reassuring- we have a big dog.  He is microchipped, collared, has on his tags, etc and all, but I always worry that he will get loose and no one will go near him because they will be scared.  This pic of him with our baby shows what a gentle giant he is!

These are really cute- if you have a hard to shop for person in your life- like we do!- who happen to be animal people- I can highly recommend these.  They would love them!   We will be buying at least 2 for the holidays- my aunt and girlfriend would love them- their pets are their whole world! 
Love my Chaac!  🙂

Disclosure: This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias.  All opinions are my own, yours may differ.  

Filed Under: animals, review

Easter

April 20, 2011 by 3 Comments

If you plan on getting a pet rabbit for Easter- check out this post. 
I can’t tell you how many rabbits get turned in because people don’t know this stuff!  As someone who does rabbit and animal rescue, I hope you like what you read!  And don’t forget- ADOPTION is always a good pet option.  Petfinder.com is a great place to find a great pet! 

Filed Under: animals, holidays

AFRICAN CATS

April 15, 2011 by 1 Comment
NARRATED BY SAMUEL L. JACKSON
SEE “AFRICAN CATS,” SAVE THE SAVANNA
“AFRICAN CATS” POSTS STRONG ADVANCE SALES
IN SUPPORT OF AFRICAN WILDLIFE FOUNDATION INITIATIVE
With more than $1.7 Million in Advance Sales, Disneynature Already Set to
Save More Than 9,500 Acres… and Still Counting
“African Cats” Motion Picture Opens on Earth Day, April 22, 2011
BURBANK, Calif. (April 11, 2011) – “African Cats” is still more than two weeks from opening on Earth Day, but moviegoers have already bought $1.7 million in tickets to see the movie during its opening week (April 22-28) and save the African savanna in the process. Thanks to the “See ‘African Cats,’ Save the Savanna” initiative, Disneynature’s pledge to make a contribution in honor of everyone who sees the film opening week already translates to more than 9,500 acres of land within Kenya’s Amboseli Wildlife Corridor—and that number continues to rise.
“We are very impressed with the passion people are showing for ‘African Cats’—advance ticket sales for this film have surpassed both ‘Earth’ and ‘Oceans’ at this stage of the game, which shows how excited moviegoers are for both the movie and the ‘Save the Savanna’ initiative,” said Alan Bergman, president, The Walt Disney Studios. “The Amboseli Corridor is an essential passage utilized by so many animals in the African savanna. The advance ticket sales so far will allow Disneynature with African Wildlife Foundation’s assistance to conserve more than 9,500 acres of this passage—which equates to 19 Disney’s Animal Kingdoms, or nearly two-thirds the size of Manhattan—and we still have two weeks till opening day.”
“The ‘See “African Cats,” Save the Savanna’ program transforms the movie going experience into tangible on-the-ground conservation action. The commitment of Disneynature combined with the passion of moviegoers will raise critical funds to conserve the land that the magnificent species featured in ‘African Cats’ call home,” said Dr. Patrick Bergin, CEO, African Wildlife Foundation. “Through this amazing collaboration, we celebrate our 50th Anniversary together with Disneynature and all the people who are helping establish the Amboseli Wildlife Corridor.”

“See ‘African Cats,’ Save the Savanna” continues Disneynature’s conservation efforts, which began with its first release, “Earth” (2009), for which three million trees were planted in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. The program in support of “Oceans” (2010) helped establish 40,000 acres of marine protected areas in The Bahamas, which contain miles of vital coral reef.

“SEE ‘AFRICAN CATS,’ SAVE THE SAVANNA”
During the film’s opening week (April 22-28), a portion of the proceeds from that week’s ticket sales will be donated to the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund to ensure the future of lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, giraffes and a host of other animals in the vibrant African savanna. The AWF will be working to protect the Amboseli Wildlife Corridor, a passage between the Amboseli, Tsavo West and Chyulu Hills National Parks that is frequently used by a variety of wildlife.

The film, which will be released in theaters worldwide, opens in North America on April 22, 2011. Tickets for groups of 20 or more are already available in the United States by calling 1-888-DISNEY6. Tickets are also available online at www.disney.com/africancats.

There are also a number of innovative online efforts underway that allow moviegoers to pledge their commitment to the film and in doing so, support the cause.

·         Like Disneynature on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Disneynature
·         Pledge to see “African Cats” on Eventful: http://eventful.com/africancats
·         Join the “African Cats” grassroots community and donate to the African Wildlife Foundation on Causes: http://www.causes.com/africancats

·         Buy tickets through Disney Tickets Together: http://apps.facebook.com/ticketstogether/

Filed Under: animals, disney, kids

Max, the Wonder-Dog!

April 15, 2011 by 12 Comments
Max’s Word of the Day is 18. “OF”
 
It’ s not every day we get to work with a real-life hero!  Max, an advocate for  leader-dogs who spend their furry lives helping blind or visually impaired people live normal lives, is on a blog tour to raise money and awareness for his cause!  His goal is to raise $40,000, be we all know he will surpass that.
Leader Dogs for the blind has trained over 13,500 dogs and people from 39 countries to use a leader dog. 
Max is an award winning childrens book author who is dedicated to helping children manage similar experiences in their lives. Maximus, a.k.a “Max,” is an English Labrador who shares stories about his real life experiences from his point of view so children can relate too. You can purchase Max’s newest books, ask him questions, enter his contests, ask him for his paw-o-graph, shop, or share your own adventures at this website! 
Max’s newly realeased book, “Dogs Work Too! From Max’s Point of View” once again follows the “adventures”of six-year old yellow English Labrador Retriever, Max, educating adults and children about how working dogs at Leader Dogs for the Blind “have everyday responsibilities, just like humans,” Majewski says.  Max also has published a “Color With Max Activity and Coloring Book” sharing more adventures and activities for children.  
You can also help out by voting for Max on The Telly Awards and casting a “THUMBS UP” vote. The competition starts on March 28th, 2011 and lasts for four weeks.  (You can vote daily!) 

“We excited to share our video as well the story about Leader Dogs for the Blind. We created the video so children and adults understand the true value of sight and sound. Your vote supports of our efforts but especially the efforts of staff members, volunteers, parents, teachers, family and friends who often go unrecognized. Give us a “Thumbs Up” vote as a symbol of support to in an effort to help those that who are visually impaired or Blind,” Majewski adds.

Since I do most of the posts around here, I thought I  would give my dog, Chaac the Wonder-Dog, a chance to interview Max.  He can flex his reporter-muscles!  
Chaac
Max, on the cover of his new book! 
(Chaac) Q: what’s it like to be a working dog?

(Max) A- Chaac, Let me tell you it is the most rewarding thing a story telling dog can do in the world.  I am able to share the importance of reading, writing, and every day educational lessons to bring children and parents together in participation, as well the important value of caring and giving those in our community whom may be in need though promoting charitable fundraising efforts.  Oh lets not forget the pup-a-razzi and photo shoots, the car rides to events, and the numerous petting that children and parents give me.  Its the life! 
Q: Do you get paid holidays?
Yes, because some of the times I have to travel in parades, and attend library function.  My pay usually is dog treats and car rides, so I don’t mind. 
Q: Are you in a union?
Well, I don’t work for the government like some of my police and fire dog buddies.  I know there in a Union.   I really haven’t been asked to join one. 
Q: What is your favorite treat?
A. Peanut Butter Biscuit.   But I have to watch out for those other dogs who are allergic.  I make sure to tell them I eating one to protect their health. 
Q. Well, how PC of you!  Are you a dog food brand ambassador?
A. That is a great question.  At this time we have not been officially asked.  I do have a few brands I would be happy to represent, but at this time I am just waiting.  Maybe I should hire you to be my agent! 
Q Maybe you should!  I work cheap  🙂  Where do you like to shop for your chew toys?
A. Silly the Pet Store!
Q: Max- did you not get your 22 hours of sleep today?  Haha!  So- did you do much research on your vet before deciding?
A. Of course I did!  See I want to live long and be healthy so I made sure I received referrals, I took a tour of the facility and checked on their costs.  I also reviewed each doctors credentials.  My favorite doctor I like to visit is Dr. Julie because she often whispers in my ear and tells me how big a fan she is of my books.  I actually have a picture of her in my coloring Activity book!
Q: That’s cool.  My vet got rid of my worms when I was adopted- good guy!  Does your person insist on making you take showers, too?  GROSS!
A. Of course silly!  Don’t you?   I often take baths because I love swimming.  Every time I jump into a pond or lake I take a bath.  Also after long walks and car rides where I get hot and sticky.  Oh, my brother tends to drool on me from time to time to you can also count those unexpected baths. 
Q  How do you feel about current leash laws in your state?
A. Interesting Question!  I actually like the law in Michigan. Now my reason is that I love walks and just like children owners or parents all have different ways of raising.   I have found a few times having to protect myself because an unruly dog wanted to come over and get my autograph.  I prefer those well behaved dogs and owners who first ask over someone trying to tackle me.  So, I am on a leash at all times except swimming or playing in my yard or at a dog park where its legal to be off the leash.
Q. Does your human have to clean up after you as well?  (HAHAHA, and they think they own US!)
A. Actually I am very good about return my toys to my toy area. The only time I require a good clean up afterwards is when it is raining and I bring in mud from outside.  Of course this is not my fault, but I feel bad because my father usually has to get the carpet cleaner out.  
Q. Hey, Max, I think you missed my point on that one!  LOL.  Does your human get mad at you when you FINALLY get the squeekee out of the fuzzy toys?  (Hello!  That’s what I want it for!)
A. Actually I take all the fuzzy and the squeekee out and try to hide it before my parents remove it.  I just don’t understand why I cannot chew it.  Oh well.  I usually chew to the point there is no more squeeking sound. Thats when they take it away from me.
Q.  Humans.  They never get it!  Speaking of humans- those little humans- do they pull your tail, too?  Mine pokes my eye sometimes when giving me treats…mmmmm, treats…..
Oh great question.  See my parents are very good at explaining at my events how to properly pet me.  NO tapping on the top of the head. That’s get annoying, just a nice rubbing on my shoulders and back.  If it does happen I take a stare back at the child and shrug my shoulder then look at my parents.  That usually is my sign to them to ask the child to stop.
Q.  Have you figured out how to get the peanut butter out of the ball yet?  (And can you tell me?)
Yes, I have.  You have to Lick counter clock wise!  Boy I enjoy when I get the ball with peanut butter.  UMMMMMM!
Max- Wow!  Those were great questions.  Thanks for the interview.  I hope you learned a lot about me.  Thank you again for hosting the blog book tour for me. 
Hugs and Licks:

Max!

Filed Under: animals, kids