Tails from Creature Comforts & Pawsitively Marblehead

Please find us on Facebook!

2011-12-12T10:31:00.001-05:00

You may see that we haven't been posting on our blog lately...please find us on Facebook for up to date happenings! Bow wow!

Dorito's "Dog Collar" Commercial

2010-02-08T17:59:00.002-05:00

Just in case you missed this commercial during the Super Bowl, you've got to check it out. I think it serves the guy right, what a turd!

Come Celebrate "Puppy Love"!

2010-02-08T14:46:00.004-05:00

No one gives unconditional love like your dog, so celebrate Valentine's Day early by making them your special date on Thursday, February 11 from 5:30- 7:30 PM at our new store on 9 Pleasant Street.

We'll have special treats and beverages for everyone, and the night will culminate with the First Annual Best Kiss Contest. If you have a smoochy pooch, be ready to show off your affection by puckering up, and the longest, sloppiest "buddy-to-owner" kiss will win a fabulous prize basket.

An addition to the evening is a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce at 5:00 PM. Come down a bit early if you can to join in the commeration of our new store and bring your smile!

"Latin Labrador" video

2010-01-28T15:41:00.003-05:00

This is absolutely crazy, it's like Dancing With The Stars meets the dogs. You have to check out this dog dancing merengue with her human. Cha! Cha! Cha! (hint: The longer the video goes, the funnier it gets!) Turn up the volume, click here and be ready for a laugh!

Teleconference with Cheryl Richardson and Dr. Mark Hanks

2010-01-27T11:41:00.003-05:00

I missed participating in this call live, but after hearing it last night I knew I had to share it with all of you. One of my favorite authors, Cheryl Richardson, holds a monthly telegathering and on Monday hosted Dr. Mark Hanks, owner of Kindred Spirits Veterinary Clinic. They discuss the amazing connection between humans and their animal friends, the energetic relationship we have with our pets, the tough choice to put a pet to rest and the most honoring way to do so, and much more.

Click here for a link to hear it for yourself.

A Dog's New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-30T12:36:00.001-05:00

I will stop trying to find the few remaining clean pieces of carpet in the house when I am about to throw up.

I will not roll on dead seagulls, fish, crabs, etc.

I will not eat other animals' poop.

I will not lick my human's face after eating animal poop.

I will not eat my own vomit.

I will not eat "kitty box crunchies".

I will not eat any more socks and then re-deposit them in the backyard after processing.

I will not chew my human's toothbrush and not tell them.

I will not chew crayons or pens, especially not the red ones, or my people will think I am hemorrhaging.

When in the car, I will not insist on having the window rolled down when it's raining outside.

I will not drop soggy tennis balls in the underwear of someone who is sitting on the toilet.

I will not bark each time I hear a door bell on TV.

I will not walk under the big dog when he is peeing.

I will not steal Mom's underwear and dance all over the back yard with it.

I will not play tug-o'-war with Dad's underwear when he's on the toilet.

The sofa is not a face towel. Neither are Mom & Dad's laps.

My head does not belong in the refrigerator.

I will not bite the officer's hand when he reaches in for Mom's driver's license and car registration.

I do not need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm lying under the coffee table.

I will not roll my toys behind the fridge or under the couch.

The garbage collector is NOT stealing our stuff.

I must shake the rainwater out of my fur BEFORE entering the house.

Let Us Help You Finish Off Your Gift List!

2009-12-23T14:09:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a storm this weekend, huh? It sure put me behind on my shopping, so with that in mind we are going to do our best make your shopping for the pets and pet lovers in your lives easier!

FREE DELIVERY! Have you already seen the gifts you want and haven't made it down to pick them up yet? Or, do you need some suggestions from our expert elves? Give us a call at (781) 639-0449. We'll save you the trip and deliver the perfect gifts right to your door. And our gift certificates are always a great choice.

EXTENDED HOURS TODAY AND TOMORROW! Tonight (Wednesday), both stores will be open until 7:00 PM. Tomorrow, 63 Atlantic Ave. will be open from 7:30 AM until 5:00 PM, and 9 Pleasant St. will be open from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Skip the mall frenzy and finish off your list in town.

On behalf of all of our staff, camp counselors and walkers, best wishes for a furry Christmas to all, and to all a good night! And, of course, a happy & healthy 2010.

Woof-Woof!

Brooks

The Day Before Christmas

2009-12-23T14:07:00.002-05:00

'Tis the day before Christmas,
And all through the house,
The puppies are squeaking an old rubber mouse.
The wreath which had merrily hung on the door,
Is scattered in pieces all over the floor.

The stockings that hung in a neat little row,
Now boast a hole in each of it's toes.
The tree was subjected to bright-eye whims,
And now, although splendid, it's missing some limbs.

I catch them and hold them,"Be good I insist!"
They lick me, then run off to see what they've missed.
And now as I watch them, the thought comes to me,
That theirs is the spirit that Christmas should be.

Should children and puppies yet show us the way,
And teach us the joy that should come with this day?
Could they bring the messege that's written above,
And tell us that most of all, Christmas is love!

Santa WILL be in Marblehead Today!

2009-12-20T00:22:00.002-05:00

OK, I just got off the North Pole hotline with Mrs. Claus. Despite the snowstorm overnight, Santa and his elves will be visiting our good girl and boy pets for free photos at 63 Atlantic Avenue TODAY Sunday, December 20 from 11:00 - 1:00 pm. She said that nothing could keep him away, he's been challenged by worse weather than this before.

So plan to shovel out in time to stop by to say hello and whisper your gift list to Santa, and we'll appreciate it if you could make a donation to support our pals at the Marblehead Animal Shelter too.

A Special Christmas Carol

2009-12-20T00:20:00.001-05:00

Sing this one on Christmas eve to the tune of "Winter Wonderland"!

Dog tags ring, are you listening'?
In the lane, snow is glistenin'.
It's yellow, NOT white I've been there tonight,
Marking up my winter wonderland.

Smell that tree? That's my fragrance.
It's a sign for wandering vagrants;
Avoid where I pee, it's MY pro-per-ty!
Marked up as my winter wonderland.

In the meadow dad will build a snowman,
following the classical design.
Then I'll lift my leg and let it go Man,
So all the world will know that it's
mine-mine-mine!

Straight from me to the fence post,
flows my natural incense boast;
Stay off my TURF, this small piece of earth,
I marked it as my winter wonderland.

Santa Photos and Christmas Walk Follow-up

2009-12-06T14:07:00.006-05:00

We had a super kick off to the holiday season both of Pawsitively Marblehead's locations during the Marblehead Christmas Walk this weekend! Oh my goodness, what a great time our furry friends had with the jolly old guy this afternoon; adorable cats and dogs, dressed in their finest holiday attire came to have their picture taken with Santa, and were very generous in their donations to our friends at Friends of Marblehead's Abandoned Animals. Check out our slideshow and see if you recognize anyone special...

Marblehead Christmas Walk

2009-12-06T13:51:00.007-05:00

We are looking forward to another great holiday season at both of Pawsitively Marblehead's locations. Along with other Marblehead businesses, we are participating in the Marblehead Christmas Walk this weekend with fun events all over town.

Santa and his elves will be visiting our good girl and boy pets on TWO weekends this year - they all must have been VERY good, because he has been watching! The jolly old guy will be at our store for free photos on 63 Atlantic Avenue Sunday, December 6and Sunday, December 20 from 11:00 - 1:00PM. Please stop by to say hello and whisper your gift list to Santa, and consider making a donation to support the great work done through Friends of Marblehead's Abandoned Animals. If you are kind enough to make a donation of $20 or more, you will also receive a gorgeous green "Marblehead Dog Park" bandana!

As an added treat this year, "Pet Photography by Corinna" will be at our store at 9 Pleasant Street on Sunday, December 13 from 11:00 - 1:00 pm. A $20 sitting fee includes a 5x7" instant professional print and will be done on first come first serve basis. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Marblehead and Northeast Animal Shelters. What a great gift!!!

We will have extended hours throughout the holiday season. Come on down and shop locally for all of the pets - and pet lovers - in your life!

Grand Opening this Friday!

2009-11-25T14:32:00.002-05:00

As wise Shoeless Joe Jackson told Kevin Costner's character Ray Kinsella in "Field of Dreams", "If you build it, they will come." So I've gone pedal to the metal and have built it, and can't wait for you all to come down for our Grand Opening on 9 Pleasant Street this Friday at 10:00 AM! It has been a whirlwind of fun and ordering new inventory and designing, oh my! I was tempted to include some pictures, but you'll just have to see it for yourself. We'll have both retail locations open through the end of the year, and many fun holiday activities are in the works at each store.

Especially during these upcoming days of reflecting on what we are thankful for, I am so grateful for all of your well wishes and encouragement for this expansion. Your continued support and friendship is truly special and why Ned and I are so passionate about our business.

All the best to you and your families (including the furry four legged ones) for a belly full of turkey and all the trimmings, and don't forget to save room for dessert.

BIG News!!!

2009-11-09T16:28:00.002-05:00

As of Friday, we took a giant leap to further expand our business. Our retail store, Pawsitively Marblehead, will be moving to Old Town at 9 Pleasant Street, the former location of Crossing Main! And if you've known me for at least a week, it shouldn't surprise you to know that we're on the fast track to open before Thanksgiving. Having a store in this part of town has always been a dream of mine and I am pinching myself to be sure it is actually happening. We'll have both retail locations open through the end of December, and at the beginning of the year (...insert drumroll please...) 63 Atlantic Avenue will be transformed into "Pawsitively Pampered" - self service dog wash and spa!

Yikes - I am so excited I can barely contain myself! The painters are starting on Monday at the new location and I am ordering new inventory in such a frenzy my head is spinning. I'll be sure to keep you up to date on all of the exciting details and upcoming events.

Trick or Treat Pictures

2009-11-05T17:36:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness, we had such a great time last week with all of our adorable trick or treaters - see for yourself!

TRICK...OR TREAT?

2009-10-21T13:58:00.002-04:00

Bring your doggies and kids down to Pawsitively Marblehead on Thursday, October 29 from 5:00 - 7:30 PM for some pre-Halloween fun. Tell all of your friends, we promise to have treats for all - but there may be tricks as well! Everyone is welcome to wear their Halloween appparel, and we have fun collars, costumes and scarves for your four legged friends at the store for the spooky night too. Boo!

Hot fun in the summertime

2009-08-17T18:32:00.004-04:00

Marblehead Dog Park Bandanas

2009-08-07T12:49:00.005-04:00

At Pawsitively Marblehead, we are selling stylish Dog Bandanas with the handsome Dog Park logo for $6.00 each and all proceeds will be going to the Marblehead Dog Park's fundraising efforts. Come in to get one and show your support of this wonderful undertaking! Miss Magser, one of our most special girls, was the first to purchase one this afternoon - doesn't she look smashing?

Marblehead Dog Park Fun Day

2009-08-07T12:42:00.005-04:00

Thanks to years of efforts of many who have donated time, money, expertise, services and goods, the dream of the Marblehead Dog Park is soon to be a reality. The Marblehead Park and Recreation Department has generously offered land to establish a dog park, located above Reynolds Playground, off Lime Street, past The Charter School, up on the left. There is a path that leads to the park, waiting to be fenced in.

Help celebrate and raise money to complete the dog park this Sunday, August 9, from 3-7 p.m. at the Marblehead Community Center, 10 Humphrey Street, Marblehead. There will be a sing-a-long for kids, as well as a Live Auction. Come join in the fun with food and music, face painting, dog freebies and local vendors (INCLUDING CREATURE COMFORTS & PAWSITIVELY MARBLEHEAD) throughout the afternoon.

There will also be a "Dog Costume Parade" - registration begins at 3 p.m. and the parade begins at 4 p.m. Prizes for various categories will be given, so dress your pooch in a costume to win, whether best dressed, cutest, silliest, funniest, most original or a beach/summer theme. Owners are encouraged to dress along with their dog in these categories or as a look-a-like! There will be contests with prizes throughout the event and a photographer will be on site. Please keep in mind that all dogs must be leashed so that all will be safe and happy.

"Bark in the Park" followup

2009-08-03T13:51:00.005-04:00

Had a fun day at the Swampscott Dog Park fundraiser, "Bark in the Park". Was fun to talk dog, met lots of new peeps, and sell some fun outdoor toys & stuff. Looking forward to the Marblehead Dog Park fundraiser next weekend. Here are pictures of our table and a pal I met yesterday before he tried on his new lifevest - such a cutie!

"Bark in the Park" BIG BLUE S.P.O.T (Swampscott Park for Off-leash Time)

2009-08-01T18:48:00.003-04:00

Leashed dogs and their families are invited to visit the future site of the Swampscott Park for Off-leash Time (SPOT) for "Bark in the Park" from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, August 2. SPOT is planned in the former location of Kids Cove at Phillips Park on Humphrey Street. Attendees are invited to take part in a fun-filled and informative day of pet-related events. Many area pet businesses (INCLUDING CREATURE COMFORTS & PAWSITIVELY MARBLEHEAD) will be on hand to offer advice and their products and services.

There will be pet-and child-friendly activities throughout the event, including an owner-pet look-a-like contest, silly pet tricks and a scavenger hunt. Attendees may also sample the latest in pet shampoos at the event's do-it-yourself dog washing station.

S.P.O.T stands for Swampscott Park for Off-leash Time. They are a community organization of Swampscott, MA residents who have come together to help create a year round, safe environment for dogs and their owners to socialize, exercise and contribute to the vibrancy of Swampscott's beaches and parks. The town's high school teams are known as the "Big Blue" and the town dog park as the "Big Blue SPOT".

"Pets on Summer Vacation 2009"

2009-06-25T12:43:00.002-04:00

There's a great section on Boston.com with summer vacation pictures - "Pets on Summer Vacation 2009". Check out the pics and send in some of your own!

Independence Day Special Playgroups

2009-06-24T16:31:00.001-04:00

Do you need to get your pooch out from under your feet while you are hosting a BBQ on the 4th? Planning to get out for the day to enjoy the beach or Marblehead Festival of Arts activities? Have you been invited to a party or want and spend the evening at Crocker Park enjoying the music and fireworks display? If your dog gets terribly anxious from fireworks, then send rover on over to play with friends!

On Saturday July 4th we will be running two special playgroups - one from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM ($40) and a second from 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM ($50).

Each session includes our full valet door to door service and feel free to send along a picnic dinner for the second session. Reserve a spot now!

Article in Marblehead Home and Style

2009-06-22T13:10:00.010-04:00

I am thrillled, honored and humbled to share the following article from the Summer 2009 issue of Marblehead Home and Style magazine. What a ride it has been! If you click on an image, it will open to a full sized page.

Another Day of Fun at Small Fry!

2009-06-15T18:47:00.007-04:00

What a day! Pictured are Chester and Tippi engaged in non-stop tug of war, Cosmo mentoring Caesar on all things puglike, and MacIntosh keeping watch to be sure we are all safe. Too much!

Townwide Sidewalk Sale This Weekend!

2009-06-09T17:41:00.004-04:00

Come on down to join us this Saturday June 13 and Sunday June 14 for the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce's Townwide Sidewalk Sale with great discounts, family activities and refreshments throughout town. At Pawsitively Marblehead, we'll have a huge assortment of items on sale including stationary, grooming items, clothing, needlepoint pillows, winter sweaters and coats and bowls...oh my! And don't miss the "Five Dollar Bowsers Basement Bag" with an assortment of special treasures.

On Saturday from 12:00-2:00 PM, bring in your pooch for a pampering "pawdicure"! Also on Saturday, don't forget to visit artist Gayle Rosen of Flying Colors Face + Body Art who will be across the street at 60A Atlantic Avenue (former home to United Martial Arts Center) from 10am to 5pm.

Dear Fiona...

2009-06-05T16:49:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to share a precious picture of Fiona, a frequent camper and dog walking pal, that her mom just sent us. Don't you just want to give her a big smooch???

Summer Weekend Help is Here!!!

2009-06-04T12:35:00.006-04:00

We have two fun new options to offer you and your bowsers!

Are you looking for a safe place to let your dog off leash to play & make new friends? Or maybe you'd like to meet up with the pals your dog has made at camp who you don't even know! Bring them over for “stay and play” at our climate controlled (ie: air conditioned!) daycare facility on Saturdays from 9am-12pm; $10.

Do you need to get your pooch out of the house while you are hosting a special event such as a graduation celebration, birthday party or family cookout? Have us come over to pick up your dog, and we’ll bring them back happy, and kept out from under your feet. Up to 4 hours for $28.
Reservations are necessary; please call for more information.

"From Genes To Growls, Decoding 'The Modern Dog'"

2009-05-15T22:30:00.008-04:00

I listened to this program, "From Genes To Growls, Decoding 'The Modern Dog'", on WBUR this afternoon - ironically while driving our "Small Fry" friends home - with great interest. If you click on the link then "Listen Now" you can hear the program as well. I found it most interesting to learn that while already knowing intuitively what a special role all of my 'foster dogs' play in my life, it was fascinating to me to hear how much of an impact that connections with dogs play at such an early point in our lives, as well as in our continued development.

Marblehead Animal Control Offers Tips on Coexisting with Wildlife

2009-05-15T16:56:00.003-04:00

I found an interesting article in the Marblehead Reporter this week, Marblehead Animal Control Offers Tips on Coexisting with Wildlife. There are some interesting ideas on how we can protect our four legged friends, while also taking care of all creatures living in our area.

Please Join Us!

2009-05-09T16:37:00.003-04:00

In celebration of the recent "nose to tail" renovation of Pawsitively Marblehead and seven years on the Avenue, we are hosting a grand re-opening event this Wednesday, May 13 from 5:00 - 7:30 PM. The event will feature a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, yummy refreshments for two and four legged friends, a raffle and gifts courtesy of our generous vendors, including Preston Leather, Claudia's Canine Cuisine and Front Porch Pets. With sincere gratitude for the continued support of our valued customers, we are thrilled to be celebrating our renewed commitment to Marblehead's retail community.

We've Renovated!

2009-05-04T16:51:00.007-04:00

Here's a sneak peek of the newly renovated Pawsitively Marblehead - gotta love "American Cheese" yellow by Benjamin Moore! We'll be having a grand reopening on Wednesday, May 13th at 5:00 PM with the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, save the date and look for more details soon. And feel free to come in to check us out anytime!

New England Pet Retailers Get Together

2009-05-04T16:45:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of hosting fellow pet boutique retailers to the lovely town of Marblehead. We had lunch, shared some ideas, swapped items, and especially enjoyed a tour of town on our Doggie Daycare school bus. Our pal Leroy came along for the ride too!

Follow Up - Marblehead Art Walk

2009-05-03T16:41:00.003-04:00

We had a super weekend! Our reception Friday night was so fun, and the weather cooperated making for great weather to be out and about town enjoying the Marblehead Art Walk. Pawsitively Marblehead's hosted dog portrait artist Annette Nicholas who was on hand to share her passion for pooches.

Marblehead Art Walk

2009-04-29T21:32:00.003-04:00

This weekend, the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce and the Marblehead Arts Association are teaming up for the Marblehead Art Walk. Now in its second year, stores, restaurants, galleries and health professionals throughout town will be open Saturday and Sunday to host artists who will be displaying their work.

At Pawsitively Marblehead, we will be hosting dog portrait artist and Marblehead resident Annette Nicholas. Having spent most of her career in commercial art, she now turns to painting as a means to capture special moments. There will be an opening reception for both humans and canines on Friday, May 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Please come down to visit and join in the fun.

Friday at Small Fry

2009-03-13T16:38:00.004-04:00

A great day was had by all at Small Fry camp today. Special pals Bailey (golden doodle) and Buster (beagle) wrestled and played and played and played all day long! It even tired the other dogs out just watching them.

Our New Friend

2009-03-12T18:08:00.002-04:00

We are pleased to announce the addition of Cesar, an adorable pug puppy, to the Creature Comforts family! Cesar's family lost their precious little pug Lotus a few months ago, and their cats, Pan and Bliss, are welcoming him into their home with open paws. Too cute!!!

We're Renovating!

2009-03-12T18:04:00.003-04:00

In preparation for the 7th Anniversary of our retail store in May, Pawsitively Marblehead, we are going to town with fun, fresh paint and lighting fixtures and refinishing the floors. Pam and I loaded up the UHaul truck and there was no looking back. I can't wait! We are strongly committed to the success of Marblehead's retail community, and are looking forward to many more years of success with your continued support. Keep your eyes peeled for an invite to our grand-reopening celebration this spring.

Wrap up of the CKC Meet Up...

2009-02-23T08:42:00.002-05:00

The recent meeting of the Cavalier King Charles group was a tail wagging success, at Creature Comforts' Small Fry facility. Owners and their furry friends enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere while they mingled.

English and French Bulldog Meet Up...

2009-02-23T07:31:00.007-05:00

If you have a four-legged friend, who is a French or English Bulldog, please consider participating in a future Bulldog Meet Up, at Creature Comforts' doggie daycare facility, in Salem, MA. Please either call, 781.639.0449 or e-mail, brooks.paws@comcast.net, if interested.

(Fiona (on sofa), Bobby and Otis plan their first meeting.)

Santa Helped Raise $600 for the Marblehead Animal Shelter

2009-02-18T16:45:00.017-05:00

Santa greeted, Beau, a retired Champion Schipperke, at a fund raiser held during Marblehead's annual Christmas Walk. Donations were accepted while creatures were photographed with the jolly elf. Photographers were Pam Duncan, Paula Tassinari and Laura Dandaneau. For more information, please visit, Santa helps raise $600 for Animal Shelter

Cavalier King Charles Meetup, Saturday. February 7

2009-02-06T18:44:00.013-05:00

Cavalier King Charles Meetup

WHEN: Saturday, February 7 (11 AM- 1 PM)

WHERE: 247 Jefferson Avenue, Creature Comforts Doggie Day Care (small fry site), Salem, MA.

FEE: $10/ family

For more information and to receive future email notices, please send an email to brooks.paws@comcast.net or call Creature Comforts at 781.639.0449.

(Willow, Suki & Riley, 2007)

Fun & Games...

2009-01-23T18:28:00.003-05:00

Siena is one of many campers who loves the agility equipment, at doggie day care. The jungle gym provides a fun spot for her to await a ball.

Camp Awards?

2009-01-12T18:01:00.008-05:00

I think we need to have awards at camp. The CUTEST dog: Harry of course, the prettiest dog: Shobel, etc... forever the dog lover, Pooh

Happy Campers...

2009-01-12T09:09:00.006-05:00

Woody and Shayna had fun last summer while they prepared for agility class. Happy campers were they!

Snow Day!

2009-01-11T13:54:00.001-05:00

Our pals Bear and Shadow had a great time playing in the snow this afternoon!

My first blog posting!

2009-01-10T14:31:00.000-05:00

I am following one of my new year resolutions - to set up a blog and have a blast posting on it! Here's a picture of our whole crew from this summer on the EYC launch. I look forward to learning how to use this thing and share the many fun and amusing stories about our four legged friends from the past sixteen years. I've been told I should write a book many times, so here's a start!