“…because every dog deserves a happy ending.“

Shortly after I reopened my shop this February, I received an Etsy conversation from Renee, a member of the fundraising committee for an animal organization I was unfamiliar with. After some research through various charity guides and visiting the organization’s website, I was quite impressed with what I saw.

Based in San Francisco, Muttville.org is a wonderful organization dedicated to “changing how the way world thinks and treats older dogs and to create better lives for them through rescue, foster and hospice.”

I have a special affinity for older dogs so I immediately connected with this organization’s mission and made four necklaces for their “Moolah For Mutts” 2009 fundraiser this coming June.

Click the links above to find out more about this great organization and how to help them.

The photos above show the pieces I made especially for Muttville. Special thanks to glass artist, Marcy Lamberson, for donating the shaggy dog bead, and especially to glass artist, Janet Crosby, for her continued support and generosity. The black silver-core paw print bead shown above was a present from her.

The photos below show my packaging process. Enjoy!

Giving Wisely. Whenever you’re contacted by a nonprofit organization you’re unfamiliar with and asked to make a donation, it’s always a good idea to verify their legitimacy and find out more about them before you give. Here are some of the websites I regularly use to check out any charity organization:

GuideStar
U.S. National BBB
Charity Navigator
American Institute of Philanthropy

Lastly, the donation docs page has been updated with my most recent donation made from 1st quarter sales from my Etsy shop – a check to the National Canine Cancer Foundation in memory of sweet Spencer.

Thanks so much for stopping by. Until next time – take care & stay well.

This series of pink themed jewelry is dedicated to Spencer, a truly special furry being who passed away on February 17, 2009, of Hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive form of canine cancer.

Spencer was a retired movie star, a golden retriever mascot, and a therapy dog. He touched so many who came in contact with him because of his gentle and sweet nature. Others, including me, came to know his fun and goofy side through his blogged adventures.

50% of the proceeds from these listings will be donated to the National Canine Cancer Foundation in Spencer’s name. Click the photos to check out the item in my Etsy shop.

RIP sweet Spencer. You left a world a bit better just by being in it. You are loved. You are missed. You are my friend. You are forever in my heart.

I just listed four new items in my Etsy shop. Please click the photos or links for more details.

Every so often, I get really excited about a piece of jewelry I’ve just made – and this is one of those! The first piece above is an easy-to-wear, one-of-a–kind, golden retriever necklace titled “Every Dog Has Its Day“.

It features artisan Lampwork beads by two of my favorite glass artists – the sweet and adorable golden retriever dog bead by Janet Crosby, and fun, whimsical discs by Dawn White.

The golden retriever bead was a holiday pressie from Janet last Christmas. She’s one of the most generous, kindest people I’ve ever met online!

One hundred percent of the proceeds will benefit GRCGLA Rescue.

Another piece I’m excited about above is called “Poochini“. It features an adorably goofy dog bead by glass artist, Kim Yamakawa of Juju Beadz. This bead is made out of gray glass that’s been etched for a matte finish and is velvety soft to the touch.

Don’t forget to check out the other two listings:
“Bare Bone” – a classic white dog bone necklace in a back-to-basics black & white color scheme. One hundred percent benefits HSUS.

“Blooberry” – a robin’s egg blue with cranberry paw prints dog bone necklace. One hundred percent benefits HSUS.

COMING UP NEXT OVER THE WEEKEND: three new golden retriever themed pieces benefitting Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue, one of which will be donated in honor of golden retriever puppies, Ben & Jerry.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Until next time – take care & stay well! Woof!