In my community, a sweet Yorkie is now an orphan. She’s in our local animal shelter until a new home can be found for her. Her owner passed away unexpectedly and left no instructions for her dog’s continuing care. This happened just a few days before I dog-sat for my good friends who went to an out-of-state wedding. At the last minute, they left a scribbled note on the kitchen counter, “To whom it may concern,” specifying their wishes for their dogs should they both die. It got me thinking about the importance of estate planning for our pets. We go to great lengths to keep our animal companions healthy and happy. Yet many of us fail to consider their welfare if they outlive us. Do we really want our beloved companions landing in a shelter, trembling in apprehension and confusion? Do we want their comfort and sense of security compromised as the people around them – compassionate though they may be – struggle to understand our pet’s cues, quirks, and history? It’s not fun to think about dying. But it’s also not fun imagining an uncertain future for our pets. Fortunately, we won’t have to do either for long. With a few simple steps, we can protect our pet’s future, and then get on with the joy of sharing a life with them. Laws pertaining to pets and estate planning vary from state to state, so for the most accurate information, you’ll want to consult with a local attorney. The following information is not intended to be legal advice, but it represents options available in many states. The Strongest Legal Protection for Your Pet Creating a pet trust enables a pet owner to leave their pet to an individual who will be legally obligated to care for the pet. If the caretaker does not follow the pet owner’s wishes, the caretaker can be sued. With a pet trust, a pet owner can also:
Legal, But Without Obligation In their will, a pet owner can name the individual they want to assume the role of caretaker for their pet. The pet owner can also leave money for the pet’s care. But is the named caretaker legally obligated to care for the pet? Attorney Marc J. Comer says no, at least in his state of New Jersey. “That person (the named caretaker) must be willing to accept the pet at the appropriate time. The same idea applies to people. You can identify a guardian to raise your child, but that does not obligate that person to accept the role.” Comer also warns that someone who verbally states their willingness to care for a pet after the owner dies may still end up refusing the pet. “Circumstances of that person’s life may have changed, making it impractical for them to ‘adopt’ the pet,” says Comer. What happens if an individual is granted a pet in the pet owner’s will, but then after the owner’s death, is unable or unwilling to take on that caretaking role? What happens to the beloved pet? Can the caretaker give the pet away or surrender it to a shelter? “Not initially,” says Comer. “If the person chooses not to accept the pet, the pet remains in the estate as tangible property and is under control of the executor. However, once someone accepts the pet, then yes, he or she could give it away. If there was a pet trust, the trust funds would follow the animal to its next destination.” If a pet owner believes that their wishes will be honored by the person to whom they’re willing their pet, this could be a good option. However, anything can happen, and it’s possible that a named caretaker may not be able to fulfill their promise. That’s why it’s important for pet owners to name a back-up caretaker in their will. Legally Naming an Organization as Caretaker If a pet owner finds they have no one to whom they’d entrust the care of their pet, all is not lost. It’s possible for a pet owner to legally will their pet to an organization that specializes in caring for pets whose owners have passed away. Here are a few options. You may also want to contact a local animal rescue for a referral to a program close to home:
Planning Without Legal Protection While making legal arrangements is the safest way for a pet owner to ensure the best care for their pet after they die, there are other, non-legal steps one can take. If you have a will It’s important to note that if a pet owner has a will, but leaves no instructions for the care of their pet, the pet will be given to the pet owner’s “residuary beneficiary”. This is the person whom the pet owner names in their will to receive what’s left of their estate after all gifts have been distributed. Can a pet owner provide instructions for the care of a pet without revising their will? Usually, this can be done by a separate writing. Ask your attorney. What if the pet owner hasn’t provided instructions for their pet’s care in their will, but they’ve given verbal instructions to their executor? “Giving oral instructions to the executor does not make those instructions enforceable,” says Comer. “The intent of the testator (the person whose will it is) is demonstrated by what is written in the will, not by what the testator allegedly said. However, if all the parties in interest come to an agreement, the pet can go to the person or organization willing and able to provide the best care.” If you don’t have a will If a pet owner dies without leaving a will, all of the pet owner’s property will be distributed according to the laws of their state, through “intestate succession” (more information here). Remember, this includes pets, as pets are considered personal property. The pet owner will have no control over what happens to their pet. Whether you have a will or not Here are some smart things a pet owner can do with or without a will:
We like to say that we’ll love our pets forever. But do we mean their “forever”, or ours? If our pet’s forever goes on beyond ours, we can ensure that they continue to receive our love even after we’re gone. It takes a little effort, but they’re worth it. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice.
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Summer’s here, and for most of us, that means the heat is on. While all that flooding sunshine can deliver a healthy dose of Vitamin D, it can also present unique dangers, for pets as well as people. These quick tips will put you in-the-know so you can keep your beloved four-legged companions out of the danger zone. Staying Cool Heat stroke is no joke. It can be fatal. Heat stroke can happen when an animal’s body temperature rises above its normal range. A dog can suffer organ damage or death at 108 degrees. For a cat, that number is 106 degrees. Signs of heat stroke in pets include:
If you see these symptoms in your pet, call your veterinarian immediately. Hot Cars Speaking of heat stroke, keeping your pet in a warm car alone is never a good idea, even if you crack open a window or park in the shade. You might think it’s safe because you’re “just running into the store for a minute”, but you might be surprised by how quickly a car can become dangerously hot. Consider these alarming stats from the ASPCA (American Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals):
Staying Hydrated Heat stroke isn’t the only warm-weather danger that can be fatal to your pet. Dehydration is serious business, too. Animals need plenty of water to maintain good health, but this is especially true in warmer weather. Without enough water, a pet can suffer organ damage or even die from dehydration. Many pet owners may be tempted to think that just keeping an animal’s water bowl full is enough, trusting that the pet will drink when it needs to. Unfortunately, this isn’t always true, so it’s important to keep an eye on your pet’s water consumption and encourage drinking. For example, for dogs, adding a splash of bone broth to water can make it more appealing. If you leave the house with your pet, be sure to bring plenty of water and a bowl or portable pet water bottle. It’s not a good idea to encourage your pet to drink from natural bodies of water, like ponds, rivers and lakes. These could contain harmful elements like bacteria or pollutants. Signs of dehydration in pets include:
If you see these symptoms in your pet, call your veterinarian immediately. Hot Pavement Have you ever walked barefoot on hot pavement? Under a summer sun, concrete, asphalt, and similar surfaces can become scorching and can be painful and cause burns. It’s no different for pets. Their paws are just as vulnerable as our feet. Whenever possible, encourage your pet to walk on a cooler surface in summer, like dirt or grass. Otherwise, booties and socks can help, as can taking walks when surfaces tend to be cooler, such as in early morning or evening. Signs of burned footpads include:
If you see these symptoms in your pet, call your veterinarian immediately. Burns can become infected. Shaving is Not Always Best For some breeds of dogs, the “summer cut” is an annual ritual. Pet owners take their dog to the groomer for a super-short haircut in an effort to keep the animal cool. However, a total shave or near-shave isn’t the best idea. Without enough fur, a dog is more likely to suffer sunburn. You can prevent sunburn in your dog by using child-safe sunscreen. Look for an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply to the parts of the dog’s body that are most likely to burn, including:
Be sure to reapply if your dog rolls around in the grass or goes in water. If you think your dog may be sunburned, get him out of the sun and apply cool, wet compresses to the affected areas. If redness or blisters are present, call your veterinarian immediately. Bug Season The insects come out in summer and they’ll be looking for someone to bug. Your pet is no exception. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, which are prevalent in summer. Be sure your pet is taking preventative heartworm medication. Ticks thrive in summer and can cause a variety of serious illnesses including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease. Consider using tick prevention medication for your pet. Your vet can make recommendations. Also, it’s smart to be cognizant of pesticides and other lawn chemicals that can be harmful to pets. Often homeowners who use these kinds of products will post a warning sign on their lawn for neighborhood pet owners, but not always. Steer your pets away from greenery you’re not sure about. Fireworks Aren’t Fun for Everyone Many pets are unsettled by loud noises like fireworks and summer thunderstorms. They may hide, paw at carpet or furniture, whine, pace, and display other signs of anxiety. Here are three ways to help your frightened pet:
Summer may present perils for pets, but with a little knowledge, awareness, and some easy preventative measures, it can be a safe and joyful season for the animals we love. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. Pet names are created in a variety of ways. I once met a woman who named her dog Dog. He was a stray that found his way into her life without ceremony, and his name served its purpose. He came when he was called. I also know a busy working woman who adopted two sibling cats and called them Brother and Sister – just as placeholders, but the names stuck because she didn’t have the time or energy to think of better ones. No approach to naming a pet is better than another, as long as our pets are given the love and care they deserve. However, some of us recognize the fun in choosing a pet’s name and we want to put more thought into it. Even when we’re enthusiastic about it, exactly how to name a pet can elude us. Here are some ideas that may generate the perfect name for your pet. Your Pet’s Appearance Plenty of pet names are inspired by physical appearance. These tend to be friendly names that make people smile, because they’re understood immediately. Who wouldn’t grin at a chocolate lab named Hershey, or a big gray British Shorthair cat called Stormy? Some things to consider: Color or texture of coat Examples:
Body type or size Examples:
Behavior Clues Sometimes a pet’s innate or unique behavior can inspire a name, whether it’s in their speed or athleticism, a habit, or their personality. Energetic pets Examples:
Affectionate pets Examples:
Exceptionally serene or even lazy pets Examples:
Your Favorite Things Many a pet name has been inspired by its owner’s passions and hobbies. Think about: Favorite TV shows, movies, books, and their characters Examples:
Hobbies and InterestsExamples:
Favorite celebrities, athletes, and people from historyExamples:
Popular Pet Names In 2020, these were the top ten most popular dog names among BarkBox subscribers:
Travel + Leisure published the entire list of the top 100 here. Curious about popular cat and dog names over the past 100 years? This fun article from Mental Floss lists them by decade. “Smokey” and “Max” are high-rankers. You Look Like a Bartholomew After all of this, if you’re still having trouble deciding on a name for your pet, sometimes it just takes one good look at their sweet face. Your gut may tell you what to name your pet, and that perfect moniker – whether it’s Princess, Zeus, of Foo-Foo – will pop right out of your mouth. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. As we move into the summer months, many of us will be venturing outdoors in search of recreation on boats, in pools, and on the beach. But is it safe to bring your dog in the water? For some dogs, swimming is in their DNA. Their breeds have been working in water for centuries. Take the Portuguese Water Dog, for example. This breed has a long history as the fisherman’s helper, trained to carry objects between ships or from ship to shore. Now, that’s an experienced swimmer! But not all dogs take naturally to water. Here’s what you need to know before you take your four-legged bestie swimming. DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, physician or other qualified care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before taking your pet swimming, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Some Dogs Aren’t Swimmers Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are born to swim. Some breeds have unique physical features that may make them susceptible to drowning, such as those with short legs, a stocky build, or short nose. Their bodies aren’t made to stay afloat, and short legs take short strokes which may not be enough to keep them above water. Short-nosed dogs can become quickly overcome because their nasal passages are narrow and not suited to sustained deep breathing. Other dogs may be too weak to swim safely and comfortably. This includes dogs who are:
Water Can Scare Your Dog Water can be scary for your dog, especially when:
Grabbing a dog and throwing them into water to “sink or swim” is not only dangerous, but it can be cruel if they’re terrified. It may also create a fear of water for dogs that are young or strangers to water. Instead of traumatizing a dog, help them gain a sense of confidence so they can know the fun of water play and avoid panicking in a hairy situation. Life Jackets Are Important for All Dogs – Even Strong Swimmers Every dog, no matter how strong and capable in water, should wear a life jacket. Dogs can tire out. They can also encounter the unexpected, panic, and swallow water. They can get caught in currents that are stronger than they are and get carried far away from safety. Life jackets are made to save their lives. When shopping for a life vest for your dog, here are some things to keep in mind:
Good News: Most Dogs Can Learn to Swim If your dog isn’t built for swimming but still shows an interest in water, it’s still possible to enjoy time in the water together. Many dogs can be taught to swim, but it’s crucial that your dog wear a life jacket, even when they’re supervised and taking lessons. Many dog training facilities and even some doggy daycare centers offer swimming lessons for dogs. However, if you’re up for the DIY approach, here are some tips to help give your dog a positive experience:
More Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe in Water Water can present a variety of perils to your dog. It’s especially important to be aware of these: Cold. Frigid water can cause hypothermia, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition in which the dog’s body temperature drops below its normal range. In addition to serious physical consequences, it can also impact a dog’s ability to swim, making them susceptible to drowning. With hypothermia, a dog’s blood travels to his major organs in order to keep them warm. That means there’s less blood in his legs, making swimming difficult. If your dog is shivering or cannot move his tail, get him to a vet immediately. Here’s an easy math equation to help keep your dog safe: Air temperature + water temperature = 100° or higher If the sum is under 100°, your dog will be safer out of the water. Heat. Extreme heat, just like extreme cold, can be fatal to your beloved pet. Prevent heat stroke and dehydration in your dog by making sure he has plenty of shade and clean water to drink. Even better, employ a cooling pad or cooling vest for added comfort and safety. Sun Damage. Yes, dogs get sunburn, too, especially those with lighter coats that allow the sun’s rays through to the skin. But even a dog with a thick, dense coat can be easily burned on the nose. Pack your doggie sunscreen. Swallowing Water. It’s inevitable that your dog is going to swallow some water while swimming. But swallowing too much could make him sick. A snack of freeze-dried or dehydrated food can help soak up some of the excess water in your dog’s stomach. A better option, of course, is prevention. Keep swimming sessions short and sweet, about 10 minutes or less. Critters. When swimming in a natural body of water, your dog is going to share space with other creatures. Some may not be so friendly. For example, in fresh water, snakes and snapping turtles may bite. In some areas, alligators are a very real danger and can take your dog down in the blink of an eye. And in the ocean…well, there’s no shortage of dangers lurking there, including stinging jelly fish, barbed rays, sharks and more. There are few ways to entirely protect your dog from water critters, but it’s important to steer clear of areas where aggressive predators are known to be present, and to keep an eye on your dog at all times. Sharp Objects. Rivers, ponds and oceans are littered with rocks and seashells, some of them quite sharp, which can slice a dog’s paw. Walk through the water yourself first to checks things out. Fish Hooks. Be aware of the possibility of discarded fish hooks in natural bodies of water. A hook containing juicy, delicious bait will be irresistible to a dog, and the hook itself will almost certainly injure him. If your dog gets a hook in his mouth, rush him to a vet immediately. Toxic Algae. In the past few years, it’s become increasingly common for natural bodies of water to be closed for human recreation due to toxic blue-green algae. It can make both people and animals ill. Be aware of local alerts concerning toxic algae blooms and avoid waters where harmful algae is present. Strong Currents. Powerful water currents are an all-too-common cause of drowning, because currents can come from out of nowhere, and are often stronger than even the strongest swimmer. To be safe, keep your dog on an extra-long leash (about 30 feet), so in the event that a current starts to carry your dog away, you can tow him back to safety. Exhaustion. Even without the danger of strong currents, dogs can tire easily in water, including in a pool. They may get lost in their own enthusiasm, and then when the reality of their exhaustion seems to hit from out of nowhere, they can flounder. Keep a close eye on your dog, and encourage frequent breaks. Dogs are our best friends. No wonder we love their company wherever we go! But when planning a day of water fun, it’s important to consider a dog’s comfort and safety. By taking the right precautions, we can enjoy the warm-weather pleasures of a refreshing swim with our four-legged friend and remember it fondly, forever. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. The road trip is back, baby! Now that some COVID restrictions are being lifted, thoughts are turning to going anywhere but home. But there’s someone who’s just loved having you at home, and that’s your pet. If you’re thinking about taking a road trip, your pet’s going to miss you. A lot. But if he or she is the adventurous type, taking your pet on the road might be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever share. Is Car Travel Right for Your Pet? First, you’ll have to decide if traveling by car is a good idea for your pet. All pets are individuals, just like people. Some will relish car travel, and others will be unsettled by it.
Seat Belts Save Animal Lives, Too As a passenger in your car, your pet will face the same hazards that any person would. A seat belt could save their life. For some pets, like dogs, there are car safety seats that incorporate your existing seat belt. Some allow for limited but comfortable movement (and the all-important ability to stick their head out of the window) while still preventing fatal impact in the event of an accident, or even a short stop. Some dog safety seats resemble car seats for children. Others are more like dog beds that allow the dog to nestle in while staying securely tethered to the seat belt. Other pets may feel more secure in a crate stowed safely in the back of the vehicle. When deciding whether or not car travel is right for your pet, keep in mind how they respond to the confinement of a travel carrier. Sit, Stay, Eat! When traveling with a pet by car, it’s important to plan ahead. For example, you may be able to control your bladder or ignore your rumbling belly through the next couple of rest stops, but your pet may not. Be prepared to meet your pet’s needs promptly when they arise.
If your pet eats refrigerated food, it’s easy enough to pack a cooler and replenish fresh ice along the way if necessary. You can also buy coolers and mini-fridges that plug into your car’s dashboard. Fast food is never a good idea for pets, as it can easily cause stomach upset. Eating in a moving car can do the same. (Do you really want to deal with vomit or diarrhea in such close quarters?) Perhaps more importantly, fast food can contain ingredients that are outright toxic to pets, such as onions and garlic. However, you might get lucky and find yourself near an eatery with a pet-safe menu. Here’s one website that maps them.
Never Forget: Overheated Vehicles Can Be Deadly to Pets You might think leaving your pet in the car is safe enough on a mild day, but cars can heat up quickly in all kinds of weather. On a 70° day, the inside of your vehicle can quickly climb to 90°. Within half an hour, that temperature can escalate to 120°. Never leave an animal alone in a closed car, as this can cause fatal heat stroke. For your animal’s comfort on the move, consider buying a cooling mat. Taking a road trip with your pet is possible, and it could be a ton of fun. You’ll never forget the quality time you spent with your best friend. And you never know – the next time your pet has a pleasant dream, it might be a remembrance of the fascinating sights they enjoyed on their great adventure with you. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. I was told my dog Tillie had three weeks to live, tops. I was devastated. She hadn’t always lived with kind people, so I wanted her to go to her final rest knowing what it was to be loved. I put my heartache aside and focused on her happiness. Being a Labrador retriever, there was nothing – nothing – she loved more than chasing a tennis ball. After learning her days were numbered, I vowed to take her to the park to play every single day. And I did. But one day, weather got in the way. During a torrential rain storm, I called a local pet training facility and asked if I could rent a room for two hours. I explained why and they were quick to agree. While the rain drummed against the windows, Tillie bounded about the wide, gym-like room, lost in the ecstasy only a dog with a ball can know. Naturally we want our pet’s last days to be as happy and comfortable as possible. Here are 5 doting ways you can see your animal friend to the other side. But First… Check with your vet to see what, if anything, could make your pet uncomfortable. For example, long walks or extended play could cause pain, as could certain foods. People, Places and Things
No-Holds-Barred Pampering If there was ever a time to spoil your pet rotten, this is it.
Along for the Ride. If you have a dog who loves being in the car, take them along for the ride as often as possible – and roll the widow down enough for them to stick out that happy head and relish the breeze.
We can’t keep them forever, and it stinks. Big time. But we can keep them as comfortable as possible, and even keep them happy through their final days. With every little thing we do, they understand – in their own way – that they are loved. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. Congratulations on your decision to give a pet a safe and loving home! If you’re a first-time pet owner, you may not realize what potential dangers lurk in your home, especially for an insatiably curious puppy or kitten. Keep your new family member safe by puppy proofing or kitten proofing your home. Even experienced pet owners may need a refresher course when bringing home a new pet, especially if you’re accustomed to living with an older or ultra-chill pet with few exploratory urges. You may have forgotten what it’s like to be vigilant, and a pet in new surroundings will inevitably want to scout the terrain. To keep them safe, take these easy steps to cat proof or dog proof your home. Here’s what you need to know: Pet Toxins: Know ‘Em and Stow ‘Em The average home is full of things that can be toxic to pets. And we’re not just talking about the obvious substances like rodent poison and cleaning supplies. Commonplace foods and house plants can cause illness and even be deadly to animals. Eliminate or carefully store these items out of your pet’s reach: - Food and Drink Chocolate, grapes, onions, and many more common edibles can be poisonous to your pet. The ASPCA offers a list of these substances and how they can harm your cat or dog. - Drugs Drugs account for 22% of pet poisonings. Keep all prescription and over-the-counter medications safely stored. Always open medicines over a sink to prevent spills and wayward pills that pets could lick up. - Household Chemicals It probably goes without saying that safely storing household chemicals is a must for a pet-safe home. Here are some you might not have thought of:
- Plants It’s worthwhile scoping out your indoor and outdoor plants for varieties that can sicken or even be fatal to your pet. Here are some of the most common:
The Pet Poison Helpline offers a more in-depth list of plants that are unsafe for pets. Anything Can Be a Chew Toy – And That’s Not a Good Thing Pets like to nibble and gnaw, especially young ones testing their new choppers. But that can be bad news, for you and for them. It helps to stay tidy and keep all of your belongings stowed out of your pet’s reach or in pet-proof cabinets and drawers. Here are some things to be careful with:
Now is the time to live by the adage, “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” Border Control One of the simplest and best ways to keep a pet out of harm’s way is to cordon off danger zones and create safe spaces with fences and gates. For puppies in particular, it’s all too easy to bound recklessly into the street or tumble down stairs. The time and attention it takes to puppy proof or kitten proof your home isn’t much, and it’s worth it to create a safe haven. You brought them into your home to provide a better life. These simple pet-proofing measures will help ensure that their life is long, healthy, and happy. For any animal poison-related emergency, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) 24 hours a day, 365 days a week at 888-426-4435. A consultation fee may apply. CONTENT WRITER & CONTRIBUTOR, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, an animal lover, and a history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. |
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