Canine Companions for Independence · Company Profile · dog toys · Dogs · Holidays · Obsessions · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Stuffed Animals · Uncategorized

Tails in the City: Top 5 Holiday Gifts for Your Dog

Now that we have a few seconds to breathe before the holiday rush is upon us, I just had to take a minute and talk about my favorite all time favorite-like can’t live without kind of thing- boutique. For dogs of course.  Hey, just because I happen to be a Perky Pekingese Steiff named Sassafrass Jones does not mean I don’t get to enjoy the finer things in life…or at least admire them like a doggie in the window.

This window: Tails in the City.

Located in Chicago, this dog boutique is about as chic as they come. The owners, are Mama Sassafrass’ good friends, Phillip and Bruce. And boy do they know how to spoil the pooches. I have heard all about them over the years, but I actually got to meet these two genius’ at Dry Bark, our big party to raise awareness for Canine Companions for Independence in Atlanta. Can you believe they came all the way down to Atlanta just to support the cause.

And since the holidays are almost here (We have already started counting down the days), I decided A Holiday Wish List from Tails in the City just what the doggies ordered. So, Mama Sassafrass (AKA Cathleen Smith) please take note, these are the top five gifts for our pampered dogs that we are lusting for this season from our fave retailer Tails in The City.

  1.  Dog Perignonn Champagnehdd-dogpn-2

    because what dog can resist this plush squeaker toy from Haute Diggity Dog? It’s always Happy Hour at Habersham Forest. Click here to buy!

  2. Red Monkey Face Pajamas  kli-12000004-2

    Because these are beyond adorable and they are so comfy for your little pups. I mean what dog would resist a PJ made from super cozy polar fleece?  And, they are only $32 here

  3. Hugglehounds Hannukah Bear Dog Toyhh-hkbr-2

    For our friends that celebrate Hannukah, we choose this Hugglehound.  Whether you are big or small, there are two sizes you can pick but they both are from the ultra plush Holiday dog toys at Tails in the City. And this little sock teddy is wearing an oh-so-adorable Hanukkah sweater.  And don’t worry, we won’t eat right through this one. It is lined with Tuft Technology for added strength

  4. Animal Matters Shag Fur Snuggi (White with Brown Tips)

    Need I say more?  Comes in large and small and is for the ultimate cuddle dog…Be warned, you may have to pry your little one out of here to get in your own snuggle time. I mean look at this Snuggi.  Who would ever want to leave? Click here to purchase
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  5. Doggies love Couture…So here is our final pick…a couple of designer pieces from Haute Diggity Dog

    Maybe the Black Americanine Express dog toy for those big spenders, a Chewnel classic for the prissier pup, or an Hairmes Gift Box for the dog who enjoys only the finest things in life.ddd-amx-2 ddd-cnlb-2t ddd-hgb-2All of these an more are available online at www.tailsinthecity.com or in the flagship Chicago store.

Canine Companions for Independence · Company Profile · Dogs

Rub-a-dub-dub, Big Boi and Bobbi bring all the Dogs to the Tub

News alert: there is a new line of pet shampoo that is pretty much the Kérastase for the canine set. And guess who is behind this line of luxury? Rapper/mogul Big Boi (half of the duo from Outkast) and Chicago entrepreneur and socialite Bobbi Panter.

This duo makes quite the pair and more importantly quite the line of hair products to fit all types of needs for our fellow furry dog friends. Just launching (and already to much acclaim) , dog owners and their canines are chomping at the bit to get their hands on the hottest shampoo on the market. 

  

Here are some of the reasons why this shampoo is a MUST-have beauty need for all the dogs in the park.

  • Natural
  • 2x more washes
  • Tear-free (thank you Big & Bobbi because I know my fellow dog buddies just hate it when those tears start coming)
  • Salt Free
  • They smell divine!

 

I mean, how much better can it get when your dog comes out of the bath and feels like a million bucks? Luckily i am just a little Steiff dog, so my fur stays nice and clean, but (and let’s keep this between you and I) I think the real-live dogs living in Habersham Forest could use a little hydration and a good-smelling wash.

But on a more serious note, these shampoos address all types of ailments and hair types (or should i say fur-types) with specific smells and formulas to give your dog the wash of their life. Some of our faves (the canine-set has been abuzz since we got word of this new shampoo) are Hydrate (which smells like Blue Agave) and Invigorate (my personal favorite) which smells like Peach Rose. Can you think of a more delicious smell? And this formula, straight from the website, ” Restores and revitalizes dogs’ skin and fur with kiwi extract, rosemary, ginger root extract and chamomile, to leave your dog feeling rejuvenated.”

 Of course we had to reach out to these two brilliant partners, and we have some exciting news to announce in the pipeline. And it has to do with dogs, Canine Companions for Independence, more dogs and Big Boi & Bobbi Dog Shampoo. So stay tuned and make sure to follow these guys on social media and order your own shampoo. 

https://www.facebook.com/BigBoiBobbi-Dog-Shampoo-981895131889717/?fref=ts

Brands that Give Back · Canine Companions for Independence · Company Profile · Dogs

7 Reasons Nick Cannon is our Hero

Nick Cannon is one cool guy and today we are going to share the reasons why.  Pay special attention to reason #2.

  1. He just joined up with Men’s Wearhouse to donate and collect clothes for men reentering the workforce. #giveasuit
  2. Canine Companions for Independence and the whole gaggle in the Habersham Forest love him because he partnered with NexGaurd to tell stories of the CCI service dogs and their owners. Check out the stories, narrated by Nick Cannon, at http://herotails.com 
  3. He loves toys!  (Nick if you read this…we do too!)….and he makes them too.  Like this Ncredible Rocket Copter  (pictured below) . Thus bad boy launches up to 150 feet and has LED lights that can be seen up to half a mile away. 
  4. He works hard and started young. At just 17, he had already secured a gig as the warm-up comedian on Nickelodeon’s “All That”
  5. He is one dapper fellow. And you know how we love fashion. Recently all eyes were on him at the Perry Ellis show at Mens Fashion Week. Check out the article on Women’s. Wear Daily here.
  6. He was married to Mariah Carey. We love her and she sure loves her dogs. 
  7. He loves his dogs. So much in fact that when he and Mariah Carey got divorced they could not decide over the custody of their eight dogs. It was a bitter argument because they did not want to split them up and they both loved them all dearly. Check out the story here

    So Nick, I, Sassafrass Jones, and the rest of us in the forest, humans and Steiff alike, think you are amazing. Keep up the good work. 

    Company Profile · Obsessions · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Steiff · Stuffed Animals · teddy bears · Uncategorized

    SassySessions: Steiff Key Rings

    Guess what? You can carry a little plush Steiff animal everywhere you go.  How you may wonder….with a Sassafrass Jones Steiff keyring. We took the plush little Steiff cuties into our Habersham Forest Style Studio and dressed these animals in top-notch fashions.

    Okay, so maybe I personally can’t take credit for these guys, but I was there watching it and I did have some say in who should wear what. Like the panda in the tutu, that was all me.

    Okay so here they are:   The best way to upgrade your set of keys or even your purse or backpack. Just hook these little cuties and get ready to go.  All of these are available for purchase on our website.

     

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    Ms. Cupcake in a Gingham Apron Keychain, $22 http://www.sassafrassjones.com
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    Steiff Panda Ballarina Keychain, $22

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    Check out this little guy’s custom Sassafrass Jones collar, Calico Cat, 

     

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    The cutest little Steiff teddy in a bow and gingham apron
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    Bunny in a vest, $20

    Which one will you choose?  A must-have gift for yourself and for all of the friends in your life. Makes sure to check out our website, http://www.sassafrassjones.com for a brand new selection of custom-dressed Steiff Forever Friends by Cathleen Smith-Bresciani.

     

    Company Profile · Crafts · Dogs · Holidays · Obsessions · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Uncategorized

    Sassy ‘Sessions: Miniature Maddness

    Last weekend, Mama Sassafrass took me along with her to the annual miniature doll house  show.  It was so much fun! You would not believe how many fabulous miniatures there are out there. Of course, Mama was on a mission, picking this and that for her next book, but I still had a few hours to peek around the show. Here all the best tiny miniaturist and artisans sell their pieces to a group of doll house enthusiasts among other types. I just like how everything is so bite-sized. I mean, some of the things I saw were even too small for me. But I had a blast and got to see the talent of so many fabulous designers and sellers who must have the best eyes and tiniest little fingers to make the things they do.

    ***SassyFact:  The two books by Cathleen Smith Bresciani (AKA Mama Sassafrass) are filled with colorful and real life vignettes made with Steiff animals and miniature pieces. With the talent of mini architect Chris and the other talented minds in the Habersham Forest, Mama Sassafrass creates magical displays for everything. The ABC book, Sassafrass Jones’ ABCs pictures each Steiff with a little poem. The pictures are photographs of the real animal in its own little miniature set.  You may already know that, but if you didn’t, it’s something that is too good not to check out.

    But back to the show…

    Mind if I join you two?
    Mind if I join you two?
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    These books are all handmade by this cute girl who we buy from on Etsy. She even has kits that show you how to make your own miniature books.

     

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    Look at these fabulous sterling silver minis. I will eat my kibble out of one of these stunning pieces for sure.
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                                         Perfect for a Sassy Picnic!
    Miniatures Galore!!!!
    Think I would look good in this necklace?

     

    Perfect vanity table filled with gorgeous jewels and trinkets. Don’t mind if I do…
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    Let’s play some pool.

     

    Wow! These miniaturists really love to “pickle”
    The perfect totes and hat boxes for all of our goodies

    So it was a fun-filled day as you can see, and we went home with bags and bags of new things. I think Mama Sassafrass even bought me a few gifts, because she would not show me everything.  I can’t wait until next year’s show. Until then, of course, we can always go to our favorite playland of miniatures, Miniature Designs.  This store always has the best of the best and we can spend hours in there drooling over their latest finds.

    Glass wonderland
    Company Profile · Holidays · Sassafrass Jones · Steiff · Stuffed Animals · Uncategorized

    A Pekingese Picnic with the Habersham Family and the New Steiff Picnic Teddy Bears

     

    With the weather so gorgeous in Atlanta, we are really getting ready for a fabulous spring filled with great weather, beautiful flowers and one of our favorite pastimes: picnics. Just the thought of a picnic brings a smile to my face and wag to my tail. And since we live at the Habersham Forest, all we have to do is pack a basket filled with goodies, grab a blanket and some other fun things and find the perfect spot to get settled outside.

    It’s so much fun to go with our family and friends in the forest…..sometimes we all get to go together…and if you have ever been to the forest you know that is a whole bunch of stuffed animals…lambs, bears, giraffes, mice, etc. The list goes on.

    So you can imagine our excitement when we got word of the newest Steiff Picnic Collection. Looks like we will have some new friends joining our crew this spring.

    The Worldwide Limited Edition 2016 Steiff Picnic Collection includes Picnic girl, Picnic Boy, Picnic Mama and Picnic Papa. They are so new and there are only 1000 of each of these bears made. So, we recommend you get these guys soon.

    Here is a little big from the newest collection and our soon-to-be newest members of the Habersham Forest Family.

    The Picnic Girl (of course she is my favorite)

    The Picnic girl is made of the finest cream-colored Schulte mohair and is the most stylish of th021527_l__82042.1452142027.1280.1280e bunch, donning a lace collar tied with a bow. She also carries a working parasol, made out of cotton white lace that open and closes easily. I bet she would not mind sharing the umbrella over my little body if it gets too sunny. Maybe I could loan her a pair of my sassy shades.

     

    The Picnic Boy comes ready to play with his very own kite. He seems ready for anything sporting a blue and white-collar in case there is a post-picnic dinner. Picnic Boy is sen from gold-colored Schulte Mohair and is the friendliest bear of the bunch. At least that is what I am hearing from people outside of the Forest.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    I can’t wait to meet our new friends from Steiff and take them on a Habersham Picnic!

     

     

     

     

    021473_l__76476.1452142023.1280.1280And then comes Picnic Papa.  He is made from the finest auburn mohair, wearing a straw hat with a burgundy satin ribbon, a beige linen vest and has a wooden wine bottle (because it lasts that much longer). When Papa Picnic is out and about he is always with a bottle of red wine. Couple that with a Provincial picnic spread including a baguette and some cheese, he loves to feel that he is surrounded by the lavender scented summer breeze from his favorite landscape in Provence.

    And last but not least, is Picnic Mama Teddy Bear She loves to enjoy fruit in the countryside. In her basket she carries a half melon, strawberry and a pear (all made of wood). Mother Bear is wearing  a plaid shawl, with red-laced edging. Her hand embroidered nose in pale pink, makes a nice contrast to the fine-vanilla-colored mohair. 021480_l__25167.1452142024.1280.1280

    Company Profile · Dogs · Jewelry · Obsessions · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Uncategorized

    Sassy ‘Sessions: Jada Loveless Handbags

    Today, and just about every day, we are obsessed with Jada Loveless and her stunning handbags.  Chic, bespoke, modern ,my mom’s friend and Atlanta resident Jada Loveless is an inspiration to all of us in the Style Studio at Habersham Forest. Using only the finest leathers, unique textiles, and American Alligator, eveyone here wants to get their paws on these fabulous bags.

    So the other day, Mama Sassafrass, took out her own Jada Loveless bag, custom made for her…and I started doing my poses.20160209_111929

    My mom brings out this gorgeous clutch to wear with this special coat she has.

    I jumped right into the bag, and boy did 20160209_111939_001 (2)it feel good. Of course, I had my shades on and my flower straw hat.

    But Back to Jada Loveless and her timeless, handcrafted purses and accessories that are one-of-a-kind. From the fine leather to the gemstones and metal detail she uses on the clasps, her pieces are always Red Carpet-worthy.  Stars like Mariska Hagitay, Brooke Shields, Kate Hudson and Eva Longoria Parker agree…have all been photographed toting a Jada Loveless piece of art.

    The local Atlantan has her own flagship store in Nantucket, but you can buy the bags at Neiman Marcus and Jeffrey Atlanta. or. online, Taigon.com is a good option.

     

     

     

     

     

    Here are some of our faves we wanted to show off…12654521_1061039550605539_6100882804197555967_n

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    Estella Crossbody bag in Bordeaux. Alligator with vermeil and ruby studs. A true gem. 

    Back to me and our SPECTACULAR JL purse….20160209_111745

    Company Profile · Dogs · Jewelry · Obsessions · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Uncategorized

    Sassy ‘Sessions: Luxury Dog Toys

    We have fallen in love with these designer luxuries for all our canine pals. Made by Haute Diggity Dog as well as from the house brand at Tails in The City pet boutique in Chicago (and online), these toys are so on our radar right now.

    These plush toys are designed for the truly pampered pooches of the world.   We have two doggies living with us in Habersham Forest (I mean real-live dogs, because as you know I am a dog, just happen to be stuffed) and those dogs go crazy over these luxe dog play toys.

    This is our list of the must-have toys  that we order from our favorite pet store Tails in the City. They have the most amazing selection of items for the pampered pooch (and even for the catered-to cats). From dog jewelry and fashion to the toys and ultra-luxe pet carriers and grooming products, there is something for every dog (and cat) in this designer pet boutique.  Think fashion luxury for the canine set and check out our faves.

     

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    Chewy Vuitton Purse in two sizes. Updated with the Checker design. A classic for your furry friend. 

     

     

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    Sniffany & Co Dog Toy….A Perfect Valentine’s Day gfit for the pampered pooch and jewelry lover. 
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    If you really want to spoil your baby, this is the toy to get. A Black Americanine Express Dog Toy. Can you think of anything better?  Here is what Tails in the City says about this latest toy they have for purchase “Your dog will love having its very own credit card toy to carry around- especially when it’s the Americanine Express Black Credit Card. 

     

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    Furcedes Car is the latest and hautest designer dog toy from Haute Diggity Dog

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    Pawtier Watch Toy  This adorable toy from Haute Diggity Dog will match your Cartier and provide endless hours of fun with this plush watch with squeaker inside. 

     

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    Koko Chewnel Perfume Toy  Pretend that your pooch has the Coco Chanel pefume aroma whle they go crazy playing with the squeaker inside. 
    Canine Companions for Independence · Company Profile · Dogs · Holidays · Jewelry · Sassafrass Jones · Stuffed Animals · Uncategorized

    Gifts that Give Back: For any Occasion

    Even though the holidays are over (and there is a short period before Valentine’s Day gift guides pop up everywhere), people are still giving and receiving gifts. Whether it’s for a birthday, a special occasion, a thank you or a congratulations…there is always a reason to buy a gift.

    As most of you know, the inhabitants at the Habersham Forest love to help others through donations and charity involvements. So much so that the proceeds from our new Sassafrass Jones & Her Forever Friends ABCs book go directly to this great organization Canine Companions for Independence.

    So, we decided to a make a list where you can find some great products and gifts, while doing good at the same time.  Let us know if you have any others that you would like us to add to the list. We just wanted to give a few examples to get you started.

     

    1. Toms  We all know that Tom’s brand donates a pair of shoes for each pair purposed. That is their philosophy and they have been doing that forever. But now, they have expanded that into their line of eyewear and handbags.  We, of course, love the eyewear. With every purchase of eyewear, Tom’s will help to give sight to a person. One for one. Check out these Maverick 201 Black shades.   For a mere $139, you get these and you get the chance to give the gift of sight
    2. Yoobi  These fun and playful classroom and office supplies adorable and every purchase you make is for a good cause. For every Yoobi item you purchase, Yoobi gives one item to a classroom or student in need. Our favorite thing right now is The Weekender Getaway Bundle which includes a rubber luggage tag, a 24 pack of gel pens, an aqua colored journal, an aqua duffle bag and blue ear buds in a case.  Our fave part of this item is that it comes with five goodies, and in return, Yoobi donates five goodies when you buy this. Weekend_Getaway_Bundle_1024x1024
    3. Joan Hornig This designer knows how to make a statement. And we mean that in a variety of ways. Not only does she design show-stopping Hollywood-worth jewels but she donates 100% of the profits to a charity of the purchaser’s choosing. How cool? So, if we wanted to purchase something from her amazing silver linings collection, we could pick Canine Companions for Independence as the charity of our choice. Fittingly, I think our favorite is the Bark for a Cause Bone and Heart Charm Pair necklace  One for my collar and one that Mama Sassafrass can wear on the chain around her neck. bone and heart necklaces
    4. Of course, we are partial to Steiff when it comes to Teddy Bears. And we rarely look at anything else just because Steiff is part of the family. But, this company, Bears for Humanity, definitely gives us reason to pay attention. For each organic teddy bear purchased, they give one to a child in need.  Now that, my friends, is very cool. Take the bear, Sweetie, for instance. Sweetie is made with 100% certified organic cotton/hemp fibers and I quote “these bears are infinitely snuggly and are at home at a tea party or a dance party. Plus, our naturally anti-bacterial organic fabric gives you the peace of mind you can’t get from polyester plush toys”   You can even accessorize Sweetie with a bib, a message, a bow tie or a polo shirt. Now we are talking. wp-1452534076618.jpg
    5. Sassafrass Jones & Her Forever Friends ABCs book.  Come on, its not like we could talk about all the brands we love that are giving to charities and not mention our own:)  Did you know that 100% of the proceeds from the purchase of this fun and whimsical ABC book filled with an amusing cast of Steiff animals goes to Canine Companions for Independence?  Order now and help support the best organization in whole world!scan0003
    Canine Companions for Independence · Company Profile · Dogs · Jewelry · Sassafrass Jones · shopping · Uncategorized

    Brands that Give Back: Flutter Eyewear (Be Still My Heart)

    Many people know that I am a perky Pekingese with a delicate eye condition, and therefore, I have become known for my chartrefooter-guse cat-eye glasses that I wear around. They have become a staple in the Habersham Forest and they are even the logo for our Sassafrasss Jones brand umbrella. Pretty cool!

    But here’s where things get interesting. The other day I was pawing on the internet, looking up the usual stuff..cool eye glasses, fashion blogs, jewelry, and Canine Companions for Independence.  For some reason, I decided to explore the whole site for CCI (usually i leave the reading to my mama and I  just look at the pictures) and I saw a business name as a contributor that popped out at me:  Flutter Eyewear.

    Hmmm…I thought. What in the world is this about? And, boy am I glad that I did my research because I have now found my new favorite online shop and I think my mama and the two woman who started the company would make great “forever friends”.

    Here’s a little background on Flutter Eyewear:  Two woman Gayle Haworth and Patti Lee Hoffmann up and started this company when they could not find reading glasses that were stylish. After searching the displays at Neiman Marcus and Saks, they decided to create their own line.

    The philosophy written on their website is brilliant.

    Flutter reading glasses are little personalities just waiting to be put on. With our frames, you can slip on a whole new image. Flutter reading glasses can be instant sex appeal or instant stature or instant glamour, depending upon your mood. Just slip your eyes into them. And our reading glasses are fun to buy. There is a Flutter eyeglass that will perfectly frame the masterpiece that you are.120709_portraits_093_500

    But here is what the absolutely coolest part about their company is: they love dogs and they support our favorite organization Canine Companions for Independence. Hey, that is just like us.  Did you know that the  proceeds from all of our book sales on www.sassafrassjones.com go to Canine Companions for Independence.  And at Flutter, they donate 50 cents for each pair of glasses that is purchased. 

    After reading that, I decided I had to peruse the site and see if i could find some new frames. I mean, it is hard to fit a little Steiff dog but stranger things have happened. I tried the virtual try on app, but I am pretty sure that is just meant for human faces. I understand. It’s not everyday a dog goes prowling for new frames.

    But they have this cool option where you can download the paper doll version of the frame you like. Then cut it out and try it on. How brilliant?

    Check out some of their stylish frames:

     

     

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    And look at their beautiful packaging. Mama Sassafrass is very big on presentation. There is not an order that is sent out without her approval and magical touch to make it look fabulous.