Today's blog comes from Janet Millett, Central Library Staff:

Very few positive things have ever been said about cat hair covering the furniture. Those who have feline companions must resign themselves to deal with the inevitable byproduct. If, however, you are a creative soul, Calgary Public Library has a new book that will cause you to look at cat hair in a brand new light.

Crafting with Cat Hair by Kaori Tsutaya shows many cute possibilities of what you can do with that abundant and free supply of cat hair. Like wool, it can be felted; however, it differs from wool in that it doesn’t have the strength or durability due to its texture.

The author provides step-by-step instructions for making little felted shapes that can be used to adorn scarves, hats and even book covers. You can make a furry little replica of your cat and frame it.

As well, there is practical advice with a yearly calendar indicating when you can harvest your greatest yield of fur and she answers questions such as what to do about cats that go outside.

Instead of groaning about the never ending clouds of hair, you can now imagine all the possibilities. Who knows – maybe if you have some not-so-creative friends with a kitty, they would gratefully share their supply as well. The possibilities and color combinations could be endless!

-Jan Millet

Jane’s Two Cents:

This curious little book is a wonderful example of what I love about the Library. When our PR guy says, “Everything You’re Into”, he’s not kidding.

Personally, I like the finger puppets and knickknack boxes. And the part that says no cats were harmed in the making of this book.

-Jane

Today's blog comes from Janet Millett, Central Library staff:

Here’s my dog Phoebe. She loves a good romp in the snow. However, when the snow is wet and sticky, her curls pick it up and it gets to the point where walking becomes an ordeal. Hence you see the dejected look on her face (despite our amusement!) Perhaps she knew that a bath was in store; it’s the only way to get rid of the ice balls in a timely manner.

It occurred to me that maybe a dog coat and booties would save us both a lot of grief. I’m always keen to take on some new projects as it’s great to have something to do on wintery nights. So with that in mind, I had a look at our catalogue.

Happily I found some great resources. Stylish Knits for Dogs: 36 Projects to Knit in a Weekend offers knitwear that you can customize to your hearts delight.

Pet Projects: the Animal Knits Bible shows you how to create whimsical party collars for your pooch as well as cozy cushions, pet beds and even a blanket for the birdcage.

Vogue Knits for Pets has many other inspirational ideas that would also look great in the home. A dozy-looking beagle lies on a very stylish Fair Isle dog bed. When you make it yourself, you can make sure that it co-ordinates with the drapes.

It’s fun to discover custom-designed solutions for all your pet’s accessory needs. And something to keep you occupied on those cold wintery nights.

Jan Millett

Dudley and Arthur

Meet Dudley and Arthur, my two granddogs. They live with my daughter Kate and her husband Andrew in a small house in Toronto. I have just returned from a very lovely visit with them.

Dudley is the newest addition to the family and, at one year old, he still exhibits puppy behaviour. If you take a good look at the pic below, you will see chewed edges on the carpet where they are romping. Their house has literally gone to the dogs; but it’s a happy departure.

The house is organized around their needs. Towels for mopping dirty paws and drooly jowls hang near the front door; leashes, dog food and dishes are in theDudley gets a belly rub. mud room at the back. A child's protective gate prevented damp noses in my face in the wee hours of the morning when I slept on their living room sofa. Because their house has been under renovation since they moved in, Kate is philosophical about mud and fur balls that come with "the boys".

Her relaxed approach to living with them reminds me again of Mary Randolph Carter’s book, A Perfectly Kept House is a Sign of a Misspent Life, which I reviewed a few blogs back. There are many pictures of fine rooms with animals splayed comfortably across favourite furniture and she talks about accommodating them.

Designer, Kimberley Seldon helps you to choose suitable upholstery and floor coverings. Kate (an architect) has posted some ideas about designing a new house with dogs in mind.

Animal House Style: Designing a Home to Share with Your Pets offers serious advice about living stylishly with four-legged family. Design for pet comfort and safety is considered, as well as the touchy topic of animal house smell.

Showdog Magazine provides light-hearted tips for decorating with dogs. For example, did you know that paw prints and nose smudges break up the glare and soften the light in the room? Or, stacked dog crates will pull the eye up and provide an illusion of height, while pet hair adds velvety texture to fabrics.

When all else fails, adjusting your attitude helps.

Jane, Central Library