Sunday, August 17, 2008

Millie's First Birthday

Help us celebrate Millie's First Birthday!


On August 20, 2008, Millie will be turning one year old (my, how time flies) and hopes to see everyone on her special day. She'll be passing out free "pupcakes" to all her furry friends! So, stop in from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to pick up one!

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Booming Business

The pet industry is an ever expanding business. New products, services and necessities pop up seemingly overnight. It can be quite overwhelming even to the seasoned pet owner. Because of this, we are offering a list of recommendations of professional pet services all of which we have had positive, personal experiences. All of these services are provided by locally owned businesses who put your pet first. We do not make these recommendations lightly as we know how important your pets are to you and your family.

DOG DAYCARE
Arbor Dog Daycare - Arbor Dog Daycare is a great solution for dog owners who are away during the day – while their dogs remain at home without social interaction or activity. For happy and content dogs, Arbor Dog Daycare will provide your dogs plenty of exercise and socialization. Arbor Dog Daycare is a large, cage free facility located on a 6+ acre lot just north of Briarwood Mall / Eisenhower Parkway on South Main Street. There are three large indoor play areas to allow socialization based upon both size and/or temperament. All the dogs are continually supervised by well trained and caring staff.

SUPPLIES
Manits Pet Supply - The pet foods that Mantis Pet Supply carry are all free of corn, wheat, soy, by-products, artificial preservatives, and other harmful ingredients. They are very knowledgeable about what should and shouldn't be in your pet's food and are more than willing to walk you through the various brands they stock. Your pet’s health and nutrition is their number one goal. Mantis Pet Supply would like your pet(s) to have the best nutrition possible. The ingredient lists of the foods they carry include:
• Chicken, Lamb, Beef.... Meal • Deboned... chicken, Lamb, Beef, etc. • Brown Rice • Potato and Sweet potato • Oatmeal • Antioxidants • Pre- and Probiotics • Enzymes

TRAINING & BEHAVIOR ISSUES
Positive Way Dog Training - At Positive Way Dog Training, they pride themselves with using the most current and up-to-date training methods available. Training of all species of animals has evolved greatly over the years and given way to what animals behaviorist and trainers now commonly call Positive Reinforcement Training Methods. This positive approach relies on telling animals that they "got it right!" by rewarding their behavior with things that they find enjoyable. Services include Polite Puppy, Basic Manners, Advanced/Canine Good Citizen Training, Agility, Rally and many more great activities in which to social, train, and enjoy your dog.

Currey's Family Pet Care - Their philosophy: Dog training is an Art not a science, many trainers and facilities develop a training method. Dogs will always be dogs and humans will continually try to make their dog into a furry person. I truly believe that all dog problems can be fixed, mostly because your dog doesn't see what they are doing as a problem. Humans created the dog's issues and Humans can change the issues, we are here to show you how.

About Dogs, LLC - About Dogs LLC is dedicated to educating people about dogs. They currently provide in-home private training and behavioral consultation services. They are committed to providing you with the highest quality of services to enhance that special relationship with your canine companion.

VETERINARY SERVICES
Animal Medical Center of Saline - The Animal Medical Center of Saline was founded in 1982 with a dual purpose: to provide the best possible care to pets and peace of mind to their owners. They have always strived to build and maintain a reputation for excellence and satisfaction amongst their customers, and are extremely proud of the results. The Animal Medical Center of Saline is currently affiliated with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and a current member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as well as the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA).

Petcare Animal Clinic - The clinic is dedicated to providing total health care for pets to assist you in reaching your goal of optimum wellness for your companion. Achieving true health requires treating and resolving issues of mind, body, and spirit. A well adjusted spirit and mind in a sound body is the objective. They will do their best to treat you and your pet as they would want to be treated.

TOYS
Little Monsters - Little Monsters offers a variety of dog and cat toys that are both durable and fun. Dog toys come with a squeak or can be squeak-free with varying degrees of toughness. Goodies for the kitties include catnip and rattle toys which will keep you cat entertained for hours.

RESCUES
The Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and Rescue Group - The Buster Foundation is a 501©3 charitable rescue group dedicated to helping re-home surrendered and stray pit bull and bull breed mix dogs. They are a group of individuals that has come to realize that the pit bull desperately needs a better educated and understanding public so that the misconceptions society has come to believe about them is finally put in it's proper perspective. They are committed to placing these spectacular and loving canines in educated, responsible and loving homes.

Friends of Michigan Animals Rescue - FMAR is a 501©3 rescue for dogs and cats whose mission is to protect animals and residents by promoting a healthy and safe environment for all. FMAR is located on almost 7 acres with dog kennels and cat communities. They are in the process of building a new facility to accommodate more homeless animals and hold seminars, clinics and other community resources.

Greyhounds of Eastern Michigan - GreyHounds of Eastern MI, or GEM is a non-profit volunteer organization whose mission is fourfold: educate the public and raise awareness about the availability and suitability of retired racing Greyhounds as pets; find loving and qualified homes for the Greyhounds entrusted to our care; provide ongoing support to those who adopt Greyhounds from GEM or any other group, and promote harmony and cooperation between ALL segments of the worldwide Greyhound community.

Humane Society of Huron Valley - HSHV's mission is to support the loving, responsible care of all animals in the community by ensuring proper, nurturing care, for the animals in our shelter; placing all adoptable animals in loving homes; reducing pet overpopulation; providing education and outreach to the community and stopping animal cruelty.

FUN
Swift Run Dog Park - The park is an outdoor space established for dog owners to allow their dogs to legally run free off-leash.

Cavalier Pup Art - They strive to capture special portraits that reflect your pet's personality; at play and during their more reserved moments. The result is a heartwarming portrait you can cherish and proudly display.

Ollie Photography - Ollie Photography specializes in the pet and people portraiture. Ollie has partnered with local rescue groups in an effort to offered displaced animals a better chance at finding a forever home and has been chosen by the ASPCA as a featured photographer.

Dave Lewinski Photography - Dave Lewinski has photographed a series of local celebs, locations and animals and has been featured in area magazines and websites. He has also rescued several dogs and placed them in loving homes.

Little Monsters

Sunday, August 3, 2008

A barking success

It was a warm, sunny day when the official "Leash Cutting" ceremony took place at the official grand opening of Swift Run Dog Park.





Lots of dogs and their owners were there to help us celebrate the happy occasion. We made some new friends and saw some old ones too. Our treats were a hot commodity and we were thrilled to make many a dog smile!



Check out the article Ann Arbor News wrote about the event. We hope to see our friends at the park soon and wish Swift Run continued success.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Grand Opening Celebration at Swift Run Dog Park


Swift Run Dog Park will be having a "Leash Cutting" Celebration this Friday, August 1, 2008. The off-leash park offers 10 acres of fenced-in running room with areas for small and large dogs. The party kicks off at 2 p.m. with door prizes and lots of free samples. We'll be there of course and are proud to be sponsors of this great event. Look for the Biscuit Co. to grab a sampler bag of our organic, all natural treats baked right in downtown Ann Arbor! We have also donated two Puppy Party Packages to the door prizes. These include a large, bone-shaped cake and 8 party favors for your pooch's friends.
To obtain a Swift Run permit for your dog, please complete this registration form and return it to the City of Ann Arbor Clerk's Office.Please see map for location and park layout.

Monday, July 28, 2008

It's easy being green


Did you know that we carry pet toys and beds you can feel good about? West Paw Design has a line of sustainable pet items made from recycled soda bottles. That's right, soda bottles! Eco Nap beds, available in cat and dog sizes, are as soft as fleece and has stuffing made from recycled fibers with West Paw's Intelliloft (TM) design. 
Your pup can also enjoy a turtle, salamander, bone or other fun toy to match the bed. And West Paw Design didn't forget the kitties. They, too, can enjoy a recycled toy filled with USDA Certified Organic Catnip!
For those dogs who are tough on their toys, we have West Paw's Zogoflex(R) which is guaranteed to last. These guys are made of non-toxic, FDA compliant material that creates virtually no waste during production. To top it off, it can be recycled as well! The Hurley, Huck, Zisc, and new Tux can outlast any chewer. But, if your dog is one of the few that can chomp through these tough toys, West Paw offers a one-time product replacement. Please click here for details.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Ann Arbor Street Art Fair

It's that time of year again. Time for the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair!

The Art Fair runs during July 16-19 and features almost 200 artists, plus food vendors, activities and performances. There's certainly something for everyone, including your pets! In addition to our bakery located at 209 S Fourth Avenue, we will also have a booth set up on E. Liberty St in front of the new, upcoming site of our friends The Cupcake Station. At our booth, we will have pre-packaged treats such as our two most popular flavors Cheese Fries and Barkvarian Pretzels. Or stop in the bakery and check out 18 other flavors that are fresh baked with organic and all natural ingredients. As always, there will be a selection of fun, decorated biscuits for a special "treat" for your dog. So, stop over for some culture and dog biscuits!

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

For those dog in need

Do you have any collars or toys your puppy has outgrown? Or some old towels and blankets that you no longer need? A kitty bed that's left untouched in the corner? If so, then drop off your donations at our bakery! We have a bin just inside our door for your gently used items that could benefit animals who are currently without their forever homes. There is a jar on our counter for any monetary donations as well. 

The first bin filled up quickly and was given to the Humane Society of Huron Valley. They were most appreciative to our customers who generously donated their items. We're sure the doggies were equally happy! The bin is well on it's way to overflowing again, so if you have a favorite rescue group or organization that are in need of items that may help them out then please let us know. 

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Vote For The Best!

We have been nominated for WDIV-TV's Vote For The Best! There's some stiff competition this year, so your vote is very important to us. We are listed in the category of Pets/Pet Supplies. Please click here to vote!

The Biscuit Co., as you know, uses only organic, all natural ingredients and from local suppliers as much as possible. For instance, our flour is ground fresh for us in Eaton Rapids and our peanut butter is also fresh from Bay City. Everything is made right downtown in our bakery which features 20 flavors, plus a variety of speciality treats decorated with yogurt, carob and/or peanut butter. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff, Indiana, Lucky and Millie, will suggest their favorites and answer any questions you may have.


These are just a few of the reasons why we think we're the best. We hope you agree with us and vote!
P.S. Tell your friends!

2008 4 the Best Nominated: Best Pet Supplies in Detroit

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Poco was adopted! Let's get Dallas a home now! - UPDATE: Dallas was adopted!!

Yay for Poco! He was adopted this weekend and is now in his forever home. Congrats to him!


Next up is DALLAS. This frisky Beagle is an 8 year young stray who weighs about 32 lbs (all of it Beagle curiosity and energy!). He's a sweet guy who likes kids and who is anxious to find a new family to love! As with all of our sponsored dogs, when adopted Dallas will receive:

Arbor Dog Daycare: 5 days of Dog Daycare (a $105 value)
Arbor Biscuit Company: $50 Shopping Spree
Mantis Pet Supply: $50 Shopping Spree
Petcare: Free Holistic Consultation with Dr. Smith (a $50 value)

Friday, June 27, 2008

New Sponsored Dog!

Cooper, our first sponsored dog at the Humane Society of Huron Valley has been adopted! Congratulations on your new forever home, Cooper! (P.S. Don't forget to stop in for your shopping spree!)

The Local Dog Network have a new sponsored hound dog named POCO! He is a 6 year old Beagle who is in the shelter because of a divorce. Poco has been patiently awaiting his forever home since April. Like any good pooch, he loves his toys, walks and curling up on the sofa!

When Poco is adopted, this lucky dog will receive, courtesy of the Local Dog Network:
Arbor Dog Daycare: 5 days of Daycare ($105 value)
Arbor Biscuit Company: $50 Shopping Spree
Mantis Pet Supply: $50 Shopping Spree
Petcare: Free Holistic Consultation with Dr. Smith (a $50 value)

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

World Wide Biscuits!

First, we decided to take over the Midwest. Now, it's the internet!

Our website is up and running. Mostly. Our flavored treats as well as our decorated treats are now available for sale on our website at www.annarborbiscuit.com. Over the coming weeks, we will be adding our cakes and confections in addition to a wide selection of toys, collars, beds and other canine and feline necessities. Keep checking back for more goodies.

Click on the "email us" bone and let us know you want on our email list, The Pack. As members of The Pack, you will be privy to new flavors, special sale nights, coupons and offers. It's a great way to keep your four-legged family member in the know.

We also have a myspace page! If you do too, we would love to be your friend. This has been a fantastic way for us to meet other pet lovers interested in healthy dog treats, animal rescue groups, and "friends" who really have become good friends! And if you're extra 'net savvy, we have a Facebook page. Become our fan!

If you thought that was it, it's not. Check out our Flickr page to see photos of our events, treats, and favorite customers. And last, but not least, is our Zazzle Store. If you need stamps or a t-shirt featuring Millie, then this is the place for you!

That's it...for now. You were warned we were taking over the internet!

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Local Dog Network

We are proud to announce that we, along with our friends from Arbor Dog Daycare & Mantis Pet Supplies, are members of the Local Dog Network! 

The Local Dog Network is a group of locally owned and operated businesses, not franchises. The monies earned by these organizations goes to employing local residents as well as supporting the local economy. Not just any company can become part of the Local Dog Network - these businesses are researched and understood to be operated with the highest level of integrity. They are also strong advocates of the health and well-being of all dogs and support local dog rescue efforts. 

All members of the Local Dog Network have chosen to help support the Humane Society of Huron Valley. 
Cooper, the dog pictured, is a dog currently at the Humane Society that needs to find a home. Each of the Local Dog Network members is donating services to the family lucky enough to adopt the Local Dog Network sponsored dog. Donations are as follows:

Arbor Dog Daycare: One week of Dog Daycare (a $105 value)
Ann Arbor Biscuit Co.: $50 Shopping Spree
Mantis Pet Supply: $50 Shopping Spree
Petcare: Free Holistic Consultation (a $50 value)

Monday, June 16, 2008

I Love My Pet Expo


Join us for the premiere of the I Love My Pet Expo at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds at 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road in Ann Arbor! The event takes place on Saturday, June 28, 2008 from 10 am to 7 pm. There is a $5 entry fee, so stop at the Biscuit Co. to purchase your tickets. Pets and children under 10 are free! Please be sure your pet is leashed, well-behaved and people friendly. 

There will be pony rides, fly ball competitions, a kid's corral as well as food, prizes and shopping. Enjoy reptile magic with Mark Rosenthal, rescue a special pet, and hold, groom, or feed all kinds of animals! We'll be there with our friends from Arbor Dog Daycare and The Buster Foundation!

For more information, please visit The Ann Arbor News.
Hope to see you there!

Monday, June 2, 2008

We plan to take over the Midwest!

Last fall, a group of travel writers descended upon Ann Arbor. Their job was to share what a wonderful, exciting town A2 is. And they've done their job well. We found an article today in the Daily Herald, a Chicago newspaper, that talks about the Biscuit Co.! Imagine our excitement when we saw that all of Chicago and the surrounding area were reading about Lucky & Millie. They certainly deserve a raise!

Click here for the article: Finding art, action, and a little magic in Ann Arbor

We sure hope the fairies stop by one night to build us a doggie door!

Monday, May 26, 2008

Taste of Ann Arbor

On June 1, 2008, Main Street in downtown Ann Arbor transforms into a tasty food festival! Taste of Ann Arbor and the Rest of the World kicks off at 11 a.m. featuring bite sized portions of culinary favorites from over 30 restaurants. Though dogs are not permitted at this event, Ann Arbor Biscuit Co. will be there so you can take home a "doggie bag" to your four-legged friend! We'll have prepackaged favorites like Cheese Fries & Pretzels as well as other decorated culinary delights your dog will want to get his paws on. The event is free to attend but tickets for taste are $0.50 and can be purchased throughout the day. Music, dance, theater performances & kids activities will also take place during this fun-filled event! Check out Main Street Ann Arbor for more details. Hope to see you there!

Saturday, December 15, 2007

10 Days Until Christmas!

It's really hard to believe that there are only 10 days left before Christmas! The dogs of Ann Arbor have apparently been very good this year, because we're working extra hard to be sure we can keep up with the demand for both the crunchy and decorated treats. Don't forget the "bad" dogs too - even if they only deserve a lump of coal, we've got you covered! (Our black lab treats have activated charcoal in them.)

For you last minute shoppers, we'll be open from noon to 5 on Christmas Eve, but we'll be closed on both Christmas Day and the 26th. And for the lucky pets who will be ringing in the New Year in style, we'll be open from noon to 5 on New Year's Eve as well (and then closed on New Year's Day).

A wonderful thanks to all of the fantastic people and pets who stopped in during the Moonlight Madness event! We had such fun seeing all of you who were "up all night" with us. We're already looking forward to next year.

Monday, December 3, 2007

Moonlight Madness!

We're sorry about not updating last week, but many of the people and creatures in the house were under the weather. We're back in the swing of things, and getting ready for an exciting week!

First of all, this week brings the start of Hanukkah. A very happy holiday to those who celebrate. It seems like now that it's the first week of December, everyone is truly starting to get into the holiday spirit. We've got a lot of really neat toys and treats in stock, especially for the winter holidays.

On Friday (the 7th), we'll be taking part in the downtown's Moonlight Madness event. We'll open at 10 am, and will remain open until midnight. Stop in and take advantage of special sales. In addition, if you're a member of the Preferred Pets mailing list, you will receive a coupon with additional savings. If you're not on the mailing list yet, but would like to be, drop us a note at annarborbiscuit [at] gmail [dot] com, and we'll sign you up.

We've been taking pictures of some of the great pets who have stopped into the store, and today we got a great picture from Fletcher. We'd love to add pictures of your pets to our flickr account, so send us those pictures!

Monday, November 19, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wow - time is certainly flying this fall! It seems like just a few weeks ago that we were so excited to see everyone in their costumes, trick or treating! And now, this week, we'll sit down and give thanks.

What are we giving thanks for this year? Most of all, that we've found so much support for the Biscuit Co. In less than six months we've confirmed that Ann Arbor is a town full of people who love their pets, and agree with our philosophy that pets are family. We're thankful for our neighbors and our regulars - people we didn't know a short while ago, and who now know exactly who Lucky and Millie are by sight! We're thankful for the friends we've made, and for all of you who have supported us. May this be the first Thanksgiving of many!

We truly do count our blessings that such great animals come by the store so regularly. Many of you do know our pets - Lucky, Millie, Indy, Smoker and Laudie - and we've come to know yours as well. We'd like to invite you to send us in pictures of your pets enjoying treats or toys that you've purchased at the store, so that we can add them to our Flickr set - "Animals We Love." Just attach the photo to an email, and send it to us at annarborbiscuit at gmail dot com.

And can you believe that this Friday is "Black Friday?" We're deep in preparations for the upcoming winter holidays - we've got some really fun things already in the store, and more on the way! So when you write out your list of who's been naughty & who's been nice - don't forget all of those good four legged furry family members, who deserve to have their stockings filled with something other than a lump of coal!

Monday, November 12, 2007

Cats deserve to be spoiled too!

When we first decided to open our store, we were very careful to express to our friends and family that we were opening a pet treat bakery. Not a dog treat bakery. A pet treat bakery. Because we know that dogs aren't the only kind of pets that people are passionate about.

We think that a lot of people are still under the impression that we're all about dogs, and only about dogs. Part of that misconception might be because Lucky and Millie are with us at the store everyday, and they're very obviously representing dogs as pets. But we're cat lovers too. When we first moved to Michigan, we were surprised to open the door to our new house and to find out that "the cats came with the house." That's how Smoker and Laudie joined our family. And if you think that our dogs are living the high life as treat and toy testers, you should see our cats - they don't even have to get up and go to work in the morning!

When you enter the store, just look to your right and there is a wall of cat items. Every day we have four kinds of organic treats - beef, chicken, seafood and catnip. Cat treats can be purchased by the dozen or by the ounce - and an ounce lasts a surprising amount of time (even with our spoiled girls!) We also have a variety of cat toys - happily tested by our girls for durability and playability. When we look for toys to stock, we look for companies that use all natural materials and organic catnip. We also like our cat toys to vary with the seasons - check back often to see what's new as the holidays progress.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Product Spotlight - Tuffie Toys



When we first opened, one of the things we kept hearing over and over again was that people had dogs who liked to destroy toys. Our dogs do it too - Lucky will work quietly and methodically until she's taken the eyes, or nose, or squeaker, off of any toy we give her. You should see some of the Frankenstein-esque toys we have around the house - toy carcasses tied together to squeeze every last bit of fun out of them possible.

We've been just as interested in finding toys that are sturdy, and can withstand even the most determined destructive dogs. So we've been really excited to discover Tuffie Toys - they're among the most durable toys we've ever come across. They're made from a layer of soft fleece, two layers of nylon, and a layer of PVC. They're assembled with seven seams, and then a layer of nylon coats the stitching. The squeakers are embedded in a safety pocket, nice for those dogs who zero in on the squeaker and just won't let it go. In the store we've been calling them "Tiger Toys" since the company did some of their market testing on Tigers in zoos - and even they couldn't destroy these toys!

Well, when we heard that even a tiger couldn't destroy the toys, we decided that we had to put them to the test ourselves. We all remember how sharp puppy teeth are? So we gave Millie, our official toy tester, one of the octopuses and let her have at it. Stop in and see the results - the toy still looks like new, and Millie was exhausted. Right now we've got all of these toys featured in our window, so give them a peak (or a squeak) and see what you think. So far we've been very pleased with their longevity (and that they tire Millie out...)