What’s goin’ on today, furpals!? It’s another GORGEOUS day in San Jose — but I’m not gonna get too excited, who knows what tomorrow will be like… maybe clouds? maybe rain? We’ll seee…. and I’ll be here to tell you all about it! And other stuff too, of course, weather-talk is super boring after a while, right? Like now.. I’m bored! Onto some doggy news…

Breaking news in the science world, right now, buddies! I read the coolest headline today: Dog Slobber Could Be the Next Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment. *SPIN* Isn’t that super exciting? I mean, I’m a little confooozed on how it works, but our loving licks and kisses that most people hate may save dog and human lives? That’s crazy!! Here’s the article:

The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and the Van Andel Research Institute (VARI), developed the Canine Hereditary Cancer Consortium, to understand why people and their pets get sick. The study used saliva, blood and tumor samples of dogs volunteered by private pet owners for testing in hopes that by studying canine cancer, oncologists can determine the cause of human cancers.

“Rare diseases in humans also show up in dogs. By studying the DNA of canines, we expect to more quickly discover the genomic causes of disease and more quickly find ways to better treat dogs, and people,” said Dr. Mark Neff, director of the new TGen-VARI Program for Canine Health and Performance. The testing will be animal-safe, and is approved by the American Kennel Club and Morris Animal Foundation. Funding will be supported by private donors, and by a $4.3 million dollar federal stimulus grant.

Cancer is the cause of death for nearly 50 percent of all dogs older than 10-years-old.

“We’re proud to be part of such an innovative approach that fully supports our mission of providing total lifetime care for pets, and one that will offer hope to people and dogs who are suffering from these illnesses,” said Phil Francis, executive chairman of PetSmart.

Wow… I’m speechless! Maybe I should lick Mommy’s face more often so she doesn’t get sick — and I have an excuse now, cuz I’m saving her life (possibly)! Ohhhh, science, you’re so interesting and smart and cool.. Can’t wait to hear what they have to say once the research is all done! (Pawz crossed, it’s all good news!) I’m going to read more science news now!

until next time, furpals!
xoxo, touleh

Beginning as a web based, upscale pet e-boutique, touleh sets to open its doors in downtown San Mateo, CA, to cater to local pet owners who can’t resist to spoil their pampered pooches.

San Mateo, CA, (Local) July 28, 2008 — A nice leather collar, or perhaps a plush dress was considered dressing up your dog years ago, but times have changed. With high-end pet fashions to suit any social event, a chic pooch can now be as fashionable as its owner.

touleh, formerly found only online, will now open its doors in downtown San Mateo, CA, on August 2^nd, 2008, to cater to local pet owners who can’t resist spoiling their chic pooches.“Our #1 selling items are clothes; there is no doubt about that,” states owner Shima Deilami. “Pretty much, we have an outfit for any occasion. Many of our clientele are young to middle-aged women who don’t have kids; their pooch is their child and they bring them everywhere. So in return, they are dressing and accessorizing them so that their chic pooch is as fashionable as the owner.”

Ms. Deilami states that the boutique’s designer clothing lines top the “must have” list, particularly styles from Chrome Bones and Puchi to name a few, which are designers for the celebrity pets.But the pampering doesn’t stop there. touleh offers a large selection of designer pet carriers, dog shoes, stunning jewelry and collars, luxury toys, designer inspired plush shoe toys, plus so many more. Also featured is spa essentials such as shampoos, perfumes/colognes, John Paul Mitchell spa products for pets — don’t forget to check out the luxury plush spa bathrobes for after the primping — bowls and feeders, luxurious pet beds, gourmet treats and pastries and organic food selection.

“It’s always an honor when I receive a call from the press or get stopped by a touleh fan on the street,” Ms. Deilami states.  The recent exposure has prompted a recent photo shoot by acclaimed photographer, maleknaz.  Maleknaz will also be available onsite for the touleh grand opening to take one-of-a-kind photos of the first 50 chic pooches that make a chic appearance.

With its enormous selection of luxury pet products, touleh also will extend its product line to such services as gift cards, custom orders, a puppy gift registry, private shopping appointments, gift wrapping, pooch gift baskets and custom fittings. Friendly pets are also welcomed.

For more information on this “must see” pet boutique, visit touleh at 311 2^nd Street, San Mateo, CA, or online at www.touleh.com.