We are having a glorious week.  A few days ago we found out that our blog, yes this blog, was selected as a finalist for the BlogPaws 2017 Nose-to-Nose Pet Blogging and Social Media Awards in the “Best New Pet Blog” category.  Cue the confetti!

BlogPaws is the first and original social media network and conference designed by and for pet bloggers and pet social media influencers.  They hosted their first pet-friendly social media and marketing conference in 2010 and have grown annually into the biggest social media event and conference of its kind with attendees from all over the world.

The winners in each of the 14 categories will be announced in an exclusive red-carpet ceremony at the BlogPaws Annual Conference, taking place May 18th through May 20th in beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  Here is the link to the finalists in all 14 categories.

Bark and Biscuits is one of four blogs nominated for “Best New Pet Blog”.  The 3 other blogs listed are Hami In Miami,  Happy-Go-Doodle and Cat Lady Alley.  After visiting all 3 blogs, I feel truly honored and appreciative to be mentioned among such a talented, creative and intelligent group of people.  I would like to take a moment and share these wonderful blogs with you. 

Hami In Miami

Hami in Miami is a blog about a Scottish Terrier named Hamilton Barkley living in Miami, Florida.  If you have never been to Miami before, this blog will make you want to go.  It is an entertaining blog and a fantastic read.  Catch a glimpse of landmarks, beaches, restaurants and beyond as Hamilton fills your screen.  This pooch really lives a posh life and is beautifully documented with outstanding photography, as he should be.  Hamilton is quite the looker! Just check out those pearly whites!

Happy-Go-Doodle

Happy-Go-Doodle is the destination for feel-good quotes, quips and cuteness for people who love dogs and believe they bring out the best in us.  Inspired by Chloe, a happy-go-lucky goldendoodle, the blog celebrates and nurtures the bond between pets and the people who love them.  Through smile-bringing photography paired with positive messages, they hope to share as much joy with others as Chloe shares with everyone she meets.  Why? They believe the world needs more uplifting media that inspires people to laugh, smile, and FETCH JOY™ more often.

Cat Lady Alley

Cat Lady Alley is a beautifully designed blog with stunning graphics meant to inspire your inner cat lady.  Rachel, the woman behind Cat Lady Alley writes about new and inspiring finds, tips and stories for cat lovers.  She is also the founder and blogger behind the award-nominated blog Three Chatty Cats, dedicated to highlighting cat rescue groups and their life-saving efforts. Both of her blogs will keep you feeling purrr-fect!

Please take a moment and check out these blogs.  We are all very new and appreciate the support.  Additionally, you can find these blogs on social media so be sure to give them a follow!

Photos by Beau Pearson and Luke Isley

In December of 2016, I created Bark and Biscuits as a way to share my passion for dogs with others.  I have been a ballet dancer my whole life.  My training began at the age of four years old and I knew from the very first class that I wanted to dedicate my life to it.  I would train for up to 7 hours per day, 6 days a week, sometimes 7.  When I turned 18, I auditioned for my first professional ballet company, Ballet West in Salt Lake City, Utah and got the job.  Moving from the east coast to the land of snow and mountains was a big change for me.  I danced there my entire career, 13 years and performed roles I only dreamed about as a child here and abroad.  It seriously was a dream job.   When I “retired” from dancing full-time, I was faced with a difficult decision.

What the heck do I do now?

Following my passion for ballet, I began teaching and choreographing and still do this today.  I love working with young dancers and passing on the knowledge I have learned throughout my career.

Since I only teach ballet in the evenings, a door of opportunity opened up for me.  It allowed me time to focus on my other love – dogs.  That is how Bark and Biscuits came about.  My dachshund Rocket has been the inspiration for this blog.  I had this fear that leaving my career as a ballerina would leave me feeling empty and unable to find something I was truly passionate about.  In addition to teaching young dancers, this blog, with the support of my husband, has filled that void for me.

“My goal for this blog is to connect, learn, grow and share my passion for dogs with others.”

Thank you so much for being a part of our journey.  Please say hello, I love meeting new people.  A special thank you to BlogPaws for bringing pet enthusiasts from all over the world together and for providing the tools and resources to help us succeed!

Please follow along by subscribing to our blog! As my gift to you, get “The Ultimate Guide To Traveling With Your Dog” for FREE when you sign up. xo