Win a Cartoon Illustration of Your Fido

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

© Nate Fakes
Meet Whitley

Nate Fakes; remember that name. I'm starting to see it all over Facebook; he's getting around. Nate's work is such fun; did you see my review?

Today I'm going to offer up a heartwarming piece of art to 2 of you--your very own pets.  Nate will take your photos and create a memory for you that will last far beyond your pets' years with you. You'll receive an 8 x 10 hi res portrait (a $60 value!) to treasure as I do my Xena's portrait that is on the Rafflecopter below. 

Now if you just can't wait, you do have options. Visit Nate's site to see your choices and place your order. Say hi to Xena while you're there. As of today, she was still gracing the page linked here.

If you'd rather take your chances at winning, the Rafflecopter entry form is at the bottom of this post. It's super easy and I hope you'll enjoy the process of entering. Have fun with it! If you don't see the form below, simply click on the post title and it will reappear. It has a tendency to hide sometimes, but you can coax it back out with one click. 

Entries will be accepted through October 11 and the winners will be announced on the evening of Friday, October 12. Good luck to you all!

I have not been paid to review Nate's work, but did receive a .jpg of my dog, Xena, for review. The thoughts included in the review are my own. This offer is available to readers everywhere except where prohibited by law. No purchase is required to enter.

Your Pet in Cartoons?

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

© Nate Fakes
My Sweet Xena...Forever

Recently I was contacted by a cartoon artist, Nake Fakes, who was interested in sharing his talent with pet lovers. When I visited his site the first image I found was a dog that could easily have been my sweet Xena. Check out her image here and you'll see; they could have been twins!

Ever since losing Xena, I've wanted to have her image preserved in a more artistic way, so here was my opportunity. Nate illustrated Xena as you see above, capturing her essence with beautiful shades and shadows. I could stare at my girl all day, but fortunately still have Tanner and Oliver to cuddle with in reality.

Of course, Nate would love to create a cartoon of most any pet you may have. You'll find examples of a parrot, cat, a Toy Poodle and numerous others on his sites. He'll give you options like a watercolor, cartoon illustration or a pen and ink drawing with digital coloring. His sites have samples and options; you'll find your choices for ordering here. What a fun job, huh?!!

As a professional cartoonist and illustrator, Nate Fakes also has a soft side for animals. He has recently started a project with the ASPCA in Tampa Bay to help homeless pets, partly by donating 20% of his profits. When you order from him, he'll donate the funds to the Tampa Bay ASPCA or the shelter of your choice. 

You'll find fun photos, samples of Nates various types of work and more at his sites:

Nate Fakes
Cartoon Your Pet
Cartoon Your Pets on Facebook
@CartoonYourPets on Twitter

After you peruse these sites I know you'll be drooling over his work. Curious about why I'm reviewing it? You know the drill. There's a giveaway coming. Join me Thursday for your chance to immortalize your favorite pet.

Nate Fakes illustrated Xena as a sample for you to see, and me to review. I was not compensated to review his work or share my thoughts, and my opinions are my own. There is no purchase required to enter the giveaway that is coming.

The 12 Dogs of Christmas: Let the Caroling Begin!

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

This 12 dogs of Christmas graphic was produced by Pet365 - a UK stockist of brands like Hurtta and Hamish McBeth
These graphics from Pet365 are always fun to share. The humor and timeliness of this one made it a perfect hit for today, while everyone is busily preparing for their family holiday celebrations. Don't forget to include your pups!