MSI Press Blog

  When many people hear the word Poodle , they picture an elegantly groomed show dog prancing around a competition ring. Yet beneath the distinctive appearance lies one of the world's most intelligent, athletic, and versatile dog breeds. The Standard Poodle is much more than a fashionable companion. It is a working dog, an athlete, a family member, and an exceptionally capable partner. Not Just a Fancy Dog The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three Poodle varieties, standing over 15 inches at the shoulder and often much taller. Despite its refined appearance, the breed was originally developed as a water retriever. In fact, the name "Poodle" comes from the German word Pudel , meaning "to splash in water." These dogs were bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, requiring intelligence, endurance, and strong swimming ability. Many of the traditional Poodle grooming styles originated for practical reasons. Hunters clipped parts of the coat to improve mobility i...

  RV travel looks, on the surface, like a dog’s dream: new smells, new trails, their humans close by, and a home that moves with them. But RVing with dogs has its own rhythms and challenges. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe, calm, and comfortable on the road. 1. Create a “Dog Zone” Inside the RV Dogs need a predictable space, even in a rolling home. Choose a spot where they can rest without being underfoot — a corner with their bed, blanket, or crate. Keep water accessible at all times; RV air can be dry. Use non‑slip mats so sudden braking doesn’t send them sliding. Store leashes, waste bags, and treats in one reachable place so you’re not hunting for them at every stop. A stable environment inside the RV helps dogs feel anchored, even when the scenery keeps changing. 2. Practice Short Drives Before the Big Trip Some dogs love motion; others tolerate it; a few dread it. Start with 10–20 minute drives to let them adjust to the RV’s sounds and vibrat...

  Today's publisher's pride is Travels with Elly by Larry MacDonald, which reached #136 in travel with pets books. Book description: Discover Canada like never before -- from a personal perspective, similar to John Steinbeck's view of America in his 1960 book Travels with Charley . The author travels from coast to coast in a trailer with his wife and pets, including their Standard Poodle, Elly, in order to gain a better understanding of his adopted country. Interspersed between descriptions of history, cultures, places, and icons are the author's reflections on various things such as Elly's antics, signage, ferries, political injustice, environmental issues, and animal instincts. To provide a canine's perspective, Elly reflects on things of interest to her, including cats, cows, and other critters...but especially cats! Where was Canada's first settlement? What is its prettiest town? When and where was its most devastating shipwreck? And who was its greatest ...