We love animals - dogs, cats, hamsters, porcupines, it doesn't matter. It's why our four-legged friends are always welcome in our stores (on a leash, please!) and why every July we put a special emphasis on a variety of animal-themed events and organizations. This month's roster includes pet adoptions, craft projects for kids, presentations by the Desert Museum and Wildlife World Zoo, and even pet psychics. Check the Events Calendar for a full listing.

In addition, Bookmans Phoenix is putting a different spin on "Dog Days of Summer" with a Beat the Heat Family Fun Day on Saturday, July 25th, 1-4 p.m. We'll be recreating a stroll down the boardwalk with a caricature artist, kids activities, live music, giveaways, and free ice cream courtesy of Blue Bell.

We also encourage our customers to share with us their love of their pets - you could win a $50 gift certificate! Send us a photo of yourself with your best friend for our blog and, at the end of the month, we'll choose our three favorite photos. Those three owners (and pets, if you want to share the love) will receive a $50 gift certificate good at any of our locations. You can send us the photo two ways: attach it to an email or send a link to an online photo album (Flickr, Picasa, etc.) to heatherc@bookmans.com. (Be sure to include your name and the name of your pet!)