Hamster Cookies.

Using Veganomicon's (page 234) "Chewy Chocolate Raspberry Cookies."
I wanted to try and make these *Hamster* head shaped. With cranberry eyes and nose, coconut whiskers, they are almost too cute to eat. (almost...)





















Poor hamsters, they are the third most commonly used 'research animals.' They are bred as *commodities* and are treated inhumanely before being sold to pet stores in the same manner as dogs from "puppy mills" It is a sad fact that the vast majority of pet stores acquire the animals they sell from "mills" rather than responsible breeders. This means the animals are often not adequately taken care of, as these stores are trying to obtain the cheapest "stock" possible so that they can do one thing: make a profit.

In 2006-2007 Peta exposed a Manchester, Connecticut PetSmart for their direct participation in cruelty small animals.
http://www.petsmartcruelty.com/investigation_manchester.asp

Both PetSmart and Petco have obtained their animals from Rainbow World Exotics in Hamilton, Texas, an undercover expose' of their conduct can be viewed here:
http://getactive.peta.org/campaign/petsmart_investigation

Most people when I talk to them about my work with our local "Hamster rescue" say one of two things:
'I did not realise there were rescues for rodents' or 'Why is there a need for a hamster rescue?'
Not many people understand how many hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits and ferrets end up in their local (county or rodent specific) shelters and rescues each year.

Adorable hamsters are frequently bought on impulse when parents can't resist their child's pleading. The hamster may not initally cost much, but supplies add up quickly.
Other times the child's interest in caring for the animal wanes. Then these little guys find themselves living in shelters.

To anyone who is looking for a little rodent friend, "Pie" (who herself is a *rescue*)
...and I, ask you to please take a look at Petfinder.com or check out your local shelter or rescue before taking that trip to the pet store.
Many shelters have several hamsters at a time who are all looking for loving homes, so there is a good chance you will be able to find yourself a new friend.
Most shelters have a small adoption fee to take home one their animals, but the money you are spending supports animal rescue and care rather than going to profit for a pet store or towards supporting cruelty.

Seitan Chops

Inspired by:
Isa's entry for the Iron Chef (Ginger/Apple) challenge. I wanted to try the Seitan Chops.

The chickpea flour subbing for the nutritional yeast, really is perfect! These had a tender yet 'toothy' texture. I would be proud to take these anywhere. I think they will make a dinner appearance somewhere over the coming holiday months.
For dessert (and because I had 2 Cortland apples going *mealy* and no-one wants to eat them then) I made
Phyllo Apple/Oat filleds.

1 & 1/2C Diced apples

3/4C Turbinado sugar

1/2C W/W Pastry flour

1/2C Oats

1/3C Softened Earth Balance

(Cinnamon and ground nutmeg to taste)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

(Usual assembly for phyllo triangles)

Bake at 375 until golden