American Stuffers: My brush with reality television

Have you heard about the new Animal Planet reality television show American Stuffers?  While it may sound like it’s a show about my unhealthy eating habits, in actuality,  it’s a reality show that follows the family of Thom’s nephew Daniel, who is a taxidermist here in Arkansas.  He not only does traditional taxidermy for animals such as deer, fish, and other wild life, he specializes in pet preservation– preserving peoples beloved pets for an eternity of continued love and togetherness.

The show follows Daniel, his wife LaDawn, their sons, and their quirky cast of employees as they go about their daily business of stuffing animals.  American Stuffers premieres this Thursday, January 5 at 9 pm {CST}.

Here’s a sneak peek:

Way back in April, Thom and I had the opportunity to hang out “on set” {aka: their home} with Daniel and LaDawn as they celebrated LaDawn’s birthday.  Of course, the cameras were rolling.

The experience was surreal.  Reality television takes a lot of work {and we were there for just a few short hours}.

I was asked to help with a little cake decorating. If only I had known beforehand, I could have brought my supplies.  Instead, I was filmed rolling out fondant with a small plastic cup.  It didn’t turn out so well.  Martha would definitely be disappointed with me.

I certainly hope that’s edited out. Yikes. {and btw…I had exactly 15 minutes to get ready for this event and 11 minutes were spent fretting about my only clean shirt: a blue & white striped shirt}.

It was a really fun day and it’s been exciting to follow Daniel & LaDawn as they live out this crazy adventure.    

If you’re interested in having your pet preserved, check out their web page Xtreme Taxidermy or connect with them on Facebook.

Read more about American Stuffers here.
Connect with American Stuffers on Facebook.
See more clips here.

Check out the episode guide for a quick glance at what’s to come.  The episode we were were present for will air on February 2, 9 pm {CST}. Here’s the description from Animal Planet:

THE DOG NAMED PRECIOUS Premiering Thursday, February 2, 10 PM e/p The owners of a dog named Precious come to the shop. What Daniel discovers during the preservation process is pretty shocking. At the same time, Daniel begins the process of preserving Jack the cat for its teenage owner. The heartbroken teen is having a difficult time letting go of the cat and her frequent visits to the shop worry Daniel. To make matters worse, Daniel’s in hot water when he realizes that he’s got 24 hours to plan a surprise party for LaDawn’s 36th birthday. He wrangles Fred, Joseph and Dixie to help with the party; but when they get her age wrong, they wonder if LaDawn will see the humor.

Now taking requests for autographs!  And, if it’s not mine you want…I may be able to reach “the talent.”