Category: Pets

10 Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks

The long 4th of July weekend is a great time to watch fireworks. From your own backyard to grand-scale community events, fireworks are a major part of the 4th of July celebration. The booms, bangs, and whistles are part of the night’s festivities. Unfortunately, the loud noises cause anxiety in many pets (and humans too). Does your dog get upset when the vibrant colors light up the sky?

The loud continuous booming noises are frightening for some dogs (and cats). Dogs may bark, try to hide, or get sick over the unfamiliar sounds Taking steps before the start of the fireworks may help ease your pets’ nerves.

Photo by Charles Roth on Pexels.com

How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks

Being prepared is the best way to help your dog through the firework celebrations.

  1. Research: Check your community’s page on social media or website to learn about the time and dates of the fireworks in your area. Keep in mind, that some communities host fireworks for more than one night.
  2. Ask Your Neighbors: Send your neighbors a quick text or call to find out if they are doing any fireworks this year. Often people host BBQs with added fireworks in the evening. The smaller fireworks often make a whistling or popping noises. The sounds may be just as scary for your dog as the larger booming firework displays.
  3. Consult A Professional: If you know the negative effects fireworks have on your dog, voice your concerns with your pet’s veterinarian. Under some circumstances, your vet may prescribe a light sedative to help your dog get through the 4th of July festivities. The sedative relaxes your dog. When prescribing any type of medication, staying with your dog is essential.
  4. Spend the Night at Home: The 4th of July weekend is a time for numerous activities, gatherings, and celebrations. If your pet gets scared over fireworks, stay home. Do not take your dog to watch the fireworks. Instead, plan to spend the night at home with your favorite furry companion. Your pet will be more comfortable with you at home.
  5. Close Windows and Doggy Doors: If your dog is scared, he or she may attempt to run. Keep all the windows closed and secure the doggy door until after the fireworks show is over.
  6. Go to an Inner Room: Depending on the layout of your home, go to a room where the fireworks sound mute.
  7. Turn Up Familiar Noises: Play your favorite music or binge-watch a television series. Turn the volume up to cover the outdoor noises. Turn on fans to help mute the noises from the fireworks. Familiar noises provide comfort to your pet.
  8. Be Sympathetic: Give your dog extra attention. Constantly reassure your dog that everything is good. Your dog will love all the extra hugs, petting, and cuddling.
  9. Take an Early Walk: Before the fireworks begin, spend extra time outdoors. Go for a long walk or stay longer at the dog park. If your dog is tired, he or she may sleep during the noises.
  10. Go for a Drive: Does your dog like car rides? Go for a long drive. Avoid the fireworks altogether.

Be considerate to your pet’s well-being. Fireworks are loud and scary for many animals. Helping your dog or other pets get through the night is your main priority.

Summer Bucket List for Your Dog

Did you create a bucket list for yourself or your family for the summer? How about your dog? A bucket list does not necessarily mean a grand adventure for just humans. The main point of a bucket list is trying something new. If you need inspiration, check out the following list of ideas for a summer bucket list for your dog.  

Photo by Alotrobo on Pexels.com

Before going anywhere new, research the guidelines for bringing your pet. Many travel areas understand dogs are valuable family members. Other destinations may not be pet friendly. Researching or calling is the best way to learn the rules for bringing your faithful four-legged companion.

Photo by Spencer Gurley Films on Pexels.com
  1. Hit the Trails: Get outside. Go to your favorite hiking spot or find a new one. Spend the day exploring.
  2. Camp Out: Pet-friendly campgrounds cater to pets by offering dog runs or other play areas. Researching is the best way to find the best campground for you and your dog.
  3. Go to the Dog Park: Dog parks are exciting for your four-legged companion. Dogs love socialization and play. Try to visit your local dog park regularly. Next, go to a dog park. Different play areas are a new adventure for your dog.
  4. Pet-Friendly Hotel: Do you and your dog need a relaxing night away? Go to a pet-friendly hotel for the night or the entire weekend. Many hotels strive to include family pets in their accommodations. Order room service. Enjoy a night of relaxation with your fur baby.
  5. BBQ Time: Grill steak or chicken for you and your pet to enjoy. Or host a dog-friendly BBQ for your friends and their pets.
  6. Spend Time at the Lake: If your dog loves to swim, head to your local pet-friendly lake. Pack a lunch. Spending time at the lake is an activity your entire family will enjoy.
  7. Pet-Friendly Backyard: Redesign a portion of your backyard with your dog in mind. Install a dog activity area with ramps for running, add a small child’s swimming pool, a watering station, shade area, dog run, and more.
  8. Professional Photo: As a pet owner, you probably have hundreds (or thousands) of photos of your pet with your family. Not to mention, the extra selfies of you and your pet together. But do you have a professional photo?
  9. Cuddle Time: Watching your favorite videos, sitting on your couch, and cuddling with your pet is a great way to spend an evening.

Coming up with a summer bucket list for your dog is a great family activity. Enjoy all the different ideas together.

Quick Easter Basket Ideas for Your Dog

Tomorrow is Easter! Are you ready? Are you still preparing Easter baskets? Did you remember your four-legged companion? Dogs are a valuable part of your family. Spoiling them with an Easter basket adds to the excitement of the day. If you are searching for quick Easter basket ideas for your dog, check out the following list.

Photo by Alice Castro on Pexels.com

Easter Basket Ideas for Your Dog

  1. New Collar: After the long winter, is your dog’s collar looking a little worn? Consider a brightly colored collar to go with the warm months ahead.
  2. Bandana: A new, holiday-themed bandana to wear around on Easter Sunday is the perfect addition to your dog’s basket. Bandanas are an inexpensive Easter Basket filler. You may want to grab a couple extra for the upcoming summer months.
  3. Squeaky Toys or Ball: Does your dog like squeaky toys? Or is playing catch a favorite for your four-legged fur baby? Almost every department store carries a large selection of squeaky toys and balls. Grab two or three for your dog’s basket.
  4. Dog Biscuits, Treats, or Bones: What’s your dog’s favorite snack? When you are out picking up last-minute items for Easter, grab a bag of your dog’s preferred treat. If you want to go the extra step, you can always make homemade dog biscuits to place in the basket.
  5. Doggie Fashion Wear: Shirts, coats, hats, and even pajamas are all available for your dog to enjoy.
  6. New Stuffed Toy (Dog Approved): A stuffed bunny or other dog toys are a perfect addition to the Easter Basket.
  7. Photo with the Easter Bunny: Many organizations host Easter Bunny photos for pets to raise funds. Generally, the cost is low or by donation. As a pet owner, you will get a memorable photo of your dog or the two of you together with the Easter Bunny. The best part, the funds raised go to a good cause.

Whatever you decide to do for Easter, take time to cuddle and love your faithful companion. Happy Easter!

The Extra Easter Basket

Easter is a great way to spread joy with friends, family members or casual acquaintances. Attending church services, Easter egg hunts, and other community events are generally a normal part of the holiday weekend. Due to the pandemic many annual events may not be held.   

For many, creating Easter baskets is a major part of the celebrations. As you begin to play the honorary role of the Easter bunny, consider making an extra Easter basket to share. The simple kind gesture may have a positive impact on someone’s whole day or even week. One spark of kindness may set a chain reaction without end.

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Image by Terri Cnudde from Pixabay 

Sharing the Extra Easter Basket

Are you wondering who may need an Easter basket? Consider all the people; you come in contact with on a daily basis. Still, need ideas? Check out the list below.

  • Friends
  • Extended family members
  • A child who you know is not getting an Easter basket due to financial restraints. (Remember you may need to ask permission to give a child an Easter basket. Some foods and toys may not be allowed.)
  • Teacher
  • Bus Driver
  • Child Care Provider
  • Dog Walker
  • Coach
  • Classmate
  • The barista who always gets your morning order correct.
  • Your dog’s pal at the park.

The list is endless. Just think of someone who may need an extra smile this time of year.

Keeping Your Dog (and Other Animals) Calm During Fireworks

Fireworks are an excellent way to celebrate Independence Day. For humans, the large, vibrant displays are a traditional part of the 4th of July activities. Unfortunately, for animals, the loud bangs and booms are frightening.

Even though many communities are canceling fireworks and other events due to the coronavirus. Other areas are planning larger and longer displays. Of course, many individuals set off fireworks right in their own backyards. Being prepared is the best way to help your dog or other animals through loud, scary activities.

Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks

As a responsible pet owner, you know your dog the best. You understand which noises cause the most distress. Finding ways to calm your dog, cat, or other animals may require a little preparation.

My two dogs out for a walk.

  1. Exercise and Walk Before Dusk: Walk your dog early in the day, spend extra time at the dog park, or play for a little while longer. Tiring your dog out early can help ease anxieties for the upcoming fireworks.
  2. Stay Home: Your dog is your best pal. Being with your dog during fireworks is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Skip the activities to stay home to comfort your favorite four-legged companion. During the fireworks, your dog will be thankful to have you in for the night.
  3. Stay Indoors: Keep your dog inside. Being outdoors during a fireworks display may cause your dog to run off and get lost.
  4. Create Normal Sounds: What appliances do you run on a regular daily basis? Turn up your television, play the music a little louder, run the air conditioner, turn on fans, or other normal sounds that your dog knows.
  5. Create a Safe Area: Making your dog feel safe is essential. If your dog uses a crate, allow him or her access. Move your dog to the most interior part of your living space to muffle outdoor noises. Do not be afraid to lie down beside your dog to provide comfort.
  6. Special Treat or Toy: Purchase a new chew toy, bone, or other treats for your dog. Keeping your pet occupied with a new bone or special treat can ease anxieties.
  7. Talk to Your Vet: If your dog is susceptible to the fireworks, contact your vet to voice your concerns. Your vet can give your advice or prescribe medicine to relax your dog for the night.

The 4th of July can be a scary time for your dog and other animals. Being aware of their needs is critical. Take the necessary steps to help your favorite four-legged companion get through the holiday.

Celebrating the Summer Solstice

Most people associate the first day of summer with the 3-day Memorial weekend. But technically this year, on June 20, 2020, the northern hemisphere will officially begin the first day of summer. Staying light longer, the sun will finally reach the furthest northern point in the sky. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year. After the summer solstice, the days will begin to lose light.

Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

Different cultures have a wide range of traditions to welcome the summer. Unfortunately, due to recent health mandates, social distancing, and stay at home guidelines, many festivals and celebrations are canceled this year. But do not let all the restrictions keep you from celebrating the summer solstice.

  • Go Hiking: Numerous parks are open to the public. Yes, social distancing still applies to the trails, but you still can enjoy the great outdoors. Hike a new trail. Spend an extra hour outdoors. Hiking is good for the entire family. Even young children can enjoy easy trails. Of course, don’t forget your dog.
  • Go for a Walk: A simple walk around the block can be refreshing. Walk to your local park. The playground equipment may still be inaccessible. But enjoy the different paths throughout the park. If you are working, go for a short walk on your lunch break.
  • Enjoy Nature: Take a leisurely stroll in your local park to enjoy nature. Take along binoculars and a camera to capture your view. If you are allowed, pick wildflowers, collect rocks, and other nature items to use for craft projects later.
  • Meditate or Pray: Sitting outside in nature is the perfect time to reflect. Give yourself time to meditate or pray.
  • Watch the Sunrise or Sunset: Taking a moment out of your day to simply watch the sunrise or set, gives you a chance to relax and destress.
  • Cook a Feast: Okay, a simple BBQ or a picnic will do the trick. But cooking a meal and enjoying the celebration as a family is a great way to honor the changing season.
  • Host a Bonfire: If you haven’t used your fire pit this year yet, the summer solstice is the perfect day to start. Build a small fire, watch the sunset, and marvel at the stars. Oh, and don’t forget the chocolatey, marshmallow goodness of S’mores.
  • Celebrate Virtual: Due to restrictions, many popular sites, including Stonehenge, are celebrating the summer solstice online. Watch the sunrise or set, listen to music, or watch an event.

Regardless of the way you celebrate the solstice, enjoy the summer day. Summer goes by quickly. Soon, the cold weather will return.

May: National Pet Month

Did you know the entire month of  May is National Pet Month in the United States? Every day, pets bring joy to millions of households. Your pet is part of your family. Are you wondering how you should celebrate your favorite four-legged friend? Check out the following ideas for inspiration.

Pamper Your Pet

Do you currently own a pet or three? National Pet Month is the perfect time to pay extra attention to your dog, cat, turtle, bird, or other creature.

My two dogs out for a walk.

  • Go for Longer Walks: With social distancing, getting out with your dog is essential for both of you. Go for walks, take a different route, or spend extra time outdoors.
  • New Treats: When you are looking at the treat section, try something new. Your pet may appreciate a change. New dog bones, kitty treats, or special bird treats are excellent for pampering your pet. Or, if you are self-isolating, consider making a homemade treat for your pet.
  • New Apparel: Do you dress up your dog? Buy your favorite pup a new outfit for spring.
  • Collars: When was the last time you bought your pet a new collar? Celebrate National Pet Month by buying new collars.
  • Bedding: Invest in a new pet bed to give your dog or cat a new area to sleep.

Adopt

Right now is the perfect time to add a new pet to your family. With the stay at home guidelines, you can spend the extra time caring for a new pet. Consider contacting your local shelter or dog rescue to find the best match for your household. Remember when adopting a pet, research the breed. Knowing about specific animal behavior before adopting can help to determine if the pet is right for you.

Foster

If you or your family are not ready to fully commit but would like to know how a cat or dog would fit into your family’s lifestyle, consider fostering. Numerous pet rescues and shelters place all types of animals into foster homes until they can be adopted. Fostering provides first-hand knowledge of pet ownership without a long-term commitment. When the time ends, most agencies allow foster families first pick on keeping the pet forever.

Donate

All shelters or dog rescues use donations. Of course, they will take monetary donations. But, most have a want list posted on their social media pages. If you want a hassle-free experience, consider taking advantage of the free shipping options. Allow the retailer to ship the item right to the rescue.

Social Media Share

Sharing posts on social media is a great way to help without the cost or responsibility of ownership. When you are on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, follow your local animal shelter or pet rescue. Every time a post appears of animals needing a home, share the information with your followers. A simple share may lead to an animal rescue among your friends or acquaintances.

Even small gestures can make National Pet Month a celebration. Enjoy your pet, adopt, or help a rescue.

Random Acts of Kindness Day

Did you know today, February 17th is Random Acts of Kindness Day? Every day people go on with their daily lives with little notice of the world around them. But promoting small Random Acts of Kindness has the potential to positively impact a large number of people.

40 Ideas for Random Acts of Kindness Day

  1. Donate food to a homeless shelter
  2. Bake cookies or other goodies for an elderly neighbor, co-worker, friend, or loved one
  3. Tape quarters on a vending machine
  4. Pay for the vehicle’s meal behind you in line at the drive-thru
  5. Donate clothes or toys to a women’s shelter
  6. Volunteer at a nursing home
  7. Mail cards of encouragement to friends
  8. Send a quick text to someone
  9. Walk a dog at your local shelter or rescue
  10. Make a meal for a family in need
  11. Let someone in front of  you at the checkouts
  12. Use the day to show gratitude instead of complaining
  13. Purchase a movie ticket for the person standing in line behind you
  14. Call an old friend
  15. Send flowers to your child’s teacher
  16. Babysit without charging
  17. Spend time with your grandparents or other elderly relatives
  18. Post a positive review of a local business
  19. Check for a wish list at your local animal rescue and send needed supplies
  20. Hold the door open for someone
  21. Thanks a person for a job well done
  22. Send cards filled with stickers, gift cards, or other small items to your nieces, nephews, or other small children in your life.
  23. Buy a bag a groceries for someone in need
  24. Help a neighbor with yard work
  25. Take a plate of treats to your local police or fire station
  26. Pick up litter at a local park, beach, or other natural areas
  27. Send a care package to a person serving in the military
  28. Make a gift basket for your pastor
  29. Pay someone’s library fees
  30. Pay off a child’s overdue lunch fees
  31. Make a special afterschool treat for your children
  32. Spend some extra time with your dog
  33. Paint small rocks to hide around the community.
  34. Offer to drive someone to a doctor’s appointment
  35. Tip your waiter or waitress above the average amount
  36. Plant a tree in the memory of someone
  37. Make and deliver homemade cards
  38. Read to someone
  39. Purchase a cup of coffee or latte for a random person, co-worker, neighbor, or friend
  40. Engage in self-care

Media bombards you with negative posts and stories daily. Showing Random Acts of Kindness is a small way to spread positive gestures.

Doggy Date Night

Did you know February 3rd is Doggy Date Night? How should you celebrate? Simply give your favorite four-legged companion some extra love and time. Do you need some ideas to make Doggie Date Night a fun evening?

Doggy Date Night Ideas

1. Go for a Hike: Does your dog enjoy being outdoors? Celebrate Doggy Date Night by going for a hike or an extra-long walk.

2. Go to the Dog Park: If it’s not your customarily scheduled day to go to the park, celebrate Doggy Date Night with an extra visit. Invite your friends to join with their dogs. The outing is perfect for you to catch up with your friends, plus your dog gets a play date.

3. New Toys: Buy a new squeaky, ball, or chew toy. Or take your dog to your local pet store to pick out a new toy.

4. New Leash and Collar: When was the last time you bought your dog a new leash or collar? Update your pet’s accessories.

5. Special Treat: Make homemade dog bones or muffins. If you cannot make homemade, buy high-quality treats from your reputable pet store.

6. Go On a Road Trip: The road trip does not need to be far away. When dogs love to ride in a vehicle, a trip to run errands is a wonderful treat. Of course, you can go on a long road trip. Depending on the weather, you can go to the lake or other favorite destinations.

7. Cuddle Time: After a long day, the best way to celebrate Doggy Date Night is cuddle time. Snuggle together on the couch while you binge-watch your favorite show.

Spending extra quality time with your dog is the best way to celebrate Doggy Date Night.

Even if you do not have a dog, you can still join in on the fun. Numerous animal shelters and rescues need dog walkers. Celebrate Doggy Date Night by volunteering your time to walk a dog. Who knows by volunteering your time, you may end up finding your new furry friend.

 

 

Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Your Dog

Are you getting ready to do some last-minute shopping? When finding the perfect stocking stuffers, do not forget your dog. Your faithful companion will love the extra attention on Christmas morning.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Your Dog

  • Ball: A new ball to chase around the yard or at the dog park.
  • Squeaky Toy: Okay, a new squeaky may be annoying for you, but your dog loves the noisy toy.
  • Collar: A new collar to match your dog’s personality. Get a matching leash.
  • Bandana: This inexpensive item comes in numerous colors and designs. You could get your dog one for each day of the week.
  • Treats: Your dog loves treats. Place your four-legged friend’s favorite treats in the stocking or make a batch of homemade ones. Your dog will thank you with lots of kisses.
  • Winter Coat: Are you in a colder climate? Dogs love to be pampered. Buying your dog a winter coat will make outdoor time more fun.
  • Personalized Dog Tag: Get your dog a customized dog tag to ensure a safe return home if lost.

Make Christmas time promises to your dog. For example, to spend extra quality time together through the holiday season. A longer walk or extra cuddle time while binge-watching your favorite show, your dog will enjoy your time together.

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