I got a kick out of this. It makes me wonder what my pets would sound like, hahaha. Happy holidays, everyone!
Merry Christmas!
Thinking About Adopting A Puppy?
I’m all for adoption and rescue. There are so many little animals out there that need homes and love, and so few people that can take them on. Anyone who takes even one of them into their lives makes such a huge difference. However, owning a pet is a huge responsibility. There is a disturbing trend of pets (mostly puppies and kittens) being given as holiday gifts. Then, two or three months later, when they get bored of them (or are completely not ready to take care of a puppy), they just dump them at a shelter. If you are considering giving an animal as a gift, just don’t. Take time to research exactly what that will entail, and make sure the other person is ready to accept the responsibility. If you are going to add a puppy to your home soon, read this infographic on Pinterest first- it has everything that you will need for a new dog:
-Teach them- Sit, Stay, Lay Down
-Buy- Food, bowls, collar or harness, leash, and toys
-Microchip
-Shots
-Spaying and neutering
3D Printer Lets Dog Run For The First Time
This is truly incredible– technology these days just boggles my mind.
Dogs and Depression
It’s a well known fact that spending time with an animal is a huge antidepressant. Just petting a dog can significantly lower blood pressure, relieve stress, and give your brain more happy chemicals. I can personally attest to it. I’ve always been open about my struggles with depression, and there’s nothing like unconditional love from a furry friend for your mental health. People with pets live longer, and live happier- there’s a reason why “animal therapy” exists. Pets bring so much joy and love into your life, and have been proved at fighting depression- especially dogs. Check out this post by Therese Borchard at Every Day Health for ways that a dog could be the answer to your troubles:
-They offer unconditional, uncomplicated love and acceptance
-They alter your behavior. With a dog, you have to wake up, get out of bed, keep him fed. When you get home, you pet him instead of yelling about our frustrations. We calm down when we are with our dogs. We slow our breath, our speech, our minds.
-Dogs are distracting- when watching a dog, you’re entertained. You’re out of your own head for the moment, and away from your own thoughts.
-Dogs promote physical touch- and the healing power of touch is undisputed.
Friday Fun Video: Baby Bat Burritos
The title explains it all. How cute!
Quirky Cat Gifts
If you’re like me, you love to spoil your cat. She gets wet food every night, catnip toys every few months, sleeps in my bed, has photoshoots with my phone, and yes, gets presents on Christmas. I know she doesn’t really care, but I feel like I get her the same thing every year (more catnip toys). So, what do you get for the cat who already “has everything”? Check out this list by catingtonpost at Ebay.com for unusual ideas:
-Silvervine- like catnip, on steroids! (It is safe for cats)
-Jewelry for cats
-Toilet training kits (no more kitty litter for you!)
-Upcylced cat beds-Add charm to a typically boring pet bed, with an upcycled pet bed made from a vintage suitcase, cozy sweater, or salvaged appliance.
-Cat TV- Your cat is sure to love watching a DVD made especially for cats! One to two hours of video of cats’ favorite things to watch – squirrels, birds, fish, mice, and bugs – all filmed from a cat’s perspective – and irresistible to kitties.
Friday Fun Video: Interested In Adopting A Pet? Watch This First
Remember, always adopt or rescue instead of funding puppy mills and pet stores! Watch this video to prepare yourself if you are considering adding a pet to your life.
What To Bring When Traveling With Your Dog
The winter holidays are fast approaching (somehow, I’m already almost done with my gift shopping!), and that means you’re probably going to be traveling. And, if you’re leaving for more than a day, and can’t afford a kennel or dogsitter, you probably are taking him with you. How fun! I love taking my dogs places (always ask your host’s permission! Don’t be that guy.), and they love riding in the car. I make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and make sure I have an extra person with me to district them while I drive. For a list of more pet traveling essential items, check out this post by The I Love Dogs Site:
-Collar & ID Tags / Microchip- in case he gets loose
-Crate
-Vet information
-Pet first aid kit
-Food and water
-Poop bags
Friday Fun Video: Little Thanksgiving
Oh my goodness. I just have no words for how adorable this is.