Her and Her Dogs

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NOT YOUR TYPICAL WISH LIST

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CREATE YOUR ONLINE WISHLIST – ACCESSIBLE TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

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My in-laws will be here for Christmas this year.  It will be the first time in more than a decade that we have celebrated together. In that time, we’ve had the same, traditional gift of a case of wine delivered to them, each year.

SURPRISE! Not.

My husband and I also stopped doing stockings, and Christmas presents, years ago.  We tend to find something we like or need, and say, “that’s your Christmas present.” It wasn’t until asked to provide a wish-list, for my in-laws, that I remembered how much fun we were missing out on.  Last year was exceptionally quiet; undecorated, and uncelebrated.  We had just moved into our new house, the month prior, and I could not bring myself to look at, or unpack, another box.

We had the equivalent of Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree as our holiday decor

This year, as we will all be together, I am going OTT with my decorations, and, according to my husband, our budget.  I’m also looking forward to sharing gifts that, would not ship well.

Initially, I struggled with the task of creating my wish-list. It felt weird; as if I was asking, or expecting these things to be purchased for me.  Another challenge was finding items from, or shippable to the UK (for my in-laws to then bring over in their suitcase).

I changed my approach and started to create MY wish-list, FOR ME!

organizer – on my wishlist

I filled it with things I knew I would enjoy rather than, exclusively, practical, useful things.  ‘Practical’ was the type of things my husband and I bought ourselves, for Christmas.

Just as I was in full swing, and having fun creating my list, I had to stop.   The elves in in-laws needed time to review the list, and should they choose, place their order.

Of course, after copying links to a word document, I stumbled across this WishList site that allows you to create your list(s), and add to it, throughout the year.

There is no charge to create a WishList, with up to 10 Wishes. For unlimited Wishes and cool features, register to become a Premium, WishList member.

Create profiles for yourself, family members, friends, (rescue) organizations or schools.

Ummm, how cute?!

Make beautiful pages with a story, background images, profile photos, and featured images.

Then create multiple WishLists under each profile.

Friends and family can find and access your list by searching your name or email address.  Or, you could be less than subtle and send them a direct link. Click here to view MY CURRENT WISHLIST

(did I mention it’s my birthday next week?!)

There are different ways to add wishes to your list:

+WishList.com Browser Button

+WishList.com app for iPhone® lets you add wishes from your favorite websites or by uploading pictures and descriptions.

+WishList.com app for Android® lets you add wishes from your favorite websites or by uploading pictures and descriptions.

Accept Contributions

Receive contributions for yourself, a cause important to you (Most RESCUES have wishlists), a school, a friend or a family member.

People can contribute money or items towards your whole WishList, a single Wish or a contribution goal you’ve set.

Manual Wish (my preferred method)

I can’t wait to see which friend selects this gift!

Add any Wish you can dream up, with the occasion, description, gift notes, images and more…

 

May all your wishes come true!

 

 

 

 

HALLOWEEN SAFETY – SPONSORED BY CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL PET

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TRICK-FOR-TREAT GIVEAWAY!

#SPONSORED – Disclaimer: Her and her dogs are being compensated to review Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food® and share feedback with our followers. The opinions shared in this post are ours, expressed in our words. It is our choice, and our pleasure to share information about this product with you.

Halloween candies are not treats for pets
Keep the goodies out of reach of pets.
Chocolate – especially dark chocolate – can be dangerous, even lethal for cats and dogs.
Xylitol – an artificial sweetener found in some candies can also be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause blood sugar levels to drop, followed by loss of coordination and seizures. Xylitol ingestion has also been linked to liver failure in dogs!

Bring pets indoors
Evil seems to escalate on Halloween. Sadly, there are vicious individuals who create terror for pets and their people.  They tease, injure, poison, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night. Disgusting, I know.  Preventable nonetheless.  Black cats, in particular, are a target. Please bring pets indoors on Halloween.

Keep pets away from the door that opens to greet Trick-or-Treaters
Depending on where you live, that door may be opening and closing constantly.  The doorbell and spookily clad visitors may cause severe anxiety for your pets.  They may react fearfully and try to escape. Or, they could become aggressive towards that little unicorn.  Better safe than sorry. Securing pets in a crate or separate room away from the front door will reduce stress and prevent them from darting outside on Halloween night – a night of chaos.

Consider Setting a Calm Environment before the arrival of monsters
Rescue Remedy and Feliway spray are just a couple of suggestions of natural de-stressing agents available to help keep your pets comfortable on this crazy night.  Calming wraps are another, non-digestible option.


Practice Visits and Doorbell Ringing
Even if you have guests visit regularly, your doorbell probably rings more on this occasion. To help your dog or cat feel more at ease, practice ahead of time to create a positive association with the doorbell. Try ringing the doorbell before entering your own house and reward your dog for not barking.  You could also recruit friends to assist with this training.  This tip may be helpful for other occasions/get-togethers also.

Pet Costumes
Don’t add to the stress of the evening by putting a costume on them that they aren’t comfortable in, or is unfamiliar to them.  Non-restrictive costumes are best. Costumes should not restrict movement, hearing, eyesight, or the ability to breathe. Ensure Fido is familiar with his outfit before the big night and don’t leave him unsupervised while in costume to prevent choking or suffocation.

Beware of Fire and Electrical Hazards
Candles, Jack-O-Lanterns, and electric or battery operated decorations can also pose a safety hazard to pets.  Don’t leave pets unattended in the vicinity of such items and be sure they are blown out or switched off at the end of the night. Check regularly to ensure they don’t overheat.

Walk safely
If you must take your pet out with the two-legged members of your pack (perhaps less stressful than being left at home alone), Please keep him on a short leash and ensure he is visible by adding reflective tape to his costume or collar. LED lights are also options. Small dogs are especially at risk of being trampled by excited trick-or-treaters.

Pet Identification
If your dog or cat escapes on Halloween night, having the proper identification will increase the chances of their safe return. ID tags on collars are the first place a Good Samaritan will look if able to detain your runaway pet.  Microchips offer permanent identification should the collar, or tag come off. Please make sure the contact information is up-to-date. Don’t wait until Halloween to check. I suggest making this part of Fido’s annual check-up!

Who You Gonna Call?
Not ‘Ghost Busters’! Be sure your contact list is up to date:
-Animal Control
-Pet Poison Hotline
-Emergency Vet Clinic in your area
Grab a pen and write this info. on a note and stick it to your fridge, now.  Go on; I’ll wait!

Okay, that’s the scary stuff out of the way.  Once you are prepared and know your pets will be safe and as stress-free as possible, you can enjoy the festivities.  Don’t forget to play ‘Trick-For-Treat’ with your dogs.

In addition to healthy meals, Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food offers equally healthy treats for pets. The product does not contain Corn, Wheat, Soy, Artificial Colours or Flavors, By-Product Meals or Synthetic Preservatives or Fillers.

We carry both dry and wet food formulas in a variety of flavors sure to make your pup drool! All of our premium quality flavors cover any life stage and include grain-free options

Peanut Butter Crunchy Bites anyone?

Enter for your chance to win a 15lb bag of dog food, and two bags of treats (U.S. winners) from Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food.

Contest open to Canadian and U.S. residents.  Canadian winners will receive gift vouchers and are responsible for sourcing product from a retailer. Click here for locations.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Goose wasn’t about to sit on the sidelines and miss out on treats!

Happy Haunting!

For shares that include a brand URL, please include the #ad hashtag in your social share.

 

 

 

 

THANKSGIVING & THE BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN

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We use pumpkin all year round.  There are many benefits to including this low fat, low calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable in the entire pack’s diet.

My Little Pumpkin

Contains Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A
promotes eye health and prevents the development of night blindness and other degenerative eye conditions. Since Vitamin A is fat-soluble, feeding your dog pumpkin with a little healthy oil will make the nutrients more effective. Mix your pup’s pumpkin on top of his regular food, or mix in some flax or coconut oil. The oil will also help nourish their skin and coat.

Vitamin C
essential for immune health. When combined with vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin E and other antioxidants in pumpkin, it might help prevent certain cancers from developing.

Potassium
necessary for the proper functioning of enzymes, muscles, and nerves. It is also necessary to maintain a proper fluid balance throughout the body.

Antioxidant (must reiterate the importance of this)
Derived from the carotenoid family, pumpkin, absorbed into the cells fight free radicals, or “oxidants” in your pet’s system. Oxidants occur naturally in our immune systems. Too many oxidants can contribute to cancers and other illnesses.  By including natural, fresh sources of antioxidants, such as those found in pumpkin, you can boost your pet’s immune system.

Moisturizes
Another benefit of Vitamin A as well as zinc, is that they can help improve your pet’s skin and coat. The high water content in pumpkin flesh also contributes to supple skin and a luxurious coat.

Hydrates
Many dogs who consume a kibble the only diet suffer from mild, but chronic dehydration. Dry dog food has low moisture content . Pumpkin contains a high moisture content; by adding pumpkin to meals, you add more water to your dog’s diet.

Weight Loss Aid
The High Fibre content helps fill you up (great for helping mom and pup with weight loss goals). Pumpkins have a high moisture and fibre content, which makes them a powerful tool for your pet’s weight loss. Replacing a little of your dog’s regular food with canned pumpkin (a few teaspoons for a small dog up to half a cup with a large dog) can help your dog lose some excess weight. The fibre and water in the pumpkin will keep them full, so they don’t miss the extra calories.

Medicinal Purposes
Digestive Issues and Regularity
For upset stomachs, pumpkin will aid to tighten stool in the case of diarrhea, or loose stool if your dog is suffering from constipation.

Pumpkin Seeds Prevent Urinary Incontinence
As well as the pumpkin flesh, give your pet a taste of the seeds! Pumpkin seeds contain Omega 3 fatty acids. These have anti-inflammatory properties, which can assist with dislodging kidney stones. Pumpkin seed powder is used to prevent urinary incontinence (the reduced ability to hold in urine).

Tastes Great!
Like many people, dogs enjoy the rich, creamy consistency of pumpkin.

IMPORTANT!
Be aware of what you’re buying when you get canned pumpkin. Some spices are not good for dogs. I only use 100% pure pumpkin.

Always check the ingredients label if you’re not sure.

HOW TO SERVE PUMPKIN TO DOGS
Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, you may wish to consult your veterinarian for advice.

Portion Size: Ask your vet for guidance on appropriate portions. Depending on the size of your dog, and their current health issues, the recommended serving could be one tablespoon once a day, all the way up to 2-4 ounces at each meal.

Homemade Dog Food: Pumpkin is an excellent addition to homemade dog food. It can also be used in conjunction with rice to help with upset stomachs (see above).

Consider mixing pumpkin into your dog’s regular diet. Since you’re adding food, you may wish to reduce the amount of kibble or wet food you’re feeding them. Discuss options with your vet. I don’t recommend mixing pumpkin with a raw diet – consult your vet.

How Much Pumpkin:
Unless your pet suffers from diabetes, 1 tsp of canned (or cooked and pureed) pumpkin per 10lbs of body weight per day is a good standard to go by. If unsure, please consult a veterinarian.  For puppies and toy or underweight dogs, only feed pumpkin in very small amounts as a treat.

 

Happy Fall,

 

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