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BLUESTEM ORAL CARE – #bluestempets

August 29, 2016 | 51 Comments

PROTECT YOUR PET’S SMILE

Because, they are your reason to smile

Happy, smiling dogs

Happy, smiling dogs

This post is sponsored by bluestem™ and the BlogPaws® Pet Influencer Network™. I am being compensated to increase awareness of and share my experiences with the bluestem™ oral care products, but we only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Bluestem™ is not responsible for the content of this article.

The Parker Pack (that’s us), includes three puppy mill rescues and a formerly neglected cat. In previous posts, I have shared with you the dire conditions in which the mill dogs are kept. In most cases, these dogs are not provided with basic veterinarian care, never mind having their teeth cleaned.

When mill dogs are rescued, a large number of them are sedated, for their comfort, before having their teeth cleaned. They are in agony from their poor state of health and injuries. Signs of neglect in dental health care include bad breath -in part due to poor nutrition and a buildup of plaque, inflamed, swollen, red gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth or complete loss of teeth. In some cases upon rescue, mill dogs will have teeth surgically removed.

The stench of rotting teeth and flesh due to infection is all too familiar to volunteers, rescue workers and veterinarians who work to treat these dogs.

Reese was missing several teeth when we rescued her. Regular upkeep of oral care is an absolute must for these dogs. Pet oral health should be routine for all pet parents. To preserve Reese’s remaining teeth, and prevent further anesthesia, we have been vigilant with teeth cleaning. At nearly eleven years old, with a grade four heart murmur, surgery is more of a risk.

Even with the best intentions, and regular handling to familiarize our companions with teeth cleaning, the process can be a challenge. Especially, accessing the back teeth. OUCH! Reese may be missing teeth but the ones she does have work exceptionally well.  We’ve tried soft-bristled baby tooth brushes, and finger brushes, and sterile wipes. Nothing removed the plaque, and everyone ended up frustrated. I was frustrated, the pups were annoyed. But, I made every effort. We even tried another topical product which required no food or toys in mouths twenty minutes before or after application. THAT, WAS IMPOSSIBLE! Henry carries his fluffy hippos everywhere, all-the-time.

I was grateful for the opportunity to review the bluestem™ oral care product line.

Reese demonstrates how easy it is to care for her teeth

Reese demonstrates how easy it is to care for her teeth

About bluestem oral care:
The product line includes an Oral Care Spray, available in Vanilla Mint Flavor, and an Oral Care Water Additive, available in a selection of four flavors: Chicken Flavor, Original Flavor, and Vanilla Mint Flavor

Most of the product line is safe for both dogs and cats, however,

VANILLA MINT FLAVOR IS NOT FOR CATS – according to Health Canada’s Veterinary arm, products with natural mint ingredients can cause upset stomach in cats.

Vanilla Mint is NOT for cats

Vanilla Mint is NOT for cats

Bluestem oral care is available as both a water additive and oral spray. All bluestem products contain coactiv+™ technology – a unique formulation of food-grade ingredients that are scientifically developed to break down biofilm, where harmful bacteria multiply. Clinically proven safe and effective for daily use in cats and dogs.

As per instruction, we gradually introduced the additive to the water bowls. They did seem to notice it was a bit different but were not put off.

-day one, add ¼ cap of bluestem to 2.5 cups of water
-day two, add ½ cap. If your pet objects, keep the dose low for a few more days and don’t let them see you ‘mess with their water.’
-slowly work up to 2 capfuls per 2.5 cups of water

Water Additive

Water Additive

Because we have four furries drinking out of two water bowls, I empty and refresh each bowl at least twice daily (depending on the murkiness of the water). In this regard, we experienced some wastage of the additive.

The spray works well for Henry and Reese – I love that it doesn’t have that ‘startling’ hiss sound. It does still surprise them a bit when it makes contact, but they go to licking their teeth, spreading the coactiv+™ and freshening their breath.

Oral Spray

Oral Spray

Each visit to our vet would result in the same somewhat optimistic comment regarding Henry and Reese’s oral health. “They don’t look any worse.” He would say. And, (indicating the stubborn yellow areas), “keep up with the routine and especially try to wipe these teeth.”

I was absolutely over the moon when we visited last week.

Dr. M. noticed the difference in Henry’s teeth immediately and asked what we had been doing differently. I told him ‘we have been using the bluestem oral care water additive for just over three weeks.’

Bluestem oral care products are approved by Health Canada’s Low Risk Veterinary Health Products (LRVHP). The products are Xylitol-free, alcohol-free and chlorhexidine-free, made with 100% food-grade ingredients suitable for daily use.

As you can see, Henry’s oral health has improved dramatically! Healthy teeth and gums are less swollen, and inflamed.

Before and After

Try bluestem oral care water additive or oral spray for 30 days to see the results for yourself!

Receive 20% off throughout the month of September!

Use Promotion Code: TRYBLUESTEM

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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of bluestem. The opinions and text are all mine.

Categories: PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: #ad, #bluestempets, #Sponsored, Pet Oral Health, Teeth

NUTRIENCE NEW YEAR #SubZeroDifference FROM PETSMART

December 30, 2015 | 18 Comments

This post is sponsored by Nutrience, PetSmart, and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about the launch of Nutrience Subzero in PetSmart Canada, but Her and Her Dogs (plus the cat) only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nutrience and PetSmart are not responsible for the content of this article.

Care

Another year older, another year wiser.  As we come to the end of 2015, I would like to say that my diet has been as healthy as that of the rest of my pack.  Sadly, that is not the case. Instead of beating myself up over the ten plus pounds still to lose, I choose to focus on the positive.

My pack and I had the opportunity to try Nutrience SubZeroTM and share our feedback with viewers via an online commercial.  Did people take our word for it?  Yes, they did!  I can’t speak for everyone, but I know we were able to make a difference to several other packs and the cats at our local shelter (thank you PetSmart Canada).

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I’m very proud to have made a head start on our resolutions for 2016. A year full of affirmations has started with:

Care, Share and Educate.

We only share information we believe to be true.  And we believe that nutrition is the key ingredient to a long and healthy life (for our companions and ourselves).

Let’s review the ingredients that make Nutrience SubZero a superior Canadian product:

Nutriboost is fresh protein, infused with a unique blend of nutritionally beneficial ingredients, and gently freeze-dried to lock in the natural goodness of raw foods

4 key ingredients (Green-Lipped Mussels, Pacific Cod Liver, Pumpkin & Acadian Kelp)

  • Green-Lipped Mussels – A natural anti-inflammatory to support joint health
  • Pacific Cod Liver  – A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy skin & coat
  • Pumpkin – A good source of dietary fiber to support digestion
  • Acadian Kelp – A variety of seaweed loaded with natural antioxidants to support a healthy immune system

Did we mention Nutrience SubZero is available in an equally nutritious feline formula?

Ricky likes it!

Ricky likes it!

Although I need to focus on my personal goals for 2016, I take comfort in knowing my companions are happy and healthy.  Every day they inspire me.

Thank you, Henry, Reese & Ricky,
xoxo

 

 

PetSmart Canada on Facebook

Nutrience Subzero at PetSmart

 

 

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: #Sponsored, Diet, Health, Resolutions

SLEEPYPOD DELIVERS PRECIOUS CARGO

December 2, 2015 | 36 Comments

SAFELY HOME, FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a Sleepypod Sport harness and a Sleepypod Utility harness as a collaborative effort to generate awareness regarding travel safety. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. It is our choice, and a pleasure to share this product/service information.

I don’t remember the accident. I remember cinnamon gum.

The gum burned my mouth as my tears burned my eyes. My bum was cold from sitting on the pop cooler at the front of the diner. My sister and I each had a waitress standing next to us. These poor girls tried their best to comfort us (and, quiet us by giving us gum).  Our sobs echoed throughout the restaurant. Perhaps only slightly less disturbing than the screech of tires and melding of metal the patrons had heard only moments before.

zero fatalities

zero fatalities

Following the collision with a drunk driver, our father was taken to the hospital for stitches and to be checked for other, less obvious injuries. My sister and I waited for our Grandparents to come for us; to collect their precious cargo,

When I was a child, car seats and seat belts were not mandatory. I recently learned from my father, that it was nearly impossible to keep my sister and I ‘belted in.’ My father – inventor of many things, designed and created car seats especially for my sister and me, the day before our trip to visit our Grandparents.

We were lucky to walk away with only a few scrapes and bruises. Had we not been wearing our seat belts, you might not be reading this post.

I can imagine the thoughts my father must have had after recovering from the traumatic event.  Thankfully, he was not one of too many people, that replay an ordeal over,  and think

If only I could go back in time, I would do things differently.

My companions are my precious cargo.  Henry and Reese travel with my husband and me whenever possible. We love spending time with them; visiting our favourite places and experiencing new and exciting adventures. In our home or hotel room, cuddles are limitless.  I will not, however, sacrifice the already limited time I will have with my dogs for a few extra hours of lap time in the car.

My Precious Cargo

My Precious Cargo

We are grateful for the opportunity to share the importance of travel safety, and introduce to you to the stellar products available from Sleepypod®. The harnesses are not only fashion forward, their innovative designs, have been rigorously tested earning Sleepypod several awards and a five-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety.  Clickit Sport includes the same dynamic crash tests used to test child safety restraints.

Clickit Sport is Sleepypod’s next generation dog safety harness. Our unique Infinity Loop design, in combination with an energy absorbing padded vest, is engineered to work together to distribute and reduce damaging forces in an accident without the need of additional hardware or attachment straps.

Sleepypod’s easy to use Infinity Loop system reduces additional attachment and detachment steps. Three points of contact reduce forward and lateral movement in the event of a collision or sudden stop. Two loops extend from the Infinity Loop system to provide attachment points for insertion through, then into the vehicle’s seatbelt.

These stunning harnesses can also be used for walking.  GREAT when you’re on the road and need to stop for a stretch and a wee (or three). No need to switch from safety harness to walking harness.

CLICKIT UTILITY CLICK TO VIEW CRASH TEST VIDEOS CLICKIT SPORT
Available in 3 colours Colour Options Available in 4 colours
More Restrictive, dogs can lie or sit comfortably Restrictive Less Restrictive, dogs can lie or sit comfortably
Up to 75lbs Dog Sizes Up to 90lbs
Vehicles year 2002 or newer Car Compatibility All vehicles
2012 Product Release Year Late 2013
Top performer Center for Pet Safety 2013 Awards/Certification Only dog harness Certified by the Center For Pet Safety 2014
Pet Passenger Restraint System Technology Pet Passenger Restraint System, Infinity Loop

 

Clickit HERE to learn how to introduce your pets to their harnesses and carriers. Please take a few minutes to learn how to safely secure your precious cargo.  Sleepypod recommends pets under 18lbs travel in a pet carrier. 

By reviewing and sharing this product information, I hope to demonstrate the importance of securing your precious cargo, and spare you the potential regret of not doing so.

Safety First!

Safety First!

Read about Sleepypod pet customers who are car crash survivors.

Be safe and enjoy your holidays with your loved ones!

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Web – http://www.sleepypod.com
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/sleepypod
Instagram – http://instagram.com/sleepypod
Pinterest – http://www.pinterest.com/sleepypod/
Tumblr – http://sleepypodusa.tumblr.com
Twitter – http://twitter.com/sleepypod
YouTube – http://www.youtube.com/user/Sleepypod

Categories: PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: #Sleepypod, #Sponsored, Responsible, Safety, Travel

PETSMART #SubZeroDifference – Take One!

November 16, 2015 | 7 Comments

This post is sponsored by Nutrience, PetSmart, and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about the launch of Nutrience Subzero in PetSmart Canada but Her and Her Dogs (plus the cat) only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nutrience and PetSmart are not responsible for the content of this article.
 
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Anyone who knows me is well aware that I shy away from cameras.  I used to have nightmares and would sleepwalk for two weeks before a piano recital and if I had to get up on stage and sing…FORGET IT!

Model Linda Evangelista was quoted saying

I don’t get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day.

So, how did the folks at PetSmart® convince Sadie & Co. to participate in a product video featuring Nutrience Grain Free Subzero®?

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  • Ricky
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Henry loves to ham it up for the cameras, and the cameras love Reese. I like to share.  And, how could I not agree to introduce a Canadian-made product that boasts this much nutritional content!

Visit your local PetSmart for special in-store demonstrations happening every weekend of the month!

SubZero is packed with nutrition!

SubZero is packed with nutrition!

The crew arrived at Parker Place (my house) in two vehicles full of equipment, including cameras, lights, backdrops, stands, etc.  I showed the team around and left them to decide where things needed to go, and they went about setting up.  I did my yoga breathing exercises – I’ve got this! OM-G!

The team, sent by PetSmart, were professional, courteous and friendly.  They made us feel relaxed, and the atmosphere was very casual.  There were no scripts to memorize, and I was free to ad-lib.  It was like having a conversation with friends during a coffee morning.

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The furkids were quite comfortable in the presence of extra people and temporary new fixtures, taking it all in stride.

After the shoot, the crew left and surprisingly, you would not even know they were there. The only proof is the photos! Everything was back exactly where it had been early that morning.

Video Shoot for PetSmart

Video Shoot for PetSmart

To learn about the ‘science and nutritional benefits’ behind Nutrience, and to see our video, check out our next post – NUTRIENCE SUBZERO FROM PETSMART – Our Take!

Photos of Henry, Reese and Ricky courtesy of PetSmart Canada.

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PetSmart Canada on Facebook

Nutrience Subzero at PetSmart

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Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: #Sponsored, #Subzero Difference, Diet, Health

RAW FOOD FOR DOGS AND CATS #InstinctRaw

September 24, 2015 | 14 Comments

Ricky enjoys Instinct Raw

Ricky enjoys Instinct Raw

This post is sponsored by Instinct® and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about Instinct Raw, but  Her and Her Dogs (plus the cat) only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Instinct is not responsible for the content of this article.

Due to extreme allergies (food and environmental) Henry, and Reese have been following a raw diet for several months now.  Most people have heard about the benefits of feeding a raw diet.  It seems most of the hype (marketing), is around Raw Dog Food.  We thought we would take this opportunity to treat the Rooster (Feline Ricky) to the benefits of a High Quality, High Protein diet.

Raw

From my experience, not all stores stock all brands, so I called my local PetSmart to check the availability of this product.  On my third call, we located a store not too far out of the way that stocks Nature’s Variety® Instinct Raw Cat Food. Henry and Reese came along for the ride; they love a trip to PetSmart and know, with one puppy dog look we will walk out with extra goodies!

The friendly staff at the Markham North (Ontario) location made the experience worth the extra drive.  I think every member of staff in the store greeted us including Manager Sasha, who helped us locate the product (in the freezer section). They were down to their last two bags! Sasha informed me their store takes product requests from customers and will order more of the Instinct Raw Bites for us to ensure continuity in the Rooster’s diet.  Whenever you switch up your companion’s diet, you should transition into the new plan.  After doing so, you want to maintain the new plan.  Therefore, we were glad to learn of this service.  I want to be sure that we always have at least one backup bag in the freezer.

Henry (with PetSmart Manager Sasha) recommends Duck for the Rooster

Henry (with PetSmart Manager Sasha) recommends Duck Protein for the Rooster

With 4 flavors for cats and 8 flavors for dogs you are sure to find a protein your pet loves!

Raw Bites were easy to incorporate and did not confuse feeding time in the least.  I simply added a few bites to a clean dish and a reduced portion of kibble.  By the time I had fed Henry and Reese, and placed Ricky’s dish on his cabinet, the bites had thawed.

Previously, we would put a bowl of food out for Ricky and before it was time for the second meal of the day, he would be crowing for more.  I wasn’t sure how this new meal plan would work.  It turns out when it comes to a nutrient dense meal that includes real meat, ‘less is more.’  After a transition period of seven days, where we mixed increasing amount of the new food with decreasing amounts of the previous food we figured out the right quantity of food for Ricky.

When Ricky, the Rooster (with his long, blonde tail feathers),  arrived at the shelter he was in bad shape; physically, and emotionally.  He had ‘stud-tail,’ fleas and his hair was so matted he was given a ‘lion-cut.’  This did little for what remained of his confidence, and I chose to bring this terrified cat home to rehabilitate.  Needless to say, he stayed with us and is part of our pack.  His hair grew back into a long, red mane, although a bit dry and stiff – reminiscent of ‘feathers.’  He now has the confidence of a lion (without the disastrous cut) and is enjoying the finer things in life, including his new gourmet meal plan.

We love that Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw is a grain-free, all natural raw diet, providing pure animal protein for lean muscles and strong bones.  The all natural ingredients ensure optimal nutrient absorption and nutritious oils for healthy skin and coat – and, after only a few weeks on his new diet, Ricky’s coat is shiny and soft. Try it for yourself!

$3.00 Off Coupon

Her and Her Dogs (plus the cat) are located in Ontario Canada.  We cross the border regularly and find it reassuring to know that Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw is available in Canada and the U.S. This convenience means one less thing to worry about when traveling.

Bon Appetit

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To learn more about Instinct Raw visit Instinct Pet Food

Follow Instinct on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/INSTINCT

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: #Sponsored, Cats, Health, Raw Diet

A FUR THING! The Awareness Project

May 30, 2015 | 12 Comments

EGO VS. ETHICS

#sponsored post

Photo courtesy of Gillian Woods. Headband courtesy of Melanie Millinery. Headband and coat are FAKE FUR!

While coming up with ideas for this post, my mind kept drifting to US WEEKLY’s celebrity poll ‘who wore it best.’  Who does wear fur better?  The winner is the animal whom the pelt belonged to in the first place, of course!!!

In some areas of the world, such as the three territories of Canada (Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon), resources are scarce.  The coldest recorded temperature was -63 °C (-81.4 F).  In these cases, the killing of animals is carried out, in accordance with The Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS).  No part of the animal is wasted, and the people of the Yukon are respectful of the animal.  In these cases, it is a matter of survival.

Back in the world of easy living, a large number of people consider fur to be fashionable and go out of their way to find it.  Perhaps they don’t realize the inhumane manner in which most ‘fur-farmed’ pelts are obtained.  Perhaps we just need to educate people.

They know (says Melanie Corbett, Milliner from Manchester, England).  The people who were asking me for REAL fur are the ‘type’ of a group that we, unfortunately, have in this country now. We call them ‘WAGS’ which is a term used for Footballers ‘Wives And Girlfriends.’ There are ALOT of young and older women who fit this type, i.e., long blonde hair extensions, false breasts, fake eyelashes, botox, lips pumped up with whatever!

They were trying my hats on and wanted to purchase them but didn’t because my fur is fake!!! I said to each and EVERY one of them ‘I don’t use real fur as I know that most of the animals are skinned alive.’
I was horrified that 90% of them did not bat an eyelid at all. Then they would ask me if I knew anyone selling real fur!!!!! Aaaarrrrggghhhh! !! So to answer your question. …no they don’t care.

It is horrific that because a lot of models are now wearing fur again, that the real WAGS are doing so and now all the ‘wannabes’ want it as well.

How can we educate people who are shallow and vacuous?

How could anyone possibly feel glamorous wearing an article of clothing that was literally peeled from the body of an animal? Especially when the fur was removed while the animal is still alive.

Many fur farms allegedly skin animals alive to keep the pelts intact from damage that could occur while killing them.

SUCH IRONY! Fake people wear real fur!!! Sigh – very sad that even when faced with the ugly truth, people still choose to make unethical decisions.

Sadly, Celebrities are in the spotlight and have the opportunity to make a difference and set a positive example.  It seems, for some (unknown) reason; we have taken two steps back, and it is once again ‘cool’ to wear fur!  More like ‘cruel.’  We, the general public do not have to follow their influence.  REAL (humane) PEOPLE FAKE FUR!!!

Here are the facts, you decide:
•Each year, more than 50 million animals are killed for their fur.  Rabbits guessed to be in the billions killed each year.
•Animals killed for their fur include but not limited to) beavers, foxes, minks, rabbits, and raccoons.
•To kill animals without damaging their fur, trappers will strangle, beat, or stomp them to death. The animals (on fur farms) TORTURED; gassed, poisoned, electrocuted, or have their necks snapped.
•Ranch-raised animals live in cages about 2 feet square, with up to four animals per cage.
•There is no federal law that regulates the killing of animals raised for fur.
•It can take up to 40 animals to make one fur coat.


FAUX BEAUTIFUL

I am very proud to state that the fur used in the images of this post are completely fake!  No animals harmed.

Some things ARE worth faking.  Here are a few more of Melanie’s beautiful creations.


 


#SPONSORED
Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a Faux Fur Headband / Neckwarmer / Earwarmer from MelanieMillinery as an collaborative effort to generate awareness for this topic. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review.  It is our choice, and a pleasure to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/MelanieMillinery 

To learn how Gillian created the photo for this month’s awareness piece visit:

https://www.facebook.com/gillyfacephotos

http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-style/news/kendall-jenner-chrissy-teigen-wear-same-fur-coat-photos–2015202

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fur_Institute_of_Canada

http://www.lcanimal.org/index.php/campaigns/fur/fur-trade-facts

http://www.respectforanimals.co.uk/facts-and-reports/fur-farming/53/

 

 

Categories: THE AWARENESS PROJECT Tagged: #Sponsored, Awareness, For a Cause

I DWELL IN POSSIBILITY…

January 24, 2015 | 21 Comments

– EMILY DICKINSON
Be (positively) Brilliant

There are many beautiful quotes inspired by possibility – a thing many will never understand because they refuse even to consider it.

For many years, I struggled in life. I was angry, and sad, and mostly conflicted – for reasons I don’t need to detail. I sought to change these feelings as I did not want to be that person. I was surrounded by the beliefs of others that proved to be a great opportunity for me to learn, and discover what did not resonate with me and seek that which did.

I took a leap of faith and bought a one-way ticket to England. Time away from everyone and everything that had influenced me thus far was paramount to my evolution. I could not wait to discover who I was – who I wanted to be.

I opened my mind to all possibilities. Before I had completely unpacked my bag, I attended a job fair where I was interviewed on the spot, and offered a position with ‘The Nature Company.’ This retail shop was located in Heathrow Airport – one of the busiest airports in the world. I got the job long, I discovered my faith and started travelling my chosen path; everything started to fall into place for me. Before people with similar values and beliefs came into my life. Working at The Nature Shop provided an environment in which I discovered much about astrology, our world and the different cultures and their beliefs. As well, I met some very interesting people on their way to somewhere else. That is the wonderful thing about airports. I would rush through security each day in order to avoid sad ‘goodbye’ scenes.

DON’T STOP BELIEVING

I had been in England for almost a year when I met my husband. Down the road from our first house, was a healing centre. The centre taught yoga and had classes on subjects such as meditation, flower blends, herbology and use of essential oils, and feng-shui. Services included Tarot Card Readings, Thai Yoga Massage, Deep Tissue Aromatherapy Massage, and Reiki. The healing centre became an oasis for me. Had I gone in ‘poo pooing’ the ideology of things, I most certainly would not have benefited from any. I kept an open mind and enjoyed each of those experiences. In fact, I benefited so much from my Reiki treatments I was invited to attend a workshop in Wales and become a Reiki practitioner. I went to Wales, I slept in a tent, in a field under the stars. Each morning, before participating in our Reiki exchanges, I bathed beneath a beautiful waterfall. There was a fallen tree across the stream on which a man would practice yoga. The experience was surreal – one for which I am truly grateful.

FAST FORWARD SEVERAL YEARS

These days, I mostly use Reiki as well as Tellington Touch Technique for my animal companions, and those in my care, my husband, and myself.

I continue to learn and be open to new ideas and practices. I was at a community women’s group meeting last year – a group that gets together to learn about a chosen topic, presented by a member of the group. In conversation, someone mentioned ‘The Bars.’ They weren’t suggesting we head to the local pub for a pint. Instead, they were referring to a type of energy work. When the meetings finish, there is normally a period of frenzie when women rush to speak with the presenter or other women within the group. It didn’t seem the opportunity to catch the woman who had mentioned the bars, would present itself anytime soon, and so I left. As with most things these days, I tucked it away in my brain and soon forgot about it.

Just before Christmas, this year, another group ran a ‘Pay it Forward’ type of Christmas Gift Exchange. Fellow group member Lisa Hill posted that she would like to offer someone an ‘Access Bars’ Treatment. Huh! How about that?

The section of my brain in which I had tucked away the previous ‘note to self’ suddenly awakened. I contacted Lisa and asked what it was all about and could this therapy also be used for animal companions.

“No” was her reply.

The Bars is something that only works on humans. Animals don’t have Bars because they don’t have the same “points of views” or judgments we have. They don’t need them.

Yamas! If you read my previous post you, will know what I mean by that.

ACCESS BARS AND HOW IT WORKS

The Bars are made up of 32 points on your head. The Bars treatment is a process in which the facilitator lightly touches these points to remove redundant thoughts, beliefs, judgments and points of view. 99.9% of all thoughts, feelings and emotions are not yours. Using the Access tools (including The Bars); Lisa teaches us; whenever you experience a thought or emotion, ask yourself, “Is this mine?” This is where ‘gut instinct’ comes into play. You will feel light and at ease when something resonates with you. If it does not, you feel heavy. The phrase ‘I feel as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders also refers.’ If something does not feel right, ‘return to sender.’ Don’t hang on to it.

Lisa compares The Bars treatment to cleaning up the hard drive of your computer or “defragging your brain.” As you delete old files, which you don’t need, things become clear, and you feel a sense of lightness. Old files include ‘junk mail’ sent by family members or people who have willed their opinions onto you. Space opens up for you to save a new file – a reality based on what YOU would like and what makes YOU feel joyful. I booked my treatment.

The day of my treatment had been crazy; work stuff, domestic dispute, the feeling of ‘too much to do.’ Before arriving at Lisa’s house, I did message with her to warn her my ‘system’ was about to crash and that she would have her hands full. Lisa informed me she was up for the challenge, and so, as I lay on my back (fully clothed), the session began.

During the session, (which takes approximately an hour), Lisa and I chatted about the treatment. I began to relax and felt progressively calm during the treatment. Near the end of the treatment, Lisa asked me to indicate the barriers of my ‘presence’ – my ‘aura.’ I didn’t need to lift my arm too far from my side to show that I was pretty much just outside of my body. We talked about the ‘protective bubble’ and why it is limiting. People can stick things on your bubble when you remain so closed and guarded, and that is one way we adopt other people’s judgments as our own. Lisa talked me through an exercise to expand myself out into the universe; with no judgment and total acceptance. In doing so, one becomes like the wind where nothing can stick to you, and you can allow everything to flow through you. On my drive home, I felt energized, and my head was unclouded. I don’t like night driving yet this evening my vision was clearer than it had been during the day.

How does it get better than this? Show me!

Lisa suggested asking rhetorical questions and how to live in those questions, allowing the universe to bring endless possibilities. Leaving a question open to the Universe empowers us, creating, or imagining the response (whatever we expect that to be) disempower us. When you ask a question of the universe, not answering it can bring you possibilities that you could never have imagined. There is a realm of infinite possibilities available to us if we would just ask the question(s).

Lisa and I spoke about vision boards and how they are limiting. For example, you imagine your dream house and pin the photo of a specific house to your board. If you were asked to describe your dream house you might say ‘a two-story, country home with plenty of land somewhere in Ontario. If the person next to you was asked the same question, they might say ”a two-story, country home with a wraparound porch and a swing. The house would face west so I can enjoy the sunsets. There would be a detached workshop, 300 acres of land, a beautiful lake, and woodland on the property located in beautiful Muskoka, Ontario.   Even though, one is more specific both are answers. The Universe holds more possibilities than you could ever imagine. Instead of describing what we want, we could ask “in what house would I be happy living? We could go one step further, and say “show me my dream house.” Then see what shows up for you.

When speaking about New Year’s Resolutions, Lisa says, “When we make a “resolution” we put pressure on ourselves to meet these goals we set out for ourselves. When we don’t meet our goals or aspirations, we tend to create ourselves as “wrong” and we judge ourselves harshly. What if instead of making goals, we decide on a certain target. A target is something that you can aim for and shoot at as many times as you like. Sometimes you hit it and sometimes you don’t, but instead of “failing” when we miss, we get a chance to shoot again – making a different choice. We can adjust something, making it easier to hit the target.

Question to the Universe: “What energy, space and consciousness do I need to be in order to have all of this come to me with total ease and without limitation? Everything that is in the way and doesn’t allow that to show up, destroy and uncreate it. Right and wrong, good and bad, POD and POC, all nines, shorts, boys and beyonds.”

Wait. What???

Exactly. This last part is a code (HTML or css) for the human computer translated into English. Essentially, a batty bit map phrase created to trip the brain and cause it to ‘reboot.’ I looked up in confusion, when, near the end of my treatment Lisa spoke those words. My system had been rebooted, and I was virus free. I slept like a baby that night and woke feeling more refreshed than I had in ages.

How does it get better than this?

The following video link features practitioners of The Access Consciousness Bars and provide more in-depth testimony to the benefits of this treatment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRbzdlnWIQE

Visit Lisa on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/feelingreat.net?ref=bookmarksFeelin’ Great

Healing Centre – Woking, UK

http://www.naturalhealingcentre.com/pages/about.htm

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a complimentar treatment from Lisa Hill for posting an honest review of this service. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: #Sponsored, Be Brilliant, Believe, Niyamas, Yamas

LIGHTNING, THUNDER, REACTION!

November 27, 2013 | Leave a Comment

(Cue thunder and lightning)

The opening scene:

When lightning strikes, and thunder rolls, Henry takes cover, under the bed.

(Narrator)

There is nothing worse than feeling helpless, as a pet owner, when your companion is scared or ill.  I would try in vain, to coax my dog Henry, out of hiding and sit with him, reassuringly.  Henry would stay, reluctantly for a few moments, before slinking off my lap and crawling back under the bed skirt.  I felt so bad for this normally happy-go-lucky, playful dog, now reduced to a quivering, whining bundle of fur by the loud, clapping of thunder and bright, flashes of lightning.  There had to be something we could do for him.  In the meantime, we let him take refuge, if that made him feel safer; although, perhaps not so comfortable, as he had to flatten himself right down to squeeze into the space.

I don’t know when Henry started to be frightened of the storms; he’s not a fan of holiday fireworks, kites, or other articles that appear out of nowhere, and flap, or float about mysteriously.  That includes all inflatable Santas and reindeer that are everywhere, in the neighborhood, this time of year.

We administered ‘Rescue Remedy’ and played relaxing music throughout the house.  When those methods failed to make a difference, we visited the other end of the spectrum and did not give attention to the situation.  No matter what approach we took however, we still had an unhappy dog.

I’m a fan of ‘Tellington Touch,’ a practice, not unlike acupressure, which has proven to help with several behavioral issues, and illnesses.  Unfortunately, I’m not always in a position to stop what I’m doing, and practice the technique.

I had heard of the ‘Thundershirt’, similar to the aforementioned practices, in that it creates a comforting amount of pressure around the centre point of dogs, and cats.  I also read several positive reviews.  Every company is going to share positive reviews about their product.  I’m more of a ‘believe it when I see it’ kind of person.  After a particularly stormy season, I was more than ready to give it a try.  The following, is an account of our experience using thundershirts.

Wardrobe, please:

The stormy skies had cleared by the time I arrived home from work, picked up the pups and headed over to Pet Valu to purchase a Thundershirt for Henry.  The excitement of being in the retail environment distracted him and he was easily sized and fitted with his new shirt.  Or, maybe it was the Benny Bullies I purchased that had his attention.  I read online that it is best to start getting animals used to the shirt at a time when they are comfortable; not when a situation already has them scared/nervous and anxious.  Also, to associate happiness with the shirt (Benny Bully treats).

As instructed, I left the shirt on for a couple of hours and continued our routine as normal.  The bribing of treats worked.  Henry snapped out of the ‘grumps’ and practically flew onto the cocktail ottoman and had a big stretch, before I reminded him; he is not allowed on the ottoman.  After I removed the Thundershirt, I noticed that Henry started itching again.  This we assumed was due to seasonal allergies.  Could it have been a nervous itch?

Dress Rehearsal:

I came home from work, the following week and hung Henry’s shirt on the corner of the shoe rack in the closet.  After changing out of my work clothes, I called him over and showed him the Thundershirt.  He had a sniff and wandered off to find his toy.  A few minutes later, I called Henry over again and labeled the item ‘shirt’ and walked into the kitchen.  Naming actions and items, familiarizes dogs with these things.  I find this technique of association helpful, for positive communication.  Henry ran out of the room and dove onto the sofa.  “Here”, I called.  He came, and I immediately gave him a treat.  I fitted the shirt and gave him another.  It seemed I had hypnotized him; he became lethargic and glum as he’d been the week before.  The weather was also back to being cloudy, and I know animals are sensitive to storms.  Perhaps he could sense one was on its way.  After several takes of ‘hide-and-seek’, Henry was distracted from both the shirt and the impending storm.  When finally, the storm did announce itself, Henry looked up, startled momentarily, and remained on his own bed for several minutes, cuddling his stuffed toy.  Alas, the thunder got the better of him and once again, Henry disappeared under the bed.

Over the next few weeks, we continued fitting Henry in his shirt, so this became more of a routine and not associated with the things that make Henry nervous.  During these trials, I have noticed that Henry becomes quite relaxed and pays less attention to itching, caused by seasonal allergies.  In the past, I’ve resorted to using socks and dog t-shirts, to avoid ‘hot spots’ (caused by licking and chewing).  This result was an incredible bonus!

Our Ontario storms are generally not without warning.  I have my own built-in weather network; in addition to the sight of darkening skies, I can feel the pressure building, in my head.  Dogs, can also sense storms before they arrive.  We noticed Henry would become nervous and restless, before the first drops of rain fell, or claps of thunder could be heard.  Because we integrated the thundershirt during our everyday routine, Henry does not associate it with his fears. The severity of the storm, determines Henry’s whereabouts.  These days, for the most part, Henry is comfortable on top of the bed with his family, as opposed to hiding beneath it.  We like it much better too.

Thundershirt

No heckling please:

I had noticed, during our trial with Henry and his shirt, he seemed less interested in what was going on in the neighbourhood.  At least, he was much less vocal and seemed to keep his comments to a minimum.  Although confused by this, Henry’s sister Reese stepped out of her understudy role and performed a monologue.  Henry ad-libbed on occasion.

Act II

Henry’s leading lady:

We received a thundershirt, as a gift from Thunderworks,  for little Miss Reese.  I was very excited, about the arrival of the beautiful, hot pink, polo shirt and couldn’t wait, to return home, and try it on.  I mean, I couldn’t wait, to return home, and try it on Reese!

In true diva style, her tail wagged and she strutted around the house, performing to….well, Henry and I.  She loved her new shirt – hot pink, is definitely her colour.  No conditioning required for Reese.  Her shirt was definitely, a hit.

Live Audience:

Henry and I (supporting cast members), don’t really count, so we took the show on the road.  En route, we met several other dogs.  I held my breath as the scene unfolded before me; Reese was a superstar, taking her cue from Henry, the two of them walked nicely past the other dogs without any drama.

While I can’t say Reese has this act down pat quite yet, I definitely feel her performance is improving and her confidence grows, each time we rehearse.  She is definitely less reactive to other dogs and doesn’t turn and run in fear, quite so quickly.

Reese and Friends

Exit stage

Credits:

Henry – barking dog, frightened of thunder, lightning, and all flappy, inflatable things

Reese – barking dog, frightened of other dogs, and unfamiliar people

Wardrobe – Thundershirt, provided by ThunderWorks; www.thundershirt.com

Thundershirt Review:

Definitely, two paws up!

A dazzling performance by Henry and Reese.  Thunderworks, makes every matinee, an enjoyable experience.

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a complimentary Thudershirt from THUNDERWORKS for posting an honest review of this product. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: #Sponsored, Confident, Safe

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