Treat

EASY DIY SWEET POTATO TREATS FOR DOGS

September 24, 2021 | 6 Comments

OVEN & DEHYDRATOR OPTIONS

These homemade, one ingredient treats are a delicious, healthy option for dogs.

They also make a great gift!

My guys LOVE these treats, and I love that they are healthy. I admit to purchasing a bag of these when I haven’t had time to make them (dehydrating does take a bit of time), but they are costly (when you consider the price of the sweet potato), and I love putting my heart into making treats for my dogs.

Although they take a considerable amount of time, they are probably the easiest treats to make; simply slice and dehydrate.

Maybe I should have led with the time factor being mostly hands-free

For small to medium dogs, you might prefer to slice them into rounds (widthwise). Depending on the size of the potato, and for larger dogs, you can also slice lengthwise. I only give one of these treats each, per day and it takes them a while to get through them. They look forward to their sweet potato treat.

Each dog picks a spot in the house to chew their treat. I love watching them hold the slice in their paws and chew.

Directions:
-Rinse and scrub sweet potatoes
-Remove ends
-Slice widthwise or lengthwise, ensuring they are not thinner than 1/4″

I used a mandoline for slicing, resulting in consistent, 1/3″ slices. Any thinner, you’ll have chips, and thicker pieces will take forever to dehydrate and be tough.

The goal is to end up with a ‘dog chew’ treat

Oven:
It’s easy to dehydrate fruits and vegetables in the oven. Turn the oven to the lowest setting (200)

Dehydrate them in the oven on a lined pan for about six to eight hours, flipping halfway (at the three-hour mark), checking you’re on track for chewy pieces. Then inspect every 15-20 minutes until the desired level of chewiness is achieved.

Dehydrator:
Place the slices on the food dehydrator racks
Set the dehydrator to 135˚ F
Dry for six to seven hours, checking at six hours to test the chew factor.

Store sweet potato treats in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks.

I hope your pups love these fall coloured chew treats!

obx 2014 – a distant memory

December 27, 2014 | Leave a Comment

FEATURING THE COROLLA WILD HORSES

This year we did something a bit different for our holiday. A ‘family’ holiday. Not just the ‘Parker Pack’, the majority of the clan!

Sister, with her husband and two small children, picked Granny and Granddad up from the airport nearest them and also travelled by car to Outer Banks, North Carolina.

Henry, Reese, hubby and I packed up the truck and headed out to join them. We made one stopover en route just outside Washington. Next day we collected Father-in-law and his lady friend from the airport a little more than an hour from our rented accommodation. The long story version includes luggage issues and a second trip to the airport. We’ll stick with the shorter version.

My husband scored points for finding The Dolphin Inn. This beautiful seven bedroom home located in Southern Shores, North Carolina sleeps 17. Our group consisted of 8 adults, two children, and two dogs. Yes, The Dolphin Inn is Pet-friendly and has a Fenced-In Dog Kennel Area under Live Oak Tree for shade.

Staying at The Dolphin Inn is like staying at a friend’s place – and from now on when we visit, we will be staying at a friend’s place. Our host Jorge Herrada checked in with us to make sure we had everything we needed and provided so many suggestions regarding places to visit and things to see and do. Thank you, Jorge!

The layout is perfect – you certainly don’t feel as though you’re tripping over each other. The spacious kitchen, dining area with large table and plenty of seating and great room are all open on the top level. The great room boasts a selection of books, games, movies, a gas Fireplace, and a Large Screen Television with an abundant selection of Movie Channels (HBO, Showtime, Cinemax), a Tivo/DVR, and free Netflix shows. If you need to stay connected to work amenities also include free wireless internet. Budding astronomers in your group will enjoy the 70MM Refractor Telescope on the top level, set up to capture the galactic views on one of the many clear evenings.

The accommodation is situated just over a block to the ocean (a nice little walk with the dogs) and with decks framing the Inn, there is no shortage of picturesque views of the ocean. The Inn has a private pool, hot tub, volleyball court and pirate ship playhouse for the kids. View of deer not guaranteed but a definite bonus!

Windblown Pups

Guest privileges include Golf Club membership at the local Kilmarlic Golf Course, Bowling Club membership at the Outer Banks Bowling Center, as well as free boat launching at a nearby Marina. There is also free Tennis at the private tennis courts nearby and discounted rates on several other activities such as the wild horse tours.

We made several trips to visit the quaint town of Duck, which is located just over two miles North of Southern Shores. We rented kayaks from Kitty Hawk Kites (located in Duck) and enjoyed the beautiful views while burning off a few of the calories consumed at some of the local eateries.

One additional shop to mention is ‘Salty Paws Biscuits ‘ for All Natural Dog Treats!

Kitty Hawk, located just two miles south is convenient for groceries and other conveniences.

During our stay, we also visited Currituck Beach Light Station. Henry & Reese waited with Granny as John (hubby) and I ventured up the 220 steps to view the horizon at the top. It seems Henry & Reese were as much of an attraction to other visitors as the lighthouse! I’m sure Henry enjoyed the attention.

Lloyd Vernon Gaskill (and his companion) – Lighthouse Keeper 1939 – 1940

The one definite thing on my list to do was the Corolla Wild Horse tour. The Spanish Mustangs living in Outer Banks are the last in the world. We booked our tour with Corolla Outback Adventures. Proceeds from the tours are used to ensure the herd of wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs are protected, and responsibly managed. The tour company was founded by the Bender family who also generously donated a large portion of land on the northernmost Currituck Outer Banks where the horses roam freely.

Our history began in 1962 when the Benders began taking folks on tours from Kill Devil Hills to Corolla, there was no paved roads past Kitty Hawk to Duck, and phone numbers had 4 digits.

Over the years Corolla Outback Adventures has preserved a family history and tradition that was started in 1962 by my mother and father. Bender’s Beach Service guided fishing, hunting and sightseeing parties, sharing with them the beauty of the area we call home.

Growing up beyond where the road ends has given me an entirely different perspective. Things may change around us but this area remains timeless. Our family donated over 60 acres of land as a Wild Horse Sanctuary and we are fortunate to have exclusive access to observe them in their natural habitat.

I hope you’ll join us on our next OBX wild horse tour!

– Joan Bender, Owner & Jay Bender, Manager

Cattle Egrets perch on the backs of the wild Mustangs. The horses welcome them as the Egrets feast on bugs, horse flies, and ticks, keeping them away from the horses.

At one time (centuries ago), these tree stumps (buried far beneath the sand) were part of a Maritime Forest.

After the tour we enjoyed a beverage in the ‘Beer Garden.’
Henry & Reese were quite happy to relax at the Dolphin Inn when their people were out doing ‘people things.’ As you can see, there were plenty of opportunities to take them out (and wear them out) on other occasions. OBX offers the best of both worlds. A ‘dog-friendly’ holiday destination. We will visit again.

http://www.dolphininnobx.com/default.html

https://www.corollawildhorses.com/

http://corollaoutback.com/

http://www.corollabeergarden.com/

http://www.currituckbeachlight.com/

http://www.saltypawsbiscuits.com

THE NORTH POLE IS LOCATED IN TORONTO, ONTARIO

December 16, 2014 | 1 Comment

GIFT IDEAS (not just for Christmas)

I’m normally very organized when it comes to shopping, ordering, wrapping and shipping of Christmas gifts. Highly motivated by my lack of desire to bounce around like a pinball amongst the crowds; people that seem to appear from nowhere from mid-November.

For as long as the exhibition has been in existence, I have been building up the courage to attend the ONE OF A KIND SHOW. I was informed the event has the most incredible and unique items you could ever imagine – and I soon learned there are just as many you never would! The OOAK show, which takes place just before Christmas and again in the spring, is situated within the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto, Ontario. I’m located less than an hour north of the city yet never made it to the show – until this year! I’m such a fan I plan to go to the spring show too. And why not; as well as a day of fun with friends for me, the event supports local causes..

Give local when you purchase your ticket to the show and support Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter as our dedicated charity for Christmas 2014

I invited friends to join me and offset the experience of jostling around in the crowds with several laughs and perhaps and couple of Christmas cocktails. The organizors of the event know what they’re doing; the booths of more than 800 artisan exhibitors are lined up in rows from A – Z with fairly generous paths between the rows and separate break areas. No anxiety and no captive Ball today!

Here are some of our fun finds for the Pet-Lover’s on your list;

Made in Brockton Village
I learned a valuable lesson at the show; if you find something that resonates with you BUY IT! It most likely won’t be there when you make your way back to find it. LOVED the small vintage typewriter print on wood at ‘Made in Brockton Village.’

my quick pics do not do justice to these works of art. Please visit their website!

http://www.madeinbv.com

Dotti Potts – Sandra Silberman
I will definitely be purchasing a piece from Sandra. Decisions, decisions…

http://www.dottipotts.com

Romy + Jacob = Colour + Fun!

http://www.romyandjacob.com

Jacqueline Poirier

OMD!!! How fun are these? You can definitely look forward to learning more about Jacqueline (check back soon…)

http://www.jacquelinepoirier.com/

Ruckus Dog
Love vintage poster style!

http://www.ruckusdog.com

Sa Boothroyd

‘Home’ is on my bookshelf!

http://www.saboothroyd.com

Colours By Chris Artware

Milk jugs, coffee mugs and more!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Colours-By-Chris

Water In My Paint
Only a peak now – more later!

preview of future featured artist!

http://www.whenwatermeetspaint.com

Cat

Glass Blown Critters!

http://www.catherinelabonte.com

kiriki
Embroidery kits – of critters!

photo courtesy of kiriki

http://www.kirikipress.com

Birdhouses by Don Hudgin

(Montreal) 514-631-6416

The Silk Pulp

http://monoahn.com/Paper-cut-Illustration

SPARROW AVENUE
Beautiful soft furnishings

https://www.etsy.com/shop/sparrowavenue

Fusion Art – Art Glass by Nancy Legassicke
fusionartcanada@gmail.com

Magic Villa

ornaments, musical art, water bowls and more!

http://www.magicvilla.ca

Even though Santa travels the world to deliver gifts, he need only visit the One Of A Kind Show to find something for everyone on his list (naughty or nice)!

Captive ball
A pinball trapped within a small area of the playfield. The captive ball never leaves this area, and the free ball can never enter it. However, the free ball can knock into the captive ball, which in turn can knock into targets in its area. Some tables even feature multiple stacked captive balls (e.g. Judge Dredd, Theatre of Magic).

http://www.oneofakindshow.com/artisans

http://www.oneofakindshow.com/toronto/index.php

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

PARTY GUESTS

November 23, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Halloween Party Guests

Party Guests

Gus reminds me of our neighbor dog ‘Chap.’ Notice the (left) paw? It’s not a handshake position, it’s a “hey; you stopped paying attention to me” pat. The behaviour frustrates to his parents who apologetically try to correct it. I consider it part of his charm.

Gwen is quite like one of the other three Golden Retrievers that live on our Street. Most days when we walk Henry and Reese, the Goldens run to the fence (just as in the image below) to say “Hello” to us. Reese slows her pace deliberately in anticipation of a group discussion. The Golden’s family are also Foster Carers for Golden Rescue.

Merlin (the Magician) is another story completely!

Leanne, a fellow volunteer at Georgina Animal Control was one of the first people to hear this story, she listened patiently until it was over and then she asked ‘do you have a Merlin?’ I did not. Leanne informed me there had been a mixed-breed adopted from our local shelter, and that he was now called Merlin. Leanne put me in touch with Merlin’s mom Sarah, who also listened to the story, and agreed that I should feature her Merlin in the book. Sarah informed me she is a Marketing Designer and Graphic Designer and that she and her team would be happy to help with marketing and provide and design the book template. It’s almost like Merlin waved his wand and everything just WAS!

Eva the Ghost and Betty the Bee

When I was a little girl, my dad bought my mom a timid little beagle named Wimpy (read more about Wimpy in a future post).

Henry borrowed Betty’s costume and Reese is a ‘mini’ Paige

There is no such thing as white – at least not that I found in watercolour painting. In order to show the creases and folds in Eva’s ghost costume, I had to add various shades of grey. The same with Betty’s white bits which we can imagine were in the shadows. I have learned a lot about the process of translating watercolour artwork to print-ready book files. White does not translate well for a start!

See book for completed illustration.

http://www.goldenrescue.ca/

http://www.eventsbysarah.ca/

MERRY FETCHING CHRISTMAS – TO ME!

January 12, 2014 | 2 Comments

I love coming home to surprise parcels, and the one waiting on the doorstep the week after Christmas, was particularly special.

The tee in the envelope was inspired by my rescued, canine nephew Jeffrey.

Special Delivery

Jeffrey is featured in the colourful logo in this line of apparel, aptly named ‘Fetching Apparel’. Helping to reduce the homeless pet population, 40% of profit is donated to spay/neuter programs and animal rescue operations.

Live your dreams!

Sign up to receive notice of future posts by email, or check back often to learn how you can win a ‘Fetching Apparel’ t-shirt.

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received the t-shirt featured above from FETCHING APPAREL 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.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM PETBOX

January 8, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Tails are Wagging and PetBox would like to offer a 20% discount to followers of our blog. Visit http://getpetbox.com/ and enter discount code “WAGGING20”. Check back regularly, or sign up for email updates to find out how you can WIN a PetBox. I admit that I spoil my dogs. Deservedly so! They make every day brighter by giving me so many reasons to laugh and endless cuddles. I don’t have children, however, I am blessed with two nephews, and three nieces – one, is baby powder new. Sadly, they don’t live nearby. I have fun coming up with cute outfits and fun games to send the kids, and although most of them are too young to contact us themselves, moms and dads reach out via skype for that visual/auditory connection. It has become a tradition, for me to spend Christmas eve. stitching up Henry and Reese’s ‘well-loved’ toys. They don’t mind. In fact, they love seeing these recycled play things; some minus arms, legs, and quite likely without squeakers, post- surgery. I’m sure they remember their old favourites. I wasn’t very organized this year, and only managed to stitch up a few. I was thrilled when Lilli from PetBox contacted me and asked if I would like to review their product. PetBox is the perfect gift box for pets. The PetBox arrived on a day that my husband and I had both been working. We have a dog walker visit, however, Henry and Reese still have so much energy after lounging around most of the day. I came in and dumped my bags and keys. Before even taking my coat off I teased the pups by showing them the box and announcing ‘toys and treats’. They danced around, tails wagging, barking loudly as if telling me to hurry up and take my coat and boots off.

I’ll do whatever it takes for this cookie.

PetBox is a monthly delivery service that introduces fun and healthy new pet products to its members each month. You can personalize your subscription by selecting items to pack in your PetBox each month. Products that make sense for your furry family. There are several items that won’t aggravate allergies. Henry quite happily gobbled up the ‘Smooches’, a wheat-free cookie made by The Honest Kitchen. Reese is very fussy when it comes to treats but is a fan of the little pumpkin, ginger flavor ‘Barkers’ by Healthy Dogma. These adorable bone shaped bites are the perfect size for her. No food aggression issues with these treats (that is a treat for me). The PetBox pet experts scour the planet looking for only the best products to offer its members. You won’t find thousands of products to choose from, rather only products that make your furry friend’s life more healthy and enjoyable. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/dogs-cease-unhealthy-relationships-mailmen-233900982.html;_ylt=A2KJ3CaxVY5SYgcAPf7QtDMD

Reese’s favourite pieces

PetBox was a huge hit and so much fun; a Christmas stocking in a box! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KY1zN1_Umg I love that I’m able to select the contents of each box, which means different surprises each month. In fact, this is a great, unique gift idea for friends with pets. The generosity will be appreciated by your friends, their pets, and the shelter animals who also benefit from your participation in this wonderful program. PetBox Fridays is another way to give back by going online and voting for a shelter of the week. For more information on this charity visit http://getpetbox.com/we-give-back.html PetBox was a huge hit and so much fun; a Christmas stocking in a box! Here is a peak at the premium products we received in our PetBox; The Honest Kitchen Smooches – $7.99 Retail

Smooches are made with ingredients that are 100 percent human grade, including barley flour, USDA chicken, molasses, filtered water, eggs, organic virgin coconut oil, cranberries, and aged parmesan cheese. www.thehonestkitchen.com

Clear Conscience Sliders & Tenderstikz – $11.99

These are the first tender moist pet treats with NO glycerin or “vegetable” glycerin, NO propylene glycol, and NO sugars or syrups. And because it’s a Clear Conscience product, of course you WON’T find any grains, gluten meals, or other high carb “fillers.” www.clearconsciencepet.com

Aussie Naturals Duck Toy – $14.99 Retail

High tensile strength Jutey Cotton rope makes up his neck and legs, over which layers of Jute Fabric cover a body filled with Coconut Fiber. It is all topped off with Jute Fabric Wings and a ridiculously tough Leather Head for a mixture of scents & textures that is hard to kill. www.aussienaturals.us

KeepDoggieSafe.com Pet Rescue Decal – $5.99 Retail

The Rescue Decal is a weatherproof window decal intended for exterior use in case of fire or other emergency to notify emergency workers that there are pets inside your house that need to be rescued. www.keepdoggiesafe.com Earth Heart Canine Calm Spray – $12.99 Retail The natural remedy mist can be sprayed directly onto cloth, skin or fur without staining or leaving a sticky residue. Dog lovers and professionals recommend Canine Calm as a safe and effective natural remedy for over 90% of dogs who experience whimpering, cowering, trembling, panting, pacing, drooling, barking, shaking, vomiting and other signs of upset during non-routine activities, and fearful or unsettling times. www.earthheartinc.com NoviPet Multi Vitamin

NoviPet was launched with one sole purpose: to make healthy supplements tasty and fun for dogs and cats, just like treats. NoviPet Multi Vitamin Chews for Dogs provides the essential nutrients for optimal pet health. www.novipet.net

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a complimentary box of goodies from PETBOX 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.

janet hill art – cards I love

December 24, 2013 | Leave a Comment

May your stocking be filled with all the treats you wish for!

We received this is beautiful card from my parents. I have an appreciation for the arts and was thrilled to learn this was the creation of a local (Ontario) artist, Janet Hill. I look forward to introducing you to Janet and her portfolio early in the new year.

In the meantime, I can’t help smiling when I walk by this card. Although adorable, I can’t think what made my mom think of us when she found it……..

Happy Holidays!

themes – cards I love

December 19, 2013 | Leave a Comment

One of the most interesting things about the season, to me, is opening cards. Did the sender choose a design that reminded them of the recipient? Or, perhaps it is a reflection of the sender.

I was thrilled to find this Carlton Cards collection at Walmart!

Dogs, cats, boutiques, Ontario snow, skating on Lake Simcoe, one of my favourite cities, New York can be seen in the background of one of the cards.

Hope it snows joy all through your holidays.

Celebrate the hope, joy, and wonder of Christmas all year long.

Happy everything, everywhere, to everyone this Christmas – and especially to you and yours!

Enjoy all of the fun and excitement of the season.

Surprise to anyone who hasn’t received their card from me yet – oops!

DOGGY DESSERT CHEF

January 29, 2013 | 1 Comment

Henry, Reese, Buddy & Holly, (not so) patiently waiting for treats

I don’t know who was happiest about the discovery of this AMAZING website, Henry, Reese or me! Regardless, we have all benefited and continue to share the goodness with others. My office held a bake sale recently (we raised a fair amount of money for families in need during Christmas). Instead of making traditional treats for people, I decided I would do little packages for pets. They were gone in no time and following the bake sale I had people commenting on how much the dogs loved the treats. I’m sure doggy dessert chef has a number of new fans!

I work full-time and spend some of my ‘spare time’ volunteering at a local shelter. Although I have dog-walkers come to visit Henry and Reese, I want to make the most of the time I have with them. Thankfully I am able to multi-task so I don’t lose momentum playing fetch and rolling out cookie dough.

I like to think my guys know I make these wonerful baked delights especially for them. They seem so appreciative. Most likely it’s the taste of the goodies! I feel comfortable sharing these treats, knowing what ingredients go into them. Henry has food sensitivities and there have been so many sad and scary stories of tainted treats causing illness and an overwhelming number of fatalities (see ).

doggy dessert chef has obviously spent a great deal of time researching the recipes and has them organized according to ingredients AND special considerations such as allergies/sensitivities.

I am so happy to have found this site and share it with you. I have no doubt your dogs – and cats (Charlie Bear LOVES a number of items on the menu) will be equally delighted when sampling the delicous treats.

Our compliments to the chef!!!
Please check out this site;
http://doggydessertchef.com/

My ‘Fabulous’ Apron was a gift from Buddy and Holly’s mom. I absolutely love their fun products and philosophy. Check them out; http://www.femfab.com/AboutUs.html

resolutions 2013 – dog lessons for people

January 2, 2013 | 2 Comments

I wish I knew the wise person who wrote this;

Enjoy the simple pleasures of a walk.
Follow your instincts.
Never underestimate the value of a belly rub.
Be loyal and faithful.
Always drink plenty of water.
Sometimes it is best to just sit close and listen.
Be quick to forgive.
Avoid biting when a growl will do.
Keep digging until you find what you want.
Run and play daily.
Accept all of life’s treats with gratitude.
Life is short, pet often.
Love unconditionally.

EASY DIY SWEET POTATO TREATS FOR DOGS

obx 2014 – a distant memory

THE NORTH POLE IS LOCATED IN TORONTO, ONTARIO

Give local when you purchase your ticket to the show and support Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter as our dedicated charity for Christmas 2014

PARTY GUESTS

MERRY FETCHING CHRISTMAS – TO ME!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM PETBOX

janet hill art – cards I love

themes – cards I love

resolutions 2013 – dog lessons for people

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