DIY Popsicles or Should we Say Pupsicles for Dogs

 Dogs feel the heat like we do, and when we crave a cold treat maybe your dog would love one too!

You can do the basic treats of freezing dog food, or broth, but I found this awesome recipe that your pooch is sure to love, with simple clean ingredients.

What you Will Need for PUPSICLES!!:

1 x large banana cut into pieces

4 x tablespoons peanut butter

4 x cups of plain yogurt ( use the nonfat one if your dog is a bit "pudgy")

Some favourite dog biscuits for the sticks

Popsicle molds or ice cube trays

Method:

Step 1:  Mix all the ingredients (except the biscuits) in a blender or food processor until creamy.

Step 2:  Pour into molds.

Step 3:  Use the dog biscuits as the "stick" for the popsicle.

Step 4:  Freeze overnight or at least 4-5 hours.

Step 5:  Take out of mold and give to your dog to enjoy!  Preferably outside with you so the drips are contained to the outdoors.  

You can change of the ingredients if you prefer other flavours for your dog. You could add crumbled bacon, or take the biscuits and add as a crunch topping before freezing.

Let your poochie enjoy the cool treats on that hot day with PUPSICLES you have made with love.

You can use your ice cube trays, or you can get dog specific molds that can be frozen into dog themed treats below online:

Cool down this summer with some cool treats for you and your best friend!

Homemade Dog Popsicle Frozen Treat for Those Hot Days

Easy and Nutritious Dog Popsicle

If you are feeling the heat and looking for a cold treat then you can imagine just how your furry doggy is feeling!

I came across this recipe and love it because you can change up ingredients depending on what you have on hand or your dog's preferences.

Ingredients

• I x Cup Frozen Banana Bits or Slices  (slice that older banana instead of throwing it away and place in freezer in a bag to have ready for this recipe)
• 
  
• 1 x Cup Frozen Strawberry Slices
• 
  
• 2 x Tablespoons of Plain Greek Yogurt, or water if your pooch can't tolerate dairy.
• 
  
• Dog Biscuits for the Sticks.

Method:

Step 1 - Blend the bananas, strawberries and yogurt (or water) until the consistency of a smoothie.

Step 2 - Pour into Popsicle molds and freeze for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3 - Take out of freezer and add the biscuits to the center as sticks and refreeze again for overnight.  They will have the frozen treat and finish off with a biscuit.

If you Don't Have Popsicle Molds...

You can simple use your ice cube trays and make smaller versions or just the cubes and place in their bowl.

Messy!

Warning, these can get messy, so make sure your pooch enjoys them outdoors in a shady spot.  It is nice to have these in the freezer for such days.

Some people feed their dogs their own ice cream treats, but dog's have to be careful with chocolate and sugar, so these more natural treats are sure to be enjoyed by your doggy.

Mix and Match Fruits to Your Dogs Tastes

If your dog doesn't like strawberries but likes blueberries, switch it up.  This recipe is so straightforward even us humans would enjoy this sans the dog biscuit unless you like those too!

Mix a Larger Batch for Your Dog and a Batch for Yourself

For the human version you could use chocolate fingers for the stick, or simply use Popsicle sticks.  This can be a fun and cool nutritious treat for everyone including the kids and super good for you with natural sweetness from the fruits!

Keep your dog comfortable this summer, with shade, cool treats and sunglasses to protect those eyes from aging.

How to Clean Pet Urine Stains in Carpet with Vinegar - YES it Works

With most of us staying home now to keep our families safe, we sometimes forget that changes in routine affect our pets.

Pets who are used to a set routine may feel off and anxious, and this many times leads to "accidents" on the carpet.

When I headed to the grocery store for my groceries, I noticed the entire cleaning aisle shelves were empty, not just the toilet paper!!  Everything was gone... even the carpet stain removers!

So, if you are in this position, or simply want to use what you have at home, then follow this formula.

Removing Pet Urine From Carpet

What You Will Need:

• White Vinegar
• Paper towels, or old cloth towels (we keep some for drying off the dogs)
• Baking Soda

Step 1 - Blot up as much as you can with paper towels or thick old towels.

Step 2 - Place a full/heavy plastic tub on top of these towels as the extra weight will soak up even more of the urine.

Step 3 - Check for color fastness in a spot behind the couch or TV by placing a couple of drops of vinegar.  Most carpets, will not run.

Step 4 - Mix equal parts of white vinegar with water.

Step 5 - Saturate the stain by pouring some of the solution right onto the spot.  It will follow the path the urine did.

Step 6 - Let it sit 10 minutes.

Step 7 - Follow the same steps as above for blotting up the vinegar solution, including placing a weight of some kind on the towels to soak up as much as possible.

Step 8 - When there is nothing more to soak up, sprinkle with baking soda

Step 9 - Wait an hour and then vacuum.

Note:  This also works for puke, Cat and Kid stains too!

My grandmother swore by vinegar, and I have always had a jug of it in the house for cleaning floors and windows, but I never really thought of it as a heavy duty cleaner, but it does wonders!

A Couple More Awesome Cleaning Jobs for Vinegar!

Sink Drains

With us all being home, we are cooking more and the kitchen is getting lots of use.  The sink drains started getting a little "ripe"

Pour 1 cup of white vinegar down the drain and wait 30 minutes then flush with water.

Coffee Pots!

Is your coffee maker taking way to long to brew your coffee?  It may be clogged up with calcification from way more use than usual.

Fill the reservoir with at a few cups of vinegar and run it as usual.

Then rinse and clean the coffee pot and run clean water through.  It should be good to go!

Try To Avoid Being in the Stores as Much as Possible..Get Creative at Home with What You Have or Order online...

YES you can even order vinegar online below:

Try to order as many things online as you can to limit the amount of times you head to any store. There are some delays, but it will get to you!

DIY Small Dog Carrier - Easy Craft for Your Special Pooch on the Cheap

If you are the parent of a small dog that loves to go everywhere, then check out this simple craft ideas for a DIY dog carrier or sling using a simple fabric tote bag on the cheap.

All you need are a few supplies that you may already have, check out this HGTV video..  obviously you can use any tote bag, but you will get the idea!

Create a warm and safe environment with these simple adjustments to any fabric tote bag you may have.  You could make a few of these so that you can "wash and wear" as they get dirty.

This is definitely a reuse and recycle project.  I don't know about you, but my closet seems to be multiplying with fabric tote bags as I sometimes forget to bring them with me when shopping and end up with more!

The fabric totes are super strong, so no worries about losing FIDO!

Gift Idea!

If you have small dog parents on your list, this would make an awesome gift idea.  You could use a new plain fabric tote bag and add an iron on picture of the pet or some words of your own to personalize it.

Pets love to go everywhere with you and it can be hard for small dogs to keep up on a leash, this way they are comfy and cozy as in the video, she adds a comfy bottom to the tote.

There is a safety harness and a snap (that you add) to keep pooch in the tote and safe. 

Now he can go everywhere with you!

Not into DIY??

IF you are not big on DIY but love the idea of a tote or a sling so you can take your dog everywhere, then check out this sling idea online.




Having the strap on the opposite shoulder will disperse the weight and be more comfy.

The sling idea is definitely hands free, leaving both your hands available as the pouch or sling sits more in front.

I think both above ideas are awesome for your walks, and also for the grooming visits or the Veterinarian visits to keep your little guy less anxious.

Travel Bag for Small Animals up to 8 Pounds

If you are doing a lot of traveling by car, you cannot obviously wear the sling or the DIY tote carrier above, you will need a small travel carrier to keep them safe.

This one is equipped with a seat belt and luggage strap to keep them safe in the car.  This one is for tinier dogs up to 8 pounds, and is very popular on AMAZON right now.





This particular soft sided small travel carrier has over 2000 positive reviews (at the time of this writing)

If you travel with your tiny best friend, then you should be equipped with the best safety equipment to keep him/her safe.  A travel carrier for the car and a DIY tote carrier or purchased sling for out and about.

I have seen so many drivers with their little dogs loose in the car or sitting on their laps while driving.  Even if you have to suddenly stop, their tiny little bodies would go flying.  This is NOT a safe option.

Get them used to an open sided travel carrier such as the one above that can be strapped in and keep them safe.  This way they can still see.  Add their favorite blanket or toy to keep them calm.

By getting the right size, they will feel cozier and not slide all over the place.

Enjoy getting out with your small dog!

Small Dog Carrier Sling - Take Your Fur Babies Everywhere for Under 30 Bucks

Take Your Fur Babies With You!

I took my dog to the dog park and saw this gentleman scoop up his small dog and simply place him in a carrier sling and walked home after fun time.

I have seen backpacks that look awkward but this sling idea looked comfy for the dog and the guy.

Obviously small dogs cannot walk as far as you can, and after a romp in the park they are tired.  He was equipped with a portable water dish, and was wearing this sling that I didn't notice right away until it expanded with his dog in it.

FurryFido Pet Sling Carrier

It seems like such a simple way to carry your pets.  It is placed across your body instead of on your back and is totally washable.  This doesn't put as much pressure on your back and this way you can actually see your pet and touch him.

This works best for cats or dogs up to 15 pounds.  This is an awesome way to leave the car at home and simply walk to the park.  You get the exercise and so does he for under 30 bucks!

If you have tinier pets....

Carrier for Pets Up to 12 Pounds

Alfie Pet - Chico Reversible Pet Sling Carrier

As you can see in the pictures you can even take them for a bike ride with these carriers.  Now you can take your tiny little guy out for some fresh air, walking, hiking and whatever you want to do and spend time with him/her together.

I just think this style of carrier is easier on the body then the full form ones that fit on your back or the ones that look like baby carriers with the dog not in the most comfy position.  The dogs look happy in these.

...Or Make Your Own Carrier Sling

The first two slings are the best rated right now online, and are 30 bucks or less, but you can also make your own if you prefer.

Either way, creating a way to take your pet with you outdoors will create bonding time and enjoyment for both of you.

Dog Throwing Up? - Try a Raised Dog Bowl and a Slow Feeder Bowl

If you have a medium to tall dog and throwing up after they eat or burping has become a problem, then consider trying a raised dog bowl . before spending too much on different brands of food.

Our dog used to love laying on the floor to eat.  He was quite lazy that way, but at a 100 pounds, it was not good for his digestion.  There was constant burping and passing of gas and yes, throwing up undigested food within a minute of eating.

If your dog lays down, or even when standing has to put their head lower than their body to eat out of a bowl on the floor, there is a chance that food will simply come back up.

There are a couple of ways to deal with this.  Using Raised Dog Bowls, and/or Slow Eating Bowls.

A few simple tweaks in the way they eat, could stop the right after meals vomiting from either eating too fast or floor level bowls.

Adjustable Raised Dog Bowls

By raising the level of the bowls, they are not having to lover their head so much to eat. This will also stop them from laying on the floor to eat too (like my dog did). It helps with digestion, especially for a tall dog.

Eating Too Fast?

If the problem with your dog is he/she eats like they are never going to be fed again, and then promptly burps and throws it up, then check out these slow eating bowls.

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

This will slow down any size of dog... up to 10x slower, so that they actually digest their food...

So, if you have noticed that your otherwise healthy dog throws up mostly undigested food (and usually they do it somewhere like a rug or the carpet!) and you are concerned they are not getting enough nutrition and also done with the cleanup involved, then consider investing in either or both above.

I found these ones online for an affordable price.  If this doesn't work then obviously they need to be checked by a Veterinarian, but it is something to try, to make meals easier and slower.

There are over 9000 great reviews for the slow eating bowl, and over 1200 great reviews for the raised dog bowls.

Depending on your dog, this could be the answer you are looking for.  The slow feeder stops them from taking huge mouthfuls.

DIY Ideas for Gulping and Raising the Bowls

1.  For Fast Eaters - If you are more of a DIY person, and don't want to get rid of your present pet bowls, then consider adding a plastic washable ball to the dog bowl so that they have to eat around it.  This will slow them down.  Some people have even used smooth rocks in the center.

2.  Make Your Own Raised Feeder From a Crate

Check out the video below to make your own raised feeders, using your present bowls.

This is a super cute craft!

When dogs gulp their food too fast, or eat at the wrong angle they swallow more air, which can cause bloat, gas and nasty air!  This can cause serious medical issues for your family pet.

It is worth a try!

If you keep changing foods thinking that is the problem, it may just be the way they eat.  It also becomes a habit.  So forcing them to slow down and eat at the right angle might just be the answer and you can stop investing in all those different foods!

Our dog has a raised feeder, it not only slows down her eating but keeps the bowls in place instead of skittering all over the floor.

On a side note:  Our cats seem to love standing up to this raised feeder to drink from the water bowl, so maybe this might be a great idea for cats too!

DIY Dog Toys - From Old T-Shirts - Upcycle

Dogs are part of the family and also love receiving toys for Christmas, birthdays or just because.  But they can also get expensive.  So if your dog tires easily of expensive ones, why not try the homemade dog toy route?

This short video should get you inspired if you were not sure where to start.  Simply gather some old t-shirts that are beyond being donated, and upcycle them into these super cute dog gift ideas.


Dollar Tree Weekly Ad

The dollar tree can be your best friend when it comes to getting creative.  You can get packs of tennis balls there and even some t-shirts if you simply don't have any to donate to the project.  (wash well in hot water first)

All you need is your t-shirts, tennis ball and a sharp pair of scissors.  Mixing the colors of shirts makes them look colorful.  This is such a cool way to get you inspired to clean out the closet or drawers of your old cotton tees.  To make room for more of course!

Dog Gift Ideas

If you have friends with dogs, then make a few of these toys to give as gifts.   Make sure and wash old t-shirts in hot soapy water first, even your old ones to make them fresh for their chewing pleasure.

This is a lot of fun, and you can get the family involved.  Just create a space on the table and get cutting and braiding.  Hopefully this inspires you to have a clean out and let your dog benefit!

DIY Dog Sling - Support Your Older Dog with a Grocery Bag Dog Sling

Homemade Dog Sling

As our dogs age, their legs may not carry them like they used to.

I always found with my dog Sasha that stairs were the worst, and she was too heavy to carry.  So instead of sleeping in my room at night as she always had, she stayed downstairs, which caused stress.

You can purchase dog slings, but I came across this video that shows you how to make a very simple one that costs you NOTHING (if you have those reusable shopping bags at home) and can save your back.

Check it out:

DIY Shopping Bag Dog Sling/Harness

You simply cut out the sides of the bag (instruction in this quick video) and then you can give your dog some support, whether the issue is with the rear legs or the front legs. 

This will also be easier on your own back especially if you are trying to navigate stairs with your dog.  This can be a dangerous scenario if your pooch is not confident on the stairs.  He/she may panic and either fall or pull you as well.

Simply hanging onto their collar is not enough.  That puts you at a bent position.  If you use some kind of harness (homemade or purchased) this will keep you upright and save your back. 

Senior Dog Moments

If you have a senior dog, there is this site that caters to older dogs to help give them an awesome retirement and let you enjoy their old age too! 

Some things are investments like ramps and other aids, but some are homemade such as the above DIY grocery bag sling.  Worth checking it out.

Get More Life Out of Your Senior Dog

Many older dogs will quickly limit their activities if they don't feel confident, which can lead to depressions. 

As the dog parents you will be aware that he/she has slowed down on their usual walks.  Get them checked out at Veterinarian and if he tells you it is simply age.  Then check out the site above for ideas and products that can help your older dog have a happy and pain free retirement.

Alter a Few Routines to Aid Your Older Dog

You may need to change a few procedures in your day, such as an extra pee break during the day, maybe change the food to a more senior formula to help with digestion or add some glucosomine for aching joints, breaking up the walks into shorter ones... 

Just like us humans, things can change as we age, so if we keep on top of the changes, then our beloved pooches can be happy, healthy and strong well into their golden years.

Easy Homemade Dog Treats - 5 Ingredients

As I wandered the aisles of the Pet Store, I was surprised at just how expensive dog treats were.

It all adds up and I didn't recognize all of the ingredients!

I decided it was time to try making my own homemade dog biscuits.

After a few attempts, I have found what I consider to be the perfect dog treat recipe and chances are you have these ingredients on hand right now.

Our dog absolutely loves cheddar cheese, so these worked out quite well.

CHEESE DOG BISCUIT RECIPE

1 x Beef or chicken bouillon cube

1/2 cup hot water (to dissolve the cube)

1 x egg

1-1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Method:

Step 1 - Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2 - Dissolve cube in the 1/2 cup of hot water

Step 3 - Measure flour into a mixing bowl

Step 4 - Add the bouillon water mixture and egg to the flour

Step 5 - Mix well

Step 6 - Add in shredded cheese

Step 7 - Knead until a ball forms (about 3 minutes or so)

Step 8 - On a lightly floured board, roll out dough to approx 1/4 inch thick

Step 9 - Cut into shapes.  I didn't have a shaped cutter so I used a shot glass to make round circles.

Step 10- Line a cookie pan with parchment paper and place biscuits about 1/2 inch apart.

Step 11- Bake for 20-30 minutes - until lightly brown.

I prefer the dog biscuits to be crunchy, so I left them sit on the baking sheet until they were completely cooled.   I then placed them in a cookie tin just for our dog Kahlua.

As you can see by the picture, I used a shot glass to shape them as I didn't have a bone shaped cutter.  But they turned out so well that is my next investment!

She totally enjoyed them.  So for my next batch I invested in a bone shaped cutter for the homemade dog treats.

Perfect Gift Ideas for the Dog Lovers on Your List

Creating your own gifts, not only saves money, but shows that you care.  It takes time to create gifts, so start early and you could present these in small cookie jars or tins from the dollar tree or decorate your own tin.

Create Different Shapes

You can get super cute dog treat shape cutters that can make your gift super cute.

After the first time I made them, it became very easy to make more.

You can change up the flavors by adding different cheeses such as a sharp cheddar instead of medium, or use whole grain flour instead of white.

I also have a super cool Peanut Butter Dog Biscuit Recipe if you would prefer just CLICK HERE and see it.

How to Make a Dog Treat Jar - Using Dollar Store Supplies

Check out this video to get cool ideas for a treat jar that looks awesome on your counter or perfect for gifts filled with the above treats that you have made.

This should get the creative juices flowing.  You don't need to spend a lot to give your dog or loved ones dogs nice treats and their own treat jar.

Don't forget about the pets when it comes to gift giving or even a hostess gift especially if they are super dog lovers.

How to Make Halloween Dog Treats - Quick and Easy Recipe

Dog owners know that chocolate can be a serious hazard for our poochies, but wouldn't it be nice if you could still let them join in the spirit of the night with a simple to make Halloween Dog Treat?

As long as your dog can tolerate plain greek yogurt (most doggies can) then let them enjoy!

What you will need:

2 x cups of natural Greek Yogurt (no sugars or flavours added, it needs to be plain)

1 x medium ripe banana (no green bananas here!)

1/3 cup of peanut butter

1 x tablespoon of honey (optional)

Method:

Dump everything into a food processor or blend well with a mixer.  It needs to be totally blended.

Pour into silicone (or non stick) molds.

Freeze for at least an hour

Serve!

This would be a great idea as a doggy treat for visiting parents who bring their dog along with them all dressed up for Halloween.  

It is nice to give them a treat too!  Of course always ask the dog owner if you can give them a frozen treat, and let them know what is in the treat.

When they have their very own treat, they will not keep bugging for the kids goodies. 

These can be eaten by people too, as the ingredients are natural, but it is nice to keep them for your dogs.  I like the silicone mold above as the frozen treats are not huge.

Halloween Dog Treats For Sale

If you don't want to make your own, you can also purchase ready made doggy treats online.  This is so cute especially if your dog loves to dress up and be a part of the festivities.  You can also hand out these little bags to friends and neighbours who stop by on Halloween Night.

Your dog is part of your family, it is nice to give them affordable little treats that are designed for them and won't upset their digestive systems.

Have a Bowl of Doggy Bones or Your Homemade Treats Ready to Hand Out for the Four Legged Trick or Treaters!

Organize an area at the door where you will be giving out the goodies so that your candies for kids are easy to grab.  Example:  I pour mine into a large salad bowl so it is easy to grab and I can see how many are left.

Also have a bowl of small dog bone treats either purchased or homemade and if you like the above recipe, a cooler bag with freeze packs inside to keep the yogurt/peanut butter treats frozen.

I am sure the dog owners would love the idea of their doggy having a treat so they can join in.  They can eat it right there and then.

So many dogs are dressing up for the occasion and so adding some Halloween dog treats to the night will certainly get a tail wag I am sure!  Who could refuse their cute faces!

Best Small Dog Halloween Costumes - Top 5 Under 30 Dollars

Rather than leaving your small dog at home while you take the kids around door to door this Halloween, why not dress him/her up to join in the festivities?

You don't have to spend a lot, so here are some of the best small dog Halloween costumes available online right now.  Get shopping early!






Number 1 - Wonder Woman Costume

✅This one is super cute and comes in different sizes. Check out the pet size chart to make sure you get the right size. But for under 20 bucks (sale right now!) you can dress up your pet.

Number 2 - Shark Costume


✅This is an awesome idea especially if there is a nip in the air on Halloween night. Cool shark look and warm. Check the size chart as well and as many right now, there is a sale.

Number 3 - Stegosaurus

✅Little bit more money, but cute design and effective looking fabric.  This is foam padded for comfort and some warmth.

Number 4 - Tarantula

✅Fuzzy and furry and super realistic spider hair and it has the dangling legs.  Something a little different.

Number 5 - Lady Bug

✅As cute as a button!  Soft and plumb 3D body with glitter mesh wings.  It comes with an antenna and head piece for an authentic look.  You small dog doesn't have to be scary to join in, just cute as a button!

Above are the Top 5 Small Dog Costumes for Halloween this Year under 30 Bucks. 

If you shop early you can get some of the sales, but the longer you wait the prices tend to go up the closer you get to the event day.  I have found Amazon to carry a huge assortment of fun wear for dogs of all sizes.  I have been talking about small dogs in this post, but you can get lots of costumes for larger dogs too and your cats if they are willing!

Follow Size Charts

Just make sure and follow the size charts for any of the costumes that tend to be more fitted.  If you have a favorite store you shop at, check their presence online as many stores cannot carry a huge stock so they will also sell online.

Small Dog Halloween Costumes DIY

If you prefer to make your own, there are lots of ideas and patterns online too.  The Simplicity Pattern contains costumes for both cats and dogs.  If you love to sew, then something like this might be more to your liking.

Cat wear and dog wear are fun for anytime of year, but especially Halloween! You could meet kids at the door with yourself dressed up and your pet.

If you don't like the idea of sewing too much and want something simple, then check out this video for more ideas.

These are fun ideas that won't take more than an afternoon to put together.  It also depends on the personality of your dog and just how much he likes to wear clothes or dog wear.

Many small dogs are used to cold weather wear so they would embrace wearing a costume.

What if Your Dog Hates Costumes or Cothes?

Try a simple themed bandanna rather than a full on outfit.  These are super cute and quick to put on.  Just don't have it too tight.  Most doggies would wear one of these.  You know your dog's personality best.  Some small poochies love to show off a new outfit, where as others try to rip it off as soon as they can.  Either way you can still get into the spirit of the night with the below options.

These are under 10 bucks online (just click the picture for this one and other ideas).  You can also purchase Halloween fabric and make your own.

Another Option is a Halloween Themed Dog Collar.  Since they are used to wearing a collar then this will not upset them and still get you and your pet into the spirit of Halloween.

If you want to involve your small dog this year for the ghosts and goblins and all that goes with it, then dress up your dog and have some fun.

Whether is is a full on fitted costume or simply a collar or bandana, you can get into the spirit without breaking the bank.  It is fun and something to enjoy.



HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Magnetic Screen Door - Perfect for Dogs, Cats and Kids on the Cheap

Magnetic screen doors are perfect for those warm days to not only let in breezes and keep bugs out, but they will let your pets in and out too!

Anyone who reads my blog, knows I am on a limited budget and am always on the hunt for affordable and practical alternatives to expense renovations, pet care and more.

I came across this brilliant idea while looking for alternatives to installed screen doors.  I wanted something I could simply remove for the winter and didn't want the look of a double door.  This is perfect.

For under 30 bucks I can not only leave my back door open to enjoy the breezes and keep bugs out, but I can simply go in and out through this magnetic mesh screen door and it will close instantly behind me, keeping bugs to a minimum.

✅Dogs can go in and out too, without always having to open the door for them or installing expensive screen doggy doors.  Perfect for cats too especially for apartment balconies or if you have an indoor/outdoor pet.

Patio Door Magnetic Mesh Screen Door

✅Even if you already have a patio door for example with a sliding screen door, it is still a pain when it comes to pets and kids coming and going into the yard.  You can simply slide your present screen along and then quickly install this one and now they can come and go.

Makes it easier when you are serving food outside too and carrying trays.  It is such a simple design but so effective!

Perfect for Renters too!

✅If you rent and don't have a screen door and would love to let those outside breezes in, then consider adding this to your door opening.  It comes with an installation kit, and all velcro style attachments install quickly and are easy to take down without any damage.

I have found online to be a great place to shop with all kinds of variety and many of your hometown stores have an online presence as more and more brick and mortar stores begin to stock only higher end products. (At least this is what I have noticed of my local home improvement store... they keep the lower price things online)

Magnetic Screen Door Amazon

✅ I have simply found Amazon to be one of the best online stores for variety and pricing. I have never had any problems with returns if there was an issue, and living in Canada have found them to be very quick with deliveries.

This product has over 3100 reviews at the time of this writing, definitely a product that many people have used and enjoyed.

Sunglasses for Dogs - Save Their Eyes From Harmful UV Rays

My dog Sasha used to love to run and play around the shorelines of ponds, lakes, rivers and beaches.

But sometimes she would lose her way and whimper because of how bright the sunlight was in her eyes or how it reflected off the white sandy beach.  

In later years she developed cataracts and sensitivity to light, and I wish now that I had invested in sunglasses for dogs.  Our pets eyes are just as sensitive to UV rays as ours are.  While a cat may avoid the direct sunlight on their face, our dogs would gladly follow us anywhere!

So when we were wearing those cool sunglasses while strolling along the boardwalk on a bright sunny day in the park for a walk with our best friend, they were left to squint.

I was in the park the other day on a very bright winter's day.  So bright the sun was literally bouncing its rays off the bright white snow and into your face. 

This one dog owner was walking her dog, and I saw her with big sunglasses on and her dog looking off on an angle to avoid the bright sun. 

This couldn't have been very comfortable!

I then saw another smaller dog wearing the cutest sunglasses and frolicking in the snow.  

Dogs get used to wearing sunglasses quite quickly. I now wish I had thought of using them with my dog Sasha.

Dogs will do anything to please their owners, and we sometimes forget that if our eyes hurt with the bright sunlight, then maybe theirs do too!

For under 10 bucks, you can get cool looking dog sunglasses that look awesome and help their eyes stay younger longer.

The ones pictured first are for dogs over 15 pounds. but you can get them for all sizes of pooches!

These ones are for smaller dogs.  They have comfy elastic to keep them on their heads.  Just find the ones that will fit your pooch best.


So if you go out often in the sunshine with your dog, then protect his eyes just like you protect yours. Your doggy will go anywhere with you, even a bright sandy beach with intense light reflection, so consider investing in a pair of dog sunglasses. They will help to give your dog a good long life of seeing clearly.

Pet ID Tags - My Dog Was Saved that One Sunday Morning - ID Tags for Dogs - Best Purchase I Ever Made

ID Tags for Dogs

Our pets are part of the family, and we never felt so horrible as the day we lost our dog Sasha.

Sasha simply never ran away.  You could be outside either sitting or working and she would simply lay nearby and watch us.

But one fall Sunday, something intrigued her.  We are still not sure what it was... but we simply turned around and she was no longer there.  We had been raking leaves, and I saw her then I didn't.

My Stomach Lurched and I felt Horrible and Anxious

My hubby looked in the house, nothing, around the outside, nothing, checked the neighbours and nothing.

She loved to sleep in the garden (as pictured!)

My legs were shaking, until I went inside the house to grab our car keys and saw the telephone flashing.  We had a message.  I almost didn't stop to find out, but something told me to check the message.

Something Told me to Check the Phone Message...

It was the old age home down the back of our street.  They had found a friendly dog on the sidewalk in front of the place and instantly saw my bright pink custom dog tag with her name and a phone number.

I had just purchased it the day before!!

Personalized Dog Tags for Pets - Inexpensive and Worth Every Penny!

The maintenance man who found her wandering and scared, saw it right away.  He said, the problem with the town tags, is that there is nobody there on a Sunday, and now you are faced with caring for a strange dog overnight, which is not always possible for most people.

Do NOT Depend on the Town Dog License, or Even the Rabies Tag to Get Your Dog or Cat Home..

My dog Sasha, had the town tag and the Veterinarian tag with her proof of rabies which is required in this town, but there is no way of instantly finding the owner.  We could have spent a totally sleepless night looking for our beloved pet.

I was so thankful that I had checked the message and picked her up right away.  She was so happy to see us!

The guy, said he simply held her collar, and got out his cell phone.  That quick!!!

My Hubby Thought it Was a Waste of Money When I Placed it on Sasha... He Has Now Changed His Mind!

For under 5 bucks, get one of these personalized dog tags for pets.  Get it in a bright color, something that will stand out.  The only mistake I made was putting my landline only on the tag.  I should have put my cell phone number, or both.

Put your Cell Number First

This is super important to put phone numbers on where a person can reach you.  If you are out looking for your pet, you won't be at home to answer the phone, so put your cell number first.

I had purchased it at the local pet shop, but you don't even have to do that.  I have found them cheaper online.  I purchased a bright red one and attached it to her collar.

Our Pets are Family, they mean so much to us all.  But they are still animals, and yes, even the most obedient and friendly dog will walk away and get lost.   The best insurance is to have a quick way of being found.  Not everyone will take the time to try and phone the town or the Veterinarian especially after hours or on a Sunday.

Pet ID Tags that Look Like a License

I love the simple shape with a name and phone number, but as I searched for some tags online for my cats, I noticed these really cool license style tags.  You can get them for whatever State you live in.  You get a license card and a tag for their collar.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider a Pet ID tag, it will be the best 5 bucks you ever spent!!

Best Tick Removal Tool for Dogs and People - Get The Entire Tick Leaving Nothing Behind

As the Lyme disease is spread by ticks, the media has for many years now, suggested we always check our skin especially after time outdoors in nature.   The trick is to get the tick off your skin once it has latched on without leaving the head behind.

I am here to tell you TWEEZERS DO NOT WORK!  You will end up leaving the head in the skin, which is what happened when my son and my dog had tick bites.

We took the piece of tick to our local health unit to find out if it was the Deer tick (which carries the Lyme disease)  Luckily, it was not, but he had to have the rest of the tick picked out which was painful.

Our dog was not so lucky, as the tick bite she received was in fact infected.  We did not get it right away and she developed Lyme Disease which can cause arthritis symptoms in dogs and pain.

Best Tick Removal Tool on the Market

Tick Remover Tool for Dogs and People

This comes in two different sizes, and is a very simple tool but it removes the entire tick including the mouth.

This not only reduces the risk of infection, but can give you the chance to have it identified at the health unit as it is not in pieces.  Over 1000 reviews at this writing!

If you pull on it with tweezers, it will come apart and it can be hard to identify and now you have the worst part of the bug still in your skin and tweezers hurt!

They are very tiny when they are first on your skin, but enlarge as they feed on you.  Gross, yes I

know, but it is something you have to watch for, especially with pets.

Pets, especially dogs, will also get the same red inflamed bulls eye ring that humans get if the tick was infected and was able to fully bite, which requires immediate attention if you don't want the disease to spread through their bodies causing pain and distress.

Check Your Skin and then Check Your Pets

If you regularly walk with your dog in the park, through the woods, anywhere in nature, these nasty little critters can be waiting to hitch a ride from just about anywhere.    After your walk, quickly rub all over your skin to feel for one as you will not feel the bite including your scalp.

But don't forget your dogs, as they can't check themselves, and ticks can hang on for days feeding on your dog.  We had removed a tick from our dog before, but obviously missed one because when she became lame the Veterinarian tested her for diseases and it was positive for Lyme Disease and we then found the red ring on her skin after careful inspection.  She is now on 6 weeks worth of strong antibiotics.

I Wish I had this Tick Removal Tool at the Time

I wish I could go back in time and take more effort to search her fur.  She is a furry dog, but the Veterinarian was able to identify the bite site on her skin as it was irritated and red.  She was not feeling well but we are hoping we got her on the medication on time.  We are on week one of the meds.

My Cat Had a Tick Too

Even my cat who loves to play hide and seek in our garden cedar hedge row, had one on the back of his neck.  I saw it right away because he is white and this tick was darkening as it was feeding.  I yanked it off with tweezers and the head remained in the skin which then needed attention.  They hang on tight these nasty little critters.

If You Love to Be Out in Nature, Arm Yourself With a Few Tools

Purchase this tick remover tool.  Cover your bare skin if you are hiking, especially your legs, and consider purchasing some tick repellents to give you that extra layer of protection. 

Remove the Tick to Help Prevent Disease 

Using the proper tools makes all the difference.  These tick removal tools are under 10 bucks online at the time of this writing, totally worth the investment to help you get the entire bug including the head and mouth off your skin without digging or pain.  A very simple design but it works much better than tweezers.

It is small enough to carry in your purse or knapsack, and should go with you everywhere.  You just never know when one of these will show up on your skin or your pets skin.

What to Do if You Find a Tick Biting Yourself or your Dog?

Use this tool to remove the entire tick and place the tick in a clean bottle or even a sandwich baggy or wrap in wet paper towel and take to the local health department in your town or go to a health clinic and show them the bite and the tick.  It can then be identified and tested to see if it has Lyme Disease.

If it does you will be given treatment for yourself or your dog.  My son was bitten by a tick a few years back and we made the mistake of trying to remove it with tweezers, we had to go to the medical clinic and get the rest dug out which is painful, and then a series of antibiotics.

If you suspect a tick bite but don't have the tick, seek medical attention.  The earlier this disease is caught the better.  We didn't see the bite on our dog right away, and symptoms of Lyme disease started, so check yourself, and your pets and be proactive.