In many parts of the country the temperatures are already dropping, but I'm still holding out for a couple more warm weekends in California. Before
Fall totally takes over, pick up this
Kool Dogz Ice Treat Maker to get one last use now that it's on sale for just $26. The kit includes a steel base with a reservoir to catch the melting water, a reusable freezing bucket with lid to fill, and a sturdy stake to fit in the ground.
In California, it's not unusual to get some pretty hot temps in September, and last weekend was no exception. LilPeaPod took Samson camping for the first time, and not only was he totally overwhelmed with nature, it was also super hot. It's pretty well known that
smooshies don't do well with heat or swimming, so taking a dip in the lake was out of the question.
As if the ominous name didn't clue you in, death caps are very dangerous. This species is responsible for the majority – 95 percent! – of fatal mushroom poisoning of people and pets.
While there are times I wish North had more outdoor space to frolic, quite often I'm grateful for my pooch's sheltered city lifestyle. Don't get me wrong, he still takes nice long walks . .
Don't
leave your grills (or pets) unsupervised at any outdoor parties! Have some extra sticks and
balls to distract him from hovering around the BBQ and your yums. If your speedy pup grabs something piping hot, or gets too close to the grill, you should have a plan, and supplies, to treat paw burns.
Keep the trash safe from your nosy pets! In addition to the obvious dangers of
cleaning product poisons or choking hazards, the bacteria and molds found in rotting foods can seriously endanger your furry friends . .
I love taking
North along for a coffee or snack at a sidewalk café. It's the perfect way for me to get some yums, and for my pooch to enjoy the fresh air.A couple things to keep in mind when heading out:
- Before You Leave: Although many pet-friendly establishments offer to-go dishes for a pets' water, it can't hurt to bring along your own portable bowls. Also, make sure I've got a non-Flexi leash and a bag (if your pet's small) to be able to secure him.
If your pup is unlucky enough to have bites from these yucky blood suckers, make a switch to an
eco-tastic shampoo to offer relief during the
Summer months. If you're not up to
making your own herbal flea powder, here's a couple ingredients to look for on the label of store brands (
recommended by you in the comments!):
- Aloe: One of the more obvious calming ingredients, aloe can be found in everything from gels to sprays. Pure Aloe Vera can sooth and cool your dog's itchy bites (and yours, too!) plus it won't hurt your pet if he licks it off.
You may be wondering why I've been going a tad tick crazy on the site during the
Dog Days of Summer. Well, there's a reason. Last week when chatting with a pal in NYC, she shared a scary story about her rescued Rottie mix, Jack.
With the weather out here in California constantly changing from hot, to windy, to cold, and back again, I noticed that
North's ears tend to get dirtier faster (especially with us hitting the beach more often in the Summer months). I like to clean his ears about once a week or so with
Fuzzyard Organic Ear Cleanser ($22) that contains Aloe Vera to soothe, and a mixture of Almond and Macadamia nut oils to soften stubborn wax.
But, if you aren't keen on the liquid solutions, I learned that
Samson uses
Earthbath Ear Wipes ($9) that come in a jar of 25.
