In Honor of National Pet Day: We're celebrating by talking all things dogs with PuppySpot!

It's a big day for our fur babies as today (April 11) is National Pet Day!

This holiday is all about appreciating and celebrating all the special pets in your life.

For me, that means kissing and cuddling my adorable girls, Bella and Lulu.

According to the ASPCA approximately 6.5 million companions enter the Unites States' shelters nationwide each year. On average, 3.3 million of those are dogs. 

For most pet owners, choosing and falling in love with a dog is instant,  but some times the experience of finding the right pet can be a little overwhelming, and that's where PuppySpot is here to help! 

PuppySpot created a "Find Your Perfect Dog Breed" flow chart to give you some guidance on spotting your next new buddy. Simply follow the questions below and let's see what happens.

 

So is it a husky, bulldog or irish setter that you matched with best? Or, was it recommended you wait a bit? Looking for a smaller, hypoallergenic dog? We have recommendations for those, too. 

Regardless of your outcome, there's a perfect dog for you!

PuppySpot offers a variety of dogs ready to go to their forever homes. Their service is committed to helping responsible breeders place their puppies into caring homes. With a screened and vetted network of responsible breeders, PuppySpot makes fetching your new best friend incredibly simple. They use a personalized approach catered to you and each breeder that is invited into the PuppySpot community is held to the highest standards, with health and safety for all dogs (not just puppies) as top priorities. The PuppySpot comprehensive screening process for breeders significantly reduces the allowance for unhealthy breeders and allows less than 15 percent of breeders into the PuppySpot exclusive  community.  

Pretty awesome, right? Check out the puppies for sale here.

 Ok, so I promised to share a little more about the hypoallergenic breeds. Both Bella and Lulu are hypoallergenic, perfect for a girl prone to allergies. Bella, the Maltipoo (Maltese and Poodle) and Lulu the Yorkshire Terrier, are super easy to manage with minimal hair loss (shedding).

PuppySpot sent over the girls' breed cards to share with you.

ADOPTION OPPORTUNITIES

In addition to the great options on PuppySpot there is one other company dog team I'd like to introduce you to. Their name is Bichon FurKids Rescue.  

This sweet team of dog lovers goes above and beyond to show case the most adorable little Bichon puppers, highlighting their personalities. Most recently they posted on their social media Instagram account about Cody. 

Cody is a sweet little playful two-year-old Bichon boy that loves belly rubs. His glistening brown eyes caught my attention and I was instantly smitten. Cody currently resides in San Diego, California and is looking for his forever home and a human to call his own best friend. If you'd like to meet Cody, please contact Bichon Fur Kids.

Whether you're ready to adopt or purchase a sweet pup, you have some awesome and healthy avenues to do so and with Bichon Fur Kids who foster sweet dogs like Cody, to good breeders found through Puppy Spot, you are well on your way to find your new fur baby. 

I wish you luck and a ton of joy for the blessing that will leave paw print marks on your floors and a whole lot of love in your heart! 

Bella and Lulu Review Nature's Logic Dog Food

Thank you Nature's Logic  (NL) for sending Bella and Lulu your Canine Chicken Meal Feast dry kibble, to try. The girls are a bit prissy and rather particular, but they definitely appreciate a good dog food when they smell one.

Before we dive into the review, I wanted to share a brief history of Nature's Logic. The idea started in 2005, when owner of Nature's Logic Scott Freeman, developed a concept for pet food that focused on the benefits of whole food nutrition without using synthetics. Thanks to his veterinarian friend who had a similar approach to nutrition in the realm of supplements, the vision made a long-lasting impression on Freeman, and by late 2005 the first batch of NL was tested. And by early 2006,  the first products retailed in the USA.

Nature’s Logic's goal is to provide great nutrition to pets, and provide a safe product that pet owners can feel good about feeding to their fur babies.

In the Chicken kibbie, Bella and Lulu received, the top list of items stated this:

• Gluten Free
• Probiotics
• Enzymes
• 100% Natural
• No Synthetic Vitamins or Minerals

"Not bad, huh?" asks, Lulu.



The full list of ingredients, found here in the Chicken kibbies are pretty sophisticated, and for a dog owner who just adores her furbabies, I was highly impressed.

The only issue I had with the kibbies was their size. My pups are under the weight of 10 pounds and for some reason the concern I had for the size of the kibbies had me hesitant. As I watched the girls snack on a few pieces, the raise of concern heightened, as my ONLY recommendation would to be to ask Nature's Logic to create a smaller kibble that is little-pup-to-miniature-pup, friendly.

So as to not waste food, I reached out to our dear doggy friend, Abby's owner, Terri. Terri has shared that Abby is a "highly allergic to everything under the sun," type of dog, who might be worth the gamble on this health-cautious dog food. The 40 pounds of cuteness marched her way over to the bag and waited patiently for her dinner to be served.  

 

Success! Abby ate until her tummy was full.

If you have a medium to large dog, I would recommend the dry kibble. For a full list of products for dogs or cats, check them out here .  

Thank you Nature's Logic!

Small Business Saturday

It's time to shop! - Small Business Saturday 

Small Business Saturday is designated to create a buzz around mom-and-pop businesses, and help them receive, well, more business! The reason why it's great to support these businesses, is that it not only shines light on the entrepreneur spirit, but it expands the community that you live in, or live near by; allowing you to invest in a gift from local artist or rarely seen vendors, making your purchase unique and treasure-felt. 

Here are six businesses from Orange and Los Angeles counties that would love to meet you. 

Get ready to shop, eat, snack and pick up a treat for fido!

TRINKETS AND FASHION

1.  SUO BOUTIQUE

SUO Boutique, in Brea and Monrovia, California. The store's clothing ranges from extra small to large, and rarely holds items for curvier girls, however they have an array of cute shoes, earrings and other accessories to complement any outfit, and their slew of knick knacks had me jumping over the moon! I wanted to buy everything, but had to reel it in. 

Prices range from $4-$45. 

2. LOCAL FIXTURE

Local Fixture in Whittier, California, has an eclectic display of jewelry by local artist, bath and toiletry items such as hand-crafted soaps and perfumes, carries cards and several other gifts for men, women and kids. They have a newly section for the outdoor adventurer who likes, Patagonia, and unisex clothing to support the local city of Whittier "where the girls are prettier," or so the t-shirt description said so.

The dark wood frame that encompasses the shop, houses some of the most hip and friendliest sales guys and gals on Bright Avenue, who will wrap up any purchase free of charge. If you get thirsty or need a snack, you might pick up a cold brewed coffee drink, which is always on tap, or try one of their high-end donuts from Donut Snob, served every Friday and Saturday.

Prices range from $3 to $229.

PLACES TO EAT 

3. BAILEY'S STREET KITCHEN

Bailey's street kitchen is located on Bailey Street, in Whittier, California. The family owned restaurant is pretty small in size, but the food packs a delicious-and-rather impactful, punch! Whether it's Italian, Mexican or American food you're craving for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Bailey's Kitchen has it all for you.  Since I'm a breakfast addict, I dove right into the chocolate chip pancakes, while my boyfriend can be seen cutting into their delicious chicken and waffles. 

Princes range from $5 to $17

4. CREPES & GRAPES

If you're looking for something a little more quaint, check out Crepes & Grapes, adjacent to Bailey's Street Kitchen. 

The Uptown Whittier cafe serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a Paris vibe. Serving up items with names such as Croque-Madame and Belle Matine. Featured below is the scrambled eggs and asparagus, topped with goat cheese, a side of a rather large parfait and some hot chocolate that is so delicious! 

I've stopped in here on numerous occasions and have found that my favorite protein plate is the chimichurri demi steak and eggs breakfast.  If you have little ones, their kids menu is perfectly suited.

Prices range from $6 to $25.

4. MARSTON'S RESTAURANT

Marston's Restaurant in Pasadena, is a causal little spot that serves up delicious American-style food in a cozy little cottage. Be mindful that wait time varies as the staff hustles and bustles to keep the movement of service as fast as possible in this little nook. The french toast is an absolute must, as it's engulfed in corn flakes for crunch and added texture. If I could squeal "yum!" through the computer screen, I would. 

Live further north? Check out their second location in Valencia. 

Prices range from $2 to $15.

SNACK

5. DOTS CUPCAKES

Now I only have one place for snacks to talk about and that's because it's by far the most delicious I've ever tried. With two locations, both in Pasadena, California (just a few blocks from Marston's), Dots Cupcakes will make your eyes light up the moment you walk into the boutique-style store and inhale the smell of freshly baked cupcakes, which they create daily. You may even want to press your nose up on the glass, but don't, that's just weird and not sanitary. 

A few days a week, DOTS CUPCAKES changes up the array by rotating in daily flavors. Choose between regular and mini size. 

 What's great about DOTS, is just an added bonus, they are so friendly and always representing their city, the local community and welcoming to every visitor that they meet. They're also a green company and use soy ink and recycled paper for their wrapping and boxes.  Thank you Dots and your incredible associate who created the Dallas Cowboy themed birthday cupcakes below for my boyfriend. They were a hit!

Prices range from $1.75 to $33.

THE DOG BAKERY

6. THE DOG BAKERY

I could never forget my cutie patootie, Bella, or her many doggy neighbors, so this one is for them!  After you grab your cupcake from Dots Cupcakes, cross Colorado Boulevard and head west to The Dog Bakery. It's a hidden gem for dog treats and birthday cakes specifically made with only the finest ingredients edible to dogs. All items are hand made in the USA. The company has three locations in California, so if you're near Venice or Beverly Hills, don't fret. You can pick up your orders there. 

Not interested in buying a birthday cake for you dog? Not to worry, The Dog Bakery also houses toys for small and large pups, collars, leashes, dish bowls and many other necessity items in between. 

Bella turned 12-years-old in October, and she deserved a cake of her own, so that's just what she got. The adorable associate made it just right, and Bella was doggy stuffed.

Seen here is a 12" round peanut butter and carob cake.

Prices range from $1.25 to $50

HAPPY SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY! 

If you find a great spot that's not listed here, please write me, I'd love to check them out. Have a great weekend!

Seven Things Not To Feed Your Dog on Thanksgiving

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, it can be very easy to get caught up in, well, sharing your delicious eats with your favorite fur buddy, however there are many ingredients that can be harmful to pups if consumed.  Please check out the list below.

In addition to these seven items, wine, beer and garlic must also be avoided.  For more information on how to protect your babies, and a more detailed list, please check out this post by the Humane Society.
Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!

It's Bella's 12th Birthday!!

Happy Birthday to my sweet baby girl, Bella. 

As some of you may remember, Bella has suffered a lot in the last five years
and I almost lost her two years ago to Addison's disease.


Thankfully through God's healing hands and the gracious care of veterinarians and vet techs,
Bella was saved and has enjoyed two relatively healthy years since her ordeal.
 Bella's life is incredibly important to me. She has taught me so much about love; how important it is to stay true to who you are, take a nap when needed and invest in those who invest in you.

Happy Birthday to my very special

Angel on earth. ❤️

Dog day!

Happy National Dog Day,

Love Bella, her sister Lulu 

and a few of our cousins and friends!

Monday...

It's the start of the work week. I know you're already counting down the days, but be brave, rather fearless, and take on the week with vigor. If all else fails, give a smirk like Lulu does and just think, it could always be worse. 

Happy Monday. 

Park Daze

We've been having a lot of fun this past week at the park. 

Although most days are pretty cold now in California, there have been a few high temp days sneaking in. We figure we better enjoy it. 

Happy Sunday, everyone! 

Just a day at the park

Bella, Lulu and I have been spending a lot of extra time together, outdoors. In our small town, we have the luxury of exploring three parks. A much appreciated array of options when the hustle and bustle of life becomes too much, and a long walk or a gazing view under a tree, can be just the ticket for pure relaxation. Two out of the three parks however, are usually loaded with foot traffic as adults accompany young children or other dogs, which usually go unleashed to roam the premises, and if Bella isn't in the mood for a meet and greet, it can cut our outings short.

Did I tell you Bella was feisty? Today she was called an Alpha female. "Yep, just like her mother," I added to the conversation with a friendly stranger visiting the park with his maltipoo, "Rambo".

Only after asking the dog owner if it was OK, did I let Bella off the leash to explore the area that was Rambo. The sweet little guy could have be an agility trainer, as he bobbed and weaved from Bella's temper tantrums. After a few how do you dos and don'ts from the pups and conversations of dogs ended, Bella, Lulu, Rambo, the stranger and myself parted ways and Bella and Lulu did as they do best and took over the rest of the park.

They win. 

Happy Halloween!

Hi There! It's Saturday night and there are a ton of fun costumes wandering the neighborhood's streets, asking for free handouts of sugary treats. Yep, you guessed it, it's Halloween!

This year E and I decided to keep it a simple and picked up some Ben Nye and Snazaroo face paint and play up our money makers in the Dia de los Muertos theme. We had the best time! Ok, so I had the best time, but E was a great sport!

Check us out.

And who can forget these two cuties? 

Little Lulu and Bella had to avoid the face paint, but these costumes are a perfect fit. 

Bella is a Mummy...

and, sweet Baby Lu is a Rufferee.

Please be safe tonight and courteous to others. We all deserve to have a little fun this evening. 

Blessings!