The weekend has arrived

TGIF !!!!

Woof the weekend has arrived !

Thank goodness the nightmare is over and all those nasty booms are done till who knows when but I am one happy little girl at this moment. My favorite neighbors popped in to check on me so when they came we went for quick walks around the block which was fun and I felt really safe. Thank you Barbara and Ryan for the visits.

Mom was so great and gave me some CBD oil to relax plus made a comfy bed in the shower where I slept.

We are now praying that whoever bolted and got lost will find his/her home again as this is just so sad that people cannot be responsible when it comes to their pets fear of fireworks.

Last weekend we had a quiet stay at home as Mom wasn’t feeling well and because of the fires in Northern California on Sunday especially the city was covered in ash and smoke so although the Jazz Festival was on which Mom wanted to go to we decided that the air was not healthy so indoors it was. Actually I liked it as I got lots of cuddles and fun time with Mom.

I am not sure if I told you but I am doing the AIDS walk with Mom on the 15th of July, it is going to be about 6 miles of walking and am really looking forward to it. You might wonder why, but the only reason is we believe in giving back where possible and as I am a PAWS client, the money would help them so whoever sponsors us is helping a really good cause. What is PAWS ? I have spoken about them in the past, they are a non profit organization, belong to the SHANTI project and help a lot of people with pets. (You can see their link on our links page).

If you want to sponsor us this is the link, thank you

Laylas Page for the AIDS Walk

Because it is a long walk Mom has been doing research on cooling vests for me, so that I will be comfortable walking and not over heat, plus with summer here I will be cool all the time when we are out and about which means less to worry when it comes to over heating. So Mom the researcher came across this cooling vest made by a company called Coolaid in Arizona which had exactly what she was looking for and the color also so it will match my harness and collar, PINK.

Coolaid is dedicated to provide an easy to use icy and cooling effect for all animals. It is chemical free what I love. We tried it out in the heat in the park and all I can say is that I am really happy with the vest, Layla was comfortable, running around and in a nutshell just what the doctor ordered. We were there for nearly 3 hours and when I got home it was still cool and damp. What I love about the vest is it just slips on, there are no straps, it fits perfectly, not too tight and her harness fits over it with ease. I would highly recommend this product to all dog owners.

They sponsored Layla with the one she wore plus surprised us with a pink towel/bandanna for me, two for her and also a Dog Wrap which is great for arthritis, swelling or post surgical areas plus it can be used as a cooling collar also. All pink so Layla and I will be matching in the Walk with her in her vest and me in my bandanna. It all arrived in a great light weight backpack which will make life so much easier when carrying water, treats, poop bags, etc.

A big big thank you to CoolAid for sponsoring Layla and of course a thanks for the towel/bandanna that I will wear on the WALK also.

To find out more about their products you can visit their website :

CoolAid

So as you can see, we do sometimes have slow weeks and weekends as we need to recharge our batteries for the other times.

I am now going into my box for my morning shnooze with a full tummy, life is good in the Layla Neighborhood.

Take care and have a wonderful weekend
Woof with love
Layla

4th of July is next week

Good Morning Furfriends,

June is nearly over and July is nearly here. This year is going too fast for us and we cannot keep up anymore BOL.

Last weekend was a busy weekend for us, it was the annual Pride and Dyke March in San Francisco. The weather was great and a wonderful way to be out and about.

On Friday evening Mom and I went for a long walk to visit a Rocket Dog Rescue event not far from our house, I got spoiled with a yummy treat from the pet store there and Mom got a t-shirt saying “Be Kind to Animals or I will kill you” Rocket Dog Rescue. This is one of my favorite organizations in the city and they do amazing work. Pali the founder is just incredible.

You can read all about her here on her website :

Rocket Dog Rescue

On Saturday I became Mini Dyke and Mom took me to the Dyke March. The weather was hot so we went early to find a spot on the street where they march and there was shade for me. Of course we went early as Mom always says the earlier the better. It was fun to be out in my backpack of course, where we sat in the shade and just watched the world go by.

I do not like the noise of the Bikes but have decided as Mom likes it, I will suffer for that and give her something she likes, so you see I can be nice sometimes.
The Bikes roared up the road, Mom filmed while I sat in the backpack and the bikers all loved me, petted me and I was spoiled although I do not think I would want to ride on one. Then came all the people walking, lots of them plus dogs all dressed up in rainbows like I was. We walked with them, although me the Mini Dyke sat in the backpack and Mom did the carrying, so I became mini Dyke in backpack. What could be better thank that.

You can see the film of the Dykes on Bikes on our Instagram account :

Dykes on Bikes movie

We must have got home at about 7 in the evening and Mom was tired, and I was hungry and exhausted also, so we ate dinner and just went to bed.

On Sunday was the big parade, we had been invited to join in on a trolley and ride with SHANTI/PAWS but Mom decided it would be too much for me so we stayed at home. Now she is regretting it ha ha ha.

Our weekend was awesome, this week is going to be busy but with 4th of July looming we must discuss that.

4th of July – Mine and many of my fur friends nightmare – those damn fireworks.

This is a day to celebrate with families but we must not forget :

Although this is a day for partying, having fun, picnics and BBQ’s it is also one of the days when we should be also extra cautious with our pets, making sure they are safe at all times, they are wearing their collars, and especially when the fireworks go off they are inside the house, in a calm place with their blankets and whatever else makes them feel safe and secure. We must also remember not to raise our voice to them but treat them extra gentle to help with the stress.

4th of july

When the fireworks go off : “They will do anything to escape. Dig, climb and sometimes injure themselves to get away as they do not know what is happening.

I, for example, from the morning give Layla CBD oil to start off the calming effect, walk her not later than 6 in the evening as their are always those early birds with fireworks and most of all I make up a bed in the shower for her, which has no windows, keep the lights off there but the door is open so she can hear me, and I keep the Jazz station on the TV. There is also of course her water bowl and food.
I have found this works wonders with her, and she sleeps through all the chaos. I will not take her out later than 6 in the evening unless she comes and tells me she needs to go out, which she is smart enough to do.

July 5th is the nightmare for all shelters. That is the day when all those irresponsible owners find their pet is missing and the shelters are over flowing with pets. It is the busiest day in the US for Shelters and unfortunately we must not forget those also that have got injured when fleeing the noise.

So a reminder, when you go off to enjoy yourselves, make sure your pet is safe in the house, TV on with music, and all windows are closed so that they cannot escape. That way you can sit back and enjoy yourself and not have to worry. I personally, do not go out and am more relaxed being home in the evening with Layla.

So on this note, we are wishing everyone a Happy 4th of July, be safe, have fun and protect your fur kids,

Layla is now doing what she does best, sleeping

Mom and Layla

It is Woofing Wednesday

Woof everyone,

It is woofing Wednesday and we have been busy which is making me exhausted.

So what is happening in the Layla Neighborhood ? Lots !!!!

On Saturday I went with Mom to volunteer as usual which was lots of fun as I got lots of hugs and pets from everyone, it is the best way to start a day with love. In the afternoon we relaxed and then went for a long walk.

Did you know ! I walk Mom now and she needs a new leash BOL. It goes like this, Mom wants a shortish walk in the afternoons and I decide I want a long one so off we go and when she wants to turn around I just sit down and refuse to move or pull her along in the direction I want. Guess who wins ?? Me of course while Mom is muttering under her breath HA – slaves should not mutter.

On Sunday we had an adventure which was fun although I did not like the drums. Mom and I went on the MUNI (tram) to the Native Contemporary Arts Festival at the Yerba Buena Gardens – it was a beautiful day, cool but sunny. We found a shady spot to sit under a tree and listen to the poetry. music and then dance.

Well when the drums started, I became antsy, did not like it and Mom laid the backpack on the ground open so I could lie in it, but when she saw that I was not relaxing and shhhhh spoiling her relaxing time as she wanted to listen, Mom being the good Mom that she is decided to bring me home.

Phew was I happy to sit in the backpack and get out of there. It was a learning lesson for both of us as Mom says she knows now that when it comes to different events she will have to plan things in a different way.

So this week, excluding walks and park time we are lying low and spending quality time at home. Mom is still teaching but otherwise it is just us.

This coming Saturday is Pride Weekend in San Francisco, loads of chaos so we are not planning any adventure on Sunday but to relax in the dog park. Though on Saturday I become mini Dyke and we are going to the Dyke March. I will allow Mom to do that one plus I have the backpack to sit comfortably and watch it all. Photos of course will be in next weeks blog.

On this note now that I have finished sharing what is happening in our neighborhood, I am off for my afternoon siesta which is needed.

Happy Pride to those celebrating

With a Woof and Love
Layla

The weekend is getting closer

Woof it is Wednesday,

Middle of the week which means the weekend is around the corner. That means a new adventure with Mom which is so much fun.

On Saturdays I volunteer at a food bank which I love doing, Layla sometimes comes with me and she is in seventh heaven being loved by everyone so when I get home I am exhausted, but it is worth it as it makes me feel great giving back and helping. We always laugh as I am a Jew volunteering on the Sabbath in a Lutheran Church.

I decided this year that every Sunday we would be out of the house doing something fun with Layla. Living in San Francisco I am spoiled as there are every week different fairs or events and I am planning to do as many as possible plus of course the Dyke March again this year.

The plus is having the back pack has eased it for me as Layla is safe and happy, my hands are free to take pictures or whatever else I want to do.

layla in backpack

Last Sunday we went to the Haight/Ashbury street fair where there were lots of booths selling all kinds of things, fantastic food trucks with yummy foods so it was great to just wander around, look at the booths or stores and the weather was perfect. It was a fun late morning start and I took the tram up the hill to the fair and then we walked home through the dog park. Layla was exhausted and so was I but we both got lots of exercise. AND the best of all was Layla became a little hippy for that day – all part of the history of San Francisco.

haight ashbury fair

This coming Sunday there is another event which really interests me and I am planning to go to is the Native Contemporary Arts Festival Free Performances at the Yerba Buena Gardens. It is an event celebrating the creativity of North America’s indigenous peoples, the 21st annual Native Contemporary Arts Festival showcases a diverse program of native music, dance, spoken word, artist vendors and native crafts. Will share pictures in next weeks blog.

I am also researching what dog events there will be so Madam can have her share of events also BOL plus of course the different dog parks to visit.

What are your plans for the summer ? If anyone is in San Francisco and wants to join us let us know – we could have a dog play date !

Now Madam is off to have her afternoon sleep, I am as always working as someone has to pay the bills and buy the treats.

Have a wonderful week, with a woof and love from Layla

Pet Appreciation Week June 4 – 10

Pet Appreciation week

Woof Happy Wednesday Everyone,

I thought every day was Pet Appreciation Day but Mom told me when we were in the park on Sunday that actually there is a special week set aside for this. Wow I never knew that and I am working it hard with her for lots of things BOL.

Pet Appreciation week was started in 1981 by the American Veterinary Association.

This year started it on June 4 and ends June 10 although in our house it carries on 24/7 which I am sure happens in most homes but what we love about it is that it highlights so many points as to why we appreciate out pets so much and reminds us also of the unconditional love they give us.

When I look back at my life and remember all my pets I remember how much they taught to me to appreciate them, to treasure them and to make sure they were loved all the time. I also think that is the reason that I stayed in the abusive relationship was because of Baby and how much I appreciated what she did for me and that list is a long one, but most important her giving me the strength and courage to run with her the moment I had that chance. It is something money cannot buy, that feeling of freedom with her and not having to walk on eggshells in the house anymore.

Layla is Layla, I appreciate everything she does for me, her antics which keep me laughing, her unconditional love for me, her getting me out of the house and walking, and the list is endless. I cannot see my life without this little funny clown that is sleeping at the moment. For those that know her in person I am sure you are all chuckling about it. Our neighbor visits, Layla sits on her lap and howls as if she is part of the conversation, she then will get down and start digging up the bed and hiding her chews under the covers, her sitting moaning next to the desk demanding cuddles and attention, and so much more. But I would not change anything.

What does Appreciation mean : In my eyes it means unconditional love, understanding, patience, laughter and much much more. And I think that the one thing that Layla really appreciates is that I rescued her and have given her a home, love and I can say she gone from pound to princess.

So let us think about why you appreciate your pet ? What is so special about him or her ? What are you going to do special this week ?

And why we are on the subject of appreciation we appreciate all of you reading our blog, commenting and sharing your stories with us here.

Let us appreciate what we have, enjoy it, keep the negative away and keep the positive with us, have a wonderful week,

With woof and love from Layla

June is around the corner

Happy Wednesday Fur Friends,

Can you believe May is nearly over ! This year is going too fast for me, what do you think ? But the good news is June is here and that means summer holidays have arrived and although Mom is working, she will have more time to do some adventures with me.

The past week was a bit of a mess with me being sick but am back to normal whatever normal is as Mom says. One of the things Mom found that really helped me was the Chicken Broth, she just cooked the chicken in the slow cooker with a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar and then when cooling added some veggies. It is yummy and I have asked Mom to make more which she promised me she would.

Over the weekend we did have some fun, Mom went on Sunday with me to a small little park not far from our house but what Mom loves about it is it secluded and very quiet, so she took coffee, sat on a bench relaxing and I wandered around smelling the flowers and everything else.

It was a great way to start the day as when we walked home Mom was really calm which I love. On Monday we decided to stay in our area and spent time in our regular park but went early and spent about 3 hours there, hanging out with friends and their fur babies. It was really great to have that quality time with Mom again and no electronics.

Sunday Siesta

The only issue I have with Mom and park visits is the damn camera, I wish she would slow down a bit but she feels the memories are important so have stopped arguing with her.

What are your plans for the summer ? Let’s hear some as maybe by you sharing Mom will get some interesting ideas BOL.

I am off now to have my afternoon snooze as it is hot outside and cool here inside, it is a good life in the Layla Neighborhood.

Have a wonderful week
With a woof with love from
Layla

Woof I have been sick

Woof to everyone,

Wednesdays come and Wednesdays go, cannot keep up with them sometimes.

This past week has been a bit upside down for us, Layla has not been well. I think with age her immune system is slowing down. We were in the park last Tuesday, I do not let anyone give her treats anymore but when we got home all hell broke loose with an upset tummy.

I do not have a back yard so when this happens I have to take here out so in the end I was lying on the bed in my clothes to make it easier. Layla will not use pee pads and she is really good in telling me when she needs to go.

I immediately changed her diet to boiled rice, chicken, pumpkin and probiotics and she was eating and drinking with no problems so just monitored her.

On Friday she vomited and that is when I really got concerned, double monitored her but when on Saturday she did it again I took her to the vet. I decided rather be safe than sorry.

I hate the vets in many ways one of them is I sometimes feel they are so quick to give medications but on the other hand my biggest concern was dehydration.

What they gave her is Metronidazole and Cerenia. I feel that the Cerenia is not necessary and she is not herself at all. So after discussing with the vet I have stopped giving it to her, but am keeping her on the other as I do know there is some tummy virus or bacteria going around the dog parks as quite a few dogs I know have been sick. I am also keeping her out of the park at the moment.

My biggest concern is she is not drinking so am using a syringe to give her fluids plus making sure her food has a lot of chicken bone broth in it. Am at a loss with this one as such and am open to all ideas if anyone has any. The last time she drank out of a bowl of water was Saturday afternoon. Her appetite is great phew so she is getting the liquids from there.

Otherwise in so many ways she is acting like her self, maybe sleeping a little more than usual but that can also be from the meds, so am not hysterical. She wants her long morning walk which I give her, she is digging up the bed LOL but this Jewish Mother is concerned.

So unfortunately this is not one of our fun happy blogs but am reaching out on it to hear if anyone can give me some input on the drinking side. (Oy that sounds bad in a way).

On this note, Layla is sleeping and I am off to make more chicken, have a great week all,

With a woof from Layla

Wednesday has arrived

Woof it’s Wednesday,

And like every Wednesday I woof about my past week, what I have been up to, both good and bad BOL.

We have been very busy here, or should I say my slave, Mom has been very busy and I have been keeping an eye on her making sure everything is done right. That is the job of the Boss and it is tiring so I try to take as many naps as possible.

Last Wednesday night we went to the Pets Are Wonderful Support’s 31st Anniversary Celebration: Petchitecture. It was a fancy event at the Fairmont hotel in San Francisco so I had to get all dressed up (I hate that part). All pets were invited and they even had a snack table for us – yummmm.

What is this event. Petichitecture is an evening fundraiser held once a year to celebrate the generosity and compassion that has sustained the human-animal bond for over three decades in San Francisco. PAWS has been the organization that makes sure no person has to choose between the care of themselves or their pet. They serve over 600 clients and 800 companion animals annually.

So off we went, me in my fancy new dress, Mom actually dressed up WOW and of course my Aunt Barbara came with us too looking really pretty. There were lots of people, dogs and oy vey even a pig on a leash, can you believe that ? I met a pig ! The downside was Mom’s camera was messing around so we did not get many pictures but she is trying to get from the organizers and we will have to share on Instagram.

I have taken Layla to dog events but not an event like this so I decided to take with me her expandable pet carrier for safety so that if she started feeling overwhelmed she had a safe place to relax.

Being the Jewish Mom LOL I made sure she was as comfortable as possible I took one other important item with me the CBD oil from Treatibles. After being at the event for about an hour or so I realized it was getting too much for her so I gave her a couple of drops of the oil, took her dress off and put her in her bag. It was fantastic as she immediately relaxed, settled down and I was also able to sit back and enjoy the company and good food.

CBD oil, I have tried many products to keep her calm, and I have found that CBD oil is the best solution for her, within minutes she is relaxed and normally curls up and goes to sleep with all the chaos around us. I have a bottle in my Earthquake bag also as I know that if we have to run I have something to keep her calm.

Why I love Treatibles, first their service is great, I can ask questions and get replies within 24 hours and I think the major plus for me is that they are in California so I know that it is a safe product. Excluding the oil they also make CBD dog biscuits for different size dogs which makes life really easy when you thinking of quantity for your dog size.


Mommmm ! Don’t forget to tell them that Treatibles also helps cats !!! Grrr.

To learn more about them you can find all information on their link below :

Treatibles

When we left the event I actually just carried her and she was one relaxed happy camper.

Treatibles gave me a bottle of oil and the treats for the review.

The other special event we went to this past week was the Welcome Home Party for Phyllo – many of you read how Phyllo was stolen and he is now home safe and sound. His story is just amazing and I plan to sit with his owner and get the full story and blog about it as we can all learn from it and how a community got together to help. They gave all of little goodie bags which was so exciting.

So in between all this we have been busy with our normal routine and Mom says she is really tired BOL. She needs a box like mine and more naps.

On this note, I am now off for my mid morning nap, as this dictating exhausts me, have a wonderful week all and we cannot wait to hear what you have been up to 🙂

Woof with love from
Layla

It is Woofing Wednesday

Its Woofing Wednesday,

Good Morning Friends and we hope you had a wonderful weekend. Mommy is so busy here and she is complaining that my diary is too full this week BOL but she has a point as we are busy.
On Sunday we went on an adventure to one of Moms favorite places, Stern Grove which is a beautiful big park with a lake at the end. It was fun to run along the pathway and smell lots of new smells, listen to the birds and relax in the sun. There were even turtles sunbathing on a rock in the middle of the lake.
One of the reasons we went was the San Francisco Chihuahuas has their monthly meet up there and they were having a Cinco De Mayo party. Lots of Chihuahuas all dressed up and yapping, just like a party should be.  It was lots of fun with lots of food although Meanie Mom would not share as she says the food is not good for me. Excuses, excuses, excuses. One of the best dog events in the city.
Today oy vey we are going to a fancy event,  Pets Are Wonderful Support’s 31st Anniversary Celebration: Petchitecture Gala.  I have to get dressed up for that, can you believe it ? All the dogs will be dressed up, they going to have a table of snacks for us, volunteers to look after us if Mom needs one. This is my first fancy event I am going to and really excited and we will share pictures next week from it.
And now I suppose we should NOT forget what day  it is on Sunday, yup it is Hoomans Mothers Day event – I think that is the most important one of all. What are you going to be doing for your Mom on Mothers Day. Me, am gonna try let her sleep in and behave.
 
We decided that all Moms needs something special for themselves so as a Mothers Day GiveAway we are going to spoil one Mom with a wonderful Rescue Tote Bag and Guatemalan Dog Walkers Bag.  They are amazing, I love mine that I received from PawZaar and find it to be the best I have come across to date. It holds a lot and makes my life so easy when going out for the day. What I really love about it is the side pockets for treats, bottle of water and whatever else I need handy. Plus the Dog Walkers Bag I used as a small inside purse and put my camera and phone it it.
One lucky winner will win the Rescue Tote Bag plus a color of their choice of the Dog Walkers Bag (Excluding purple as purple is out of stock)
 
What I especially love about Pawzaar is they donate to rescues with every sale that is done so every one benefits from them. These are the kind of businesses I love to work with and are important to me.
This give away is open to Canada also.
 
Have you checked out their website :  https://www.pawzaar.com
Now am off here to get some beauty sleep before the fancy gala tonight, have a wonderful week every pawdy with a woof and love from Layla

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Wednesday Woof with Memories

May has arrived !!!
Spring is here I hope for everyone and the flowers are blooming, the chill is disappearing and everyone will be able to spend more time outdoors with our dogs. What a wonderful feeling.
May also brings back memories for me, not good ones but ones that I can say I am blessed to have had and those are with Baby R.I.P.
I will never forget going to the shelter to choose a dog, my ex told me to choose and then like anything else in an abusive relationship it was what she wanted or nothing so Baby came to live with us. That was 07 May 2006.
She was a cute little chiweenie, full of love and I could not have asked for a better friend through the hard times. Because of her I was able to escape the daily abuse by taking her for long walks, sometimes sitting under a tree and watching the world go by with her in my arms, she kept me alive in many ways during that awful period of my life.
She was the reason I stayed in the Domestic Violence relationship as I was not prepared to leave her there but the minute I had the chance I ran with her. It was hard, stressful but I would do it all over. She was my hero.
Many Domestic Violence victims to this day say I stayed in the relationship because of my pets and I so fully understand them, they are your children and you would not leave them behind to be abused so would rather take the abuse to protect them.
So as those May memories go through my mind I am blessed to have had her, we had a couple of years of freedom together where I over spoiled her with no regrets, when she passed which was one of the hardest days of my life, I waited and then adopted Layla.
Layla is my rock, she keeps me amused, makes me smile, and is blessed to have not gone through those dark days with me but instead has had the chance to have sunny ones and this month brings the sunny days to us.
So let us all count our blessings, say thanks for what we have, material items are great but they cannot measure the unconditional love of a pet and if I had to choose between the two i would go for the pet.
Layla is now off to sleep as usual while I carry on working,
With love and woofs
Layla