Month: August 2024

National Holistic Pet Day

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TGIF! Good morning, friends, can you believe August is nearly over and we have 4 months till the end of the year. That is crazy as the year has gone so fast and so much has happened in the Layla Neighborhood. This is Nili speaking as I am sure you know my sister is running and playing over the Rainbow Bridge and I have stepped in to speak for her and all our friends all over the world.

Today is National Holistic Pet Day, which is very important as we need to raise awareness of holistic pet wellness and health, and we depend on human parents to keep us healthy. What that means is that we humans must consider holistic health by considering their diet, environment and lifestyle. Are you doing that? I do not have any chemicals in the house, I clean everything with Apple Cider Vinegar so the house is chemical free.

I have lost my Kong so keep my brain active it is snuffle toy time with carrots

Since adopting Nili I have done some changes and of course added supplements as I am trying to figure out what is the best diet for her, yes, I home cooked for Layla but am looking more into the raw diet for her, trying different foods out till I find the one that I think is best for her. She is still a young dog, full of energy and was a stray so building up her immune system is one of my first priorities. Layla was on an amazing senior supplement from Vetericyn called All In 1 for seniors and they have for all ages, so I have put Nili on the adult one, and as she loves eating LOL, she gobbles it down each morning. The one plus with it is it has a calming ingredient in it which makes it easier for training also as she is not so hyperactive and more focused.

Another reason I swear by their products is they have fantastic skin products for dogs which helped Layla a lot so knowing that I have them for Nili now also and I know she is getting the best.

You can read more about them on their website  : https://vetericyn.com/

Nili has pearly white beautiful teeth, no plaque no nothing so I am focused on keeping her teeth that way by using the Tropiclean Dental Products, I am cleaning her teeth with their Water Additive which has no taste so she does not know she is drinking it, their Brushing Gel which I am using a finger brush to clean her teeth with, this is still a work in progress but she will slowly get used to it, and I also have minty Dental Wipes to use on her teeth if I cannot brush them as she is resisting.

You can read more about them on their website :  https://www.tropiclean.com/

I also each night as a last treat gets a dental chew, so she goes to sleep with clean teeth and good smelling breath.

And then of course there are the mushrooms which I swear by and Nili every night gets the Real Mushrooms Relax to calm her down and settle for the night which has made a big difference as her last night walk is calmer, and once home she settles down and goes to sleep till about 6 in the morning.

Their website is: https://shop.realmushrooms.com/?ref=488

relaxing sleepy after my last walk

Her training is on top of the list also, and a friend of mine has given me a clicker which seems to be slowly working. Nili is very treat motivated so am giving her carrots as treats as they are not fattening and she loves them. I have been giving them to her in her Kong also, but we have now lost the Kong as I cannot find it, so I am stuffing carrots into a snuffle toy which keeps her busy.  Unfortunately, till her training is not perfect as possible I cannot take her to the park to run as I cannot take the chance, and she needs to learn first. Thank goodness I have friends with gardens and they being great letting me take her to them to run wild and let off some energy.

where are my treats

 

So today being National Holistic Pet Day we need to remember that it is not only what they eat, but their lifestyle and environment is just as important to keep them healthy and whatever steps we can take is for everyone’s benefit in the end.

 

I am now going to squeak some toys as my job is done for the day,

Have a wonderful weekend everyone,

With love and woofs from Nili

 

 

 

 

What a week

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TGIF!! It is finally the weekend, and I really need it, Nili the energizer bunny does not slow down from morning to night. I love her to death, and she is so busy, it is cute but exhausting LOL.

Last weekend Gidget came to spend two days with us, one night. I have been dog sitting Gidget for over four years, I know her quirks, her naughtiness and I adore her but last weekend was a nightmare. Gidget did not like Nili and they fought nonstop. I did not sleep as I was worried they would fight during the night. Gidget guarded my bed and would not let Nili on it, and if she did get on the bed there was a lot of growling so I would lie between the two of them to keep peace, Nili was just as much to blame in someways as she would bounce around on the floor, barking at Gidget wanting to play and it was not happening. To cut a long story short, my arms are blue with bruises, wounds here and there, and I concluded that there will never be a friendship between these two. Nili is ok with Nigel spending time in my house, so it was not the first time I had a doggy visitor in the house. It was a lesson for me also and something that I must work on with Nili.

The first hour when they lay on the bed together before all hell broke out

Nili met with a trainer on Monday, I learnt to use the command circle when she sees another dog with a treat in my hand and it is slowly working phew, the other command was touch which makes her smell my hand where there is a treat to get her to focus on my hand and not let her get distracted which is slowly working and she now does not try jump and run after people, skateboards, or cyclists.   It is a work in progress and hopefully soon walking will be fun. She must learn to stop playing tug of war with her leash when I put her harness on which I am working on also. Nili is a clever girl, the trainer said it to me, but she knows how to manipulate me also LOL and I have to not let that happen. It is like any relationship we work together to get that happy balance and that is what I am working on.

Focusing on my trainer for a treat, Nili

After the meeting we went to my friend’s garden to hang out and relax in the sun, it actually was so hot we moved into the shade, but it was great to just sit back, relax and enjoy the outdoors. The plus with the garden is Nili can run freely about sniffing and exploring with no worries as she cannot get out. She was one happy tired girl when we got home but it was just what the doctor needed, she napped all afternoon LOL.

Relaxing in the shade in the garden

She met on the way home a cute little dog that looks like her and they tried playing but both were on leash but it was cute and relaxed me in the way that she does want to play but little fluffy dogs are the answer so I cannot wait for her to be ready for a Shi Tzu meet up where she will have fun. I am wondering if she is afraid of big dogs as being a stray something could have happened in her past.

Nili meeting Levi

I also got dental chews this week for her as I am trying to keep her teeth pearly white the way they are now so before bed at night she gets one and that is her last treat for the night, she loves them which is great as I know she is going to sleep with clean teeth.

So life has been busy, am out and about when I have to go, I am leaving her at home till she is fully trained, she loves her squeaky toys and keeps herself busy when I am not at home and how I know is all the toys on the floor LOL, I also got her a Kong which I stuff with carrots and she cannot get enough of that so am happy that she is happy plus of course the window watch which she loves.

 

 

And we must not forget, August is Empty the Shelters month and we need to keep speaking out for the shelter dogs and help them get homes, especially as the shelters are overflowing and so many are needing homes.

 

Before Nili goes to bed, we want to say a special thank you shout out to Anne from us for introducing Nili to everyone, we are truly honored, you can read about it on her blog on this link : https://zoolatry.blogspot.com/2024/08/nili-our-friend.html

 

Have a wonderful weekend everyone, thank you for dropping by to say hi, hug your fur kids tight

With woof and love

Nili

 

 

 

 

Living with a younger dog

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Woof Everyone, the weekend has arrived, and I am so looking forward to it. I need to charge my batteries as Nili is keeping me on my toes all the time LOL.

 

After living with a senior dog for more than 3 years (Layla was with me for over 14 years) and now adopting a young pup I am learning a lot and realizing sometimes how Layla spoiled me with her calm personality when she was younger. One of the big differences I have learned is that Layla was dumped in a shelter whereas Nili was a stray and there is a big difference there. They both were the same age when I got them but personality wise very different. Nili is a wild child.

I am learning daily from this and have no regrets as I adore Nili but she is a work in process till we get her trained properly so life will be easier for both of us, and I will be then able to take her on proper adventures.  She is learning fast but there are things that need to be corrected and since her being spayed last week I have put all on hold so that I could focus on her healing with no complications. One of the things the vet made me understand was that she was not to jump on anything and have short walks which was difficult as she is a bundle of energy and unfortunately not burning it all off as she is not allowed to play with toys either. To help with this I decided to sleep on the floor next to her so she would not jump on the bed, it has not been easy for me, and I have not slept properly plus Nili thinks it’s a game and she is wanting cuddles and playtime with me when I am trying to sleep. So, I am functioning on lack of sleep at this moment and slowly collapsing from exhaustion. She is on a sedative to keep her calm, but it is not working as well as I was hoping LOL. Her wound thank goodness is healing well, and hopefully tomorrow, Friday the cone will come off and life will get back to sort of normal. I am giving her CBD oil at night to really get her calm and sleepy and we finally have got to her sleeping till about 6 in the morning but when she is awake that’s it, she is wanting to go out. That is one of the main issues I have with her as she runs out on her leash barking at the world which needs to stop. She has realized that I have treats in my pocket so in the middle of a walk she will sit down and not move till she gets a treat, who is the boss in the family HA.

Moping with her cone on

I have my harness and leash on can we go out please, Nili

She has finally starting to sleep in the bed and loves it

We are meeting with a dog trainer on Monday which hopefully will help me solve all the problems although I know Rome was not built in one day, but praying things will fall into place soon.

On Saturday Gidget is coming to spend the weekend with us, two days only, which is going to be interesting to see how Nili reacts, this was something I had arranged with Gidget’s Mom months ago so chaos will be in the house for two days, but they are so similar in personality it is going to be fun plus good for Nili to have someone to play with. My house I know is going to be a total disaster.

Another thing I have to keep reminding myself is that Layla was a picky eater where as Nili eats anything she can get her mouth on so I am now realizing that shopping for her is actually quite easy and I am relieved. She loves her squeaky toys, bully sticks keep her busy so we are getting there with that. One thing she hates is having her teeth cleaned and hides at the front door every night when I put the teeth gel in her mouth but will not give in as her teeth are perfect at this moment and I want to keep them that way.

We must not forget that August is clear the shelters month, and watching what is going on in this country is breaking my heart daily, and we must spread the word and push for the banning of Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeders plus get all pet stores to stop selling puppies, hopefully that way it will help the problem.

I am open to all ideas for training Nili if you have any,

Have a peaceful fun weekend and don’t forget to hug your pets, I am off to bed,

Her favorite sleeping position BOL

With a woof and love

From Nili and Me

 

 

 

Nili has been home two weeks today

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Nili has been home two weeks today and for those that say rescues take time to settle in, this Madam has taken over the house LOL.

She is going to get spayed tomorrow, (Friday) which I am relieved that I got an earlier appointment which means we must be at the SPCA at 7.15 am to do check in and will be there till about 4 pm. Yes, I am worried but also have all the faith in the vets. Once that is done, and she has healed, we can get on with our lives with lots of training and adventures. She must fast from 11 pm tonight but will survive with no food or treats till after the surgery. She is allowed to drink water though. I do not have any regrets spaying her as there are so many unwanted puppies and mature dogs in the shelters that are desperate for homes, and I do not want an accident and then be part of the problem. Spaying or Neutering is a must for all our pets.  People can argue with me about this issue, but I stand firmly on this subject and nothing will make me change my mind.

This month is clear the shelters month, which is so important as they are over flowing and the more shelter dogs or cats that get adopted the less in the shelters and then less pets will be euthanized which breaks my heart, as innocent animals are being killed to make room for more and none have any say in it and that is why we need to speak out for the voiceless so their voices can be heard.

Layla in the shelter – Empty the shelters please

Nili in the shelter – Empty the Shelters please

Now that I have spoken out for the voiceless which is Layla’s legacy, I am going to share what has been happening here. Nili went on first adventure last Saturday to visit a friend of mine in his garden which gave her some outdoor time and freedom off leash. I took her on public transport in the backpack which she did not like but with patience and love she will get used to it. It is much safer than her being in my life especially if the train or bus is full. I strapped her into the backpack, but Madam managed to get out and a passenger caught her as she was dangling from it. She could not go far phew and I put her back in with some firm words and then she sat in in the rest of the way but was very happy to get out of it when we got to our destination. She is very devious and smart, knows what she wants and will do anything to get her own way, but it is not working as I do not give in.

I do not like this contraption

It was hot but we moved into the shade

She wakes up at 6 each morning and does not stop till about 9 at night after last walk. Her appetite is great, and she loves treats. Now talking about treats, she has a secret admirer as she got a parcel this week of Bully Sticks and Biscuits from not sure who as there was no sender address or name on the envelope, I have asked everyone, and no one has an answer for me. So, am stuck with the question who sent it?

https://youtube.com/shorts/p8LT6kCYNpw?si=f3mKu6DxH0ViBhvt

Otherwise, she loves her squeaky toys and plays with them nonstop, keeps herself occupied which is awesome and she is okay with me leaving her at home for a couple of hours when I need to, so I am very blessed to have her share my life.

One of my favorite photos LOL

 

So life in this neighborhood is going great, I have no complaints and cannot wait to start enjoying outdoors again, have a wonderful weekend everyone, please be safe and hug your pets tightly making memories

 

With a woof and love

From Nili

First week with Nili

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Good morning, friends, we hope you have had a wonderful week and like us looking forward to the weekend.

Yesterday was National Mutt Day

As you all know I arrived home last week, wow a week at home already and I have become the official spokesperson for Layla speaking out and keeping Layla’s legacy going. It is very important as we must not be silent.

Today, the first of August was Dogust Day, it is the Universal Birthdays for Shelter Dogs as many do not know when their actual birthday is, so we celebrate ii on the first of August so that they know they are loved plus of course we want to fulfil their dreams of having a home for themselves with love, a comfy bed and so much more. A place they can live with happiness and a family, so I, Nili who is one of the lucky ones, prays that their dreams come true also.

My first week home with Mom has been exciting, fun, lots of food and toys to play with, lots of cuddles from Mom which I love but Mom has also come to the conclusion that I have lot to learn.

  1. Pulling on my leash – Mom is training me at this moment as best as she can before she says she falls and hurts herself, oy vey.
  2. Eating off the sidewalks – yumm although Mom is not impressed and she is taking things out of my mouth all the time, I need to stop that, but it is so yumm I do not want to, BOL.
  3. Trying to jump on the kitchen counter, it is too high but I try although Mom keeps everything on top of the fridge.
  4. Barking, I love barking and if I could stop but am starting to listen to Mom and slowly giving up on that although I told her I am guarding the house she is not impressed.

I am trying to be a good girl, listening to Mom but she says the sooner I learn the happier our walks will be, so I think I need to try more but it is not easy when the temptation is there although I should remember that Mom has food and treats at home for me always.

My favorite past time is looking out the window of our home and barking at all the people going by but even Mom is proud of me as I am not barking at them that much and the best of all is squeaking my toys and playing with them. Mom bought me my first own toy this week as I have not had one accident in the house phew and I got a lamb chop squeaky which I love.

The video shows how busy she is and the constant toy mess on my bed, she was looking for one of her toys in the video below LOL.

https://youtu.be/0X_7oimpRSI?si=xIwbbYv8kDgKfnKO

So, friends, I am a young pup, maybe 3 years old that got lost in a big city as I was not microchipped which I am now, and I need to learn to live in a home with lots of love, cuddles, Moms bed which I hog and so much more I am very blessed. But being young I need to learn also and am going to try harder now as I am safe. Please make sure your pups are microchipped and the information is up to date so it will not happen to your pets the way it happened to me.

Mom took me for a bath today, I do not like them ewwww but she says I smell clean and fruity now so she is happy. She was not impressed with me though cos as we left the pet store after my bath, I grabbed a packet of treats and tried walking out with them, Mom took them from my mouth and gave to the cashier apologizing but everyone in the store thought it was hilarious BOL.

This weekend, if I am good, I am going on my first adventure. Because I do not get spayed till the 9th I cannot go to dog parks yet to play so Mom is going to take me to Layla’s Uncle David so we can sit in his garden and I can wander around. I am really excited as it will mean me going on a train also in the backpack which I will have to be strapped into so I do not try and run.

Have a happy weekend everyone, take care and hug your pets

With love and woof

Nili

August 2024 Pet Holidays and Observances

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Hi it is me Nili and I am speaking for my sister Layla.

WOW August has arrived and that means 2024 is nearly over, what a year and it has gone so fast.

Month

  • Clear the Shelters.
  • Itchy Pet Awareness Month.
  • National Dog Month.
  • World Mutt-i-grees Rescue Month.

Week

  • 4-10: International Assistance Dog Week
  • 4-10: Give a Dog a Bone WeekOne-Day Holidays

Days

  • Aug. 1: DOGust Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs.
  • Aug. 4: Assistance Dog Day.
  • Aug. 5: Work Like a Dog Day.
  • Aug. 8: International Cat Day.
  • April 8: National Catahoula Day.
  • Aug. 8: National Cat Day in Canada.
  • Aug. 8: National Odie Day. Celebrating Garfield’s cheerful sidekick.
  • Aug. 10: Snoopy’s Birthday. Peanuts Worldwide celebrates the birthday of the world’s favorite beagle on this day.
  • Aug. 10: National Spoil Your Dog Day. We’ve got dozens of ways to spoil your dog–even more than you do the rest of the year!
  • Aug. 15: National Check the Chip Day.
  • Aug. 16: Saint Roch’s Day. Patron saint of dogs.
  • Aug. 17: National Black Cat Appreciation Day.
  • Aug. 17: National Nonprofit Day.
  • Aug. 17: International Homeless Animals’ Day. Third Saturday in August.
  • Aug. 22: National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day.
  • Aug. 23: International Blind Dog Day
  • Aug. 26: National Dog Day.
  • Aug. 28: Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day.
  • Aug. 30: National Holistic Pet Day.

Happy August Everyone with a woof from Nili