Dog Home Care

The first time my vet mentioned a professional dog teeth cleaning, I nearly choked on the estimate. It was $500 to $3,000 for teeth (no gold plating). That was almost a decade ago, right after I adopted Henry. I made a commitment that day to figure out how to keep his teeth clean without putting … Read more

Oatmeal for dogs can be a simple, affordable way to add a little variety to your dog’s diet. But there are a few important rules to know first. Plain, cooked oatmeal is generally safe for dogs in moderation. It provides fiber and some nutrients, but too much can cause digestive upset, and flavored oatmeal can … Read more

When disaster strikes, there’s rarely time to think about what your dog needs. Whether you’re evacuating because of a wildfire, hurricane, flood, tornado, or another emergency, having a dog emergency kit ready can make an incredibly stressful situation much easier. I live in a wildfire-prone area with my rescue dog, Henry. Every summer, we keep … Read more

Chew, Pee, Love Most dog parents budget for food, annual vet visits, treats, and maybe grooming. Very few budget for: The surprising part is that most of those expenses don’t appear overnight. They usually start small, with preventable problems. What surprised me after adopting Henry and becoming a dog mom was that the biggest hidden … Read more

You may have discovered why your dog is destroying your home. Now, you need to know how to stop destructive dog behavior. Half the battle is over by knowing the why. Now, you simply have to match the why to the best solution for your pup and you. Thankfully, most destructive behavior improves once you … Read more

You come in from work. Your dog happily greets you at the door. Then you spot the big hole in your new couch. You may even ask “Why is my dog destroying my house?”  It’s a common issue among dog parents. But you should know your dog didn’t shred your couch out of spite. No. … Read more

If you’re trying to calm a dog during fireworks, thunderstorms, separation anxiety, or another stressful situation, several solutions may help. Safe spaces, calming supplements, pressure wraps, heartbeat toys, and veterinarian-approved medications can all reduce anxiety in some dogs. The challenge is that every dog responds differently. What worked for my rescue Cockapoo, Henry, wasn’t a … Read more

Summer comes with longer days, fun gatherings, and warm (actually hot) weather. It can be fun and memorable for you and your dog. But avoiding the hazards that come with summer is always foremost on dog parents’ minds. I’m watching my dog more closely and making sure he doesn’t get overheated. These summer safety tips … Read more

Do you love relaxing in a hot tub or booking vacation rentals with one? If your dog follows you everywhere, you may wonder: Can dogs go in hot tubs? The short answer is no. Hot tubs can be dangerous for dogs and may lead to overheating, dehydration, chemical exposure, or even emergency vet visits. Even … Read more

You just settled into your comfy chair after a long day. Then your dog starts whining for no apparent reason. You feed your pup. He’s played outside, gone pee, and even had a dog treat. So why is your dog crying? This happens more than you think to dog parents. Even if there doesn’t appear … Read more

Most dog parents wash their pup’s bowls when they look dirty. But how often should you actually wash dog bowls to keep your dog safe and healthy? I get it. Life is busy, and adding one more chore can feel like too much. I’ve definitely been guilty of putting it off, too. But the problem … Read more

A dog licking paws is a common behavior that can be a normal grooming routine or a sign of allergies, anxiety, pain, or infection. An occasional paw licking is usually harmless. But compulsive paw licking in dogs can signal an underlying issue that shouldn’t be ignored. If you’ve caught yourself wondering, “Why is my dog licking … Read more

A neighbor dog barking nonstop can quickly turn your home into a stressful place. When it goes on for hours or happens every day, it’s more than annoying. It’s exhausting. If your neighbor’s dog won’t stop barking, you’re not alone, and there are simple ways to fix it without ruining your relationship. The key is … Read more

Have you ever walked into your home and found a pee puddle your pup left? One of the most common issues dog parents struggle to balance is how long can dogs hold their pee, especially on long workdays, during bad weather, when you’re sick, or when life gets busy. Most dogs can hold their pee … Read more

A lot of dog parents like me live with a pup who struggles with dog digestive sensitivity. My sweet pup, Henry, has digestive sensitivity that requires me to manage it every day.  Over the years, I’ve discovered a few tricks that really help keep his tummy calm, happy, and healthy. I’ve even learned how to … Read more

Most pet parents don’t wake up with a plan to add new dog daily routine behavior problems to their list of worries. Actually, many of us are doing what should be the right thing with longer walks, better food, enrichment toys, and consistent training. Yet problems like digging, barking, chewing, and anxiety can still be … Read more

Have you thought about the outdoor steps to keep your dog safe during the holiday season? Most dogs, like my dog, Henry, loves to play in the snow, but knowing the essential outdoor holiday dog safety steps to take is vital for a happy season.  The holidays are full of fun, lights, glitter, excitement, noises, … Read more

Who doesn’t love the holiday season filled with family, friends, yummy treats, and joyful memories? It can be a fun time of year, but creating a dog friendly holiday home is important when you’re a dog parent. Of course, the holidays can create more stress for dogs. There are so many new smells, noises, decorations, … Read more

Most dog parents love sharing the holidays with their pups and pets. But avoiding seasonal pet and dog holiday hazards makes the season merrier. You may know some items that your dog shouldn’t get into, like tinsel or chocolate. I didn’t know the full list either until I researched it.  While I love to include … Read more

Have you ever wondered if there are dog crate benefits? Maybe you think it’s just another expense for pet parents. Actually, a simple dog crate cannot only aid in your dog’s health, but also reduce your expenses. I know, when I bought a crate for my dog, Henry, I researched what he needed. Not all … Read more

Do you know that your dog’s nose is as much as 100,000 times stronger than your nose? That explains how your pup can sniff a stale piece of popcorn under your couch that fell there nearly a year ago.  Everyone loves a cute dog nose boop. But your dog’s nose is more than just cute. … Read more

If your dog’s stinky breath is able to clear a room, it could be a red flag. A healthy mouth for dogs can impact everything from their appetite to their heart health. I’m sure you’ve heard a million times that the mouth and teeth are the gateway to good health. I’ve definitely heard this one a … Read more

Do you have a picky eating dog? It’s a common issue among dog parents.  Understanding why your dog is finicky is key. Then you can find viable solutions. My dog, Henry, has been picky with certain foods I’ve offered him. There could be a multitude of reasons for it. But once you discover why, you … Read more

It could surprise you to know that 10 million dogs and cats go missing each year. What should you do if your furry friend is missing to be reunited? Perhaps you also don’t know the sad fact that there’s a 31% increase in lost dogs on and around July 4th. While it’s scary when your … Read more

On average a dog will poop 274 pounds a year with one to three deposits a day. That means a lot of dog poop disposal each year as well.   You may not think that picking up your pet waste or using a proper dog poop disposal method matters. But it does matter and can quickly … Read more

With 65.1 million households in the U.S. being home to dog owners and their furry family members, and vet costs rising, it’s a great idea to take measures to reduce costs. One easy step is simply not using a retractable leash on your pup.  When I adopted my dog, Henry, I saw many people using … Read more

Spring brings warmer weather, longer days, and more outdoor adventures, but it also brings hazards and transitions your dog may not be ready for yet. Knowing how to prepare your dog for spring helps you keep them healthy, safe, and happy all season long. So, as you tackle your spring cleaning tasks, keep in mind … Read more

Dog digging furniture can go from mildly annoying to seriously expensive, very fast. One day, it’s a little scratching, the next day, your couch looks like it lost a fight. The tricky part is that digging is a completely natural dog behavior. Your pup isn’t being bad, instead your buddy is trying to solve a … Read more

Emergency vet visits can be one of the most expensive and stressful visits a pet parent endures. Thus, eliminating home accidents and pet household poisons is a great idea.  Perhaps you are aware of the common human foods, like chocolate and garlic, or even toxic plants to avoid for your fur kids. However, you may … Read more

A dog ID seems like such a simple thing, but it can mean all the difference to your dog and you. According to a recent Oklahoma survey, only 33% of pets have an ID tag. More importantly, 48% of lost pets with a tag are successfully reunited with their owners. However, a combination of an ID … Read more

While we may all love our furry canines, the associated dog costs can be mind-blowing! USA Today recently stated that dog expenses can be in excess of $4,500 a year.  YIKES!!! But there are ways to lower your dog costs and still provide great dog care. Some options you can even do in a day. … Read more

Is your dog constantly itching, licking their paws, or dealing with irritated skin? Dog allergies can be frustrating, not just for your pup, but for your wallet, too. Natural remedies for dog allergies can help soothe symptoms without relying solely on expensive medications. I’ve been there myself. My dog Henry struggled with allergies for years, … Read more

Do you cringe at a dog toilet drinking? I’m going to bet you’ve never sipped from your porcelain king. Yet, there are many dog toilet bowl drinkers.  Dogs seem to love some of the grossest things. Even some of their food smells like it could peel the paint off the walls. But then they want … Read more

Think sunscreen for dogs is only for a pampered pet? Do you know that 20-40% of skin tumors in dogs are cancerous? While some breeds are predisposed to skin cancer, you can take steps to lessen the risk. Although serious skin damage, specifically malignant melanoma, is less frequent in dogs, it can be extremely aggressive. … Read more

I know this seems a bit simplistic. How on earth can you save money when you dry your dog? But it’s true! I do it with my dog, Henry. Basically, properly drying your dog’s ears, privates, paws, and joints, can keep your pup healthy and reduce your vet bill. Not only that but you can … Read more

Yes, it’s true that knowing the best dog accessory cleaning tips can save you money! As a pet parent, we can spend a lot on collars, leashes, bowls, sweaters, toys, beds, and other accessories. But if we don’t properly care for these often well-loved dog accessories, we can be hit with more vet bills and … Read more

What are the top basic dog needs? I know for my dog, Henry, I’m always looking for ways to provide him with great health on a budget. But is this really possible? Actually, yes! When you break down the steps, our pups really need the basics to not just survive but also thrive. Moreover, many … Read more

I know when looking for cost savings with your dog, you may not think about quality dog food benefits. However, what your dog eats is critical to everything else. This is certainly true with my dog, Henry. However, I also realize those ads, pretty colored bags, and sales might be tempting. But they may not … Read more

Would you be surprised to learn that more than 72% of dogs experience anxiety? Your anxious pup is not alone with this ailment according to a survey published on Science Reports. The issue then becomes, how to help your furry buddy deal with anxiety in an effective manner. A heartbeat stuffed animal could be the … Read more

Do you worry that your dog is a bit on the pudgy side? But then think, maybe my pup is the ideal dog weight shape for him.  Or perhaps, you look at your dog and think, “Oh he’s so skinny!” and throw him another dog treat or extra food.  I admit, that I’ve wondered about … Read more

Are you looking for more ways to save on your dog expenses? I know I’ve always got my eyes out for ways to save money for my dog, Henry. Do you love coconut oil? I do. It can help your dog as well in various ways. Today, let’s dig in and discover the great budget-friendly … Read more

If your dog won’t stop scratching, licking, or scooting, dry skin could be the culprit. It can get expensive fast if it turns into infections or vet visits. The good news is that there are simple, cheap remedies for dog dry skin that actually work. Even better is that many are already in your home. … Read more

Does your dog have a sensitive stomach? Are you simply not sure? My dog Henry has a very sensitive stomach. I often worry about him. But I’ve consulted his vet and developed a plan that has helped his stomach issues, while not costing me much money. Today, let’s dig in and discover how to improve … Read more

It may not be surprising to learn that more than half of pet parents in the US worry about their fur kids’ health more than they do their own. Is there a way to reduce this stress and increase your dog’s immunity? Of course, your fur kids’ health may ebb and flow over time. But … Read more

Are you always on the lookout for ways to reduce your dog expenses, while still providing your dog with great care? I definitely fall into this category. There are many ways to save money on your dog expenses. Additionally, there are ways to reduce your dog’s expenses. Some are very easy and actionable (my favorite). … Read more

Dog eye care may not be part of your dog that you think of naturally to tend to on a daily basis. But your dog’s eyes are vital. Just like your eyes, they help your dog see and navigate the world. The goal is to keep them healthy and free of needing extra vet care, … Read more

Do you ever wonder what your dog’s paws are tracking into your home, or what they might be trying to tell you? Those little toe beans go through more than we realize, year-round, with debris, ice, snow, stickers, and mystery gunk. My dog, Henry, is the perfect example. He’ll leap through the yard like he’s … Read more

A dog safe space sounds like a space free of dogs, doesn’t it? That’s not a space I would like. Actually, I don’t think it’s a space, my dog, Henry would like either. Does your dog ever seem like he or she needs some space or alone time? Or does your dog suffer from anxiety? … Read more

Water is something that seems obvious, but it can easily be overlooked as beneficial for our dogs. It’s an essential part of life for all beings, including our dogs. I know I’m always monitoring my dog Henry’s water consumption. Are you the same way? Or do you just fill up the bowl when it’s empty? … Read more

Do you smoke? Maybe your partner smokes? Is your dog exposed to passive secondhand smoke? Heck, what is passive smoking, and how does it affect a dog’s health? Have you ever wondered if secondhand or even thirdhand smoke hurts your dog? I admit I don’t smoke. Although, I do have friends who smoke. They have … Read more

Cleaning your dog’s ears might seem intimidating, but it’s really easy. Some dogs even enjoy the process, like my dog, Henry. It may only take a few minutes to clean your dog’s ears, but it helps to keep your dog healthy. Even better, it helps to keep your vet bills down. Sometimes I’m amazed at … Read more

Sadly, most accidents, even for furry friends happen at home. So, you may ask is there a way to pet and dog my home? Yes, and you can save money in the process as well. I know I always get a charge knowing I did something good, but also was able to save a bit … Read more

I bet you’re wondering why my dog needs a makeover. Maybe it’s weeks between grooming appointments and he or she smells like a dog toy that has been sitting in a mud hole for a month. I know Henry gets a bit “doggie smelling” between baths and grooming. But who has time to spend hours … Read more

I know a rolly-polly puppy can be so cute. It also can be irresistible to not give a dog treat to a cute doggo asking for something yummy. But is overfeeding a dog harmful? This may be an eye-opening one not only for your dog’s health but also for your dog’s budget. Today, let’s dig … Read more

Do you take fish oil pills? How about your dog? I bet you’ve never thought that fish oil could cut your dog costs. I mean how on earth is that possible? It could be a smelly fish tale, or is that tail? Heck, we’ve all heard a lot of weird things that are supposed to … Read more

A little-known secret to cutting your dog’s expenses is found in your kitchen. Not only can you cut your dog’s costs while you’re in the kitchen, but also you can improve your pup’s health. Think you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen? Or maybe you don’t think you can save that much? This … Read more

It’s actually true a dog license can save your dog and other pets. You might be thinking that’s odd, my dog doesn’t even drive, why on earth does he need a license? Well, this is a different type of license. While you might not have heard of a dog license, or maybe grumbled at having … Read more

According to a survey conducted by OnePoll, Americans spend a bit over $190 hosting parties every year. What do you do when hosting a party with your dog? Whatever the party occasion or time of year, you always want it to be fun and memorable for all the right reasons. Yet, if you have an … Read more

Got dog expense debt? If so, you’re not alone. There’s no doubt that dogs can be expensive. Heck, pet costs in general are expensive. However, the joy they bring to us and our families is priceless. I know my dog, Henry is part of my family. He certainly brings me joy. He’s often my entertainment … Read more

Have you heard about a pet savings account? Are you always worried about the “what if” medical expense with your dog? As a good pet parent, when I adopted Henry, I immediately looked into pet insurance. However, I was a bit dismayed to find out that because of his unknown breed and age, his monthly … Read more

How do I remember dog essentials? Life is hectic and it’s easy to forget things, even for our dogs. I know I’ve been guilty of forgetting even the basic things like cleaning Henry’s teeth when the morning has upset my routine. I’ve had pet parents say they have a difficult time juggling their dog and … Read more

Are gemstones just pretty or is there such a thing as healing crystals? While there is not any scientific evidence on the subject, there are some anecdotal studies, which are interesting. The use of crystals dates back to ancient Egypt. While some may adhere to the metaphysical properties of gemstones, what power do they really … Read more

It seems like the costs of everything, including everything dog is going up? Are you experiencing the same thing? It can be defeating at times when your income stays the same or maybe even decreases. Are you looking for ways to cut dog expenses? I’ve discovered that our shelters are starting to overflow again. There … Read more

Do you have the important dog parent phone numbers plugged into your phone? Knowing what to do in a panic situation with your dog is critical. I learned from my grandparents that the key to most things is good preparation. That got me to look at my phone to see if I was properly prepared … Read more

If another dog attacks your dog, your adrenaline kicks in fast. In the moment, it can feel impossible to think clearly. But knowing what to do beforehand can help protect both you and your dog. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to break up a dog attack safely, when to seek emergency vet … Read more

If your dog has ever come back from a walk covered in sticky tree sap, you know how frustrating it can be. Sap sticks to fur like glue, collects dirt, and can turn brushing into a painful mess. Many dog owners search for solutions when they notice sticky pine sap, tree sap, or pitch stuck … Read more

Giving your dog a bath can be a royal pain in the back – literally if you have a bad back. Like millions of people, I fall into the bad back category. I needed an easy way to bathe my dog, Henry while not killing my back. At my last physical therapy appointment, I asked … Read more

I know brushing your dog seems like a mundane task. And depending on the time of year, a rather furry one. However, just like you shower, brush your teeth and comb your hair, there’s more to it than vanity. It helps to maintain better health for your dog. My dog, Henry, is a testament to … Read more

Clickty, clickty, click, click. Do you hear the sound of your dog’s nails? It may be time to trim them. While it could be a nice alarm system, long dog nails can actually harm your pup. YIKES! I know a lot of women love beautiful, long, painted fingernails. But we have hands and not paws. … Read more

I have sworn for years being able to open dog poo bags ought to be an Olympic sport. They never open easily and your dog always wants to hurry along to the next sniffing spot. A rainstorm only adds to the torture. Why must they be so difficult to open anyhow? It’s not like it’s … Read more

Dogs are a great addition to a family. But trying to learn everything you need to know as a new dog parent can be a bit daunting. Especially if you’ve never been a dog owner. Like with anything in life, it helps to do a little research. Otherwise, we end up learning from our mistakes. … Read more

There’s been a lot of talk in recent years about turmeric and how beneficial it can be for us humans and even our dogs. But is there anything behind this chatter? Is there anything to these touted benefits? Have you heard about the turmeric benefits for dogs? Today let’s dig in and discover if there’s … Read more

There are many options for buying your dog’s supplies how you chose an online pet supply store is vital and customer service should be top of the list. While I like to support my local merchants, it’s not always possible. There are times when home delivery is just much more convenient or even necessary. In … Read more

Dog massage therapy at home sounds relaxing and like something dog parents would like in on as well, right? What are the benefits of dog massage therapy at home? Can a dog parent even do it properly? Is it safe? Or is it just a bunch of feel-good stuff that someone made up? Today, let’s … Read more

There are simple ways to cure a smelly dog smell. Do you have a smelly dog? Should your “Friend” Phoebe write a “Smelly Dog” song about your pup? I know we’ve all had the experience of going to kiss our dog only to be gagged by his smelly dog odor. It’s not a pleasant experience. … Read more

Experts predict another hot summer this year. As pet parents, that means keeping our furry friends cool Dogs can quickly overheat. But thankfully, there are lots of ways to turn your hot dog into a chill one for free. Avoiding overheating is always the goal for our pups. Having a toolkit of ideas with easy … Read more

It’s important to stay calm when disaster hits, including a car breaking down, in the heat with your dog. With the summer heat comes more travel and fun activities. Is the beach or mountain calling to you and your dog? But what do you do if you’re on your way to a fun outing, and … Read more

What is the best dog treat for your pup? Wow! That can be a difficult question. There are many times when we reward our pup with a yummy dog treat. But there are so many types available. Naturally, your dog’s needs are first and foremost when considering a dog cookie. For example, I like to make … Read more

An aggressive dog has a reason for the behavior. When you find the trigger, you just might unlock your dog. Friendly dogs, like my dog, Henry, are fun and easy dogs. If you have a dog, like my childhood dog, Tag, who’s not so friendly, it takes a bit more work. But it’s definitely worth … Read more

Your dog’s bark has a very specific meaning. Your job is to understand it. Sounds like a translator is needed, right? Maybe not. Is your dog barking? Is this one of the rare quiet moments? Are you wondering what he’s trying to say with all the barking? Would you like to know what your dog’s … Read more

Have you ever yelled at your dog and immediately regretted it? You’re not alone. Maybe you walked through the door after a long day and found your new shoes shredded across the floor. Maybe your dog was barking, jumping, or doing something else that pushed you past your limit. For a moment, you lost your … Read more

Most dog owner mistakes don’t look like mistakes at first. Instead, they look like love, excitement, or “we’ll figure it out later.” But small missteps early on can turn into expensive, stressful, and sometimes heartbreaking problems down the road. Thankfully, the good news is that most of these common dog owner mistakes are completely fixable … Read more

Do you know that creating a dog budget is very important? It tells you what your dog costs and where you are spending your money on your dog. It also allows you to easily see where you can cut your dog costs when you need to tighten your budget. Additionally, and equally important, creating a … Read more