It’s Zaturday – Wet Paint!

Posted on February 25, 2023 by Carol J. Post

It’s Zaturday, the day we (Ziggy and Zorro) take over Mommy’s blog!

Zorro here.

Our house has really been a busy place lately. Mommy decided to remodel another room. This time she tore up the living room. Fortunately, she had us stay downstairs while most of the work was going on, because it was really noisy. Ziggy and I don’t like noise, unless we’re the ones making it. Like when we run up and down the stairs when Mommy and Daddy are trying to sleep, and they say we sound like a herd of elephants. We’re not sure what elephants are. Maybe they’re like cats but bigger.

Anyhow, they finally let us come back upstairs when they were finishing the room. All while they were working, the house was a mess. Furniture was piled up in the dining room and the music room. But Ziggy and I still found a comfy place to sleep.

When Daddy finished painting the window sill, I thought it would be fun to get up there and walk around on it. When Mommy came back into the room a while later, this is what the floor looked like:

She didn’t know who did it, so first she checked Ziggy’s paws. No paint. Then she picked me up. Guess what she found. Yep, white paint on my paws. I couldn’t deny it when the evidence was right there.

Mommy scrubbed the paw prints off of the wood floor but wanted to leave them in the paint on the window sill. She said it’s like when parents have their kids put their hand prints in wet cement, and we’re sort of like her kids. Daddy didn’t think that was a good idea, but he hasn’t gotten around to sanding and repainting yet. I kind of hope he leaves my paw prints there.

Now the work is all done. We really like the new room. Ziggy and I have lots of fun chasing each other from one end to the other and sliding on the new wood floor. There’s even a fireplace. On cold days, Mommy and Daddy put a fire in there to keep us warm. Lately it’s been too warm for a fire, but we still like to hang out in there.

Well, I gotta go. It’s time to see what other trouble I can get into.

Plan a Memorable Home Wedding

Posted on October 21, 2022 by Carol J. Post

I love weddings! And as someone who really enjoys nature, I especially love outdoor weddings. The last three weddings I attended were outdoors—one in front of a waterfall, one at a lake and one in a grassy area with a backdrop of woods and the stone ruins of an old church. As a romance author, most of my stories end with a proposal, if not an actual wedding. On my blog today, I’ve got guest blogger John Dunbar offering great tips for planning a home wedding, whether indoors or out. Take it away, John!

Image by Kayla Renee via Pexels

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable, exciting days of your life. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most expensive. According to WeddingWire, the 2021 average wedding cost in the U.S. was $22,500. The venue is the highest cost, and many couples are seeking alternatives. Getting married at your home or that of a family member can save money, but that’s just the beginning. Here are some tips for a beautiful yet budget-friendly wedding.

Will Your House Work?

A wedding has many moving parts. You’ll want suitable spaces for:

The ceremony
Separate dressing areas for the bride and groom along with their attendants
A reception, including a staging area for caterers
Flowers and other wedding decor
Guest parking

Brides magazine notes that you’ll also want to have easily-accessible restrooms for your guests. If out-of-town family or friends plan to stay with you, they’ll need places to sleep.

If your home won’t accommodate all these needs, you may be able to make inexpensive renovations that will both provide a suitable wedding location and improve your property’s overall value. The money that you would have spent on renting a venue for a day can be a long-term investment in your home instead. Be sure to keep all receipts for your capital improvements.

How Can You Prepare Your House for a Wedding?

Every property is different, and the preparations you might make may not work for someone else. However, think about ways you can make these ideas apply to your home.

Your Backyard – Hire Pros for Larger Projects

Many couples plan outdoor weddings. With a little work, your backyard can be the perfect backdrop for your ceremony and/or reception. Think about adding some landscaping, plants that will be in bloom on your wedding date. Of course, for larger projects like tree work, it’s best to call in the pros. For example, removing a tree stump is a tough job that requires special equipment and expertise. Go online and search service directories to find contractors that are nearby, and check customer ratings and reviews to ensure the pros you contact and provide a written estimate are equipped to handle the project.

Also think about building a gazebo or pergola in a prime spot. You can use it as the spot to make your vows.

Your Home’s Interior

If you’re not happy with the way the inside of your house looks, what can you do to improve it? Fresh paint, new area rugs, updated window treatments, and updated lighting can make a world of difference.

Depending on your home’s layout and the number of rooms, choose the best options for guest quarters and dressing areas.

Parking

If your property doesn’t have much extra space for guest parking — especially if the ground is wet at the time of your ceremony — consider getting permission from a nearby school or church for your guests to park there, and arrange for a shuttle-type service to take them to your home. You can hire a limo company or enlist friends and family to provide the transportation.

Inclement Weather

Everyone wants their wedding day to be bright and beautiful, but Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. You’ll want to have alternatives for planned outdoor activities. Renting a large tent is one option.

What Are Some Ways to Make Your Wedding Even More Special?

Personalising your wedding adds to your special day and your memories. If you have friends or family who are pastors, floral designers, caterers, DJs, or singers invite them to participate. Most people are honoured to contribute their skills for special occasions.

A unique way to memorialise the event is by hiring a live wedding painter. Guests can watch as the artist creates your painting in its entirety during your wedding, and you’ll have a truly personal keepsake that will last you a lifetime.

Are You Inspired?

You don’t have to spend lots of money to rent a venue for your wedding. You can make your special day memorable by preparing your home to host the event, including small interior renovations and prepping the backyard if the event will be outdoors. Adding personal touches is the icing on the wedding cake.

* * * * * * *

Thank you, John, for all the great info. If you or someone you know is considering buying or selling a home, you will want to check out John’s website, Housing Secrets.

It’s Zaturday – Missing Daddy

Posted on October 9, 2022 by Carol J. Post

It’s Zaturday—the day we (Ziggy and Zorro) take over Mommy’s blog! Ziggy here.

Okay, I think Mommy really needs to rename this “It’s Zunday!” Because this is two times in a row that she’s been late posting. She sort of has an excuse, though. Last week, Mommy and Daddy left the house to go exercise and didn’t come home. (Fortunately, they fed us before they left.) Mommy finally got home late that night and Daddy still hasn’t come home. Mommy said he fell playing pickleball and broke his hip. We’re not quite sure what that means, but they’re not letting him come home. Zorro and I really miss him, so we’re hoping that, wherever he is, Mommy is going to break him out.

A long time ago, Mommy broke Zorro out, too. Before Mommy came, this is what Zorro looked like:

Then Mommy broke him out and brought him home. He looked really sad at that other place, but he’s really happy now. In fact, we’re both really happy. See?

We hope Daddy’s not too sad. It’s been more than a week since we’ve seen him, which seems like FOREVER! And Mommy has been gone from early in the morning till dinnertime. But Aunt Kim and Uncle Chris have taken good care of us. They feed us lunch and dinner too if Mommy isn’t home yet. Daddy says Uncle Chris is a good fill-in butler and Aunt Kim is a good fill-in ladies’ maid.

A long time ago, Mommy and Daddy watched a program called “Downton Abbey.” Zorro and I watched it with them. It was okay, but there weren’t any cats on there. Daddy said that show helped him understand how cats think about their humans. Now he says Mommy is Mrs. Patmore, because she makes our kitty food, and he’s Pappy the Butler. If we think about it that way, Mommy and Daddy are good servants, because they take really good care of us. They make sure we have yummy kitty food…

Fun places to climb…

A comfy bed…

And lots of love.

Whether Mommy and Daddy are our servants or not, we think we’re going to keep them.

Practical Strategies for Boosting Positivity and Inspiration During a Midlife Crisis

Posted on August 16, 2022 by Carol J. Post

Ryan Goodchild of A Pupper’s Love has been on here several times with tips on doggie care. He’s back again, this time to share strategies for boosting positivity and inspiration during a midlife crisis. Whether you’re in midlife or not, this article has lots of great tips we can all use, especially after two-plus years of covid. Take it away, Ryan!

Middle age sparks fear and dread in many people. Maybe you’re feeling unsatisfied with the trajectory of your life or like your best years are behind you. Perhaps you imagine yourself living the same day for the rest of your life with nothing of substance to fill your time. Or, maybe you’re dreading your mind and body gradually declining after going “over the hill.”

If you think you’re experiencing a midlife crisis, the first step is to recognize you’re not alone. Then, you must come up with activities and routines that inject a bit of positivity and inspiration into your life. Here are some simple strategies for doing just that!

Meet Some New People

Community is an essential aspect of human existence. Meeting new people who you enjoy can stir your soul and bring life a new level of excitement and discovery. Not to mention building new connections with people can spark creativity, boost your motivation, and inspire you. People need other people, so be intentional about finding a good community. Here are some places and ways you can meet new people:

Join a book club
Attend community events
Volunteer
Go to church
Join a sports league

Consider Therapy

If your emotions have run amuck and you’re having trouble self-regulating, seek support from a therapist. Today, online options for therapy provide easy and secure ways to access the help you need.

Without having to leave the comfort of your own home, you can meet with your pick of a variety of licensed therapists and unburden yourself of the things that overwhelm you the most. Many therapists offer a free consultation, so if you don’t click with the first therapist you meet with, you’re not out of money or obligated to return.

Improve Your Health

Poor health can cause a whole host of worry and pain. If your current habits and routines compromise your mental and physical health, build a plan to make improvements and begin today.

Start with small steps like drinking more water, visiting a general practitioner for physicals, taking supplements, and portioning your food. As you develop the small habits, start adding in new ones that require more dedication like regular exercise and changing your diet.

Learn Something New

One fear that often comes with getting older is a deteriorating mind. Many studies have shown that if you challenge your brain to learn something new and live as a perpetual student, your brain can remain young and engaged and make new neural connections.

You can pick up a new hobby, enroll in an online college course, learn a new sport or game, or pick up new books. Whatever you choose, just make sure that it challenges your mind and brings you joy.

Get a Side Gig Going

You can make almost anything into a business and earn some extra money. If you currently have a hobby you love that produces a good or service or are interested in starting one, then you’re off to a great start.

Many side gigs can be done from the comfort of your own home and require as much time as you’re wanting to put into it. The more engaged you are, the more energy it gives you and the more it redefines your sense of purpose.

A mid-life crisis is common for many people. Take what may feel like sour lemons and turn them into lemonade. If you feel uncomfortable or down in the dumps, this is an opportunity for you to find new inspiration and opportunities. The tips above will get you off to a wonderful start but keep looking out for other ways to improve yourself and your future.

* * * * *

Thank you, Ryan, for all the great info. For inspiring stories about man’s best friend, check out Ryan’s website, A Pupper’s Love.

It’s Zaturday – Ziglet the Piglet

Posted on July 31, 2022 by Carol J. Post

It’s Zaturday, the day we (Ziggy and Zorro) take over Mommy’s blog!

Zorro here. Okay, I guess it’s Zunday instead of Zaturday, because Mommy’s slow! She didn’t get this put up when she was supposed to.

Recently, Ziggy and I went to the doctor. Mommy had to find a new doctor for us since we live in North Carolina now. Our old one is in Florida.

I checked out good, but Ziggy is too fat! I’m not surprised. He gobbles his food down then stares at me while I eat, hoping I’ll leave some for him. Daddy calls him Ziglet the Piglet. Now instead of calling “Kitty, kitty, kitty” when it’s time to eat, Daddy hollers, “Sooie, sooie, sooie, pig-pig-pig,” and we both come running! Mommy says it’s a pig call. I don’t care how they call us, as long as they feed us.

Every time Daddy calls Ziggy fat, Mommy says he’s just fluffy, and Daddy reminds her that that’s not what the vet says. I agree with Daddy and the vet. I think he’s getting fat, especially when he pounces on me. He’s HEAVY! Even so, I don’t want Mommy to put Ziggy on a diet. Since we always eat together, that would mean they’d have to give me less, too. Instead, I’m helping Ziggy get more exercise by chasing him around the house and wrestling with him.

I’m glad I have Ziggy for a buddy, even if the vet says he’s fat. He helps me not to get too lonely. We hang out together in our catio…

and play with our toys together…

and take naps together…

…LOTS of naps. In fact, I think it’s time for another one!

Freelance Writing: How to Hone Your Craft and Build Your Client Base

Posted on April 2, 2022May 26, 2022 by Carol J. Post

Ryan Goodchild of A Pupper’s Love has been on here several times sharing tips on doggie care. Today he’s back with another great post, this time on making money doing freelance writing. Take it away, Ryan!

Photo by William Fortunato from Pexels

Do you routinely notice grammatical and spelling errors? Do you often think about how a particular paragraph would benefit from rearranging the sentences or start spilling your thoughts out on a word processor in random moments of inspiration?

You might be well-suited for a career in writing. And you don’t have to become a best-selling fiction author to build a fulfilling writing career. You can take many different paths—from blog writing to technical writing to promotional copy. If you’re interested in forging a livelihood as a freelance writer, consider these tips.

Get Better

No matter the writing career you choose to pursue, you will need to be on your A-game to build success. In other words, never stop improving your craft. Constantly look for ways to deepen your knowledge of various writing styles and practices, whether that means returning to school for a degree, finding a program that trains you in writing and editing, or finding a mentor who can help you navigate day-to-day challenges.

Also, read as much as you can. Read books and articles on topics that interest you, read works by authors who have a reputation for their masterful use of grammar, and try to read something unrelated to your work for at least a few minutes each day.

As with any other skill, writers learn best by example. Furthermore, make sure you write every day, whether that means writing pieces for your job or jotting thoughts down in your daily journal.

Explore Your Options

These days, there are many different types of careers to pursue in writing, and a lot of them can allow you to live comfortably on a salary. For example, you could become a speechwriter for a business executive, politician, or celebrity. You could become a screenwriter for film and television shows or try your hand as a technical writer for product or software manuals, user guides, or technical specifications.

If you have a strategic mind, you may enjoy a career as a communications director, which would mean that you oversee various forms of communications on behalf of a business or organization.

You could also write informational blogs and promotional copy for various companies as a freelance writer, or carve a niche in proposal writing, resume writing, or grant writing. If you love to edit, you might find proofreading a fulfilling role, and you could eventually work your way up to being an in-demand editor!

Start a Business (Officially)

Whatever type of writer you choose to become, you should consider starting your own freelance business and creating an entity. By applying for an employer registration number, the IRS would better track your payroll taxes and identify your business. Also, an EIN will make the process of filing your state and federal taxes much more straightforward, whether you do it every year or every quarter.

There are many steps to starting a business, and it can be difficult to track them all. Fortunately, a monthly planner template gives you a graphic representation of every task and deadline you need to meet. Benefits of an online calendar for planning include looping in other stakeholders and the ability to upload images.

Build Your Clientele

Having the necessary writing skills is one thing, but putting yourself out there and getting jobs is another. To begin building your client base, make sure you have a writing portfolio that stands out from the crowd. Your portfolio should showcase your best work, and if possible, make sure to include pieces from a wide range of industries and topics. You should also reach out to past clients about providing you with testimonials to put on your website.

Other tactics to gain customers include writing an effective elevator pitch and author bio. When it comes to finding jobs, utilize social media platforms and online job boards to connect with potential clients, and remember to maintain good relations with everyone you work for so that you can develop a solid reputation.

If you love writing, you could become the next best-selling novelist. But that is by no means your only option for a fulfilling writing career. Consider the information and advice above as you start laying the foundation for a lucrative writing career, and remember never to stop improving at your craft!

For inspirational and unforgettable romance novels, visit Carol J. Post!

* * * * *

Thank you, Ryan, for all the great info. (And thanks for the shout-out on my books!) For inspiring stories about man’s best friend, check out Ryan’s website, A Pupper’s Love.

It’s Zaturday – Lonely Kitties!

Posted on March 19, 2022 by Carol J. Post

It’s Zaturday, the day we (Ziggy and Zorro) take over Mommy’s blog!

Ziggy here. Zorro and I were sad kitties last week. Mommy and Daddy left us! They went to Florida and didn’t take us with them! They were gone a really long time—almost a week! We missed them, but Aunt Kim took really good care of us. We got to hang out with Grandma a whole bunch, too. We also had each other to snuggle with.

Zorro and I like going for car rides. When Daddy’s driving, we both get in Mommy’s lap. It’s a little crowded, because she usually has her computer there, too. When Mommy’s driving, she only lets one of us lie in her lap. Zorro always beats me to it. He curls up there and doesn’t move until Mommy stops for gas.

When Mommy and Daddy first got back, Zorro pouted for a whole day. Mommy couldn’t get him to purr no matter what she did. But he finally got over it and forgave them for leaving him. One thing that helped was that the day after they got back, Daddy went to the store and bought a bunch of meat. Then they made a batch of fresh cat food. Mommy and Daddy make really good kitty food. We like it better than the food that comes out of cans. Zorro even stands up for it.

We think we have good parents, even though they do sometimes leave us. But Mommy promised they wouldn’t leave us again until June. We’re not sure when June is, but we’re hoping its reeeeaally far away. Do you think if we try really hard, we can get them to cancel their trip?

It’s Zaturday – We’re back!

Posted on February 11, 2022 by Carol J. Post

It’s Zaturday, the day that we (Ziggy and Zorro) take over Mommy’s blog.

Zorro here. I know it’s been a really long time since Ziggy and I have been on here, but whew, have we been busy! Well, I guess it’s Mommy and Daddy who have been busy. First, something happened to Daddy. Mommy said he had shoulder surgery. Ziggy and I don’t know what that means, but he came home with this great big thing on his arm and had to wear it for a long time. Ziggy and I were scared of it at first, but we got used to it. Soon we were back to snuggling with him.

Cat in box Then we all moved from Florida to North Carolina. Ziggy and I like car rides, so we didn’t mind that at all. What was really fun, though, was when Mommy started unpacking. Every time she emptied a box, Ziggy and I got in! Boxes are the most fun thing in the world! Well, catnip toys are pretty fun, too.

Lately, though, Mommy and Daddy have been making lots of noise, and we don’t like that. Even Aunt Kim is getting involved. Mommy says they’re remodeling. While Mommy and Aunt Kim put a new floor in, Ziggy and I hung out on our catio.

For a while, there was white stuff all over the ground, and it was really cold. When I wanted to get warmed up, I just came in and curled up in Grandma’s lap. Grandma has a soft, warm lap, because she wears a thick, fuzzy robe.

Now the room where everybody was working is all finished. Ziggy and I are glad. We like to hang out in there and look out the front window…

…or play on the new floor.

Mommy says she’s not done with the remodeling, though. Next, she’s going to tear up the hall bathroom. That sounds like a noisy job, too, so Ziggy and I are hoping she’ll change her mind. Think we might be able to convince her to play with us instead?

How to Prevent Common Doggie Disasters at Home

Posted on February 5, 2022 by Carol J. Post

By guest blogger, Ryan Goodchild of A Pupper’s Love

Caring for a dog can be a wonderful experience for families, but sometimes, a few doggie disasters are to be expected. These can include your dog going potty inside the house or acting out when you’re not around. If your dog is misbehaving, it’s likely due to underlying behavioral issues that should be addressed. Fortunately, these types of doggie disasters can be prevented and treated so you can live a long and happy life with your pup. Here are some great ways to prevent common doggie disasters at home.

Preventing Your Dog From Going Potty in the House

If your dog is going potty inside the house, it may be a sign of an underlying anxiety issue. Separation anxiety is one of the most common causes of this type of accident and can often be treated with the help of a veterinary behaviorist. Your dog may also be anxious about outside conditions, such as noise. Noise phobias may be triggered due to frightening sounds from outside, such as honking from a car. This may cause your dog to only want to pee inside instead of outside.

This can be reversed by taking your dog to a quieter outdoor setting or playing some soothing music through a music player. Accidents can also be prevented by keeping a clean indoor environment. If a dog smells its past accidents, he or she might believe that the indoor environment is the right place to go potty. Overall, this type of issue must be treated with love and proper care. Scolding or yelling at your dog will only instill more fear and anxiety instead of treating the problem.

Preventing Your Dog from Acting Out

A dog acting out is a form of misbehaving and not listening to his or her owner’s commands. A dog may also act out in front of guests or strangers. Here are some ways to prevent your dog from misbehaving:

Play with your dog more often. Dogs who aren’t getting enough activity may become frustrated and act out, so make sure your pup is getting a lot of exercise. If you have a busy schedule, hire a dog walker to stop by once or twice a day to walk your dog while you’re out, or hire a pet sitter who can keep him company more regularly.
Create consistency in your dog’s routine. Dogs love consistency, especially with regard to their training. They also rely on their owners for maintaining a sense of order in their life. If a dog’s needs aren’t being met, they may lash out or cause a bit of chaos to get their owner’s attention.
Sometimes dogs act out due to stress. They can pick up on our emotions, and if you’re feeling anxious or troubled, your dog will reflect it. So take steps to create a more peaceful and positive environment in your home. Remember, reducing stress in the home isn’t just good for your pets; it’s good for you, too!
Don’t use negative reinforcement, but don’t always use positive reinforcement either. For example, if your dog begs or barks for your attention and you give in, you would be teaching your dog that acting out is the “right” way to get attention. Instead, reward your dog for good behavior, such as not jumping on guests.
Note when the bad behavior started. Have you moved recently? Have you been spending less time with your dog? Have you been lashing out at your dog due to stressors from life? Identifying the factors that triggered your dog to start misbehaving may provide context to applicable solutions, such as spending more time with your dog or creating a more consistent routine for them.

Protecting Your Dog

One disaster that can be truly tragic is if your dog gets into a rodenticide. First, know the signs — which could include lethargy, bleeding gums, or difficulty breathing — and if you spot them, contact your veterinarian immediately. Also, instead of using poison or traps, if you have a problem with pests, you can hire a professional to safely eradicate them.

It’s also crucial that your pup avoids choking hazards and electrical dangers. ZenBusiness recommends tying up any loose cords and keeping them out of reach. Also make sure to remove any rubber bands, staples, and paper clips off the floor.

Doggie disasters, such as bad behavior or going potty inside the house, may be triggered due to outside factors or underlying behavior problems. It’s important to identify these factors quickly so you can teach your dog proper behavior. If it’s difficult to treat your dog’s behavioral problems on your own, consider consulting a veterinarian or a behavioral specialist.

* * * * *

Thank you, Ryan, for all the great info. For inspiring stories about man’s best friend, check out Ryan’s website, A Pupper’s Love.

7 Ways You Can Keep Your Pets Healthy and Safe this Winter

Posted on December 14, 2021January 26, 2022 by Carol J. Post

By guest blogger, Ryan Goodchild of A Pupper’s Love

Now that the cold weather has arrived, you need to make sure your pet has the essentials to stay healthy and happy all season long. Not sure where to start? Then check out these top health and safety tips for taking care of your furkids.

Find Allergy Relief for Your Pets

Itchy pets may be suffering from allergies. Pet allergies are pretty common for cats and dogs, and can be the result of dust, pollen or even certain foods. All of the scratching can lead to hair loss and infections, so schedule a checkup for your pets if you suspect environmental or food allergies. You can also try switching your kitty to an allergen-free food to see if that helps with symptoms.

Address Your Pet’s Behavior Issues

Winter weather can mean more indoor gatherings with family and friends. If you plan on bringing your pets along you should make sure they have at least some basic manners. This can also be helpful if you want to sip your favorite fall lattes on local dog-friendly patios. If you need help with training your dog, consider reaching out to a local, qualified trainer for a consultation.

Be Aware of Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Colder weather can make your pet extra achy. Arthritis is another common health concern that tends to come in during colder seasons, and aches and pains can be particularly common for senior pets. Lifestyle changes can reduce pain and inflammation for your pet, including keeping your pet active and investing in quality beds.

Pain from inflammation, nausea and vomiting from cats with sensitive stomachs is another thing to look out for. In this case, switch your kitty over to food that is specially produced for such ailments. Ingredients in sensitive stomach cat food — such as prebiotics, highly digestible ingredients, and fatty acids like fish oil — are geared towards soothing cats’ digestive systems.

Make Sure Your Pets are Microchipped

It’s always a good idea to microchip your pet. If your pet gets away from you during a hike, a walk, or a holiday vacation, having a microchip will increase the chances of being reunited with you. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive procedure that can be priceless when it comes to protecting your furry family members.

Protect Your Pet’s Paws and Nose

You know how your lips and hands can get dry and chapped during the winter? Well, the same thing can happen to your pet’s paws and nose. If you notice dry skin or cracks on their skin, consider mixing up a protective balm. You can also add a layer of balm to help safeguard your dog’s paws against salt and other chemicals used to prevent ice on sidewalks.

Protect Your Pet From Holiday Hazards

Finally, before you enjoy any holiday celebrations with your pets, you should be aware of some of the most common holiday pet hazards. Human food may be the first thing that comes to mind, and keeping fatty meats, herbs and other risky treats away from your pets can be crucial for keeping them healthy. But holiday decor, including poinsettias, mistletoe and tinsel, can also present poisoning and choking hazards.

Ensuring a safe and healthy season for your pets is all about preparation and planning. So even if the temperatures are still hot and sticky in your area, start making appointments and stocking up on supplies as soon as possible. Then you can rest assured that your pets are healthy enough to enjoy all the fall fun ahead.

* * * * * * *

Thank you, Ryan, for all the great info. For inspiring stories about man’s best friend, check out Ryan’s website, A Pupper’s Love. For more pet safety tips How To Keep Pets Safe at Home by LA Homes offers advice for every room of the house.