Gayle Irwin's Blog, page 10

"A New Leash on Love" - Book Review

Books are an important avenue for learning and relaxing. Now and then, I’m going to blog about a book that has impacted me in some way and features animals as characters or are the principle focus of the book. Since yesterday was National Dog Day, I’m starting off with an entertaining contemporary romance called “A New Leash on Love."
 
Combining romance and animal rescue is something a person who enjoys reading doesn’t come across often, and since I’m stepping into that genre with the release of my first novel, I was intrigued to come across “A New Leash on Love.”

The book is written by Eliza Boyd, who has created and published several clean, contemporary romance books. “A New Leash on Love” is the first installment of her Animal Sanctuary Romance series. The story takes place in True Love, Arizona, where we meet Hannah Lockhart, who has come to the small town to help her cousin establish an animal sanctuary. Hannah promises to stay a few weeks and though she loves animals, she can’t wait to return to her big city life. Enter Luke Steiner, a man once burned by love so badly he lost his business. Now re-established in True Love, he tells himself, “Never again.” His eatery and his dog are his focus - until he volunteers at the animal sanctuary and works alongside Hannah. The undercurrent of the story is a wrong number text message.

The author writes a fun, oftentimes humorous, clean romance story with serious undertones of the determination - and need - for animal rescue. I enjoyed the tension and flirtation between Hannah and Luke, especially since the two characters don’t realize they are texting each other after a mix-up in a phone number given to Hannah by a member of the community. The two primary characters, when they meet in person, get off to a rocky start due to Luke’s concern for his dog’s health (which Hannah doesn’t know about at the time). Luke’s inner turmoil about his dog, Ralph, speaks volumes to me as a pet lover and pet parent; those of us who live with animals know the twisting of our hearts when our dogs, cats, and other critters are ill and we’re seeking answers to the issues. Reading this aspect of Luke’s life helps make him a likeable character, even with his other flaws (after all, no person is perfect).

That’s the other aspect of this book that I like: the characters are relatable. Hannah is in search of herself, even if she doesn’t realize that; many of us have been at that point in our lives once or twice. Her cousin wants to rescue animals and provide a sanctuary for them - who wouldn’t love a person with such compassion and kindness? And the people of True Love are caring and helpful to their neighbors - our “real world” needs more people like that. And, of course, as Luke and Hannah come to realize the text message brought them together and subsequent texts helped them to really get to know one another, the “real” Hannah and Luke, there’s a Happily Ever After, which we who read romance always want to see take place.

Boyd’s writing style is witty and entertaining. The story flows and the characters are enjoyable, including the animals she introduces us to, such as a group of goats that come to the sanctuary. Luke’s dog, Ralph, develops a friendship with a cow that is sweet and fun to read, weaving a subtle reminder that we don’t all have to be the same to enjoy each other’s company.

“A New Leash on Love” released earlier this summer. If you’re looking for a fun, clean romantic read with undertones on the importance of animal rescue and the joy of animal companionship, I encourage you to get a copy of this book. Or, if you’re simply looking for a fun read with some flirty yet clean romance and delightful animals as secondary characters, this could be the book for you. “A New Leash on Love” is available in print or via Kindle through Amazon.

Her next creation in this new field of pet rescue romance is “No Kidding in Love,” a story which again takes place in True Love, Arizona (Boyd has another series about this fictional community). “No Kidding…” is a brand-new release, available August 29 -  I pre-ordered the book, and I look forward to reading the story. With a goat on the cover, I can tell this will be another fun read!

What book(s) have you read recently that’s animal-related? Why would you recommend it/them? Watch for more book reviews on my blog later in the year.

Celebrate National Dog Day With Your Furry Friend

Monday, August 26, 2019 is National Dog Day in the United States. This special day celebrates all things dog, the various breeds, the family pet, and the dogs that work and save lives. Founded in 2004 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate Colleen Paige, this special day is a way to educate people on the importance of dogs in our lives and the on the joy of dog
(pet) adoption.
​
There are many ways to celebrate National Dog Day. How about going to the local pet supply store and buying a new toy or two? Maybe buy your pup a new sweater or blanket to keep him/her warm during the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Take your dog to the nearest dog park for a run off-leash. Take a walk in a new area of town or even on a day trip in the car. Share photos of your dog on social media. Can you add another furry friend to your family? Adopt a dog! You can also volunteer at your local rescue or animal shelter.

National Dog Day also promotes the joy of sharing life with a dog, and therefore, promotes dog adoption. Several national organizations partner with Ms. Paige and National Dog Day, including Best Friends Animal Society in Utah and the Helen Woodward Animal Center.

Take time during these next several days to celebrate dogs, including your own. Spend extra time with your pup and shower him/her with great affection, including the gift of your time. Take time to encourage
 and educate others about the joy of sharing life with a dog and encourage adoption. Dogs do so much for us; they are loyal and loving. Let’s return that devotion and love not only during National Dog Day, but each and 
every day.

If you’re more of a cat person, don’t worry - National Cat Day comes on October 29, 2019!

12 Side Gigs That Are Perfect for Pet Lovers

I’m always excited to welcome guest bloggers to my site who have relevant, interesting content to share. This week, I’m pleased to host Zachary Painter from SiegeMedia as he shares how people can earn extra money or even become small business owners working with animals. Whether you are a student preparing for college or university or a mom whose kids are getting ready to go back to school, a part-time (even full-time) pet business may be just for you! I appreciate Zachary introducing us to the business side of pets!
 
​
Guest Post By Zachary Painter
Content Marketing Specialist
siegemedia
.com 

If you have a burning passion for animals, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a desire to make some extra money, then you should seriously consider starting 
your very own pet side hustle!
 
Currently, 68% of American households own a pet, so there’s no shortage of needs out there for pet enthusiasts and experts. From dog walking to pet blogging, there are jobs for every type of professional.
 
So, what exactly do you need to do to get started? Well, there’s a few things. We’ve listed them in no particular order below:Decide if you want to work with cats, dogs, or bothDetermine what type of pet-related business you want to start
Research how much experience, training, or formal education you needConsider how much time you’re willing to put into it. 
Other factors worth considering are startup costs, competition, and need in your area. To make the process a little easier, Wikibuy has created an infographic that discusses 12 pet side businesses, what you need to get started, and more. Check out the information below or click this link to view the infographic:  https://wikibuy.com/blog/pet-businesses-2d172dc10ba9
 
 
So, if you love animals and want to make some extra money, consider establishing a pet business, not only to spend time with pets, but to serve people who have pets. Let us know if you’ve operated a pet business in the past or hope to in the future and what type of business that was/is. Leave us a comment!

5 Water Sports You and Your Dog Can Enjoy Together

With summer
in full swing and temperatures at record-setting levels in many areas, cooling off with a dip in the pool or an outing to a lake or an ocean can be what many people, and their dogs, want to do. In addition to
boating, fishing, and surfing, there are many water activities a person can enjoy with their dog. Below are five ideas:

Swimming:
 Whether at your own pool, a nearby lake, or a trek to the ocean, swimming is an activity you and your pup can enjoy together. However, not all dogs are natural swimmers, such as the pug, the bulldog, the shih
tzu
, and the boxer. Therefore, keep them away from bodies of water where they may drown. You can also teach some dogs how to swim. No matter what type of dog you have, make sure they have a life jacket when around bodies of water.Canoeing and Kayaking: If you enjoy lapping around the lake in a canoe or kayak, your canine companion may enjoy outings with you. A quiet sunrise or sunset exploration in the mountains or forest can be just the soothing relaxation you both need. Such craft can capsize, therefore, make sure you and your buddy are wearing life jackets.Paddle boarding: Stand up paddle boarding has become a popular water activity, and sometimes people who enjoy this sport bring their furry friends along for the ride. Whether traversing a lake, a river, or an ocean, the enjoyment of paddle boarding can be shared
 with your canine companion. However, experts highly recommend
you accustom your dog to the board before ever taking him/her out on the water. Click this link for a guide to training your dog to go paddle boarding with you: https://www.isupworld.com/sup-with-your-dog/.Retrieving: Many breeds, such as Labradors and spaniels, have an instinct to retrieve… and some dogs simply 
love the game of fetch. Throwing balls and other toys into the water and having your four-legged buddy bring that object back is a fun game for many dogs… but it may wear out your throwing arm quickly!Dock Diving: Also known as Diving Dogs, this is an actual sport in the dog competition world. Whether you and pup compete or if your dog just enjoys the water and fetching a toy, this activity might be the exercise you and your furry friend share this summer.  
There are many other water-related activities you and your dog can enjoy together, such as fishing, boating, surfing, and strolling along the beach or riverbank. No matter what you and your pup do to cool off around water this summer, one thing to keep in mind is the harmful, potentially fatal, blue green

algae
. Hot weather produces toxins in the algae and causes major “blooms;" 
skin irritation occurs on both people and pets, and dogs that lick the algae can get the toxins into their bodies and cause major illness, even death. Therefore, BEWARE!



 
Mosquitoes, ticks, and sunburn are also things for which to watch when spending time on the water.
 
Even with such hazards, you and your pup can enjoy water activities together. Be safe, be cautious, and have fun on the water during these last weeks of the summer season
!

3 Ways to Help Your Dog Feel Comfortable in the Car

Summer often means travel. Earlier this summer I took a trip to my home state of Iowa, with treks through other states in the Midwest as well; my Shih Tzu, Jeremiah, made the road trip with me. He's an exceptional little traveler. However, not all pets are. I'm pleased to host Sarah Archer this week with thoughts on helping your pet feel comfortable in the car, and a link to a guidebook for more ideas.

Guest Post by Sarah Archer
 
Ah, the open road with just you and your dog. Seems like a dream. But if you are a pet owner with a dog that doesn’t much like the car, it can be a difficult ride. While some dogs love to stick their heads out of car windows, others can get skittish, whine incessantly or be violently ill.
 
If your dog has trouble getting used to the car there are a few things you can do to try to make it easier for them.
 Crate in the car: if you can fit an appropriate sized crate in the car for your dog, it may give an anxious dog some comfort.Treat them: If your dog has trouble even at the very idea of the car, try to get them slowly accustomed to the idea that the car is a positive place. Tempt them in with a favorite treat and then let them out again a short time later (without going anywhere). Try it a few times and then step it up by turning on the engine when they are inside the car. Then you can start taking short trips to see how your dog reacts.Take them somewhere nice: Chances are if your dog is a wreck in the car you haven’t tried to take them anywhere except the vet or the groomer. Try getting your dog to associate the car with happier memories by driving them to a park.
Keeping your dog comfortable in your car makes pet ownership so much easier. So does helping your pet feel more comfortable at home. There are simple things you can do to make sure that your life with a dog is blissful and everything you ever dreamed. See the guide to helping your new dog feel comfortable at home from Your Best Digs and find more ideas on how to keep you and your dog comfortable together both at home and in the car. 
 
 
About Sarah Archer:
Sarah is a Content and PR manager at Your Best Digs. She’s passionate about evaluating everyday home products to help customers save time and money. When she’s not putting a product’s promise to the test, you’ll find her hiking a local trail or collecting stamps in her passport.
 

Beware of Algae Blooms That Can Poison Your Pets

With summer fully underway and hot temperatures throughout the United States, one thing many people like to do is cool off in the water. That may mean a swimming pool, or it may mean a lake, pond, or river. If you want to spend time in the natural setting, beware of harmful blue-green algae – this slimy material can make both people and pets very ill, and can even kill our beloved animals.
 
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), “Blue-green algae blooms can occur anytime during the summer, though they are normally associated with warm weather and low rainfall.” Although algae are naturally part of an ecosystem, “under certain conditions, algae populations can ‘bloom’ with dramatic growth.” And though most are not toxic, “there is no way to visually identify whether a particular bloom contains toxins that are harmful to people or animals.”
 
Such blooms occur when waterways have excessive nutrient levels, such as phosphorus. When going to a lake, reservoir, or other waterway and you notice high levels of algae, avoid going into the water and keep you pet away as well. According to the MPCA, “If your dog does go into water with heavy algae growth, hose it off right away, before it has a chance to lick itself clean. Animals become ill when they ingest the toxins, so preventing them from drinking affected water or licking toxins from their coat is key to preventing illness.”
 
The most common signs of poisoning from blue-green algae include:VomitingDiarrheaWeaknessBreathing difficultiesDisorientationSeizuresBlood in stools 
Without treatment, your dog could go into shock and a coma – and can die. If you believe your dog has ingested toxic algae, take your furry friend to the veterinarian immediately.
 
Enjoy the water and the outdoors this summer with your furry companion but beware of this potentially lethal aspect of nature. Find an informational guide here:
https://seagrant.sunysb.edu/btide/pdfs/HABsBrochure-0814.pdf
 
Learn more about blue-green algae and its affects on humans and animals here:
https://www.futurity.org/dogs-blue-green-algae-1798092-2/
 
https://www.petmd.com/news/health-science/dogs-and-toxic-algal-blooms-warning-pet-parents-36172

Vacationing With Your Dog: A Journey With Jeremiah

Earlier this summer I traveled more than 3,300 miles in the car with my shih tzu, Jeremiah. We packed a lot of activity into a 10-day excursion, including visiting people I’d not seen in four decades. Despite his start at a puppy mill, Jeremiah is an exceptional traveler! We’ve never put on as many miles on a companion vacation like this, so I wasn’t sure how he would handle the trip. Some dogs don’t do long-distance very well; others love the discovery and newness of such adventures – Jeremiah falls into that category, and I’m grateful.
 
During our vacation, we visited gravesites of ancestors I never knew as well as those of friends departed much too soon. We met with people I’d not seen since I left my home state of Iowa 41 years ago and those I’ve visited within the past decade. We drove past old homesites, visited camping and picnicking areas I experienced as a child, and met up with people I worked with more than 20 years ago. We spent time at national wildlife refuges and state parks, encountering various wildlife species, and visited historical sites that I’ve wanted to see for years but never had opportunity. All the while, my little four-footed companion either slept soundly in the back seat of the car or spent some time near me in the passenger seat. We stopped for lunches, potty breaks, and walks. Jeremiah was a hit with people wherever he went, helping us to socialize with other travelers as well as with the friends from my past. Even one motel manager struck up several conversations as Jeremiah and I walked in and out of the building.
 
Pets Help Us Meet New People
Pets bring out the best in many people. They help us connect with one another. Who can resist the cute faces, the sloppy smiles, and the wagging tails or soft purring of such creatures? Whether you travel with a dog or a cat (I encountered one couple doing just that!), animals draw humans to one another – it’s one of their special gifts.
 
This summer, whether you do a long vacation or a short staycation, consider taking your dog or cat with you. Our animals miss us when we leave them and many, as related above, enjoy the adventure of travel. If your pet is one of those, highly consider taking him/her along. Yes, it’s a bit of work, but you might just make new human connections. And certainly, your adoring pet will enjoy spending that adventurous time with you!
 
Plan Your Pet-Friendly Vacation
Here are a few things to plan regarding pet travel in the car:Food and water and dishes for feeding and watering.Toys.Medication.Leash with collar/harness and ID.Microchip (in case the collar/harness and ID slip off)Accommodations that are pet-friendly (many charge extra, anywhere from $10 to $100 per night or per stay – decide how much you’re willing to spend and search and book according to your budget).Activities that are pet-friendly, such as dog parks, campgrounds, picnic sites, outdoor concerts.Restaurants that are pet-friendly (or, like me, stay in accommodations with a kitchen or at least microwave/refrigerator – you can always have food delivered or bring take-out from a place).Know the weather ahead of time so you are more aware of when you can be outdoors with your pet – don’t leave your four-footed travel companion alone in the motel!)If needed, find a pet-sitter for a day or an evening in the area you’ll be visiting by going to Rover.com – that will give you opportunity to visit places, like museums, ballgames, and indoor concerts, that are not pet-friendly. 
Jeremiah and I had a great time on our summer vacation, and I look forward to many more travels with my buddy!
 
Additional Resources
Read another traveler’s thoughts on vacationing with her pet here:
https://petcentral.chewy.com/pet-parenting-travel-11-things-i-learned-driving-cross-country-with-my-pets/
 
For more travel tips for vacationing with your pet, visit these websites:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/travel-safety-tips
https://traveltips.usatoday.com/ways-travel-pet-cross-country-1615.html
https://yourdogadvisor.com/esssential-gear-for-road-tripping-with-dogs/

Smart Ways to Help Your Dog Enjoy Bath Time

​Guest Post by Brittany Wolf
 
I am pleased to welcome a guest blogger this week!  With the hotter weather, dirt, bugs, and such that summer brings, bathing our pets (especially dogs) may be of greater necessity. Brittany Wolf gives us advice regarding this activity, an adventure some dogs just don’t like. I hope you enjoy her post this week! 
 
If your four-legged kid hates to take a bath, it’s likely you don’t enjoy bathing him or her either. We understand how hard it is to convince your dog to take a bath, but it is possible! Yes, you read right. There are several ways which will make dog bathing time wonderful and enticing for both of you.
 
The irony is, your dog will love playing in the water while splashing all around the home, but when it comes to scrubbing and adding soap, he will find every nook and cranny in which to hide. Here are some tips that will help your dog enjoy his bathing time with little fear or discomfort.

Take A Walk With Your Dog Now, you must be thinking how taking him for a walk will work. Well, it might not wear your pup out enough to take a bath of his own free will, but a walk will heat the body enough entice him into water. If the day is hot, postpone the walk and bath until evening or plan ahead for a morning adventure – dogs can get heat exhaustion and heat stroke during hotter days, especially summer afternoons, just like people.

Make It Fun We understand how hard it is to stay positive when everything about dog bathing makes both of you cringe. But, your dog needs to bathe no matter how much you both dislike the idea – bathing and grooming keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Therefore, flip bath time into play time. While rubbing his body with the soap, play with him as well. This could be practical and helpful as your dog may love his pool or tub filled with toys. You can also provide treats to get a desired behavior out of your dog.

Bathing With Friends Even your little furry kid loves the idea of enjoying a bath with his companions. Always remember, dogs learn more from their own kind. If your dog loves to get social and is very extroverted, then give him a bath with another dog. Seeing his friend enjoy the bathing time will lure him to love the water and body soaps as well.

Check the Water Temperature It might also happen that your dog doesn't actually hate the bathing. It is the water which is causing a problem: too warm or too cold water, which can be a shock to your dog. Therefore, check the temperature and make it lukewarm before your dog jumps into the tub.

Bring A Positive Attitude If you are seeing your pet standing rigidly or shaking in fear when you turn on the water faucet, then you really need to fix this. You cannot let your kid hate some of the soothing experiences of life. Before you help your dog with its fear, bring positivity into yourself. Dogs sense feelings and vibes. If you are loving the process, he will also try his best to sync with you.
 
Conclusion
It is important for your dog to enjoy the bathing process. The ideas given can be effective to let your dog get comfortable with the sound of running water. Plus, when you take him to the bathtub, start with small steps. First, get just his feet wet, and then his legs. This will help alleviate any sudden panic attack. It is really okay if you aren’t completely successful the first time because the goal is to make your pooch comfortable with bathing and continue building upon success each time.
 
Bio:  
Brittany Wolf is a content writer & blogger at Red Dash Media. Apart from blogging frequently at work, she enjoys reading and writing poems in the comfortable space of her home. She also likes trekking with friends when in the mood to explore nature and then post pictures from her adventures on Instagram. 
 
For additional help regarding dogs and bathing, check out these helpful sites:

Veterinarian and pet writer Dr. Marty Becker provides additional hints to successful bath time here:
http://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/simple-tricks-to-make-dogs-bath-time-easier-faster-and-neater
 
Find a YouTube video from PetCo about bathing a dog here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORhh45Mv02I

4th of July Safety Tips for Pet parents

​America’s Independence Day is a few days away. Celebrations across the country include fireworks, food, and other fun. This is the time of year when animal shelters receive one the greatest number of stray pets due to the noise, unsecured gates, and doors left open – pets escape from the frenzy and commotion. Some are even stolen from yards or when they are picked up along streets and highways, never to return to their beloved people. Make sure your animals are safe this holiday!
 
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) provides a list of potential hazards as well as ideas on how to keep your furry friends safe this July 4th. Some of their thoughts include:
 Don’t leave alcoholic drinks unattended. Such beverages can poison pets.Keep matches and lighter fluid away from pets. Some animals try to ingest these items.Many pets are frightened of noises. Therefore, fireworks can cause them to bolt and become lost (or stolen). 
Read the ASPCA’s advice on pet safety during this time of year here:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/fourth-july-safety-tips
 
The American Kennel Club also provides some 4th of July safety tips visit their website here
https://www.akc.org/press-center/articles/july-4-tips/
 
Additionally, the American Veterinary Medical Association has compiled a list of pet safety tips for this time of year; visit their website here:
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/July-4-Safety.aspx
 
May you and your furry friends enjoy a safe and wonderful Fourth of July!

Summer Travel Guides & TIPS for an Enjoyable Vacation with Your Pet

I will soon be embarking upon a summer vacation – how about you?
 
Summer officially arrived in the Northern Hemisphere last Friday (June 21). Along with the longest day of the year comes warmer temperatures, sunshine mixed with rain, and travel, near and far. My dog Jeremiah often goes with me on extended weekends and longer vacations. Whenever he sees suitcases being packed, he knows something is up (so do the cats, but they are homebodies, so even though they like exploring the luggage, they never worry they will be going along for the ride!)
 
Jeremiah doesn’t worry either – he LOVES car rides! I’m blessed to have a dog who curls up in the back seat and sleeps during road trips. Jeremiah doesn’t mind travel, including long distance trips. Last year it was Oregon, to visit the Pacific Coast and to meet up with family for a reunion. This year it’s Iowa, meeting up with former classmates for a mini high school reunion (not everyone can be there at the same time, but the ones I will share time with, I’ll be grateful to see!)
 
Many of us plan summer trips, whether those are outdoor outings like camping or visiting large cities and staying in specialty hotels. Some of us want our pets to accompany us on those trips. There are several helpful websites for those traveling with pets, whether that travel takes you by car or in an RV. There are also websites for locating pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
 
Below you will find a few helpful sites if you’re traveling this summer with your pet:
 
A Resource Guide for Pet Safety While Riding in a Car:
http://www.buyautoinsurance.com/safety-guide-for-pets-in-your-car/
 
A Guide to RV’ing With Your Pet:
https://www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/rv-pet-travel/
 
A Resource Guide to Traveling by Air with Your Pet:
https://www.petswelcome.com/pet-air-travel
 
A Website About Chain Restaurants That Allow Dogs:
https://www.k9ofmine.com/dog-friendly-restaurant-chains/
 
A Website That Lists Pet-Friendly Accommodations, Restaurants, and Activities:
https://www.bringfido.com/
 
A Blog/Guide to Road-Tripping with Your Pet:
https://backroadramblers.com/road-tripping-with-your-dog-how-to-plan-the-best-vacation-ever/

Check out these resource guides and websites before you embark on your next excursion with your beloved furry companion. And remember to NOT leave your pet in the car during these hotter days!