Paws & Relax

19/05/2024

https://youtu.be/F1GO5oJOgP8?si=l7P9jU076vNsOnKh

Bonding and exercising with your dog can take many forms...

Grandma Tillie's "signature song" to play on the accordion is "The Butterbean Song"...she didn't sing this time but we added the words to the ticker so you c...

30/01/2024

My sister sent me this lovely quote by Jack Kornfield. By his reckoning, I am probably NOT a dog.😔 How about you?

30/12/2023

🎉🐾 Attention Mindful Dog Parents! 🐾🎉
🎊 Happy New Year, fellow paw-rents! As we bid adieu to the doggone year that was 2023 and prepare to leap into 2024, let's make sure our fur babies have a blast too (in a safe and anxiety-free way, of course)! 🐶✨
🎆 Pro Tips for a Pawsitively Pawesome New Year's Eve 🎆:
Faux Paw-dazzle: Keep those sparklers and fireworks away from our furry friends. Your pup might have dreams of being a firework, but let's leave the dazzling displays to the pros.
Noise-Canceling PupPhones: Provide your dog with some soothing tunes or white noise to drown out the New Year's Eve cacophony. Mozart, Beethoven, or maybe even a little dog-friendly reggae—whatever floats their squeaky toys!
Puparazzi-Proof Party Zone: Designate a cozy, quiet space where your pup can retreat if the celebration gets too ruff. Bonus points for adding some plush toys, a soft blanket, and maybe a portrait of their favorite mailman.
Mocktail Munchies: While you're sipping on your bubbly, treat your fur baby to some "pawsecco" or a special dog-friendly treat. Let them indulge in style!
Fur-responsible Parenting: Keep an eye out for any rogue confetti, balloons, or noisemakers. Our pups are curious, and nothing says "Happy New Year" like a dog with confetti stuck to their nose.
Remember, our fur babies rely on us to make their world a safe and happy place. Let's kick off the new year with wagging tails, belly rubs, and an abundance of slobbery kisses! 🐾💕
May your 2024 be filled with pawsitivity, laughter, and endless tail wags! 🎉🐶

23/12/2023

Happy Howlidays to all you pawsitively wonderful dog parents out there!
May your festive season be filled with tail-wagging joy, mindful belly rubs, and treats that are as guilt-free as a squirrel-free backyard.
May your walks be filled with mindful sniffing, and may your four-legged friends master the art of 'downward dog' during those cozy holiday nap sessions.
Wishing you a season full of laughter, love, and the perfect balance of fetch and chill.
Cheers to a pawsome holiday season, where the only thing that's 'ruff' is deciding which holiday sweater looks best on your furry friend! 🐾🎄✨

14/11/2023

Yes, its that time of year if you can believe it.

11/11/2023

"If we practice mindfulness, we will know how to look deeply into the nature of war and, with our insight, wake people up so that together we can avoid repeating the same horrors again and again.” Thich Nhat Hanh

10/11/2023

🐾🌟 Honoring the Pawsome Heroes of World War I 🌟🐾
🌍🤝 During World War I, our four-legged friends weren't just companions; they were true heroes on the front lines! 🐕💪 Here's a glimpse into the roles dogs played during this historic time:
📜 Messenger Dogs: Trained to carry crucial messages, ensuring communication even in the toughest situations.
🚨 Sentry Dogs: Guarding our soldiers with their keen senses, these heroes detected approaching enemies and kept our trenches safe.
🚑 Casualty and Search/Rescue Dogs: Locating and comforting wounded soldiers, or finding those missing in action - these dogs were saviors on the battlefield.
🎒 Pack Dogs: Carrying supplies, ammo, and medical gear, lightening the load for our brave soldiers.
🐭 Rat Control: These canines helped keep the trenches clear of disease-carrying rats, contributing to a healthier environment.
👃🔍 Gas Detection Dogs: Trained to detect the presence of gas attacks, giving soldiers (and dogs!) crucial time to don their masks.
🐾🤗 Let's salute the loyalty, intelligence, and adaptability of our furry comrades who made a paw-sitive impact during WWI. Share your appreciation for these unsung heroes! ❤️🐾

07/11/2023

01/11/2023

Today, I'm reflecting on the incredible motivation and determination our beloved dogs inspire in us to chase after our dreams. 🐶💫
🏃‍♀️ Relentless Pursuit: Have you ever watched a dog chase a ball, utterly focused, undeterred by obstacles? They teach us that when we set our sights on something we're passionate about, we should pursue it with unwavering determination and never give up.
🚀 Embracing the Journey: Dogs are all about the thrill of the chase, finding joy in the pursuit itself. They show us that the journey towards our dreams is just as important as the destination. Let's savor every step, every challenge, and every triumph along the way.
🌟 Fearless Dreamers: Dogs don't second-guess themselves or worry about what others think. They chase after what they want with pure heart and courage. They remind us to be bold in our aspirations, to trust in our abilities, and to believe in our own potential.
🐾 Our Furry Dream Navigators: Our dogs are living, breathing reminders that dreams are meant to be pursued with passion and purpose. They inspire us to break free from self-imposed limitations and to go after what sets our hearts on fire.

So here's to our fearless, four-legged motivators, showing us that dreams are meant to be chased and that every step forward counts. Let's pursue our passions with the same fervor and joy that they bring to each and every day! 🌟🐾

30/10/2023

🎃🎃🎃Halloween can be a fabulous and festive time for children and their families. But for an already nervous or anxious dog, Halloween can truly become a nightmare horror show. Aside from the stress of noisy strangers in costumes continually knocking on the door, there are many other potential dangers lurking on October 31st. The good news is that all of them can be prevented or eased. Here's how you can keep your dog safe:
🎃 Keep the trick-or-treat bowl well away from your dog to avoid choking on wrappers, chocolate/xylitol poisoning.
🎃 Don't leave electrical cords or lit pumpkins unattended around your pets.
🎃 Take care with pet costumes and try them on before Halloween. Wearing a costume can cause stress for some dogs so don't make your dog wear one unless you know they will be comfortable and stress-free.
🎃 Keep your dog indoors away from tricksters and easily identifiable if they accidentally get out.
🎃 If your dog is okay with joining you for trick-or-treating, keep them on a leash and attended at all times.
🎃 Take them for a long walk earlier in the day. A tired dog is usually calmer and less reactive.
With a bit of planning and preparation, Halloween can be a fun time for the entire family. Wishing you and your fur buddy a stress-free, trick-free Halloween with all the best treats!

28/10/2023

Today, I'm reflecting on the heartwarming lesson our beloved dogs teach us about the power of presence and the joy of connection. 🐶💞
🧘‍♀️ The Present Moment: Have you ever noticed how, when we return home, our dogs rush to greet us with uncontainable excitement? It's as if they're saying, "You're here! Right now!" They remind us to be fully present in our interactions, to cherish the moments we share with our loved ones.
🏃‍♂️ Embracing Joy: The sheer exuberance with which dogs greet their loved ones is infectious. It's a beautiful reminder that every interaction, no matter how brief, can be infused with joy and love. Let's approach our own connections with the same open-hearted enthusiasm.
🐾 Unconditional Love: Dogs don't hold grudges or keep score. They greet each encounter with pure love and acceptance. They show us the power of forgiveness, of letting go of past grievances, and welcoming each moment with a clean slate.
💞 Our Furry Ambassadors of Love: Our dogs are living, breathing examples of the profound impact of love and presence. They encourage us to cherish the people in our lives, to express our affection freely, and to relish the beauty of human connection.

So here's to our loyal and loving canine companions, teaching us the art of mindful greetings and the beauty of being fully present in our interactions. Let's greet each day and each person in our lives with open hearts and boundless love! 🌟🐾

26/10/2023

Today, I'm celebrating the incredible ways our furry companions inspire us to discover and unleash our unique talents. 🐶💡
🔍 Unwavering Curiosity: Have you ever watched a dog explore a new environment, sniffing out every nook and cranny? Their curiosity is boundless! They teach us to approach life with an open mind, to explore new avenues, and to be fearless in seeking out our passions.
👂 Listening to Instincts: Dogs have an uncanny ability to pick up on cues and follow their instincts. Whether it's a hidden treat or an approaching friend, they trust their intuition. They encourage us to trust ourselves, to listen to that inner voice guiding us towards our true talents.
🎨 Every Dog has its Day: Just like humans, each dog has its unique set of talents. From agility to tracking to therapy work, they excel in their own special ways. They remind us that our talents are like fingerprints - one of a kind and meant to be celebrated.
🌟 Our Furry Mentors: Our dogs are living proof that we all possess special gifts waiting to be discovered and nurtured. They inspire us to tap into our potential, to embrace what makes us unique, and to boldly pursue our passions.

So here's to our four-legged life coaches, encouraging us to unleash our talents with the same enthusiasm and joy they bring to every day. Let's take a page from their playbook and embark on our own journeys of self-discovery and growth! 🌟🐾

24/10/2023

🤝The Power of Openness: During a recent visit to a NYC dog park, I marveled at how dogs approach new acquaintances. They don't carry past judgments or reservations. Instead, they greet each new encounter with a heart full of openness and curiosity. They show us that embracing others without preconceived notions is the key to forming genuine connections.

22/10/2023

Let's celebrate National Make a Dog's Day!
October 22nd is a special day that's close to every dog lover's heart - National Make a Dog's Day! 🐶💖
It's a beautiful reminder to cherish and celebrate our furry companions, and to extend our love to those pups who may not have found their forever homes yet.
🤗 Ways to Make a Dog's Day:
1. Adopt, Don't Shop: Consider adopting a rescue dog or supporting a local animal shelter. You might just find your new best friend!
2. Quality Time: Spend some extra special time with your pup today - an extra walk, a longer playtime, or just some extra snuggles.
3. Treats and Toys: Spoil them a little extra today with their favorite treats and toys. It's a small gesture that brings them immense joy.
4. Spread the Love: If you can, consider donating to local animal shelters or rescue organizations. Your generosity can make a world of difference to dogs in need.
5.Advocate for Canine Welfare: Raise awareness about responsible pet ownership, and the importance of adopting, spaying, and neutering.

Remember, it's not just about today. Every day is an opportunity to show love and appreciation for our four-legged family members. Let's make every day a dog's day! 🌟🐾

20/10/2023

How do you introduce yourself? 🐶 Do you talk about your dogs before you mention your partner or children? 🐶 Perfectly normal!😊

16/10/2023

🐾🌟 The Great Mindfulness Showdown: Dog Edition vs Cat Edition 🌟🐾
Hey there, pet enthusiasts! 🐶🐱
Since today is Global Cat Day, have you ever wondered about the fine art of mindfulness, as demonstrated by our beloved furry friends? Let's compare:
🧘‍♂️ Dog Mindfulness:
"Live in the moment, they say! Dogs are the true masters of mindfulness. They revel in the simple pleasures, like belly rubs, treats, and a game of fetch. Their mantra? 'Here. Now. Treat, please!' 🐾"
🐶 Cat Mindfulness:
"Cats have a different approach. They've elevated the art of 'zen lounging' to a whole new level. Their mantra? 'Nap, perch, repeat.' They find inner peace in the most unexpected places... like on your keyboard or in the laundry pile! 🐱"
🌿 Meditation Styles:
"Dogs meditate with you, sitting right by your side, their tails occasionally thumping in approval. Cats, on the other hand, meditate on a higher plane of existence, often seeking enlightenment in empty boxes or sunbeams. 🌞📦"
🎵 Soundscapes of Serenity:
"Dogs compose symphonies of joy with their barks and tail wags. Cats prefer the subtle purr, a gentle hum that signals their contentment. It's the soundtrack of serenity... until the vacuum cleaner makes an appearance! 🎶🌀"

Remember, whether you're a 'zen dog person' or a 'chill cat enthusiast,' our furry friends have their unique ways of teaching us about the beauty of mindfulness. So, which mindfulness school are you attending today? 🤔 Share your furry thoughts below! 🐕🐈‍⬛

14/10/2023

Today, I'm celebrating the incredible life lesson that our furry companions teach us about embracing change and learning, regardless of our age. 🐶📚
🐶 Dogs have an uncanny ability to adapt and thrive, regardless of their age. Whether it's mastering a new trick or navigating life's changes, they demonstrate that it's never too late to start something new. Let's take a page from their book and approach our own growth with the same boundless spirit.
🌟 Our dogs are the ultimate mentors in resilience, perseverance, and the joy of learning. They encourage us to step out of our comfort zones and discover new passions, no matter where we are in life's journey.
So here's to our four-legged professors, reminding us that age is just a number, and every day is an opportunity to learn something new. Let's embrace change, cultivate curiosity, and keep our hearts open to the wonders that life has to offer! 🌟🐾

10/10/2023

Today, I'm reflecting on the profound lessons our canine companions teach us about mindfulness and seizing opportunities. 🐶💡
🧘‍♀️ Mindfulness: Have you ever watched a dog explore a new environment? They're fully immersed, savoring every scent, every texture. They teach us to be present, to appreciate the world around us with all our senses. Let's take a cue from them and be more aware of the beauty that surrounds us every day.
🐾 Sniffing Out Opportunities: Dogs are masters at finding hidden treasures, whether it's a hidden toy, a well-hidden treat, or simply a new path to explore. They remind us to be open-minded, to seek out opportunities that might be right under our noses. Sometimes, the most amazing discoveries are just waiting for us to notice them.
🌟 Our Canine Mentors: Our dogs show us the importance of curiosity, of not being afraid to dig a little deeper, both literally and metaphorically. They inspire us to trust our instincts and follow our noses towards new adventures and experiences.
So here's to our furry life-coaches, who show us the way to a more mindful life that's full of wonder and opportunities for joy. Let's embrace their wisdom and face each day with open hearts and keen senses. 🐾❤️

08/10/2023

🌍🐾 Honoring Indigenous Wisdom: The Sacred Bond Between People and Their Canine Companions 🐾🌍
Today, I want to shine a light on the profound connection between Indigenous peoples and their cherished canine companions. 🌿🐶
For countless generations, Indigenous communities around the world have shared a deep, reciprocal relationship with dogs. These faithful companions have played integral roles in their daily lives, serving as hunting partners, guardians, and sources of warmth and companionship.
🏞️ Harmony with Nature: Indigenous cultures have always understood the importance of living in harmony with nature, and dogs have been valued members of this natural symbiosis. They assist in hunting, help protect villages, and even become cherished members of the family, offering unwavering loyalty and companionship.
🌟 Cultural Significance: In many Indigenous cultures, dogs hold spiritual significance, symbolizing qualities like loyalty, bravery, and community unity. They often appear in folklore, stories, and ceremonies, showcasing the deep respect and admiration for these loyal creatures.
🌍 Preservation of Traditions: Through generations, the knowledge and wisdom of caring for dogs has been passed down, contributing to the preservation of Indigenous traditions and the sustainability of their way of life.

Today, let's take a moment to honor and learn from the profound relationship between Indigenous peoples and their four-legged friends. May we all be inspired to foster a deeper connection with nature and recognize the invaluable wisdom that has been handed down through generations. 🌿🐾

06/10/2023

Today, I wanted to share a something that's been close to my heart - the incredible lessons our four-legged companions teach us about mindfulness and happiness. 🐶💖
😊 Happiness: Have you ever seen a dog's tail wagging so fast it practically becomes a blur? It's a beautiful reminder that happiness can be found in the simplest of things - a kind word, a warm hug, or even just a stroll in the park with our furry companions. Let's cherish those mindful moments and spread joy wherever we go. 🌞🧡🌞
🧘‍♂️ Mindfulness: Dogs have an incredible ability to live in the present moment. They don't dwell on the past or worry about the future. They're fully engaged in whatever they're doing, whether it's chasing a ball, exploring a new trail, or simply enjoying a belly rub. Let's take a page from their book and practice being present in our own lives. It's a powerful way to find peace and gratitude in each moment.

04/10/2023

Our dogs are like mindfulness gurus in fur coats! 🐶 They have so much to teach us about joy and happiness! 😊 More about this in my next post...

02/10/2023

Being mindful means living in the present moment and being intentional. A resilient person is one who is able to bounce back from adverse events in life or recover quickly from difficulties. Resilience also refers to the ability to thrive after adversity.
Resilience and mindfulness often go hand in hand. Researchers have found that mindfulness-based practices can increase our resilience, something our dogs knew all along!

30/09/2023

Dogs offer unconditional love and acceptance, teaching us to embrace ourselves and others without judgment.

29/09/2023

Dogs are excellent at being couch potatoes. They'll teach you that sometimes the most mindful thing you can do is absolutely nothing.

28/09/2023

There's a big difference between the loving gazes between a pooch and their pet parents and a dog that’s being stared down by a stranger. If you meet a new dog, try to avoid eye contact and staring at them while they're getting to know you. Some dogs will consider extended eye contact from a stranger to be a challenge, which will confuse them if the rest of your demeanor is friendly. A confused and stressed dog is more likely to act inappropriately.

26/09/2023

September can be a busy and stressful time for many of us. Catching up at work after the holidays, getting the kids back to school, and adjusting to changes in the weather can take a toll on our mental and physical health. Adult coloring books can help us to relax and slow down.
Carving out some time to color is a great way to relieve stress in a healthy way. When you color, your brain relaxes and your whole body calms down. In addition to improving sleep and fatigue, it can also reduce anxiety, depression, and improve heart rate and respiration.
The act of coloring can also help you become more mindful. Staying present and focused is what mindfulness is all about.
Because you are concentrating on color choice and staying within the lines, you are only thinking about the moment at hand. This allows your mind to focus on your present movements, sensations, and emotions.
Try to be nonjudgmental as you color without expecting anything - just being in the moment. When your mind wanders, which is normal, gently bring it back to what you are experiencing right now.
As you color, you are using parts of your brain that are involved in enhancing your focus and concentration. As a result, you are able to more easily disengage from stressful thoughts. So get coloring!
Pick up your copy of the Mindful Dogs Calming Coloring Book with Free Mediation Music Download today! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BX58KC

24/09/2023

Interacting with dogs has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Their presence alone can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes calmness and relaxation. So if you're feeling stressed, take a deep breath and pet your dog!