Natural Flea & Tick Preventatives: What We’ve Tried & What Works

Natural Flea & Tick Preventatives: What We've Tried & What Works! Lolathepitty.com

We have not touched any flea and tick preventatives that contain chemicals since the beginning of the year. It was time to pay attention to what we were applying to our dogs and I regret not taking action sooner. After all, what we put on their skin is absorbed into their body and organ systems. I find it a little scary that tests on laboratory animals with active ingredients found in spot-on products resulted in thyroid cancer, liver and kidney toxicity, and convulsions.

So that meant buh-bye Frontline.

Not to mention, I was a little disappointed after we came back from a hike and pulled off 10 ticks between the two dogs. A week after applying Frontline. Ick.

So I began the search for a natural and safe solution to repel fleas and ticks from the pooches.

Natural Flea & Tick Preventatives: What We've Tried & What Works! Lolathepitty.com

I was overwhelmed at the options and also the reviews that I was reading. Some appeared to do nothing, some received fairly good reviews and other options such as essential oils were said to be just as dangerous as the chemical-filled repellents if not used properly.


 

1. Only Natural Pet Flea & Tick Tag: this tag attaches to the dog’s collar and uses holistic technology that repels fleas and ticks by using your pet’s own bio-energetic field. We have had this tag on Lola for about three months now and no ticks thus far. Our house backs up to a wooded area and we also go on hikes and walks throughout the neighborhood. It’s said to last for up to a year – making the initial ~$40-50 investment seem minimal. More info on the Flea & Tick Tag from Pet360.

2. GNC Flea & Tick Wipes: I could take or leave these. They were nice to just “wipe and go” but I actually ended up just using them on my own arms and legs. The wipes themselves were rather small, thin, and hard to wipe across the fur. It also didn’t seem to distribute much of the repellent on the dogs. I would’ve needed about five wipes to feel like I really protected Lola. So maybe I’ll just keep these for myself. If it came in a spray, this might be much easier to apply thoroughly. I’m just glad I bought these on clearance for $4.99.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: we have used apple cider vinegar for many uses with our dogs. And while we don’t really have a problem with fleas in Minnesota, I’d definitely use as a repellent if I lived elsewhere (crossing fingers this will be someday…). For a simple flea repellent spray, mix two parts ACV to one part water.  It’s believed that fleas cannot handle the odor or taste of the apple cider vinegar. Plus, it can even be used as a rinse if your dog already has fleas. Check out Kristen’s blog post on Well Minded about using apple cider vinegar as a repellent.

4. Natural Flea & Tick Spot On Treatment: we used this on Lola and Rio before we went to Colorado. My complaint about this product was that it is extremely oily. Like take Frontline and multiply by 10. It even discolored Rio’s fur between his shoulders until we bathed him. And then anytime we would go to pet him or Lola our hands would be full of the almond oil mixture because it managed to spread out into about an 8-inch circle. Other than that, it seemed to do the job for the week we were out there (no ticks). It eventually absorbed in  as well, although it did take several days. I’m not sure it would work for the full month that it’s claimed to – the smell seemed to almost disappear completely after a week or so and we usually bathe our dogs more than once a month. I probably wouldn’t purchase this product again.

5. Essential Oils: essential oils can be very helpful if used correctly. I’m finding out there is quite a bit of research involved and even contrasting information out there – so do your research, consult with a professional, and educate yourself before using on your dog.

Tick Spritz Recipe – source: Young Living

• 1 cup of Distilled water

• 2 Drops Geranium Essential Oil

• 2 Drops Palo Santo Essential Oil

• 1 Drop Myrrh Essential Oil

• 4 Drops Grapefruit Essential Oil

• 1 Drop Peppermint Essential Oil

• 1 Drop of Thieves Hand Soap or Castile Soap (emollient)

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and shake. Spritz on as needed. You can also use this recipe on yourself and horses.

Another option is to place a drop or two of oils on their collar or in a collar diffuser to deter insects and ticks.

Things to keep in mind when using essential oils:

Just because a product is natural, does not mean it is safe. While essential oils can be very therapeutic and helpful, they can also cause harm to your dog (+ you typically pay for what you get with oils).

How much and how often you have to apply oils depend on the general health of your dog, where you live, weight and daily activities.

Never apply essential oils directly to your pet’s skin without properly diluting them or using a carrier oil (mixing with olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, grape seed oil to name a few).

Essential oils that should not be used on animals: Anise, Clove Leaf/Bud, Garlic, Horseradish, Thyme, Wintergreen, or Yarrow, to name a few.*

*For more info, please check out this helpful Natural News Article with tips for safety using essential oils on your dog or pet.

 

Do you use a natural flea and tick preventative? If so, what do you use? Are you satisfied with it’s performance?

 

 Other helpful articles:

Donate to Your Favorite Rescue by Walking Your Dog

I realize I may be a little bit behind on the latest and greatest phone apps, friends. However, I just downloaded this awesome {free} app called WoofTrax.

It’s pretty sweet…walk your pup to earn money for your shelter. Easy peasy.

Here’s how it works: you launch the app before your walk and then every mile you walk, WoofTrax donates to the animal rescue or shelter of your choice. And if you don’t know of a rescue, the app will locate your nearest rescue or shelter.

If you know of a rescue or shelter that isn’t listed, let them know that they can submit their information to be included!

Donate to Your Favorite Shelter Just by Walking Your Dog w/ phone app! www.lolathpitty.com

Now granted, it may not donate much with just your walk alone – but think of all the people that take their dogs out…it could really add up fast!

So, what are you waiting for – open your phone app store and search for WoofTrax. And don’t forget your phone when you head out on your walk!

Lola & Rio are more than willing to support this app, ha. More info also on WoofTrax.com

p.s. this is not a sponsored post, just a pretty cool idea that we thought you should know about!

My Writing Process: Blog Tour!

If you’re wondering what a blog tour is – welcome! This is a fun tour that you may have seen on other pet blogs that will allow me to (1) introduce you to a couple other pet bloggers &  (2) share my writing process!

Writers Process Blog TourYou may have seen a similar post on The Lazy Pit Bull. We are honored to be invited by Christina to participate!

So before we start, if you’re not familiar with Christina and Nike a.k.a ‘The Lazy Pit Bull’, head on over and say hello (and check out Christina’s Writing Process)!

 

 

Next up, a little behind-the-scenes look into my writing process:

1. What am I working on?

Well, *ahem*, I’m working on about 16 different blog posts. I’ve really perfected the process of starting a blog post with my initial ideas and then letting it sit in draft-mode for quite some time before it’s really had time to brew and is ready to go ‘live’. Also known as procrastination to some.

So with that being said, I’m working on tying up those loose ends, coming up with a tagline for my blog (any suggestions?) and also working on becoming more efficient when it comes to writing a blog post.

2. Why do I write what I do?

I have been in the blogging ‘world’ for just about five years. Last year I decided to start a blog about my passion: dogs and more specifically animal equality, rescue, and breed advocacy. I often share tips that we’ve learned from being dog owners, what I’m passionate about as well as adventures in our day-to-day lives!

My intention is never to publish a ton of content, but rather share a few quality posts that our fans will enjoy!

Below is a photo of my lavish ‘office’. Also known as my living room. Or rather, the dog’s living room.

The Writers Process Blog Tour by Lolathepitty.com

3. How does my writing process work?

Most often I come up with my best ideas while driving or about to fall asleep. Hence why I always keep a pen and paper nearby. But I’m often inspired by a situation I may encounter with the dogs or something that we run into while out and about. But really, I just try to entertain our followers and write from the heart.

It may go something like this:

Brainstorm >> scribble down notes >> draft post >> add finishing touches such as corresponding photos >> publish!

I wish it went as fast as it sounds…


Writers Process Blog Tour on Lolathepitty.comMeet Emily, Boomer & Dottie!

Emily’s blog, Adventures of a Dog Mom was one of the first dog blogs I stumbled upon.

And hey, they live in Colorado & have a dog named Boomer, so they already have my approval!

 

You’ll find all kind of goodies on Adventures of a Dog Mom, including a few favorite posts:


I hope you’ve enjoyed this little sneak peak into our blog life; please be sure to check out our The Lazy Pit Bull & Adventures of a Dog Mom and tell them Lola the Pitty sent ya!

10 Must-Watch Dog Videos!

10 Must-Watch Dog Videos on lolathepitty.com

10 Must-Watch Dog Videos on lolathepitty.com
I’m a sucker for a good dog video. Totally different that cat videos, right?

I’ve listed 10 of my favorite dog videos that range from hilarious to total tear jerkers.

So if you are ever a little bored and have nothing better to do besides fold laundry or clip your dog’s nails, why not watch a few videos while you’re at it? I promise they’re all totally worth it.

In no particular order…

1. Guy singing to his dog. I mean, how cute is this?

2. This next one made my eyes water, in a happy way. Totally worth 4 minutes of your time. Especially the last 15 seconds

3. If you haven’t seen this bulldog’s ‘best day of his life’ video, get on it.

4. Freakin’ hilarious. ‘Dog Wants a Kitty’.

5. Not much in life is cuter than a pitty pup…

6. Wallace’s 11th Birthday. ‘Nuff said.

Did someone say, homemade dog treats?

7. This dog is well, pretty amazing. We’ve got some work to do, boys and girls.

8. I love this story…it truly melts my heart.

9. This video gives me the goosebumps the moment the music starts playing. I couldn’t get past 45 seconds when I tried to rewatch it, so you might want to grab a box of tissues right about now.
Wallace – you are loved, you are missed and you are awesome.

10. So much fun! If you watch at 0:43, one of my friends and her dog, Good Karma Rue make an appearance in the video!

What are YOUR favorite dog videos? Please share the links, I’d love to take a peak!

Other fun stuff:

 

My Pittied Life: July

July seriously flew by. Between vacation to Colorado with the pups, traveling for work, blogging, and trying to enjoy the summer as much as possible, I suppose it’s understandable.

So please, get nosy and read on about our “pittied” life, July edition.

my-pittied-life-teal-lolathepitty

Colo-ra-dah

We did it again. Roadtripped it the ~13 hours to Colorado. Two humans in the front seats, two pibbles in the back. They ended up with far more space than we had. Typical. But what a blast! Hiking, spending lots of time with family, going out to eat at our favorite restaurants, brewery tours…you know. Lola and Rio would probably tell you that the highlight of the trip was being allowed to sleep in grandpa’s bed. Spoiled rotten.

"My Pittied Life" trip to Colorado by lolathepitty.com

"My Pittied Life" by lolathepitty.com

"My Pittied Life" by lolathepitty.com

Emma found her ‘fur-ever’ home

At last! Miss Emma, Mama, was adopted and went home at the end of the month. After saving her life, watching her give birth to ten puppies, getting the vet care she needed to finally being adopted, it was such a rewarding experience. Everyone thought that we’d cave in and ruin our streak and end up being “foster failures”. In my heart, I loved her and cared for her but we have our hands full with our two! Plus, accepting from the beginning that our fosters will eventually be going to another home seems to get easier and easier.

emma-rio-april11

TWO Canine Good Citizens!

Last month, Lola received her CGC and now Rio has joined the club! Proud of my two little dogs, even though at times I still question how they passed. Kidding. Somewhat.

Calendar Dog + Birthday!

Rio had his 15 minutes of fame this month. We went to a photo studio where he was the star and delighted us with his tricks while the photographer worked her magic.

The photo sessions were part of a fundraiser for Save-A-Bull Rescue in Minnesota. Any pups that booked a photo session are able to enter a photo in the rescue’s 2015 Calendar Contest. Voting will begin soon and I’ll be sure to send out a note on our Facebook page. After all, we’ve gotta get that handsome boy in the magazine!

Plus, sometime in the month of August Rio turns ONE! Big month for this guy. Happy Birthday baby boy, I think we’ll make another round of my Peanut Butter Banana Frozen Pupcake recipe!

Thanks for reading!

So, you support rescue…what about breeding?

We foster dogs.

We volunteer at animal rescues.

We support animal rescue and try to be the most responsible dog owners we can.

Does that imply that I am against breeding and drive around with an ‘adopt don’t shop’ sticker on my car?

love-my-dog-lolathepitty

Well, it’s fairly simple. Let me boil it down:

If you’re a responsible breeder who takes pride in preserving the beauty and characteristics of the breed, ensuring that the dog has good bloodlines and ensure that the puppies go to a home that is a good fit – then I totally support you.

If you’re an asshat who thinks that your dog is “cute or handsome” and therefore needs to make puppies…get a life.

My dog is way cuter than yours and she won’t be having puppies, ever.

We have enough cute pups in the world. Leave it to the experts. Puh-lease.

Lolathepitty.com

If you are doing it for the money, I take it you haven’t been in the business too long and are making a bigger impact on the shelter & rescue population than your wallet. Plus, you’re doing nothing for the breed and could very likely breed a dog that develops major health issues.

Check out the Humane Society’s “How to Identify a Responsible Breeder” checklist.

Both of our dogs came from the result of irresponsible breeding.

Rio was listed on Craiglist because his family lived in an apartment and they weren’t allowed to have dogs.

Hmm. I’ll be nice and spare you a few remarks about that situation. Well, he got lucky and ended up in a rescue group until we adopted him.

Lola’s entire litter was abandoned in an empty house and the owners took only the mother and father. I really wish I knew more to that story…One thing is certain – irresponsible human beings.

A responsible breeder should take the same amount of effort in finding their pups a good home as a reputable rescue group does. Get nosy, visit their house, ask a lot of questions. We’re talking about an animal that lives 10+ years here. And make the offer that should they ever need to surrender the dog, that you’ll take them back and find them another home.

We have the bigger brain here, people. Let’s use it.

What do you think? Do you care if people breed their dog? Are you a breeder? Does it drive you crazy when ‘backyard breeders’ sell their puppies for dirt cheap to the next person that walks by with enough cash?

Think you might enjoy these reads:

My First Foster Dog

My Dog Bit My Child – Teaching Children to Respect Dogs

2 Years Old – Happy Birthday, Lola!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Lola! www.lolathepitty.com

My baby girl…two years ago you fell into our lives.

Those two years flew by.

I remember (and Antonio probably even more so) the first day you came into our lives…

and shit all over the floor. That sucked.

I remember when all we would want to do is cuddle and hold you. And you hated both. You would scream your little puppy shrieks & try to scramble out of our arms when anyone would try to pick you up. You were (and still are) a feisty little thing.

Ahh, I will never forget the day you chewed through the drywall. That too, sucked.

I remember when you ate a hole through my favorite scarf. One week after I bought it.

I remember when you were oh-so sick and we stayed up with you watching your every move while on the phone with the emergency vet, making sure you were okay and hydrated.

Happy Birthday, Lola! www.lolathepitty.com

I remember when we were playing in the tennis courts and let’s just say, you couldn’t figure out the whole net thing…

I will never forget the day we took you in to get spayed and we had to sign a form indicating whether to resuscitate or not. That was scary.

And how could I ever forget that moment you ran onto our ‘naked neighbor’s’ deck to get your ball…that’s a story for another day.

I remember the day you howled through the entire 3 minute down-stay at graduation night from intermediate obedience.

And remember when we took you to the pond in Colorado and you waded in carefully, reaching with the very tips of your teeth to try and snag the tiny hairs on your tennis ball without going in any further? Only to find out there was a drop-off and you somersaulted into the water. Twice?! I have to say, I’m just glad you didn’t melt.

Happy Birthday, Lola! @lolathepitty

I remember when you ran off the set of your first photo shoot, only to run over and hug your dad.

I remember how you’ve accepted and helped us raise every foster dog we’ve brought into our house – and I thank you for that.

P.s. If anyone ever needs their ears cleaned (or just nibbled on), Lola would be glad to help you out.

We’ve been through our ups and downs. We’ve had our moments. Haven’t we all…

There’s been a lot of trial and error on my end.

Happy Birthday, Lola! @lolathepitty

Wow, do you really have to be two years old? Can we go back?

I’d do it all over again if it meant having you in our lives for an extra two years when that time comes. Because I want you to live as long as I live. I can’t imagine life without you.

But we can’t think about that right now. We have to embrace the present and live our lives to the fullest. We will enjoy every minute we have with you, because life comes and goes, entirely too fast.

We love you baby girl! Happy 2nd Birthday!

 

Behind the Scenes: Life of a Therapy Dog

All About Therapy Dogs - Common Questions & Answers. @lolathepitty

All About Therapy Dogs - Common Questions & Answers. @lolathepitty

What does a therapy dog do exactly!? Can my dog be a therapy dog – what is required of them? I wouldn’t even know where to begin!

So while I’ve done a little research myself on therapy dogs (as many of you know, I am in the process of becoming a therapy team with Rio), I’ve consulted with a couple experts: Laura Bruccoleri and her dog, Piper, as well as Kellie French and her dogs, Marri and Cedric!

*Laura and her dog Piper, who you may know as ‘Pipers Page of Life‘ on Facebook, are two friends of ours that have been doing therapy work for several years. Piper is an American Pit Bull Terrier and is an amazing breed ambassador!

*Kellie is the Volunteer Education Director at A Rotta Love Plus (animal rescue in Minnesota) and also works with PRIORITY Paws partner organizations. So what does PRIORITY Paws stand for? Pit bull & Rottweiler Interactive OutReach, Instruction, & Therapy for Youth. They are helping the breed, helping youth and reducing violence!

PRIORITY Paws conducts dog-therapy groups with youth in crisis who reside in local youth-services organizations. Pit bulls and Rottweilers provide the youth with a tremendously powerful parallel: the dogs’ stories of abuse, neglect, and negative social perception often mirror those of the youth, and can inspire the youth with stories of redemption and resiliency.
Helps the Breed
PRIORITY Paws reduces the risk for violence against animals, and improves the perception and treatment of the pit bull and Rottweiler breeds.
Helps Youth 
Research has demonstrated that animal-assisted programs can reduce the propensity for violence against animals by increasing empathy and improving overall attitudes toward animals.
Reduces Violence
It has been demonstrated that animal-assisted programs can reduce the propensity for violence against animals by increasing empathy and improving overall attitudes toward animals and humanity in general. As the youth form a relationship with the PRIORITY Paws dogs, they develop a deep sense of appreciation and trust for these breeds.

I asked Laura & Kellie many of the most common questions that arise with therapy dogs and here’s what I found out!

What are some of the most important things a therapy dog MUST be able to do all the time?

“I believe the most important quality could be the fact that Piper can and does remain calm in any given situation.  She’s non-reactive to loud or disruptive distractions and actually seems to help spread calmness to those around her.” – Laura

Therapy dogs should have a very even temperament. Keep in mind that there is more a therapy dog than just having a friendly dog who loves people. The dog’s demeanor, temperament, and focus on you are very important when ‘on the job’.

Is there a lot of training to become a therapy dog?

“It really depends on the dog. Personally, I have two dogs with very different personalities.

My first registered therapy dog is high energy. She became so overly excited about everything and everyone, that we went through a lot of dog training classes (or what my trainers have always referred to as ‘human training’), various obedience classes and even a Rally and Agility class which really helped me learn how to appropriately manage a high energy dog in situations where she needs to tone it down. After she mastered keeping her butt down on the ground for a solid sit/stay and keeping all four feet on the ground when greeting people, we were ready for the therapy dog test.

Meet Marri & Cedric - Behind the Scenes of Life as a Therapy Dog - @lolathepitty
Marri & Cedric

In stark contrast, my slower (slightly dopey) male who I adopted at about one-and-a-half years old, only needed a basic obedience and Canine Good Citizen (CGC)/therapy dog class and easily passed the therapy dog test.

However, be aware of the available national therapy dog organizations that provide registration/testing in your area, as different organizations have requirements.” – Kellie

_______________________________________________

 “I did a lot of research and used very reputable resources for referrals as to which organization to register with. Everyone has different preferences to meet their needs.  It’s best to research each organization to see which one suits you best.  I feel it’s best to talk to individuals who have experience with a few of the organizations you have selected.” – Laura

Do you have to have an open schedule to do therapy work?

“It really depends on the type of therapy work that you’re interested in doing, but generally, no. You can visit organizations when it works best for you. Adult assisted living facilities and hospitals are two most commonly visited types of places where therapy dogs are welcome. Both places are open 24/7, so daytime/evening/weekend visiting is available.

If you’re interested in doing therapy dog work with children, daytime opportunities are more common. However, various libraries have read programs where you can bring your therapy dog into the library and children can practice reading, while the therapy dog quietly listens.

And there are various other opportunities that may be available as well. Most national therapy dog organizations have lists of organizations who are requesting therapy dogs in your area, so that’s a great place to start.” – Kellie

How often do you visit places with your therapy dog? Is there a certain amount required?

“Currently, one of my dogs does therapy work for approximately two-four hours per month and my second dog and I volunteer that amount of time approximately every two months.

For us, there is no required amount of time; however, you’ll have to check with the national organization that you’re registered with to determine if they have requirements.” – Kellie

Piper
Piper

What is the best part of being a therapy dog team?

“For me, I love working with kids, especially youth who have experienced trauma, violence, and/or abuse and neglect.

Watching a therapy dog display kindness, affection, and attention to the kids then have these kids smile and sometimes even open up about their difficult experiences is truly amazing.

Within one group that I was part of, one of our therapy registered Rottweiler’s laid her head in a girls lap. The girl at first ignored the dog as she was pretty shut down. Soon she started petting the dog and by the end of the group she was starting to talk and participate in group.

Later I learned that she had just been sexually assaulted a few days prior and would not speak. The staff at the shelter reported that this is the first time they heard her speak, so they were excited to help her healing begin. It was truly an amazing moment which I will never forget.” – Kellie

______________________________________________

“The best parts of being a therapy dog team are the smiles and excitement I receive.  Visiting the children with Autism disabilities had proven the most positive outcome.” – Laura

Is your dog allowed to go in stores with you if he is a therapy dog?

“No. Therapy dogs have to be allowed into facilitates based on the policies of that organization.

Just because my dog is registered as a therapy dog does not mean that I can take my dog on public transportation or have a right to bring my dog into any facility.

Most organizations that allow therapy dogs often have a volunteer training for their facility that you have to go through. You will likely even have to fill out an application and background form to volunteer there with your therapy dog.

Unfortunately, some organizations who welcome therapy dogs continue to have a breed ban. In Minnesota, our Children’s Hospital does not allow therapy dog teams that are pit bull or Rottweiler teams. So certainly, be aware of discrimination and I will always encourage people to meet with people at those organizations to change this policy.” – Kellie

What’s your favorite therapy job?

“Piper’s favorite jobs, I believe, are working with the Autistic children at the Elementary School and the children with cancer at the Children’s Hospital.” – Laura

Being a Pit bull, have you ever been discriminated against at a facility?

“At first, when being interviewed by certain facilities, when giving the information that she was in fact an APBT, there was a sign of hesitation in their voice.  But each and every personal interview and meeting prior to each visit has proven to be a success and the reaction is typically, “She’s an amazing dog and we can’t wait to have her our facility!”.

Changing minds to those who doubt her because of her breed has been one of Piper’s best accomplishments.” – Laura

“Unfortunately, some organizations who welcome therapy dogs continue to have a breed ban. In Minnesota, our Children’s Hospital does not allow therapy dog teams that are pit bull or Rottweiler teams. So certainly, be aware of discrimination and I will always encourage people to meet with people at those organizations to change this policy.” – Kellie

Piper
Piper

Where do therapy dogs go?

Assisted Living
Schools – Children Reading to Dogs
DSRD (Disaster Stress Relief Dogs)
Home Visits
Hospice
Hospitals
Libraries
Nursing Homes
Schools
Shelters
Funeral Homes
And wherever else therapy dogs are needed!

Has your dog ever done something silly/embarrassing while ‘on the job’?

“Ah yes, various moments like this. We had a group outside and Cedric plopped out a big smelly poop, which of course, the kids found hilarious!

Cedric also has had tremendous gas at times and also drools excessively if someone is making something yummy that he can smell (we always come prepared with a small towel to wipe him off).

Dogs of course are never embarrassed by these normal bodily functions, so it creates a great conversation to have with kids about how care-free dogs can be and then we turn this into a conversation about how to deal with moments like this in school, with peers, etc. It’s a great segway into talking about key life skills such as those!” – Kellie

“Piper always has silliness about her.  She tends to “plop” down on the laps of the children or places her paw on the book they’re reading to her preventing them from turning the pages, hahaha!” – Laura

Do you think you have a dog who would be great as a therapy animal?
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related:
6 Remedies for Dog Allergies <– that work awesome for Lola and Rio!
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My Pittied Life // June

You know how life can get so incredibly busy that you can’t even remember what you had for lunch two days ago?

Okay, so maybe my memory is borderline horrible, but I feel like there’s so much going on with the dogs’ lives lately that I fail to mention (let’s be honest, my life would be quite boring without them).

Thus the beginning of this series:

my-pittied-life-teal-lolathepitty

Each month I will have a post dedicated to what’s happening in our crazy “pittied” lives. And I’ve got a lot to cover this month, so bare with me & scroll on!

Obedience Training

At the end of May, Lola received her Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate!!!

And Rio is well on his way. Right now, we are taking Advanced Obedience class and in just four short weeks we test for his CGC. Then if all goes as planned – therapy prep class!

Rio - Obedience Graduation. www.lolathepitty.com

So proud of all the hard work we’ve put in. It really does pay off! But the most important thing I’ve learned – patience is key.

Adventure at the Northstar Bike Race

Lola the Pitty
Photo by Megan Rademacher

We took the pups to the city for a large bicycle race that was going on that one of my friends was photographing.

We decided to bring Lola and Enoch as I wanted to see how E would react in a crowd. After all, he’s basically rocked every other experience he has been introduced to; and he did not disappoint here either.

Enoch quickly began stealing the center light from Lola – which I don’t think she minded one bit.

We even had a stranger come up to us and ask if he could take Enoch’s picture! He remarked, “Wow, that is one awesome looking dog…do you mind?!”.

Let’s just say we did our duty of making positive impressions for pitties. We must have been asked 15 different times, “Are those pit bulls!? They are so pretty and nice…I really like your dogs!”.

Then we walked past the Apple store and they invited Lola and Enoch inside to enjoy some fresh water. Again, everyone fell in love and was complementing the dogs on how good they were being and what pretty dogs they are.

Way to be awesome breed ambassadors, Lola & E!

Enoch!

Enoch - adoptable dog on lolathepitty.com

If you follow us on Facebook you have probably seen the photos of our newest {temporary} foster, Enoch. Oh my gosh ya’ll, I’m in love…again. However, he’s going to be another Weeser experience, I already know it.

We have been trying to help him with his crate anxiety and have been using our own tips for crate training, along with a new-found solution: place Rio in the crate with him. And it worked marvelously! Turns out it may be more of a separation anxiety, but we are making progress even in the short time we’ve had him.

I’m also fairly certain he has a home lined up – wish us luck as we’ll know more soon. Can’t wait to tell everyone!

p.s. I say temporary foster because (to let you in on a little secret not-so-secret) we may be bringing Mama Emma back to our home until she gets adopted, once her pups are old enough of course.

Big news: Emma & Pups

Mama Emma’s puppies are seven weeks old this weekend, crazy how time flies!

One Four Five of them are already spoken for and the meet and greets are beginning for the other pups.

If you’re interested in meeting one of Emma’s pups, you can start by filling out an application on the Secondhand Hounds Rescue site.

Mama Emma's Puppies from Secondhand Hounds Rescue - www.lolathepitty.com

Birthday month!

Someone…who this blog so happens to be named after, has a birthday coming up at the end of June! Let’s call in June 25th since we really have no idea when she was actually born.

Lola the Pitty! Photography by Barbara O'Brien Photography
Barbara O’Brien Photography

I think we’ll celebrate with pupcakes and meet up with friends at a park! Cannot believe she’s going to be two years old already.

Thanks for reading!

Cuteness Overload

Be prepared to be overwhelmed with cuteness. We went to visit Emma and her TEN pups on Saturday.

(if you haven’t read the story about Emma’s journey, start HERE.)

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

We ended up having a little mini photo shoot.

Turns out taking photos of ten four-week old pups can be the highlight of your weekend.

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

As you can imagine, there was a whole lot of high pitched baby-talkin’ voices. ‘A’ specializes in this, truly.

“Come here wittle cutie patootie – kiss, kiss, kiss”

(I want to take this boy home with me!)

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

“Ohhh you so cute, aren’t you?! Smoochie, smoochie my little Georgie boy!”

I mean, seriously. These little nuggets are too darn cute. And they are at that age where they are just starting to cruise around on their wobbly little legs; which some proved to be very good at. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a little kiss. And they love to suck on your fingers and nibble on your shoelaces. I didn’t mind one bit.

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

If you’re wondering what breed these pups are, my best answer is Heinz 57. Both parents are mixed breeds. Emma is a pittie mix and dad is, well, your best guess. See pictures of mom and dad here.

I can already tell you who the trouble maker is going to be:

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

The hardest part: keeping track of who was done and who we still needed to snap photos of.

Solution: bucket-o-puppies

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

The next challenge, five black puppies with a little bit of white on their chest and feet, so we had to write down who-was-who on a sheet of paper.

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

We took a total of about 200 photos between Emily and I. We *might* be a little obsessed.

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

If you are interested in adopting one of these puppies, you can fill out an application on Secondhand Hounds website. Puppies will be available for adoption at 8 weeks old (which will be at the end of June).

Until next time…!

Cuteness overload: Emma's 4 week old puppies | @lolathepitty

*Read: Behind the Scenes of an Animal Rescue