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New Study Shows Sleeping With Pets Can Improve Your Sleep Quality

New Giant Mattress is 12 Feet Across, Perfect for All Pets and Their Humans

According to new research by the Mayo Clinic, snuggling with your pup all night might improve the quality of your sleep. I couldn've told them that! I've slept with my dogs since my first canine family member, Siesta, came into my life when I was five-years-old. That ugly looking chihuahua mix lulled me to sleep with her snores and kept me warm on cold nights throughout my childhood. Today, my beautiful Australian Shepherd Seven sleeps in bed with me.

The study included 40 adults with no known sleep issues, and their dogs, six months and older. Each person and their dog were affixed with an accelerometer which measured sleep time and sleep efficiency in both participants.

“Today, many pet owners are away from their pets for much of the day, so they want to maximize their time with them when they are home,” said sleep center specialist and study co-author Dr. Lois Krahn, M.D. in a Mayo Clinic statement. “Having them in the bedroom at night is an easy way to do that. And, now, pet owners can find comfort knowing it won’t negatively impact their sleep.”

The Ace Collection makes sleeping with your pets a breeze with a giant mattress and bed frame that spans 12 feet across. The Ace family size mattress was made when a client wanted a bed big enough for her children to cuddle in while reading a bedtime story. But all I see is more space for my four-legged family members.

The Ace mattress comes in three giant sizes: the Ace Size, Ace Player Size, and the Ace Family Size with prices ranging from $2,250-$4, 054 depending on size and firmness. They also sell hypoallergenic 200-250 thread count bedding, from flat sheets to pillow cases to duvets, in order to fit their extra-wide beds. Woof!!!

Did You Know February 20 is National Love Your Pet Day?

Tomorrow is National Love Your Pet Day! This holiday is a day set aside to give extra attention to and pamper your pets. This is a good day to focus on the special relationship that you have with your dog. What are you going to do to celebrate your furry family member? Here are some excellent ideas:

1) Bring your pet a special treat.
How about ordering some yummy all natural treats or a fun new toy! from PrizedPet.com? Seven LOVES these Blissful Biscuit's. Besides being made in the USA, these treats are carefully crafted with cheese, bacon flavor (Seven's favorite food) and spent grains from local breweries. Or an adorable Lamb Chop Plush Dog Toy - 6 Inch might be the ways of showing you care. Seven plays with his Lamb Chop all the time! Take 20% off all orders online until midnight on February 21st using code LOVE.

2) Take your pet for an extra long walk.  
Dog owners enjoy numerous health and social benefits by walking their dog a few times a week. Benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones (built up by walking regularly), and decreased stress. A regular walk is vitally important for your pet's health too.

3) Take your dog on a bike ride.
There are many dog biking accessories that make riding with your pooch a breeze! Here are some from Amazon to check out. Be sure to train your dog to run alongside your bike before you head out. It's easy, Just hook your pet up and walk your bike. Get them used to the idea. I use the Walky Dog Plus Hands-Free Dog Bicycle Exerciser Leash.

4) Take your dog with your to a pet-friendly restaurant.
BringFido.com has a list of dog-friendly places to eat across the country. Some even offer dog menus like Seven's favorite, Lazy Dog Restaurant.

5) Take an Agility class.
Dogs gain confidence, release energy and learn how to stay focused while in high spirits. Google sog agility to find a class near you.

6) Plan a day trip for you and your pet.
Most dogs love to ride in the car. Take your dog along if you’re visiting friends or family. For a special treat, include a side trip to do some shopping with your dog. Some dogs love to browse at pet supply stores (many of which allow you to bring your dog inside). Your dog may ask for a treat or two, so be prepared to spend a little money on this outing!

7) Spend the afternoon at your local dog park.
Off-leash dog parks are becoming more common in many cities. Most are securely fenced, have safety signs posted with park rules, and require that you clean up after your dog (take some bags in case they’re not provided). Social dogs enjoy meeting new dog friends and returning to see them time and time again. You might make new friends as well!  For more information, visit www.dog-play.com/dogpark.html.

8) Dance with your dog.
Freestyle musical dance is a choreographed set of moves, performed to music, done by dogs in partnership with their handlers. If you have not seen this new “sport” in action, you will be amazed at the level of expertise that can be achieved through teamwork, focus, and practice, practice, practice. For more information, visit www.dog-play.com/musical.html.

9) Teach your dog to play Frisbee.
If your dog loves to play ball, you may want to buy a disc and get your dog involved in this great form of exercise. One word of caution, however: This sport involves a lot of jumping, so consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on a vigorous Frisbee training program. For more information, visit www.dogplay.com/Activities/disc.html.

10) Take a hike.
Though most national parks don’t allow dogs on trails, there are many state parks that do. For more information on finding dog-friendly trails in your state, visit hikewithyourdog.com.

11) Plan a doggie vacation.
If you haven’t taken a vacation with your dog, give it some thought. It can be very rewarding to have your dog along on your adventure, and many hotel chains accept dogs these days. To find dog-friendly lodging, visit www.dogfriendly.com, a website that also lists dog-friendly restaurants, parks, beaches and other attractions. The website called www.petfriendlytravel.com includes vacation rentals, such as cabins, condos and B&Bs. If you want to take it a step further, look into dog camps, the ultimate vacation for you and your dog. They provide games, training opportunities, and plenty of other dogs to interact with. For a list of dog camps, visit www.dog-play.com/camps.html.

You may be like me and believe every day is the perfect opportunity to love your dog. If that's the case, just keep doing what you're doing. Our furry friends are worth it!

Happy Love Your Pet Day!

A Healthy and Happy Dog Starts With a Healthy Gut

Millions of dogs and cats suffer from chronic digestive disorders including my boy Seven. So when I heard about a company that's doing something about the problem, I had to find out more. According to AnimalBiome, gut bacteria known as microbiome are vital to your pet’s health. From chronic digestive disorders to mental health, the microbiome affects almost every aspect of your pet’s health and happiness.

The microbiome explained

All animals on earth have unique collections of thousands of different types of microbes in their digestive tracts, collectively termed the gut microbiome. Bacteria in the microbiome are crucial for digestion and for obtaining nutrients from the food they eat. When these gut bacteria are out of balance, digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease can occur. Beyond digestion, gut bacteria impact a broad spectrum of biological functions and have roles in developing allergies, diabetes, and even anxiety.

When the bacteria in your dog or cat’s gut are out of balance, the microbiome can trigger intestinal inflammatory responses. This inflammation left untreated will lead to chronic illnesses. In Seven's case, he suffers from loose stools on a good day and major diarrhea on a bad one. He's had this issue since I adopted him when he was only ten months old. It scared me from the get-go. I've been down the road of stomach issues in the past. My beloved Puli Baldwin suffered from Pancreatitis. I spent thousands of dollars to make him feel better and in the end, he died from Pancreatic Cancer.

Since I became Seven's guardian, I've been treating his gut with medications along with white rice and pumpkin but nothing seems to cure him. So when I read about AnmalBiome and the possibility of curing Seven's gut, I jumped at the chance.

It's easy. Just sign up on the AnimalBiome website and they'll send you a kit. All you have to do is follow the directions and send back your pet's stool samples. AnimalBiome will run tests and give you comparison tools to see how your pet’s gut bacteria rank among benchmark healthy and sick pets.

As the company learns more about the different types of bacteria in your companion’s microbiome, they will keep you informed of the latest research. The mission of this AnimalBiome is to use science to improve the lives of pets. The company applies what they learn from your dog or cat’s sample to identify and develop solutions to digestive disorders.

In my case, the company did find some issues in Seven's gut and suggested I add Psyllium husk powder to his food. He can have one teaspoon in the morning and a second at night but I've had to start slow to give him adequate time for his system to get accustomed to it. Its only been a few days but I already notice a difference in his poops and that makes me, and Seven very happy! Woof!

Bliss and Seven's Adventure in Dog Friendly Carmel-by-the-Sea!

Carmel, Dog Heaven On Earth Carmel-by-the-Sea lives up to its reputation as the #1 Dog-Friendly Town in America. Hotels, shops, and restaurants roll out the red carpet for dogs and their guardians and the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers many places — beaches, trails, and tourist attractions — where dogs can frolic. Water bowls, dog treats, and biodegradable bags are the typical amenities you'll find around town, plus high-end services like massages, doggy turn downs, surf lessons and yappy hour.

Dog-Friendly Hotels, B&Bs, and Inns

Bliss and Seven's adventure in the Northern California town couldn't have been better. Carmel has 25 pet-friendly hotels, B&Bs, and inns. You'll find no neon, national chains or conventioneers here—just folks who are similarly experiencing the unique rejuvenation Carmel provides. Sitting amidst oceans of flowers and Cypress, and bathed in Pacific breezes, the village's hotels and inns provide an unparalleled sense of discovery.

We stayed at the Carmel Country Inn known as Carmel's most pet-friendly Bed & Breakfast. Situated on the edge of the quiet village, Bliss appreciated the cozy yet spacious accommodations, especially the fireplace because it gets chilly at night. Seven liked the easy access to fun!

Dog-Friendly Restaurants
Many restaurants in Carmel will seat canine companions with their guardians on outside patios as well as a few indoor locations. "Yappy Hour" and a doggie room service menu are offered at co-owner Doris Day's Cypress Inn. We ate at the Village Corner Bistro, a Carmel landmark and dining favorite of locals for more than 60 years. Let me tell you, the bread alone is to die for! We also enjoyed a gourmet meal at Grasings Coastal Cuisine and got to meet Chef Kurt who has worked in some of the finest restaurants in the world (and his food tastes like it!). At Porta Bella Carmel, we dined on the picturesque flagstone patio while a waiter entertained us with his beautiful tenor voice.

Scenic Path & Carmel Beach
Scenic Road meanders along the curve of Carmel beach and offers a packed dirt path alongside for joggers, on-leash dog walkers, and sightseers. Spanning from Carmel Beach to Carmel River Beach, the Scenic Road path offers some of the area's most incredible views of Carmel Point, Point Lobos State Reserve, Pebble Beach Golf Links, and Carmel's famous Cypress trees and white-sand beach. Dogs are allowed off-leash on Carmel beach, however, they must be under the voice control of their owners. Canine visitors at Carmel beach can romp along the surf and frolic with one another on the sand which is a highlight of most doggie trips to Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Mission Trails Park Mission Trail Park encompasses 37 acres of California Coastal native vegetation, with meadows, dense Monterey Pine forest and a grove of Oak trees. There are two entrances to the park: one east of downtown on Mountainview Avenue and the other on Rio Road across the street from the Carmel Mission. Dogs can be off-leash but must be under voice control and follow all of the rules.

Carmel Business District

Some shops in the Carmel Business District have miniature hitching posts outside while others invite well-behaved dogs to accompany their owners inside. Bliss and Seven love to shop!

The Carmel Plaza has a drinking fountain just for dogs, called the Fountain of Woof. Don't miss Diggidy Dog, an enormous pet boutique that offers nearly anything you would ever think of buying for your dog or cat. They have an entire room full of pet beds of all shapes and sizes, and an almost ridiculous selection of collars, leashes and pet clothing. There's even a small grassy spot just outside the front doors where dogs can relieve themselves. Seven got a beautiful new collar there, Bliss got a special dog treat.

Doggie Services
While in town, Bliss and Seven got the royal treatment at Suds & Sizzors, the area's most elegant grooming retreat. Both Bliss and Seven never looked, or smelled so good!

We also had a session with dog therapist A. Herman, an intuitive healer and animal communicator. She's known for balancing dogs (and other four-leggeds) physically, emotionally, and energetically. She recommended we try some Well Scents custom and specialty aromatherapy blends. Well Scents products are made from the highest quality available natural aromatherapy ingredients. They are specifically formulated for safe daily use on horses, dogs, cats, and people.

We also did a doggie photo shoot at the beach with Liz from Lovedog & Company. She took the fantastic shot on the top of this blog of Bliss and Seven on the rock in Carmel. Liz's photographic style is soulful and uncluttered with a modern aesthetic. Her photographs reveal the nuances of her subjects; tell big stories through small details, in short, Liz's pictures still or moving, speak louder than words. She's available for private commissions, but also concentrates her efforts on projects for animal rescue.

For the safety of all dogs and visitors, please note that dogs must have a current license, up-to-date vaccinations, respond to voice command and be in visual control. Dogs under four months of age are not permitted as their shots and vaccines are not effectual yet. Owners are responsible for pets at all times. Dogs may be off-leash on Carmel Beach and Mission Trails Park.

Bliss and Seven can't wait to get back to Carmel. I can't either! Woof!!!

9 Tips for Taking Epic Road Trips With Your Dog

Bliss and Seven love to go everywhere with me. If you're like me and are planning to bring your dog with you on vacation, make it an epic adventure by following these 9 tips on traveling with your dog:

          1) Plan your route
Make sure your schedule includes time for regular potty breaks and time to stretch between destinations. Experts suggest you take a 15 to 30 minute break every 4 hours. You can also make very long trips more enjoyable for both of you if you plan stops at locations with pet-friendly attractions, even if it’s just a nice dog park.

2)    Get a weather report
Be prepared for issues like rain that could slow your travel, and also avoid potential natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. Take the weather into consideration when packing for your dog. If it’s colder than she’s used to, you may need to pack some warm clothing for her, too.

3)    Book pet-friendly accommodations
Now that you have your route planned, you need to plan for lodging. Not all hotels accept pets, and even campsites often have restrictions. Contact individual hotels in advance to find out their pet policies, including breed restrictions, rules, and possible fees. Pet-friendly accommodations can be found at BringFido.com.

4)    Arrange for dog care at your destination
If you are attending an event where dogs aren’t allowed, such as a wedding or graduation, locate a daycare or boarding service. Don’t leave your dog unattended in a hotel room. The unfamiliar environment can cause your dog more anxiety than at home, so you want to ensure he’s being cared for by professionals. Go to DogVacay for info and use this code for $10 off your reservation: Blissdog

5)    Crate your dog
The safest way for dogs to travel in a car is in a safety-certified, crash-tested crate. It will also provide a comfortable, safe, and familiar place for your dog to sleep in at the hotel, motel, or other accommodation.

6)    Pack a bag for your dog
Consider all the places you will visit along the way when packing. Items you may need include:

·       Food and food bowl

·       Water, water bottle, and bowl

·       Treats

·       Toys for chewing and fetching

·       Medications

·       Protective clothing

·       Dog-safe insect repellent and sunscreen

·       Blanket and dog towel

·       Brush and shampoo

·       Flea comb and tick remover

·       Poop bags

7)    Update your dog’s ID
Mke sure your dog has his or her ID on them. If the number on his tag is your home phone number, this could be very difficult. If needed, make an ID just for the trip, listing not just your cell phone number but an additional emergency number for a friend or family member in the area.

8)    Prepare your dog for the trip
Many dogs suffer from car sickness, so it’s best to feed your dog a few hours before you get in the car. Before you head out, take a nice, long walk, so she’s ready to rest and relax for the trip. Also, get a copy of your dog’s medical records and extra meds, just in case your trip is delayed. And take the time to program your phone with contact information, including the address, for a 24/7 emergency dog vet at your destination.

9)    Maintain your routine
It’s not possible to do everything exactly as you would at home, but the more you remain consistent, the better. Once you reach your destination, feed and walk your dog on the same schedule you would at home. If you can, increase the walk time to help him get rid of the extra excitement and anxiety of the trip.

You’ve taken the time to prepare, so now just kick back, have fun, and enjoy the time together! Woof!