It's our first Christmas without Lola and Zeus... and we're all missing them very much.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Christmas Trees, Santa and Antlers - Oh My!
Can you believe Christmas is in 2 days? We sure can't... so let's get wordless!
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Getting Wild with #Sojos Venison Dog Treats #Chewy
Disclosure: Chewy sent a bag of Sojos Simply Wild Venison treats to Lapdog Creations, free of charge, for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Our friends at Chewy.com have done it again... and this time it's an answer to the raw, field-fresh game that all dogs crave!
We received a bag of Sojos Simply Wild freeze-dried treats to sample this month and boy were the Lapdogs excited. As soon as I opened the bag, all three were drooling. I wish I took video because that is no exaggeration... I also wish I didn't open the bag in the morning because drool is not exactly the "it" accessory you want for your day job outfit.
Sojos Simply freeze-dried treats are currently available in several proteins, including Lamb, Turkey, Beef, Wild Venison, Wild Salmon and Wild Boar. We received Wild Venison.
Sojos Simply Wild Venison is exactly as the name implies - 100% free-range Venison. Nothing is added - no preservatives, no artificial flavors or colors. There is literally nothing in the bag except for the raw, field-fresh game that dogs crave (and Lapdogs drool for).
Trust me when I say, your dog will do just about anything for a Sojos freeze-dried treat! Princess Sophie, who typically looks at me as if I'm speaking Japanese when asked to sit, promptly sat - and yes, drooled... a lot - for these Wild Venison morsels.
These treats aren't just designed to make your dog happy, however. I feel great giving them something that I know is good for them. Sojos Simply Wild Venison treats are made with USDA-certified meat and are high in protein, low in fat. The natural free-range meat is gently freeze-dried to lock in all the natural enzymes, vitamins and minerals.
Key Benefits
The Lapdogs think Sojos Simply Wild Venison would make great stocking stuffers, or New Year's goodies. Grab a bag for your pup today at Chewy. And if Venison isn't their thing, remember Sojos offers several other freeze-dried protein treats. Or, try them all... after all 1-2 shipping is always free at Chewy on orders of $49 or more!
Our friends at Chewy.com have done it again... and this time it's an answer to the raw, field-fresh game that all dogs crave!
We received a bag of Sojos Simply Wild freeze-dried treats to sample this month and boy were the Lapdogs excited. As soon as I opened the bag, all three were drooling. I wish I took video because that is no exaggeration... I also wish I didn't open the bag in the morning because drool is not exactly the "it" accessory you want for your day job outfit.
Sojos Simply freeze-dried treats are currently available in several proteins, including Lamb, Turkey, Beef, Wild Venison, Wild Salmon and Wild Boar. We received Wild Venison.
Sojos Simply Wild Venison is exactly as the name implies - 100% free-range Venison. Nothing is added - no preservatives, no artificial flavors or colors. There is literally nothing in the bag except for the raw, field-fresh game that dogs crave (and Lapdogs drool for).
Did You Know?
Venison is the ultimate red meat — rich in protein and low in fat, calories and cholesterol. What’s more, it’s packed with field-fresh flavor.
Trust me when I say, your dog will do just about anything for a Sojos freeze-dried treat! Princess Sophie, who typically looks at me as if I'm speaking Japanese when asked to sit, promptly sat - and yes, drooled... a lot - for these Wild Venison morsels.
These treats aren't just designed to make your dog happy, however. I feel great giving them something that I know is good for them. Sojos Simply Wild Venison treats are made with USDA-certified meat and are high in protein, low in fat. The natural free-range meat is gently freeze-dried to lock in all the natural enzymes, vitamins and minerals.
Key Benefits- High in protein, low in fat
- Freeze-dried to lock in natural enzymes, vitamins and minerals
- No artificial preservatives
- No artificial flavors or colors
- Made with natural, USDA-certified meat
The Lapdogs think Sojos Simply Wild Venison would make great stocking stuffers, or New Year's goodies. Grab a bag for your pup today at Chewy. And if Venison isn't their thing, remember Sojos offers several other freeze-dried protein treats. Or, try them all... after all 1-2 shipping is always free at Chewy on orders of $49 or more!
Monday, December 21, 2015
Last Minute Shopping? #Craftsy Has You Covered!
#ad
Last minute shopping got you spinning in circles?
Need a last minute, affordable gift for the holidays?
STOP!
Sit down with your favorite beverage and let Craftsy help with your list!
I know what you're thinking, "but Uncle Buck doesn't knit and Aunt Lucy burns water."
Did you know that Craftsy offers online classes in quite a variety of hobbies, including...
Give the gift of learning this season with a Craftsy class that you can watch anytime, anywhere.... or treat yourself! But hurry, all classes are discounted through Saturday, December 26... so shop now!
Last minute shopping got you spinning in circles?
Need a last minute, affordable gift for the holidays?
STOP!
Sit down with your favorite beverage and let Craftsy help with your list!
I know what you're thinking, "but Uncle Buck doesn't knit and Aunt Lucy burns water."
Did you know that Craftsy offers online classes in quite a variety of hobbies, including...
- Fiber Arts - crocheting, knitting, spinning and weaving
- Photography
- Cake Decorating
- Painting
- Woodworking
- Jewelry Making
- Embroidery
- Paper Crafts
- Gardening
- Cinnamon Rolls: Classic to Contemporary
- Radiant Stamping Techniques
- Stunning Panoramas: Simplify Your Workflow
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Black & White Sunday: Almost
I call this shot "Almost."
"Almost" is from our practice Christmas card photo shoot. It was an overcast day that resulted in some blurry shots, but I wanted to try out the Lapdogs' new antlers (which their Grammy bought for them). Penny clicked with the angelic ones, while Sophie had knocked hers off just before the shutter clicked. Teutul was sporting his Boston Bruins bow tie just for fun.
While the shot is clearly an out-take, I adore it. It really captured their personalities... with Sophie walking toward the camera, Penny doing her best not to move during a "stay" and Teutul looking all pleased with himself.
"Almost" is from our practice Christmas card photo shoot. It was an overcast day that resulted in some blurry shots, but I wanted to try out the Lapdogs' new antlers (which their Grammy bought for them). Penny clicked with the angelic ones, while Sophie had knocked hers off just before the shutter clicked. Teutul was sporting his Boston Bruins bow tie just for fun.
While the shot is clearly an out-take, I adore it. It really captured their personalities... with Sophie walking toward the camera, Penny doing her best not to move during a "stay" and Teutul looking all pleased with himself.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Maintaining Healthy Joints - 30 Day Nutramax Cosequin Challenge with #Chewy
Disclosure: Chewy sent a bag of Nutramax Cosequin DS to Lapdog Creations, free of charge, for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
A few weeks ago we told you Sophie was starting a 30 Day Nutramax Cosequin Challenge with our friends at Chewy.
Well, here we are for our mid-way check in... and I'm pleased to report that Sophie is doing well and loves her Nutramax Cosequin DS plus MSM Soft Chews!
Sophie has been taking Cosequin daily and has no idea that it's really "medicine." She seems to know the Cosequin bag is her special bag of treats and actually seems to flaunt it to her brother and sister as if to say "these are mine... all mine... ha ha ha."
As soon as I grab the bag, she gets super excited, jumping up and down, waiting for her chew. I really need to get a video clip of her "Cosequin Dance," as it is quite the sight to see. And no, she does not dance like this for just any 'ole treat. Sure, she gets big eyes and excited for regular treats, but the dance is something special. Perhaps it's her way of singing "na-na na-na na-na" like a little kid in a school yard? Or maybe it's Sophie's special way of showing me the Cosequin is working? Knowing her, my money is on the singing...
Sophie's "special treats" play an important role in maintaining optimal joint function, and at 9 years old it seemed like a perfect time to get her started. Cosequin helps support cartilage production and protect existing cartilage from breakdown - important issues to watch for in senior dogs.
I love the fact that Cosequin DS plus MSM Soft Chews provide a perfect combination of ingredients to keep my dog healthy. Instead of having to give 3 or 4 separate pills, Cosequin packs them all into one bite sized morsel.
Each Soft Chew contains:
I also love the fact that Cosequin soft chews are so easy and convenient to give to Sophie - and that she likes them! My old girl is the only dog I've met who will spit out those heartworm preventative "tasty" chews. If we're not careful, she'll even separate her new heartworm medicine from the peanut butter we pack it in.... gobbling up all the tasty peanut butter and spitting out the tablet. But the Cosequin soft chews are gone before you can say "taste it!"
Sophie clearly is loving this 30 day challenge and I can't thank our friends at Chewy enough for putting us on it! It was the extra push I needed as a Dog Mom to get my senior girl started on a joint supplement!
We'll check back for our final report in another couple of weeks, but in the meantime you can order Cosequin soft chews and other products at Chewy. They carry several options for both dogs and cats. Remember, 1-2 day shipping is always free on orders of $49 or more!
A few weeks ago we told you Sophie was starting a 30 Day Nutramax Cosequin Challenge with our friends at Chewy.
Well, here we are for our mid-way check in... and I'm pleased to report that Sophie is doing well and loves her Nutramax Cosequin DS plus MSM Soft Chews!
Sophie has been taking Cosequin daily and has no idea that it's really "medicine." She seems to know the Cosequin bag is her special bag of treats and actually seems to flaunt it to her brother and sister as if to say "these are mine... all mine... ha ha ha."
As soon as I grab the bag, she gets super excited, jumping up and down, waiting for her chew. I really need to get a video clip of her "Cosequin Dance," as it is quite the sight to see. And no, she does not dance like this for just any 'ole treat. Sure, she gets big eyes and excited for regular treats, but the dance is something special. Perhaps it's her way of singing "na-na na-na na-na" like a little kid in a school yard? Or maybe it's Sophie's special way of showing me the Cosequin is working? Knowing her, my money is on the singing...
Sophie's "special treats" play an important role in maintaining optimal joint function, and at 9 years old it seemed like a perfect time to get her started. Cosequin helps support cartilage production and protect existing cartilage from breakdown - important issues to watch for in senior dogs.
Did You Know?
Cosequin is the only glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate supplement that has been shown safe, effective, and bioavailable in peer-reviewed, published, controlled, U.S. veterinary studies.
I love the fact that Cosequin DS plus MSM Soft Chews provide a perfect combination of ingredients to keep my dog healthy. Instead of having to give 3 or 4 separate pills, Cosequin packs them all into one bite sized morsel.
Each Soft Chew contains:
- 600 mg Glucosamine Hydrochloride
- 400 mg MSM
- 300 mg Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate
I also love the fact that Cosequin soft chews are so easy and convenient to give to Sophie - and that she likes them! My old girl is the only dog I've met who will spit out those heartworm preventative "tasty" chews. If we're not careful, she'll even separate her new heartworm medicine from the peanut butter we pack it in.... gobbling up all the tasty peanut butter and spitting out the tablet. But the Cosequin soft chews are gone before you can say "taste it!"
Sophie clearly is loving this 30 day challenge and I can't thank our friends at Chewy enough for putting us on it! It was the extra push I needed as a Dog Mom to get my senior girl started on a joint supplement!
We'll check back for our final report in another couple of weeks, but in the meantime you can order Cosequin soft chews and other products at Chewy. They carry several options for both dogs and cats. Remember, 1-2 day shipping is always free on orders of $49 or more!
Thursday, December 17, 2015
#FROMM Low Fat, High Quality Dog Food + GIVEAWAY!
Disclosure: Fromm Family Foods sent dog treats and coupons for 2 free bags of dog food to Lapdog Creations, free of charge for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I may receive a few pennies to assist in maintaining this blog.
You may recall that Teutul was diagnosed with pancreatitis at the beginning of October. When we received the official diagnosis, I had many questions for our vet. Most importantly, I wanted to know what I could do to help prevent future pancreatic attacks.
The other big change was, of course, kibble. If you've ever been tasked with having to switch your pet's food for health or allergy reasons, you already know what a daunting task it is. Options are endless, and all brands are not created equal.
I learned quickly that good quality and low fat were nearly impossible to find in the same bag. It seemed as though when most companies cut back on fat, they also cut way back on the protein source. This often results in low fat food that has next to no protein, yet is high in carbs.... low fat junk food anyone? Not for my dog.
My endless hours of researching and reading countless ingredient labels resulted in what has become the perfect kibble for Teutul - Fromm Gold Coast Grain Free Weight Management 4lb
I decided that Fromm Family Foods was the company we would go with, but I wasn't certain which formula would be the best fit. There were two that I was considering when I reached out to the company in hopes of finding some guidance, and possibly a sample or two. I was blown away by the customer service I received. Not only did they answer my endless questions and help guide me in finding just the right formula, but they offered to send us some coupons for a couple of free bags for review (as well as some treats and other goodies)!
Did You Know?
The Gold Coast Weight Management formula that we ultimately settled on wasn't even on my radar, as it is one of Fromm's newer additions. At just 10% fat, it still has 25% protein and 7% fiber! Plus, the protein source is fish, which I thought would make Tut's switch a little easier given that his previous kibble was also fish based.
Gold Coast Weight Management is a grain-free ocean fish recipe formulated for weight reduction or maintenance... or, as in Tut's case, we've found it to be a perfect solution for a dog with pancreatitis (you should consult with your vet for your specific dog's needs).
Wild caught whitefish and salmon are combined with lentils, peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes and more. If your dog is in need of a low fat food, but fish isn't their thing, take a look at Fromm's original Weight Management Gold which is a special blend of turkey liver, duck, chicken and lamb.
We began the great kibble switch (that should be a new reality show on Animal Planet!) in mid-October and I'm happy to report, it was a painless process for Tut and his humans. He immediately gobbled it up and after two full months, I can attest to the fact that my boy loves Gold Coast Weight Management! If I had to put money on it, I'd say he even loves it more than his old kibble.
With that being said, let's keep the whole "low fat" thing between us humans. Just as Tut thinks blueberries and carrots are awesome human treats, my happy old hound has absolutely no idea that he's eating "diet" food! After all, we simply refer to it as "Fromm Yummies" in our house... no need to use those W and M words!
In addition to his delicious new kibble, Tut has also become a huge fan of Fromm Four Star Nutritionals treats. He's even sharing them with his sisters.
With recipes like Chicken with Carrots & Peas (Tut's favorite), Salmon with Sweet Potato and Lamb with Cranberry, there's something to please every dog's palate. And with a crude fat level of just 5%, they are all suitable for Tut's new diet. The Fromm line also includes a couple of even lower fat treats, including Low Fat Cranberry Liver and Low Fat Liver, both having a crude fat level of just 2%.
Tut thinks every dog should have a bag (or two) of Fromm treats in their stocking this year and who could argue with this face?
Before Teutul's low fat journey even began, I had heard nothing but amazing things about the company and its products. Their reputation is amazing in an industry that has been riddled with recalls in recent years (to my knowledge Fromm has never had a recall).
Their amazing customer service has left me wanting to shout the Fromm name from rooftops and tell everyone I know that not only is their product amazing, but the people that work for them are too (it's a good thing I have a blog to help me do that)! They truly went above and beyond to help us in Tut's journey and I can't thank them enough.
If you are looking to switch your pet's current food, definitely take a look at Fromm Family Foods. You will not be disappointed.
Connect With Fromm Family Foods: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram
GIVEAWAY!
Thanks to the wonderful folks at Fromm Family Foods, one lucky winner will get a free large bag of Fromm dog or cat food of their choice (Classic, Gold or Four-Star)!
Winner must be in the USA or Canada. Fromm will send a voucher to the winner, which can be redeemed at any brick and mortar pet food retailer who carries Fromm (use the store locator to find one near you).
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. The first method of entry is to answer a question in the comments on this post - click on the Rafflecopter first to find out what that question is before leaving your comment.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
You may recall that Teutul was diagnosed with pancreatitis at the beginning of October. When we received the official diagnosis, I had many questions for our vet. Most importantly, I wanted to know what I could do to help prevent future pancreatic attacks.
I learned that a low fat diet was key, and Teutul's humans had to rethink everything he eats - including treats. Gone were my boy's happy-go-lucky days of enjoying a bite of cheese while Daddy was making his lunch, giving our dinner dishes a pre-wash, and licking out ice cream bowls. Fortunately Tut enjoys most fruits and veggies, so we can still share some of our "treats" with him. He's none the wiser that instead of a piece of ham or steak, he's enjoying a healthy strawberry or green bean instead. My boy is just happy his humans are "sharing."
The other big change was, of course, kibble. If you've ever been tasked with having to switch your pet's food for health or allergy reasons, you already know what a daunting task it is. Options are endless, and all brands are not created equal.
I learned quickly that good quality and low fat were nearly impossible to find in the same bag. It seemed as though when most companies cut back on fat, they also cut way back on the protein source. This often results in low fat food that has next to no protein, yet is high in carbs.... low fat junk food anyone? Not for my dog.
My endless hours of researching and reading countless ingredient labels resulted in what has become the perfect kibble for Teutul - Fromm Gold Coast Grain Free Weight Management 4lb
I decided that Fromm Family Foods was the company we would go with, but I wasn't certain which formula would be the best fit. There were two that I was considering when I reached out to the company in hopes of finding some guidance, and possibly a sample or two. I was blown away by the customer service I received. Not only did they answer my endless questions and help guide me in finding just the right formula, but they offered to send us some coupons for a couple of free bags for review (as well as some treats and other goodies)!
Did You Know?
- Fromm is a fifth generation family-owned and operated artisan pet food company based in Wisconsin. All products are made in the USA, in their own manufacturing plants.
- Fromm built their first manufacturing plant in Mequon, Wisconsin in 1925. The plant is still in operation today and serves as the primary research & development area for new foods and treats.
- In the 1940's, Fromm pioneered the process of cooking meat and grain together to produce the first all-granular pet food. The first bag of "Fromm Complete Dog Meal" was sold in 1949.
- Fromm pioneered the use of mixed tocopherols as a natural preservative in pet foods in the 1980's. Mixed tocopherols remain the most popular natural preservative in pet food today.
- You can read the entire history of Fromm Family Foods here (spoiler alert: it's very interesting and includes some rather significant accomplishments in the pet world)
The Gold Coast Weight Management formula that we ultimately settled on wasn't even on my radar, as it is one of Fromm's newer additions. At just 10% fat, it still has 25% protein and 7% fiber! Plus, the protein source is fish, which I thought would make Tut's switch a little easier given that his previous kibble was also fish based.
Fromm Gold - A holistic approach to complete and balanced nutrition for each life stage and lifestyle.
Gold Coast Weight Management is a grain-free ocean fish recipe formulated for weight reduction or maintenance... or, as in Tut's case, we've found it to be a perfect solution for a dog with pancreatitis (you should consult with your vet for your specific dog's needs). Wild caught whitefish and salmon are combined with lentils, peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes and more. If your dog is in need of a low fat food, but fish isn't their thing, take a look at Fromm's original Weight Management Gold which is a special blend of turkey liver, duck, chicken and lamb.
We began the great kibble switch (that should be a new reality show on Animal Planet!) in mid-October and I'm happy to report, it was a painless process for Tut and his humans. He immediately gobbled it up and after two full months, I can attest to the fact that my boy loves Gold Coast Weight Management! If I had to put money on it, I'd say he even loves it more than his old kibble.
With that being said, let's keep the whole "low fat" thing between us humans. Just as Tut thinks blueberries and carrots are awesome human treats, my happy old hound has absolutely no idea that he's eating "diet" food! After all, we simply refer to it as "Fromm Yummies" in our house... no need to use those W and M words!
In addition to his delicious new kibble, Tut has also become a huge fan of Fromm Four Star Nutritionals treats. He's even sharing them with his sisters.
With recipes like Chicken with Carrots & Peas (Tut's favorite), Salmon with Sweet Potato and Lamb with Cranberry, there's something to please every dog's palate. And with a crude fat level of just 5%, they are all suitable for Tut's new diet. The Fromm line also includes a couple of even lower fat treats, including Low Fat Cranberry Liver and Low Fat Liver, both having a crude fat level of just 2%.
Tut thinks every dog should have a bag (or two) of Fromm treats in their stocking this year and who could argue with this face?
Fromm Family Foods gets all paws and
thumbs up from the Lapdog household!
Before Teutul's low fat journey even began, I had heard nothing but amazing things about the company and its products. Their reputation is amazing in an industry that has been riddled with recalls in recent years (to my knowledge Fromm has never had a recall).
Their amazing customer service has left me wanting to shout the Fromm name from rooftops and tell everyone I know that not only is their product amazing, but the people that work for them are too (it's a good thing I have a blog to help me do that)! They truly went above and beyond to help us in Tut's journey and I can't thank them enough.
If you are looking to switch your pet's current food, definitely take a look at Fromm Family Foods. You will not be disappointed.
Connect With Fromm Family Foods: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram
GIVEAWAY!
Thanks to the wonderful folks at Fromm Family Foods, one lucky winner will get a free large bag of Fromm dog or cat food of their choice (Classic, Gold or Four-Star)!
Winner must be in the USA or Canada. Fromm will send a voucher to the winner, which can be redeemed at any brick and mortar pet food retailer who carries Fromm (use the store locator to find one near you).
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. The first method of entry is to answer a question in the comments on this post - click on the Rafflecopter first to find out what that question is before leaving your comment.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Learn about #FROMM Low Fat High Quality Dog Food + enter to win #dogfood or #catfood #GIVEAWAY https://t.co/2AQE3rc0Wc @frommfamily #petfood
— Nichole Burke (@LapdogCreations) December 17, 2015
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Wordless Wednesday: Little Blue Men
Time to get wordless...
Shh... don't tell the Lapdogs, but the humans snuck away for a couple of hours on Saturday night to visit with some not-so-little blue men... and women. We took in a performance of Cirque du Soleil's brand new show, Toruk - The First Flight.
Being a huge Cirque fan, I have to be honest and say this was my least favorite of the countless shows I've seen. The visuals, effects and scenery were amazing, but Toruk is more of a story/play and features less of the amazing one-of-a-kind Cirque acts that we're used to. I'm definitely glad we went, but it's not one I would choose to go see again. Besides, we were front row for this performance and it would be hard to top that...
Shh... don't tell the Lapdogs, but the humans snuck away for a couple of hours on Saturday night to visit with some not-so-little blue men... and women. We took in a performance of Cirque du Soleil's brand new show, Toruk - The First Flight.
Being a huge Cirque fan, I have to be honest and say this was my least favorite of the countless shows I've seen. The visuals, effects and scenery were amazing, but Toruk is more of a story/play and features less of the amazing one-of-a-kind Cirque acts that we're used to. I'm definitely glad we went, but it's not one I would choose to go see again. Besides, we were front row for this performance and it would be hard to top that...
If you missed our DOG for DOG review on Monday, Penny wanted to make sure you hop back and read all about this amazing company!
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