GrouchyPuppy® Blog | Dog Lovers Source

Christmas Dogs: Our First Holiday Photo

Tis the season to share our first Christmas photo with our dog. What were we thinking, putting that tree shirt around her neck?

Help Homeless Pets During the Holidays Ensure Against Coal in Your Stocking

Why is fostering so important -- especially during the holidays? (besides avoiding the lump of coal)

Fostering a dog can be a gift. I'm a huge proponent of pet fostering, and was the first foster blogger for the Helen Woodward Animal Center. Since our own dog has moved into her golden years, we are more sensitive to the beauty and joy of having a senior dog in the home.

In a family setting, caring for an older dog teaches children that end of life issues can be uplifting while still poignant. As adults with aging parents, caring for a senior dog has its own similarities and may actually help us Baby Boomers work through the many difficult emotions we face.

During the holidays, if you foster a pet, not only do you get the gift of a warm and appreciative dog to share in the festivities, but you'll be that much closer to earning those wings Clarence was talking about in It's A Wonderful Life.

When They Have a Dog: Hostess Gifts and Holiday Tips

Tis the season for holiday parties, family get togethers and hostess gifts. Are you like me and have friends with dogs? Does your boss have a beloved pooch?

Depending on your time, talents and budget, these gift ideas can range from a homemade bag of dog treats or an ornament, to a fancy weekend sleepover at a Wag Hotel - Here are my ten favorite gifts to give for any occasion:

• Reflective collar or vest for evening or late night walks - It's cold and dark outside. A simple reflective collar to slip over an existing collar is something us dog folks always need.
• Dog Treats - Are you a baker? Try these dog treat recipes No time? Have you seen Canine Confections all natural dog treats? They are creative, beautifully boxed and delicious!
  
  
  
  
  
• Dog DNA Test Kit - For many with blended dogs, we can only guess what our beloved is made of, besides sugar and spice (and in Cleo's case, kids believe she is part wolf.) Wisdom Panel Insights is one of several kits that just might solve the mystery. 
• Dog Ornament - Many online sites offer easy ways to create a customized ornament. Add a photo, their name and the year, and you've a sweet personal gift.

Ornament by Grouchy Puppy

What kind of dog loves a bath?

Our dog Cleo clearly doesn't have the gene that causes love, or relaxation, around bath time. Whether we're using a tub full of warm water, or an outdoor hose with warm water and towels - she becomes donkey-like in her resistance.

..unlike this dog [...]

Happy Laughing Nut Day

Did we say laughing nut or should it be a happy mutt? Cleo and her gang at Grouchy Puppy wishes everyone a very Happy National Mutt Day!

10 Things I Love About My Dog

There are many things I love about my dog. One thing that I love, is her capacity to give. She fearlessly gives her affection to other people, dogs, to strangers we meet on our walks. Since the day we brought her home, she has influenced us in a positive way. But [...]