11th Week of Summer: Throw a Party

Labor Day is the symbolic end to summer, the kick-off to football season, and the start of a new school year. But why do we celebrate Labor Day? 

Labor Day is celebrated in honor of the economic and social contribution of workers.  It’s a national holiday that recognizes all the work you do and the contributions you make to society.  In other words, it’s your day to relax and enjoy life.

Most holiday weekends, one might try to get away, but sometime you just can’t.  If you can’t get away this Labor Day, why not throw a dog-friendly get-together?

You are cordially invited….

Who:

You can invite any one you like, whether they have a dog or not.  For those without a dog, make sure they are comfortable around dogs.  For those with a dog, make sure their pup is dog and people friendly before inviting them.

What: 

This party doesn’t have to be a big production.  In fact, most the attention will be on the dogs so you don’t need any decorations, fancy outfits, or party favors.  Keep the food simple (and dog themed if you like) with hotdogs and chips. Or do a pot luck and ask everyone to bring an item to feed 10 people (or less, if your group is smaller).  Don’t forget plates, plastic ware, napkins, cups, and a couple of trash bags.

When:

While you could throw a Labor Day party whenever you like, it would make the most sense to throw one sometime during the Labor Day weekend.

Where: 

Of course, your home would be the first place that comes to mind, but if your place is too small or you don’t think having a bunch of dogs there is a good idea, you can always host your friends and family at a local park or even at the dog beach.  Just keep in mind that it’s a holiday weekend, so you’ll want to get there early to reserve a spot.

In addition, you can make a special treat for the pups to enjoy.  You could make a pup-tini, baked biscuits, or frozen pup pop for them.  There are countless easy-to-make dog treat recipes available online, that you could whip up the day before. (For frozen treat ideas, check out last week’s article listed below). Just be sure you let the other pet parents know the ingredients before you serve them.  Some dogs may have a food allergy or sensitive stomach and will not be able to partake.

And lastly, if you do plan on being outside that day, be sure to bring sunblock for everyone (dogs too if needed), plenty of water for the pups, and a blanket and chair to sit on.  Have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend; you deserve it!

10th Week of Summer: Cool Down with Homemade Pup Pops

August is always the hottest month of summer.  And just when we look for relief in fall, most times it doesn’t come until the end of October.  Here are some cool treats you and your pup can make together to help beat the heat until winter.

Enjoy one last summer ice cream cone with your pup.  He’s bound to love this Peanut Butter and Carob Swirl.

Ingredients:   32 oz plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat); 1 cup natural peanut butter; and ½ cup carob chips

Instructions: 

1. Divide the yogurt evenly into a 6 cup muffin pan. 

2. Pour the peanut butter into a small bowl. 

3. Melt the carob chips gradually in the microwave in a microwave safe bowl. Stir every 15-30 seconds.

4. Pour the melted carob into the peanut butter. Stir until combined.

5. Place a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture on top of the yogurt in each cup of the muffin pan.

6. Using a toothpick, gently stir or swirl the peanut butter with the yogurt.

7. Freeze until solid, then let your pup enjoy a cup at a time!

 
These homemade cold dog treats will last about 2 months in the freezer.  If you don’t want your dog to eat them all within 2 months, feel free to share them with other dog owners.

 

September

Back-to-school time calls for a good ol’ fashion PB & J sandwich. And now Fido can enjoy a similar treat too with this Peanut Butter and Jelly Frozen Smoothie Pops recipe.

Ingredients:  4 cups plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat); 1 ripe banana; 1 cup of blueberries; 3 tbsp natural peanut butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Stir all of the ingredients together in a medium bowl.

2. Pour into a blender and puree until smooth.

3. Pour the smoothie into an ice cube tray(s) and freeze.

If you’re using a ½ inch ice cube tray, this recipe will yield about 32 treats. These homemade dog treats will last 6 months or more in the freezer.  And while this recipe maybe a little tart for humans, you can add some sugar or honey to taste and enjoy the same treat as your pup.  

 

October

Even though the heat will most likely still be with us in October, we can cool down with a fall inspired frozen treat, Pumpkin Pops.

Ingredients: 1 (1 oz) Natural Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 cup milk (low-fat or fat free); 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

Instructions:  

1. Whisk the vanilla pudding mix, pumpkin pie spice, and milk together until dissolved. (Approximately 2 minutes).

2. Fold, or gently stir in the pumpkin puree.

3. Scoop the pumpkin pudding into small paper cups, small plastic cups, or a plastic popsicle mold.

4. Place them in the freezer and let them freeze completely (about 3 hours).

5. Before serving, let it sit on the counter for 5 minutes. Then release from the mold and serve.

These homemade dog treats will last for 3 months in the freezer.  You can also keep them in the refrigerator as a pudding, but it will only stay fresh for 1 week.

 

These recipes and more are available on dogtreatkitchen.com. You can also buy and download their Easy Dog Treat Recipe Book for even more great dog treat recipes all year long.  

9th Week of Summer: Help an Animal in Need

It is said that charity will make your heart feel lighter.  Booker T. Washington said, “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.”  John Holmes said, “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” And John Bunyan said, “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”   So this week, why not lift your spirit and your dog’s spirit by helping another in need.

August 17^th is International Homeless Animals’ Day, which seems like an appropriate time to help an animal in need.  What is it, you may ask?  In 1992, ISAR (International Society for Animal Rights) originated the idea that every year on the third Saturday of August, concerned citizens should come together to commemorate all the animals who lost their lives the previous year because there weren’t enough homes for them.  Activities held in honor of this day usually entail a community candlelight vigil while some organizations hold spay and neuter fundraisers, rallies, or even walks, to help raise awareness.

You and your pup can get involved too. Even though you may not have the time or resources to put on a community event, you can help in other ways, like helping your local animal shelter care for the hundreds of animals they currently have.   Every animal shelter has a ‘Wish List’ of supplies they are always in need of.  While some shelters may have very specific wants (such as specific food, treats, litter, or bed types) here is a list of some of the typical supplies needed by an animal shelter: 

·         Litter

·         Brushes or Combs for Cats and Dogs

·         Shampoo & Conditioner

·         Nylabones

·         Durable Toys (like Kong toys)

·         Cat & Dog Treats

·         Cat & Dog Food

·         Hot dogs

·         Chicken broth

·         Timothy Hay

·         New & Used Blankets

·         Small Animal Woodchips or Bedding

·         Cat Scratchers

·         Cat Toys

·         New or Used Towels

·         Slip leads

·         Food & Water Dishes

·         Newspaper

·         Bleach

·         Etc.

Look up the nearest animal shelter in your area to find out their specific needs.  And don’t feel like you have to go out and purchase these items or give away everything in your house.  You can ask neighbors, family, and friends if they have any of these items that they wouldn’t mind donating.  You and your pooch can go around making collections and drop-off the donations together.

Shelters are also in need of volunteers, so if you’re too shy to ask for donations, you could volunteer your time instead.  You can also help your community but participating in Trap-Neuter- Release (TNR) programs. These types of programs humanely catch feral cats, spay or neuter them, vaccinate them against rabies and then return them to live out their lives.  This has been shown to be the least costly, as well as the most efficient and humane way of stabilizing feral cat populations.  You can help by alerting your local animal shelter of the location of feral cats in your neighborhood. 

And one more way you can help a homeless animal is by spreading the word.  Share the importance of spaying and neutering pets to help reduce pet overpopulation and resulting euthanization.  Help find a homeless animal a new forever home by sharing a local shelter’s dog or cat of the week via e-mail or social network posts.  Become a fan of an animal shelter Facebook page or follow them on Twitter to be sure to get the latest updates and great information to help better the animal community. 

However you decide to get involved this week, remember this quote from Mother Teresa, “Charity and love are the same -- with charity you give love, so don't just give money but reach out your hand instead.”

8th Week of Summer: Go for a Walk

 

This week take the opportunity to join in the camaraderie of the dog community.  Interact with other dog lovers and dogs by walking through an outdoor farmers market or by walking for a cure.

Dog Days of Fullerton

 
The Fullerton Market is a favorite among locals, and rightly so.  Operating weekly, the market offers fresh produce, prepared foods, arts and crafts, jewelry, novelty and gift items, live entertainment, kid’s activities, and a beer garden.  

This Thursday, August 8^th, you and your dog can experience the renowned market for yourself as the Fullerton Museum Center Association hosts Dog Days at the Fullerton Market.

Dog Days at the Fullerton Market is a great opportunity to not only get a taste of the Fullerton but to join in the local fun with other dog owners. This special dog market will feature many dog-related vendors and activities to make sure you and your dog have a good time.   

The fun takes place this Thursday, August 8^th, 2013 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Downtown Fullerton Plaza located at 125 E. Wilshire Ave., in Fullerton.   

You and your pup can give back to the community and help those in need simply by going for a walk.  Yes, it’s as easy as that.  So get the leash, the poop bags, and some water for you both and head out to Fountain Valley this weekend to participate in the “Bark for Life” walk for cancer. 
 
Bark for Life of Orange County

The annual Bark for Life of Orange County will be held this Sunday, August 11^th from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Fountain Valley Recreation Center & Sport Park located at 16400 Brookhurst Street in Fountain Valley.

“The American Cancer Society Bark For Life^TM is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer.” –RelayforLife.org

·         Approximately 1 out of every 3 women in the U.S. will develop cancer in their lifetime.

·         Almost 1 of every 2 men in the U.S. will develop cancer in their lifetime.

·         1 out of every 9 dogs in the U.S. dies of cancer each year.

·         Cancer is the 2^nd leading cause of death in the U.S., exceeded only by heart disease.

 
By supporting or participating in Bark for Life, you help the American Cancer Society raise much-needed funds and awareness to help save lives and reach their ultimate goal, which is to “create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.”  If you were to donate to the American Cancer Society you would be providing support to cancer patients and their families in the community.  With the proper funding, the American Cancer Society will be able to offer a broad range of essential programs and services at no cost to the recipient. To donate, log on to the Bark for Life website.

The Bark for Life welcomes dogs from all walks of life to join in the fight against cancer.  Online pre-registration (before August 9th) is $25 per dog. After August 9th, it will be $30 per dog.  Day of registration and check-in begins at 9 a.m. and the event kicks off with the walk at 10 a.m. 

There is lots to do and see after the walk as well, such as a peanut butter eating contest, bobbing for tennis balls, largest and smallest dog contest, and an agility course from Zoom Room Huntington Beach.  There will also be a silent auction, pet-related vendors, food, adoptions, and more!  On top of all of that, you won’t want to miss the special guest, New York Times Best Selling Author of "The Dog Lived and So Will I". 

Participating in this event is a great way to support a good cause while bonding with your best friend.  For more information, or to pre-register your dog, log on to the Bark for Life website.

7th Week of Summer: Let's Hit the Beach

 

Have you ever gone an entire summer without visiting the beach?  As a native Californian you know that it’s possible to take the beach for granted.  But with the coast so close, and with the days getting hotter, it would be a crying shame not to take a little time to cool off at the beach before summer is over.  So this weekend, give yourself a break from the hustle and bustle of life and go relax on the beach with your dog.

Catch Some Rays at the Huntington Dog Beach…

One of the best places for a dog to be a dog is romping through the sand and splashing in the water at the Huntington Dog Beach.  Even if your dog doesn’t like the water, playing on the sand is a better workout for him then walking on concrete.  The dog beach can be found at the very end of Goldenwest Street in Huntington Beach (around lifeguard tower 24).  The dog beach stretches from Goldenwest Street to Seapoint Street (to the right of Goldenwest when facing the beach from PCH).  There is metered parking along PCH or free parking one to five blocks inland, among the homes.  Check out the Huntington Dog Beach website for a list of beach rules and other FAQs.  Don’t forget to bring poop bags, a towel, fresh water for your dog, and sunblock if your dog requires it.  If it is your dog’s first time at the beach don’t be afraid to take it slow.  You want his first experience to be positive so you can come back again. 

Stop for a Bite at the Park Bench Café…

After a good run at the beach, your pup should be tired.  A tired dog is a good dog so it’s the perfect time to stop in at the Park Bench Café for a bite to eat.  Located at 17732 Goldenwest Street, in Huntington Beach, the Park Bench Café is a one of a kind stop for dog lovers who want to enjoy food and the beautiful outdoors with their four-legged friends.  After you order one of their delicious menu items for yourself, be sure to get something for your dog off the dog menu.  Your pooch can get a hot dog (without the bun), chicken, ground beef, bacon, lean ground turkey, and even eggs.  Check out the Park Bench Café website for a complete menu and list of dog rules to make sure your first visit there goes smoothly.  And if you have the energy after eating, you and your pup can saunter around the beautiful surrounding park before heading home.

Or Try Something New…

While the dog beach is a great treat for your four legged friend, sometimes you just want to switch things up.  Why not try a new beach, like Balboa Pier in Newport Beach.  Just south of Huntington Beach, Newport Beach has two piers, the second being Balboa Pier on the Balboa Peninsula.  This area offers a more laid back scene where you can fish from the pier, people watching, and enjoy a bite to eat at Ruby’s Diner while looking out over the ocean.  The pier isn’t the only thing to check out either.  Simply go inland to watch boats come and go in the Newport Bay or hop on the ferry and cruise over Balboa Island for a stroll.  This is a great way to enjoy the beach without getting sandy or wet, and your pup is sure to enjoy going on this new adventure with you.

 

6th Week of Summer: A Night in Hollywood

Looking for a new and slightly unusual way to send your Friday night?  How about a night with your pup watching live wrestling while enjoying the taste of Hollywood from a local food truck?

This Friday night, July 26^th, you and your pup are invited to the parking lot at 11458 Burbank Blvd. in Hollywood to experience the NoHo Dine-Out Friday Nights.  With food trucks and musicians a regular Friday night feature, this dine-out Friday adds a little extra flare with wrestling brought to you by Knokx Pro.  The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. Parking is on the street and admission is free.  Just be sure to bring a lawn chair to sit on.

If food trucks and wrestling are not your forte, but visiting Hollywood sounds like a fun little trip, you can make a day of it strolling down the Hollywood Walk of Fame with your pooch.  While there, you can also visit the TLC (formerly Grauman’s) Chinese Theatre where you and your pup can size up your feet, hands, and paws with the stars.   Afterward, grab a bite to eat on the patio of a dog-friendly restaurant.  Cat &Fiddle, Comedy Store, Irv’s Burgers, Joey’s Café, Mel’s Drive-in, and Toast Bakery Café are all dog-friendly restaurants in the Hollywood area.  Indulge your taste buds and make a day of it with your pup.  He or she is sure to enjoy all the new sites and smells…well most of them anyway.  

5th Week of Summer: A Concert in the Park

Trying to catch a break from this heat? With summer in full swing, it’s hard to keep cool during the day, which makes you want to stay inside. But there is an upside to these hot days, which are those perfect summer nights. 

If it’s too hot to enjoy the day with your pup, spend an evening with him or her instead.  Most cities have summer concert series in the park as well as a few family movie nights.  Not all music line ups are the same.  From classical to classic rock, country and more; you and your pup are bound to find music that you enjoy.

Nearly every city in SoCal has a summer concert series from now through August.  Buena Park, Corona, Fullerton, Huntington Beach ,Newport Beach, Orange, Riverside, and Tustin (just to name a few) have concerts on various nights of the week (though most are on the weekends) and admission is free.  Rockin’ at Dos Lagos summer concert series (in Corona) has a promotion where if you spend $20 or more at The Shops at Dos Lagos on the day of the concert you will receive 2 VIP seats.  VIP seating is limited so be sure to check in at customer service booth starting at 5p.m. to ensure you get your seat.

When you go, don’t forget a blanket and or lawn chair for you and your pup to sit on.  And most importantly, don’t forget your petiquette while enjoying the concert.  Remind your pup to be on his best doggy behavior at all times.  Keep him on his leash, be sure to pick up any messes he leaves, and bring plenty of fresh water for him.  

If you are wondering if your city has a summer concert series, check your city’s website for upcoming events.  If your city doesn’t offer any concerts, consider visiting a neighboring city or taking a field trip to a completely different area.  If you have children and would prefer to go to a movie in the park instead, check your city’s website for those options.