Since we brought our fur ball home, we've been introduced to a whole new world: the dog world. My new favorite things have to do with dogs and things to do at home. Not shocking since we've been spending quite a bit of time at home...that's not really dog related, but more pandemic related. We've learned a lot in our two weeks of dog ownership. The biggest surprise for me is how much like a baby AND a toddler a puppy is. I feel it's like shadowing a toddler who won't listen, as I constantly say things like, "no bite!" "Leave it!" "stay there!" "Good job going potty! Yay!!"
Anyways, here's my list of things we've been loving. If you have any recommendations please share!
1.) We managed to teach Zeus his name and sit within a few days with Zuke's salmon treats. We're working on potty training, walking on a leash, and 'leave it' now. The treats come in handy.
2.) Hot days at home call for a sprinkler. The minis got this one for their birthday's. Kids and dog alike love this one.
3.) Also a birthday gift is the mini trampoline. The kids have a blast just jumping on it (one at a time). It's small and easily stored. How does a puppy fit into this one, you ask? Ah, yes, he likes to lay under it when no one is jumping.
4.) Since nearly all public pools are closed for the season, we've hit up local lake beaches. They're by far not my favorite, but they're something. Since we anticipate spending quite a bit of time at the beaches, we purchased a beach umbrella. It was great this past weekend when our all black puppy was ready to get out of the sun while the kids played in the water. Next time I may set it up halfway in the water, so I can cool off too!
5.) I didn't realize how important fish oil is for dogs (at least for labs). I quickly purchased a pump bottle of salmon oil. After price comparing several places, Amazon was by far the cheapest and best place to purchase.
6.) My bleach cleaner recipe is getting a work out since daycare fully re-opened after the shutdown. We use Nature's Miracle for cat pukes and doggie accidents (it works great!), but the bleach cleaner is used on all surfaces. Here is the recipe I've used for the past several years to help during cold and flu season especially.
7.) A good game on the cell phone to pass the time while the puppy learns to use the yard is much needed. I downloaded Word Tiles and have played it at 4 a.m., 2 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. Basically, you can play it anytime, anywhere.
8.) We started to watch Homeland while we were up on puppy duty. We haven't made it past the first season because kids + dog = takes forever to finish things, but it is great!
9.) Quick and easy dinners have always been a must for us, but especially the last couple of weeks. We've been relying a lot on GrubHub and sheet pan dinners.
10.) After a few rounds of bad blisters and a round of cellulitis in my small toe, I opted for new hiking shoes. Ironically, I haven't worn them hiking yet because it's rather difficult to hike with a puppy who doesn't know how to go on a walk yet, but I wore them on our beach outing and around the house. The Merrell Trail Gloves are amazingly comfortable with no breaking in required. I'm in love. They'll be perfect for summer hiking, but I'll definitely have to get a new pair of hiking boots for fall, winter, and spring.
11.) My new favorite drinks is Corona Refresca. Delicious plus how appropriate that it's Corona--the whole reason we're home so much anyways!