Tag Archives: pets

Nov8

Aivituvin Rabbit Hutch Review

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Aivituvin Rabbit Hutch Review

Hello!! Before welcoming my sweet bunny babies, Mel and Penelope, into our home, the thing that I had the most difficulty with was selecting a hutch. It seemed like every single rabbit hutch that I saw online had some great reviews, while others commented with glaring issues. After a lot of back and forth between several hutches, I finally settled on one by Aivituvin and I have no complaints so far. I don’t think Mel and Penelope do, either! Check it out:

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^^^ Don’t mind their mess lol the bunnies are always flinging their bedding!

What attracted me the most to this hutch, other than it being freaking adorable was its size. This hutch was, easily, one of the biggest ones available on Amazon and it was also a fair price minus the expensive shipping rate. While Johnny and I have the bunnies out in the morning and most of the evening, I wanted something big enough for them to be comfortable and have their own spaces. Mel loves hiding out in the top portion of the hutch and you can usually find Penelope chilling directly beneath him on the first floor. When they are not out of their hutch, Johnny and I can hear them running amuck constantly and I am thrilled that they are able to do that. Both bunnies are especially partial to going up and down the bridge too. 🙂

Of course, not all hutches are going to please every single owner and pet and there were some reviews that definitely made me nervous. For example, lots of people said that their bunnies were chewing the hutch up and, luckily, Mel and Penelope have not shown any interest in doing that at all. I have several chew toys and other toys to keep them occupied in the hutch that they play with a lot and I almost wonder if some of the bunnies were chewing at their cage out of sheer boredom.

The only complaint that I do agree with from some of the reviewers is how the bedding gets stuck in the cracks of the pull out trays. Johnny and I experienced this the first time we cleaned the cage and it made it really difficult to pull them out to clean. This is more of an annoyance than anything, though, and we were still able to fully clean the cage. It just took a little extra time and innovation to be able to remove the soiled bedding from the hard to reach areas.

Overall, I am very happy with the Aivituvin hutch and I know that Mel and Penelope are too. It took Johnny less than an hour to assemble and it is sturdy and spacious. If you are considering this hutch, I say go for it – I think your fur babies are going to love it!

What kind of hutch do you have for your rabbits? What are some of your small pet’s favorite toys? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov7

Pet Parent Lyfe

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Pet Parent Lyfe

Hello! It has been one week since Johnny and I brought home our sweet lionhead bunnies, Penelope and Mel, and pet parent lyfe has been treating us fantastically so far. When it was just me and my husband at home, our apartment felt complete. However, now that we have two little fur babies scampering around, our apartment feels so much fuller and a whole lot more adorable:

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Johnny and I both grew up in animal loving households and our families always had pet dogs. I also had a guinea pig and parakeets way back when too. We have been without a pet of our own for several years and I think we were both taken aback by how awesome it has been since the bunnies have been home. Johnny and I both marvel at the fact that we have these little babies greeting us when we wake up in the morning and come home from work. It is also a hoot to hear them running around at night when we are trying to sleep. I have fallen into the habit of saying “settle down, kids” every time it’s bedtime and they are playing away!

The best part of our days now that we have Penelope and Mel is, easily, when we take them out of their hutch, which we do several times throughout the day. Whether it’s just to give them a cuddle or have them frolic in their playpen, it is so nice to have these tangible little bitties that depend on us. Johnny is also very pleased that he now has an audience whenever he plays the banjo! While Miss Penelope is super chill, Mel is constantly on the go and has a love for nibbling on anything and everything – including mine and Johnny’s booties when we’re in the playpen lol… he crazy. 😀

Every morning, I wake up genuinely excited to rush downstairs and begin their morning care routine. This includes fresh water, food, veggies, bedding, and a quick jaunt in the playpen before I leave for work. Johnny, on the other hand, is always eager to get home to our lil buddies in the early afternoon and takes them out immediately to play. Then, when I get home a little later, we have them out for the evening. It is an absolute blast!

With all of the stress and craziness currently happening for me, it is so comforting to have Penelope and Mel. We both can’t picture our apartment without them and it has only been one short week. Pet Parent Lyfe is suiting us very well, indeed, and Penelope and Mel are already more loved than words can say! ❤

Do you have a pet? What is your favorite thing about being a pet parent? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov6

Introducing: Mel & Penelope!

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Introducing: Mel & Penelope!

Hello!! After a lot of preparations, purchases, and research, Johnny and I finally welcomed home our sweet bunnies this past Tuesday. We adopted this mother and son duo named Penelope and Mel from a couple whose adopted bunny had a surprise litter. We are completely obsessed with our furry little children and it has been so much fun having the bonded pair raising a ruckus in our apartment. Check out these sweet angels – the white and brown one is Penelope and the little black one is her son, Mel:

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^^^ Lol, Penelope looks like such a loaf in that last one!

I have wanted pet rabbits for as long as I can remember and vowed to myself that I would get a pair when I moved into my old apartment. This never came to be, however, for a plethora of reasons. For example, there was a definite lack of space at chez moi as well as the fact that the temperature inside was always either stifling hot or unbearably cold. This was uncomfortable for a human let alone animals. And, after Johnny and all of his stuff moved in with me, there was officially no space to be found.

Fast forward to getting settled in our new apartment this past May and the possibility of having a pet was finally a real thing. We now have plenty of space, a functional AC unit, and a great heating system too. After spending some time enjoying our new digs together, I couldn’t think of any reason to not begin the search for a pair of bonded rabbits.

The work was slow going for a while and I, honestly, didn’t even have any supplies but was looking on PetFinder anyways lol. Then, my butt got kicked into high gear when my brother-in-law tagged me in a Facebook post that his neighbor made about looking for homes for their rabbits. I replied and that day, I had Penelope and Mel on hold for me and a hutch and endless Chewy orders on the way. All Johnny and I had to do was wait for everything to ship and get the hutch built. 😀

It felt like a lifetime of waiting until the scheduled date to pick our babies up and they are just as wonderful as we imagined. Penelope is a timid little thing and loves to be held. Her son, on the other hand, is so frisky and just wants to play, play, play! It is such a novelty to spend time in the evening with our pets rather than in front of the TV and we can’t get enough. Every morning, I can’t wait to take them out to play before I go to work and we both look forward to coming home in the afternoon to have them out for the evening. It is everything we ever wanted AND MORE! ❤

Going from petless to pet owners in under two weeks has been a whirlwind but we are so thankful to officially be bunny parents. Keep it posted on lifewithlilred for all of the Penelope and Mel cuteness!

Have you ever had pet rabbits? What are some of your best care tips? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct27

Getting A New Pet? Tasks To Complete Beforehand

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Getting A New Pet? Tasks To Complete Beforehand

Hello! Johnny and I will soon be bunny parents to the adorable Mel and Penelope. I can’t freaking wait! It has been a long while since I have had a pet that was truly my own and I almost forgot how much preparations had to be done beforehand. All of the following should be completed before you bring your pet home so you can both fully enjoy the experience:

Research:

You cannot go in blind for the care of a new pet so step one, most importantly, is doing your research. How long does your pet live for? What does it need to eat? Are there any health complications specific to your pet? Can you afford the extra expense? Will you have the time to spend with your pet? These are all necessary things to explore beforehand so you don’t find yourself in a situation down the road where you can’t adequately care for your pet. Having a firm understanding of everything that this new pet entails will best prepare you for providing the best care.

Doing your research will also help you when it comes to purchasing pet supplies…

Supply Shopping:

Much like the arrival of a new baby, you will have to do some stocking up on necessities before your pet comes home. I, for one, went freaking HAM on Chewy and Amazon and had an endless stream of boxes coming in daily for my bunnies. They are going to be so spoiled! These are just some of what you might need for any new pet:

  • Cage or pet bed for a comfortable place to sleep
  • Playpen for exercise
  • Pet food, food and water dishes, or a water bottle
  • Treats and toys
  • Fresh fruit and veggies
  • Cleaning supplies for cages, accidents, etc.

Find A Vet:

Animals need a doctor too and finding the right vet for you will assist in providing the best care for your pet. You can get recommendations from friends or online or continue on with a vet you have used before. Remember, you might have to find a vet outside of your immediate area if you are a pet parent to farm animals, reptiles, or various small animals.

Make A Pet Friendly Home:

Your home should provide adequate space for your pet to move about freely and safely. When you are doing your research, be sure you are looking into ways to pet-proof your place. This could include moving houseplants to a different area, securing electric cords, and keeping human food out of reach. Having a comfortable place that is conducive to your pet’s health and wellness should be a top priority.

A new pet is so exciting but it is a lot of work. I’m ready for it, though, and I can’t wait to bring my bunnies home!

Do you have a pet? How do you provide the best care for them? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct25

Hip Hop Hurray!

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Hip Hop Hurray!

Hello!! I have wanted pet bunnies for pretty much forever now and it just never worked out. My old apartment was small and that was before Johnny even moved in! Then, it was doubly cramped and the temperature was difficult to control. It was always either way too hot or way too cold, which was so uncomfortable for us let alone a pet.

Moving into our new apartment was a huge upgrade for Johnny and I. We have plenty of space, a functioning air conditioning unit, and windows that open. We are very well settled and happy and now seemed like the perfect time to finally welcome some bunnies into our home. So… we are! Meet Penelope (brown and white) and Mel Kenda (black and white):

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For the past month, I have been scouring PetFinder nonstop to find a pair of small rabbits. This was counterproductive because I didn’t even have any supplies or a hutch lol. After a while, I felt like I was just spinning my wheels and then my brother-in-law tagged me in a post on Facebook. His neighbor was looking for someone to adopt lionhead bunnies from a surprise litter after her and her partner adopted a rabbit from an auction that they didn’t know was pregnant.

My bunnies’ current parents are so wonderful and have been working diligently to get each rabbit spayed, neutered, and adopted to a good home. And, one of the homes is mine! The stars definitely aligned and within a day, I had a date to pick my new babies up and endless orders from Amazon and Chewy on the way. Johnny and I are just waiting on the hutch to arrive – I can’t wait!!

Also, can we just talk about how fantastic Chewy is really quick? The litter pan that I ordered was way too big and when I contacted their customer service they refunded my money, waived shipping for a smaller pan, and told me to donate the other one to an animal shelter. The new one arrived the same day and this interaction alone makes me a loyal customer. Highly recommend!

I am beyond thrilled to finally have rabbits of my own after daydreaming about it for so long. Keep it posted here on lifewithlilred to officially meet Penelope and Mel soon!

Have you had pet rabbits before? Do you have any advice for me? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Sep5

It Works If You Work Out

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It Works If You Work Out

Hello! I wouldn’t call myself the most physically active person on the entire planet. However, I feel like I’ve been getting in much better shape this summer and, I’ve gotta say, I feel GREAT! It also makes sitting on the couch after a long day that much more rewarding lol. We all need that sedentary time to recharge!

To start my day every morning but Sunday, I do one hundred and thirty push ups. This is something that I am very proud of because I could barely do twenty-five last April. I began incorporating this into my routine to help ease some of the pain in my upper body that I acquired when Johnny and I were in a car accident. I can’t say it helped in that regard but it did make me feel good to try something new.

What started with twenty-five would increase whenever I felt ready. It was a slow process and by August of last year, I could only do fifty. It was exciting to add even a few extra when I could, though. Within a year and a half, I added one hundred and five push ups to my morning routine. I do eighty in a row and rest, then I do fifty more. Although it’s tiring, my day just doesn’t feel right without it.

This summer, I also began working with a young man who loves to play outside. For two and a half hours per week we hike and play soccer and pickleball. When we first started working together, I literally thought I was going to keel over after our sessions. Fast forward to a few months later and I wish we had more time to enjoy the outdoors together!

One final thing that I’ve incorporated into my increasingly active lifestyle is several walks per day with the family dog, Archie. My parents currently have a lot going on and I wanted to make sure they didn’t have to worry about one extra thing. Almost every day of the week, I take Archie on two long walks/runs.

This all began last month and we start out at a run and then slow down to a walk when I need. Every day, I notice that I can keep running a little bit longer than I could before and it feels like a big achievement. I know that Archie loves it and I do too! It has brought our bond closer together and it keeps us both in tip top shape!

None of these improvements in my lifestyle happened over night. Some took over a year and others took several months and weeks. But, as I sat back and thought as I wrote this, it feels like a huge accomplishment. I can do so much more than I ever thought possible and it’s nice to look and feel my best!

What is your favorite form of exercise? Do you have a pet that helps keep you active? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug13

Ways To Help Out A Loved One In Need

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Ways To Help Out A Loved One In Need

Hello!! This past week has been an awful, stressful time for yours truly. And, let’s be honest, these past couple of years have been an awful, stressful time for everyone. COVID, losing your job, and inflation are enough to make anyone go crazy! In times like these, we all could use a helping hand and these are some of the things that I have been implementing in my own family over the past week and change:

Cook A Meal:

When a crisis arises, one of the last things that people think about is having a home cooked meal. There’s nothing wrong with takeout or fast food but nothing hits quite as much as a meal made with love! Someone struggling could really use a good meal so why not bring one over? You could provide all of the fixings for a spaghetti dinner, tacos, or any of their favorite dishes. A meal that has plenty of leftovers is also one that will be much appreciated.

Clean Up:

Another thing that falls by the wayside during difficult times is housework. We all know that a cluttered and unclean environment can make things even more stressful and it is so easy for all of the household chores to start piling up. You don’t have to give a Merry Maids level clean but doing the dishes, taking out the trash, or the dreaded cleaning of the bathrooms will give the person you’re helping one less thing to think about.

Pet Care:

Pets definitely know when something is up because it effects them too. Something as simple as taking the dog for a long walk, playing with the cats, or cleaning cages can be a huge help. You can also keep an eye on their supply of food and replenish it as needed so they will never go without.

Spend Some Time:

Someone going through a lot will surely benefit from just having you as company. You could lend your ear, be a shoulder to cry on, or simply be around and not talk at all. Things like watching a funny show, doing a puzzle, or playing a game can provide some much needed relief when their focus is shifted to something else for a bit.

From big gestures to small, all of it will be so very appreciated. Please keep my family in your thoughts. ❤

How do you provide a helping hand? What helps you to feel better? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug6

5 Things To Do Before Bringing A Dog Home

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5 Things To Do Before Bringing A Dog Home

A dog is man’s best friend. You’ve probably heard that statement too often, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Dogs are the perfect pets or housemates to have. Pick the right one for you and your family, and you’ll have the most loyal and lovable creature! Numerous studies highlight the several benefits of owning a dog. But if you’re thinking about owning a pet dog for the first time, there are some things you should do first. Here are a few:

Have a good supply of healthy food and treats:

While you may visit several places to get dog food and treats, you don’t need to wait to get a dog before attempting to find the right one. Dog nutrition is complex, and you must ensure that you get the right dog food and treats to help your new family member grow and stay healthy. Be sure to find a reliable and holistic pet store with different dog food types, treats, and other supplies your dog will need. And this leads to the next point:

Stock up on essential dog supplies:

In addition to food, your dog will need several other essentials to make them comfortable, healthy, and safe. These supplies include food and water bowls, a crate, a bed and sleeping area, a dog collar and leash, dog toys, stain and odor removal cleaners, and so much more.

Prepare everyone in your home for their new responsibility:

A dog is a fun addition to the family, but these little guys also have some responsibility. And if you live with others in your home, it’s only right that you prepare them for this. Share the various responsibilities of dog care amongst your family before you bring the dog home. For example, decide who will take care of its daily meals, take the dog out for walks, handle the dog’s training, etc.

Prepare a safe spot for the dog to play and sleep in:

If you’re expecting to bring home a pup, then it needs a safe space to play and sleep in. This space should be confined enough to restrict it from wandering away when not supervised. A safe and confined space also gives a pup enough time to learn its house manners and a spot to chill out comfortably.

Be sure that you’re ready for the responsibility:

If you live alone and cannot rely on anyone else to help you take care of your dog, then you need to be sure that you’re more than ready for the extra load of responsibility. If you have a very busy lifestyle, for example, you must first make enough time in your schedule to devote to your dog, from taking it out for walks to trips to the vet. Also, you might want to make sure that dogs do not trigger any allergic reactions from you.

Once you have implemented these tips, you and your family are ready to welcome your new and special addition. Life truly is great when you have a healthy and loving dog!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun30

5 Tips To Reduce Stress In Your Pets

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5 Tips To Reduce Stress In Your Pets

Just like humans, it’s necessary to reduce stress in your pets. Animals can get overwhelmed by sounds and other events. With fireworks season fast approaching, you can try the following to help calm them down:

Provide Human and Animal Social Interaction:

Humans require social interaction to survive. However, many species of animals, including cats and dogs, need social interaction even though they might appear independent. For instance, your Persian cat doesn’t purr for nothing and the Aussie Cobberdog will play with you for hours on end and stay close to you all night. This is because your pet feels affection towards you and trusts you. They find solace in you, just as you find comfort in them. Conversations, walks outside, and introductions to other animals can all help to lessen animal stress.

Pet Your Animals as Much as You Can:

Petting an animal reduces stress for both of you. Both your body and your pet’s body release oxytocin when you stroke their fur or hair. The hormone oxytocin is also released when you fall in love with someone or something. Playing with a pet also raises serotonin and dopamine levels, which are both known to lower stress and anxiety. For animals with restricted senses, touch is also crucial. For example, they will use their keen sense of smell to determine that you are not a threat if you pet them gently. Most have this ability.

Stay Inside:

Animals and people share the same chemicals, but they are concentrated differently in animals. For instance, they experience the effects of cortisol and serotonin. These cause both humans and animals to experience the fight or flight response. However, external factors have the potential to seriously distress animals. Cats and dogs, for instance, are easily distracted by loud noises, bright lights, and potent odors. Although training can lessen the reactions, it is best to simply stay away from triggering areas.

Recognize that Your Pets Have Phobias:

Fears are common among animals, particularly cats and dogs. To help them adjust, you must allay their fears. When puppies leave the house, separation anxiety is a common occurrence. When they perceive a threat, animals also experience intense fear. And an animal that is scared may lash out and attack you. You can reassure a scared pet, but they might mistake it for affection and start misbehaving. However, just like humans, exposing animals to their fears helps them cope with the stress that comes with it.

Try Natural Drugs and Herbal Remedies:

Both cats and dogs experience pain and fall ill. Antibiotics and painkillers essentially have the same effect on animals as they do on people. You’ve probably administered pain medication to your dog or cat when they broke a leg or had a bad tooth. Of course, suffering from pain makes an animal distressed and it may start to get restless and distracted. Products made from cannabis can benefit animals. Treats containing CBD for dogs can aid in lowering sources of medical stress in your animals. They are also excellent for dogs with medical conditions like epilepsy, as well as for younger dogs with injuries and older dogs with joint problems.

Animals are sensitive creatures and you can reduce stress in your pets in specific ways. Utilize these tips to help your furry friends and yourself in some cases too!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Jun26

4 Helpful Ways To Accommodate Your Pet While Traveling

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4 Helpful Ways To Accommodate Your Pet While Traveling

Are you going on vacation and worried about what to do with your pet? Don’t worry; we have you covered! There are many innovative ways to accommodate your pet while you’re away. In this post, we will discuss four of the best options. Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, there is a solution that will work for you and your furry friend:

Ship your pet:

If you’re traveling by plane, one option is to ship your pet ahead of time. This can be done by contacting a pet shipping company and arranging for them to transport your animal to your destination. Your pet will travel in a crate with all of the necessary food, water, and bedding. This option is best if you’re traveling internationally or if you’ll be gone for an extended period.

Shipping your pet ahead of time has some advantages. First, it’s less stressful for your animal and they won’t be allowed to travel with you in the airplane’s cabin anyway. Secondly, it’s more convenient since you won’t have to worry about bringing along a crate or finding space for your pet at your destination. Companies like Airpets International (or a similar one in your local area) specialize in safe and comfortable air travel for your pets. Take the time to review businesses like this to find the best fit for your pet so you can both arrive at your destination happy and healthy.

Pets on the Ferry to Rotterdam

Find a pet-friendly hotel:

You should also find Savannah dog-friendly hotels at your destination. Many hotels now offer amenities for guests traveling with pets, such as special beds, bowls, and treats. Some even have staff members who are trained to care for animals. This option is great if you’re only going to be gone for a few days and don’t want to ship your pet ahead of time. When looking for a pet-friendly hotel, you should keep a few things in mind:

  • Make sure the hotel allows pets.
  • Check to see if there are any size or breed restrictions.
  • Inquire about any additional fees that may be charged for bringing along a pet.

It’s so important to do your research on pet friendly options ahead of time to minimize stress on your pet and yourself. To start finding information, simply enter a search for “pet-friendly rental in Port A” (or where you plan on visiting) to see what kind of accommodations are offered.

If you are a pet-friendly lodging destination, it can drive tons of new business to really put it out there with the help of a luxury travel marketing company. It can be difficult to find pet friendly hotels or vacation home rentals and that can be a huge selling point if your location offers pet accommodations. It will certainly make a lot of pet parents who are traveling very happy!

Hire a pet sitter:

Another option is to hire a pet sitter. This person will come to your home and take care of your animal while you’re away. They will ensure your pet has food, water, and adequate exercise. This option is best if you’re only going to be gone for a short period of time and you want your pet to stay in their familiar surroundings.

When hiring a pet sitter, you should keep a few things in mind. Make sure the person is responsible and trustworthy. You should also do a trial run before leaving to see how they interact with your animal. Finally, leave clear instructions about your pet’s care and schedule.

Board your pet:

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, another option is to consider Pet Boarding. This can be done at a kennel, boarding facility, or veterinary hospital. Your pet will have space and be fed and exercised regularly. This option is best if you’re traveling for business or pleasure and you won’t have time to take care of your animal yourself.

When looking for a place to board your pet, make sure the facility is clean and comfortable. Second, check to see if the staff is experienced and qualified to care for animals. Third, inquire about any additional services that may be offered, such as grooming or exercise.

It’s hard to relax when you’re traveling if you are worrying about your pet so choose the option that you are most comfortable with. And don’t forget to ask for lots of pictures of your pet while you’re away! 😀

Featured Image By: Ruel Madelo