Have you heard about our Easter event?
Whiskers gives back!
One of our amazing volunteers, Bonnie, came up with the idea to attach a food drive to our Bunny’s Breakfast event on March 16th at Buck’s Motorsports in Akron (our new hometown!!!) So we spoke with the Akron-Newstead Food Pantry (https://www.facebook.com/akronnewsteadfoodpantry) and they said they would very much like:
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Cereal
- Canned fruit in natural unsweetened syrup
If you come to our event with any 3 of these donations, we will enter you in a raffle for a $25 Pixley’s gift card and a special Easter surprise.
These items are always in high demand!
We are looking for items…
We are looking for items for our spring online auction:
- Mens/Fathers day gifts – Sports, tools, cologne. grilling, beer, coffee, etc.
- Mothers day gifts – Candles, perfume, jewelry, purses, pamper items etc.
- Spring decor
If you would like to donate please reply back to this email to arrange pick up or drop off! All donations must be in by 4/1 to give out wonderful team time to add them to the auction!
Save the Date!
Our third annual Louie Fur-ton Presents Sashay into Summer Doggie Fashion Show and Adoption Event is June 23rd from noon- 4pm at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in their Event Center – you know, the one with the fancy stage and giant screens on either side. We are adding many exciting components that we will announce soon! Mark your calendars, we hope to see you there!
Do you have any?
- Can tabs
- Dash’s grocery receipts
If so, you can bring them to any of our fundraising events and we will turn them in for cash!
Good to know…
The 5 Love Languages of a Dog!
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” Return the love to your favorite furry friends this month with these simple ideas. It isn’t about more time- it’s about learning your dog’s love language and showing them just how much you care.
Physical Touch
- Create Morning Cuddle Time. If you’re already stressed about how crazy your morning routine is, try waking up just five or 10 minutes early to include your dog in it. You’re probably already starting the day with a quick trip outside with your pup, but see if you can spend five extra minutes in bed cuddling with your dog in the morning. It can set the tone for the rest of the day!
- Massage. While your first instinct may be to hug or pat your dog on the head to show affection, to dogs, these are actually signs of dominance. Try gently massaging their bellies or behind their ears. Brushing your dog with a soft brush feels great to your pup, and is also a nice way to show affection. massages are good for all canines, even those couch potatoes. Massages reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day activity.
- Learn their body language. Sometimes it’s not about specific actions we take with our pets but rather the way we tune into what they’re feeling that helps show how much we love them. By understanding how your dog feels, you can react appropriately and foster a strong bond. For example, scared dogs will cower and lower their heads and tuck their tails, whereas angry dogs will have their ears back and hackles raised. And we all know a big smile and wagging tail is a good sign!
Quality Time
- Let your dog hang out with you! This might seem obvious, but even the smallest act — like letting your dog hang around while you work — can help him feel like he’s part of your busy day. Pets respond to interaction, even the simplest kind. Allowing your dog to lay on your lap or feet while you work is likely enough to remind him you love him — and it gives you great company, too.
- There’s also incorporating your pup into your family time to show you care. For example, when the family is watching television together, invite your dog to be with the family, or turn your walks into full family adventures.
- Take them for a drive. If you’re running an errand that won’t require you leaving the car, why not bring your pup along? Many dogs love car rides, especially when it’s just about riding shotgun and there is no vet visit along the way.
Acts of Service
- Leave toys when you’re gone. Whether it’s a full workday or just a few errands, make sure your dog has plenty of mental stimulation in your absence. There are a variety of interactive canine toys into which treats can be stuffed, so the dog stays engaged while working on getting the treat.
- Teaching skills or tricks are a great way to bond with your dog. You can easily teach your dog tricks like shake hands, crawl, fetch, roll over, and even kiss. Training treats that your dog really loves are a great way to teach your dog tricks through positive reward training.
- Get them groomed. Some dogs may not like being groomed, but plenty of pups love it. A professional dog grooming session is a great way to splurge on or spoil your pup, but there are also at-home grooming options if your dog isn’t into traveling to the groomer. At the very least, a good brushing and a quick bath are nice ways to keep your pet fresh.
Words of Affirmation
- Pay attention to praise. It’s easy to turn our attention on our dogs when they misbehave, but by praising them when they are behaving like perfect angels, simply lying there and being quiet and calm or doing something cute, you’re helping to reinforce their good behavior. Go over to your dog and give him 30 seconds of love or a healthy treat. You may also end up having a calmer pet over time if you are consistent about this!
- You should also pay attention to your tone when conversing with your pet. Dogs may not understand every word you say, but they do understand a kind, calm demeanor.
Gifts
If your dog has your whole heart, shop local and show them! Here’s a list of local vendors.
- https://www.cleoandkate.com
- https://buffalobarkery.com
- https://heartsnbarks.com
- https://treatsunleashed.com
From Board Member Liz Vetrano
