Hazel says Happy Furrrriday!
I don't know about you, but Hazel and I have had a long week. We're excited to break for the weekend. Happy Furrrriday Paws peeps! Stay safe and stay paw-sitive!
Doggy PFD: Float on with the best life preservers and life jackets for dogs
 |
| This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. |
Does your dog use a personal floatation device? Are you looking to test the waters with a dog life preserver? Swim season means that many dog owners will be dipping their toes into stores, trying to buy the best life jacket for their dog. So what is the best life jacket for your dog? That depends on a lot of things. It depends on your dog breed, your budget, and how much time your dog spends in the water. There are lots of great life jackets for dogs. I've been searching online to try and find the best life preservers for your dog.
World Oceans Day update: The humpback whale that was spotted swimming in Montreal waters has died today
Yesterday I posted about the humpback whale swimming in the St.Lawrence River in Montreal as part of my World Oceans Day celebration. The whale was first spotted on May 30 and as far as local marine biologists were aware, this was the first time that a humpback whale had been spotted in Montreal waters. I'm sad to report that today that same whale was found floating dead in the St. Lawrence River.
Yesterday I posted about the humpback whale swimming in the St.Lawrence River in Montreal as part of my World Oceans Day celebration. The whale was first spotted on May 30 and as far as local marine biologists were aware, this was the first time that a humpback whale had been spotted in Montreal waters. I'm sad to report that today that same whale was found floating dead in the St. Lawrence River.
World Oceans Day: 15 ways to save the habitat of the humpback whale
Reports of a humpback whale swimming in the St.Lawrence River in Montreal stunned Canadians on May 30. CBC News reported that as far as local marine biologists were aware, this was the first time that a humpback whale had been spotted in Montreal waters. This is one of the many examples of how the COVID-19 pandemic's restrictions that are keeping waterways clearer, less cars on the road, and fewer people out in the community have positively impacted wildlife and the environment. Not only have carbon emissions been lowered, but wildlife is showing up in places where these animals haven't been seen before.
Reports of a humpback whale swimming in the St.Lawrence River in Montreal stunned Canadians on May 30. CBC News reported that as far as local marine biologists were aware, this was the first time that a humpback whale had been spotted in Montreal waters. This is one of the many examples of how the COVID-19 pandemic's restrictions that are keeping waterways clearer, less cars on the road, and fewer people out in the community have positively impacted wildlife and the environment. Not only have carbon emissions been lowered, but wildlife is showing up in places where these animals haven't been seen before.
Tails on the trails: How to keep your dog safe on the hiking trail
I love day hiking with my dogs! It’s a great way to bond with them and stay in shape. June 6 is The American Hiking Society's National Trails Day! Parks and trails are very stimulating for a dog and I find hiking in nature so relaxing. But the wilderness can be a dangerous place and it’s important to take precautions to make sure no one gets hurt- including wildlife you may encounter along the way.
 |
| This post contains affiliate links |
I love day hiking with my dogs! It’s a great way to bond with them and stay in shape. June 6 is The American Hiking Society's National Trails Day! Parks and trails are very stimulating for a dog and I find hiking in nature so relaxing. But the wilderness can be a dangerous place and it’s important to take precautions to make sure no one gets hurt- including wildlife you may encounter along the way.
Fall back in love with nature on World Environment Day: Learn how you can help preserve biodiversity
It's hard to remember when I first fell in love with nature. I have many memories of life outdoors as a child, but it's difficult to remember which memories were the first. These memories are sprinkled throughout my childhood, far in the past, foggy but still clear. One thing I know for certain is that they all involve frogs.
It's hard to remember when I first fell in love with nature. I have many memories of life outdoors as a child, but it's difficult to remember which memories were the first. These memories are sprinkled throughout my childhood, far in the past, foggy but still clear. One thing I know for certain is that they all involve frogs.
We stand with you
The Paws For Reaction family cares deeply about many things- not just your pets. We want to support an inclusive society that doesn't tolerate discrimination and violence of any kind. Tomorrow, June 5 at 3:00 pm there will be a peaceful march in Ottawa to condemn the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis and to honour his life. The peaceful march will begin at the United States Embassy on Sussex Drive and it will be a 10-minute walk. Anyone attending the march is asked to maintain social distancing measures and to wear a facemask. Peaceful protests are scheduled across Canada to support the black community and protest racism and police brutality.
The Paws For Reaction family cares deeply about many things- not just your pets. We want to support an inclusive society that doesn't tolerate discrimination and violence of any kind. Tomorrow, June 5 at 3:00 pm there will be a peaceful march in Ottawa to condemn the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis and to honour his life. The peaceful march will begin at the United States Embassy on Sussex Drive and it will be a 10-minute walk. Anyone attending the march is asked to maintain social distancing measures and to wear a facemask. Peaceful protests are scheduled across Canada to support the black community and protest racism and police brutality.
Ottawa dog owners: Canine blood donors are needed for Canadian Animal Blood Bank Clinic
In my search for local, dog-friendly events I came across something truly amazing! Ottawa Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospital is hosting a Canadian Animal Blood Bank Clinic! There is currently a shortage of blood supplies across Canada and they are urgently looking for canine donors.
In my search for local, dog-friendly events I came across something truly amazing! Ottawa Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospital is hosting a Canadian Animal Blood Bank Clinic! There is currently a shortage of blood supplies across Canada and they are urgently looking for canine donors.
National Great Outdoors Month: My 5 favourite nature and environment books
Nature lovers and book lovers unite! I'm celebrating my love for the outdoors for National Great Outdoors Month and taking a quick break from my summer reading list to share my five favourite books about nature and the environment. There are lots of great books about nature, but these five are the outside books I've enjoyed the most. So grab a book and a blanket and find a tree to rest under, because it's time to connect with the Earth through the pages of a book!
 |
| This post contains affiliate links to all of these fantastic books! |
Nature lovers and book lovers unite! I'm celebrating my love for the outdoors for National Great Outdoors Month and taking a quick break from my summer reading list to share my five favourite books about nature and the environment. There are lots of great books about nature, but these five are the outside books I've enjoyed the most. So grab a book and a blanket and find a tree to rest under, because it's time to connect with the Earth through the pages of a book!
National Great Outdoors Month: Submit a photo of your pet outdoors to be featured
It's time to play outside! June is National Great Outdoors Month, and I'll be featuring pets enjoying the outdoors on Paws For Reaction! Send me a photo of your pet enjoying the outdoors to be featured in a post at the end of the month. Don't forget to tell me your pet's name, gender, and what your pet loves the most about the outdoors!
It's time to play outside! June is National Great Outdoors Month, and I'll be featuring pets enjoying the outdoors on Paws For Reaction! Send me a photo of your pet enjoying the outdoors to be featured in a post at the end of the month. Don't forget to tell me your pet's name, gender, and what your pet loves the most about the outdoors!
National Pet Preparedness Month: Get your paws on these 8 unique dog identification tags
Do you remember the scene in Disney's Lady and the Tramp when Lady was given her first dog tags? She was so proud of her shiny new bling! Pet identification tags have come a long way. Now your dog can wear a dog tag that suits her unique style. Since June is National Pet Preparedness Month, I think it's the perfect time to show you the cutest, most creative pet ID tags. I've been sniffing out adorable tags for your pet, focusing on style, safety, and capturing your dog's personality. This post contains affiliate links to ALL of the fido fashion tags I've featured!
Do you remember the scene in Disney's Lady and the Tramp when Lady was given her first dog tags? She was so proud of her shiny new bling! Pet identification tags have come a long way. Now your dog can wear a dog tag that suits her unique style. Since June is National Pet Preparedness Month, I think it's the perfect time to show you the cutest, most creative pet ID tags. I've been sniffing out adorable tags for your pet, focusing on style, safety, and capturing your dog's personality. This post contains affiliate links to ALL of the fido fashion tags I've featured!
Family fun while physical distancing: Girl Guides of Canada and the David Suzuki Foundation host The Great Canadian Camp-in
The Guiding Year has was cut short because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which not only meant meetings were canceled but also the most fun event of the season- summer camp! Girl Guides of Canada has been working on creative ways to connect with their Guiding units to make sure the girls don't miss out on all of the things Girl Guides has to offer. On June 6 Girl Guides of Canada, in partnership with the David Suzuki Foundation, will host The Great Canadian Camp-in!
The Guiding Year has was cut short because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which not only meant meetings were canceled but also the most fun event of the season- summer camp! Girl Guides of Canada has been working on creative ways to connect with their Guiding units to make sure the girls don't miss out on all of the things Girl Guides has to offer. On June 6 Girl Guides of Canada, in partnership with the David Suzuki Foundation, will host The Great Canadian Camp-in!
National Photograph Month photo submissions: Check out these extraordinary pets!
 |
| This is Jethro! Jethro's mom says he is "my world... my best friend... my everything." I can definitely see why! He's such a handsome boy! |
For National Photograph Month I asked my readers to submit your favourite photo of your pet to be featured and you did not disappoint! Our pets provide us with so much joy, and we are able to capture those moments of joy from behind the lens. I'm so happy to share YOUR amazing pets!
Product Review: Goober Dog Collars are handmade in Canada
Hazel's life has changed so much since she moved to Ottawa and became a big city dog. One thing that has changed a lot is that we see way more people on our walks than we did in the country. Hazel gets a lot of attention, and even though people remark that she's 'such a beautiful dog,' almost everyone assumes that she's a boy. That's what prompted me to ask myself: 'how can I make my dog look more like a girl?'
 |
| This post contains affiliate links! |
Hazel's life has changed so much since she moved to Ottawa and became a big city dog. One thing that has changed a lot is that we see way more people on our walks than we did in the country. Hazel gets a lot of attention, and even though people remark that she's 'such a beautiful dog,' almost everyone assumes that she's a boy. That's what prompted me to ask myself: 'how can I make my dog look more like a girl?'
Book Review: My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
I knew before I finished the first chapter that My Dark Vanessa was going to be difficult to read. At the same time, before I finished the first chapter I was sure I'd be engulfed by it. It wasn't because of the author's disclaimer at the beginning, informing the reader the events in the book were not a truth-telling of her past at boarding school or the vague mention of things in 'the news' clearly referring to the #MeToo movement. It's been a long time since I've been compelled to highlight a passage in a novel, but I found myself running a highlighter across the page, soaking the sentences that made me feel gutted in a bright colour. I could tell that Vanessa was going to crush me.
 |
| This post contains affiliate links! |
I knew before I finished the first chapter that My Dark Vanessa was going to be difficult to read. At the same time, before I finished the first chapter I was sure I'd be engulfed by it. It wasn't because of the author's disclaimer at the beginning, informing the reader the events in the book were not a truth-telling of her past at boarding school or the vague mention of things in 'the news' clearly referring to the #MeToo movement. It's been a long time since I've been compelled to highlight a passage in a novel, but I found myself running a highlighter across the page, soaking the sentences that made me feel gutted in a bright colour. I could tell that Vanessa was going to crush me.
Summer on the water: Can I teach my dog to swim? (and other dog swimming safety tips)
 |
| This post contains affiliate links |
The sun is hinting towards warmer weather and that means it’s almost time for my dogs to go swimming! Some dogs- like mine- love the water. Before taking the plunge, make sure you are prepared to take your dog swimming safely. Swimming and other water play with your dog is a great way to beat the heat and can be a bonding experience. Whether you go to a swimming destination or are just swimming in the backyard pool, safety precautions must be taken.
Heatstroke in dogs: Does my dog have heatstroke? How to prevent my dog from getting heatstroke
Summer is my favourite season! I could spend all day outside under the hot sun. Unfortunately, for my dog, that same summer sun I love can be very dangerous for her. Hazel is a Saint Bernese, and mountain dogs are not made for hot weather. Most dogs need restricted lengths of time in the sun because dogs, like people, can suffer from heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
 |
| This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. |
Summer is my favourite season! I could spend all day outside under the hot sun. Unfortunately, for my dog, that same summer sun I love can be very dangerous for her. Hazel is a Saint Bernese, and mountain dogs are not made for hot weather. Most dogs need restricted lengths of time in the sun because dogs, like people, can suffer from heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Dear veterinary medicine community: Thank you, stay strong, and we love you
This is my dog Hazel after her foreign body surgery. Two veterinarians and a team of technicians worked through their lunch- their only break in a long day of saving lives- to save my dog. Hazel's doctor took this photo and sent it to me- it was the moment she woke up. I waited for two hours but Hazel really wanted to sleep it off, so the doctor texted me this as soon as she was awake. Her name is Dr. Paquette, and she's incredible. I'm not sure I really expressed to all of them how grateful I was. The cost of losing Hazel may have meant losing myself. It was worth every penny, and I can never repay them. I got the full value fo their service- I got to keep my best friend. So Thank you.
This is my dog Hazel after her foreign body surgery. Two veterinarians and a team of technicians worked through their lunch- their only break in a long day of saving lives- to save my dog. Hazel's doctor took this photo and sent it to me- it was the moment she woke up. I waited for two hours but Hazel really wanted to sleep it off, so the doctor texted me this as soon as she was awake. Her name is Dr. Paquette, and she's incredible. I'm not sure I really expressed to all of them how grateful I was. The cost of losing Hazel may have meant losing myself. It was worth every penny, and I can never repay them. I got the full value fo their service- I got to keep my best friend. So Thank you.
Book Review: The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell is the author to watch in the coming years and like her other works, The Family Upstairs did not disappoint. This book is like Flowers in the Attic meets the Jonestown cult- but in London. Jewell's story uncovers a dark family history, chapter by chapter, as told by the three main characters.
 |
| This post contains affiliate links! |
Lisa Jewell is the author to watch in the coming years and like her other works, The Family Upstairs did not disappoint. This book is like Flowers in the Attic meets the Jonestown cult- but in London. Jewell's story uncovers a dark family history, chapter by chapter, as told by the three main characters.
World Bee Day: With bee populations at risk, how can you help protect the bees?
With murder hornets in the news, bees are all the buzz in 2020. Bees are important players in our eco-system. They're hardworking pollinators that have a huge impact on our food supply. Unfortunately, with biodiversity being compromised, bees are being threatened by human activity. The way we live is causing a decline in many bee species- but there are things we can do to change this.
The United Nations designated May 20th World Bee Day. The date was selected because it "coincides with the birthday of Anton Janša, who in the 18th century pioneered modern beekeeping techniques in his native Slovenia."
 |
| This post contains affiliate links |
With murder hornets in the news, bees are all the buzz in 2020. Bees are important players in our eco-system. They're hardworking pollinators that have a huge impact on our food supply. Unfortunately, with biodiversity being compromised, bees are being threatened by human activity. The way we live is causing a decline in many bee species- but there are things we can do to change this.
The United Nations designated May 20th World Bee Day. The date was selected because it "coincides with the birthday of Anton Janša, who in the 18th century pioneered modern beekeeping techniques in his native Slovenia."
In denial: The unfortunate truth about fleas you may be ignoring
Alright, pet parents- are you ready to hate me? Because I’m about to tell you something that I have told many pet parents in the past and to my surprise, it almost always elicits a furious or begrudging reaction. I’m about to talk about fleas right now so grab your pitchforks and torches.
Alright, pet parents- are you ready to hate me? Because I’m about to tell you something that I have told many pet parents in the past and to my surprise, it almost always elicits a furious or begrudging reaction. I’m about to talk about fleas right now so grab your pitchforks and torches.
Spring safety: 10 common flowers that are toxic to dogs
It seems as though the warmer weather is finally here to stay. The sun is shining. Beautiful spring flowers are blooming. Your dog explores the world with its nose. Unfortunately, a dog's nose can lead them to dangerous things. Flowers that are beautiful to us can be toxic to your dog. These are 10 common flowers that are toxic to dogs. If your dog ingests any of these plants, call your veterinarian immediately.
It seems as though the warmer weather is finally here to stay. The sun is shining. Beautiful spring flowers are blooming. Your dog explores the world with its nose. Unfortunately, a dog's nose can lead them to dangerous things. Flowers that are beautiful to us can be toxic to your dog. These are 10 common flowers that are toxic to dogs. If your dog ingests any of these plants, call your veterinarian immediately.
Paws walk the red carpet: The Beverly Hills Dog Show airs tonight!
Tonight is the most glamourous night of the dog year! The 4th Annual Beverly Hills Dog Show, presented by Purina, airs tonight at 8pm ET/PT and 7pm CT/MT on NBC. Maria Menounos gave me the inside scoop about the pitter-patter on the red carpet, how she is handling the Covid-19 crisis, and how we can get Hazel a job as a canine correspondent. Watch our video interview!
Tonight is the most glamourous night of the dog year! The 4th Annual Beverly Hills Dog Show, presented by Purina, airs tonight at 8pm ET/PT and 7pm CT/MT on NBC. Maria Menounos gave me the inside scoop about the pitter-patter on the red carpet, how she is handling the Covid-19 crisis, and how we can get Hazel a job as a canine correspondent. Watch our video interview!
May is National Photograph Month: Do you have a favourite photo of your pet? I want to feature it!
Did you know that May is National Photograph Month? Being a photographer myself, I love the idea of an entire month to celebrate capturing life and art through the lens. My favourite subjects are my pets! I still have some spots left for featured pets! I'd love to feature your pet!
Do you have a photo of your pet that you love? Email it to pawsforreaction@live.ca for a feature! I'll be featuring your pet's photos in a post at the end of the month. Don't forget to include your pet's name, gender, your first name, and why you love the photo!
Did you know that May is National Photograph Month? Being a photographer myself, I love the idea of an entire month to celebrate capturing life and art through the lens. My favourite subjects are my pets! I still have some spots left for featured pets! I'd love to feature your pet!
Do you have a photo of your pet that you love? Email it to pawsforreaction@live.ca for a feature! I'll be featuring your pet's photos in a post at the end of the month. Don't forget to include your pet's name, gender, your first name, and why you love the photo!
COVID-19 and your pet: What Ontario's 'stage one' reopening plan means for veterinary care and pet services
After yesterday's press briefing by Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the changes to restrictions on veterinary care, pet grooming, and animal boarding, many animal hospitals and pet service telephones rang off the hook. The community is ready to get back to business as usual when it comes to their pets. There's just one problem: most pet services are not ready. They were watching at the same time as the general public.
After yesterday's press briefing by Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the changes to restrictions on veterinary care, pet grooming, and animal boarding, many animal hospitals and pet service telephones rang off the hook. The community is ready to get back to business as usual when it comes to their pets. There's just one problem: most pet services are not ready. They were watching at the same time as the general public.
Endangered Species Day: Extirpated species in Ontario and what you can do to help
 |
Ontario has many endangered, threatened, special concern and extirpated animals and plants that need special consideration on Endangered Species Day. I've celebrated this in awareness day in the past. Sometimes we can be less concerned about animals we've never seen before. The term endangered species often makes people think of Beluga whales, Polar Bears, wolves, and other mammals that get a lot of publicity. Cute, furry animals that we're familiar with. Or ferocious predators. Birds, bugs, and slimy species aren't on our radar. We see more wolves and polar bears used in awareness campaigns than we do the Karner Blue butterfly. It's one of the four extirpated insect species in Ontario. There are 23 bugs on Ontario's list of insects at risk- and the Karner Blue is one of the most striking of them all. This butterfly used to be widespread in Toronto, London, and Sarnia until habitat loss resulted in a huge decline in the species.
A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS
PAWS FOR REACTION is celebrating 13 years! Ottawa-based pet care and nutrition, environmental, and lifestyle blog- always searching for the best in pet care, eco-friendly products and fun local events! Come explore with Hazel, the Saint Bernese, as she lives her best, food-driven, outdoor-loving, asymmetrical, #DogLife
ABOUT ME: I have nine years of experience working in veterinary medicine. I'm a Climate Reality Project Leader and have spent years volunteering with organizations including OSPCA, Farley Foundation, Ontario Nature, Future Ground Network, and Girl Guides of Canada.
Featured Post
ASK A VET: Safe holiday tips & dog grooming trends
I was featured on Purr Podcast!
Posts
POPULAR POSTS
I was featured on Purr Podcast!
Search This Blog
Blog Archive
CHECK OUT MY WORK!
- AAHA Trends Magazine Interview- Practice of the Year 2016
- PAH Blog- Interview with Dr. Alison Seely, veterinary chiropractor and author
- The Pembroke Observer- OSPCA Paws to Support Local
- Scout Knows- Heart failure and pet insurance coverage
- Court Outdoors- Meet me on the water- Ottawa Valley SUP
- PAH Blog- Eight reasons to choose an AAHA veterinary practice
- Traversing- Snowshoe at Petawawa Terrace Ontario Park
- Scout Knows- Best dog harness for every dog
- DeliveryRank Interview: The blog, the dog, and so much more!
- PAH Blog- Why is my dog itchy?
SAFE PET ONTARIO
Coordinating foster care for pets of individuals in Ontario fleeing violent situations.
Contact Form
Powered by Blogger.
Translate
GALAXY SIZED FUN
DOG OWNER RESOURCES
- Canadian Association Of Veterinary Cannabinoid Medicine (CAVCM)
- American Heartworm Society
- Veterinary Oral Health Council Accepted Dental Products for Dogs (VOHC)
- Royal Canin Canine Nutrition
- Essex Animal Hospital Canine Rehab and Fitness
- Dog Health by Purina
- Dog Health
- Zoetis Dog Blog
- Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
- Canine Behaviour Dr. Colleen Wilson
- Canine Illustrated Articles Northwestern Veterinary Hospital
- Everything you need to know about Canine Parvovirus- Pembroke Animal Hospital
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- Puppy Hub- Banfield Pet Hospital
- OVMA Dog Owner Handbook
Categories
PET OWNER RESOURCES
- Veterinary Partner (VIN)
- Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA)
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
- Find a Veterinarian in Ontario (CVO)
- Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
- Pet Health Network (IDEXX)
- Indoor Pet Initiative
- World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
- Pet Nutrition Alliance
- American Veterinary Dental College
- Germs and Worms Dr. Scott Weese
- Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC)
- Pet Poison Helpline
- ASPCA Poison Control
- Pet Microchip Look-up
- Pet Card Veterinary Care Financial Assistance
