During the holidays, everything shifts. Feeding times change. Walks happen when we can squeeze them in. There are extra treats, extra people, and a lot less structure. My dog handled it well, but I could tell he missed the rhythm of normal days.

January is when we come back to ourselves. The house is quieter. The mornings are slower. And rebuilding a routine feels less like a task and more like a comfort.

One of the first things I reset was how we do meals. Instead of rushing through them or defaulting to a bowl, I started turning mealtime into something more thoughtful.

Winter limits how much time we spend outside, so mental stimulation becomes just as important as physical exercise. Feeding through enrichment has been one of the easiest ways to bring calm, focus, and structure back into our days.

Lately, I’ve been using Merrick Dry Dog Food inside puzzle feeders and enrichment toys instead of extra treats. The kibble pieces are the perfect size for snuffle mats, puzzle games, and slow feeders, and it feels good knowing I’m using his actual meals for stimulation. It turns feeding time into a moment we both look forward to, not just something to check off the list.

Our days don’t look fancy or perfectly scheduled, but they feel intentional:

• Puzzle feeders in the morning while I make coffee
• Short winter walks paired with indoor enrichment
• Rotating toys so nothing feels boring
• Evenings that end the same way every night

Rebuilding a routine in January isn’t about strict rules or doing everything “right.” It’s about paying attention. Noticing what your dog needs. Creating moments of consistency when everything else feels uncertain. For us, that meant slowing down, being more present, and finding joy in the everyday like turning a simple bowl of food into a game.

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Instead of dipping apples on a stick, I went for something warmer and more comforting: baked, hollowed-out apples filled with creamy pumpkin ice cream. Drizzled with caramel for me, sprinkled with Zuke’s treats for my dog. It turned into a festive little tradition we’ll definitely be repeating. Here’s how it went:

My Version: Caramel Apple Bliss

I hollowed out a crisp apple, baked it until it was soft and warm, then scooped in a generous ball of pumpkin ice cream. The finale? A drizzle of gooey caramel that melted down the sides like golden lava. Cozy, sweet, and perfectly spooky-season ready.

My Dog’s Version: Pup-Approved Apple Bowl

While mine was cooling, I made a dog-friendly version. Same baked apple shell, same pumpkin ice cream (the pet-safe kind, of course)…but instead of caramel, I crumbled a handful of Merrick treats on top. The crunch added the perfect texture, and the smell alone had my pup drooling before I even set the bowl down.

We sat together on the balcony with the fire going, me with my caramel-drizzled apple and him with his Merrick topped apple bowl, watching the leaves tumble across the yard down below and the moon light up the night sky. It was the kind of cozy fall moment that feels like a snapshot, warm, festive, and just a little bit magical.

Halloween may be about tricks and treats, but in our house, it’s all treats, especially when Merrick is is involved. 

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When I went glamping in Japan with my dog, Zero, I quickly learned that glamping isn’t just for humans—it’s a perfect adventure for pups too! If you’re planning a similar getaway with your furry friend, you’ll want to make sure you pack everything you both need for the ultimate outdoor experience. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own glamping adventures and why Merrick’s food was my go-to choice to keep Zero happy and healthy throughout our trip.

What I Packed for Our Glamping Adventure

• Comfy Bedding: Zero needed his own comfy space just like I did! I brought his kennel and soft bed and a blanket to make sure he had a cozy spot after a long day of exploring.

• Water and Bowl: Hydration is key, especially when you’re spending the day outdoors. I made sure to pack a portable water bowl and extra water to keep Zero hydrated during our hikes and downtime.

• Leash & Harness: There were so many interesting smells and sights! A sturdy leash and harness kept Zero safe while we explored the great outdoors.

• Toys for Fun: I brought along a couple of his favorite toys to keep him entertained, whether we were relaxing by the campfire or playing fetch.

Why Merrick’s Food Was Perfect for Our Trip

After all that fun in the sun, I needed something quick and easy to feed Zero. Merrick’s Backcountry meals were a lifesaver! They’re made with real, high-quality ingredients and packed with protein to keep him energized during our hikes. I also loved the grain-free formula because Zero has a sensitive stomach, and it kept him feeling great the whole trip.

When it was time to wind down, I gave him some Merrick Soft & Chewy Treats—perfect for a little snack while we relaxed by the campfire. Plus, a bit of Merrick Bone Broth kept him cozy during the cooler evenings.

Planning your own glamping trip? Grab Merrick or Zuke’s treats at your local commissary, or order online at Click2Go.

As soon as my feet hit the floor each morning, Luna knows it’s time for breakfast and she waits impatiently by her bowl. I used to feel like her food was just another task to check off the list, but since I started using Merrick, I feel more deliberate about her care.

The first thing I liked was Merrick’s simple & real ingredients, especially since I wouldn’t want Luna eating anything I don’t feel good about. It’s comforting to know she’s getting real deboned meat, and I’ve seen that she seems more satisfied after meals. Her coat is shinier, and she even has an extra bounce in her step during playtime! Little things like that make a big difference in our daily lives.

I appreciate the ease of grabbing Merrick’s cat food at the Commissary during my regular grocery run. There’s no need for an extra stop at an over-priced specialty store. I’ve come to enjoy the ritual of feeding her something I trust that I know she likes.

Luna seems happier now, and as any cat parent knows, that’s the ultimate reward. Feeding her Merrick’s cat food has become more than just filling a bowl…It’s one more way I can show her I care.

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Are you and your furry friend ready for something new and delightful? Well, get ready, because not only is Merrick’s high-quality dog food available at your local Commissary but now their NEW cat food is too! That’s right, you can now conveniently pick up Merrick’s nutritious and delicious dog and cat food offerings while you’re doing your regular shopping.

Merrick is known for crafting pet food recipes that are made with only the finest, whole food ingredients. Their meals are packed with proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to support your pet’s overall wellbeing. And now, you can treat your four-legged companion to Merrick’s goodness without having to make a special trip to the pet store.

Whether your pet prefers dry kibble, wet canned food, or delectable toppers and treats, Merrick has a wide variety of options to choose from at the Commissary. From their protein-rich dry foods to their mouthwatering wet recipes, you’re sure to find the perfect meal to satisfy your pet’s taste buds and nutritional needs.So what are you waiting for? Head to your local Commissary today and stock up on Merrick’s premium pet nutrition. Your pet deserves the best, and now you can provide it with convenience and ease. Get ready to see your furry friend thrive with the power of Merrick at your Commissary!