Keep gates and fences closed. If this is the first event of the Spring or Summer, check both carefully. Many dog breeds have a habit of digging for all kinds of reasons, especially when they’re bored. That rose bush in the corner of the backyard is pretty, but it can hide an escape hatch your dog will use the moment all you want is a burger to absorb the two (or three) beers you drank while grilling.

Remember, the meat goes on a tray, on the table. Preferably on the center of a sturdy table with no chairs around it to avoid canine ninja action. The ideal location is a fold-down shelf attached to your grill. It’s perfect for support, lets you keep an eye on the meal before and after cooking, and it’s a great place to set down your beer when you need to use both hands on the grill.

Of course, the best defense is a good offense. Train your pet now to avoid the grill and not pull items off the backyard table. If your dog already knows to stay off the kitchen or dining room table, then you’re in good shape already.

That said, puppies are puppies and have an attention span even shorter than that of a two-year-old. If you haven’t started training or just started, you may need to keep your dog inside until you finish grilling and put everything away. Not just utensils, that also includes charcoal, lighter fluid, kindling, wood chips, and everything else. Even if what you’re using for fuel isn’t toxic, it’s still big enough to leave a knot on your dog’s (or your kid’s) head.

Now that the food is cooked and everyone is ready to eat, you can relax and begin that fine, American tradition of feeding your dogs from the table. Yes, you’re not supposed to, but this is the outside, so the inside rules can be broken and then duct-taped back together the next day. After all, duct-tape fixes everything.

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Are you ready to see a difference in your pet’s health? Then you are ready to take the Purina ONE 28 Challenge. From stronger joints and teeth to a healthy heart, Purina ONE delivers high-quality nutrition for every stage of your pet’s life. 

See the visible difference in just 28 days! Purina ONE uses real meat as the #1 ingredient, so that means more excitement at meal time. Additionally, the carbohydrate sources support more energy health, so your pet will have more energy to play. Highly digestible ingredients support better absorption of nutrients. Purina ONE continues to deliver visible proof that it is working through vitamins A and E, providing healthy skin and coat from Omega 6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Lastly, minerals selenium and zinc help nourish your dog’s immune system.

We took the challenge and after the first 7 days, my dog’s zoomies were back in action and my cats had kitten energy. Their coats were shinier, eyes were brighter, and we were able to enjoy our evening walks again! 
So what are you waiting for?? Start the challenge today. Sign up online today, then head to your local Navy Exchange grab your FREE bag of Purina ONE! For more information check out MilitaryPetFood.com.

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Places to Visit on Your Scenic Route:

• National Parks: Did you know there are 63 National Parks in the United States? One of the best things about these parks is that a lot of them offer military discounts.
• State Parks: State parks offer great views and many have picnic areas which make them a great rest stop for lunch or exercise.
• Walking Trails/Parks: Almost every major city will offer a nice trail or park that is considered pet-friendly. Finding a nice trail will be a great way to stretch your legs after being in the car for a long period of time.
• Lakes/Beaches: Depending on what route you take you may not encounter a beach, but there are over 125,000 lakes in the lower 48 states. Don’t forget to pack a comfortable leash during your trip. I’m sure your pet will want to get out and maybe take a dip in the water…if it’s allowed.

Get out and enjoy the open road! So, slow down and enjoy new sights, sounds, and smells. Your pet will appreciate having a new environment to explore as this provides mental enrichment, and of course, having a travel buddy will bring you comfort as well.

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Things to Do Before a Road Trip with Your Pet: 

• Plan your stops: If possible, map out your route to include pet friendly stops for potty breaks. Planning ahead for overnight stays is recommended as well since all hotels don’t accept pets. Keep in mind hotels may charge an additional fee for pets so you may need to budget a little extra money.
• Pack a pet travel bag: Pack a bag that includes all the essentials (leash, feeding/water bowls, toys, treats and poop bags). 
• Immunizations: Make sure your pet is up to date on all shots prior to leaving your duty station. If the need arises to board your pet, you may be required to show proof of vaccination.
• Prepare your vehicle: If you don’t already have one, it’s highly recommended to purchase a seat cover or large blanket to protect your car seats. Be sure to lock your windows and doors to avoid any issues while driving.
• Pet Identification: Ensure your pets contact information is up to date on their collar/tag just in case they get loose or wander off. 

Road trips can be so much fun. Plan a few stops to take in the sights and create memories along the way. This also gives everyone a chance to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Did you know that some pets can experience motion sickness? 

Follow these tips for a stress free and exciting adventure. Can you think of any other ideas?

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Mom usually prepares them for us with the punctuality of a five-star restaurant opening at exactly 0600. Portions measured. Bowls placed. Fresh water topped off like a luxury spa amenity. It’s a system we respect, and we always expect. 

However, on this particular morning, she refused to get out of bed at 6 a.m.

We tried patience. We really did. There was polite pawing. A gentle face sniff. A single, tasteful meow. When those efforts were ignored, we escalated to Phase Two: coordinated ruckus. This included synchronized zoomies across her pillow, a dramatic object push from the nightstand (gravity is fascinating), and a vocal performance that can only be described as “urgent breakfast opera.”

Finally, she stumbled to the kitchen. Victory.

Breakfast isn’t just breakfast, it’s health, routine, and the foundation of a very important day of napping in sunbeams and supervising dust particles.

Today’s Menu: Purina ONE healthy breakfast bowls.

High-quality protein helps support strong muscles for elite-level hallway sprints. Essential vitamins and minerals contribute to bright eyes that can spot a treat bag opening from three rooms away. Omega fatty acids support healthy skin and a glossy coat that looks especially good when dramatically draped over a laptop keyboard.

Mom says she chooses Purina ONE because real meat is the first ingredient and the formulas are crafted to support whole-body health. We say we choose it because it tastes excellent and fuels our very demanding lifestyle.

A healthy diet shows up in the little things:

• Consistent energy (for 3 a.m. parkour)
• Healthy digestion (we’ll spare you details)
• Soft, shiny coats perfect for shedding on dark clothing
• Strong immune support for year-round wellness

Once the bowls were served, peace was restored. The kitchen returned to calm. Mom sipped her coffee. We ate with the focus of professional athletes refueling after competition.

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Some mornings I stare at the leash like it personally offended me. I consider fake sleeping. I consider “just five more minutes” that turns into twenty. Then, there’s a nose in my face. A tail on the mattress. A look that says: we’re doing this whether you’re ready or not. So, here we are. Hello February.

February fitness, influencer edition, minus the matching sets and sunrise runs. This month, movement looks like survival…for me at least. It looks like pulling on leggings you did not plan to wear in public. Coffee in one hand, leash in the other. Cold air hitting your face before your brain is fully awake. Dogs do not care about your burnout. They do not care about winter blues. They do not care about motivation.

They care about outside. and I have noticed something uncomfortable…the days I fight movement the hardest are the days I probably need it the most. So, I stopped trying to be impressive. We walk slow. We stop a lot. My dog inspects every leaf like it’s a crime scene and I do not mind. I scroll my phone more than I should. Some days we turn around early and call it a win. It still counts, because also here is the truth no one really says out loud:

Sometimes, especially in February, I move more consistently for my dog than I ever have for myself. If it were just me, I would negotiate. I would reschedule sometimes. I would say tomorrow instead.

However, my dog does not care about my excuses. Somewhere between the front door and the second block, the fog lifts a little. Not magically. Not dramatically. Just enough. Not every day is an outdoor day. Some days…winter wins…the couch wins…my nervous system wins. So, we get creative. Treats down the hallway. Puzzle toys on the floor. Ball pit chaos in the living room. Running stairs because we are both bored and slightly unhinged. Is it a workout? Who knows. Is my dog happy? Absolutely.

January and February have reminded me that fitness does not have to be aspirational. It can be functional and super messy. It can also be unplanned and the bare minimum sometimes and still meaningful. Right now, it is not about glow-ups. It is about not letting winter swallow you whole, finding one reason to stand up, put on shoes, and go outside, even when you would rather disappear into a blanket. Mine just happens to have four legs and very strong opinions about walk times. So, if you are tired, unmotivated, and slightly over this season…Same. Grab the leash anyway. Not for discipline. Not for progress. Just so you do not spend another day completely still.

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Picture this: sandy beaches, lush green landscapes, and crystal clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. Now imagine experiencing all this with your four-legged companion by your side. The idea of going on holiday with your pet might seem daunting at first, but trust us when we say it’s an experience like no other. From cozy cottages nestled in scenic countryside to pet-friendly resorts that cater to every creature comfort, there’s a world of possibilities waiting for you and your fluffy travel buddy.

So, what exactly can you do on a holiday with your pet? The answer is simple – pretty much anything! Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer relaxing by the poolside, there are countless activities that will keep both you and Fido entertained. Take long walks along picturesque trails, play fetch on sun-kissed beaches, or even try out paddleboarding together! The possibilities are endless when it comes to tailoring a vacation that suits both human and furry interests.

One of the most exciting aspects of holidaying with pets is discovering destinations specifically designed for their enjoyment. From specially curated dog parks where they can socialize and make new friends to hotels offering luxurious spa treatments for pampered pooches – these places truly go above and beyond to ensure a woof-tastic time for everyone involved. Of course, it goes without saying that travelling with pets requires some planning and preparation. Make sure to check the specific requirements of your chosen destination, such as pet-friendly accommodation, leash laws, and vaccination records. Pack essentials like food, water bowls, bedding, toys, and maybe even a cute little outfit for those impromptu photo sessions!

Holidays with your pet are all about creating cherished memories and strengthening the bond you share. So why limit yourself to the traditional notion of vacations? Embrace the opportunity to explore new places together and let your furry friend be a part of every adventure. Holidays with our pets remind us that true happiness lies in embracing life’s simplest joys – and who better to experience them with than our beloved companions? So…pack those bags, grab the leash, and get ready for a holiday filled with wagging tails and endless tail wags!

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Pet Sitting:

• Options
  • Drop-in Care at Your Home
  • House Boarding at Their house.
• Pros
  • Your pet stays in the comfort of your home.
  • House Boarding: You typically know who your pet is staying with.
• Cons
  • Do you feel comfortable with someone coming into your home when you’re not there?
  • If you use drop-in care, will your pet adjust well if they are left alone for an extended amount of time?
  • Will your pet bond with the other animals and family?

Pet Boarding:

• Options
  • Pet Hotels
  • Pet Hospitals
  • Pet Boarding
• Pros
  • Your pet is cared for at a facility. Facilities typically have schedules for feeding and potty breaks.
  • Your pet will have around the clock monitoring/care.
  • Immunizations – All pets must meet the same requirements to be boarded. 
  • The facility may offer camera views for you to check in on your pet.
• Cons
  • You cannot control how many other pets are boarded at the same time.
  • Boarding can be costly.
  • Immunizations – If your pet is not current on their immunizations, they may not be allowed to stay. 
  • You may not have control whether your pet will be caged or allowed to roam free all day.

Most pet owners will agree that their furry friends are just as much a part of the family as the kids. It’s important to keep in mind that pets get stressed and have separation anxiety, as well so preparing as much in advance will help. I highly recommend touring facilities and meeting your pet sitter in ahead of time. You should feel comfortable knowing your pet is in good hands when you leave them. 

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Helping kids care for pets doesn’t have to mean power struggles or chore charts taped to the fridge. Letting them pour kibble, refill the water bowl, or brush out the fuzz from the shepherd’s fall coat becomes more than just a task. It builds consistency. It grows empathy. It gives them a chance to feel proud of something, even if the dog still rolls in leaves five minutes later.

Let’s be real: military life already stretches our time and our wallets. That’s why picking up your favorite Purina products at the Commissary is a solid mom move.

When PCS season hits, or even just a quick holiday trip, your pet is right there in the backseat, drooling on your kid’s backpack and keeping the vibe calm. Giving your child a role in the travel prep builds connection and confidence. Let them pack the treats, update the microchip, or make a checklist for moving day. Bonus tip: toss a travel sized bag of treats in the car for low-mess snack breaks (for the dog… but honestly, your kid might try one too). 

November is all about togetherness, and in a military household, that might look a little different. Maybe you’re planning a Thanksgiving meal early before someone leaves, or maybe you’re setting an extra place at the table over FaceTime. Including pets in these traditions gives kids something joyful to hold onto. Let them bake treats for the dog, write a “thankful for my pet” list, or help choose a new seasonal toy. Even the little rituals help your family stay connected. 

Don’t forget to check those Commissary deals, especially as holiday savings roll in on your favorite Purina items. It’s a simple way to stretch your budget while still showing love to your four-legged MVP.

Military kids grow up side by side through every move, every home, and every season. Each time they cuddle up on the couch or pour kibble into the bowl, your child is learning how to care, how to show up, and how to love big in small ways.  

Want more ways to care for your pets without breaking the bank? Join the Military Pet Club, for rewards, tips, and savings made for military families like yours.

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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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