Trash

Buddha? Is that you? Did someone throw away goat cheese?

If you don’t know who Denver the Youtube sensation is yet, you’re missing out on over 60 seconds of smiles. While Denver’s new found stardom is proof that she fared just fine after sneaking those kitty treats, her guilt trip can be used as example that when left to their own devices, dogs will help themselves to just about anything.  While to us the trash is just garbage, to a dog, like ahem… Winnie lets say, it is a holy mecca of all things tempting. Think of all those wrappers that contained delicious desserts, tin foil and of course, the scariest of them all, leftover cooked bones. We can’t express enough how dangerous cooked turkey, chicken, ham and even roast bones can be. Lets be clear, we love bones. Most of us at the Digs give our guys bones several times a week. Strong, raw bones have loads of benefits for dogs and we consider them a very important part of their raw diets and can be a great way to keep a dog occupied while the family eats. When a bone is cooked, the composition is completely changed. The brittle bones are more likely to splinter and that can lead to a bevy of problems including blockages.

Sugar Free Treats

Sugar replacements like Xylitol can be very toxic to pets when consumed. Although it is apparently perfectly fine for human consumption, it’s not so sweet for dogs. It can cause severe liver damage, hyperglycemia or worse… kill them.

A Couple of My Favorite Things . . . chocolate and alcohol

Do we really need to go over this? Yes, people come in all the time and talk about how much their dogs love chocolate in small amounts. Chocolate and dogs do not mix. Even a small amount can lead to annoyances like diarrhea or vomiting. The folks over at Washington State University put out a guide of how much chocolate a dog would have to consume to be toxic. Amounts are based on the 44 pound dog.

Unsweetened Cocoa (dark chocolate) . . . 3 oz

Baking Chocolate . . . 5 oz

Semi Sweet Chocolate . . . 7 oz

Milk Chocolate . . . 20 oz

Keep Fido away from the nog. Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, changes blood sugar levels and slows heart rate.

Decorations

Oh, the dangers lurking with those Christmas trees. No, the needles aren’t going to pose a problem but all the decor could. Let me share a little story about a Hot Diggity gal that shall remain nameless. Said girl doesn’t have a Christmas tree. She doesn’t trust her dogs, knowing full well that they will have their way with one if it were in the house. This particular lovely employee does however, do stockings. In an effort to jazz them up she thought she’d buy a couple of ornaments to attach for extra festiveness. One of the ornaments lasted maybe a total of 5 minutes before one of the dogs, thinking it was a ball, jumped up and grabbed it. Luckily, it didn’t shatter in his mouth and was able to be safely removed before causing any more mayhem.

Keep all candles out of tail-wag reach.

Anyone who has ever had to assist a dog scooting across a lawn knows what can happen when their dog ingests rope, string or long RED hair. Any of those items can cause an intestinal obstruction requiring surgery. During the holidays our trees are decked out with many similar materials such as tinsel, ribbon and garlands which to a dog may read “that looks interesting” instead of “DANGER DANGER DANGER”.

Let me share another little story with you. I remember one particular Christmas my brother Ryan and I were helping our Dad string the lights on the tree. We were merrily decorating away not realizing that little Sean, a fat and happy toddler at the time, was gnawing away the the plugged in lights. Oops. Luckily, he didn’t get burned or electrocuted but I’ll always remember incident as a narrowly escaped disaster. Just like babies, dogs –especially puppies, may think that lights or electrical cords are their very own personal chew toys.

Contrary to popular belief poinsettias aren’t actually toxic to pets. Ingesting may cause some irritation but the real threats are mistletoe and holly. Make sure you keep your Martha Stewart-esque decor out of poochie’s snout reach.

Fruitcakes — of the two legged variety

They’re heeeeeere!

I doubt that fruitcake is actually dangerous (unless it’s made it xyitol!). The fuitcakes I’m referring to are the less dog savvy family members that come to visit during throughout the season. You know, the kind of people that hold a door open just long enough for your Husky to escape. Or children that think chasing a scared dog throughout the house is t

he best game in the world. Everyone has that one uncle (or brother, or father) who thinks it’s hilarious to watch Sparky knock back a Budweiser. Make sure you set ground rules for how your guests are able to interact with your dog if they will be free roaming. Otherwise, make sure each pet has a safe, calm zone, whether it’s a crate or a room. Don’t forget, sometimes all the commotion can be just as stressful on a pet as it can on the host.

We compiled a list of our favorite things that keep our dogs busy and out of trouble (most of the time). You can check it out here.

Wishing you a very merry season!

Your friends at Hot Diggity

Exercise

The first thing to remember is that an exercised dog is a tired dog. The more tired they are, the less likely they are to get into mischief. If you have company coming, plan an outing. It’s amazing how often that can become a highlight of a visit. Whenever my brothers and I get together, we always plan a dog walk. My brothers are hosting Christmas this year (really, it’s true), and before any feasting is to be done we are going for a hike, with all three dogs, in Morton Park in Plymouth. If off-leash walks aren’t for you, make a special trip to the dog park. If exercise isn’t really an option, try to find something else mentally stimulating.

Busy Toys

I think I’ve mentioned this toy in 9 out of 10 posts. I LOVE THE DOG DIZZY! This toy keeps Winnie occupied all day long. She’ll chase it around the store on a rainy day and it keeps her out of my hair. I load it up with Pecks treats from The Honest Kitchen. They’re buffalo and low calorie, so they can have a healthy sized handful. If your dog eats kibble, you can put that in there too.

Kong has the classic version and Wobbler version. The Wobbler, like the Dizzy, dispenses treats or kibble when knocked around. Pretty much everyone is familiar with the classic Kong. Peanut butter is go-to stuffing, Pet Fairy Noshers is a healthier option and coconut milk ice cream is a fan favorite in my house. Any those work best when frozen.

Chews

If I need a few minutes to myself to eat my dinner in peace, I give my guys a marrow bone. A nice raw, meaty, frozen marrow bone. Each dog works on it for about 40 minutes to an hour then they switch, switch again, then again. Next thing I know, my dinner is finished, dishes done, laundry folded and we’re all ready for a nap. I prefer to feed my guys center cut bones, they’re pretty solid and hold up to strong jaws.

Wag Bones are a great “real bone” alternative. They are made from all natural gum rubber in the USA. They come in Cashew, Pistachio, Peanut Butter and as we like to call it Non-Chocolate flavors. Dogs love them and we love that they’re a safe alternative to plastic bones. Of course, if you prefer the real thing, we have world class USA sourced goodies — odor-free bullies, ginormous pig ears and super glamorous (not) beef tracheas.

Of course, we can’t forget the jackpot of all chews, elk antlers. These things are absurdly strong and long-lasting. They break down differently then any other kind of dog chew. The fossilized vein is loaded with calcium and is great for hips and joints. If your dog gets bored with his antler, you can slather some olive oil on it to get them started

again. Vegetarians rejoice, no elk are harmed in the shedding of the antler!

Try all three of these things and your company will be impressed with just how well behaved your dog is. You may be impressed too!

Formerly made by Four Preppy Paws and now made by Hot Diggity, these collars are handmade right here on Cape Cod! Custom monkey ribbon on heavy cotton webbing makes this collar not only super durable, but super cute!

OK OK so the pictures aren’t perfect yet. It’s the holiday season and to say we’re busy is an understatement! But to keep these adorable, amazing dog collars and leashes from you all because we didn’t have time to take a fancy photo seemed, well, it just didn’t seem right!

We want to be sure your dog wakes up on Christmas morning with a brand new, made by Hot Diggity, right here on Cape Cod, collar and leash!

Do you remember Four Preppy Paws? Since 2003 they made the most durable and cutest custom ribbon dog collars and in July, we acquired their company when Heidi decided to sell Four Preppy Paws and focus more on her other business, Dogwood Cottage.

We are so excited to be able to continue to make these collars and leashes because they last, are built tough with thick cotton webbing, and are so cute with their custom ribbon you won’t find anywhere else, they’re perfect for the lap dog too!

Each week until fully stocked, we will be rolling out another ribbon design. Right now we have monkeys & hats and mittens and will soon have anchors, hearts, boats and buoys, bloom, frogs, turtles, alligators, flip flops, stars, golf carts, ACK, Nantucket, Cape Cod and 4 brand new designs coming this winter!

Now through Christmas Eve, get 20% off any new collar or leash when you bring to either store, a clean, gently used collar or leash to donate. We will donate all collected items to the MSPCA in Centerville on Christmas Eve day.

Collars and leashes are available at both Hot Diggity in Mashpee Commons and Hot Diggity Dog Wash & Boutique in Dennisport and of course, right here online.

Now start shopping!!!

Eats.

The first thing people see when they walk into the Digs is the decorative treat counter. I have to admit that during the holidays it’s especially hard to resist the yummy goodness that looms temptingly above my head for 8 hours a day. Puppy Piper hasn’t learned quite yet how to resist such beauty and is going crazy when behind the counter. We make quite the pair, the sniper and the snatcher. Anywho, I’ve spent most of the year preparing for this season. I’ve spent countless hours taste-testing the yummiest treats from around North America to make sure our holiday display is our best to date. Treats came in from all over, Canada, Colorado and even everyone’s favorite local bakery Preppy Puppy. We also have plenty of our famous odor free USA sourced bully sticks available. Antlers are on their way.  Let’s face it, we’re dogs. If you want to make us grin from jowl to jowl people, get us a treat.

Organic knit trio

Toys.

” A lump of COAL!?” the babble ball yells from across the store as I write this. ‘Tis the season for TOYS! And boy, do we have lots of toys. Tough, cute, interactive, singing, squeaking and annoying (cue Henrietta) toys everywhere! My personal favorites this year are the sweet organic cotton toys. They are hand-knit and are a perfect size for dogs like me that like to run around the house squeaking maniacally. We have lots of reindeer, Santas, snowmen and gingerbread in stock guaranteed to spread good dog cheer.

Now, that’s a perfect pet stocking

Stuffers.

Cute stocking, check. Everyone is always asks what makes a good stocking stuffer. Okay, no one actually asks us that but that’s because we put them all together in a big display with a big sign that says “STOCKING STUFFERS”. It’s a great time to stock up on the essentials; rolls of poop bags, pet tag silencers, new clickers, night-time blinkers. You know, the doggie equivalent to socks and toothpaste.

Haha, Coop looks ridiculous!

Wears.

Barney’s and Neiman Marcus can eat their hearts out, we have the BEST dog clothes and accessories right now. USA made waterproof coats, washable cashmere sweaters, bowties, scarves and booties. Also, we have an assortment of Santa, reindeer and elf holiday costumes. If you’re more Carhartt than couture we still have the right gear for you. Reflective vests, winter coats and washable wool sweaters are guaranteed to keep you functionally warm, dry and visible this season.

My signature collar, holiday edition.

Humans.

Most of the people on my list are getting framed pictures of ME. Okay, maybe not everyone…. gasp… wants a picture of me for Christmas. Maybe they want one of you and we have the perfect frames for gifting. Also perfect are our locally crafted shell ornaments. They are all the rage this season! We have many breeds, nondescript breeds and even some cats are available. We searched high and low for many years in search of nautical themed dog gifts and are so happy to have finally found them! These shells are guaranteed to put a smile on any dog, cat and Cape lover’s face.

Clockwise from top: Winnie (me), Trix, Rocco, Coop

There’s lots more to talk about but the store is getting busy and I have to get back to work. One more thing I’ll mention is that due to the busy holiday season, Mum and Nicole slacked off a bit and weren’t able to get any of the new stuff online. If you’re one of our favorite out-of-towners, give us a call and we’ll be happy to ship any of the mentioned goods out to you in time to open up Christmas morning.

Wishing everyone the merriest of holidays,

XOXO

Winnie

Okay, I am definitely contesting some of the top 10 names. Sure, I know some Lolas, some Sadies and some Rockies but they’re outnumbered ten-folds by Baileys, Gracies and Lillys. I’m not joking, I checked our ID forms. I’ll admit I may be a smidgen jealous that Coop made the list and I didn’t. So, here’s the deal for 2013 . . . we’re going to make Winnie #1. Start trending!

Until next time,

XOXO

Winnie

This week only, get a FREE gingerbread cologne
to take home with every full service grooming.

Your dog will be looking and smelling fabulous for Santa and throughout the holidays!

And as always, each groom comes with a free embellishment for your pup: from holiday bow ties to collar & hair bows, it’s your choice.

Call Hot Diggity Dog Wash & Boutique to book your groom and your picture with Santa at 508-258-0208.

coconut oil is back!

Alas, the coconut oil that has all us gals and our pups addicted has returned to the shelves of the Digs. We add coconut oil to our dogs food, to our food, we use it as a moisturizer, as a hair conditioner, as sunscreen (yes! sunscreen) for cooking, for smoothies and the list goes on and on. Because it is made up primarily of medium chain fatty acids, it is more likely to be used as energy than stored as fat. In fact, a few studies in the 1940s showed that farmers tried to use coconut oil to fatten their livestock, only to find it was helping them to slim down.

Here are the top reasons you should be giving your dog coconut oil:

Skin conditions:

• Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis,and itchy skin
• Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
• Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
• Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
• Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
• Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

Digestion:

• Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
• Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
• Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
• Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing

Immune system, Metabolic function, Basic health

• Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
• Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
• Helps prevent or control diabetes
• Helps reduce weight, increases energy
• Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

Our 100% pure, kosher, organic

virgin coconut oil is so good, we buy it from a human food company, so you can treat yourself as well

There are a couple of good things about not having enough time to blog, actually there’s about 12 large boxes full of many good things. Make sure to stop in soon to check it all out and give me a treat.

Until next time,

XOXO

Winnie

East Coasters: stay home, stay safe and love those pups!