Did you hear? Love is in the air, even more so than usual with Valentine’s Day just around the corner! While here at Pawsh we like to celebrate love year round, we’re especially fond of this adorable little holiday nestled in the depths of winter. So if you’d like to get your pet friend something special for this occasion, we’ve rounded up a few fun items!

To begin with a Love and Peace Collar that is machine washable, which means it can be worn every single day of the year! What’s a collar without a pretty pink leash to go with it? (Sorry boys, but sometimes pink just has to rule.) We are fond of the Post Leash due to its mail theme — mail, the thing through which love letters inevitably arrive.

A heart shaped bowl will dress up a romantic kibble meal that should only be followed by rigourous play time with a candy-heart inspired toy. And because all good days should come to an end with a relaxing snooze, a Martha Stewart Cuddler Bed seals the occasion as perfectly as a kiss!

Of course, Pawsh is no stranger to pink things. In case you missed it be sure to visit our “Pretty in Pink” spread on page 32 of Heart Song for some other creative Valentine’s Day gift ideas! Oh, and just because we can’t help ourselves, here are even some more pink pet accessories to drool over this morning! Rory just might be getting one of those candy heart toys. What will you give your pooch?

This month’s free Pawsh poster needs little explaining. Just watch a dog greet his or her person after a moment or two of absence and you will see what we mean. Don’t delay! Be sure to get your poster here!

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Feeling under the weather today (thank you flu season) so have made a point to work from under the covers as much as possible with a cup of tea by my side. It’s funny how dogs never seem to mind these sorts of days. They are completely happy to nuzzle up and have a lazy day punctuated by belly rubs. Here are some items I wish I had while feeling like this:

1.  A grumpy mug.

2.  A funny little get well soon card.

3.  This hilarious rom-com.

4.  A way to bring the outside in.

5.  Pajamas like this but for humans.

What are your favourite items to have while not feeling your best? I hope you all have a lovely weekend! See you on Monday!

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Raising a dog is a lot of work, especially if all of a sudden you find yourself in the single pet-parent role. Having your loved one leave town on business or for a trip can greatly disrupt your little family’s rhythm and leave one person feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of being the sole provider of walks, kibble, grooming and playtime.

It is important to keep your dog’s schedule as relatively ‘normal’ as possible should your partner be absent for a time, but doing so can be a challenge. So here are some tips to help you juggle and keep your dog from pining:

1.  Set your alarm half an hour early in the morning. This will allow you to spend a bit of extra time with your dog before heading out for work. Talk a stroll, play a game of fetch or just cuddle. Your dog will appreciate the extra you time.

2.  Buy a new toy for your dog and only give it to them when you leave the house. This will keep them amused despite the empty house. This toy is especially fun!

3.  Hire a dog walker to take your dog out at lunchtime, especially if he is used to having somebody check in during the afternoon. This will help your dog maintain a regular exercise regime and give them some more attention.

4.  Play with your dog when you get home from work. You may be tired and wish more than ever that your significant other was around to tag team the energetic meet and greet, but a simple game of tug-of-war will allow you to sit down and still engage with your dog. Play is a wonderful way to connect and reinforces affection.

5. Create a new activity for you and your dog. Although both of you will be missing the other pet parent, this time apart can be a wonderful opportunity for some bonding time. Take your dog to a new dog park, bake them a special treat or rough house with them — do something beyond your usual routine to make your time together special.

Do not fret if your significant other leaves you in charge of your dog’s schedule. Instead embrace the opportunity for some quality one-on-one time. Do you do anything special with your dog when the Mr. or Mrs. is out of town? We would love to hear your stories!