Puppy Love: Caring Tips for Happy, Well-Behaved Puppies

Puppy Love

These two have my heart. If it isn’t obvious by now, I’m a little obsessed with my dogs. That’s Angel in the background and Charley up front. I never get tired of how much they adore each other. This photo was taken beneath my desk. Angel often hangs out there, and Charley usually naps on his bed in the office while I work. The other night Charley squeezed himself under the desk while Curtis was taping boxes. For some reason, tape or wrapping paper sends Charley into a frenzy — he runs to whoever isn’t taping and scratches at their leg with his front paw. It actually hurts sometimes. I’ve never heard of another dog reacting like that to tape.

Charley had back surgery two and a half weeks ago, and I’m relieved to say he’s improving. They removed his staples last week — you can see his shaved back — and he had his first rehab session on Thursday. It wiped him out; he was clearly sore afterward. Curtis thinks we should skip most of the rehab or do it just twice a month, but the vets recommend twice a week. I’m leaning toward a compromise of once a week for now. It’s hard to watch him in discomfort, but I know rehabilitation helps. Is it similar to human physical therapy — tough at first but worth it in the long run?

Puppy Love

Curtis was giving the dogs French fries — yes, we spoil them and yes, they sometimes get human food. Please don’t report us to the dog police. (Why don’t you see much of Curtis in these photos? This is what I’m allowed to show. He hates pictures and avoids the camera whenever he can.)

Please excuse the messy kitchen in the background. Since around Christmas, Curtis has been working on the flooring in much of the house. The foyer and living room are finished, but part of the kitchen and the dining room still need attention. Next up is the family room. I’d like to find a large kitchen rug because water splashes on the floor frequently — any suggestions for a durable, stylish kitchen rug are welcome.

Things I’m loving lately: flowers, a favorite liquid hand soap, a few pretty accessories, and some simple DIY inspiration. I’ve also been eyeing a pair of cutout ballet flats and a few online projects that make me want to get creative.

Things I want: mint-colored jeans and a particular purse in that color — though the price is steep, it’s on my wish list.

Recipes and projects I want to make soon: potato chip macarons, strawberry-glazed baked doughnuts, gooey butter bars, and a black bean pizza. All of those look delicious and fun to try.

Pinterest boards I’m enjoying right now include seasonal inspiration for spring, everything strawberry, and general recipe and design ideas that keep me motivated in the kitchen and at home.

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