Did you know that this week is National Police Week? While there is sometimes a stigma attached to officers, today take a moment to thank the men, women and dogs who work everyday to protect and serve.


At P.L.A.Y., we're particularly fond of four-legged service members. These dogs go through extensive training and not only play a huge part in their partner and handler's life but also in the community they work for. K-9s are often fitted with ballistic vests, receive police IDs and badges, and are official sworn officers. Additionally, K-9s killed in the line of duty are also honored with a full police funeral.

In this video, we get a peek inside the training and lives of both K9s and their handlers.

This week, take an extra moment to thank your local police officers for all that they do. Whether a handshake, a friendly wave, or a tip of your hat, let them know that they are appreciated!

By Play Admin 53 hours ago 0 Comments

Mother's Day is this Sunday and if you haven't already gotten something for Mom, have no fear, we've got some great last-minute ideas for you!

Flowers are always a favorite with women, especially moms. Pick some from the garden, visit the farmers market, or head to your local grocer. You're sure to find some gorgeous in-season blooms that Mom will love. We particularly love tulips this time of year, not only do they smell good they are so bright and colorful!

Get cooking! Whether it's breakfast in bed, a lunchtime barbeque, or a mouthwatering dessert, moms can appreciate the time and effort you put into making something yummy. This Creamy Peach Tart from Food & Wine Magazine comes out looking good and tasting even better (I added strawberries for a pop of color, but any fruit in season should work just as well)! For the cooking-challenged, boxed cake mix or brownies are super easy to make and still are homemade!

 

Give the gift of giving. Depending on what causes are near and dear to your momma's heart, a donation to her favorite charity or organization is a wonderful gesture. Mom will appreciate your thoughtfulness and be so proud to have raised such a generous kid. If it isn't obvious, we are partial towards rescue groups and shelters; the Petfinder Foundation is definitely on of our favorites!

 

Last but not least, don't forget any dog mama's out there either! A yummy treat, an extended trip to the dog park, or some belly scratches should do just fine.

Hopefully this list has given some of you procrastinators (myself included) some good ideas! What did you get your mom? Leave us a comment below!

By Play Admin 6 days ago at 1:54 pm 0 Comments

It's almost summer and for most of us that means... VACATION! When flying with a four legged family member it's important to be prepared, so we've compiled a few tips to make your trip easy and stress-free.

  1. Get to the vet! It's important that your pup have a clean bill of health before traveling, especially on a plane. Some breeds have difficulty flying, so make sure to get your vet's opinion and recommendations. Additionally, ask for a health certificate and current vaccination records for your pup (some airlines and destinations will require this - make sure you do your research before traveling).
  2. Identification! Losing luggage can ruin a trip... losing your pet can ruin more than just that! Make sure your pet has ID tags with all of your current information on it (and information on how to contact you while you're traveling). Also, make sure he has a collar that is fitted, you don't want that snagging on anything.
  3. First Class! If your pup can't fly in the cabin with you, make sure your pup's crate is big enough for her to stand up, turn around and lie down in. If possible, exercise your pup before you fly, that why she's burned off any excess energy and can relax. Don't let your pup travel on a full stomach and try to take a potty break as close to take off as possible. Keep her crate comfy by bringing her favorite blanket/mat (Chill Pads are perfect for this!) and toy, and make sure she has access to water (enough to keep her hydrated, but not fill up her bladder).
  4. Reward and praise! Once you're reuinited after the flight, try not to make a huge scene and overexcite your pet. Instead, reward him with lots of praise and some yummy treats.

Do you have any trips coming up? We'd love to hear about it - leave us a comment below!

By Play Admin 10 days ago at 12:26 pm 0 Comments

By now it should be pretty obvious that we're obsessed with pugs. So when we came across Bah Humpug, a blog inspired by an adorable pug named Sunny and her favorite toy bunny, we fell in love.


Bah Humpug features ridiculously cute illustrations created by Sunny's mom. The blog recently got a lot of attention because of this awesome pug alphabet she created.

All of the pictures are so fun; they range from fairy tale (see Repugzel), to everyday life (see Sunny Day), and even to current events (see Hunger Games, a Pug Version). I could look at her posts all day, and if you ask me, it would be a day well spent! So far, our favorite definitely has to be Brown Noser. Cause everyone just hates (or in this case, loves) a brown noser! :)

And to get your daily fix of all things pugs, Bah Humpug has a Facebook Page now so make sure to visit and "Like" it! Which pictures are your favorites? Leave us a comment below!

By Play Admin 15 days ago at 1:02 pm 0 Comments

Momo's got it ruff...


Luckily, she's got a Bamboo Lounge Bed AND a Dog's Life Lounge Bed to rest on. 
It's hard being this cute.

By Play Admin 22 days ago at 9:51 am 0 Comments