Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Adventures with Angel Astrid: A Beloved Bridge

Over the years here on our blog, sweet angel pup Astrid showed off lots of the bridges that she loved so much. A creek runs through our neighborhood, and so just about all the walking paths in the area have bridges for crossing the creek. Astrid honestly loved the bridges, not only because they collected the urine of other local dogs, but also because they offered a great view.


Seeing that last photo reminded me of how excited Astrid would get when I'd say, "Do you see the water?" Every time I'd say that when we were on a bridge over the creek, she'd peer into the water, and she was always so happy if there were any ducks or other animals to see. I'm so glad I have these memories with her.

Happy Wednesday, friends!



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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I've been sharing flashback doodles from old spooky summertime series. Currently we've been going through the ones I scribbled up just last year, and today we of course have Astrid's.




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Tip of the Day

Yesterday we gave some tips on how to introduce a new cat to a resident cat. Today, we'll give a bit of an idea on what you can do to get a new cat used to a resident dog, or vice versa. Getting a cat and a dog acquainted with each other can, in some ways, mimic the methods used to introduce two cats to each other. For example, just as with two cats, you can start introducing a cat and dog to each other by getting them used to each other's scent. This can include blocking their view of and access to each other, while allowing them to smell each other through a door. You can also swap pieces of their bedding, so that they become used to each other's scent this way.

Once the new cat is used to their surroundings and to the scent of the resident dog, or vice versa, you can begin introducing the cat and dog to the sight of each other. This can be done through a baby gate, through a screen, or safely from across the room. As needed, you can keep the dog on a leash to ensure a safe introduction. Also try to ensure that the cat is able to be safely restrained, should signs of aggression arise. These first meet-and-greets are likely best done from a distance, with each furbaby being distracted and rewarded for good behavior with treats or toys. This exercise can be repeated for however many days it takes for the cat and dog to act non-aggressive or calm in each other's presence. As progress is made, you can slowly start to decrease the distance between the cat and dog.

Over time, a cat and dog can learn to become friends, to tolerate each other, or simply to ignore each other. Allow for the proper patience and time to get the furbabies safely acquainted. Until they are used to and safe around each other, ensure that their time together is supervised. Even if the cat and dog grow well acquainted and tolerant of each, though, still ensure that each furbaby has their own space to be alone as needed. For example, have cat trees or other similar areas to which the cat can retreat, and a bed or crate for the dog to go should they wish.

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