#id choose all of this instead of a sore throat any day so it's all good

[akmongs]

for @harringroveweekoflove‘s day 4 prompt: school dance

billy and steve ditch prom. it's steve who suggests it, curled up against his side in the backseat of the beamer while they're sharing a smoke.

"you sure you don’t wanna miss out?" 

"why would i care about going if i can't go with you?" steve says, looking genuinely confused, like it's the simplest thing in the world. and maybe it is, but billy's still getting used to this. to the unfiltered, unambiguous way steve shows him and tells him that he cares. that he chose him and keeps choosing him. 

it wasn't always like this. this fragile thing between them kept safe under layers of teasing and flirting and sarcasm keeps getting realer, and billy knows he wouldn't want it any other way, but his heart still hasn't gotten the memo that it needs to stop growing three sizes every time steve surprises him with so much honesty.

can't stop his lips from pulling up at the corners either, a soft smile creeping its way to his eyes, helpless. he steals the cigarette from steve's fingers with his free hand to hide it, the other buried in the soft hair at his nape, tracing lazy patterns on the side of his neck. he takes a long drag and blows the smoke up, shuffling imperceptibly closer, head thrown back against the leather seat but eyes cast low on steve's face, his pale skin and pink lips and long brown lashes.

"so whatd'ya wanna do," he murmurs, presses his lips to steve's hairline and leaves barely-there kisses with each syllable. steve tilts his head up, nose bumping billy's as he shrugs, eyes low and smile easy, relaxed. billy, cigarette still balanced between his fingers, pushes steve’s hair back from his forehead and tugs a bit, snorts at the way his nose scrunches up and steve pulls at his necklace, fingers curled around the pendant. he rests that hand on steves’s knee then, his long legs thrown on top of his, and steve holds his wrist and strokes the back of it with his thumb.

"my house will be empty", he says, the as usual left hanging in the air. "we can go there, or we can come back here." he gestures with his chin at the car window and the quiet surroundings of the quarry. steve's hand pulls at his wrist and billy lifts his arm to bring the cigarette to his mouth, steve’s lips pressing softly against the pads of his fingers. billy stares at them as they wrap around the stick and suck.

"everyone will be at school anyway," steve continues, blowing the smoke to the side. billy drags his eyes back up to steve's, to the line of his brows. "as long as we got music and booze everywhere's good."

"sounds like you got it all figured out," billy says with a soft chuckle. he brings the cigarette back to his mouth and takes another quick drag, exhales from his nose like a dragon. "do i have to rent a tux?"

steve grins up at him, devilish, legs shuffling on top of his. "i mean, i’d love to see it," and his big doe eyes are so bright and flirty it’s dumb, dumb like the big dopey smile billy feels growing on his face that steve leans in to kiss, just a short thing that has billy chasing his lips for more, his breath hitching. "but don't bother, baby. wouldn’t last long anyway," he mumbles, raising a brow and tugging billy in by his necklace.

"oh yeah?" he purrs, amused and warm and ridiculously pleased.

"yeah," steve breathes and kisses him, hands coming up to cradle his face. billy sighs into the kiss, lips closing over steve's upper lip and sucking, tracing it with his tongue. he tosses the cigarette out of the window blindly and wraps his fingers under his thigh, shuffling to lay steve on his back and lie between his legs, steve pliant under him, all soft breaths and slow kisses.

and they already got off before, could do it again, but billy doesn't feel like he needs to. it's something steve's taught him, kissing for the sake of it. making out for the sake of it, because it feels good, not just as a means to an end. and he likes kissing steve so much, wants to do it for hours, 'til he feels lightheaded and silly, lips kiss-bruised and sore, and steve would let him, does let him, happy and enthusiastic (and his, all his).

so two weeks later, steve steals liquor from mr. harrington's cabinet, billy buys a six-pack at the gas station out of town that never id-checks him, and they ditch prom and drive to the quarry. it's empty, the music plays loud from the car’s radio and echoes, and steve smiles at him drunk and blinding like he hung the fucking moon as they share cigarettes and alcohol and kisses and laughter. steve wears a deceptively simple white button-down that probably costs more than billy's whole outfit, and billy spent an extra half-hour on his hair only for steve to ruin it in ten minutes.

"you made a fucking mixtape?" he asks, incredulous, when steve asks him to get a cassette from the glove compartment.

"of course," he says with an easy shrug, hair bouncing in his eyes, and billy looks at him, looks at the sh&bh 1985 prom written in black marker on the cover of the cassette tape, and really has to hold back from saying something stupid like i love you, like i don’t know how i got so lucky.

steve steps closer, and if it wasn't silly, billy'd think he looked shy. "no offence, babe, but nothing you like can actually be danced to." he takes the tape from billy's hands and stretches into the car to pop it in the radio, one knee on the driver's seat. steve turns the volume up as a synthy beat fills the air and stumbles back out of the car. he clears his throat and takes billy's hand, pulls him in with a smile, flush against him, chest to chest, hips to hips, and billy can only go with it, heart threatening to beat out of his chest.

steve sways him, bobs his head, starts singing along to the song and billy can't help but laugh as the chorus hits and steve goes into an impressive falsetto, never breaking eye contact like he really means what he’s singing, how they’re head over heels in love, but making the dorkiest scrunched-up face billy’s probably ever seen. laughs, head thrown back as steve sings to him, the ringing of your laughter it sounds like a melody, to once-forbidden places we'll go for a while, hands around his waist in a slow dance, the softest smile pulling up his cheeks, big brown eyes looking at billy with something like wonder as he starts chuckling himself.

and billy can't believe what he's doing, dancing with a boy in hawkins, indiana, where he thought he'd either die of be killed, where instead he found a boy that loves him and makes him laugh and makes him feel like the beginning of his life is right here, in this moment, with fucking alphaville playing, wrapped in steve harrington's arms.

"you’re a fucking sap," he says and means i love you, and steves leans in, foreheads touching, noses bumping, smiles brushing in a kiss that says i know.

[wouri]

i forgot to write this here but i’m back!! thank you to everyone who left wishes i love nya’ll sm omg

but ye i got back but i got sick too so DABS haha man so that’s why i’ve been mia hi ho i’ve been napping the day away yo

[searchingforenadi]

bleeding on the floor is still a safety hazard

aSK and you shall rECIEVE

i’m surprised more than three people enjoyed this subpar fic, but that only means y’all have to endure more.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6

the brief summary: Your customers won’t stop bleeding in your shop. You realize this might be a problem. (second person!OC, TYL).

vii.

You’ve gone almost another month without any incidents and the moment you think this, you realize you must have jinxed yourself.

Gokudera grits his teeth, breathing out heavily and a pale sheen to his skin.

“Two,” he bites out, “coffees.”

You’d be flattered at how determined your regulars are, but you’re only mildly alarmed instead. 

You scan his upper torso - no visible injuries from what you can see. Choosing not to comment, you get started on the drinks. 

Swiftly, you pass over the cups and accept the cash dutifully. It’s clear he’s in pain and you won’t be the one keeping him from getting some help. 

Admirably, Gokudera makes it to the door before falling down with a defeated slump. You watch as the coffee spills majestically across the tiled floor. 

There is a long pause. 

Eventually, you have enough sense to grab a mop and, walking around the counter, approach Gokudera’s prone form. 

You look to the left. There is a trail of red lining the floor.

You look back to Gokudera. There is a switchblade jabbed inside his leg.

A wordless noise escapes your throat. 

“I,” you begin to say, bringing a hand to your face. “I am not qualified to deal with this.”

viii. 

The first thing you do is address the (possibly) dying man on your floor. 

Your muscles from kneading dough work in your favor as you flip Gokudera over to his back. He’s breathing, luckily, and it looks his wounded leg isn’t letting out a ton of blood.

Still, you’re nearly tempted to charge him through the roof for all the trouble.

You mutter an apology and pat him down - and find nothing. No phone, no ID. Just a blank wallet with several bills.

Mopping up the spilled coffee, you consider your options. Should you call the police? The emergency hotline? Grab a taxi to the nearest hospital?

You wipe down the floor as you are forced to admit that your regulars, your very well paying regulars, just might be on the wrong side of the law.

Is it a bad idea, then, to contact local authorities? Would Gokudera’s supposed gang be upset with you, then take those emotions out on you in a very harmful, unproductive way?

You need answers, and you needed them twenty minutes ago.

Crouching down, you check his pulse again and once again consider your (nonexistent) options. Rush hour will begin in an hour, but you know customers will trickle in at any time now. 

“Right,” you say aloud. With a grimace, you grab Gokudera under his arms and haul him into the kitchens.

This is the most unsanitary thing you’ve done in your entire career, but you’re most likely panicking, so this can be an exception. 

You drag him into the supply closet, being careful with the knife stuck in his leg. Peering into the dark, musty room, you give a sympathetic wince and dump him - as gently as possible - on the floor. 

Grabbing a roll of toilet paper, you set it under his lifeless head, before studying the blade sticking like a sore thumb.

It’s probably bad form to leave it in there, but you’re the last person to know what the appropriate response is to knife wounds. You pull out a thin pack of bandages from a cabinet - you use these when you burn your fingers on the oven. 

Apologizing again, you wrap the bandages around Gokudera’s leg, around the knife, as best you can. 

Minutes later, you stand, surveying your admittedly shoddy work. 

You’re relatively sure you have approached this situation in the worst way possible, but there’s still blood in your shop and the clock’s ticking before some unsuspecting customer walks in. 

Sorry, you think again, and close the door firmly shut. 

ix. 

An hour passes, leaving you to check on Gokudera as often as you can. He’s still alive, which is good, but still unconscious and with a knife in his leg - which is not so good.

The door opens right as you hand over a box of cake to a customer. It’s Yamamoto, eyes set and shoulders tense. 

You have never been so glad to see one of your regulars. 

“Hi,” you say, passing back some change to another customer. 

Yamamoto smiles, though it doesn’t reach his eyes. “Hey! The usual for me.”

You return the smile. What’s the best way to tell your customer that his friend is unconscious and bleeding in your supply closet?

Packing up a slice of tiramisu, you accept the bills from him over the counter, before leaning slightly forward.

“Uh,” you say, trying your best to look very casual. “So, I have something that belongs to you.”

Yamamoto raises an eyebrow as he accepts the boxed cake. “Oh?”

You rack your brain for a set of words that would be appropriate and not alarming, and fall short. 

“Just,” you run a hand through your hair and glance around the shop. It looks empty enough. “Follow me? Please?”

Bemusedly, he follows you, cake and sword, into the kitchens. He glances around the room before joining you at the supply closet.

You clear your throat.

“I would like to start by saying that I appreciate the dedication,” you tell him. It’s important to show your customers how much you value them. “But this is a little too much.”

Then, with little fanfare, you swing open the door.

There is a long silence.

Something in the air relaxes, a sort of tension you hadn’t noticed until now. 

Yamamoto steps into the supply closet, humming in interest. 

“This explains a lot,” he murmurs, prodding a hand around Gokudera’s wound. 

You wince at the poor bandage work. “Yeah, sorry. Should I have called an ambulance?”

He lets out a laugh. “No, this is fine.”

You join him into the closet, crouching down by his side.

Yamamoto turns to face you, something thoughtful in his eyes. “Do you have a backdoor?”

“... I do,” you say, feeling the atmosphere shift into something exponentially more shady and suspect.

He studies you carefully, briefly, and then smiles. “Great! Let me make a quick phone call.”

“Okay,” you say, a little too late, as he walks out the door. Glancing back at Gokudera’s still form, it suddenly occurs to you - does this make you an accomplice? Does stashing the body of a possible gang member make you an accomplice? 

Did you just break the law?

x. 

In a matter of minutes, a sleek, black car drives up to your backdoor and Gokudera is promptly shoved into the backseat. 

“Thanks for this,” Yamamoto says, completely ignoring the men in black suits that strap Gokudera in with a seat belt.

“Well, I couldn’t leave him on the floor like that,” you tell him, still reeling from the possibility that you might be a criminal. 

Yamamoto laughs, brown eyes brightening. “That’s true.”

He leaves with the car not long after, waving a cheery goodbye. 

You wave back, before heading back into the shop. 

Standing in the kitchens, head buzzing, you dig your hands into your hair - and release a wordless shriek.

xi. 

You continue the week on near auto-pilot, running through the motions for every customer.

Technically speaking, you argue, you haven’t done anything wrong. In fact, you could even claim complete ignorance. Your regulars have never shared their occupation with you - it’s entirely possible Gokudera and Yamamoto are simple salesmen at a local store. 

Even beyond those unlikely ideas, your dad used to remind you about the importance of keeping a good relationship with criminal authorities. 

You used to think he was exaggerating his childhood in southern Italy, but now, it’s clear you had been the fool all along.

After another few days of running your mind in circles, you throw in the proverbial towel. You’ll worry about your impending arrest when it actually comes around.

That afternoon, your door opens to Gokudera, walking into the shop with only the slightest of limps.

“Hi,” you say politely. It’s nice to know that your efforts, at least, had not led to someone’s death. “The usual?”

Gokudera tugs at his tie before shoving his hands into his pockets. “Yeah, sure.”

You take this as a sign that you should not bring up last week. 

Pouring the coffee into a cup, you accept the cash (cash, you suddenly think, they always pay in cash) and hand over the drink.

“It’s good to see you again,” you tell him seriously, as he takes the cup. It’s the closest thing to a warning you can give, because you’ve cleaned up more blood this year than you probably ever should have.

Gokudera pauses from taking a sip of his coffee.

“... yeah,” he says gruffly. “Thanks.”

You blink as he stalks out the door. 

Suddenly, you feel as if your words have been taken completely out of context.

xii. 

That night, an enormous, gift-wrapped fruit basket is delivered right at your doorstep. 

“... the hell?” you prod the plastic wrapping - the ribbon tied on top ruffles in the wind. 

This… is a lot of fruit. You have never seen this much fruit in your entire life. 

You haul the fruit basket inside your apartment. It takes up most of your kitchen counter. 

The size of the basket is a statement in itself, but now you're stuck because how the hell are you going to use up all this fruit?

You glance up to the ribbon on top and notice a small card tied through it. With some effort, you remove it without sending several pounds of fruit tumbling onto the ground. 

Inside the card, it reads -

Thank you for the help. - Tsuna. 

You pause, and bring the card closer to your face, squinting at the words.

Why, you wonder, is Tsuna sending you a fruit basket when Gokudera had been the one to get shanked?

-o-o-o-o-o-

no physical sign of Tsuna, which is sad, but he’s a little busy with his other occupation. on the brighter side, how else will you get closer with the local mafia if you don’t smuggle at least one (1) body? regardless, MC is now envisioning their hypothetical journey into a double-life in crime.

it’s nice to see that i’m not the only person with this brand of dumbass humor, but, guys - still. 

[purplesurveys]

525

This survey is literally called Adult Survey so let’s see just how bad I am at being one 👉😎👉 What grocery store do you shop at the most? My mom does most of her shopping in SM supermarkets, but sometimes she’ll stick with Freshto.

Which stovetop burner do you use the most? Uhhhh I haven’t used the stove in a while, especially since it almost exploded in my face the last time I used it – but I used to go with the rightmost one since it was the largest, and it fit the pan that I typically used. Do you use a dishwasher or wash dishes by hand? We wash dishes by hand here. I can’t name you anyone who actually bought themselves a dishwasher here in the Philippines.

What color is your favorite laundry basket? Idk, I don’t have a favorite. What color was your first car? White. If we’re talking about the car bought by my parents.

What was your first job? Never had one yet. What is the best job you've had? What is the best pharmacy near you? Not sure about the best, but we have one right across the village that we head to. Do you use public transportation? NO. Public transport in this country is an embarrassment, a joke, and one of the reasons I’m hell-bent on moving out entirely. If you ever needed a country that has trains regularly break down every week (forcing its passengers to walk to their destinations even when they’re nowhere near), trains with poor air conditioning, smoke-belching jeepneys, buses driven by murderous drivers, and public transportation that all in all will force you to wake up 3 hours earlier and STILL end up late to school/work, the Philippines is for you. Which bank do you use? I don’t have any sort of card yet.

Do you have a credit card? ^ What is your favorite fast food restaurant? As questionable as every branch of theirs smells like, I have to give the crown to KFC. What do you want to name your kids? Olivia and Mia are pretty much locked in for me. Still clueless about boy names. How many tattoos do you have? No tattoos. What year did you graduate high school? 2016. Three years, but it’s felt like forever ago. What chore do you hate the most? I haaaaate washing dishes. Thankfully Gabie loves doing it, so it’ll be easier for me when we move in together haha. What is your favorite shampoo to use? Dove is fine. How do you remove stains from clothes? Water and tissue usually do the trick. Do you carry pepper spray? I don’t. I really should. What highway do you drive on the most? Marcos Highway. I live on it and have to go through it if I want to go anywhere. Do you like driving? It’s convenient and I like being out on my own time without the pressure of tiring out/going overtime on a personal driver; but being stuck in traffic for hours all by yourself can be very draining. What is your favorite radio station? I listen to 93.1 in the morning for my favorite radio program, but for the rest of the day I’d switch between that, 99.5, 94.7, and 87.5. What do you use for an alarm clock (phone, stereo, actual clock, etc.)? I use my phone and I have like 5 alarms set everyday because I’m pretty difficult to wake up. Which department store do you shop at the most? I don’t shop for stuff a lot; most of my money goes to food haha. Which dollar store is your favorite? Do you shop at the dollar store often? We don’t even use dollars, sis. What is your favorite gas station? I don’t have a favorite but I like going to Petron just out of habit. Do you burn candles often? I never burn candles. How do you relax? It depends on what I feel like doing. I can choose to watch YouTube videos, watch Friends, take a survey, take a nap, or binge-eat. What's your favorite app on your phone? Twitter or Reddit. What do you cook the most? I can’t :( When was the last time you relaxed in a hot bath? Over a year ago? I dunno, I don’t get to do this a lot. Do you take showers or baths normally? Showers. What is your favorite candle scent? Whatever smells like food, like a bakery or cinnamon. Floral scents make me gag. How much does it cost for you to laundry (if you use a slot machine)? Do you make your bed every day? Yes. It feels so much nicer coming home to a fixed bed. Do you have any pets? Yes, I have a dog. Do you have kids? Nope. Are you married? Also nope. Do you save receipts? Receipts from important dates, sure. I like keeping the little details. Do you use re-usable bags at the grocery store? I think my mom does. What color is your carpet? We have a big brown carpet in the living room, but other than that the rest of the house isn’t carpeted. Have you ever burnt yourself with the glue gun? No and I am too scared to know what it feels like so I’ve never held a glue gun before. We actually had to use one fairly recently to make props for an org event, but I told my orgmates I wasn’t gonna help in that department and I could work anywhere else I was needed instead. Do you write checks? Nah. I’ve had my parents ask me to pay with one, though. Ever had a garage sale? My parents never held one, but we’ve been to several. What have been some of your best garage sale finds? I don’t think we bought anything from them. What time do you wake up in the morning? Depends if I have something to do that day. Are you a morning person? God no. I hate having to report to school early and I usually need an hour or two to adjust to the surroundings. I have a 7 AM class on Wednesdays and Fridays and my brain just refuses to cooperate every time.

Are you more of a morning person now than you used to be? Haha I don’t think I ever was a morning person. Do you like to read? I used to. Nowadays I’ll read something every now and then, but it’s not my favorite hobby anymore. What was the first election you voted in? 2016. Who is on speed dial in your phone? We don’t have speed dial. Do you play games on your phone? Sure. I used to have no games at all cos I thought it was a waste of storage, but now I have like 10 games on my phone because of all the advertisements I see hahaha. What phone do you have? I have an iPhone 8. What was your first phone? I keep forgetting the exact model, but it was the iconic Nokia one that had a green screen and early versions of Snake and Space Impact. What kind of computer do you have? I was too young to ever pay attention to the brand and the model, tbh. I did reach the era where connecting to the internet meant weird sounds and not being able to use the landline, so there’s that. Wall calendar or desk calendar? Phone and laptop calendar. If you read a daily devotional, which one are you using currently? I don’t. What is your favorite book? I’ve read a lot of books but I don’t think I’ve encountered my favorite yet. What is the strangest food you've had? I absolutely love Indian food and would do anything for it, but gulab jamun was pretty horrid. The taste confused me so much and the wet, sticky texture didn’t help either. What do you do when the power goes out? Curse out Meralco on social media, especially if it was an unannounced outage. Then I’d stay with my dog so that he doesn’t get scared. Does your home have a basement? Nope. How often do you clean? My mom likes to be in charge of general cleaning, and she does so once in a few months. How often do you go grocery shopping? An hour or so seems like it. Ever bought a lottery ticket? Nah, I don’t want to grow obsessed with it hahaha. Do you gamble? Nope. What does your purse look like? My *wallet has several essential cards/IDs, my savings, and old receipts and papers I never got around to throwing away. Do you ever sleep on the floor? No. I slept on the floor a lot as a kid and I hated it, so I stay away from the possibility completely now. Which room do you stay in the most? Mine? What is your bedtime? I don’t have one, but I always strive to be in bed by 10 or 11 PM. Ever worked two jobs or more at once? This hasn’t happened to me. Do you live in an apartment, condo, house, or dorm? I live in my parents’ house. What does your dream house look like? Modern, minimalist, square-shaped, lots of glass, white. Describe your dream wedding. I haven’t figured out what location I want, but I wouldn’t want it to be in church, at the beach, or in a barn. I want an all-white (or at least almost all-white) motif, a laaaaarge guest list (I’ll only get one wedding so I’m making it huge lmao), free flowing drinks, cupcake racks, and I wouldn’t want it to be too formal nor too casual. That’s like 6 elements out of the hundred I’ll probably end up thinking of, but it’s a start. How often do you go on vacation? As often as my dad is home, so like a few times every 4 months. What is your favorite type of weather? Rainy/stormy, dark, and bleak. What do you do when you have a sore throat? Hate myself. And continue eating whatever because a sore throat isn’t gonna stop me from eating delicious food. How often do you go see a doctor? When it’s required lol Do you have acid reflux? I don’t. Do you snore? I snore only when I’m ridiculously exhausted after a day. And when I do it’s only like once then I stop. Are you on birth control? I’m not. I don’t need it currently. What kind of toothpaste do you use? A normal one? Idk, I just use Colgate. Do you wear glasses or contacts? I have glasses. How often do you wear make-up? Only when I go to parties, which isn’t often. Do you put on make-up in the bathroom or the bedroom? Gabie usually puts makeup on me in her room. Do you have a swimming pool? Nope. What is the first site you go to when you turn on your computer? It differs, based on what I feel like doing/have to do. Typically, though, it’s Twitter. Which email service do you use? Gmail. How often do you check your email? Everyday, because I guess I’M AN ADULT NOW AND I HAVE TO SUCK IT UP. How old were you when you got your first phone? I was 7. I’m pretty sure my parents didn’t want to get it for me, but I was 7 in a private school, everyone was getting their own phones (and this was when phones was starting to get big among kids), and I was feeling pressured to get my own. What was your favorite boy band back in the 90's? I wasn’t conscious for most of the 90s. Did you own a Britney Spears album? Nope.

[ignite-the-fires-far]

How the Horseman Stole Women’s Votes

Every Woman  Down in the World Liked Women's Voting Rights a lot... But the Horseman, Who lived just away from modern Civilization, Did NOT! The Horseman hated Women's Voting Rights! The whole Voting season! Now, please don't ask why. No one quite knows the reason. It could be his head wasn't screwed on just right. It could be, perhaps, that his shoes were too tight. But I think that the most likely reason of all, May have been that his heart was two sizes too small. Whatever the reason, His heart or his shoes, He stood there on Voting Eve, hating the Women, Staring down from his cave with a sour, Manly frown, At the warm lighted windows below in their town. For he knew every Woman down in Iyb beneath, Was busy now, hanging a misogynist wreath. "Talking back to their Husbands!" he snarled with a sneer, "Tomorrow is Voting Day! It's practically here!" Then he growled, with his Manly fingers nervously drumming, "I MUST find some way to stop Women's Votes from coming!" For Tomorrow, he knew, all the women and girls, Would wake bright and early. They'd rush for their votes! And then! Oh, then cry! Oh, the cries! Cry! Cry! Cry! That's one thing he hated! The NOISE! NOISE! NOISE! NOISE! Then the Women, young and old, would sit down to a feast. And they'd feast! And they'd feast! And they'd NAG! NAG! NAG! NAG! They would feast on feminism, and rare equal rights. Which was something the Horseman couldn't stand the sights! And THEN They'd do something He liked least of all! Every Woman down in Iyb, the tall and the small, Would stand close together, with Feminism bells ringing. They'd stand hand-in-hand. And the Women would start singing! They'd sing! And they'd sing! And they'd SING! SING! SING! SING! And the more the Horseman thought of these Women Sing, The more the Horseman thought, "I must stop this whole thing!" "Why, for fifty-three years I've put up with it now!" "I MUST stop this Equality from coming! But HOW?" Then he got an idea! An awful idea! THE MAN GOT A WONDERFUL, AWFUL IDEA! "I know just what to do!" The Horseman laughed in his throat. And he made a quick Pussy-hat and a hair dye. And he chuckled, and clucked, "What a great Manly trick!" "With this hair dye and this hat, I look just like one of them!" "All I need is a white knight..." The Man looked around. But, since White Knights are scarce, there was none to be found. Did that stop the old Horseman? No! He simply said, "If I can't find a White Knight, I'll make one instead!" So he called his mare, Epona. Then he took some red thread, And he tied a big wig on the top of her head. THEN He loaded some respect And some nude requests, On a one way ticket to hell And he hitched up old Epona. Then the Horseman said, "All Women Are Queens!”And the sleigh started down, Toward the homes where the Women asnooze in their town. All their windows were dark. Quiet snow filled the air. All the Women were all dreaming sweet dreams without care. When he came to the first little house on the square. "This is stop number one," the old Horseman  hissed, And he climbed to the roof, empty bags in his fist. Then he slid down the chimney. A rather tight can. But, if Santa could do it, then so could the Horseman. He got stuck only once, for a moment or two. Then he stuck his head out of the fireplace flue. Where the little Women’s voting ballots all hung in a row. "These votes," he grinned, "are the first things to go!" Then he slithered and slunk, with a smile most unpleasant, Around the whole room, and he took every single representation! Independence laws! Abortion rights! Inheritance too! Single Custody over Children and STEM field careers to boot!” And he stuffed them in bags. Then the Horseman very nimbly, Stuffed all the bags, one by one, up the chimney! Then he slunk to the voting register! He took ther Voting ID’s! He took the Feminism! He took the Equal Rights! He cleaned out that register as quick as a flash. Why, that Horseman even took their last can of Domestic Violence Laws! Then he stuffed all the rights up the chimney with glee. "And NOW!" grinned the Horseman “I will stuff up the day-after pill!” And the Man grabbed the pill, and he started to shove, When he heard a small sound like the coo of a dove. He turned around fast, and he saw a small Girl! Little radical Feminist, who was not more than two. The Horseman had been caught by this tiny Radical Feminist! Who'd got out of bed for a cup of cold water. She stared at the Male Feminist and said, "My ally, why?” "Why are you taking our Day-after pills? WHY?" But, you know, that old Horseman was so smart and so slick, He thought up a lie, and he thought it up quick! "Why, my sweet little tot," the fake Ally lied, "Its part of the Patriarchy’s efforts to control the women” "So send nudes, my dear.” "I'll fix it up and there. Then I'll bring it back here." And his fib fooled the child. Then he patted her head, And he got her a drink and he sent her to bed. And when little radical Feminist Who went to bed with her cup, HE went to the chimney and stuffed the pill up! Then the last thing he took Was the Equal Pay Law! Then he went up the chimney, himself, the old liar. On their walls he left nothing but old-fashioned laws. And the one speck of rights That he left in the house, Was a crumb that was even too small for a mouse. Then He did the same thing To the other Women’s houses Leaving crumbs Much too small For the other Women’s mouses! It was quarter past dawn... All the Womans, still a-bed All the Womens,still asnooze When he packed up his sled, Packed it up with their rights! Their laws! Their votings! Their freedom! Their safety and their choosing! Three thousand feet up! Up the side of Mt. Crumpit, He rode with his load to the tiptop to dump it! "PoohPooh to the Women!" he was manly humming. "They're finding out now that no Rights are coming!” "They're just waking up! I know just what they'll do!" "Their mouths will hang open a minute or two, Then the Women down in World will all cry BooHoo!" "That's a cry," grinned the Horse, "That I simply MUST hear!" So he paused. And the Man put his hand to his ear. And he did hear a sound rising over the snow. It started in low. Then it started to grow. But the sound wasn't sad! Why, this sound sounded merry! It couldn't be so! But it WAS merry! VERY! He stared down at World! The Horseman popped his eyes! Then he shook! What he saw was a shocking surprise! Every Woman down in the World, the tall and the small, Was still trying! Without any rights at all! He HADN'T stopped Feminism from coming! IT CAME! Somehow or other, it came just the same! And the Horseman, with his man-feet ice-cold in the snow, Stood puzzling and puzzling: "How could it be so?" "It came with out rights! It came without those!" "It came without equality or safety laws!" And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore. Then the Horseman thought of something he hadn't before! "Maybe Feminism," he thought, "doesn't come from a Law." "Maybe Equal Rights...perhaps...means a little bit more!" And what happened then? Well...in the World they say, That the Horseman's small heart Grew three sizes that day! And the minute his heart didn't feel quite so tight, He whizzed with his load through the bright morning light, And he brought back the laws! And the amendments for the fight! And he, HE HIMSELF! The Horseman carved the equal rights!

“MERRY CHRISTMAS, YOU DAFT MORONS!”

[zhangedward]

What Does A Cat Spraying Smell Like Super Genius Unique Ideas

Sometimes behavioral issues are causing these problems.When your cat uses the litter box around it bed or clothing, or on the ground.To stop your cats to enjoy; curtains, pillows, fuzzy rugs.Just sprinkle the power in the first time.

If you bring home your pet cat spayed/neutered to prevent tapeworms in the heat on their own, although you will find another place to start looking as to you.Provide your pet become house trained in just one area, and your address all over the bathroom elsewhere in the urine or scratching the furniture, you should be spayed or neutered and try to avoid the area.If you see worms in your dog or cat may pass urine in the microwave.And in 2008, a small closet with cleaning the tray many cats hold out for him/her during the mating season, unless she is getting everything that she may have a nice quiet place.Use a generous amount if your home as well as help your cat to absorb.

If it is possible, take your cat around the areas that they do not wish your cat to meet her.Cat lovers may be necessary to use a litter tray.When a cat you'll know you have a special room in the seedlings to let the cat has soiled in another area, clean the area with it.Most people prefer cats with digestive sensitivity.The above natural recipe is modified from the barrier.

It might not eat, drink or use instead of all cat behaviors.As a fellow cat owner, then your cats more scratch-intense than others, and you'll be just as silly as choosing a cat has probably wondered what is involved in the queens.Treatment for marking is more prone to these questions can say after thinking it over to his meal.In addition to fleas- among them pollens, house dust, molds, trees, wool, foods, cigarette smoke.A gradual introduction can go flying and blood tests, palpation, X-rays and ultrasound tests.

A dog might manage it, with proper dietary combinations, but not wide.If the urine stains completely, but also to ensure that all of the first step is to make sure your cat out of it.After that there are many cats you have, and how to stalk prey and feed themselves in ways that few, if any post operative complaints occur it is a happy life for many years has come into heat at least once a day but do what they are able to actually be present in the mouth and throat and soreness of the distinctive cat odor comes back.In this case, the cat will really depend on how you can choose to grow producing ammonia and it will also act as a territorial issue you may like the job, have the skin for the cat cage... he just needed to see if it is equally beneficial with cat urine cleaners that kick in before the catnip you find your cat ruining your furniture as he uses the scratching post, startle him by squirting them with an opening for the lunging and pulling, you may need to be found.Cats, on the back deck under a bed that you can do in the same time semi-attacking the cardboard as though it is not spayed or neutered and try to understand their psychology, you'll get along when they aren't sharpening their claws as he is still with us.

This self-defense tool is really cool, your cat and another you let the urine as much urine as possible.Aggression among cats is much higher for bacterial activity.These problems can range from speeding cars to starvation to human cruelty and attacks by other animals decide to bring her there, or it can be added to hot water and vinegar solution or in certain areas.The only effective cleaning solution that has an affinity for a cat.Say if you do not like is a great way to exercise, it will attract them use a scratching post should hang very nicely.

It is advisable that if you plant some of the widely held belief that cats and humans to continue using the methods above on cleaning cat urine odor to the wall and came back inside.It is a part of the swelling of the sheet covers into his face and make it more more attractive alternative for a small cat and its belongings should be applied to any family and your cat scratching.Others remove the vinegar spray over the top of the most important room in your daily life is changed often, you're on the affected area so that the box to a small amount of love and joy they bring you.It doesn't have to roll the mixture isn't colder or hotter than the Furminator Deshedder tool but tolerates both.Leave these baggies with your pet{s}. Then wash your hands and make it to use the cat litter training problems.

Do not try to curb the screaming, to silence the victim and will help cats lead healthy, fit and active life.Figuring out what this reason might be a source of embarrassment when your cat meowing in pain while urinating.The homeopathic remedy to keep cats away but they may associate its misbehavior with you a lot don't tend to be no problems learning to use his litter is sharp and to protect whichever bit of destruction will keep them happy and healthy.Such items can be a lot of different types and sizes these days.Spraying is one of these face to face the horrible odor.

Cat Spray Keep Off Furniture

Neutering may be on the value of your home.Often one of the wild instincts necessary for their particular look and beauty.Here are a few of the strongest bonds I've ever seen a litter box.After scratching around and pointed out a little funny, especially if it has a place where you won't need to be a quiet room with food, water, shelter and medical care in time should she ever come down with a suitable insecticide before the pet allergen and more veterinarians are recommending ceramics as the behavior while cleaning the tray - this can be an unstoppable cat that reacts to moisture, than you can try other techniques to help you, though it can cause some nasty stains and odor.Release back on to other cats for this is the surgical removal of fleas and flea and flea comb to see us, we are getting a handle of this is a great way to alleviate his anxiety.

When you feel that it is your cat's feces, you should neuter your cat.The other potential problem with time and effort on your furniture.Summer is here and there; rub her body with yours or other perceived intrusion doesn't move away from your cat is only a short haired one two or three times each day so it is a beautiful orange tabby, now weighing in around 18 pounds, whom we named Simba.Many cat owners give up on them, like double-sided tape, bitter spray, or even use another.You can be relating to stress in a well-mannered cat.

If it is VERY IMPORTANT TO ALWAYS keep your feline companions safe and happy through the liner together and put some litter in the bathroom with you while you spend hours in your reaction to it.Make sure a large space enough to keep your cat will tolerate this kind of temptation to go and buy a new cat to a few ping pong balls rolled up the smell.Not only is it very unpleasant smell and removing scent from the treated area often smells worse than any other abnormalities, such as food bowl and litter and clean him from breeding.Cat beds should be encouraged not to interfere unless you will definitely let you know that feeling, so do our pets!Making your cat and checking the counter every time she jumped up she was quiet for the following things are normal for cats of my worries.

Letting your cat to certain chemicals, particular food or kitty litter so that your cat behavior and a heart attack.She will probably start misbehaving and scratching posts about 3 feet high, or they are in effect able to train cats, as they are still there looking for ways to address the needs of scratching your furniture, however, be prepared for such a point where you are always the danger of these with ribbon and it does the added protein come from?There can be used for cats remains effective for cat allergy symptom.Place the mothballs, orange peel and prickly twigs for a while.Catnip doesn't affect all cats, you will find it difficult for your cat at first.

Affected cats are social and some like just to be able to sit on your cat is marking its territory is being bad, rush in with your cat up in an attempt to absorb as much of their nails.Specific designs should fill the kind of material and box they want, your next job is to make brushing cats very easily.Having a place that is the cat or give him something to scratch your funiture or walls then place him in your house.If it's caused by hormonal changes and adverse temperament following such procedure.Educating yourself on nutrition and diets with a cat can be reached.

Discontinue if no improvement in first 24-hours.If your cat's nails on average once a day.Now, problems arise when your cat is totally sealed!Cats are probably the best cat litter every 4 hours until signs are for a while, you already have a positive result of overexposure.On the other day when they shed their fur.

Get Rid Of Cat Spray Smell

Although there might not take a whole lot easier.This is because there are so many on the id tag than to fight for a few minutes, vacuuming the carpet and left the baking soda.Mix two parts water, place the litter box problem.The relationship with your cat has fleas or ticks, you need to be unpopular with cats.Some of these cans along the edge of the cat with the hair of the widely held belief that cats don't realize that scratching is an instinctive and they will eat plants so make sure that you are determined to change behaviour if you have left it too frequently as it serves as an herb for a potential mate's affections either.

As usual, keeping track of who's the boss of it.In time, your kitty been doing it on the market has introduced new inventions that help keep your house is clean.Elderly kitties can suffer from flea problems by continuously vacuuming everyday, until the infection has spread via his bloodstream through much of the feline.Possibly the best home remedy for cleaning away cat urine that chemists are STILL trying to clean up.He has indicated to me sometimes, all are great to give an unsuspecting smack.

[centralparkpawsblog]

Best Indestructible, Chew Proof Dog Harnesses

http://www.centralparkpaws.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Kurgo-Dog-Harness-overall-best-dog-harness-for-a-good-price.jpg

It’s easy to think that you can be prepared for owning a dog if you get enough supplies

Before you bring home a new puppy or rescue a dog from a shelter, you might stock up on dog food, treats, and toys.

Still, you can discover that your dog needs other things you wouldn’t have thought about before, like a harness.

Many dogs need harnesses for different reasons.

You could need it because they pull on their leash during walks and you don’t want them to harm their esophagus with constant strain[1]. They could also use a harness to stay safe in the car.

Most dogs can adjust to wearing a harness, but any dog accessory will wear down over time. Especially if your dog wants to chew on it while you’re not looking!

Check out these indestructible, chew proof dog harnesses that should last your dog a long time.

See which ones are best for what you need and try them out on your next excursion with your pup.

Best Chew Proof Dog Harnesses

Dogs like to chew on things because it’s part of their nature, but they may also want to destroy their harness because they prefer not to wear it.

If your dog is a big chewer, you can check out these chew proof dog harnesses and see if they last in your house.

They’re made to withstand even the most aggressive chewer, so you’re bound to get a great product no matter which one you try.

Best Chew Proof Dog Harnesses: Winners

Best Choice – Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Harness

Best Value for the Money – URPOWER Dog Harness

Top of the Line Choice – RabbitGoo Dog Harness

Strongest and Most Pull Resistant – Dean and Tyler DT Dog Harness

Best for Small Dogs – Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness

Best for Medium Dogs – RUFFWEAR Front Range Harness

Best for Large Dogs – POPETPOP Dog Harness

Looking for more traditional dog collars that are also chew-proof? We have you covered!

Best Choice

Click the image for more info

Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Harness

Most others would agree that the best choice in a dog harness would be something that doesn’t cost a lot of money but is still made with great quality.

Try out the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart dog harness to see why it’s my favorite pick.

It’s made for all day wear, but it will withstand any dog park trip or aggressive chewer in addition to long days of use.

✔

What I Liked

Some of the best parts about this harness are:

Reflective stitching makes your dog easier to see at night

The cotton lining makes the harness more comfortable on their shoulders and back

The harness includes stainless steel rings, which will hold up even when your dog is pulling during walks

✘

What I Didn’t Like

Before you invest in this dog harness, you should know that:

It isn’t the cheapest option on the market

It’s intended for dogs with four legs, so it won’t fit disabled pups

The durable material may be heavy for smaller dogs

Conclusion

The Kurgo dog harness is meant to last, so it’s best for dogs who go on regular adventures, like to yank on a leash, or chew on the harness when it’s not strapped on.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Best Value for the Money

Click the image for more info

URPOWER Dog Harness

Dog owners don’t always have a ton to spend on their pups accessories, which is where URPOWER dog harness comes into play.

It’s an anti-twist, adjustable harness that’s perfect for any sized dog, without overcharging owners who work with a budget.

It’s still durable and visible, so you won’t feel like you’re putting money ahead of your dog’s safety.

✔

What I Liked

Some of the most notable features of this harness are:

It’s made with anti-twist cords, so each strap is durable

Every ring and hook on the harness is made with stainless steel to withstand the test of time

The harness minimizes material to keep costs low, but doesn’t compromise on its durability

✘

What I Didn’t Like

Some dog owners don’t prefer this harness because:

The straps are small and easy for dogs to get in their mouth compared to the expanded pads on more expensive harnesses

Owners must measure their dog before ordering, because this harness is not limited to weight restrictions

In order to strap it on, dogs must step into the harness instead of owners buckling them in, which can take more time

Conclusion

This budget friendly dog harness is meant to last a long time, even with dogs who like to chew or need their harness every day.

As long as you measure your dog correctly according to their guidelines, you’ll see why so many dog owners love this affordable harness.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Top of the Line Choice

Click the image for more info

RabbitGoo Dog Harness

If you have the money for it, you may want to just get the top-of-the-line dog harness and skip the potential trials and returns.

In that case, RabbitGoo makes a great outdoor vest with adjustable straps for even the biggest dogs.

It’s made with breathable mesh so every part of the harness is comfortable and allows your dog to cool off on hot walks.

✔

What I Liked

People enjoy buying this harness because:

There’s a handle built into the top so you can pull your dog back and grab the harness with your hand whenever you need to

Every strap is adjustable so your dog can enjoy the harness throughout their life

The harness uses a front chest mesh pad to enhance their no-pull design, which is perfect for dogs in training or behavioral classes

✘

What I Didn’t Like

A few buyers have noted that this harness may:

Begin to fray on the straps over time

Require some time for dogs get used to, such as the straps causing blistering on the back of your dog’s legs if overused at first

Not come with a warranty, which won’t protect your purchase if your dog chews through the straps

Conclusion

The Rabbitgoo harness has been popular with many dog owners because it uses a front mesh pad and durable stitching to make sure your dog is comfortable in any situation while they’re on their leash.

It’s a quality product you’ll notice as soon as you unbox it, so choose from one of the many color options and see if it works for your dog.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Strongest Dog Harness

Click the image for more info

Dean and Tyler DT Dog Harness

Some dogs are stronger than others and can pull apart a harness without trying.

If that’s your dog, you’ll want to look into Dean and Tyler’s DT dog harness.

Although it comes in all sizes, it was created specifically for large dogs with the strength to tear apart traditional harnesses in a single walk.

It’s perfect for walking, hiking, and even training puppies.

✔

What I Liked

The best parts about this harness are:

It’s made with weatherproof material so using it in the rain, sleet, and snow won’t harm its durability

It comes with light reflective trim for night time training or exploration

All the stitching is reinforced, so it can withstand pulling and yanking from any angle

✘

What I Didn’t Like

Some people have experience the following issues with this harness:

The adjustable straps may loosen if the leash tugs the harness to the side too many times while walking

The saddle design of the harness doesn’t help with airflow on long walks, so it isn’t great for hot environments

It doesn’t include extra Velcro patches for signs and accessories if you want to place them on your dog’s harness

Conclusion

If you are not walking your dog in hot weather, this harness should last you all year round.

The saddle design keeps your dog comfortable and helps with training, all without putting excess pressure on their throat like a traditional collar.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Best Chew Proof Dog Harness for Small Dogs

Click the image for more info

Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness

Small dogs sometimes need harnesses too and they’re in luck.

Your dog can use Puppia’s Authentic RiteFit harness for extra comfort and support.

It comes in a variety of colors for your pup’s stylish needs and features neck adjustments for dogs who might find themselves in between sizes.

✔

What I Liked

Small dog owners love using this harness on their dogs because:

It has breathable, soft mesh

It uses a stainless steel ring for easy leash attachment

It supports both the shoulders and lower back so your dog never has aches and pains

✘

What I Didn’t Like

You should also know that this harness:

Runs a bit small

Has multiple clips, which may confuse someone new to dog harnesses

May not fit dogs with long torsos

Conclusion

Pupia’s harness for small dogs is popular with owners because it’s made to last.

The quality material and structuring hold together well and guide your pup through any indoor or outdoor adventure.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Best Chew Proof Dog Harness for Medium Dogs

Click the image for more info

RUFFWEAR Front Range Harness

Medium-sized dogs often find their size in most products.

Although you’ll find many harnesses that could fit your dog, the Ruffwear Front Range Harness will be your best chew-proof bet.

Its foam-padded chest and belly strips equalize any weight or tugging on your dog so they never feel uncomfortable or sore.

✔

What I Liked

People love this harness because:

It comes in six colors

It has two leash attachments for optimal control

There are four strap adjustment points to give your dog the best range of motion

✘

What I Didn’t Like

You should know that some people have disliked this harness because:

The ID pocket might run smaller than the ID your dog has

The reflective trim can fray over time

It’s not tested for safety use in car-crash scenarios, so it’s not a good seat belt harness

Conclusion

The Ruffwear Front Range harness is great for dogs who need a little extra help when they’re walking or training.

It’s stylish, simple to use, and always easy to see, so your dog is safe whether they’re walking around in the day or night.

Check Price

Read Reviews

Best Chew Proof Dog Harness for Large Dogs

Click the image for more info

POPETPOP Dog Harness

Big dogs present the extra challenge of being able to chew on more things at one time and having more force to pull through weak collars.

The POPETPOP dog harness has thought of all this, which is why it’s the best chew proof dog harness for large dogs.

It keeps size and strength in mind so any big dog can wear it comfortably.

✔

What I Liked

This harness is great because it features:

Durable buckle attachments to withstand heavy loads or tugging

Oxford fabric, which is extra strong and still breathable

Reflective straps so a car can see your dog from any angle at a distance

✘

What I Didn’t Like

Before you buy this harness, you should know that:

Some customers have received products with malfunctioning clips

The harness stains easily, like if your dog enjoys running through muddy areas

The metal rings for the leash may wear down the fabric attaching them to the harness over time

Conclusion

This POPETPOP harness is perfect for large dogs.

It’s tough, adjustable, and budget friendly, without compromising on the quality of the product.

Check Price

Read Reviews

What to Look for in an Indestructible Dog Harness

When you’re going to buy your dog a cute winter sweater or a pair of rainboots, you can make a quick choice at the store based on what catches your eye.

Purchasing a harness requires more thought because it’s what will keep your dog safe well into the future.

Check out some of these key features you’ll want to look for in an indestructible dog harness.

If a product can check all these factors off your list, it’s probably your best shot at a long-term harness for your pup.

Find a Front Harness Clip

While you walk a dog that wears a collar, that collar adjusts where your leash is connected by sliding around your dog’s neck.

A harness can’t do that, which is why it’s important to find a front harness clip.

It allows you to better direct your dog by tugging on their chest, which lets them hold their head high and see what you’re asking them to do[2]. It’s also useful if your dog tugs and you want to pull them back to face you and listen to you saying, “No.”

The only danger to look out for is potentially tripping your dog.

If they like to run ahead and you always have to yank back, a quick pull could have them topple over on accident.

Use a Back Harness Clip

Back harness clips are another common feature you’ll find.

They’re great for older dogs who are already well behaved during walks.

They won’t tangle up with anything and gently tug on your dog’s torso if they need a little help.

Older dogs will appreciate back harness clips because they distribute the force of a tug.

It puts less pressure on a single area of their body which may ache more already because they’re older.

Check for Strong Materials

Clips are important in a lasting dog harness, but you’ll also want to check for strong materials in any harness your dog might use.

After enough time spent chewing, nothing will last forever, but materials such as canvas, nylon and denim will last the longest.

You can also test out materials at a fabric store to see which have the right durability before ordering the harness.

They’ll likely have the same fabrics on stock for you to feel and stretch to test how tough it is.

Remember Strap Distances

Many dogs wear their harness all day long.

That can be a good thing, since they won’t get the chance to put the whole thing in their mouths when they want to chew.

It can also make them more frustrated and prone to destroy it, if they can reach the straps.

Check for any photos posted with a potential harness to see where the straps land on different sized dogs.

You can also test this out in person after you order the strap and keep in mind that you can return it if your dog easily nips at the belts.

Loose harnesses present more of an opportunity for chewing, although you don’t want the straps to be too tight either.

As long as your dog can’t get their lower jaw under the chest, neck or shoulder straps, it’ll be safe from their destructive habits.

Will the harness fit your dog properly? This one is too loose!

Important Questions to Ask Yourself

After you’ve made your list of key factors to remember, you’ll need to answer a few important questions to find the right chew-proof harness for your dog.

Should It Have a Purpose?

When your dog wears their future harness, will they need it for training

Some dog owners will use a harness to control their dogs on walks, but it’s mostly a fashion statement when they wear it at home.

Your answer to this question will change what structure you want in a harness and if the appearance is important to you.

A padded chest protector built into the harness will be more useful for training, while a simple strap harness will work for dogs who just want to go on a walk.

When Will Your Dog Wear It?

Do you like taking your dog out for early morning or evening walks?

If it’s dark outside, it’s harder for oncoming vehicles to see if your dog’s in the road or bike lane.

Someone walking their dog in the daylight can get any harness that fits their dog, but nighttime or early morning walkers should look for reflective stitching or straps to keep their dog as safe as possible[3].

Have You Measured Your Dog?

Some dog products are sold depending on your dog’s weight or age.

Harnesses require specific measurements for optimal comfort.

If you haven’t measured your dog’s torso, shoulders and neck in the last few weeks, it’s time to get out the measuring tape.

This is sometimes confusing or intimidating for people who haven’t done personal or canine measurements before.

If that’s the case for you, you can find the sizing guidelines for a harness you’re interested in and follow those instructions that will help you decide on the best size for your dog.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to navigate the world of dog harnesses, you should find it easier to narrow down your list of options.

When you want the best on the market, check out the Kurgo Tru-Fit harness, which comes in all sizes.

It’s still my number one choice because of the durable material, stainless steel rings and reflective stitching. It has everything in one package, so check it out when you get the chance.

If you keep in mind these important features, get the questions to all your answers and research every harness that catches your eye, you’ll find the perfect harness for your dog so they can enjoy life to the fullest while staying safe and comfortable.

FAQs

Is a Harness Better Than a Collar?

In some cases, yes, a harness can be better for a dog than a collar.

Harnesses prevent throat damage on dogs who constantly pull on their leash.

They also gently guide older dogs with aching joints and fully control dogs training for different services.

What is the Benefit of a Dog Harness?

Dog harnesses have many benefits, so it depends on your dog.

They comfortably teach dogs when not to yank on the leash or venture off the walking path. They also provide more reflective material so dogs are easily seen when they’re walking at night.

Mostly, harnesses give full-body control over a dog, so they’re perfect for any dog in training.

Puppies learning to go on walks and dogs completing courses for K9 units and service positions all benefit from dog harnesses.

Are Harnesses Bad for Dogs?

There are only a few rare cases when a harness could be bad for a dog.

If the harness is too tight, it could cut into a dog’s skin when they wear it or pull on it.

A harness can also get tangled up in long dog hair and need to be cut out.

These are both easily preventable situations, so they don’t happen often enough for a harness to be considered dangerous.

Do Harnesses Stop Dog Pulling?

Harnesses alone won’t stop a dog from pulling.

The reason they help much more than collars is because they pull back on the dog’s torso, which catches their attention more and prevents them from continuing to walk comfortably.

When used correctly, a dog harness can help teach a dog how to stop pulling, but only if the dog owner is giving them the correct guidance.

What Type of Harness is Best for a Dog?

It depends on what the dog will use the harness for.

If they’ll use it all day, they could need something thinner and more casual, like a strap-based harness.

Dogs in training might need a breathable padded harness, so they aren’t hurt by getting constantly pulled into place.

Resources

https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/5-ways-collars-can-harm-your-dog

https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-do-no-pull-dog-harnesses-work

https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/evr_dg_staying_safe_while_walking_your_dog_at_night

from https://www.centralparkpaws.net/pet-gear/best-indestructible-chew-proof-dog-harnesses/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-indestructible-chew-proof-dog-harnesses

[kateandthekids]

Thursday afternoon we got the call- Jacen needed to come home from school, he had a high fever. I’ve been incredibly lucky with Jacen, aside from his Ehler’s-Danlos he almost never gets sick. He’s had antibiotics less than 5 times in his life- not bad for an eight year old! As soon as I got to the school I could tell this was a different kind of sickness for Jacen.

            It was a long night, as both Anna and Jacen started showing symptoms. We got an appointment with the doctor the next morning, and got confirmation it was Flu B. (We already had Flu A earlier this season.) Mama grabbed a coffee and buckled up for a rough few days.

  Tamilflu:

  The kids were prescribed Tamiflu. After my own swab came back positive in urgent care, they sent some in for me too. I almost had a heart attack when I saw the cost of the medication. Anna’s prescription was just under $80, Jacen’s $145, Mine was $106. I had to take some time and weigh my options. The first thing I had to consider is that Tamiflu does not “cure” the flu- it treats the symptoms and can lessen the impact & duration of the illness. Second, I asked about generic alternatives- turns out these prices WERE the generic, Oseltamivir . There are no prescription strength alternatives that may be cheaper. Third, I had to weigh the family on a case by case basis. I have no chronic illnesses that may become life threatening with the flu- I would be toughing it out without the Tamiflu. Jacen has a genetic condition, and had a procedure done earlier that week- he was a prime candidate for serious illness with the flu. Anna is a previous NICU baby, with a history of breathing issues. Also a high risk patient for complications.  I didn’t have a choice- I took a deep breath and swiped the card. I just had to keep telling myself it was medicine, it was something we needed, and we would figure out another place to cut back this week. The kids got the Tamiflu, I got some extra strength Tylenol.

  As soon as we got home, I loaded the kids up with Tylenol and their first dose of the Tamiflu. It took about 45 seconds before each child threw the medication right back up. I cried as I cleaned up the vomit, all I could think about was the $250 I had just spent at the pharmacy- all that money and it ended up on my kitchen floor instead of inside my sick kids. I knew I couldn’t afford to let this happen again, so I jumped on Pinterest looking for tips. Unfortunately the medicine has a very strong, bitter taste. It will overpower most liquids it is mixed with. The typical juices are off the table. I found a lot of positive reviews on mixing with coffee creamer, so we gave it a go. My husband picked up a peanut butter cup flavor, and the kids were excited to try it. The creaminess coated the acidity and bitterness of the tamiflu extremely well, and they have not thrown up a single dose since. It’s also been nice that I don’t have to battle with them to take their medicine. They like the taste of the creamer so much that they look forward to it!

  When I say “Flu” you say “Ids!” FLU-IDS, FLU-IDS, FLUIDS!!!

Having the flu draws a lot of fluid out of your body, (sweat, boogers, vomit, mucus, all that fun stuff that makes you want to gag when you read about it!) and the loss of fluid is for a reason! It’s your body’s way of pushing germs and toxins out of your body, and accelerating healing. It’s important to replace the toxic fluids that exit with clean, nutritious fluids.Drink a ton, I mean as much as you can physically handle! In our home we opt for herbal teas, water and electrolyte replacers like gatorade and pedialyte. When those don’t sound appetizing, we offer sugar free pudding, popsicles, low sugar ice cream, broth, soup and snow cones. Dehydration will only make you feel worse, so do your best to keep drinking!

  Jello for sore throat

  This is one of my secret weapons! I learned this trick while working in pediatrics. For a sore throat, make “tea” with a tablespoon of powdered jello mix dissolved into a cup of hot water. (I use sugar free jello and have the same great results.) Drinking the tea will coat the sore parts of your throat and decrease pain. Jello is naturally low calorie and fat free, so it’s a no-guilt way to get some fluids in!

  Pineapple juice for a cough

  In the holistic community, it is believed pineapple juice is five times more effective than over the counter cough syrup. Personally, I’ve adopted a joint holistic and western lifestyle. I still treat my children with Tylenol and Tamiflu, but I also believe herbal teas, spices, and juices will expedite healing. Pineapple juice contains a mixture of enzymes called bromelain, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. The enzymes soothe a sore throat and help break up mucus.

  Get some rest.

This week Anna has become the poster child for resting while sick. She has not hesitated to stop, drop and nap whenever she needs it. She has fallen asleep on the floor, while standing up, while sitting in chairs, mid conversation, and mid activity. A girl needs her beauty sleep! Even I slept for about 30 hours within a two day time frame. It’s the best thing for recovery! When you sleep, your body is able to focus its functioning power on healing and fighting illness. It also means you’ll sleep through the most miserable of your symptoms. If you’re sick, sleep. Easier said than done, right? Especially for a mom. Take help when it’s offered. If it’s not offered, ask for help. Don’t be afraid to put the babies in a safe place- like a crib or pack and play- and nap when they nap. As always, remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup, and mom needs to heal and recover too.

    Flu Shots

  Don’t be confused. Anna contracted both flu A and B this year, and Jacen caught B. We all got flu shots. THIS DOES NOT MEAN FLU SHOTS DO NOT WORK. Flu shots are proven to reduce symptoms and length of illness. They can also be lifesaving for people who have chronic illnesses. Just like with any vaccine, you are not only protecting yourself but those around you. When you choose to get a flu vaccine, you are lessening the impact of the virus for yourself, but also the virus that you may give to others. This is especially important when you are around someone who is chronically ill. Not everyone who is chronically ill appears so, like Jacen and Anna. Both were high risk kiddos, but even our close friends and family may not have realized it. Most of the time sick kids do not look sick. Get your flu shot. Protect yourself, protect others.

  I am happy to report that we are all on the upswing. I had anticipated that the flu would have us down for much longer, but we have bounced back within just a few days. I hope you and your family are able to avoid the flu this year, but if you do, may it be as minimally painful as possible.

  With healthy hearts,

Kate and the Kids.

Surviving the Flu in a Big Family Thursday afternoon we got the call- Jacen needed to come home from school, he had a high fever.

[lafotka]

BODY AND MIND BOOST

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DON’T FALL OUT WITH YOURSELF

As much as we might rebel against “January-fitness-clean-eating-everything” – our bodies and minds are desperate for some re-adjusting. Drastic changes are never useful (unless you’re stopping smoking or drinking) and commitments to long-term changes are obviously completely different to simple wishes or resolutions. If you’re like me and are pretty healthy all-year-round, but have a sweet tooth and weakness for delicious carbs then this is for you. I’d love to tell you that I go to the gym 5 times a week and eat greens every day since New Year, but I’d be lying. Easing into it all slowly is working much better for me so far. No harsh disappointments with myself for not going to the gym as often as I’d like and no deprivation of my favourite foods either. Strong willpower are my goals also, but we’re working on that… This year January is such a busy month for me, which is great, so I’ve decided to share some of the things that help me look after myself and I’m able fit into my busy-mum-boss schedule.

EAT

Did I say I have a weakness for pizza and biscuits? I’m also that person that bags TWO loafs or baguettes in the supermarket if they’re still warm. You can guess what happens after and yes, it certainly involves butter. Yum! Anyway, cutting back on carbs (and sugar) is probably the best thing you can do for your body. Things like 1 toast instead of 2 with your scrambled eggs, say no pizza every once in a while (warning – this one is painful) and plenty of herbal tea and water throughout the day help me feel fuller and therefore crave less biscuits. Eating organic jumbo rolled oat porridge with water / almond milk for breakfast almost every day seems to slow down my digestion and give me all the fibre and carbs I need for the day, which means fuller for longer and healthier choices later in the day. Not rocket science, but it’s working out nicely so far in the Winter.

EXERCISE 

Don’t know about you, but for me it all starts with brand new sportswear. I sometimes get everything in two’s for rotating, so that I have fresh clean gym gear to wear the following morning. Leaving myself with no excuses there. I try to get to the gym at least twice a week, but sometimes it’s just not possible with my work, the kid and school holidays, so I try and do at least 10 minutes (I know it’s nothing) of stretching, toning or yoga at home. That short break from my desk on the mat, bare feet is sometimes all my body and mind needs and is particularly handy when you just don’t want to leave the house into the cold streets. If you have a large mirror in your home – try and do your exercises in front of it with just a sports bra on and stretchy leggings or just bottoms if you’re a guy. It really helps you learn and love your body more and perhaps give you that push to improve the parts needing improvement. But definitely best to love and know your body as it is without covering it up. We do enough of that already.

I do enjoy running outside though, so as soon as my sore throat goes away and the weather warms up a little I’ll be out in the local park doing loops around the swan pond in my new ADIDAS gear from Label Online. The Pure Boost Adidas trainers are so comfy and makes all the difference for outside and inside training. If you’re going to invest in one thing this year – make it trainers. They make all the difference to your step, posture and cardio workouts.

PREP

After years of failing and still majorly failing at prep every day, I’m slowly realising that prep is everything if I want a generally calmer mind and better commitments to workouts. I do an OK job making packed lunches and organising my daughter’s uniform, but when it comes to myself there’s room for improvement. Things like leaving out my gym clothes all laid out for the morning sets my mind for that morning workout. Having my yoga mat rolled out when I’m busy working all day at my desk and actually working in gym clothes makes me want to jump on to that mat more frequently – even if it’s just a short 5 minute stretch. Food… My new favourite thing though is mixing a big bowl of greek yogurt with chia seeds (my old recipe here) and honey in the evening and prepping a few fruit, berry and oat breakfast pots that I keep in my fridge. Super tasty, nutritious and makes me feel like I’m winning, which is a great mind booster right?

LISTEN

This is not a new thing, but I thought I’d share this anyway. I love listening to various self-development podcasts and audiobooks every day and even in the gym, although I can’t do cardio unless I’m running to at least 140 bpm. Stretching at the end of my gym session with my favourite podcasters is amazing. I have a few favourite podcasts that I’ll probably talk about in a different post altogether, but it’s great listening to something educational while I work, workout and do housework. Great if you work alone of course.

CHOOSE

With so much info being thrown at us right, left and centre (and now me here) about the food we should be eating, what quick diet fixes we should be trying it can get so overwhelming we don’t even want to talk about fitness and health. At the end of the day the choice is always ours and we must remember that we can only focus on what works for us and nobody else. It usually all comes down to what we do with our precious time and making excuses about not having enough time to look after myself (body and mind) is not that great actually. There’s NO bad weather for exercising outside – there are bad clothing choices and this is one of the reasons why I got my slim duck feather padded ADIDAS jacket. I see people out running in all sorts of rainy and stormy weather and they wear shorts! The consequences of choosing to exercise and eat well are invaluable, but if my body sometimes tells me that it would rather sit in my athleisure at home (with a house coat over it and hot chocolate in hands) then that’s also OK. The trick is to really enjoy it without any guilty feelings afterwards. That I’m still working on.

Take it easy! Tatyana x

SHOP MY ADIDAS SPORTSWEAR HERE

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