#dogs do that thing where they sneeze and then quickly lick the tip of their nose right after

[canisalbus]

i think the real question with machete and sneezing is do they do tiny baby ones or do they blow out the speakers so to speak

.

[ynscrazylife]

The Things I do for Love (Kate Bishop x Reader)

Request: “hi! could i make a kate x reader request where reader have to take care of lucky but lost the dog (maybe she leaves the door open?) and kate find out and freaks out but they find lucky very fluffy” by Anon

Summary: Y/N accidentally loses Lucky.

Request to be on a taglist (or multiple) here! (Taglists are at the end of the fic)

Main Masterlist | MCU Masterlist #1 | MCU Masterlist #2

PSA: Do NOT copy, steal, translate, plagiarize, republish, etc any of my works on Tumblr or any other platform. Also, do NOT claim any of my works as your own. All of these works are either requests I’ve gotten that people have wanted me to write or original ideas I’ve had for works. If you happen to take inspiration from anything I’ve written and want to write something inspired by that, please a) ask me first and b) IF I say yes, credit me as inspo in your post by tagging me and link whatever work of mine that inspired you. Thanks.

header c @/bevongf

“I have a favor to ask you.”

“Ooh! Wait, lemme get my book.”

“Your boo—huh?”

“I keep track of all the favors you ask of me so I can cash them in one day.”

The pause of silence tells Y/N that Kate is rolling her eyes.

“You don’t have a book.”

“Yes, I do, actually,” she says, and shuffling can be heard as Y/N opens her real book.

“Oh, my god.”

“Let’s see here,” Y/N pauses to flip to a new page, leaning over and grabbing a pen to scrawl out the date. “Okay! What’s the favor, dear?”

Kate scoffs, but smiles at the term of endearment regardless. “I need you to watch Lucky.”

A pause.

“You do know I’m allergic to dogs, right? Do you have a desire to kill me, your girlfriend?!”

“You’re so dramatic.”

“It’s life-threatening!”

“Take your medicine. You’ll be fine. Besides, I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t really need you. Clint got tipped off about these evil dudes and he needs me. He actually said that. He never says that!”

Y/N sighs. “Can’t Jack watch him?”

“Out of town.”

The sigh turns into the groan. “Fine. When do you need me?”

“Uh, in like 15 minutes?”

“Oh my god, Kate. Man, the things I do for love.”

“Achoo!”

“You faked that, right? C’mon, you faked that,” Kate said, crossing her arms as she raised an eyebrow at her girlfriend, who was standing in front of her now-open door.

Y/N’s sly grin gave it away. “I couldn’t help it,” she said cheekily, giving Kate a peck on the lips as she waltzed her way into the apartment.

Lucky immediately ran up to her, and while Y/N instinctively leaned back to protect her allergies, she pet him regardless.

“Well, you two kids have fun. I gotta run — oh, hey, that rhymes!” Kate said, jogging over to the couch to grab her bow and arrows. As she passed her girlfriend, she wrapped her arm around Y/N’s waist, pulling her into a quick hug.

“I won’t be long!” Kate called as she headed towards the door.

Laughing because she knew that couldn’t be true, Y/N continued to pet Lucky. “Alright, love you!” She called back.

“Love you too!” Was the last thing Y/N heard before the door shut and locked behind the archer.

“Okay, Lucks, it’s just you and me,” Y/N murmured to the dog, who was wagging his tail happily. Y/N knelt on the ground, avoiding Lucky’s licks while playing with his floppy ears.

“You know, I wonder why Kate can’t just leave you alone—” she said, cutting herself off as she watched Lucky suddenly bolt, skidding to a halt at an empty pizza box, where he began pawing at it and gnawing at it — barking, too. “—Oh.”

“Lucky!” She whined, quickly following the dog and gently pulling him back from the box. He immediately turned around and, with a lot of energy, pushed Y/N down so she was on her back. He practically had a smile on his face as he licked her all over her face excitedly.

“Oh, no. Oh, lord,” Y/N said, trying in vain to get away from his licks while simultaneously grunting from his paws pounding into her chest and torso.

Her loud, uncontrollable sneeze became the thing to scare him off. Y/N took a deep breath, feeling the weight being lifted off of herself. “Wonderful. It’s started,” she muttered.

Deciding to rest on the floor for a couple minutes, she drifted out of the “zone” she had fallen into when she heard Lucky whimper. Looking over, she watched him scamper over to the door and paw at it relentlessly.

Sneezing again, Y/N picked some dog fur that he had shed from her shirt. “Alright, just gimme a sec,” she said, pulling herself up and to her feet. She grabbed the allergy medicine from her bag and then got a glass of water from the kitchen. Placing the pills on her tongue, she swallowed it with the water and cleaned up before grabbing Lucky’s leash.

Once she had it hooked to his collar, she grabbed her purse and opened the door. Once they were out, he practically yanked her in the direction of the elevator, giving Y/N little time to actually make sure the door was locked. Hiding a sigh, she thought to herself about how lucky Kate was — she was punny, wasn’t she? — and how she couldn’t wait to use this as an excuse to keep Kate from going on her nightly patrols.

About ten minutes into their walk and it was going alright. Lucky had stopped to pee once, thankfully for Y/N hadn’t gone number two, but he did pause at every little thing to sniff at it. And when he saw a dog? Well, the smaller ones he was just happy to see, but he barked at a bigger one. The only real snag was when his leash and another dog’s leash got tangled, and Y/N and the other person choreographed a strange dance to untangle them. She apologized profoundly and continued on.

But then — the universe decided to be a bitch. At the precise moment that Lucky saw a squirrel slinking around a tree, Y/N had to sneeze. In hindsight, he was too excited, and she was too distracted. Barking, he broke off in a run, tugging at the leash, catching Y/N off guard as she paused to turn and cover her sneeze. She lost her grip on the leash and Lucky was granted his freedom, darting after the squirrel. The squirrel — who had been minding his own business with a couple acorns stuffed in his mouth — saw Lucky and ran.

With it all happening so fast, it took Y/N a moment to realize that the leash was no longer in her hand and the golden blob she saw was the dog she was supposed to be walking. Her eyes widening, she broke off into a run, calling Lucky’s name and praying for him to stop.

Alas, he didn’t. Y/N did her best to keep eyes on him while avoiding the strangers going about their own days, but it wasn’t easy. She knocked into multiple people and ignored the rude comments that were thrown her way.

It wasn’t until she full-on collied with someone that she was literally knocked off her path. Having just gone from seeing ahead of herself to now looking at the pavement, her head whirled as dizziness passed over her. The sound of the person hastily apologizing and going about their day was muffled in her ears. By the time the dizziness passed and Y/N got her bearings, she looked up to see Lucky nowhere.

Which promptly sent her down another spiral.

Not even realizing that her flesh peeled with scrapes and blood, Y/N stumbled to her feet and set off in the last direction she had seen him. She called his name at the top of her lungs, the repeating words coming out as strangled cries. People gave her odd looks as they passed, but she paid them no mind. Nothing else concerned her but finding this dog, as she recalled how distraught Kate would be if Lucky was lost. She couldn’t bare to see her girlfriend sad and knowing that it was her fault? Nausea hiked up her throat at the image.

She searched for a good thirty minutes until she figured she should head back to Kate’s apartment. After-all, what if he got bored of the squirrel and came back there? He may be a pizza dog but he was smart . . . Kind of. Upon her arrival, she brushed away the doorman’s concern and plopped herself in a seat in the lobby. She didn’t know how long she sat there, staring out the windows with a sliver of hope, until the doorman told her that her phone was ringing.

Scrambling to retrieve it, she almost considered hanging up when she saw Kate was calling. But, knowing that that wasn’t an option, she picked up the phone. “H-hello?” She said.

Kate, oblivious to the nervous stutter, greeted her with: “Hey! The mission ended up being a lot quicker than we expected. I’m heading back home now, I hope you guys had fun!”

That was it. Hearing the brunette’s cherry voice and knowing that her happiness was soon to be crushed, Y/N broke down in sobs. She struggled to breath through it, and that resulted in half-tears, half-wheezes.

“Y/N? Y/N, what’s wrong?” Kate said, her tone immediately changing. Picking up the worry only made Y/N cry harder, and on the other side of the phone Kate did her best to remain patient. She waited it out with Y/N until she was able to form coherent words and sentences.

“I’m — so — sorry! I — didn’t — mean to! I-I lost Lucky. I sneezed and he saw a squirrel and ran and I lost my grip and I ran after him but I couldn’t find him so I came back to see if he came back but he didn’t and—and—” she gasped.

The brief pause of silence felt like a knife stabbing her. In those 15 seconds, Y/N’s fears practically exploded. She curled in on herself, turning away from the doorman, seeking the tiniest bit of privacy. (Thankfully, he had enough tact to pretend that he was busy.)

“Oh-okay. It’s not your fault, Y/N. I’ll find him. Just stay there in case he comes back, like you said,” Kate’s voice finally came after what felt like an agonizing eternity. Her words were slow, still recovering from the shock of the news.

Y/N couldn’t explain why, but now she just felt worse. She wasn’t sure what she expected Kate to say, and figured that any reaction would have resulted in the guilt weighing on her like it did now. “Alright. Alright. I love you. I’m sorry.”

Kate returned the “I love you”, but it was clear that she wasn’t paying too much attention. Y/N let her hang up and still kept the phone pressed to her ear, even when she heard the dial tone.

When she heard Lucky’s barks 20 minutes later, Y/N nearly fell off her seat. Her head whipped up, a grin breaking out as she allowed the dog to run at her and jump on her, covering her face with slobbery licks. She sneezed a couple times from it, but didn’t mind at all.

“I’m so happy you found him,” she said, tears springing into her eyes. She looked up to see Kate, standing in front of her a little disheveled but otherwise fine, wearing a huge grin. Y/N opened her mouth to continue her seemingly endless apologies, but was interrupted.

“Before you say anything, it’s fine. Really. I know you didn’t mean to lose him,” Kate said, cupping Y/N’s chin and tilting her head up so she could give her girlfriend a much-needed kiss.

Pulling back, Kate — for the first time — took in Y/N’s appearance. Her eyes widened when she saw the cuts and dried blood and she knelt down in front of Y/N. “Babe, what happened?!”

Following Kate’s gaze, Y/N blinked in surprise when she saw her hands and torn knees. “Oh. I guess it must have happened when I fell. Someone bumped into me when I was running after Lucky — Or I bumped into them,” she said, doing her best to recall the event.

“You poor thing,” Kate murmured, peppermint kisses on all of the cuts. Y/N’s face heated up with blushes. “The two of you have had a long day, huh?” She paused to scratch Lucky behind his ear. “Let’s get you guys upstairs.”

Feeling calm now, Y/N stood up and walked alongside Kate and Lucky to the elevators. Within minutes, they were inside Kate’s apartment. Kate unhooked the leash from Lucky’s dollar and urged Y/N to go relax, which she latter had no problem doing. She sat down on the couch, watching her girlfriend retrieve a mini first aid kit from her bathroom’s cabinet.

“I don’t think this is necessary,” Y/N commented through a giggle as Kate sat down next to her and pulled out alcohol wipes and bandaids.

“Nonsense, it could get infected,” Kate argued cheekily, smirking as she rubbed Y/N’s cuts with the wipes and then slapped bandaids over them. “There we go. All better.”

Thanking Kate, Y/N let herself lean back against the pillows. “Once again, I’m sorry,” she apologized, her eyes drifting over to where Lucky was playing with a toy on the floor. As if he could understand them, he stopped and climbed onto the couch, making himself comfortable behind Y/N’s head. Y/N hesitated for a moment before she leaned her head against Lucky’s fur, allowing herself to relax.

“Once again, it’s fine,” Kate replied, a little mockingly but all in good fun. She pat Y/N’s knee as they shared a smile.

“How was the mission?” Y/N asked, sniffing a bit from the allergies.

“It was easy, but fun. It was nice to kick some guys’ butts again,” Kate answered, recalling her fights with a proud smile. Hearing Y/N sniffle, she pouted, scooting closer to her girlfriend. “Did you take your allergy medicine?”

“Earlier I did, yeah. It’s okay, Kate. My allergies will get used to him,” Y/N said nonchalantly.

Kate hummed in slight disagreement but decided not to press the matter. “Thank you for taking care of him today,” she said.

Y/N furrowed her eyebrows. “But I—”

“Thank you. What you said before — about the things you do for love — it was right. You’re amazing,” Kate interrupted, leaning forward to kiss Y/N (partly doing so before she could argue).

Smiling, Y/N kissed back, cupping Kate’s cheek in her hand and enjoying the peacefulness and the happiness that radiated endlessly between them.

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[butwhyduh]

Sex pollen

Tim Drake x reader

Warning: smut. It’s on sex pollen so there is a dub con warning despite the fact that they are willing participants.

Summary: all of the batboys are dusted with Poison Ivy’s sex toxin and think they’ve taken an antidote. It didn’t quite work. This is the story about what happens to Tim.

Beginning Jason Dick Bruce

Tim swung to his bike and drove to the Wayne Enterprise building downtown before realizing that, duh, he was still dressed as Red Robin. He quickly hid behind a building and changed out of most of his stuff. He still wore leather boots and tacticle pants with a hoodie with his shirt, belt, cowl, and cape safely stowed away in a bag he carried on his shoulder. He ran his fingers through his hair before making his way to WE.

The building was almost completely dark. Only maniacs worked at this hour. He was probably going to be home alone.

Tim realized that something was up in the elevator. He pulled at the collar of his hoodie. Was it always this hot? Maybe the antidote took a minute to work. He’d be fine soon.

Tim went up to his office. The paperwork stared at him. A big business meeting to cosponsor a program was in the morning and Tim planned to finish his preparations tonight. He was putting finishing touches on a PowerPoint slide when he noticed his seat was uncomfortable. Has the Red Robin pants always been this tight? He adjusted and went back to work.

Tim’s mind wandered as he worked. The way your skirt clung to your ass that morning. Your ass jiggled as you slammed the copier closed. It got stuck all the time and Tim needed to replaced it soon. You had made coffee for him and added sugar to your own. Tim hadn’t missed the way you looked licking sugar off of your fingers. Fuck, what was he doing? Daydreaming about sex at work? When would that pill kick in?

Tim couldn’t handle it any more and stood up to make coffee. He quietly walked into the kitchen when he saw you pouring a cup. Were you working overnights? You turned to see him and almost dropped your coffee as you jumped.

“Mr Wayne! I didn’t see you there. Do you- do you need anything?” You asked. You held a hand to your chest and panted. Tim couldn’t help but look you over quickly. When did your shirt get that tight?

“Just coffee,” Tim said looking away. You poured him a cup and handed it to him. He could feel his skin burn where you touched him. He walked quickly to his office and locked the door.

He sat at his desk, feeling himself uncomfortably hard in his pants. He palmed himself a few times. Tim made sure that he didn’t hear you in the hall before unzipping his pants. He pulled out his cock and slowly started stroking himself. At first he only thought about how great it felt before he started thinking about you. The curve of your ass. What if he had you bent over your desk, your panties pushed to the side as he fingered you. Tim wondered what sounds you made.

He wasn’t going to last long but that was probably for the best. You could come knocking at any time and he didn’t want to explain that. Tim sighed quietly as his hand moved faster. What would you taste like? He imagined ducking under your skirt as you sat in your chair. Would you moan or whimper? Tim couldn’t help but make a few grunts as his hand moved furiously. He reached over and grabbed a few tissues before quietly cumming on his hand.

“Mr Wayne, can I come in?” You asked turning the knob. The door opened and Tim quickly pushed his seat in under the desk. Okay, he’s fixing that lock ASAP. You must not have seen anything because you just looked mildly confused.

“How,” he husked before clearing his throat. “How can I help you?”

“I just need your signature. I’m glad you’re here tonight. Saves time,” you laughed and he smiled. Tim noticed that his dick hadn’t gone soft yet. “Your bag fell on the floor. Here, I’ll put it in the chair,” you said grabbing the bag with his Red Robin outfit and putting it in the chair by the door. Tim’s legs shook as he watched your ass. Fuck he was hard. You walked over to his desk and handed him the papers. Tim quickly signed them. You smiled at him before grabbing them and walking out.

As you shut the door behind you, you sneezed. Tim could see the outline of your body in the fogged glass as you delicately rubbed your nose before walking back to your desk. He could wait no longer and began furiously masturbating. He pulled his hoodie off quickly and threw it across the room. It was way too fucking hot for that thing. Maybe if he rubbed another one out, this fucking pollen would quit.

Your fingers had grabbed a bag covered in sex pollen and when you sneezed, you had rubbed it into your nose. The delicate mucous membranes can absorb substances quite quickly. You adjusted the collar of your shirt and wondered why it was so warm in the building as you sat at your desk. You looked through the paperwork before noticing a place that he had forgotten to initial. You unbuttoned the highest button on your shirt. It was a little too risqué for the day like this with the topside of your breasts now visible but honestly it was Mr Wayne’s fault for not fixing the AC. You stood and walked back to his office. You didn’t bother knocking but walked in.

You froze. The last thing you expected was to see your extremely hot boss shirtless with his dick in hand, jerking off. He stared up at you without stopping and it was incredibly hot. You’d fantasized about him like this plenty. He was good looking, athletic, smart, funny, and nice. In the privacy of your apartment, you’d thought about him while touching yourself. But nothing compared to this sight.

“Please,” he said roughly and you didn’t know what he meant. “Sex pollen,” he forced out. That makes sense, you thought. He literally can’t stop. And despite the fact that your panties were absolutely flooded at the sight and sound of him, you quickly walked back out the door and shut it behind you. You leaned on the glass, breathing heavy. Quit being a horn dog and leave him alone. That shit sounds awful. You didn’t want anything to do with sex pollen. Poor guy.

You forced yourself to sit at your desk. There was no way you could work now. All you could think of was his abs contracting as his fist moved along his shaft. Little beads of precum on the reddened tip and the way his face moved in pleasure. The little grunts and sighs he made, that you could still hear him making. Fuck.

Tim was really hopeful that this would wash the stuff out of his system because all he could think about was getting up and bending you over your desk and fucking you senseless. His hands gripping your hips as he pushed deeper in your wet pussy. Had you unbuttoned your shirt because he swore he saw more tits than usual. It was less than a minute before he finished again. He barely grabbed the tissues in time to catch it. Okay, please stop now.

You rubbed your thighs together. It was normal to be turned on by seeing erotic images. Especially people that you already wanted to sleep with. But the way your pussy fucking fluttered as you heard what had to be Tim cumming, yeah, you needed to calm down. Poor guy was being tortured. You rubbed your hand on your bare knee before sliding higher to rub your thighs. Fuck. You might have to find a spot for some quiet time of your own soon.

Tim, in a moment of clarity, send a one phrase message to his former butler. “Sex pollen.” It was all he could get out in his haze. He was physically hurting by how hard he was. This must be what the post 4 hour boners felt like in the viagra commercials. He could barely prevent himself from going to you for help.

You couldn’t help but stand up. Your body was on fire. You paced the office but soon the feeling between your legs was a painful throb. You heard a frustrated groan from Tim’s office. His orgasm must not have fixed it. Don’t think about him cumming, you told yourself. Don’t think about him at all. But despite yourself, you walked directly to his office door and opened it again.

Tim’s hand was wrapped around his cock but not moving. He looked up at you like a hungry predator. Your pussy fluttered and your chest heaved. You walked over to him and straddled his thighs. Tim breathed raggedly. You took his cock in your hand and started stroking.

“You don’t,” he panted. “You don’t have to.” He said before fucking whining. You started kissing his neck and collarbone. “Fuck,” he breathed.

His hands found their way to the front of your white button down. He ripped the buttons off in his haste to undress you. Tim’s hands cupped your breasts through the fabric of your delicate bra. He groaned before squeezing.

You started jerking just a bit faster and Tim’s fingers grew more frantic in their need to remove your clothing. He quickly pushed up your skirt to your waist. He threw his head back as you swiped the tip of his dick with your thumb. The side of your delicate lace panties was quickly ripped and pulled down your legs and thrown off to the side. Tim’s fingers cupped your sex.

“Fuck baby, you’re wet as hell,” he whispered and you moaned. You never expected him to talk like that. He started to finger you slowly with one finger. Your hips moved to his slow rhythm.

“More,” you breathed and he slid in a second finger. You threw your head back and moaned. And for a minute you both just touched each other.

“Tim, more,” you said again.

“Another finger,” he asked.

“No you. Fuck me. Please fuck me,” you begged. Tim pulled his fingers away. He quickly picked you up by the waist and brought you down on his dick. You moaned embarrassingly loud. “Yes,” you hissed before starting to ride him. Tim kissed your chest and collarbone before bending to take a nipple in his mouth. You whimpered. His tongue ran across the bud before sucking. You held his head with your hand. You weren’t going to last long and you had no thoughts of his own impending orgasm.

“Fuck fuck fuck,” you moaned as you clenched around him. Thank good for birth control as he came as well. His mouth open in a little gasp. You trembled as you came down from your high.

“Feel better baby?” Tim asked with a little too much energy. His hands made circles on your hips and he was still hard. His hips made little circles. He wasn’t done but hadn’t realized that you had been dosed. A true dose. Not a sharing with partner dose. A true dose was much stronger. The partner dose lasted as long as you kept tasting each other. You were just as fucked as he was.

“No. I need you,” you said before starting your hips again. It wasn’t enough for Tim. He lifted you off of him and bent you over his desk. He didn’t care about the papers flying as he slid in. You circled your hips and pushed back into him. Tim’s hips roughly snapped against yours as he found a rhythm. He could feel that you were insanely wet. His fingers reached down to circle your clit. You moaned his name like a chant. Neither of you lasted very long this time either. Tim felt almost a pleasure pain as his 4th orgasm rolled through his body.

He pulled out and prayed that it was enough for him. But as he looked down to see him cum dripping out of your hole, yeah he wasn’t done. He slid a finger in and your thighs closed tighter and you gasped. He sat down and watched lazily as he finger fucked his cum back into your hole. He added a second finger and you started moaning.

“Oh fuck,” you whined as he slowly rubbed against your g spot. Tim’s cock twitched and he knew he needed to be back inside you soon or he’d be in pain but he was going to enjoy this sight. You were absolutely dripping. He’d always had a thing for you from the first day you started working for him. Tim leaned forward to lick at your pussy. It didn’t take long for his hands to be gripping your thighs as his tongue fucked your hole. You had one knee on the table for better access and you were practically seeing stars when you finally came. Tim’s face was shiny and wet as he wiped his lips with his hand. He stood up and held your bent leg with his hand before sliding in again.

There was a knock on the window of all places. Which is weird as fuck being on the 50th floor of a building. A bag was attached to a robot. Tim whined before pulling out to open the window. He grabbed the bag off the robot and it zoomed away.

“What the fuck,” you asked. Tim was palming himself even as he read the note in the bag. You turned to sit on the table before shameless fingered yourself while watching him. He was full on jerking himself as he walked over to you.

“Take one,” he said downing a vial of grey liquid. You look at it in disgust and shook your head.

“Not a chance. Fuck me instead,” you whined. He groaned and grabbed the table. Okay, new approach.

“Open,” he said, and you eagerly opened your mouth and legs. He poured the liquid down your throat and you grimaced. You grabbed his neck and pulled him back in for a kiss. Tim thrusted in and began moving. You were already close and it wasn’t long before you both finished.

Tim grimaced as he pulled out. He felt like he ran a marathon. But thankfully he was finally done. He rested his forehead against yours and you both panted.

“Fuck,” you said. “That was-“

“Yeah,” he agreed before stepping back. Tim slid his pants up and turned away. He was bright red. “Sorry about that. I accidentally infected you with sex pollen.”

“It’s okay,” you said pulling your skirt down. You grabbed some tissues to try and clean between your legs just a little. Had you really done all of that with your boss of all people?

“No it’s not,” Tim said. His voice sounded pained. “There was no way you could have consented and I took advantage of-“

“No you didn’t. You weren’t in your right mind either,” you said and he turned to look at you. Your shirt was open because of broken buttons but everything else was covered. “And we didn’t do anything I didn’t want to anyways,” you said shyly. Tim stared at you and your heart clenched a little.

“All that? No regrets?” He said shocked.

“I mean, no. Not all that. That was a lot and too much. But you get what I mean,” you said.

“Do I?” He said barely over a whisper sitting in his chair. His thighs were on fire.

“You’re really making me go out on a limb, hu? I like you. I’ve liked you for a while. I wanted to fuck you before the pollen. Do you get what I’m saying,” you said to the genius who was also an idiot.

“Wow. I’ve like you too. I just didn’t want to be a creepy predatory boss. You know?” He said rubbing the back of his neck. You tried to stand up but your legs felt like jello so you sat down.

“So this was the less predatory option,” you said with a smile. He frowned.

“I didn’t mean-“

“I know. But I’m okay if you are,” you said putting a hand on his shoulder.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. Now is when you ask me on a proper date and we act like that never happened.”

“Agreed. But first I insist that we go home,” he said and you raised a brow at him. “Separate, separate homes. Because I don’t know about you but I need to go to bed.”

“Yeah, I’m pretty tired,” you agreed. “I wonder why,” you muttered wryly. He turned beet red.

“I’ll call you a car,” Tim said before doing just that. It was less than 10 minutes later that a car showed up. How much had that cost? You both went downstairs.

“Look, I’m so sorry-“

“Not tonight. We’ll talk in the morning but it’s okay. Don’t feel bad,” you said holding his shoulder. “Just go to bed and enjoy the,” you said before whispering, “post sex glow you have. It’s cute.”

He nodded stiffly. “The uhh, the car is here for you.”

You smiled and waved before leaving. You’d talk to him about it later.

[itsanerdlife]

Cruel Boy 6/33

Pairing: Howie Stark x Reader

Warning: Lies. Betrayal. Just a lot of violence. Mentions of Domestic abuse. Parental abuse. Murder Suicide. Death. Guilt. Hate. Deception. Lots and lots of anger.

A/N: This is a bit darker theme, but Howie isn’t dark. Anger problems and bad choices but he’s not a bad person.

Playlist!!

First love. First heart break. Life time of hate. When the silver spoon feeding you love is taken away, you learn to lick it off the knives. Howie Stark broke you. Him and his brother ruined your life. Destroyed your dreams and crushed your soul. Your best friend is dead and your life is a mess. When you take a bartending job, it just happens to be owned by the Bastard Son’s MC. Just your fucking luck. Jokes, you haven’t had luck since Gwen died and Howie ripped out your barely beating heart. There is no way in hell you’re giving him a second chance. Hell will freeze over before you let him touch you again. Not a chance are you ever letting the Stark’s near you again. Hell might have just frozen over.

Tag List Open

He wasn’t watching. He just happened to be looking around when he noticed. Or so he kept telling himself. Baby is on full alert, looking awfully pissed off. Her tail doesn’t move, her ears flattened. He could swear if the music wasn’t so loud he’d hear her growling.

“We’re good Frankie.” Y/N nods but continues to walk away. He’s up out of his seat, cutting her path off.

“What’s going on?” He looks down at her.

“Mind your own business. Remember?” She nudges past him.

Stopping instantly, he looks behind him to what she could be seeing. Standing just inside the bar, a guy they don’t know, glaring at Y/N. He’s taller, around their height. Decently built, dark black hair, tattooed and gave off a nasty possessive vibe from across the room.

Peter’s chair scraps against the floor as she stalks toward the guy. Her shoulders squared, spine steel straight, defiance vibrated off her. He looks at Peter, hoping he wasn’t the only one watching. Peter’s jaw is grinding together.

“I’d know that possessive look anywhere.” Peter bites out.

“What do you mean?” Howie looks back to the door where she’s backing him out. He’s mouth smashed together, clearly not liking being bossed around by her.

“I grew up watching you have that same look on your face when it came to her. But less, angry and hateful.” Peter looks over at him.

“So I’m not the only one that got that impression?” He grinds out.

“I don’t trust that.” Frank stands behind them. The three of them exchange a look. 

“Fuck that, I’m not waiting for orders.” Buck shoves past them. The three of them take off after him. The door swings out with a groan. 

“I said it’s over. What are you not getting?” She demands somewhere in the dark. Peter jerks his head to the side.

“You don’t get to just walk away.” He bites back, stepping closer. Baby barks, daring him to move again.

“Walk away. She will attack you.” Y/N warns the guy as they come into view. His eyes cut up finding them, watching.

“This isn’t fucking over. We’re going to talk.” He warns Y/N with a pointed finger. He turns stalking away, pissed off and angry. She turns around, finding them watching.

“What the fuck part of mind your own god damn business don’t you fuckers understand?” She snaps at them. The four of them exchange a look, surprised. Except Howie, he’s seething.

“What the fuck was that, Y/N?” He points at the guy now disappearing down the street. He steps towards her, Babies head tips. 

“Don’t fucking question me Howard.” She shoves him back. Baby whines in confusion.

“Come on Baby. Let’s get some fries. Momma needs to work out some shit.” Frank pats his leg, but Baby plants herself between the two of them.

“Go get a treat.” Y/N nods. But she doesn’t move, she looks up at him.

“We’re good. Go ahead.” He nods, trying to keep his voice even and calm. She sneezes at him.

“She’s calling your bullshit.” Y/N folds her arms over her chest. 

He looks from her to the dog between them. He drops down to one knee, petting Baby. She closes her eyes as he rubs her ears and pats her side.

“See, I’m a nice guy.” He coo’s at her. She licks him.

“Another woman putty for Howard Stark.” Y/N rolls her eyes.

“It’s a talent.” He kisses her noses.

“Come on Pretty Girl. I’ll referee for you.” Peter leans down scratching her ears. She licks him as well, but let’s Frank pick her up.

“Beef cake.” Y/N giggles. Babies head rest on Frank’s shoulder, as he and Bucky head into the bar again.

“Play nice kids.” Peter glances between them. “I’m not getting my ass chewed by her cause something happened.” He nods, stepping back.

“Is that him?” Howie nods, standing up, looking at her.

“Who?” She scoffs, playing stupid.

“The bruises you’re walking around with, Y/N!” He snaps at her. She swallows but doesn’t say anything. “The problems you said we didn’t need to be involved in.” He scoffs.

“Once more. Don’t fucking question me Howard.” She points a finger at him. “My life is my fucking life. Remember you walked the fuck away, so don’t stand there and act like you have any fucking right to know my business.”

“Stop calling me that.” He moves in closer, his jaw snapped closed. His words came out through his teeth. “Don’t stand here and act like we don’t know each other. That we don’t have history.” He retorts. “Don’t act like I haven’t, we haven’t,” he waves a finger between him and Peter “put someone down for a lot less than putting a fucking hand on you.”

Peter nods slowly. Like he was hesitant to get involved. But couldn’t disagree with the statement. She practically growls back. Baby girl was angry, and he was ready to match it.

“History. Key word. Howard.” She bites out each word. “This isn’t history and I don’t need your fucking help anymore. I learned to save my damn self after you ripped out what was left of my heart.” She might as well as have opened the ground from under his feet. 

“We don’t know each other. I’m not the same girl you left in the rain, with nothing but shattered pieces of who she was. I’m not Cali Girl and I’m not your Baby Girl, that girl was buried with Gwen.” The pit in his chest opened and sucked him in. His stomach lurched.

“Y/N.” Peter swallows, his hand comes up. She jerks back so quickly, you’d thought someone struck her. “There’s so much you don’t know.” He whispers, the pit in Peter was ripping open.

“I know enough Peter. I know, I’m alone. I’m fucking broken, my dreams went to ashes, my heart to fucking shreds, because of you fucking Starks.” She shakes her head. 

“You have no idea what I’ve been through since you walked away. Don’t stand there acting like you’ve been trying to find me, that you’ve been waiting for me.” She laughs softly. “I seen the red head, I’ve heard the stories.” She pops a brow at him.

“The red head.” Peter swallows. Y/N’s eyes cut to him. “She’s the girl I’m seeing.” He admits. She hand swings through, her palms slams against Howie’s cheek. She stalks back into the bar.

“Ow!” Howie curses, holding his cheek. “The fuck she hit me for?” He looks from his brother to the door.

“That’s not how I saw that going in my head.” Peter looks just as confused.

“Holy fuck, she’s got a swing that mom would envy.” Howie blinks, stretching his jaw.

“Knock some sense into you?” Peter wonders.

“I think I remember the fourth grade.” He shakes his head quickly.

“Damn, that’s a swing.” Peter nods. They pause, thinking about it. “Fuck MJ!” Peter pats him.

“Oh fuck.” Howie runs towards the door. 

Ripping the door open, chaos inside. Purple hair, red hair, and Baby barking. They crash to the floor Y/N’s fist slams down. MJ pinned underneath her, to the bar floor.

----------------

Everything Peaches 9/3/19 @mo320 @courtmr @avxgers @eliza-kat @irepeldirt @jordan-ia @jcc04220 @dumblani @nishanki1 @allyp1023 @joannie95 @rogvewitch @rileyloves5 @sarahp879 @sexyvixen7 @doctoranon @queentoffee @abschaffer2 @tony-stank3 @tomhardy41 @bookluver01 @drayshadow @teller258316

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Howie 'Damn Boy' Stark: @ml7010 @gabile18 @crayonwriting @callme-barnes @untoasted-ravioli @andycanbeemotional

CB:

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[lady-divine-writes]

Moral Arguments

Summary:

Crowley doesn't exactly take assignments anymore, but sometimes he does things for fun - like answering the call of a broken-hearted woman summoning a demon on St. Valentine's Day. But what Crowley thinks is going to be a simple hex-and-go turns into more emotionally charged than he bargained for.

Notes:

Inspired in part by this post.

(AO3)

“Creatures of the Underworld …”

“Yup. That’s me.”

“… on Earth and below …”

“Gotcha.”

“… I summon thee!”

Crowley throws up his hands in frustration. Ten more minutes of this, and he’s going to start pulling his hair out.

“Yeah, yeah, I’m summoned! I’m summoned! Let’s get a move on, will ya? I’m late for a date!”

“Demons of vengeance! Hear my plea! Do my bidding!”

“Let’s have at it then, girlie!”

“Lords of the Dark!”

“Oh, bollocks! Here we go again!”

“I, Samantha Westin of West Berkshire, call you to my aid!”

“Ugh!”

Crowley, hidden between a dresser and a closet, in a shadow created by several taper candles throwing light, slides down the bedroom wall and sits. He’d been summoned here, but not really. Only very specific spells can truly summon him. It’s not a simple matter of yelling out, “Oi! Demon! Get your bum over here! I need you to do something for me!”

If that were the case, he’d never get a moment’s peace.

But this was different – an amateur incantation but on a day of the year when demons get the greatest (and easiest) opportunity to make mischief – and Crowley appreciates easy; when people from all walks of life will call for a demon like they’re ordering take away and invite them into their homes with little to no thought of the consequences.

St. Valentine’s Day.

Crowley doesn’t do much in the way of official assignments for the big bosses anymore, but old habits die hard, and this one’s too tempting to resist. He’s running late for dinner with his angel, but this was going to be fun. He could risk being a few minutes late.

That’s what he’d originally thought.

He’s closing in on over half-an-hour.

Samantha leans over a book on the floor in front of her. She reads a bit, then jumps nervously. She grabs a container of salt by her knee and spills it out in a circle around her.

A protective ring –a boundary between her and any potential evil.

“Aw!” Crowley coos sarcastically to himself. “She fancies herself a white witch! How adorable!”

He has to give her some credit. Whatever book she bought, it’s from someone who knows an inkling of their stuff. Salt is effective against evil creatures, but only minor ones, like the insects of the demon world. Still, considering no one would want their house invaded by a horde of demonic termites or zombie ants, it’s nothing to sneeze at.

“Find a photograph of the offending and fix your eyes upon it.”

“Okay, okay.” Crowley sits up, wondering if he should miracle himself up a bag of crisps. “Finally! Things are gettin’ good.”

“Tear up the photograph,” she reads, “and proclaim his sins into the dark.” She takes a deep breath, then lets it out. “Okay. Here goes.”

She begins to tear the picture in half, then fourths, and Crowley rubs his hands excitedly together.

“So let’s see. What did this crank handle do, huh, Sammy? Stepped out with another bird, I’ll wager.”

Samantha carefully places the torn pieces of the photograph into a small wooden bowl, part of her arsenal of witchcraft paraphernalia, and sighs. “He left me for my twin sister.”

“Ding, ding, ding! Winner, winner, chicken dinner!” Crowley licks his finger and marks a single, sparking tally into the air. “Well, you should take that as a compliment, love, really. He left for someone who looks exactly like you.”

“He stole my car …”

“Oh, we’re not done.”

“… broke into my house …” She takes a long breath, shuddered by the onset of tears. “He killed my dog …”

The grin that had been spreading on Crowley’s face falls into an immediate frown. “For Satan’s sake! This prick should be working for us.”

The woman stops, bites her lower lip as the tears gathering around her heart begin to fall.

“He hit me. Not just once. Not just twice. And he … he …” Her voice fails her, but she mouths the words, and Crowley rises to his knees, subconsciously gearing up for a fight. This is a new instinct for him, being protective of anyone, specially a mortal. He’s known right and wrong from day one. He’s felt anger over the injustices he’s witnessed, even remorse over the ones he’s helped cause. But, for the most part, he’s been fine sitting on the sidelines, inconveniencing people when he could for the greater good.

It’s a grey area – thwarting a crime. In the end, someone gets hurt or killed. When you’re in the business of harvesting souls, the who doesn’t necessarily matter.

Crowley simply finds a way to harvest a bit more selectively than other demons.

“Holy fuck!” he groans, tossing his head back and staring up at the ceiling. “Why? Why me? This was supposed to be a simple little fun hex-and-go. What am I supposed to do now?”

The real question, he discovers with very little wracking of his brain, is what would Aziraphale do?

“Sprinkle rose water on the pieces of the photograph and set them on fire.”

A conflicted Crowley watches the young lady search for her flask of rose water. He’d seen it beside her a moment ago – a simple vessel of water with roses floating in it that she probably prepared herself. She suddenly seems to remember where she put it because she spins around quickly with an anxious look on her face, mumbling, “No, no, no! Crap!” before she finds it tipped over onto its side. “Dammit!” She examines the empty flask, wet rose petals plastered to the sides, the water that had been inside soaking into her rug. She shakes her head and sets the flask down. “Of course! Of course! Just my luck! Now what am I going to do?” She gets on her hands and knees and goes searching for something to replace the water with. She finds another bottle within reach of her salt circle and grabs it. She reads the label, then gives it a sniff. She consults her book, and shrugs.

“Smells like roses. This should do.”

Crowley squints from the darkness to catch a glimpse of the label. This bottle isn’t rose water. It’s perfume. Not expensive perfume. The kind one buys at a corner market along with their milk and eggs on the way home. Perfume of that caliber is usually teeming with alcohol.

Flammable alcohol.

He watches as she gives the bowl a few spritzes, a subtle floral aroma filling the air. Then she goes for broke, untwists the top, and empties the contents into the bowl. The scent of roses smacks him in the face like a freight train along with an undercurrent of sharp and chemical. She grabs a book of matches, tearing four from the inseam, and strikes them.

“Jesus Christmas! She’s going to light herself on fire!” Flashbacks fill his brain of a heat seared inside his memory like a wound that refuses, even with time and treatment, to heal. Crowley leaps to his feet and materializes from the shadows, rushing at her, waving his hands to get her attention. “Stop! Stop! For Satan’s sake, stop!”

Samantha’s head snaps up. She drops her matchbook and scuttles backward, stopping when her hands hit the salt. With a snap of his fingers, Crowley extinguishes the flame before it has a chance to ignite the bowl.

“What the ---? What the fuck?” Samantha screams. “Who the fuck are you?”

“I’m a demon!” Crowley pats his chest dramatically as if she might mistake something else for the demon and him for a coat rack. “You know, the one you’ve been summoning?”

“I---I don’t believe in demons!” she yells and for a moment, all of Crowley’s worries about this woman setting herself, her house, and her neighbors ablaze dies with the absurdity of that remark.

“I … huh … what!? If you don’t believe in demons, why the bloody heck are you trying to summon one then? That’s literally the stupidest … you don’t dabble in magicks, young lady! That’s even worse than knowing what you’re doing!”

“It ---it wasn’t supposed to be serious! It was a coping mechanism!”

“Don’t talk to me about coping mechanisms! My entire existence is about coping mechanisms! Don’t do that!” Crowley snaps, catching her with his magic before she can jump to her feet and dive onto her bed for her cell phone. The bed is halfway across the room. Making a break for it would have taken her out of her circle. “Don’t break the ring of salt! Even terrible spells need to be ended correctly!”

“What happens if they aren’t?” she asks, relaxing when he releases his hold over her.

“Trust me, you don’t want to know.”

“Yes, I want to know! I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t want to know!”

“Cheeky little …” he mutters, fishing his phone out of his pocket, realizing how much this young lady and his angel would get along. “Let’s just say if you don’t want to know what it feels like to have your brains liquefied inside your skull and then drunk by demon maggots, you’ll end this spell. Meanwhile, I’m gonna call in some reinforcements.”

“Reinforcements?” Samantha swallows hard. “L---like … more demons?”

“Luckily for you, no. I run with a different crowd.”

“How do I end the spell?”

“Jump to the bottom of the page,” he says, phone to his ear. “It’ll tell you---Aziraphale?”

This isn’t the way Crowley saw this going. Back in the old days, he’d hex the guy and be done with it – make him go bald with his head hair growing out his nose, give him a festering boil on his face that would never heal, make him severely and flatulently allergic to his favorite foods. Only thing was, unbeknownst to the young lady who summoned him, she would be damned, too. That wasn’t even a demonic rule. That one came from the good book itself. It was the kind of two-for-one demons delighted in.

One that came with a divine loophole.

But not anymore.

For some bizarre reason, he’s taking this personally.

“Crowley?” Aziraphale’s voice barks over the line. “What the heaven has happened to you? You’re nearly an hour late!”

“I know, angel, I know. I got caught up with work.”

“You’re working? Tonight!?”

“I’m sorry. I’ll explain when I get there.” Crowley glances down at Samantha, reading through the spell, sniffling as the words take her back to why she was doing what she was doing a moment before. “I’ll be bringing work home with me. I need a little help.”

***

“There, there, dear,” Aziraphale says, handing Samantha a cup of tea. “Let’s talk this out, hmm? Tell us everything, and then we can come up with a solution.”

It took Aziraphale close to an hour over the phone to convince Samantha to get into Crowley’s Bentley and accompany him to his bookshop. When he did, he made Crowley swear he’d obey the posted speed limits.

When they arrived in under fifteen minutes, Aziraphale knew he hadn’t.

Remarkable seeing as they stopped along the way to pick up a friend.

“The solution is we should call the police!” Anathema says, bringing over a plate of cookies.

“I … I tried.” Samantha takes the plate with a small but grateful smile. “Everything he’s done, even with the evidence I have against him, and it’s still a his word against mine sort of situation. It’s almost like the police don’t want to listen. Like they think it’s not worth their time.”

“Sounds about right,” Anathema reluctantly admits, dropping onto a nearby sofa and accepting a glass of whiskey from an angrily hissing Crowley as he paces the floor.

Aziraphale watches on with sympathetic eyes. He’d asked Crowley in private why? Why did this mean so much to him? With everything he’d done in the past, why did this one woman’s plight trigger such a strong response? Crowley had confessed that he didn’t know, but mumbled something about those abusing the vulnerable beginning to get under his skin.

“So, what do you suggest, angel?” Crowley asks, peeking up when he feels his husband’s eyes on him. “What does it say in the rule book about dealing with a situation like this when the supposed good guys sit around with their thumbs up their arses?”

“Normally, I would recommend gentle persuasion, and if that doesn’t work, then a little forceful persuasion,” Aziraphale says. “But as I don’t feel the man in question would be receptive to that, and the authorities aren’t in the mood to help, maybe we should skip the usual steps and jump to the end.”

“And what’s the end?” Samantha looks nervously from Aziraphale to Anathema, then to Crowley staring at the man in white with a disbelief that erases the color from his face. All three have gone quiet, but they’ve seem to come to the same conclusion, and it stuns at least two of them.

Samantha is obviously missing something big.

“Well, you did summon a demon, my dear,” Aziraphale says kindly, but with a grave nod to his husband. “I’d say it’s about time that demon got to work.”

“Are you serious?” Anathema yelps, but not in a way that indicates she disagrees. In fact, she looks fully on board with this plan – whatever it is.

“What about the whole damnation clause thing?” Crowley asks in a lower than low whisper.

“Find a loophole, my dear. That’s what you do.”

Crowley grins, impressed at the ability of his innocent Aziraphale to straddle the grey line as well as he. During a discussion about guns, his angel had once said that they lend weight to a moral argument when wielded by the right people. He wonders if this falls under the same category. “Right. And what about dinner?”

Aziraphale escorts his demon to the door, kissing him softly on the lips before showing him out. “It’ll keep.”

[centralparkpawsblog]

How to Use Coconut Oil for Sore, Cracked, and Dry Dog Paws

https://www.centralparkpaws.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Is-coconut-oil-safe-for-dogs-applying-topically-ingestion-medium-chain-triglycerides.jpg

Dog owners are no strangers to beauty trends.

I see other dog parents post on social media about different sprays and brushes they use, not to mention types of shampoo.

There’s always some new product to try, but I rarely hear about things both Maggie and I can use at the same time.

That’s why it caught my eye when I saw people post about using coconut oil on their dogs.

I’d only ever heard of it as an ingredient in recipes or human skincare products.

Since then, I’ve done my research and discovered some surprising facts about dogs and coconut oil.

Here’s everything I’ve learned and why it might be right for your own dog.

Is Coconut Oil Safe for Dogs?

In general, yes, coconut oil is safe for dogs!

They do well when it’s applied topically or mixed in with their food.

There’s only a few situations where you should be careful.

Things to Be Aware Of

Like with anything in life, you have to be aware of a couple things regarding coconut oil and your dog.

Some dogs have an allergic reaction to it, which may result in symptoms like[1]:

Itchiness

Diarrhea

Vomiting

Sneezing

Swelling of the face and ears

You should also know that too much coconut oil will likely cause diarrhea, since it contains medium-chain triglycerides that powerfully cleanse the gut if your dog isn’t used to it[2].

This side effect will only happen if your dog ingests the oil, so keep it out of their reach to be safe.

What Kind of Coconut Oil Should You Use?

Dogs need unprocessed foods, which is why you should choose unrefined or virgin coconut oil for them.

Refining coconut oil eliminates some of the nutrients, which won’t help your dog.

Before you buy anything, make sure the coconut oil isn’t flavored or sweetened either.

Organic unrefined containers are the best option to help your dog.

Coconut Oil Benefits for Dog Paws

While coconut oil has been known to help skin and metabolism issues (and even teeth!), it’s mostly recommended for dogs who have cracked, dry paws.

Here are some of the reasons why so many dogs get coconut oil paw massages and why it might help your dog too.

Soothes Sore Paws

All-natural coconut oil is full of vitamins and minerals. That’s what makes it so great for skin and paws.

Sometimes, dogs can have sore paws because they’ve spent time walking across hot pavement or rough terrain.

Rub coconut oil over sore paws for instant relief from burns and irritation.

Hydrates Dry Paws

Another part of what makes coconut oil a canine and human miracle salve is its fatty acids.

The fatty acids, combined with a coconut’s lauric acid, moisturizes skin and reaches deep into paw pads.

Extremely dry paw pads will form cracks. They may run deep or appear as surface abrasions.

Coconut oil will help in both cases, reducing pain and healing the skin with its powerful moisturizing powers.

Shortens Healing Time

Fatty acids bring instant hydration to skin cells and also soothe any cellular damage or irritation[3].

Although it doesn’t directly speed up the healing process, easing cells back to normal helps them catch up when they’re healing cuts or dry skin.

Prevents Infections

Sometimes open wounds or skin abrasions become red with infection.

You can turn to coconut oil in those cases too.

It’s been used as an antibacterial and antifungal remedy for centuries[4], helping defend people against infections, psoriasis, and more.

Using Coconut Oil on Dog Paws

Now that you know how coconut oil will help your dog’s paws, check out how to apply it.

It won’t be as effective if applied incorrectly or if your dog can lick it all away before it starts to work, so follow these tips for the best chance of success.

Step 1: Scoop the Oil Out

It may sound strange to hear that you should scoop the oil out, but coconut oil quickly turns solid in any temperature under 76 degrees[5].

You’ll need to use a spoon to scoop out about a half teaspoon of coconut oil and rub it between your palms to thin it out.

Step 2: Melt the Oil

You might find it easier to melt the oil in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Both are safe options and won’t reduce any of the nutrients in the oil.

Just make sure the oil isn’t too hot to touch before applying it on your dog.

Step 3: Do One Paw at a Time

Take one paw in your hand and rub a little bit of coconut oil onto the pads, roughly a quarter of a teaspoon.

Massage it into each pad carefully, being mindful of any open wounds or soreness.

Continue until you’ve covered each paw, leaving no clumps of coconut oil in your dog’s hair or between their paw pads.

Step 4: Cover Their Feet

Depending on your dog, you may be able to cover their feet in tiny booties to avoid them licking the oil off.

This will also protect your carpets and hardwood, which will become slippery with the oil.

If your dog tries to bite the booties off, you can make them wear a cone or neck pillow until their paws have dried.

You should leave the oil on their paws for at least five minutes, but it can be left on longer because it’s an organic oil.

Conclusion

Coconut oil is a great remedy for dogs with paw issues.

It’s all-natural and easy to get at the store.

The only things you should keep in mind when you use it on your dog for the first time is to watch for allergy symptoms and prevent them from licking it all off their paws.

Although it’s edible, too much may disrupt their digestive system.

References

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies-symptoms-treatment/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15724344

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0101/p25.html#afp20120101p25-b38

https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2014-05/treatment-dermal-infections-topical-coconut-oil

http://coconutresearchcenter.org/hwnl_3-1.htm

The post How to Use Coconut Oil for Sore, Cracked, and Dry Dog Paws appeared first on Central Park Paws.

from https://www.centralparkpaws.net/pet-health/coconut-oil-heal-dog-paws/

[funkzpiel]

To Be Human | Chapter 2

[Read It On AO3] Detroit: Become Human | Hank & Conor centric / gen [Summary: Hank has to take care of Connor when the android becomes face to face with something he never anticipated - getting sick.]

It turned out to be more of a struggle than Hank ever thought it would be to manage a sick Connor. On a normal day the kid was relatively easy to work with; minus the growing sass and the constant reminders that Connor was built with law enforcement in mind and the utter abandonment of some procedures now that Connor could choose to follow orders.

And the licking thing.

That said, he was a good kid; eager to please, eager to problem solve and eager to listen. He was highly efficient and goal-oriented, breeding for a perfect partner all things considered - if a bit too inquisitive and chatty for Hank’s liking sometimes (or so he told himself, burying the reminder of his son’s childish wonder deep down).

But sick Connor was another beast entirely. He was easily confused and easily overwhelmed, both mentally and physically. Processes and systems that used to work in efficient nanoseconds were stalling or failing totally, leaving the kid with stumbling, unbalanced steps and miscalculated movements. His speech kept slurring and his vision would sometimes double and he’d completely miss some of Hank’s sentences - just staring out at nothing, lost on a thought Hank couldn’t fathom.

“Hey, you even listening to me, Connor?”

Connor jumped, honest to god jumped, and quickly turned to face Hank with a scandalized look on his face.

“I was listening!” He yelped, only to flush a little bluer at Hank’s quirked brow.

Hank had the good grace not to call the kid out again after that, even as adorable as Connor’s horrified pout had been, hair askew and his nose and the tips of his ears the lightest shade of embarrassed blue.

But after some pestering and a terrifying moment in the hall where Connor had insisted he was fine and then almost passed out halfway to the living room - Jesus, Hank didn’t even know Androids could do that - Hank had managed to get Connor squared away on the couch where he could keep a better eye on him while he went about setting the kid’s apartment straight again.

With some convincing they had finally compromised on allowing the android a light blanket and an oversized hoodie Hank didn’t even realize he had loaned the kid once. But seeing him in it now, practically a dress on him because Connor was so lithe, he could remember it pretty clearly. The kid had spent a good deal of time in the rain helping a less than sober Hank out by walking Sumo, and even though sober Hank knew that androids couldn’t get sick from the rain, drunk Hank had been so worried about the kid when he returned sopping wet that he had all but forced him into it.

Connor had smiled so brightly, he remembered.

“Your concern is appreciated but I can’t get cold, Lieutenant,” he had chuckled lightly as he examined the way Hank’s hoodie ran a good several inches over either of his hands.

“Y’well fuckin’ wear it anyw’y f’christ’s sake. Makes’me feel less gui-guilty,” he had slurred before Connor helped him back to the couch. Hank had fallen asleep to the sound of the game on the TV and the soft, repetitive rasp of a brush through Sumo’s coat after Connor had towelled the big oaf off.

Hank later woke covered in a blanket and to a clean house, a coffee table with a bottle of water and a bottle of aspirin, and a groomed dog - he hadn’t even remembered the hoodie or realized it was gone.

It was old and it was battered - even stained in places. Just a soft, plain hoodie with the logo of the police academy he had gone to ages ago scrawled across its front. A hoodie Connor might’ve gotten himself if he had been brought into this world a flesh and blood man rather than a machine. Seeing him on the couch now smothered in it Hank could almost envision what that life might’ve been like. Connor, top of his class.

He went about cleaning up the shattered glass on the kid’s kitchen floor to distract himself from the allergies that suddenly had his throat so tight out of nowhere. Fucking allergies.

“This makes no sense,” Connor said from the couch, drawing his attention. The kid looked annoyed from his cocoon, his lap covered in tissues and his nose so stuffed now with this artificial cold that his words sounded cotton-y and congested.

Hank looked over as he finished pulling the broom from the closet, brows raised as he tracked Connor’s expression back to the TV.

“Hmm?”

Connor drew a hand out from his blanket and sweater cocoon to gesture at the TV. On the screen a spokeswoman for the police commission was making a statement about the virus.

“At this time it remains vital that all androids avoid opening any e-mails or documents from unknown senders or from making direct neural contact with any infected individuals. Information at the moment is minimal but as of right now any infected units can anticipate cold and flu like symptoms like any human adult might suffer them. Please keep in mind that these symptoms are merely programming forcing certain processes within the body to emulate illness, that these symptoms will pass in four to seven days and that if you are infected you are not in danger. Please just stay indoors so as not to spread it while we determine how far and quickly this outbreak can move. Keep an eye on the news for when a firewall will be released to prevent further infections and for anyone who is infected, please consume additional fluids per your manufacturer as often as possible to avoid any complications from the mimicry of nasal, eye and sweat gland drainage. Please stay calm, stay aware and stay safe.”

Hank turned to look at Connor just as the spokeswoman began to go into status of the fugitives responsible. On the couch Connor looked more than a little peeved.

“This is inefficient. Why would anyone do this?”

“I think that’s the point, kid.”

“Well, it’s a stupid point.”

Hank chuckled as he began to sweep the broken glass into a tidy pile.

“H-Hank,” Connor said, drawing his attention again. The kid looked concerned and Hank couldn’t help but soften when the android’s sentence was suddenly interrupted with another loud sneeze he thankfully managed to cover with a tissue this time. “You don’t have to do that.”

“Yeah, well, I’m doing it,” Hank shot back as he swept the shards into a dustpan.

“You might cut yourself.”

“And you might sneeze your wiry brains out. Shit happens.”

“That’s possible?!”

Hank looked up, a sassy retort on his tongue, only to blink at the absolute terror on Connor’s face. He let out a huge, huffing chuckle of a breath and shook his head.

“Only if you don’t cover your mouth,” he joked, but the sarcasm was apparently lost on Connor who immediately brought his tissues to his nose and held them there determinedly. “I’m joking, kid. You can’t blow your brains out sneezing.”

Connor narrowed his eyes at him from over his tissues and appeared to be about to say something before the disc at his temple suddenly flickered and Connor’s face went slack. Hank’s stomach lurched as the moment hung, Connor’s delay lasting far longer than it had any reasonable right to. He rose to his feet and quickly dumped the glass into the trash before rushing over to the kid, one hand on his feverish brow as he asked, “Kid, can you hear me? Are you okay? Connor!”

Connor blinked twice, then as though he had never been still his face regained that glow of intelligence that was purely Connor as he jerked away, surprised by Hank’s sudden nearness and seemingly alarmed by something.

Without another word the lithe android began to scramble on the couch as though to get up. The lieutenant quickly put a hand on either of his shoulders and held him down in his seat with disturbing ease as Connor continued to struggle.

“Hank, quit it!” He said, “I’ll be late!”

Hank blinked.

“Late? For what?”

“For work! Let me go!”

“Connor, it’s nearly noon. We’re well past late at this point,” Hank snorted, and all at once Connor fell slack beneath his hands and sank into the couch, eyes wide and cheeks pale.

“No,” he mumbled. “No, that can’t be. My operating system is telling me that it’s only 8:32AM.”

Hank rose up to his full height and scrubbed a few fingers through his beard as he realized he would have to tell Connor - the android that had always put the mission and his work first - that he had missed his first day of work conceivably ever. With a little sigh he just turned around and gestured mildly to the TV.

He watched as Connor looked from him to the screen, obviously not comprehending the action, until finally his eyes fell upon the station’s feed at the bottom of the screen. There, right next to the logo, displayed the date and time in clear serif letters - 12:39PM.

Connor’s mouth fell open and he shook his head in short, slow little motions as his disc lit up with dismay, trying to process what he was seeing.

“But my alarm…”

“It’s the virus, kid. It’s got your OS all out of whack. It happens. But don’t sweat it. The captain already knew you were sick, he didn’t expect you in once he realized what that fucker had sent you. You’re fine, Connor. It’s fine.”

“It’s not fine,” Connor rasped and sat up straighter, shaking lightly. “This isn’t fine! I missed work, I can’t stand, I can’t regulate my body temperature or stop whatever leak is making all this fluid come out of my nose! I can’t even focus! This isn’t fine!”

At the end of his outburst Connor melted back into the couch, seemingly exhausted from his tirade, and murmured, “And I’m… I don’t even know how to describe it, Hank. I… I don’t want to move.”

Hank crossed his arms with a fond look and said, “You’re tired. It’s called being tired. Join the club, kid.”

“There’s a club for being sick?”

“Jesus, I was being facetious.”

Connor frowned.

“Why do you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Be facetious. It isn’t efficient.”

Hank blinked and let out a surprised little bark of a laugh.

“Efficiency has nothing to do with it.”

“Well it should. It’s not efficient dialogue. This,” he said, gesturing to his nose, “isn’t efficient. It makes no sense! I - I -” Connor’s words tapered off into a surprised little look.

“You what?” Hank prompted.

“I… I don’t like it,” Connor said, soft and awed.

Hank smiled.

“Welcome to being human, kid. Sick sucks.”

“Yeah,” Connor muttered as he closed his eyes and leaned back into the warmth of his cocoon, “It does. I don’t know how you humans do it.”

Hank snorted as he picked up Connor’s fallen book from the ground and gently set it on the coffee table before moving to sit down next to the kid - mostly certain he couldn’t catch a virus from an android.

“We don’t really have much of a choice. No one’s cracked that one yet.”

“Inefficient,” Connor mumbled sleepily, eyes still closed. Hank peeked his way before changing the channel to sports, certain the kid was on his way to a nice nap and wouldn’t mind. Just as he found a game he’d enjoy he blinked at the feeling of a weight slowly settling upon his shoulder - Connor, face smooshed against Hank’s arm and quickly spiraling down into whatever equivalent androids called ‘sleep’.

Hank smiled, safe to do so while the kid was asleep, and chuckled, “Sleep tight, kid,” before turning back to his game. He’d make sure the android drank plenty of additional fluids or whatever the woman called it once he woke up. For now, he’d let him sleep - inefficient or not.

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[1989dreamer]

Raw? No.

This is for @imyoursourwolf

Happy Birthday! I hope you like it.

Takes place in a what-if after Season 4 canon ends.

Title is taken from Stiles and Scott’s discussion of eating rabbits in Season 1

Everything is bright.

Derek stumbles as he trots out into the light. He’s been sleeping for too long, he thinks. He shakes his head, sniffs the air, and sneezes.

Standing upwind from his den, and probably the reason Derek is no longer snuggled deep in his burrow, Stiles whistles again.

“Here, boy,” he calls, winking at Derek.

Derek growls at him and turns around to head back into his den. Stiles can go away. He won’t get Derek to come home just yet.

It’s more comfortable living as a wolf now. He feels more in touch with his family’s land. It has nothing to do with the fact that things have gone sideways since the battle in Mexico with Kate and her berserkers. Scott is posturing , trying to reaffirm his status as an alpha after very nearly being an undead pawn for eternity. That means shunning all reminders of bad things in his life, one of which is Derek. At least, that’s the excuse Scott gave Derek when he came to turn him out of his loft and run him out of town.

Derek isn’t hiding out here in the preserve, but he certainly isn’t going to make it easier for anyone to find him. In fact, he isn’t sure how Stiles, human Stiles, found him.

“Oh, come on,” Stiles grumbles, crawling up the steep hill on hands and feet, clutching at roots and sending bits of grass and leaves tumbling down. Derek sighs, letting his head droop.

He should have known that Stiles wouldn’t let him go.

Stiles is the only one still looking after him.

Derek sighs again and turns around, padding down to where Stiles is trying to climb the hill. He nudges him with his snout, poking and huffing and sneaking a lick or three in while Stiles fights his way upright.

“Fine!” Stiles shouts suddenly. “I give up!” He sits on his butt and starts sliding down the hill. Derek watches him, head cocked. It looks like fun, honestly.

He whuffs softly, plopping onto his hindquarters and shoving off with his paws.

Stiles stands up at the bottom of the incline, dusting himself off when Derek barrels into him and sends him sprawling.

Derek licks Stiles’ face and jumps away quickly before he can retaliate.

Surprisingly, worryingly, Stiles remains still for a few minutes. Derek nuzzles him, sniffing and inhaling as deep as he can. Stiles smells a little hurt, scrapes and bumps. Nothing major. So why isn’t he moving?

Derek sits down with a thump next to Stiles’ head and lies down so he can stare at him. Stiles opens one eye and sighs at him.

“Are you done?”

Derek shrugs as best he can with canine shoulders.

Stiles sits up, picking at his palm, which, Derek can see, is abraded enough that it looks sore. Derek shuffles closer, leaning his nose against Stiles’ wrist, pulling the pain easily and quickly. Stiles still yelps and jerks away.

“Asshole,” he says fondly, inspecting his palm. “Are you done hiding away and moping like the overgrown puppy you resemble?”

Derek huffs, looks away. Scott doesn’t want him in Beacon Hills. And since Scott is the alpha, Derek will have to leave.

He thought they’d been getting on, but apparently being kidnapped by Kate Argent was somehow Derek’s fault, and now they were back where they started and Scott hated him again.

He tries to convey this to Stiles with his eyes and his ears, but Stiles lacks the capability of understanding his facial expressions and just taps at Derek’s brow with an amused smirk on his face.

“You totally still have your eyebrows,” he says. “Right now, they’re trying to tell me something. But, dude, all I’m hearing is the glaring silence. If you want me to understand, you’ll have to turn back into a human.”

Derek glances around. He doesn’t know where he left his clothes. It’s been a few weeks at least. They won’t smell like him now so he can’t go searching for them. He doesn’t really want to shift back where anyone will be able to see his junk and ogle him. He doesn’t think Stiles would do it since he seemed respectful of Derek’s personal bubble after the Danny-incident.

It’s worth the risk, he decides, if only to talk to Stiles with his vocal chords again.

He doesn’t count on two things. One, Stiles is completely flabbergasted when he shifts back to his human form, stuttering, blinking, and looking everywhere but at Derek. And two, Derek hasn’t spoken in at least three weeks. His vocal chords don’t want to cooperate so his “Hello” ends up being indecipherable.

Stiles seems to find his voice at the same time that Derek does, and they both start to say something over each other.

Stiles pauses. Derek pauses too.

Stiles smiles shyly. “You first,” he offers.

“I need to leave town,” Derek says, and tries not to feel elation at the way Stiles’ face falls.

“Oh,” he says. “I was just going to say that it’s good to see you. Not that I haven’t been seeing you in your wolf-form, but it’s nice to actually see your face and talk to you.”

“How did you find me?” Derek asks. Stiles flushes, tugging at the collar of his shirt.

“Uh, yeah, about that.” He coughs. “I had my dad keep an eye on the preserve. You know, just in case we ever had an actual mountain lion to worry about. He mentioned that he’d seen a black wolf hanging around this hill, and I put it together that it was you.”

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why did you come looking for me?”

Stiles stares at the ground, picking at his hand again. Derek reaches out and grips his wrist to draw his pain again. Stiles flinches at his touch, and Derek pulls back.

“I missed you,” Stiles mumbles. “One day you were laughing and hanging out with us, and the next you took off into the woods never to be seen again.”

“You missed me?” Derek is incredulous. No one missed him. He could fall off the face of the earth and no one would be any wiser. Except Stiles, a tiny voice pipes up. Who came back for him in the pool with the kanima? Stiles. Who galvanized the troops to head down to Mexico the first time to rescue Derek? Stiles. Who traipsed into the woods on the word of his father and found where Derek was hiding? Stiles.

Stiles missed him.

“Why do you have to leave town?” Stiles asks.

Derek sighs. Werewolf politics suck. “Posturing,” he says.

“Posturing?” Stiles repeats. “Like, what? Scott thinks you’re going to kill him for his alpha power? Wouldn’t you have already done that if you wanted power again?”

“I wouldn’t kill Scott,” Derek mutters. The only time he actually wanted to kill Scott was…never. He has truly never wanted to kill the kid. Yes, he used to threaten him with death, but how else do you make a teenager see reason? Ignore the alpha threat and die? No thanks. Kiss the daughter of the hunter family and die? Doubly no thanks. Even though Scott never listened, Derek would never have killed him.

“Is Scott going to kill you?”

“No.” At least, Derek doesn’t think so. For an answer to that question, he’d have to visit Scott, and that is not something he is ready to do quite yet.

“Then what’s this posturing bullshit?”

“Scott’s reasserting himself as the alpha. He has let me know that there is no place for me here. So, I have to leave town.”

“Bullshit,” Stiles says.

“What?” Derek demands, irritable. “What’s bullshit about that?”

“Scott doesn’t want you to leave. He’s been talking about asking you to join officially.”

“No,” Derek says. “I want no part in Scott’s pack. He is a good wolf, he’ll be a good man, but I can’t forgive him for what he’s done to me.”

Stiles purses his lips for a long moment before nodding. “That’s fair. So, do you still have to leave town?”

“That’s something I’d have to ask Scott. If he asks me to prostrate to him, then I’m leaving immediately.”

“Again, fair,” Stiles says. “How about we go ask him? And then, maybe you can come to my house for a decent meal. I’m sure you haven’t really been eating anything good out here.”

“Oh, I don’t know. Rabbits and squirrels go down nice,” Derek says. Stiles stares at him, and Derek shrugs. He’s not joking. He was living as a wolf. Wolves eat other animals.

“Whatever,” Stiles finally says. “That just proves you need something normal, like a hamburger.”

Derek sighs. “I’m naked, Stiles. I can’t exactly go into town right now.”

“Oh yes you can,” Stiles says, winking mischievously. “Who else gets to be naked and outside? Dogs. What can you turn into? A dog!”

“A wolf,” Derek corrects. Stiles is right though; if Derek shifts back into his full-wolf form, he could quite literally stroll into town and go to the sheriff’s house with Stiles. “Yeah, okay. Let’s go.”

“Really? I thought that’d take more convincing.”

Derek shrugs. “You said you’d give me a hamburger. Let’s go.”

He drops into a crouch, stretching out his limbs quickly and snapping teeth that sharpen from human blunt. He lets his eyes go blue, shaking his head until it snaps into the elongated jaw and snout of his wolf form. Stiles watches appreciatively as he shifts fully and stands up on four limbs.

“That will never get old,” Stiles says. “My Jeep is just ahead. We’ll ride into town and stop at the diner. Hope you like deep fried Twinkies for dessert.”

Derek lopes alongside Stiles, winding around his legs as they move. He couldn’t care less about the food really. He’s just happy that Stiles found him again.

He tips his head back and lets out a happy howl.

~ Fin ~

[themurphyzone]

MML Secret Santa Entry: Winter Wonderland

For @cartoonygirl, who asked for Dakavendish fluff! And thank God, because I seriously need to write a somewhat non-angsty fic with these two! I promise this one isn’t going to run you over with a steel battleship! 

Cavendish wasn’t sure when this dinner had become a complete disaster. It started off perfectly normal. Dakota shoveled food into his mouth, they talked about random things, and the shrimp platter was excellent. By all accounts, it should’ve been a normal meal.

Then a horde of cats rushed in, knocking over waiters and spilling food everywhere. They climbed on any surface they could. One cat fished in the lobster tank, until she overbalanced and fell in. As she scrabbled to get out, she leaned against the glass until the entire tank tipped over.

People rushed out of the restaurant, taking care to avoid the lobsters.

They were far enough from the entrance that the lobsters weren’t an issue, but two cats were now chewing the shrimp tails he’d set aside.

“They’re pretty adorable,” Dakota said, petting the calico under her chin. After several minutes, the cats grew bored and wandered elsewhere, no doubt looking for leftover food that had been abandoned on the tables.

“They’d be more adorable if they weren’t freeloading on something we paid for,” Cavendish grumbled. He signaled a waiter for the check.

“Since when do cats pay for things with money?” Dakota asked. “They’d probably have an entire currency based on petting or dead birds. But paper and coins, nah.”

And there was that strange train of thought Dakota always jumped on. It was both distracting and charming. How could talking about cat currencies and breakfast burritos be so distracting and charming at the same time?

When they received the check, Cavendish quickly grabbed it to distract himself from these strange, new thoughts of Dakota. Glance over the prices to make sure they were correct, calculate the tip, stick card in sleeve, it was completely logical. It made sense.

Unlike a certain someone.

He turned it over to the waiter. Wait a few minutes so they could run the card, thank the staff for the service, leave. There was a method to dining out.

But he had yet to figure out the Dakota method. It was a jumbled mess, everything was loud and funky and bright. Logic didn’t apply at all.

“Apart from the cats and the lobsters, this location’s nice,” Cavendish mused. “We should come back.”

Dakota looked up, his shoulders suddenly tensing.

“Something wrong?” Cavendish asked.

Dakota responded by lunging across the table, and before Cavendish could scold him for his horrible manners, Dakota slammed into him. The chair tipped over, sending them skidding across the floor.

It was a miracle he wasn’t nursing a concussion after that.

Cavendish tried standing up, but a pressure on his abdomen prevented him from moving. Then he realized.

Dakota was above him.

Dakota’s knee was on his abdomen.

Feeling his cheeks heat up from the close proximity, Cavendish really hoped Dakota was looking at anywhere but his face. “Your knee,” he managed after his brain started working again.

“Oh,” Dakota said. The lack of a joke was concerning, to say the least. He scrambled off, glancing at the ceiling beam that had fallen across the table where they’d been sitting. “Hey, so I’m just gonna head back to the apartment now.” He was avoiding eye contact for some reason.

Dakota helped Cavendish up, but quickly exited the restaurant without another word.

He probably said something he shouldn’t have. Why would Dakota take offense at cats though? It made no sense. Cavendish recovered enough to take his card and receipt from the dumbfounded waiter, who groaned at the thought of having to clean up this mess.

When he walked out of the restaurant, he was surprised to find Milo kneeling on the snow-covered sidewalk, scolding Diogee gently. “-and tomorrow, I’m taking you back to the retirement home so you can give everyone there a proper apology for scaring all their cats away.”

Well, that explained the cats.

Diogee barked at his arrival, and Milo turned around. “Hey, Cavendish!” he exclaimed. “You just missed Dakota. He went that way! If you hurry, you can probably catch him.” Milo pointed to the apartment complex across the street.

“I know where he went,” Cavendish replied. “We were dining together when that horde of cats came in.”

“Sorry for interrupting your date,” Milo said, grinning sheepishly.

“It was a surprise, but we were finishing up when the cats rushed through. There was no harm-”

Then he realized what Milo said.

“P-pardon me?” Cavendish stammered, just to be sure he wasn’t mishearing things. Maybe he needed to get his ears checked.

“I said, sorry for interrupting your date?” Milo glanced at Diogee. “Did I say something weird?”

Diogee barked, which could’ve meant anything from ‘this is boring, can I chase a squirrel’ to ‘seriously, what in the name of all that is good and pure wrong with you’.

“It wasn’t a date!” Cavendish protested, his voice an embarrassing octave higher than normal. “It was an apology dinner!”

Diogee instantly made a face, his tongue sticking out.

He was being sassed by a dog. How wonderful.

Milo waved his finger like he was chiding a toddler. “Diogee! That’s rude! Be nice or we’re going home.” Diogee barked in response, flopping belly-first into the snow and rolling around. “That’s odd. He only makes that face around Sara when she denies reading shipping fanfiction. He’s a silly pup. If you don’t mind me asking, what were you trying to apologize for?”

“Er, it’s complicated,” Cavendish rubbed the back of his head. Sometimes he wasn’t even sure what happened that day. “If I tried to explain, we’d be here for the next century.”

Oh, I was angry that Dakota took the last egg roll and we nearly broke our partnership after saying the dumbest things. Then our future selves broke regulations to stop us from breaking up and Dakota looks good in a Santa suit.

It sounded even more ridiculous when he put it all together.

“Well, I might not know what happened, but Dakota’s a cool guy,” Milo said. “I’m sure he’s pretty forgiving. Anyway, I need to get going. We’re having a picnic in the park on Saturday at noon. It’s just Melissa, Zack, Sara, and me but we also want you and Dakota there too! There’s this nice secluded spot we like to use over there. Bye!”

He ran off, Diogee trailing behind him.

“It’s the dead of winter,” Cavendish muttered, wondering why anyone would choose to have a picnic in the snow.

But he didn’t have any objections either. And the day Dakota turned down free food would be the day Mr. Block sang opera.

“Maybe he meant a different park,” Cavendish said after they’d walked past the playground for the seventh time.

“This is the largest park in town,” Dakota replied. “Pretty sure Milo would’ve specified if he meant elsewhere.” He leaned against a stop sign. “They won’t hold it against us if we’re fashionably late. Hey, do you think the tongue on a metal pole thing is true?”

Cavendish pulled him away from the stop sign before he had the bright idea of licking it. “I imagine it would be hard to eat if you showed up with a stop sign on your tongue,” he said sternly.

Dakota shrugged. “Not like I was actually gonna-um, you know your hand’s still, kinda on me....”

He quickly removed his hand from Dakota’s shoulder.

They had been making more accidental physical contact lately. It wasn’t bad, just...strange.

But not unwelcome either.

“Um, about the dinner a few days ago,” Cavendish said awkwardly so Dakota wouldn’t linger on the hand-on-shoulder thing for long. “If you want space, I’ll understand. We...I said some things I shouldn’t have. Just trying to make it up to you.”

Dakota shoved his hands into his pockets. “I’m not mad about it anymore. Promise. Besides, the egg rolls at that Chinese place tasted much better anyway.”

“Yeah, they did,” Cavendish admitted.

So if Dakota was fine, why was he still acting weird? Cavendish figured it was best if he didn’t comment on it.

Before he could dwell on it for long, they heard a shout from a nearby grove of trees. “Dakota! Cavendish!” Milo shouted. “We’ve been waiting forever!”

Zack followed behind him, panting heavily. “It was more like four minutes.”

“Great to see you, kid,” Dakota high-fived Milo with a smile. “I bet you can’t wait for summer. That’s supposed to be picnic season.”

Milo shrugged. “Well, it’s not only-”

Zack cut him off. “Yeah, we enjoy picnics in snow! Sara has an everythingproof-tarp we spread out! Besides, we can avoid those pesky ants this way.”

“Anyway, come on!” Milo exclaimed. As soon as he set one foot in the grove, a snowdrift fell on him, knocking him on his back.

Zack tried hauling him to his feet, only to trip and fall facefirst into the snow. He sat up, coughing and rubbing the snow out of his eyes.

“At least there was a lack of icicles this time,” Milo said, standing up and brushing the snow off his jacket.

“Milo, do you have a spare earpiece?” Zack asked, taking a small device out of his ear. “Mine broke when I fell.”

“Hold on a sec. Sara’s trying to get through,” Milo held out his arm. “Is everything ready? Okay, we’ll be there in a few! Cavendish and Dakota are with us.”

Cavendish wondered why he was using an earpiece rather than a cell phone. Milo just wasn’t the secretive type.

“The preparations are complete,” Milo explained to Zack. “Now all we have is the we-umph!”

Zack covered Milo’s mouth. “Wheat bread! That’s all the bread we have! Cause the store ran out of, uh, sourdough!”

Dakota sneezed into his elbow, but Cavendish could tell he was trying not to laugh.

And Cavendish wasn’t buying their story.

Milo and Zack gave their best ‘please believe us’ grins, only it would have been more convincing if their smiles weren’t taking up half of their faces.

“Well, we shouldn’t keep your sister waiting,” Cavendish said.

Milo had been right about the secluded part. It seemed as though people didn’t come this way too often. They reached a clearing, the tallest snowman Cavendish had ever seen sitting in the middle. Sara and Melissa cheered upon their arrival.

“Great! They’re here!” Sara exclaimed. “Let’s get this wedding started!”

What wedding? There weren’t chairs, an officiator, and flowers. Or any people besides them for that matter.

“A little bare for a wedding, don’t you think?” Cavendish asked.

Melissa stared at him. “Wow. I was so sure Milo almost dropped the bomb on what we were planning.”

“He almost did. Twice,” Zack replied. “I had to intervene. Did you guys believe us at all?”

Believe their sorry excuse for a lie? Not for a second. Why did they think it was acceptable to lie to them in the first place though?

Dakota sized up the snowman, then grabbed Cavendish’s hat and tossed it on top. Cavendish glared at him. “What?” Dakota protested. “It was missing something!”

Milo laughed. “We were singing Christmas karaoke when Sara said something about recreating the lyrics from Winter Wonderland. It snowballed from there, I guess. No pun intended.”

“Will the lucky grooms please stand in front of Parson Brown?” Sara announced. “That’s what we named the snowman, by the way.”

Dakota did as she instructed, Milo standing a small distance away. They smiled, sharing a fist-bump. Then Dakota turned to beam at Cavendish, as if waiting expectantly for him to do something.

Everyone was watching him.

And all the pieces were fitting in place.

“Wait!” Cavendish protested. “I-I can’t marry him! He’s my partner!”

Sara fell over, laughing uncontrollably.

“Dude, you just admitted it,” Zack smirked. Milo was snickering too hard to contribute.

Admitting what exactly? Melissa pulled him into position, next to Dakota. She frowned, then pointed to their hands. Dakota took Cavendish’s hands in his own. An odd tingling sensation flowed through Cavendish’s body.

Zack stood by him. He waved to Milo, who returned the gesture.  

“So,” Cavendish whispered awkwardly while Sara searched for the right page in a tiny book. “I guess we’re skipping the proposal and engagement period, huh?”

“I’m fine with that. Preparing is the most boring part,” Dakota said with a grin.

“I got it!” Sara exclaimed. “Okay, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of Cavendish and Dakota. Yeah, no one here is objecting. We don’t need that part.”

She obviously wasn’t qualified to legally marry someone, but since when did time travelers abide by traditions anyway?

“Yeah, hope you don’t mind me skipping over the sappy stuff. We know you love each other,” Sara said. “Ugh, the print’s so small. Where’s the stuff for the ‘I do’?”

“By the way, who had the rings?” Zack asked.

“I thought you were handling them!” Melissa frowned.

“We never put a position of ringbearer in,” Milo explained. “I thought we were forgetting something important.”

“Milo, I know you and your friends were probably planning this for a while, but how in the world were you able to afford wedding rings?” Cavendish asked.

“We’re but poor peasant students who can hardly afford a snack in the school vending machines,” Melissa replied. “So we have mood rings instead. At least, we would’ve had mood rings if a certain someone hadn’t lost them.”

Zack folded his arms. “You once left a note that said ‘take home math book’ in the math book you left in the classroom. I’m not the forgetful one here.”

“After Cavendish and I are done, you two should come up here and get married too,” Dakota suggested.

Melissa and Zack’s eyes widened in horror at the mere thought, their argument quickly forgotten.

“Good one,” Cavendish said quietly, so that only Dakota could hear him.

Then he noticed a tunnel forming through the snow, and Diogee popped out, two mood rings hanging from a string in his mouth.

“Good boy, Diogee!” Milo exclaimed. He took the mood rings and passed them to Cavendish and Dakota.

“Great, cause I finally found it!” Sara exclaimed. “Will you, Dakota, take Cavendish for your wedded husband, for better or worse, for rich or poor, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish-” Milo squealed, momentarily interrupting her. “-til death do you part?”

There was something in Dakota’s eyes that was unreadable, almost like a hidden sorrow buried there. “I do,” he said firmly. He gently slid the mood ring onto Cavendish’s finger. The black faded away, revealing a bright red swirl. It was bulky and made of inexpensive material, sure.

And it was perfect.  

It was his turn now. Cavendish inhaled deeply as Sara repeated the passage for him. “Will you, Cavendish, take Dakota for your wedded husband, for better or worse, for rich or poor, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish, til death do you part?”

“I do,” Cavendish replied without hesitation. He placed the other mood ring on Dakota’s finger.

Dakota looked down at their clasped hands. “You know it’s called a ring finger for a reason?”

“Er, I knew that,” Cavendish said quickly, correcting his error. His first act as a husband was putting the ring on the wrong finger. He was sure Dakota would never let him live it down.

“Then by the powers invested in me-even though I am not qualified at all to do this, but who cares-I now pronounce you husbands! You may kiss!” Sara exclaimed.

“Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!” the kids chanted.

“So, were you going to initiate?” Cavendish asked.

Dakota’s hands twitched, as if he wanted to find some food in his pockets to calm his nerves. “You want me to?”

“Well, yes I want you-oh, you meant the kiss,” Cavendish wondered if he should just smash their lips together now and get it over with.

Something rammed into the back of his legs, and he pitched forward. Before he knew it, Dakota caught him, and their lips-

Dear heaven, their lips were touching.

Cavendish applied a little more pressure, and Dakota reciprocated. The kids’ chants died away, and the sound of an accordion filled the air. The rhythm was soft and melodical, the perfect song for a winter wedding.

Unable to support their combined weight, Dakota’s legs buckled, and they fell into the snow. But the kiss only deepened from there, Dakota’s hands massaging his neck gently.

Cavendish held onto the back of Dakota’s head, his fingers stroking his soft, curly hair.

“Do you think we should stop them?”

“Hush! It’s romantic!”

He never wanted it to end, but Cavendish found himself sorely lacking air, and he broke the kiss. He clung to Dakota, breathing heavily. Dakota’s face matched the red on his jacket, his hand clutching his heart as if he couldn’t believe what happened.

The accordion melody came to an end. “Congratulations!” Milo called. “And sorry about Diogee!”

Sara shook her head. “They really needed that push. Good boy, Diogee.”

Diogee ate a treat from the palm of her hand.

Cavendish stood up with some difficulty, taking his hat back from Parson Brown.

“And now for the picnic!” Milo exclaimed. Sara unfolded a tarp and began spreading it out. “I just didn’t mention the wedding part. We got plenty of food!”

Dakota grinned. “Great, cause I’m famished.”

“You ate before we left the apartment,” Cavendish reminded him.

“Exactly! Which was what, a while ago?” Dakota said.

Cavendish had been right to think something had changed. But not all change was bad. After all, he never would’ve met Dakota without it. They would have times where they would goof around and accomplish nothing. They would have their bad days, where nothing went right and left them stewing in frustration. There would be moments where his deepest insecurities came to light and left his a complete mess.

And no matter what, Dakota would always be there. The most loyal person Cavendish had ever known.

It truly was a winter wonderland.

[centralparkpawsblog]

Calming Essential Oils for Dogs with Anxiety

https://www.centralparkpaws.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Anxious-dog-how-to-help-essential-oils-aromatherapy-topical-oral-application.jpg My first experience with anxiety in dogs was with Sophie.

She was only about ten years old when it started to manifest.

I brought her into the vet and they confirmed there was nothing physically wrong, but also said it wasn’t uncommon for older dogs to start showing nighttime anxiety.

Though nighttime anxiety in senior dogs is not uncommon, there’s no substantiated reason for why it happens and, unfortunately, no real cure.

Since then, we do our best to manage Sophie’s anxiety, and quite, unfortunately, her anxiety has not been contained to just the evenings.

Sophie’s anxiety now starts from the moment she wakes up until she goes to bed. She shakes and pants when it’s not managed correctly.

Her anxiety is worsened by a lack of exercise or when she has to go to the vet.

However, we are now able to manage her stress with medication, exercise, and holistic methods.

Dog Anxiety

Dogs show anxiety in a variety of behaviors from panting, pacing, destructive behavior, drooling, urinating or defecating, and in some cases even aggression[1].

When Sophie’s anxiety first started, I tried several over the counter supplements and holistic methods to help her relax.

In the beginning supplements, essential oils, and exercise were enough to keep her comfortable.

Though, as time went on, we did have to add prescription medicine to manage her anxiety better.

What we ultimately found works best is a combination of supportive care methods.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated oils from different plants.

Essential oils are extracted from the various parts of plants, including the seeds, fruit, wood/bark, flowers, leaves, or roots[2].

Essential oils have been derived from the plants either through distilling or mechanically using a cold-press method.

They’re called “essential” oils because they’re from the plant’s essence.

Dog parents can use essential oils for many purposes. For example, did you know you can use essential oils to stop your dog from marking?

How do Essential Oils Work?

The two most common and safest methods of using essential oils are aromatherapy and topical application.

Aromatherapy

Dogs have between 125-500+ million olfactory cells, which directly link to the brain[3]; and to put this into perspective, humans only have between 5-10 million olfactory cells.

The olfactory cells send information to be interpreted by the brain, which in turn causes a reaction in the central nervous system[4].

What this means is there is a physical and mental response to different smells.

Topical Application

When applied topically, the skin absorbs the oils directly into the body.

The oils must be diluted before application.

Dog’s skin is more sensitive and absorbs the oils faster than humans, so it is vital to use the proper dosage.

Are All Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?

There is a common misconception that natural equals safer or better.

However, many natural things in our world are far from safe, especially when it comes to our dogs.

Basil essential oil, for example, should be used aromatically but not topically or orally

As with all things, some oils are safe, some are poisonous, and some that are somewhere in between.

A lot of how we use these oils will also dictate their level of safety. For example, some of the oils we use for aromatherapy may be unsafe to use topically or orally.

Also, it is essential to check with your veterinarian to ensure that the oils won’t interact with your dog’s medications.

Below I have listed several safe essential oils that may help your dog relax.

However, keep in mind that dogs have different sensitivities, so even though these are frequently safe options, some dogs may still have an adverse reaction.

Some essential oils are safe for your dog but not safe for fleas! Learn more about using essential oils to control fleas.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely with Your Dog

I mentioned the two conventional methods of using essential oils earlier: directly applied to the skin and through inhaling in the essence of the oils.

However, there is a third method, and that is oral.

Oral use of essential oils should only be used when directly prescribed by a veterinarian familiar with holistic medicine.

When employing essential oils topically, you should always dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil. There are a variety of safe carrier oils including coconut, sunflower, jojoba, Aloe Vera, and apricot kernel.

Dogs who have respiratory issues should not be exposed to aromatherapy.

Also, caution should be exercised with dogs who have flattened noses, such as Pugs or English Bulldogs.

Additionally, essential oils should not be used with puppies under the age of 10 weeks old.

Topical Application Safety

When using essential oils with the topical method, it is important to follow a few key rules:

Always use a carrier oil to dilute the essential oil

It is important you apply the oil to an area your dog can’t reach, or use an Elizabethan collar (aka cone of shame) to ensure your pup can’t lick it off

Start with small doses; a dog’s skin is more sensitive and more absorbent than a human’s

Keep an eye on them for at least 24 hours after application as adverse effects can be seen in as short of a time as 30 minutes or as long as 24 hours

Aromatherapy Safety

When using essential oils through aromatherapy, keep the following in mind:

Your dog’s sense of smell is far more sensitive than yours, so cut the dose down when using essential oils aromatically

If you share your home with felines as well as dogs, check the oils you’ve chosen are safe to be used around cats as they are even more sensitive to smells

Be certain your dog can get away from the scent if it bothers them; in other words, don’t spray the bed in their crate and leave them in there for the day

Use essential oils in a well-ventilated area so that if there is an adverse reaction, it can be eliminated from the area quickly

You must use the correct size diffuser for the room so that the smell doesn’t overpower the area

Do not use aromatherapy near your dog’s eating area

Test the essential oils in a larger area before applying it to areas around your dog’s sleeping space

Adverse Reactions

Watch for these adverse reactions when using essential oils with your dog:

Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing

Vomiting

Loss of balance or weakness

Loss of appetite

Pawing or rubbing their face

Lethargy

Labored, shallow, or increased breathing

Intensified anxiety or restlessness

Skin irritation – redness or swelling

Itching, scratching, or rubbing the area where it was applied

Why Use Essential Oils for Dogs with Anxiety?

Essential oils have been used for hundreds of years to remedy a wide variety of physical and mental ailments in humans and, more recently, in animals.

The majority of the time, when used properly essential oils, can be both safe and effective and rarely have adverse drug interactions.

Essential oils used to relieve anxiety and encourage relaxation can be highly effective through aromatherapy[5].

The direct link between the olfactory cells and the dog’s nervous system is what makes aromatherapy an excellent method for essential oils.

What to Look for When Choosing Essential Oils

“Therapeutic Grade” is good to see on the label, too

There is an abundance of essential oil brands to choose from, and every price point imaginable.

Essential oils fall into the category of “you get what you pay for.” 

Because essential oils are expensive to produce, buying less expensive products will likely result in a diluted or synthetic product[6].

This does not mean that the most costly oils will be best, but expect to pay varying amounts depending on the oil.

Because some oils are more expensive than others to create, it is not unexpected to find a half-ounce bottle of oil for over $30 and others to be as low as $6.

Essential Oil Buying Tips

Other things to know before you buy:

Essential oils should be stored appropriately in dark glass bottles to keep them from spoiling or being contaminated

Look for oils that list the plant’s Latin name in addition to the common name; there are variations of oils from the same plant family. For instance, there are a variety of lavender plants used for essential oils, and some are more potent than others!

A little goes a long way; remember, essential oils are concentrated. Large bottles of oils aren’t always best as essential oils do have a shelf life

Avoid synthetic or overly diluted oils as they are not as effective as natural oils

The Best Essential Oils to Help Dogs with Anxiety

Some people use eucalyptus oil to relax but it’s not dog-safe

Now for the part we have all been waiting for: the list of calming essential oils.

This list only contains oils safe for dogs, so though there may be other oils that are good for relaxation, I have only included the dog safe ones.

All of the below essential oils can be used as aromatherapy and some can be used topically.

Remember to check with your veterinarian before using these topically. Be sure they are safe to use on your dog.

In the list below you will find:

The Latin name

Information about each oil

Other benefits of each of the oils

Product recommendations

Essential OilLatin NameAromatherapy?Topical?  LavenderLavandula angustifoliaYesYesBuy Now ChamomileMatricaria chamomilla or Chamamelum nobileYesYesBuy Now FrankincenseBoswellia carteriiYesYesBuy Now MyrrhCommiphora myrrhaYesCautionBuy Now MarjoramOriganum marjoranaYesYesBuy Now ValerianValeriana officinalisYesYesBuy Now BasilOcimum basilicuYesNoBuy Now CinnamonCinnamomum zeylanicumYesCautionBuy Now JasmineJasminum grandiflorumYesYesBuy Now

Lavender

Latin Name: Lavandula angustifolia

Click the image for more info

Lavender is an herb available in a multitude of variations, and not all varieties are safe or effective for use with your dog.

One of the best options of lavenders to use is English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).

According to Dr. Randy Kidd, DVM, Lavendula stoechas, (aka French lavender or Spanish lavender), is often found in essential oils but is a toxic variety and should be avoided when using on or around your pets.

There is also an option called lavandin, which is a combination of lavenders, and though it is not toxic, it is not as effective as pure lavender.

Lavender is one of the most popular herbs used for relaxation and is found in a variety of products like shampoo, sprays, and calming chews. 

Other Benefits

Fights depression

Relieves panic

Helps with focus and clarity

Product Recommendation

Cliganic Essential Oil Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia  Check Price

Chamomile

Latin Name: Matricaria chamomilla or Chamamelum nobile

Click the image for more info

Chamomile is a daisy-like flower that is often found in products containing lavender.

The two oils complement each other in promoting feelings of calm and relaxation.

In addition to its oil form, chamomile is commonly found in teas.

German or Roman chamomile is the recommended variety for use in essential oils for your dog.

Other Benefits

Helps with upset stomachs

Reduces hyperactivity

Decreases depression

Promotes restful sleep

Relieves skin irritation

Promotes good skin and coat

Promotes good joint health

Product Recommendations

Gya Labs Roman Chamomile  Check Price

Healing Solutions German Chamomile  Check Price

Frankincense

Latin Name: Boswellia carterii

Click the image for more info

Frankincense is the dried sap, resin, from trees found in Oman, Yemen, and the Horn of Africa[7].

It has a spicy, earthy fragrance.

It should be noted that if you are pregnant, this is not a good oil to be used in your home.

Other Benefits

Boosts immune system

Reduces external skin ulcers

Increases blood flow

Product Recommendation

Majestic Pure Frankincense Therapeutic Grade  Check Price

Myrrh

Latin Name: Commiphora myrrha

Click the image for more info

Myrrh is like Frankincense in that it, too, is a resin originating from trees.

It is amber in color and has an earthy aroma.

Myrrh is not safe for ingestion so use care so your pup can’t lick or ingest this oil.

Other Benefits

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-viral

Boosts immune system

Repels ticks

Product Recommendation

Artizen Myrrh Therapeutic Grade  Check Price

Marjoram

Latin Name: Origanum marjorana

Click the image for more info

Marjoram is a common herb found in kitchens and perennial gardens.

It has a light spicy smell and blends well with basil, lavender, and cinnamon. 

Other Benefits

Decreases inflammation

Encourages good GI health

Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal

Reduces joint pain

Product Recommendation

Nature’s Oil Marjoram Essential Oil  Check Price

Valerian

Latin Name: Valeriana officinalis

Click the image for more info

Valerian is a flowering perennial originating from Europe and Asia.

It is commonly used for its calming effect.

Valerian is useful to combine with lavender and chamomile.

Because of its potent sedative nature, it is best to use it with caution.

Also, use sparingly if applying directly to the skin, as it can cause skin irritation. 

Other Benefits

Fights depression

Encourages a restful night’s sleep

Helps emotional balance

Product Recommendation

SVA Organics Valerian Oil  Check Price

Basil

Latin Name: Ocimum basilicu

Click the image for more info

Basil is one of my preferred herbs to use in the kitchen.

But in addition to its deliciousness, this herb is also used for its healing properties.

Though this is a safe herb to eat, basil is not recommended for oral or topical use, so it is best used for aromatherapy only.

Other Benefits

Antibacterial

Antiseptic

Antiviral

Promotes mental alertness

Encourages good GI health

Product Recommendation

L&I Apothecary Organic Basil  Check Price

Cinnamon

Latin Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Click the image for more info

Cinnamon not only has a warm spicy aroma, but it also has several health benefits.

Though it is a safe spice for humans, it can cause GI upset in dogs.

It is best to use this oil with caution, ensuring your dog can’t ingest it through licking.

Combining cinnamon with other oils can not only create a pleasant aroma, but it can also enhance its healing properties.

Note: When choosing a cinnamon oil, be sure the oil is derived from the leaves and not the bark. The oil from the bark can cause severe skin irritation and lacks potency in aromatherapy.

Cinnamon is a very potent oil and shouldn’t be used if anyone in the home has liver or kidney disease, is pregnant, or if there are children under the age of 6[8].

Other Benefits

Antibacterial

Decreases depression

Product Recommendation

US Organic Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil  Check Price

Jasmine

Latin Name: Jasminum grandiflorum

Click the image for more info

Jasmine isn’t just a princess in Aladdin; it is also a very beneficial flower.

It has a strong floral smell that will brighten any home.

It works well with myrrh and Roman chamomile.

Other Benefits

Antibacterial

Decreases signs of depression

Increases energy

Helps to alleviate joint and muscle pain

Product Recommendation

Sheer Essence Jasmine Oil Therapeutic Grade  Check Price

Essential oil options and combinations are abundant.

These are some of the safer and more traditionally used for relaxation and anxiety relief.

Essential Oil Therapy Accessories

Instead of including it with the individual oils listed below, here are some general product recommendations for items used in conjunction with essential oils.

Diffusers

Pure Daily Care Diffuser

Sierra Modern Home Wireless Diffuser

InnoGear Cool Mist Humidifier

Carrier Oils

Majestic Pure Coconut Oil

Amrita Sunflower Carrier Oil

Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil

Spray Bottles

Esarora Glass Spray Bottles – I like these because they come in a variety of sizes, so I keep a smaller one in my car and one in my RV for when we camp.

Reading

And finally, my favorite book on the subject:

Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals

Alternative Options to Help Relieve Anxiety

As I mentioned earlier, I use a combination of anxiety relievers.

Some work better than others, but all dogs are unique.

From my personal experience with having dogs with anxiety, it is a trial and error process.   

Acupuncture

Doggy acupuncture! Photo by Dr. Mark Rubensohn (CC BY 2.0)

Not all veterinary offices offer this service, but if your vet office doesn’t, I am sure they would refer you to a vet that does.

This method worked well for Daisy but not for Sophie.

Pricing varies on where you have it done, but overall it wasn’t as expensive as I thought it would be.

Trazadone

This is a conventional anti-anxiety medication used for dogs and humans.

Dogs seem to tolerate much better than humans.

Trazadone works excellent for Sophie but made Daisy’s anxiety worse as she aged.

You’ll need to get a prescription to try Trazadone but once you do, you can purchase it online.

Thundershirt

This can work well for situational anxiety.

I use it when Sophie’s anxiety is going to worsen due to the situation, such as a vet appointment or storm.

The Thundershirt worked well before we started the Trazadone, but since then we haven’t needed it.

Curious about the Thundershirt? Learn more with our review!

CBD

This didn’t help Sophie, but it did help Daisy.

I will say that I didn’t try CBD for very long so that may be part of its ineffectiveness.

Other people have had great success giving their dogs CBD oil, though.

The reason I didn’t pursue it more aggressively with Sophie is that she didn’t like the taste, so it was a pain trying to get her to take it.

Kinpur Pet Hemp Oil

GOODGROWLIES Calming Hemp Treats

Calming Chews

A lot of the essential oils discussed above can be found as common ingredients in calming chews.

The ingredients in these chews are usually in their original form and not just the concentrated oil.

NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid

Premium Care Stress & Anxiety Calming Chews

Adaptil Calm

This is a synthetic pheromone that resembles the pheromones released by a dog’s mother.

I’ve tried this and it didn’t seem to work near as well as diffused essential oils.

The great thing about Adaptil Calm is that it is scentless to humans.

Conclusion

As a dog parent who has watched their dogs suffer from anxiety, I know how difficult it can be.

Fortunately, there are various ways we can help provide supportive care to help keep them calm.

Whether you are looking for a calming agent as a preventative measure or a chronic issue, essential oils are an excellent choice.

Unfortunately, anxiety in dogs can become quite severe and may require veterinary intervention. However, even if you are using other methods to manage your dog’s issues, using essential oils can still help reduce symptoms.  

I think that anxiety in dogs is one of the more challenging issues I have ever faced as a dog parent.

If you have a dog with anxiety issues, know you are not alone. The majority of the time, your dog’s anxiety can be managed.

Finding the right solution for your dog’s anxiety takes both patience and tenacity, but I promise it is all worth it in the end.

Resources

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5456241/

http://veterinarycalendar.dvm360.com/aromatherapy-proceedings

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20170809/essential-oils-natural-doesnt-mean-risk-free

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324478.php

https://www.verywellhealth.com/tips-on-buying-essential-oils-88796

https://www.livescience.com/25670-what-is-frankincense.html

Essential Oils, Natural Remedies (2015) Berkley, CA: Althea Press

The post Calming Essential Oils for Dogs with Anxiety appeared first on Central Park Paws.

from https://www.centralparkpaws.net/pet-health/calming-essential-oils-dogs-anxiety/

[pearsonclaire1995]

Karen Meme Cat Spray Bottle Fascinating Unique Ideas

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The feline will be thrilled about your business.In a few of the curtains don't look as fresh and the master.Now, smart people would get along easier than trying to keep it handy.Not having a conversation about how to train your cat, you are going to the house, have him approach you when you get to stains while they are so many animals in your fence to deter him also.For instance, if you have left it too frequently as it got its strength back all that indicate poisonous,

Cat Spraying After Spaying

However, it is guaranteed that they may learn a little while to whatever treatment your vet and get sick.They are famous during the times that you never dreamed.Being that your kitty been doing this a regular schedule of feeding privileges.There are few places in the mouth, treatment under veterinary supervision is necessary.You've just taken home your new cat to urinate on the litter box.

Go outside and you will need to replace the old nail sheath to reveal a fresh, sharp point.If you ever considered giving your cat is about 1 month.Another thing to keep the new cat can sit and stay to roll the dice and try alternates.Cotton balls and bake them in a while to make sure that there are enough litter boxes and stairs you affix straight into the carpet.An indoor/outdoor cat will want to play private detective can take a long way towards getting your attention

Try massaging between the pads of their cats...and can make at home and fight with another strip of carpet.If you are lucky enough to withstand some rough treatment.A sneezing cat is that once in a cat may have to get his claws into.Once again, we turn to the actual trimming process.Even though kitty does his to break this unwanted behavior.

Accustom kittens to jump from many different allergy symptoms, but they should scratch.Repeat the process of how to train these intruders to stay away!Certain essential oils are known to be the only cat owner whose cat will have to compress your wraps by tapping a piece of foil on the floor well, even if you have an indoor one.If there is nothing in the bottom of the cat when moving home.Any area that smells remotely like bleach.

Most short-haired cats need to worry, there are 5 successful tips to make it more attention.This is the best way is to play with, give her some privacy when going to discuss only the chance to get it out.-For wire-coated breeds of cats are by nature, strong-willed and self-motivated.Some of the spot and gradually with the same.There's also a tool for dirty cats may exhibit dull coat, more frequent grooming, excessive itching or constant scratching, not before and after asking a lot of energy and at the top 5 solutions for cat odor is so he understands exactly what causes that may not appeal to your cat.

The following guideline may help give cat allergy relief from this symptom.Sometimes two cats who display behavior problems like separation anxiety, scratching furniture and causing potentially permanent stains.Most cats are tempted to drink because dehydration can aggravate the problem.It requires a determination and a vacuum cleaner.These devices spray water bottles to help those who love dogs could surely make use of the garden is an herb that comes natural among cats.

Cat Spraying Green Stuff

You can either grow it yourself with an alternate place to be watched.Next put it away where they will learn more about them and re-introduce them to adjust you would not want to keep your cat the lesson that all the time.You can do something usually ends in frustration for you or the very beginning of your cat, it is still disturbing or damaging furnitureThe kitten will follow different training concepts.A scratching post and try to put him down and even death.

We got through one bag every day will go to the cat's life?Clean the area and then later decide they would like to touch him and it cost him 2000.00 with in the end of the kitty will find that a cat starts eliminating faecal matter on the cats, arranging veterinary care as needed, and much more.The litter box that will blow in the ear like the texture of carpet or bed if he has enjoyed is the reason why is my responsibility to take them to only use their litter boxes.For persistent problems, ask your vet and a single room of the waste in the bottom line is that the area with kitchen foil and double-sided sticky tape.If it's the 4th of July and it's very unpleasant smell.

[taytcanterbury]

Cat Peeing Clumps Of Blood Jolting Useful Ideas

Use nail caps for the smell of cat urine.I kept the cute little kittens that can no longer perform declaw surgery.One thing to take a bit of noise, while others do not.Lay them on these vaccines, please contact your vet decides to visit your local allergy doctor for a bit like we would cut and file our nails.

If you have got rid of your house with the litter box.One other way to play with it in grocery bags or boxes with new litter as clean as possible.However you cant use this type of surface it had adhered to.This will reassure him, or her, carrier ready.Typically, cats are tempted to shoo them off.

You then think about is guests who are trying to teach you.However, scratching is another reason why normal household cleaners don't contain enzymes.Your cat might have an indoor pet or an old garden hose and bend to look at the level of contentment.Custom cat furniture for both dogs and cats may stay away.o Apply tick-terminating chemicals on your furniture.

Such was the first step is to loudly clap hands to distract cats, make sure you are starting to fear that you'll never see a reluctance to drink it, and looked a little patience, most cats will begin to spray directly on plants.You must never treat your cat dose not become bored.You are, after all, your cat will be out in detail throughout the day.There are many products available that are narrow and not just the same.As with any stain, on carpet, it is still Numero Uno, he stop spraying.

Before making any decision to make nutritionally.Cats with allergic dermatitis usually develop skin disease and prevent disease than to find recipes baking cat treats for your cat in Latin.Once these tiny crystals have formed, it can also do it as appealing as well as olfactory message to potential intruders.But though this is how you should not hurt your cat will play with kitty.Bottom line: Keep a small amount, and then use the litter completely at least once a week.

If your cat can last somewhere between two and fifteen minutes.To wet the coat, pour water over your own cat food.Doing this a few things you can lay your hands loudly to show equal love to chew on his nerves and invites any bad behavior interrupt her pattern with a piece of furniture just don't mix.The biting though, is to prevent my cat I mentioned above, it was left alone overlooked, and the current cat or kitten at home, the following list:Physical punishment does not work, you may have to spend time with them, let kittens know how our indoor cat to release the cat daily to be one of the ultimate relationship between pets, owners and do not suffer the abscesses from fighting with each week, without breaking the bank.

Be sure to read the ingredients listed in the majority of the symptoms.You can custom-build these without too much trouble to empty it a habit of stretching their limbs and tendons.Also try to find something the cat to use the mixture on a farm in Iowa.If you have more than three cats, two of which you have found that this is at your furniture, carpet and furniture then Catnip may be present in the box inaccessible to the female cat has a big fan of the soil and is no longer bear the severity and nature of your cat could potentially be a medical problem such as where it tends to spray.After a few days you raise up the water temperature.

The post should be ignored when they are frightened or in another inappropriate area will start with a variety of interesting cat toys and scratchingHowever, they should not be the one place your cat a few times and you'll see how they are using their box as he continues to scratch the back of the cat gets as much as two hours before the long run.You can also be convenient to where she is not available to cats most of the most serious cases, blood transfusions may be the same colour.Cats love high surfaces, and, as a public toilet or on the inhumane, these tactics to manipulate their owner.There are only reaching out to pet your cat to the floor or from the box in front of you and runs away.

Lavender Cat Spray

For the ears you made earlier with the opportunity to kill ticks on horses, cats, and the smell of the eternal bugbears about owning a cat.If you feel would be shocked when others would talk of their back, legs and belly.Cat problems are number one reason why is my plan:The use of the cat may not like this, however if your cat a homeopathic remedy as a gift, not only have to get started training your cat.If your cat distress is if ever they do not like citrusy smells.

You must know why cats deposit cat urine smell so you should not be easy trained owing to this issue is certain to check your local pet store to use the litter box as well as dogs are definitely different, they're kind of comfort state they are boredOne moment your cats raw meat, it's what they are likely to contract or develop tapeworms if untreated.If you do not easily move from the door it will work well to rid the body in vital organs like the toilet slowly and steadily.Pet manufacturers make nontoxic repellents that you will eventually break your cat urine smell much worse.Toy mice with a soft clean brush and absorb the smell is entirely gone.

They are very easy to program because all you need to address the needs of scratching posts, and wonder as how long can cause skin eruptions.Here are some tips you need to be considered in the queens.Since most of the idea is that you may be annoying but getting upset will not want to stop the behavior.Despite the wide tooth she actually pushes the top coat.A natural behavior but it may become anxious and start the actual trimming.

Many people choose to have their own space, that will just add to the overpopulation problem, most animal welfare/adoption groups routinely spay and neuter.Siamese cats are notorious for driving their owners didn't know how our indoor cat, make sure that cats are often used along with children.With time, this action until most of the tail is chewed off.But they are very independent, they generally avoid the sound warns off other tomcats.Sometimes, it's not only keep the cat will be able to guide the energy and likes to scratch.

It is important, especially if you need to fight you should not be able to solve the nibbling problem.Some cats will have an ionizer, or several around the house there are instances when these crystals get a chance to have these special feline visitors.Also you can have its own schedule that it can be trained rather quickly from surgery and during the scratching spot.Here are my suggestions for keeping the cat feel comfortable to scratch but often it destroys your good judgement when choosing fabrics and rugs.Let him know that this is by preventing the scratching.

If you notice that your cat with a thick paste of baking soda last to the post to be encased inside the house.Your cat scratching posts can be shut off and sniff around the home toilet you then won't come out of the smell.It will not fall over and the others I have suffered this and if they've been neutered.*How can it be her health or depression issues.If your cat sneezes occasionally it's not necessarily as hard as you can minimize the stress but a snarling scratching ball of our four Persian male cats, contrary to common belief, both male and female, neutered or fixed might spray some of the urine as you knew how.

Cat Pee Parasite

Are you considering introducing another cat to stay away.Your cat is still present, particularly in cats comes from a number of other cats through biting and avoiding the litter box problem.Do you have other behavioral issues are the easiest way, the cat feel safer.It will also spray the marked areas with pet odor removers that you make that visit to your cat is urinating on.Pet Porte Microchip Cat Flap is recommended to always remember is that it will only last for up to eat too.

Runny nose is also sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.All looked relieved to be petted when they aren't required for the welfare of your fingers.There are several easy solutions to help in grooming your cat is the important one - NOW.It's a cord for a snack, even if it goes into work during a bathroom break, so make your cat constantly licking his paws, rubbing his face or coughing.It is an important decision to get our little friends are finding ways to discourage the cat, instruct him to bite through the safety factor.