Here in Zambia, we don’t really celebrate Halloween or “spooky season” the way it’s done overseas—but I often wish we did. I see how much fun children have with all the decorations, candy, and of course, every adorable Halloween costume, and I can’t help but want Gia to experience that too.
So, I’ve made it a little tradition of ours to bring some Halloween magic into our home. Every year, Gia gets to dress up in a fun Halloween costume, and the best part is pairing her look with Zamba and Kiki. It’s our own way of celebrating, capturing the cutest kid-and-dog costume moments for the ’gram and making memories we’ll treasure forever.
There’s nothing cuter (or more Instagram-worthy!) than kids and dogs dressed up in coordinating Halloween costumes, and this is what I try and achieve for Gia each Halloween since that’s where “spooky season” ends for us…
We’ve rounded up the best dog and kid Halloween costume ideasthat are equal parts cute and creative. Plus, we’ll share some of our past looks (with links!) so you can get the perfect matching Halloween look for you and your fur family – and don’t forget to tag us in your Halloween posts 🙂
Happy Halloween costume shopping, we hope to have inspired you to match with your furry loves this Halloween! Tag us in your posts and follow us on Instagram @stylish_paws to see what we get up to this Halloween!
Back-to-school season brings a big shift for every family, including the four-legged family members! Gia’s been on school holidays for the past 8 weeks, and we have thoroughly enjoyed our lazy mornings and endless play sessions, cuddles, and a house full of energy!
While we’re excited for new routines, and what year two at school brings for Gia, Kiki and especially Zamba struggles to settle into the back-to-school routine!
So here are a few thoughtful adjustments to help ease your pup into the back-to-school routine…
1. Establish a Predictable Routine
Just like us, dogs thrive on routine. When Gia goes back to school, I try to maintain a consistent schedule for school run, meals, and playtime.
Morning: wake up & enjoy school run before breakfast
Afternoon: I try give them a boredom buster
Evening: Family playtime to burn off energy
A predictable routine helps your dog feel secure and less stressed when the house is empty during the day.
2. Create a Cozy Comfort Zone
I never exclude Kiki and Zamba in any room and often I will find them curled up on Gia’s bed or in her playroom, especially in the early days of back-to-school. You can set up a special area in your home where your dog feels safe and relaxed while the family is out.
Include:
A comfy dog bed or blanket
A favourite toy or two
Calming items like an unwashed T-shirt with their tiny humans scent (this works really well!)
This designated spot becomes your dog’s “home base” and signals that downtime is okay. My office is probably Kiki and Zamba’s “home base” for quiet time, they love curling up under my desk while I work.
3. Tire Them Out Before You Leave
A tired dog is a happy dog! Before school or work, spend 15-20 minutes on activities that burn energy. When dogs start the day with exercise, they’re less likely to become anxious or destructive when left alone, however I am home a lot because I work from home but on days when I am out or in and out a lot I prioritise a quick game of fetch for Zamba and I offer Kiki a chew toy she can bury!
A brisk morning walk
A short game of fetch in the yard
Quick obedience training for mental stimulation
4. Keep Their Minds Busy
Dogs get bored just like we do. I like to give Kiki and Zamba interactive toys and puzzles or bones (dog safe ones) to keep them mentally stimulated while I am busy with my day.
Lick mats or frozen Kongs
Treat-dispensing puzzle toys (timer based ones are awesome!)
Snuffle mats for scent games
Mental enrichment is key to easing separation anxiety and preventing mischief. Get 10% off SODAPUP enrichment bowls and toys using our code STACEY —> Click here to shop
7. Include Your Pup in Activities
Zamba’s favourite part of his back-to-school routine is going on school run! If you follow us on Instagram then you will know exactly what I am talking about. His second favourite time of the day is when Gia gets home from school!
Take them on school runs if you can
Play a quick fetch game in the backyard
Let your pup “help” with homework by sitting nearby
This helps them reconnect with the family and burn off that “I missed you all day!” energy.
8. Give Them Extra Love & Patience
Remember: your pup doesn’t understand why life suddenly changed. A little patience, attention, and reassurance goes a long way in helping them adapt to the new routine.
Back-to-school season can be an adjustment for the whole family — but especially for our loyal pups. With a consistent routine, mental stimulation, and plenty of love, your dog will transition smoothly into this quieter season of the year.
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Don’t forget to follow our daily chaos we call life on Instagram.
*this post contains affiliate links but only to products we use and truly love!
When you work with brands, some products impress you, and some completely change your routine. Pets Are Kids managed to do both! As a longtime pet influencer and dog mom, I’ve tried it all, or at least I thought I had… Make room for the Pets are Kids Mushroom Chews and Doggy Dental Spray, and after testing these out on Kiki and Zamba, I can say with confidence, these are keepers.
Mushroom Chews for Dogs: Healthy Treats With a Purpose
When you hear “mushrooms for dogs,” it might sound strange but these aren’t just any mushrooms. Pets Are Kids have created a delicious, functional treat that Kiki and Zamba love and I can trust.
Why we love them:
Packed with functional mushrooms: Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, known for supporting immunity, gut health, skin, coat, joints, and brain function.
Perfect for all dogs: Soft chews are ideal for seniors, picky eaters, and even puppies. Kiki was not a fan of eating them plain, so I simply added it to her breakfast and she gobbled it up like it was part of her meal 😉
Visible results: More energy, shinier coats, and overall wellness you can see. Both Kiki and Zamba recently injured their legs and if you’ve followed along you will notice how both of them have made a full recovery- no surgery required! Need I say more…
These chews feel like you’re giving your dog a “treat” that secretly delivers superfood benefits.
The Doggy Dental Spray: My New Favourite!
Confession: I’m not the dog mom who brushes teeth daily. My daily life gets in the way of things like brushing Kiki and Zamba’s teeth. Enter Pets Are Kids Doggy Dental Spray, a product I now can’t live without.
Why I’m obsessed:
Zero brushing, zero drama. A few sprays in their mouth or water bowl and you’re done.
It fights bad breath, plaque, and tartar and yes it actually smells fresh.
It’s quick, clean, and doesn’t feel like a chore. I give each of them a spray on each side of their gums and we are done!
This one gets my top vote. It’s one of those “why didn’t I try this sooner?” products.
Final Thoughts: Are Pets Are Kids Products Worth Buying?
Yes, 100%. If you’re a busy dog mom like me, who wants healthy, happy dogs without a ton of effort, this combo is gold. The Mushroom Chews support overall wellness, and the Doggy Dental Spray makes dental care effortless.
Both these products have officially become part of our daily routine, and Kiki and Zamba are thriving.
We are offering all our followers a 20% discount using our code STYLISHPAWS so click here and check them out for yourself… your pups will thank you later 🙂
Don’t forget to follow @petsarekidstoo on Instagram and tag them and us in your photos!
You might be wondering what exactly bone broth is good for… or why it should feature in your pups diet… or how to make the perfect bone broth… So I’ll tell you…
Bone broth is natures liquid gold. It is packed with vitamins, minerals and joint-loving components that not only supports your pups digestion but it improves their skin and coat health and keeps your pup nourished from the inside.
What Is Bone Broth, Exactly?
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones (I use good quality beef marrow bones) in water over a long period of time (7 hours or more). The long, slow cooking process allows all the collagen, amino acids, gelatin, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients to be extracted from the bones into the broth.
Unlike regular broth or stock, bone broth is simmered for much longer, which results in a thicker, more gelatinous texture (once cooled), especially if it’s made properly. This is what gives it its powerful health-boosting properties for dogs.
For dogs, bone broth is like a natural multivitamin. It’s easy to digest, full of flavour, and incredibly good for their joints, gut, and overall well-being.
Why Bone Broth Should Be in Every Dog’s Diet
Bone broth is a nutritional powerhouse that delivers real, visible benefits:
Supports Joint Health: Rich in collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, bone broth helps keep joints cushioned and strong. It is especially important for senior dogs or large breeds. But EVERY dog will benefit from bone broth.
Improves Gut Health: The gelatin in bone broth helps repair and seal the gut lining, making it a gentle solution for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Boosts Immunity: Packed with amino acids like glycine and proline, bone broth supports your pups immune system.
Enhances Hydration: Dogs who aren’t big water drinkers often lap up bone broth, which helps prevent dehydration, especially in warmer months.
Adds Flavour & Nutrition: If you’ve got a picky eater, simply pour a little over their daily meal. I have yet to discover a pup that doesn’t love bone broth 😉
How to make the perfect bone broth
You’ll need:
1.5-2kg good quality beef marrow bones
2 tbs apple cider vinegar
Water
How to make your bone broth:
Start by placing all the bones into a very large pot. Pour over the apple cider vinegar and leave it for 20-30minutes (this breaks down the fat). Then pour in enough water to completely cover your bones. Bring it to the boil then simmer it nicely for 7 hours.
Strain your broth very carefully- making sure absolutely NO bones or bit get into the broth. (Dispose of the bones immediately and make 100% sure your dog CANNOT get to it!!) Then Set your strained bone broth aside and leave it to cool overnight. You will notice the fat completely separates from the now jelly like broth. Carefully remove the fat layer and what you’re left with is your glorious liquid gold as they call it… pure bone broth! You can store it in little jars in the fridge for up to 10 days (I don’t do longer) or you can freeze it in ice trays.
Well done for deciding to make your pup the most affordable, nutrient dense supplement out there- you wont regret it and you pup is going to love it too 🙂
Share your bone broth making and tag us at @stylish_paws ! We love seeing all the healthy pups out there enjoying their bone broth.
If your pups are anything like Kiki and Zamba, they love a good swim in the pool… but not so much a grooming session. That is, until Zugo came into our lives.
From the moment our grooming kit arrived, it was clear that Zugo isn’t just another pet brand. They’ve taken the fuss out of grooming and made it feel like a spa day for dogs and their humans.
Here’s how we turned grooming into bonding
The Zugo Nail Scissors Let’s be honest, clipping your dog’s nails can be terrifying. But Zugo’s nail scissors are sharp, safe, and surprisingly easy to use. The grip is comfy, the cut is clean, and Zamba didn’t even flinch. Because they are so sharp, I love using them on Basil the bunny’s nails and they work like a dream!
The Self cleaning De-Shedding Brush I call this the “fur fairy.” With every stroke, it gently lifts out that extra fluff without tugging or pulling. Every dog mom dreads shedding season but with the Zugo self cleaning de-shedding brush I have noticed a real difference in Zamba’s shedding. And the best part- it self cleans! You push the button and the fur comes off in one easy stroke.
The Zugo Toothbrush This toothbrush fits perfectly in my hand and makes brushing almost fun. With its double sided bristles it gets in all the hard to reach places making sure Kiki and Zamba’s teeth are plaque free!
The Grooming Brush Soft bristles. No pulling. Just pure, relaxation. Kiki doesn’t have much fur so she loves the soft bristles of this brush.
Scented Poop Bags If you’re going scoop the poop, you might as well make it a little glamorous. These scented bags from Zugo are strong, leak-proof, and honestly smell better than some human bathrooms.
Why We’re Zugo-Obsessed
Zugo understands pet parents. Every product feels thoughtful, functional, and just a little bit luxurious. Grooming is no longer a chore, it’s a routine we all look forward to.
If you’re ready to upgrade your grooming game, check out the full Zugo range. Your pup will thank you… and so will your furniture. 😉
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Zugo, but all opinions, kisses, and flying fur are 100% our own.
Don’t forget to follow Zugo on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest product updates!
Happy July everyone! We hope you’re either creating summer memories or loving cosy days indoors, whatever you’re up to we hope your July is a memorable one.
As a family who loves the outdoors with our two pups, Kiki and Zamba, finding dog gear that actually stands up to both adventure and everyday life is no small task. Enter: OneTigris. We recently enjoyed a Sunday adventure with the whole family and …. spoiler alert: we were blown away.
Between our sassy Boston Terrier, Kiki and our powerful Rottweiler boy, Zamba, we need gear that’s not only stylish but seriously durable. From harnesses and leashes to travel-friendly beds and toys, OneTigris made this family outing smoother, safer, and a lot more fun.
The Harnesses: Comfort + Control
Let’s talk harnesses first. As any Rottweiler mom will know, they can be a bit of a tank on walks, but Zamba’s OneTigris harness held up beautifully. The fit was secure but comfortable, and the front-clip design gave us more control during our walk without restricting his movement. Not to mention the side pockets to store treats, poop bags or your car keys if need be! You can also add fun embellishments to stick on the side- of course we opted for the Rottweiler.
The Matching Leashes & Collars: Style Meets Strength
Okay, we’ll admit it—we love a good matching set. The collars and leashes looked great on both pups, but more importantly, they are built to last. No fraying, no awkward grips, and no slipping buckles. Both Kiki and Zamba felt secure and stylish. Kiki wears her pink collar and matching leash with pride.
Plus, Gia LOVED helping walk them with the soft padded leash handles. It became a team effort!
The Adventure Bed: Nap Time, Anytime
This one might be our favourite: the OneTigris portable raised dog bed. It folds up easily, is super lightweight- even Gia can carry it when it is made up! And gave an elevated spot to relax between activities or when one of the pups needed a short break. No wet grass, no dirty bellies—just chill vibes under the trees.
The Toys: Fetch Game Strong
We brought along a couple of OneTigris’ adventure balls. If you follow us over on Instagram then you’ll know just how ball obsessed Zamba is so these balls were a total hit with him! Tough enough to survive Zamba’s intense chew sessions, and light enough for Kiki to carry around like a prize. And fun enough for Gia to play fetch with her two best friends.
Family-Approved Fun
What really stood out to us about OneTigris is how thoughtfully designed everything is. It’s not just dog gear—it’s family adventure gear. Every item added value to our outing, from the ease of packing to the peace of mind we had knowing our dogs were safe and comfortable.
Gia was able to join in every step of the adventure, holding leashes, throwing balls, and helping set up the dog bed. She loved being involved, and it turned into a full family bonding experience. We made memories that’ll last a lifetime—and took plenty of Instagram-worthy photos along the way.
Ready to Try It?
If you’re a dog-loving family who’s always on the move, we can’t recommend OneTigris enough. Their products are tough, stylish, and genuinely improve the adventure experience—for both humans and pups.
We have an awesome discount code for you: When shopping on Amazon here use “InfluencerUS” at checkout for some extra savings on your purchase. Because if there’s one thing we learned this weekend, it’s that when the dogs are happy, everyone’s happy.
Here’s to more muddy paws and memory filled adventures, with gear that keeps up with it all.
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