Thanks to @thecoopcollection for sending us one of the first sets from their collaboration with 
@on_cloud_canine! 
@thecoopcollection and @on_cloud_canine are both LA based companies who are designing and creating dog accessories.

We received the "Swiss Cross" Pattern bow tie and bandana.
The "Swiss Cross" pattern is stunning and great quality!!! I just love the black trim along the bandana. 
The bow tie is velcro and can be easily placed and adjusted to your pet's collar. The velcro also makes it super easy to take off and put on. This is our first velcro bow tie and YES, I am obsessed.

I can't wait to see the other patterns! @thecoopcollection X @on_cloud_canine products will be available soon.

Give them a follow to stay up to date:
Instagram Usernames:
@thecoopcollection
@on_cloud_canine

Shop their pet accessory lines:
www.thecoopcollection.com
on-cloud-canine.myshopify.com/
<3

I am thrilled that @girlplusbulldogs teamed up with @fetchthestyle.
@fetchthestyle is an online clothing store that makes cute clothes and accessories.
@fetchthestyle sent us a Dog Mom Beanie, They See Me Strollin' Shirt and Donut Bully My Breed Mug.
The "They See Me Strollin' They Hatin' Shirt" is my new fav tee. It just cracks me up. It's cute and funny. YES PLEASE.
The @fetchthestyle Dog Mom beanie is a must for all dog moms. The cool thing about this beanie: It is hypoallergenic.
AND then there is the AMAZING Donut Bully My Breed mug. This fun mug comes with a serious message, that breed specific legislation sucks. FYI, @fetchthestyle also has Donut Bully My Breed socks.
@fetchthestyle creates creative clothing, socks, mugs and pillows.
AND RIGHT NOW, @girlplusbulldogs is hosting a giveaway with @fetchthestyle. One winner will recieve a $50 Giftcard! 

Check out  @fetchthestyle here: www.fetchthestyle.com
Instagram Username: @fetchthestyle
<3

I am honestly so sad that I am coming back on my blog to write this story.
My previous blog was about a successful cherry eye surgery.... boy was I wrong.
I am sharing my story to spread awareness and to show support for those who have been through something similar.
On December 21st, Levi went in for cherry eye surgery. It was successful in the sense that his eyes no longer had cherry eye. So when Levi first got home, I celebrated. He's home and his eyes are fix! YAY!
The vet that performed the surgery told me that they had some trouble with intubation and that his wheezing is due to them irritating his throat. It made sense. 
When we got home at 5 pm that night, the wheezing seemed to be fading.

11:00 pm, Levi collapsed. 
Side Note: Honestly, this was the second worst event I ever witnessed. The first being my mom taking her last breath after loosing her battle with cancer, and then it's seeing Levi lifeless on the ground.
I immediately picked Levi up and saw within seconds his color on his lips and gums faded and his breathing was so light. I remember yelling, "He's dying."  And he was.
It was snowing that night, and Chris and I rushed out into the snow with Levi and got into our vehicle. I didn't know what to do. I ended up calling 911.
Luckily 911, led us to the closest vet open (25 mins away from home). THANK YOU COPS.
On the way to the vet, Levi's breathing continued to fade. I began giving him mouth to mouth and continued to do so until we arrived at the Emergency Pet Hospital. I was able to keep him breathing until we arrived.
We arrived at the vet at 11:18 pm and Levi was immediately taken in.
At 12:00 am, the vet informed us that they were able to get Levi stable. She also told me that his x-rays show that his trachea was pierced causing his trachea to collapse. This then caused him to most likely choke allowing fluid to fill his lungs. She informs me she believes it is due to malpractice. The most likely case being that the vet used the wrong size tube for intubation and pierced straight through his trachea.
She advised us to go home and if there are any emergencies, they would call.
At 5:00 am, we got a call:(
The vet told us that Levi is struggling to breath, and air has formed around his heart. She said there is a possibility he might suffer cardiac arrest. She said the best option is to sedate him again and get a tube in and try to help him breathe better. We told her to do that.
Luckily, an hour later we got a call saying it worked!  Levi is awake and the tube is now out.
12 hours later, Levi finally started showing signs of improvement. 
And on Christmas day, Levi was released. THANK YOU GOOD VETS.
​Overall, Levi was at the emergency hospital for 4 nights.
Since being home, he has to be separate from York and Ro. He can not chew on toys (and he is teething). He has to have medicine at 7 am, 7 pm and 11 pm. 
We have our checkup on January 8th and we are expecting only good news.

The vet that performed the cherry eye surgery has apologized many times, but his practice is refusing to pay for Levi's emergency vet bill. The vet practice office manager was the one to rudely deliver the news that "Levi had pneumonia when he came in and therefore nothing is our fault." First, Levi did not have pneumonia and second, if he did why would they perform surgery? 
​I have started a gofundme to help us with the emergency expenses. If you can donate, we greatly appreciate it. gofundme.com/levimedicalbills

With being on Instagram, I wanted to share my experience to raise awareness. I also wanted to share so our wonderful friends can send good vibes/prayers to little Levi. So many amazing people wrote me when I really needed it the most. I THANK YOU.
I also want to share the ugly side of social media. I got multiple messages and comments that made me feel sad. People commenting saying "it is not malpractice." People fighting people who believe its malpractice and those who don't. WHY FIGHT? I also got people writing me saying "I should research vets before I take my dogs anywhere." 
Side Note:  I did research. I have 3 bulldogs that are my children. There is only one vet known in the area for always dealing with bulldogs and sadly he will not take on any new clients. So I went with another known vet in the area. THANK YOU, NEXT.

What happened to Levi, should not have happened. I am beyond grateful that Levi fought so hard for his life, for cops, vets and great Instagram friends.
This experience has connected me with so many bulldog owners that have gone through something similar, and has showed me that even known vets can make a mistake. It showed me that many vets need more training on bulldogs. I believe we shouldn't have to go to a bulldog specialist. We should be able to go to a vet and get the care our dogs need. This experience reminded me to be sympathetic towards friends, Instagram friends and family.
The vet that performed the surgery on Levi has been reported to DOPL and we are now moving forward.  

Happy New Year to our beautiful friends, we love and appreciate you all.
Thank you for all the support during these last few weeks<3
gofundme.com/levismedicalbills

 If you are following us on Instagram, you would have seen that the last three days have been crazy.
Three days ago, Levi's (our 12 week old puppy) right eye showed cherry eye.
As a bulldog owner, I have heard of cherry eye and have seen it in several of the bulldog accounts I follow. But I never experienced it until three days ago.
"Cherry eye results from a defect in the retinaculum which is responsible for anchoring the gland to the periorbita. This defect causes the gland to prolapse and protrude from the eye as a red fleshy mass. Problems arise as sensitive tissue dries out and is subjected to external trauma. Exposure of the tissue often results in secondary inflammation, swelling, or infection."

I always thought cherry eye was a gradual thing, however it is not. One day it just decides to pop out. Levi's cherry eye in the right eye was so big. By the morning, it had doubled in size. I was absolutely freaked out.
Luckily, I got a vet appointment that morning. The vet noted that his cherry eye was already starting to be infected, and I was also aware that Levi was trying to paw at it. The vet believed surgery to remove the cherry eye would be best.
I was so worried. I did not want little Levi to have to go through surgery at 12 weeks, but I knew it was for the best.
After we left the vet, he continued to paw and scratch at his cherry eye. 
Ashortwhile after returning home, I noticed that both his eyes now have cherry eye.
I could not believe it. I immediately informed the vet of the change and they indicated that it would be no problem to fix them both at the same time.
Levi had his surgery this morning and all went well.
The only complication being breathing issues after his surgery.

Three hours later, I got to pick him up and bring him home.
​His eyes look like they did three days ago. There is some swelling, but no cherry eye and his breathing has improved.

Overall, I just wanted to share my experience with my friends.
I got a lot of messages saying " he doesn't need surgery, just push the cherry eye back in."
Its true. In some cases, you can massage a cherry eye back in.  Due to the size of Levi's cherry eyes, this was not an option for him. I also received lots of messages saying "use a warm compress and push cherry eye in." I have heard a lot of success stories using this method, but once again it did not work for Levi.
Levi was bothered by his cherry eyes (pawing at them) and they were blocking some of his vision. 
The vet believed surgery was needed,  I believed surgery was needed.
Every dog is different. 
Trust in your vet, trust your gut.
I am happy Levi's baby blue eyes are back to normal but I am more happy to see him healthy and happy.

Thank you to all those who sent prayers and positive vibes. I know it helped<3

@ibiyaya is a company that creates a line of strollers and carriers that are both fashionable and durable for your pet. @ibiyaya ultimate goal is to make traveling with pets easier!
We were lucky to receive @ibiyaya's  Hercules Heavy Duty Pet Stroller.
This heavy duty stroller supports up to 110 pounds. York and Ro fit perfectly inside with space to spare.
This stroller also has leash attachments traps inside to ensure your dog is securely in.
@ibiyaya stroller is fashionable, easy to push, and safe for your pup (s).
On the back of the stroller there is storage spaces to put all your essential items. I like to put water, poop bags, treats and my wallet in the back.
Both York and Ro felt so comfortable riding around in their @ibiyaya stroller that they both eventually laid down and fell asleep.

I highly recommend this stroller to anyone with a medium or large sized dog (s).
For smaller dogs, please do check their website for smaller strollers and their line of carriers.

Website: ibiyaya.com
​Instagram: @ibiyaya_pet
Amazon link to purchase Hercules Heavy Duty Pet Stroller: www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=me%3DA312WO8KWW6S0L&field-keywords=large+dog+stroller=field-asin=B07BHP3MXB

​<3

@vivamune X @girlplusbulldogs

@vivamune is a company that created a chew with the "revolutionary" OxC-Beta Complex.
OxC-Beta is formulated to support your dog's immune function.
The @vivamune chew:

• Supports healthy hip and joint function
• Supports healthy digestion
• Promotes healthy skin 
• Helps relieve allergies

It's really an all-in-one chew! & both York and Ro approved @vivamune flavor!
Us humans take vitamins, so why shouldn't our pups?
I highly recommend @vivamune!

Vivamune Instagram Username: @vivamune
Vivamune Website: www.vivamunehealth.com

Thanks @vivamune!
​<3

We were so honoured to be asked by @petplate to create clips for their rebranding!
BIG SHOUT OUT TO YORK for being my acting dog, and a shout out to me for using a tripod for the first time!LOL!

I am a huge fan of @petplate's new look, both on the website and on the products.
@petplate is a company that makes yummy and healthy food for your dog.
I am a HUGE fan of @petplate meals because I believe all dogs should eat GOOD food. Fresh veggies, fruits and certified meats are a must for pups!
I took a class on what goes into most dry dog food and I am shocked at what some companies will allow!
With @petplate I know what goes into their food!
Some more information about @petplate:
​@petplate has improved digestion, weight and coat in many dogs.
@petplate recipes are human grade, artificial free and made in the USA.
Their "freshly-cooked meals are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages."

Start your dog on @petplate today! Use our link for 50% off:
bit.ly/PLUSBULLDOGS50
Thank you @petplate for this opportunity!
<3

So excited to announce our second collaboration with @petplaysf!
If you missed our first collab, check it out here: https://www.girlplusbulldogs.com/blog/petplaysf-mutt-hatter-collection

For our second collaboration, @petplaysf sent us their : Collapsible Travel Bowl, Compact Training Pouch, Bulldog Tote Bag, International Classic Plush Toy Collection and White Camo Play Tunnel.

ALL THINGS HUMAN @petplaysf
I have been looking for a good travel bowl for awhile, and I have to say this is the best travel bowl I have ever had! It is so light weight, and folds FLAT. It also has a velcro strap that can be used to strap it to your belongings. AMAZING!
The Compact Training Pouch is a 4 in 1. It has "spacious interior that holds treats, has a magnetic, easy access front pocket poop bag dispenser, a discreet back zip pocket for money and cards, and a built-in squeaker to capture your dog’s attention." It's a lifesaver.
@petplaysf is also known for their dog breed tote bags. We were lucky enough to receive the Bulldog Tote. It is a perfect bag for running errands!

ALL THINGS DOGS @petplaysf
The International Classic Plush collection has a stuffed taco, soft pretzel with salt and sushi. Yummmmmyyy. All toys are not only adorable, but will provide your pup hours of fun.
AND FOR THE GRAND FINALE, THE PLAY TUNNEL.
This play tunnel comes with a carrier bag and has "Pop Up" Technology which allows the tunnel to be set up in seconds.
This tunnel is so much fun!  I can't wait to bring this to our local dog park so we can share the fun with our friends.

Thank you so much @petplaysf!
Find them on Instagram: @petplaysf.
Shop: www.petplay.com USE CODE GILRPLUSBULLDOGS15 for 15% OFF!
<3

@rogzwhq is a South African Company that manufactures and distributes pet toys and accessories world wide.
York and Ro were both born in South Africa, so I was more than thrilled to work with a South African company.
In South Africa, you can find @rogzwhq in every pet store. We have had their leashes and collars as well as their grin balls. Thus having the dogs test out new toys from their home countries fav pet company was so exciting!
We were fortunate to have received @rogzwhq Tumblerz, Yumz and RFO's.
First, YUMZ. This toy has "gum massing technology." AND has a treat cavity. Massaging and Delicious. Rating A+
Second, Tumblerz. This toy is a treat puzzle for your dog. Each Tumbler has 3 adjustable release rates for different levels of learning! So durable, and time consuming for the pup. Rating A+
Lastly, the RFO. This flying disk not only flies but also floats! I can't wait to try this toy out next summer. I can just picture York jumping so high to catch it in the air. OR York will be swimming after it. AMAZING.
Rating A+

@rogzwhq has high quality products for dogs and cats. And remember their products are distributed world wide, keep an eye out for their products in your local pet store!
Find Rogz on Instagram: @rogzwhq
Rogz Website: www.instagram.com/rogzwhq/

​<3 Thanks for Reading

10 years.
10 years since my mom passed away.
10 years and I remember November 9th, 2008 so vividly.
It is my strongest memory of her. It’s a horrible one, but her death was so life changing it is easy to understand why this memory is still so clear.

She was in a medically induced coma for the last few days of her life. 
See, I waited too long to say my goodbyes. I still had hope. Hope that she would wake up and beat cancer once and for all.
When I said my goodbyes, she was in a coma.
She couldn’t speak back, but she tried. She really really tried.

Two days after saying my goodbyes, she took her last breath.
I was in the computer room, on MySpace just passing time.
When suddenly, I had this strong urge to check up on my mom.
Her eyes rolled back, and I thought she was opening them. I thought she must be waking up!
But then I realized, she's not waking up ever again.
I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t breathe.
 
Cancer took the most precious person in my life. 
 
 
10 years later, and not one day has passed where I haven’t thought about her.
See, we were both born on the same day, November 29th.
Born years apart, but we shared the "twin thing," twin empathy.
We could basically read each other’s minds.
If I thought at school, “ I really want Subway.” I would get home and there would be Subway for me.
We could feel each other’s pain.
If I had headache, she had a headache.
I started feeling sick when she was battling cancer, so she stopped telling me how she was feeling so I wouldn’t feel it too.
When she passed away, I knew I had a spot in my heart that will be never be filled again. A piece of me gone forever.
I miss her every single day. I miss her New York accent, her laughs, her stories from working in the hospital, her hugs, her cooking. I miss our midnight ice cream runs, our dancing in the living room, our birthday traditions.
I miss how she made me feel. 
 
Mom, I love you. I miss you. And I thank you for being my mom and for everything you have done for me.
I love you.
Oh and #FUCKYOUCANCER.