I live with two amazing dogs – Norman, a very handsome Jack Russell Terrier and Harry Kalas, an odd-looking, but undeniably cute Welsh Corgi/Queensland mix.

Norman & Harry Kalas

And I’m not sure why, but I like to think they have refined palates.  They are vegetarians and enjoy seaweed, raw almonds and edamame for snacks.  Don’t get me wrong… they also go bananas for the occasional piece of cheese (my husband eats dairy) and they live for veggie lunch meats and Gardein goodies.  On top of all of that, they eat vegetarian dry and wet foods – so they’re definitely fed.  The one thing that was lacking, however, was delicious & nutritious treats!  Enter Max & Ruffy’s Natural Organic Treats for Dogs.    I was drawn to the line, not only because of the treats themselves, but the mission behind them:

Mission – To be the preferred source of vegan, eco-friendly, non-outsourced, and nutritious dog treats that lend to the health and well-being of our clients’ companions.

Max & Ruffy’s treats come in wonderful, inventive flavors – using savory and sweet ingredients like, butternut squash, ginger and coconut oil and are available in 2 sizes,“original” size and “mini bites” which are perfect for small dogs or training treats.  So… why not do a taste test with my little guys and find their favorites?

I started with Mother Quinoa’s Pumpkin Patch. Harry Kalas could not get enough, Norman not so much (but he’s quite finicky).  The next day we tried Molasses Explosion 1919 – both dogs loved so much… that I had to try myself (why should the dogs have all of the fun?).  Seriously tasty!!!  In the following days, they went on to enjoy the Powerhouse Sweet Potato & Alfalfa and the Kelp Highway.  Neither pooch was too crazy about the Five-Star Blueberry, but I gave them a try – and you can really taste the ginger!  I saved the flavor I thought they’d enjoy the most for last… and man, was I right.  They went so nuts for the W.P. Pizza that I actually caught Harry with his head in the box.

Not only are they great for you own brood, but in this day of doggie birthday parties… How amazing would it be to give a gift basket of Max & Ruffy’s Dog Treats and cool toy or 2?!

I live with a lot of animals…

So… I guess you could call me an “animal person”.  And I’m just as particular about what they eat and wear (collars) as I am about what I eat and wear.  I’ve tried many different online and storefront “eco” pet retailers, but now I found my spot!  Olive: Green Goods for Modern Dogs is a wonderful resource to find goodies for furry friends.

I’ve been on a collar kick since we adopted our latest – Welsh Corgi/Queensland puppy, Harry Kalas, last week… I like match their little neck  accessories with their personalities.  And Norman, our Jack Russell, is on his 3rd collar because I just can’t seem to find the right match for him.  So, during my neckwear search, I happened upon Olive – and boy, am I glad I did!  They have a wonderfully edited collection of sustainably-crafted collars, treats, beds, blankets, toys, food & skincare… and plenty of cat goodies too.

For HK, I found a cool, mod Black & White bamboo collar and it’s perfectly suits the little spaz!

And for Norman, I opted for the chic “Pee Wee” stripe.  He’s personality is very measured and sweet… so, a linear design seemed right – and he looks just adorable in it!

I was also thrilled to find Sam’s Yams Sweet Potato Dog Chewz!  Our dogs are vegetarians… and finding chewies for them isn’t very easy.  I cracked these babies open yesterday and Norman & HK happily devoured!

My order arrived promptly and to sweeten the pot, Olive had included little samples of their homemade doggy cookies (also happily devoured by the boys) and a $10 OFF coupon for my next order!  From one retailer to another, I can tell you… Olive is doing it right!

And now… Naptime!