Few days will be more important in my niece Jaci’s life than the day she received her diabetic alert dog, Nova. About one and a half years after being diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic, Jaci received her puppy from Tattle Tail Scent Dogs. The danger with insulin-dependent diabetes is dangerous swings in levels of blood sugar that can be life threatening. Since the changes in blood sugar can occur rapidly and without warning, a diabetic alert dog serves to alert when the diabetic’s blood sugar goes out of range. When I learned that Jaci would be receiving this special dog, I knew we needed to do something extra special to celebrate. I decided a Puppy Shower was in order!
I’ve had some experience coming up with cute ideas for bridal, baby and new home showers, so I put on my thinking cap to dream up some cute doggy-ish ideas. With the help of clever printer labels, I transformed bottles of blue drinks into “Toilet Water”.
No puppy shower would be complete without a hot dog bar with all the favorite fixin’s and other BBQ sides.
The family turned out with great, clever gifts. For leashes and other doggie paraphernalia that needs hung, we created a special hanger made from scrap wood and cute little puppy tail hooks we found at Ikea.
Jaci received ingredients and recipes for dog treats along with mini, dog-themed cookie cutters. She also got a machine that cooks dog treats (think waffle iron). It came with a variety of recipes for her to try. The younger cousins pitched in to make some homemade treats using an all-natural recipe. Our little Super Nova certainly approved!
Nova received dozens of new toys to satisfy her urge to chew and play. She wasted no time getting familiar with her new toys.
No shower is complete without a cake!
We were all so happy to be a part of Jaci’s special day and to officially meet Nova. We really wanted to make them both feel special.
Puppy Pampering mission accomplished!
As a member of the “Tattle Tail” Family This is the sweetest thing ever. Since diabetes is such a huge expense, adding another member to the family is very expensive once you add in toys, food (not just any food…It has to be a good quality food which is never cheap) accessories etc. This was an awesome idea for your family to throw for Jaci!.
Cutest dog shower ever! I just love your photos–it even looks like Nova is a trained model for your pictures. Jaci is lucky to have Nova and to have all of you to help and love her.
The toilet water idea is really cute and Nova is a fantastic name!
Jeff, love your blog (and your puppy, Nova)! I’ll be sure to follow along on your projects!
What a lovely idea. And what a cute puppy! Thanks for telling us about this!