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The Life-Saving Invention That Ironically Couldn’t Save Itself

Imagine inventing something that would one day save millions of lives, only for the official proof of your genius to literally go up in smoke. That’s exactly what happened with the fire hydrant - that humble, brightly colored hunk of metal that dogs adore (for a specific reason) and firefighters rely on.

Back in 1836, the U.S. Patent Office suffered a catastrophic fire that destroyed thousands of patents, including (allegedly) the one for the fire hydrant. Irony at its absolute finest. No one knows for sure who officially invented it, though credit often goes to Frederick Graff Sr., a Philadelphia engineer who designed an early version of the hydrant system in the early 1800s.

So basically, the very thing that could have helped put out the fire - was lost to the fire. If this isn’t proof that the universe has a weird sense of humor, what is?

These days, patents are digital, fire hydrants are everywhere, and no one is leaving world-changing inventions to chance (hopefully). But the lesson remains to try to backup your important stuff - we all have stuff, then buy stuff to house more stuff. You never know when disaster, be it a burning Patent Office or a rogue coffee spill, might strike.

And next time you walk past a fire hydrant, take a second to appreciate it. Not just as a dog’s favorite pit stop, but as one of history’s weirdest unsolved mysteries. 🚒 🔥

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Laugh it up, sport it, and understand your snacks

Listen to this: Enjoy these hilarious and smart dogs!
Ravishing: Grandma’s contribution
Logical conclusion: Snack on this

Funny tank: Get that snackle on (from thezenly.com shop)

Dreaming of summer?

Check out the clever way that JavaBurn managed to turn coffee into a fat-busting treat (only for humans).

What’s Wrong With Your Dog

Floppy Ears & Funky Smells: Why Spring is a Bacteria Party

Spring is here... and your dog might be shaking their head like they just heard the worst dad joke ever (not your joke, don't worry). If your pup is suddenly scratching at their ears, tilting their head, or sporting a new "funky" smell, you might be the proud owner of one soggy, infected ear (or two). This might play like a journal for me because my lil babe literally just went through this.

Spring is a moisture paradise, and while your dog might love rolling in fresh grass or splashing in puddles, all that extra humidity + floppy ears = bacteria’s dream home. It’s like a damp Airbnb for yeast and infections. If your pup has long, floppy ears (looking at you, Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds), it’s basically a tiny sauna in there.

Signs Your Dog’s Ears Are in Trouble

• The head tilt of doom – Cute, but suspicious.

• Constant ear scratching – Dogs don’t do casual ear rubs; if they’re at it nonstop, take a peek.

• That funky “old cheese” smell – If their ear smells like something that should’ve been thrown out weeks ago, it’s time to call the vet.

• Red, inflamed ear canals – The equivalent of a doggy sunburn, but inside their ear.

• Goopy discharge – We won’t describe this. Just… ew.

How to Keep Their Ears Spring-Fresh

• Dry those ears! After baths, rain walks, or a solid puddle-jumping session, gently dry inside the ears with a soft towel.

• Air them out. If your dog has long ears, try lifting them up (they’ll look ridiculous, but hey, it works).

• Use vet-approved ear cleaners. No DIY TikTok remedies, please. Trust your vet.

• Check for allergies. Pollen and springtime irritants can make ears itchy, leading to scratching and, you guessed it, infection.

Your dog’s ears are basically spring break destinations for bacteria, but a little care goes a long way. Keep them dry, keep them clean, and if things start smelling like a forgotten gym sock, book that vet appointment ASAP.

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

The Spring Fido catalog is here! Check out toys, clothes, and decorations to get you into the health/loving/lucky spirit. It’s fun just to browse through everything.

We hate inflation

With all of the financial experts warning people that everything is going to be more expensive in 2025, it’s time to lock in prices for insurance. At least one thing will save money. Maybe you can even afford eggs.

Protect your pet starting at $10 a month

Would you rather pay $2000 or $200 for your pet’s lifesaving surgery? Pet insurance can help prevent tough decisions by helping you pay for covered veterinary procedures.

With up to 90% reimbursement, both your furry pal and your wallet will thank you.

View Money’s Best Pet Insurance list to compare plans.

Compare plans

Chuckle  

The fib is B. Spring is the windiest season – The clash between warm and cold air causes increased wind speeds, making kites and allergies equally active.

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