Now that Elton John is home, what adventures would you like to see us go on? :) See what Ben's first week home was like: ua-cam.com/video/-dd6NDt00W0/v-deo.html
It would be adorable if you had a GoPro camera on him one day so we could see out in public, how much people see him and smile or coo at him... all from his vantagepoint.
Suggestion: for chewy dogs Kong/ Ruffer and Tuffer toy brands Tug of War games No ropes (they will swallow the string that breaks off) Soft toys with no stuffing but a crinkle bit inside Rubber squeek toys Rubber chew toys with nibs
Just know Molly that you need validation from NOONE. I'm much older than you, not blind and love stuffed animals and sleep with a plush that was made for me when my dog passed from Cancer. I could care less what anyone says/thinks. We need to stop looking for validation from strangers, family or friends. That's great that you and Peet have that in common but he is NOT your validation, YOU ARE. You tubers need to stop apologizing and explaining why they like something to make themselves feel better, it makes other people feel that if they don't know someone who likes what they do, then it's lame....NO...like what you like and let that be the end of it. People need to stop looking for validation from strangers or anyone.
Molly reaching out to let you know to please get boots for Elton John the mushers secret is great when their paw pads get rough or dried out but they will not fully protect his paws against hot pavement
I appreciate you saying that you don't immediately fall in love with your new service dog. So many stories are "I brought so-and-so home and immediately fell in love with them" or "I saw so-and-so and knew it was meant to be." Then if you don't feel that connection immediately you feel bad. Or at least that's been my experience. I'm still building that connection with my new companion and it's been almost a year. Best wishes to you both! I'll be following your journey.
I understand this sentiment for sure. I love and trust my SD with my life. I couldn't get around without him. It will be a HUGE deal when he retires and I have to learn to trust and rely on a new partner.
@@sarahguck-gerulski5868 I feel like we could see that feeling a little as he pulled away and her balance shifted. But he's young and new. But your gut also reacts. "You aren't reliable yet. "
I'm a 27-year-old woman and I've also needed to have stuffed animals with me my entire life, cannot sleep without them. As someone who has also had a lot of anxiety and bouts of depression, listening to you has made me realize part of it is probably due to the comfort and sensory stimulation they provide. Never be ashamed to put your hard-earned money into what helps you live your life!
Same! This made me feel so validated being attached to stuffed animals at 26. And with my anxiety and depression, they're like a physical anchor if that makes sense.
Yes! I wish we can normalize adults(including men) having soft toys. They can bring so much comfort and we can all use it since most people feel anxious, lonely.
I haven't needed one for a long time, but I just had to put my dog of 12 years down a few weeks ago. I have to say I was so happy that my dad kept a bunch of my old stuffed animals from when I was a kid because it's helped so much to have my old build a bear dog to hold onto at night. It's almost the same size as my old dog (she was small, about 11 pounds) and makes it a little easier to sleep. I definitely agree that everyone should feel allowed to have stuffed animals if they need it! There's nothing harmful in it to you or other people, so why should they get to judge if it helps you.
Molly I am on the autism spectrum and I want to thank you so much for everything that you do to help expose disabilities to the world and help people who are suffering from anything from being blind to being autistic to have someone who understands our struggles. So thank you.
Get him boots..believe me as a groomer he needs boots on hot pavement. Also get into a routine of brushing daily. And if you have to skip make sure you do his pantaloons, chest, ears as a quickie. Also see if a groomer can bulk thin his heavy areas of he is too hot
As a lover of super fluffy dogs, I'm always a little envious of anyone who has one. My Shepherd has a thick coat but he doesn't have long hair. Neither does the rat terrier service puppy I'm raising... love those dogs that need a ton of grooming.
The way he tilts his head back to look at you when you talk to him, his face is filled with such love for you 🥰🥰. I also love how he lays with his legs splayed out like a little frog when you were out at the restaurant. Such a cutie 🥰
Hey Molly, highly suggest boots or the adhesive paw protectors over musher’s secret. It gave my pup awful blisters, the hot pavement + oil-based musher’s secret basically fried his little paw pads.
That's a valid point and concern. It also depends on the dog though, and under what conditions he'll work in as well as the thickness of his paws. Youch, I'm sorry that happened to your baby. Boots are great--I use them all the time with my own guide dog--if the dog likes them. Just be sure the boots are breathable. Generally though, it's not recommended to work a dog for long periods of time over 85 degrees.
YES!!!! As a disabled person I’ve spent my life trying to keep up, and act “normal”, but like…. I’m now at the point of “I’m gonna do what I need and want to do to make my life easier, and if you don’t like it, either pay my bills for you to have a valid opinion, or leave, because I don’t care” 🤷🏼♀️
I love it when Elton was greeting Moe and he would stop for a second being so goofy and just look at Molly as if he was making sure everything was okay. You can tell he cares so much for you already in the way he looks out for you and has so much love towards you in his actions Molly ♥
I am an adult with no disabilities, but even I still love swing chairs and fidget toys. Rocking chairs and hammocks are great too. Everyone should do what makes them the most comfortable.
I agree w/Brandi’s comment about boots. Mushers is great for conditioning the pads but does nothing 4 protection from hot pavement. I now live in sunny Florida (born & raised in the S F valley) & boots are a must! Many blessings 2 u, EJ & ur great Mom! (her filming is fantastic!). PEACE y’all! 🐾
My pupper, Sandy Sue, is a chew FIEND and her favorite toy is her Kong Extreme! It’s held up fairly well over the last 2 years. Enjoy figuring out Elton John’s favorites! ☺️💜🐶
I get the super chewer subscription box for my heavy chewers. Benebones are also a hit with my dogs. If you don't want to give him things to shred, stick to nylon and rubber for toys, and I also reccomend edible chews like bones, beef trachea, bully sticks, fish skins, ect. Variety is your best friend for keeping them happy
Seconding this one. I have a heavy chewer too, like can-eat-a-black-kong-toy heavy, and the bark box super chewer toys are the absolute best! He's destroyed a few of them, but it took way longer than most toys, and the majority are still in good enough shape for him to continue using. Those, and beef femurs are his faves.
YES YES YES! My dogs love bullysticks. Oh man, do some of 'em smell, but they love 'em! Another great heavy rubber toy is a goughnut. If your dog destroys it, they'll replace it for free. I've had a goughnut for over a decade and it's survived four dogs so far.
@@khanhhm5762 super chewer has the same policy. If your dog destroys one of their toys, they send a replacement for free. They also customize boxes based on your dogs preferences and what works best for them
A good think to remember for chewy dogs is that their jaws are strong but their teeth aren't. To tell if something is going to be too hard bang it on you knee and if it hurts its too hard. Other is if you can't indent it with your finger it's too hard. Broken teeth hurt! Gotta protect them!
I'm sure tons of people have already recommended them to you, but Kong toys are ideal for dogs that chew a lot. I had a Pitbull/Beagle mix who would obliterate any stuffed or fabric toy, no matter how 'durable' they were advertised to be. The Kong toys were the only ones to survive. She especially liked the bone shaped one, the ball and the tug-of-war ring. We never really used the insertable treat feature that the toys come with, she just loved chewing on them regardless. So glad you and Elton are settling in nicely. I hope you continue to find your comfy spaces and have a long and prosperous life together.
I'm 34 and sleep with stuffies It helps my anxiety. I feel a lot of presser in my chest and sleeping with something agents my chest has been so helpful.
I’m the same way! I’ve recently started sleeping with a square “magic bag” (like a microwaveable warm bean bag) on my chest. Weighted blankets are too much for me, but I feel better with the weight on my chest
@@alexshaw8167 I like weighted blankets, but the typical advice for how to get used to sleeping under one (lay it over just your feet first) is completely wrong for me. I feel trapped if my feet are disproportionately weighed down, and prefer to have weight on my torso and _upper_ legs.
i worked in a pet supply store for 6 years and have a big chewer of my own. elk antlers are the BEST for big chewers. they're a little pricey, but last weeks if not months (compared to bully sticks which only lasted my dog half an hour or so). it's great mental stimulation for the dog to try to get the marrow out of it and they don't break to create sharp splinters like bones do. of course, make sure to get an antler appropriately sized for elton john (so not one too small that he can break into a choking hazard easily). any chew toy requires supervision since there's always a risk of the dog breaking off a piece and trying to swallow it not matter what it's made out of. there's also a chew made out of yak's milk that when it gets down to a small size, it can be put into the microwave with water to puff up into a soft treat so none of it is wasted the way small pieces of bully stick might be. also! if he's interested in soft toys, kong makes a soft toy with a rope skeleton and much less stuffing that holds up pretty well to big chewers and rough players. there's also toys made out of firehose material that's super durable. a classic kong extreme is their hardest/densest rubber and can be filled with peanut butter and kibble mixture and frozen (to extend the time it takes for the dog to get everything out). edited to add! i wouldn't recommend mushers as a replacement for booties on hot pavement. it's essentially chapstick for your dog's paws and originally made for sled dogs who get cracked paw pads from being on ice and snow. it's not going to provide any protection from the heat, but might help soothe any damage caused by the heat once on a cool surface. in my experience, the best way to apply it is to just massage it into the dog's foot for like 20 minutes per foot (if you can get him to stay still that long). they'll pretty much immediately lick it off before it has a chance to do anything for them otherwise.
OMG, I'm 29 and share my bed with so many stuffed animals it's amazing there is room for me. I love jellycat cause they are so soft, but also, their mini octopus is the perfect size to carry in a handbag or pocket and works great as a sensory fidget for me. The tentacles go through my fingers and kinda grip onto my hand and it's so soothing to play with. I'd never really put the needing soft toys down to having a disability but having you explain it make it make so much sense to me. Thank you so much!
I have mobility issues due to MS, and I have a long Flexi-lead to take my pet running in the park. Urban dweller with no yard here, and I can’t keep up with her when she runs, so I put her on the lead and let her run around and around and around as I am either standing still or sitting. She loves it and keeps her safe.
I have a Doberman puppy that is 8months old and 80lbs. I learned a huge lesson he chews any soft toys anything with string or cloth. He had a blockage in his intestine that was 4 1/2 inches long and as round as golf ball. He’s finally healed and healthy
I cannot say how nice it is to hear how supportive your mom is of all your interests and how you two just make each other laugh. Support is so important. I'll put in my two cents about chew bones - they are so easy to get stuck in the jaw so it's important to get ones that have holes to breathe through in emergencies and always watch your dog during play time with them ❤
I love that you still love stuffed toys xx I have so many, on a recent 2weeks stay in hospital I had my yellow ducky with me and the nurses just validated me and they even when changing my bed gave him the top blanket tucked him in every day xx brightend my day so much xx stuffiness are just a comfort 100% xxxx
Elton John seems to be adjusting well! regarding your awesome new swing- growing up we had a swinging/rocking bench, a swing set with an adult-sized 2-seater swing, my dad would only sit in a lazy boy that rocked, and my mom often sat in a rocking chair while the kids were delegated to the boring couch. Things that just make sense for blind people!
Toys for chewers: Kong Tire, Kong Ball, Kong Cone; you can put whip cream, peanut butter, and freeze or other treats. I would also suggest solid rubber mix type balls that are hard for a human to squeeze by hand, but somewhat squish when stepped on. My Doberman has an Orange one that he got as a gift. Petco also sells a huge tire with rope on two ends. My dog loves it!! When he decides it is time to destroy it, he likes to hold it with both paws and bite it apart.
Hey Molly. With dogs that like to chew great toys for them are the hard chew toys where you can put food in them. Its great for chewing, to keep them busy while you're out without them, and also stimulates their mind as they have to put effort in to get the food.
Jellycats are among my favorite stuffed animals! They have an adorable design and the materials are just so soft! They are mostly sold as a baby/child’s toy hence I think why they are so soft. I love their designs so cute!😄😊
I’ve never thought about sleeping with a stuffy. Honestly I’m going to try it because I have bad anxiety. Thanks for helping me now and over the last decade ❤️ #killerbeeforlife
Mom of a big chewer here 🙋🏼♀️ I’d recommend Kong toys, but especially any of the black Kong toys. My bulldog has yet to destroy any of them. Good luck! 😊
Definitely never leave a dog unsupervised with a toy. We learned our lesson with our Chocolate lab. We got him a beef scented Nylabone. He ate it and had to have surgery to remove it. 😱
not blind or disabled, but i have sensory issues and soft stuffed animals are heaven for my fingers. it feels good to know im not alone in my love for stuffies lol my irish wolfhound is also a chewer. she is obsessed with puffed beef cheeks and lasts her quite a while. raw meaty bones work as well and can help clean the dog's teeth. you'd just have to deal with touching it and making sure it goes back in the freezer when he's done chewing
My current lab is a chewer (our old one was not at all, even as a puppy) and he loves the tough rubber texture toys like the heavy chewer Kong toys. For consumable options, we have had the most success with bully sticks and yak milk sticks (when they get it worn down to a small piece, you can microwave it for a minute and it turns it into a cheesy poof treat).
My service dog LOVES elk antlers. They don’t splinter and have trace minerals in them that the dog gets as they chew on them. The antlers soften as they chew on them but they last forever. There are different sizes and you can get a split or whole antler. Of course you’ll need to get a big one for Elton John, but I like it because it’s very long lasting, good for their teeth, safe and all natural. And it must smell or taste really good because my dog will sniff it out and pick it out of her toy basket!
Hi Molly, I have a Bernese mountain dog at home that is a chewy dog and a little trick that I do with her is that a first buy a real bone and once she ate all of the bone marrow inside the bone (which took a few days) I filled it back up with caned food that I’ll put in the freezer before giving it to her. Like that I can reuse the bone since they can be pretty expensive and I’ll give it to her when it’s hot outside to help cool her down
Molly, from a owner of a Lab who is a Strong chewer I don’t recommend giving Elton nylabones because the plastic gets really sharp and can not only cut upen their gums, if he eats the plastic it could cause a blockage in his intestines or worse plus let me tell you when my dog was a puppy and tried these before I knew any better the plastic left shards everywhere and let me just tell your it was PAINFUL to step on because they are clear so they are hard for a sighted person to see let alone someone who is blind it’s like stepping on a Lego; So I highly recommend Himalayan elk chews they don’t make a mess and can be microwaved once they get down to a tiny piece and they turn into like a doggie cheeto so they are zero waste (I would feed the puff outside though once it’s microwaved because it can leave a few crumbs I also recommend single ingredient chews like bully sticks, beef gullet, pig ears, etc and the last thing I can’t recommend enough that is the best chew for super chewers is a elk antler they are long lasting and don’t leave a mess
Mushers secret is amazing for pad condition I use it on my agility dogs every summer. If you are suffering with Elton-Johns pads being a bit soft there is also a product called Tuff-Foot that friends have used and are impressed with. Boots might end up being the go to in the heat though.
Mushers is amazing highly recommend it for the doggos. I sometimes use it also with boots if I go to Palm Springs during the summer when it's really hot.
My dog is a MAJOR chewer. She can chew through and destroy the toughest of tough toys in just minutes. One of the only things I have found she can satisfy her need to chew and not destroy are playology rubber toys. They are flavored like the Nyla bones but are rubber so they don’t get really rough. Plus my girl likes toys that squeak but obviously destroys most of them quickly but playology toys squeak too! You can get them off Amazon!
MOLLY- AURIC IS BY SAMANTHA RAVANDHAL (Canadian beauty influencer in BC). You guys would so get along!! Also auric is such a good line! we love Sam! Yay Canadian beauty queens. Sending love to you and Elton John!!
You talking about the soft toys, I always find it really weird that its seen as weird. Everyone I went to Uni with had them in dorms all the way through to end of Uni and yet we all sort of hid them to start with because it was perceived as 'childish'. However, in some other cultures its so so normal to even have them through out your house all the way through your life, and I love that.
I definitely recommend getting him an antler! They are great for their teeth and gums- his gums may bleed a bit at first but his gums toughen up over the use of the antler. Stay away from other types of bones (like rib bones) since they can shatter and Elton John may ingest the shards and we don’t want that! As for other toys Kong makes pretty good toys for chewers- their toys are color coded. Red is regular and black is for tough chewers. Both should work for Elton John (I have a 150lb german shepherd and great dane mix who has separation anxiety so she was a huge chewer in her puppy years). The last thing I recommend is the fire hose toy (specifically the Outward Hound brand) things made with firehose material is great!
The indestructible pineapple on Amazon has been good for my tough chewer (SDiT). One of the few that have lasted over a year. Thank you for the noxgear light hound from a previous video recommendation, I love it for evening runs on the property. So bright from a distance.
My nephews got me a squishmallow as a get well present after my amputation and I have loved having it. That and fuzzy blankets were my go to comfort items during my recovery.
I'd recommend west paw dog toys. I know a pit bull that absolutely loves the balls they sell and my dog is also a fan. I have a big 85 lb lab and he prefers softer toys, but he is a destructor so it's a good in between. I also got him a rubber pride bone from target and it's become his favorite toy
That Flexi leash is THE BEST!!! It never tangles, maintains the coil pressure without pulling on the dog, so even if he's all the way out the leash doesn't drag, and it zips right back in even if he runs back. ALSO, because the ribbon is coiled UNDER the handle instead of in front, it's so much more comfortably balanced in weight to hold. Because I live in an apartment, I have one for my Frenchie and take him out to the yard and just let him do zoomies all over the place!! Also it's pretty comfortable to use as a normal leash, so you can lock it at 5ft, put it in your off hand, and hold the ribbon in your other to control like a normal lead. I've had mine for years and am totally going to buy again IF I ever need to. Highly recommend!!! Also for anyone practicing keeping your dog in range, for say trails, hiking etc, I've taught my dog distance commands and hand signals for if I'm turning a corner or going another direction, and he's learned how to stay in range of me without ever getting to the end of the lead. I'm confident that if I ever took him off leash he'd still stay in range, I won't though, because you just never know, so the long Flexi is great for that type of training, as well as just giving the dog the feeling of freedom when you don't have a fenced in yard to let them experience that feeling.
My malamute is a super chewer and I recommend a half/split deer or elk antler. We also had a Buffalo horn, which worked, but it had a smell that didn’t go away. I don’t recommend any sort of real bone or bully stick for super chewers, they break them down way too quickly and can swallow the small pieces. Nylabone is a good alternative, but keep an eye on those too, my dog has chewed tiny chunks off of those, so we have to switch them out after a while.
for dogs that love to chew try Himalayan cheese chews or antlers! my chewer loves both! Plus when the Himalayan cheese gets too small for them to safely chew you can put it in the microwave and it puffs up like a little treat!
I am 29 and also love stuffed animals and always sleep with one. I'm not blind, but I am neurodiverse, so big fan of poppers for fidget toys and just soft things, love the comfort of something soft, so I have a collection of blankets and stuffies
My dog is a chewer! He destroys everything but for some reason he does not destroy the spiky balls. He has several in different sizes and color. The Kong ones are great specially if you can put treats or peanut butter in them. I also buy him a bone from Petsmart that has peanut butter mix inside. He spends hours with it leaking the inside but does not destroy it.❤
You should try bark Box for super chewers, It's a monthly Box you'll get and they're themed and they have 2 bags of treats 2 toys and 2 chewsticks and it's fantastic. You can also decide what kind of toys you want so if they like more nylon toys or other types you can customize to size of toys or allergies and more. And all the toys are unique so you don't get the same toy twice and you can't find them in stores either. Hopefully this helps
Nylabone has an almost plastic ring that we give our heeler who's a MAJOR chewer. She'll usually break toys in a few minutes, but the nylabone ring has lasted for months. It's brown and usually is flavored
Best dog toy I have found for tough chewers who don’t love super hard plastic toys is a harder ball with spikes covered in a fabric design, we have a raccoon
finaly home where you both need to be to build the best bond possible love the content. my friend is on a waiting list for mera (sorry if its spelt wrong) friend says thank you for giving him more opportunities xx
Molly I hope you get lots of crazy glasses/sunglasses to match your fluffy boy. I imagine lots of fun photo shoots with him :) So happy for you that things seem to be calming down and working out. What great news about Ben!
Kong has extreme chewer toys, they are the black in colour, the red are regular chewer.(colour description may help in finding them.) They don't seem to come apart like the bone you showed.
100% agree on the nylabones for him all 6 of our dogs have at least 2 each, grab a slicker brush if you don’t already have, one the furminator won’t break down a matt but in my 14 years as a groomer a slicker brush has been my saving grace and will help untangle even the most stubborn coats. Thanks for sharing Molly. ❤ Michelle from the Sunshine Coast Australia
I love Himalayan cheese chews. My dog is a big chewer and she loves them and they last a while if you let them dry out a little before giving them. Once they get to small you soak them in water and put them in the microwave for the 2 minutes and they become a cheese puff for them! We have a reoccurring purchase through Amazon.
This is so surreal. I’m so glad I follow your channel because I had no idea how exhausting an adjustment this is. Thank you for speaking about your experience and showing the process. Elton John is amazing, I’m so glad he’s settling in at home. ❤
Molly the Auric make up is UA-camr Samantha Ravendahl’s brand, I’ve seen great reviews on it! Can you please add a link for your stuffed animals? My daughter would love them! xx
Molly what you said at 15:35 really hit me today. It was exactly what I needed to hear. I've been dealing with a new change in my disability (getting worse) and have really been struggling lately. I really needed to hear that because I always feel guilty when I go to what people would consider childish things but if it helps me why should I feel guilty?
Sorry to hear that you are struggling. You are right that if something helps you to feel better there should be no guilt involved. Sending you positive vibes!
I am a 47 yr old woman with no extra challenges in life and I would be lost without my stuffed animals and cuddling them at night. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel guilty about being yourself. Positive vibes your way.
My boy is a chewer and absolutely loves dried beef tracheas. I know it sounds gross, but they are great for joints, as they are packed with collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin. They are also great for their teeth!
Also Molly check out the snowball fidget ball. It has like corn starch inside and when you squeeze it, it feels (and looks) and sounds like snow crunching under your feet and it’s ADDICTING
I still find comfort and joy from stuffed animals and some toys. I don't see any reason an adult can't enjoy those things anymore. Its healing for my inner child and soothing for my anxiety. It brings me simple happiness. I once looked it up and more adults use stuffed animals than you'd think... especially during stressful times, traveling away from home, and to sleep.
I’d love to see a video of your favorite dog items! I feel like you have a lot of experience with different personalities :) toys, treats, outfits, everything!
I have two German shepherd chewers, and I mean BIG chewers. Their fave hard toy is a T shape, so they play with it upside down and they rest their paws on the top of the T so the stick is straight up and they don't have to fidget constantly to keep it in place while they chew!
Aww Molly, I love the way Elton John looks at you- he is head over heels for his Mama and whilst it has understandably taken you some time to bond - Elton John just loved you from that first day! It’s beautiful to see - you are his world! He seriously looks the proudest dog when he is guiding you! I have a chewer and I have to say keep your stuffed animals out of his reach- or they will get chewed noses, ears and tails! My daughter is autistic and loves stuffed animals of the canine variety and she shed many a tear when our dog got a hold of her favourites. At one point I purchased a bag of replacement noses- as I had to repair her beloved stuffed animals so often! My chewer is definitely triggered by anxiety, he is a Daddy and Mamas boy and if we are out then he needs chew toys or he will find something to chew (usually our bedding or pillows anything that smells like us) - he will carry my husbands croc around and sleep with his nose inside my husbands croc. My husband wears crocs instead of slippers as our chewer went through so many pairs of his slippers! My chewer loves an antler to chew - deer antler sheds naturally and they are great for keeping puppy chewers busy. I would also suggest lick mats - with peanut butter or another treat paste - licking stimulates oxytocin and calms them - which is also why they chew if they are anxious www.amazon.co.uk/LickiMat-Boredom-Anxiety-Reducer-Alternative/dp/B089DPJPRM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3QX2T7BAMADRX&keywords=lick+mats+for+dogs&qid=1664916421&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjA0IiwicXNhIjoiNS41OSIsInFzcCI6IjUuNTAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=Lick+ma%2Caps%2C631&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyWTg3RjRXWE5DVFhQJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjQ5MjQwMVJSVTdFV0taWERWTCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTI3NDkwMTg4TTFFSjkyTVhOTyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
Are you able to see the outline, or shadow, of your guide dog? Would be interested in an update on your vision (I know others commented last time I asked that there's other videos, but would be interested in a new update.)
I recently have gotten into stuffed animals and I’m 30. I have adhd and I love the texture and feeling of them. Squishimellos have been life changing for me, and I have a weighted dinosaur that’s adorable and awesome.
Collab with Pete when? Haha. I need that in my life! I love plushies too (26 years old). Nothing wrong with that, never stopped sleeping with them either. It's comfort. I have this big fluffy dog from ikea. I freaking love to hug that plush when I am in bed, it's so comfy and comforting.
Kongs are great for chewers. Especially if you can occasionally stuff it with some peanut butter, maybe even refrigerate or freezing it overnight. Just make sure you buy the right one for your dog's size, because they are different strengths. Even the toughest chew for small dogs is not the same as the toughest chew for a big dog like Elton John. I would type in Black Kong for 80lb dog. The Black Kong is their strongest material, typically.
Deer antlers have been something that my super chewy pups have loved! As long as you can find resources that offer antlers that were found/shedded and not pulled from a live animal all the better! They last a while and super tough aka they last at least a few months! Our bully breed really enjoys them. I haven’t heard anything bad about them, and know there’s also elk and moose too that some offer but haven’t really tried those out Again: we always get from resources we trust and know that the antlers were harvested humanely and were shedded antlers! Gotta keep all animals safe ❤
I am so happy you two are settling in together well. I know it must be very difficult with the quick transition between dogs. Best wishes to you and your new fluffball!
A brightly coloured flex-leash is also useful for the dog, to prevent them from getting tangled up around things because they don’t realise the leash is there. My sister-in-law’s parents have a dog who was constantly getting her leash tangled around things until they switched from a dark grey leash to a bright pink one. And you’ve probably already done this, but all the soft toys that Elton John would have just destroyed if he got his paws (and jaws) on them are definitely best sent to Montreal for Benelux to enjoy.
I am autistic & have anxiety disorders and I just love your videos, I love what you do for the disabled community, I love feeling seen. I can relate to many of your struggles and joys, I feel so validated that you use sensory toys! You have inspired me also to look into getting myself a service dog (Mira only does autism device dogs for kids, as if you stop being autistic when you turn ten?) and I would love to see your tips or advice for the process of getting a dog, things to buy, things to do to prepare as my service dog would be my first ever dog! Thank you, Molly.
Mira very specifically provides autism service dogs to autistic youth up to age 15 who live in Quebec or The Martimes. The program isn't currently accepting applicants because the volume of requests they've received is so high. I suspect their age cut off doesn't reflect a belief that autism disappears at age 15, much like their geographic requirements surely don't reflect a belief that all autistic youth in Canada live in Quebec & the Maritime provinces. It's Mira's youngest program and when you have limited resources you can often best use them by choosing a particular target group to focus on & specialize for.
@@eleanoreliz im sure that’s true! It is, however, very difficult to find organizations anywhere that provide autism service dogs for adults - I’ve found one or two out of the dozens I’ve searched for - and I think we have a societal problem of ignoring autistic adults
Auric is Samantha Ravendals makeup line. The eyeshadow has 2 textures in the pot. The flip top is pressed powder, and if you unscrew the top, there's a cream base that matches the powder. I have a heavy chewer!! Don't waste your money on those stuffed toys marketed for heavy chewers. Your dog will demolish them in a day. We like heavy rope toys, large antlers ( those are pricey though ), and "stuff less" plushies. At bedtime we alternate between Merrick Fresh Kisses bones ( natural with coconut oil and botanicals) and Old Mother Hubbard P-nuttier bones.
Hey Molly! My pet is an Australian Cattle Dog (the ultimate chewer) and he LOVES to chew naturally shed elk antlers. They do not splinter and also help to clean teeth. Hope this helps!
Congratulations on your forever home, Elton John! :) Wishing y'all the best with bonding and solidifying as a team edit: my favorite tough toys for my excited chewing pup come from the superchewer bark box. we have toys from a year ago still that he hasn't destroyed (easily a record!) Be careful with soft/squishy nylabones, they can be eaten and cause issues (unfortunately, an issue we had with our corgi).
agreed. I have a Scottie terrier and she completely tore apart that same kind of Nylabone and ATE the pieces before I realized what she was doing. She spent the rest of the day throwing up chunks of it. Luckily, no more issues after that day, but it easily could've been worse. I've been careful what kind of chews I give her ever since.
@@BlackCatBritt I'm so glad she threw up the pieces! Theodore was determined not to, and ended up needing surgery 😱 he's fine now, recovered slowly, and ideally will never eat another squishy toy
My German Shepherd weighs a little over 100 lbs and at 7.5 he still loves toys and chewing. His favorites are his Kong bone which he’s had for about five years and it’s still intact, and he also loves elk antlers which are pricey but he loves them. Just make sure you get an extra large piece of elk antler since Elton is a big boy and loves to chew.
Activity toys and treats are great. You can keep them in the freezer and feed them to Elton John in the kitchen or on the patio. There's lot of great ones out there. Sometimes you can make your own from scratch.
fellow SD handler who had to pull my SD for almost a year because he lost the drive to work. It's been so hard, but comforting to journey with you through this.
Hey Molly! Love the video as always. My dog is also a chewer and he loves Benebones! They are similar to Nylabones, and awesome for chewers as they’re big and last quite a long time. Chewy has a variety pack of 4 that I bought for my boy for a great price. Thanks for always sharing your life with us!
Now that Elton John is home, what adventures would you like to see us go on? :)
See what Ben's first week home was like: ua-cam.com/video/-dd6NDt00W0/v-deo.html
Circus and fairs dog parks and Zoo’s and fashion shows ❤
It would be adorable if you had a GoPro camera on him one day so we could see out in public, how much people see him and smile or coo at him... all from his vantagepoint.
Suggestion: for chewy dogs
Kong/
Ruffer and Tuffer toy brands
Tug of War games
No ropes (they will swallow the string that breaks off)
Soft toys with no stuffing but a crinkle bit inside
Rubber squeek toys
Rubber chew toys with nibs
Just know Molly that you need validation from NOONE. I'm much older than you, not blind and love stuffed animals and sleep with a plush that was made for me when my dog passed from Cancer. I could care less what anyone says/thinks. We need to stop looking for validation from strangers, family or friends. That's great that you and Peet have that in common but he is NOT your validation, YOU ARE. You tubers need to stop apologizing and explaining why they like something to make themselves feel better, it makes other people feel that if they don't know someone who likes what they do, then it's lame....NO...like what you like and let that be the end of it. People need to stop looking for validation from strangers or anyone.
Molly reaching out to let you know to please get boots for Elton John the mushers secret is great when their paw pads get rough or dried out but they will not fully protect his paws against hot pavement
I appreciate you saying that you don't immediately fall in love with your new service dog. So many stories are "I brought so-and-so home and immediately fell in love with them" or "I saw so-and-so and knew it was meant to be." Then if you don't feel that connection immediately you feel bad. Or at least that's been my experience. I'm still building that connection with my new companion and it's been almost a year. Best wishes to you both! I'll be following your journey.
You both just need to get to know each other. That is fine. No one should feel guilty about this. 🥰
I understand this sentiment for sure. I love and trust my SD with my life. I couldn't get around without him. It will be a HUGE deal when he retires and I have to learn to trust and rely on a new partner.
@@sarahguck-gerulski5868 I feel like we could see that feeling a little as he pulled away and her balance shifted. But he's young and new. But your gut also reacts. "You aren't reliable yet. "
It’s normal to need to get to know someone before you truly learn to love them, and I don’t see why a dog should be different in that regard.
Also true with your human children. It's okay to need time and I am glad that is beung talked about and normalized.
I desperately needed to hear some good news today and learning that Ben is back with his puppy raisers just made my day.
I'm a 27-year-old woman and I've also needed to have stuffed animals with me my entire life, cannot sleep without them. As someone who has also had a lot of anxiety and bouts of depression, listening to you has made me realize part of it is probably due to the comfort and sensory stimulation they provide. Never be ashamed to put your hard-earned money into what helps you live your life!
Same! This made me feel so validated being attached to stuffed animals at 26. And with my anxiety and depression, they're like a physical anchor if that makes sense.
I have Mario theme stuffies which are all the evil villains dry bowser dry bones Shy guy etc
Yes! I wish we can normalize adults(including men) having soft toys. They can bring so much comfort and we can all use it since most people feel anxious, lonely.
@@mridul7639 Yessss!
I haven't needed one for a long time, but I just had to put my dog of 12 years down a few weeks ago. I have to say I was so happy that my dad kept a bunch of my old stuffed animals from when I was a kid because it's helped so much to have my old build a bear dog to hold onto at night. It's almost the same size as my old dog (she was small, about 11 pounds) and makes it a little easier to sleep.
I definitely agree that everyone should feel allowed to have stuffed animals if they need it! There's nothing harmful in it to you or other people, so why should they get to judge if it helps you.
Molly I am on the autism spectrum and I want to thank you so much for everything that you do to help expose disabilities to the world and help people who are suffering from anything from being blind to being autistic to have someone who understands our struggles. So thank you.
Elton looks like such a teddy bear. I can’t handle the cuteness! Can’t wait to hear about the long haired grooming journey too.
He is literally a walking teddy bear lol
Yes, I want to learn how long it takes to brush him out and about grooming, too!
Get him boots..believe me as a groomer he needs boots on hot pavement. Also get into a routine of brushing daily. And if you have to skip make sure you do his pantaloons, chest, ears as a quickie. Also see if a groomer can bulk thin his heavy areas of he is too hot
As a lover of super fluffy dogs, I'm always a little envious of anyone who has one. My Shepherd has a thick coat but he doesn't have long hair. Neither does the rat terrier service puppy I'm raising... love those dogs that need a ton of grooming.
The way he tilts his head back to look at you when you talk to him, his face is filled with such love for you 🥰🥰. I also love how he lays with his legs splayed out like a little frog when you were out at the restaurant. Such a cutie 🥰
Hey Molly, highly suggest boots or the adhesive paw protectors over musher’s secret. It gave my pup awful blisters, the hot pavement + oil-based musher’s secret basically fried his little paw pads.
Was just going to comment the same thing! It is GREAT for salt or snow but is not a good thing to use for hot pavement!
That's a valid point and concern. It also depends on the dog though, and under what conditions he'll work in as well as the thickness of his paws. Youch, I'm sorry that happened to your baby.
Boots are great--I use them all the time with my own guide dog--if the dog likes them. Just be sure the boots are breathable. Generally though, it's not recommended to work a dog for long periods of time over 85 degrees.
YES!!!! As a disabled person I’ve spent my life trying to keep up, and act “normal”, but like…. I’m now at the point of “I’m gonna do what I need and want to do to make my life easier, and if you don’t like it, either pay my bills for you to have a valid opinion, or leave, because I don’t care” 🤷🏼♀️
I love it when Elton was greeting Moe and he would stop for a second being so goofy and just look at Molly as if he was making sure everything was okay. You can tell he cares so much for you already in the way he looks out for you and has so much love towards you in his actions Molly ♥
I am an adult with no disabilities, but even I still love swing chairs and fidget toys. Rocking chairs and hammocks are great too. Everyone should do what makes them the most comfortable.
I agree w/Brandi’s comment about boots. Mushers is great for conditioning the pads but does nothing 4 protection from hot pavement. I now live in sunny Florida (born & raised in the S F valley) & boots are a must! Many blessings 2 u, EJ & ur great Mom! (her filming is fantastic!). PEACE y’all! 🐾
I’m so thankful that you’ve taken us on this journey with you. I can’t wait to see how you and Elton John grow and learn together. ❤
My pupper, Sandy Sue, is a chew FIEND and her favorite toy is her Kong Extreme! It’s held up fairly well over the last 2 years. Enjoy figuring out Elton John’s favorites! ☺️💜🐶
I second kong toys! My pup is a SUPER strong chewer and those hold up pretty well. Also recommend bullymake nylon chews.
I get the super chewer subscription box for my heavy chewers. Benebones are also a hit with my dogs. If you don't want to give him things to shred, stick to nylon and rubber for toys, and I also reccomend edible chews like bones, beef trachea, bully sticks, fish skins, ect. Variety is your best friend for keeping them happy
Seconding this one. I have a heavy chewer too, like can-eat-a-black-kong-toy heavy, and the bark box super chewer toys are the absolute best! He's destroyed a few of them, but it took way longer than most toys, and the majority are still in good enough shape for him to continue using. Those, and beef femurs are his faves.
YES YES YES! My dogs love bullysticks. Oh man, do some of 'em smell, but they love 'em! Another great heavy rubber toy is a goughnut. If your dog destroys it, they'll replace it for free. I've had a goughnut for over a decade and it's survived four dogs so far.
@@khanhhm5762 super chewer has the same policy. If your dog destroys one of their toys, they send a replacement for free. They also customize boxes based on your dogs preferences and what works best for them
@@sunnybun7656 Oh that is fantastic! I will definitely check them out. Thank you so much for sharing.
Cooling matts, and Cooling vests for long hair dogs in LA are amazing! I live in San Diego, and my fuffly boy lives on his cooling mat all summer!
The green pet shop is my favorite ☺️
Welcome home Elton John!🎉 Hope you guys have great years ahead of you!❤
Here's hoping for a long and happy life together!
Yes!
A good think to remember for chewy dogs is that their jaws are strong but their teeth aren't. To tell if something is going to be too hard bang it on you knee and if it hurts its too hard. Other is if you can't indent it with your finger it's too hard. Broken teeth hurt! Gotta protect them!
Welcome OFFICIALLY to the killer bee club Elton John! It’s the best and you are so lucky to have Molly as a mom/master, you’ll have a great life.
I'm sure tons of people have already recommended them to you, but Kong toys are ideal for dogs that chew a lot. I had a Pitbull/Beagle mix who would obliterate any stuffed or fabric toy, no matter how 'durable' they were advertised to be. The Kong toys were the only ones to survive. She especially liked the bone shaped one, the ball and the tug-of-war ring. We never really used the insertable treat feature that the toys come with, she just loved chewing on them regardless.
So glad you and Elton are settling in nicely. I hope you continue to find your comfy spaces and have a long and prosperous life together.
I'm 34 and sleep with stuffies It helps my anxiety. I feel a lot of presser in my chest and sleeping with something agents my chest has been so helpful.
I’m the same way! I’ve recently started sleeping with a square “magic bag” (like a microwaveable warm bean bag) on my chest. Weighted blankets are too much for me, but I feel better with the weight on my chest
@@alexshaw8167
I like weighted blankets, but the typical advice for how to get used to sleeping under one (lay it over just your feet first) is completely wrong for me. I feel trapped if my feet are disproportionately weighed down, and prefer to have weight on my torso and _upper_ legs.
i worked in a pet supply store for 6 years and have a big chewer of my own.
elk antlers are the BEST for big chewers. they're a little pricey, but last weeks if not months (compared to bully sticks which only lasted my dog half an hour or so). it's great mental stimulation for the dog to try to get the marrow out of it and they don't break to create sharp splinters like bones do. of course, make sure to get an antler appropriately sized for elton john (so not one too small that he can break into a choking hazard easily). any chew toy requires supervision since there's always a risk of the dog breaking off a piece and trying to swallow it not matter what it's made out of. there's also a chew made out of yak's milk that when it gets down to a small size, it can be put into the microwave with water to puff up into a soft treat so none of it is wasted the way small pieces of bully stick might be.
also! if he's interested in soft toys, kong makes a soft toy with a rope skeleton and much less stuffing that holds up pretty well to big chewers and rough players. there's also toys made out of firehose material that's super durable. a classic kong extreme is their hardest/densest rubber and can be filled with peanut butter and kibble mixture and frozen (to extend the time it takes for the dog to get everything out).
edited to add! i wouldn't recommend mushers as a replacement for booties on hot pavement. it's essentially chapstick for your dog's paws and originally made for sled dogs who get cracked paw pads from being on ice and snow. it's not going to provide any protection from the heat, but might help soothe any damage caused by the heat once on a cool surface. in my experience, the best way to apply it is to just massage it into the dog's foot for like 20 minutes per foot (if you can get him to stay still that long). they'll pretty much immediately lick it off before it has a chance to do anything for them otherwise.
OMG, I'm 29 and share my bed with so many stuffed animals it's amazing there is room for me. I love jellycat cause they are so soft, but also, their mini octopus is the perfect size to carry in a handbag or pocket and works great as a sensory fidget for me. The tentacles go through my fingers and kinda grip onto my hand and it's so soothing to play with. I'd never really put the needing soft toys down to having a disability but having you explain it make it make so much sense to me. Thank you so much!
I have mobility issues due to MS, and I have a long Flexi-lead to take my pet running in the park. Urban dweller with no yard here, and I can’t keep up with her when she runs, so I put her on the lead and let her run around and around and around as I am either standing still or sitting. She loves it and keeps her safe.
I have a Doberman puppy that is 8months old and 80lbs. I learned a huge lesson he chews any soft toys anything with string or cloth. He had a blockage in his intestine that was 4 1/2 inches long and as round as golf ball.
He’s finally healed and healthy
I cannot say how nice it is to hear how supportive your mom is of all your interests and how you two just make each other laugh. Support is so important. I'll put in my two cents about chew bones - they are so easy to get stuck in the jaw so it's important to get ones that have holes to breathe through in emergencies and always watch your dog during play time with them ❤
I love that you still love stuffed toys xx I have so many, on a recent 2weeks stay in hospital I had my yellow ducky with me and the nurses just validated me and they even when changing my bed gave him the top blanket tucked him in every day xx brightend my day so much xx stuffiness are just a comfort 100% xxxx
Elton John seems to be adjusting well!
regarding your awesome new swing- growing up we had a swinging/rocking bench, a swing set with an adult-sized 2-seater swing, my dad would only sit in a lazy boy that rocked, and my mom often sat in a rocking chair while the kids were delegated to the boring couch. Things that just make sense for blind people!
Toys for chewers: Kong Tire, Kong Ball, Kong Cone; you can put whip cream, peanut butter, and freeze or other treats.
I would also suggest solid rubber mix type balls that are hard for a human to squeeze by hand, but somewhat squish when stepped on. My Doberman has an Orange one that he got as a gift. Petco also sells a huge tire with rope on two ends. My dog loves it!! When he decides it is time to destroy it, he likes to hold it with both paws and bite it apart.
Hey Molly. With dogs that like to chew great toys for them are the hard chew toys where you can put food in them. Its great for chewing, to keep them busy while you're out without them, and also stimulates their mind as they have to put effort in to get the food.
They also make cooling vests for dogs he would probly love that.
Jellycats are among my favorite stuffed animals! They have an adorable design and the materials are just so soft! They are mostly sold as a baby/child’s toy hence I think why they are so soft. I love their designs so cute!😄😊
My suggestion for chewers is: don't run out of NylaBones. I ordered the big ones for my Chihuahua because he went through the medium sized ones fast.
I’ve never thought about sleeping with a stuffy. Honestly I’m going to try it because I have bad anxiety. Thanks for helping me now and over the last decade ❤️ #killerbeeforlife
Mom of a big chewer here 🙋🏼♀️ I’d recommend Kong toys, but especially any of the black Kong toys. My bulldog has yet to destroy any of them. Good luck! 😊
Definitely never leave a dog unsupervised with a toy. We learned our lesson with our Chocolate lab. We got him a beef scented Nylabone. He ate it and had to have surgery to remove it. 😱
not blind or disabled, but i have sensory issues and soft stuffed animals are heaven for my fingers. it feels good to know im not alone in my love for stuffies lol
my irish wolfhound is also a chewer. she is obsessed with puffed beef cheeks and lasts her quite a while. raw meaty bones work as well and can help clean the dog's teeth. you'd just have to deal with touching it and making sure it goes back in the freezer when he's done chewing
I'm autistic and I love soft stuffed animals they feel so good. And they're good to snuggle with my wonky EDS shoulders.
My current lab is a chewer (our old one was not at all, even as a puppy) and he loves the tough rubber texture toys like the heavy chewer Kong toys. For consumable options, we have had the most success with bully sticks and yak milk sticks (when they get it worn down to a small piece, you can microwave it for a minute and it turns it into a cheesy poof treat).
My service dog LOVES elk antlers. They don’t splinter and have trace minerals in them that the dog gets as they chew on them. The antlers soften as they chew on them but they last forever. There are different sizes and you can get a split or whole antler. Of course you’ll need to get a big one for Elton John, but I like it because it’s very long lasting, good for their teeth, safe and all natural. And it must smell or taste really good because my dog will sniff it out and pick it out of her toy basket!
Hi Molly, I have a Bernese mountain dog at home that is a chewy dog and a little trick that I do with her is that a first buy a real bone and once she ate all of the bone marrow inside the bone (which took a few days) I filled it back up with caned food that I’ll put in the freezer before giving it to her. Like that I can reuse the bone since they can be pretty expensive and I’ll give it to her when it’s hot outside to help cool her down
Molly, from a owner of a Lab who is a Strong chewer I don’t recommend giving Elton nylabones because the plastic gets really sharp and can not only cut upen their gums, if he eats the plastic it could cause a blockage in his intestines or worse plus let me tell you when my dog was a puppy and tried these before I knew any better the plastic left shards everywhere and let me just tell your it was PAINFUL to step on because they are clear so they are hard for a sighted person to see let alone someone who is blind it’s like stepping on a Lego; So I highly recommend Himalayan elk chews they don’t make a mess and can be microwaved once they get down to a tiny piece and they turn into like a doggie cheeto so they are zero waste (I would feed the puff outside though once it’s microwaved because it can leave a few crumbs I also recommend single ingredient chews like bully sticks, beef gullet, pig ears, etc and the last thing I can’t recommend enough that is the best chew for super chewers is a elk antler they are long lasting and don’t leave a mess
Mushers secret is amazing for pad condition I use it on my agility dogs every summer. If you are suffering with Elton-Johns pads being a bit soft there is also a product called Tuff-Foot that friends have used and are impressed with. Boots might end up being the go to in the heat though.
Thought I was the only one, that pavement would still burn his poor paw pads.
Mushers is amazing highly recommend it for the doggos. I sometimes use it also with boots if I go to Palm Springs during the summer when it's really hot.
My dog is a MAJOR chewer. She can chew through and destroy the toughest of tough toys in just minutes. One of the only things I have found she can satisfy her need to chew and not destroy are playology rubber toys. They are flavored like the Nyla bones but are rubber so they don’t get really rough. Plus my girl likes toys that squeak but obviously destroys most of them quickly but playology toys squeak too! You can get them off Amazon!
MOLLY- AURIC IS BY SAMANTHA RAVANDHAL (Canadian beauty influencer in BC). You guys would so get along!! Also auric is such a good line! we love Sam! Yay Canadian beauty queens.
Sending love to you and Elton John!!
You talking about the soft toys, I always find it really weird that its seen as weird. Everyone I went to Uni with had them in dorms all the way through to end of Uni and yet we all sort of hid them to start with because it was perceived as 'childish'. However, in some other cultures its so so normal to even have them through out your house all the way through your life, and I love that.
I definitely recommend getting him an antler! They are great for their teeth and gums- his gums may bleed a bit at first but his gums toughen up over the use of the antler. Stay away from other types of bones (like rib bones) since they can shatter and Elton John may ingest the shards and we don’t want that!
As for other toys Kong makes pretty good toys for chewers- their toys are color coded. Red is regular and black is for tough chewers. Both should work for Elton John (I have a 150lb german shepherd and great dane mix who has separation anxiety so she was a huge chewer in her puppy years).
The last thing I recommend is the fire hose toy (specifically the Outward Hound brand) things made with firehose material is great!
The indestructible pineapple on Amazon has been good for my tough chewer (SDiT). One of the few that have lasted over a year. Thank you for the noxgear light hound from a previous video recommendation, I love it for evening runs on the property. So bright from a distance.
My nephews got me a squishmallow as a get well present after my amputation and I have loved having it. That and fuzzy blankets were my go to comfort items during my recovery.
I'd recommend west paw dog toys. I know a pit bull that absolutely loves the balls they sell and my dog is also a fan. I have a big 85 lb lab and he prefers softer toys, but he is a destructor so it's a good in between. I also got him a rubber pride bone from target and it's become his favorite toy
That Flexi leash is THE BEST!!! It never tangles, maintains the coil pressure without pulling on the dog, so even if he's all the way out the leash doesn't drag, and it zips right back in even if he runs back. ALSO, because the ribbon is coiled UNDER the handle instead of in front, it's so much more comfortably balanced in weight to hold. Because I live in an apartment, I have one for my Frenchie and take him out to the yard and just let him do zoomies all over the place!! Also it's pretty comfortable to use as a normal leash, so you can lock it at 5ft, put it in your off hand, and hold the ribbon in your other to control like a normal lead. I've had mine for years and am totally going to buy again IF I ever need to. Highly recommend!!!
Also for anyone practicing keeping your dog in range, for say trails, hiking etc, I've taught my dog distance commands and hand signals for if I'm turning a corner or going another direction, and he's learned how to stay in range of me without ever getting to the end of the lead. I'm confident that if I ever took him off leash he'd still stay in range, I won't though, because you just never know, so the long Flexi is great for that type of training, as well as just giving the dog the feeling of freedom when you don't have a fenced in yard to let them experience that feeling.
My malamute is a super chewer and I recommend a half/split deer or elk antler. We also had a Buffalo horn, which worked, but it had a smell that didn’t go away. I don’t recommend any sort of real bone or bully stick for super chewers, they break them down way too quickly and can swallow the small pieces. Nylabone is a good alternative, but keep an eye on those too, my dog has chewed tiny chunks off of those, so we have to switch them out after a while.
for dogs that love to chew try Himalayan cheese chews or antlers! my chewer loves both! Plus when the Himalayan cheese gets too small for them to safely chew you can put it in the microwave and it puffs up like a little treat!
I am 29 and also love stuffed animals and always sleep with one. I'm not blind, but I am neurodiverse, so big fan of poppers for fidget toys and just soft things, love the comfort of something soft, so I have a collection of blankets and stuffies
I also love stuffed animals, fidgets, and swinging it helps with my anxiety and depression.
My dog is a chewer! He destroys everything but for some reason he does not destroy the spiky balls. He has several in different sizes and color. The Kong ones are great specially if you can put treats or peanut butter in them. I also buy him a bone from Petsmart that has peanut butter mix inside. He spends hours with it leaking the inside but does not destroy it.❤
You should try bark Box for super chewers, It's a monthly Box you'll get and they're themed and they have 2 bags of treats 2 toys and 2 chewsticks and it's fantastic. You can also decide what kind of toys you want so if they like more nylon toys or other types you can customize to size of toys or allergies and more. And all the toys are unique so you don't get the same toy twice and you can't find them in stores either. Hopefully this helps
Nylabone has an almost plastic ring that we give our heeler who's a MAJOR chewer. She'll usually break toys in a few minutes, but the nylabone ring has lasted for months. It's brown and usually is flavored
Best dog toy I have found for tough chewers who don’t love super hard plastic toys is a harder ball with spikes covered in a fabric design, we have a raccoon
So happy to see one of your videos pop up after a bad day
I hope you have better days ahead! Sending good vibes your way! XO
We have wishbones for both of our dogs! They love them! They last quite a while and they are perfect for chewy dogs!
finaly home where you both need to be to build the best bond possible love the content. my friend is on a waiting list for mera (sorry if its spelt wrong) friend says thank you for giving him more opportunities xx
Molly I hope you get lots of crazy glasses/sunglasses to match your fluffy boy. I imagine lots of fun photo shoots with him :) So happy for you that things seem to be calming down and working out. What great news about Ben!
Kong has extreme chewer toys, they are the black in colour, the red are regular chewer.(colour description may help in finding them.) They don't seem to come apart like the bone you showed.
100% agree on the nylabones for him all 6 of our dogs have at least 2 each, grab a slicker brush if you don’t already have, one the furminator won’t break down a matt but in my 14 years as a groomer a slicker brush has been my saving grace and will help untangle even the most stubborn coats. Thanks for sharing Molly. ❤ Michelle from the Sunshine Coast Australia
I'm happy Elton John is settling in to your new time zone. He's really sweet and such a pretty dog. Thank you for sharing your first week at home.
I love Himalayan cheese chews. My dog is a big chewer and she loves them and they last a while if you let them dry out a little before giving them. Once they get to small you soak them in water and put them in the microwave for the 2 minutes and they become a cheese puff for them! We have a reoccurring purchase through Amazon.
This is so surreal. I’m so glad I follow your channel because I had no idea how exhausting an adjustment this is.
Thank you for speaking about your experience and showing the process. Elton John is amazing, I’m so glad he’s settling in at home. ❤
Molly the Auric make up is UA-camr Samantha Ravendahl’s brand, I’ve seen great reviews on it! Can you please add a link for your stuffed animals? My daughter would love them! xx
Molly what you said at 15:35 really hit me today. It was exactly what I needed to hear. I've been dealing with a new change in my disability (getting worse) and have really been struggling lately. I really needed to hear that because I always feel guilty when I go to what people would consider childish things but if it helps me why should I feel guilty?
Sorry to hear that you are struggling. You are right that if something helps you to feel better there should be no guilt involved. Sending you positive vibes!
I am a 47 yr old woman with no extra challenges in life and I would be lost without my stuffed animals and cuddling them at night. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel guilty about being yourself. Positive vibes your way.
My boy is a chewer and absolutely loves dried beef tracheas. I know it sounds gross, but they are great for joints, as they are packed with collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin. They are also great for their teeth!
Also Molly check out the snowball fidget ball. It has like corn starch inside and when you squeeze it, it feels (and looks) and sounds like snow crunching under your feet and it’s ADDICTING
i'm not blind but i've always loved stuffed animals, i have pretty bad anxiety so i just assume that's the reason, they're super comforting
I still find comfort and joy from stuffed animals and some toys. I don't see any reason an adult can't enjoy those things anymore. Its healing for my inner child and soothing for my anxiety. It brings me simple happiness. I once looked it up and more adults use stuffed animals than you'd think... especially during stressful times, traveling away from home, and to sleep.
I’d love to see a video of your favorite dog items! I feel like you have a lot of experience with different personalities :) toys, treats, outfits, everything!
I have two German shepherd chewers, and I mean BIG chewers. Their fave hard toy is a T shape, so they play with it upside down and they rest their paws on the top of the T so the stick is straight up and they don't have to fidget constantly to keep it in place while they chew!
Aww Molly, I love the way Elton John looks at you- he is head over heels for his Mama and whilst it has understandably taken you some time to bond - Elton John just loved you from that first day! It’s beautiful to see - you are his world! He seriously looks the proudest dog when he is guiding you!
I have a chewer and I have to say keep your stuffed animals out of his reach- or they will get chewed noses, ears and tails! My daughter is autistic and loves stuffed animals of the canine variety and she shed many a tear when our dog got a hold of her favourites. At one point I purchased a bag of replacement noses- as I had to repair her beloved stuffed animals so often!
My chewer is definitely triggered by anxiety, he is a Daddy and Mamas boy and if we are out then he needs chew toys or he will find something to chew (usually our bedding or pillows anything that smells like us) - he will carry my husbands croc around and sleep with his nose inside my husbands croc. My husband wears crocs instead of slippers as our chewer went through so many pairs of his slippers!
My chewer loves an antler to chew - deer antler sheds naturally and they are great for keeping puppy chewers busy. I would also suggest lick mats - with peanut butter or another treat paste - licking stimulates oxytocin and calms them - which is also why they chew if they are anxious
www.amazon.co.uk/LickiMat-Boredom-Anxiety-Reducer-Alternative/dp/B089DPJPRM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3QX2T7BAMADRX&keywords=lick+mats+for+dogs&qid=1664916421&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjA0IiwicXNhIjoiNS41OSIsInFzcCI6IjUuNTAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=Lick+ma%2Caps%2C631&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyWTg3RjRXWE5DVFhQJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjQ5MjQwMVJSVTdFV0taWERWTCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTI3NDkwMTg4TTFFSjkyTVhOTyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
Are you able to see the outline, or shadow, of your guide dog?
Would be interested in an update on your vision (I know others commented last time I asked that there's other videos, but would be interested in a new update.)
I recently have gotten into stuffed animals and I’m 30. I have adhd and I love the texture and feeling of them. Squishimellos have been life changing for me, and I have a weighted dinosaur that’s adorable and awesome.
You just exude down to earth-ness and kindness. Watching your videos is a good mood boost for me honestly!
Collab with Pete when? Haha. I need that in my life!
I love plushies too (26 years old). Nothing wrong with that, never stopped sleeping with them either. It's comfort. I have this big fluffy dog from ikea. I freaking love to hug that plush when I am in bed, it's so comfy and comforting.
Kongs are great for chewers. Especially if you can occasionally stuff it with some peanut butter, maybe even refrigerate or freezing it overnight. Just make sure you buy the right one for your dog's size, because they are different strengths. Even the toughest chew for small dogs is not the same as the toughest chew for a big dog like Elton John. I would type in Black Kong for 80lb dog. The Black Kong is their strongest material, typically.
Deer antlers have been something that my super chewy pups have loved! As long as you can find resources that offer antlers that were found/shedded and not pulled from a live animal all the better! They last a while and super tough aka they last at least a few months! Our bully breed really enjoys them. I haven’t heard anything bad about them, and know there’s also elk and moose too that some offer but haven’t really tried those out
Again: we always get from resources we trust and know that the antlers were harvested humanely and were shedded antlers! Gotta keep all animals safe ❤
Glad you are safe and sound both home and everything and Molly and can’t wait for ur adventures together to start and begin ❤
I am so happy you two are settling in together well. I know it must be very difficult with the quick transition between dogs. Best wishes to you and your new fluffball!
He’s a chewer, so I recommend anything and everything Kong LOL. My golden retriever loved those toys; RIP Egan, and thank you for being my eyes.
Yes!!! Kong toys & Jolly balls are the best for heavy chewers! My GSD is a chewer, too(with a special preference for ball toys)
Thank you for uploading just now, this day hasn't been the greatest so I really needed some positive Molly and Elton John energy right now!
A brightly coloured flex-leash is also useful for the dog, to prevent them from getting tangled up around things because they don’t realise the leash is there. My sister-in-law’s parents have a dog who was constantly getting her leash tangled around things until they switched from a dark grey leash to a bright pink one.
And you’ve probably already done this, but all the soft toys that Elton John would have just destroyed if he got his paws (and jaws) on them are definitely best sent to Montreal for Benelux to enjoy.
I am autistic & have anxiety disorders and I just love your videos, I love what you do for the disabled community, I love feeling seen. I can relate to many of your struggles and joys, I feel so validated that you use sensory toys! You have inspired me also to look into getting myself a service dog (Mira only does autism device dogs for kids, as if you stop being autistic when you turn ten?) and I would love to see your tips or advice for the process of getting a dog, things to buy, things to do to prepare as my service dog would be my first ever dog!
Thank you, Molly.
Mira very specifically provides autism service dogs to autistic youth up to age 15 who live in Quebec or The Martimes. The program isn't currently accepting applicants because the volume of requests they've received is so high. I suspect their age cut off doesn't reflect a belief that autism disappears at age 15, much like their geographic requirements surely don't reflect a belief that all autistic youth in Canada live in Quebec & the Maritime provinces. It's Mira's youngest program and when you have limited resources you can often best use them by choosing a particular target group to focus on & specialize for.
@@eleanoreliz im sure that’s true! It is, however, very difficult to find organizations anywhere that provide autism service dogs for adults - I’ve found one or two out of the dozens I’ve searched for - and I think we have a societal problem of ignoring autistic adults
Auric is Samantha Ravendals makeup line. The eyeshadow has 2 textures in the pot. The flip top is pressed powder, and if you unscrew the top, there's a cream base that matches the powder.
I have a heavy chewer!! Don't waste your money on those stuffed toys marketed for heavy chewers. Your dog will demolish them in a day. We like heavy rope toys, large antlers ( those are pricey though ), and "stuff less" plushies. At bedtime we alternate between Merrick Fresh Kisses bones ( natural with coconut oil and botanicals) and Old Mother Hubbard P-nuttier bones.
He absolutely loves you, he smiles so much when you pet him, even his eyes light up.
I’m so excited to see your new guide flourish with you 💖
Hey Molly!
My pet is an Australian Cattle Dog (the ultimate chewer) and he LOVES to chew naturally shed elk antlers. They do not splinter and also help to clean teeth.
Hope this helps!
Appreciate what works with fidget toys. Yes fidget toys can be calming
Congratulations on your forever home, Elton John! :) Wishing y'all the best with bonding and solidifying as a team
edit: my favorite tough toys for my excited chewing pup come from the superchewer bark box. we have toys from a year ago still that he hasn't destroyed (easily a record!) Be careful with soft/squishy nylabones, they can be eaten and cause issues (unfortunately, an issue we had with our corgi).
agreed. I have a Scottie terrier and she completely tore apart that same kind of Nylabone and ATE the pieces before I realized what she was doing. She spent the rest of the day throwing up chunks of it. Luckily, no more issues after that day, but it easily could've been worse. I've been careful what kind of chews I give her ever since.
@@BlackCatBritt I'm so glad she threw up the pieces! Theodore was determined not to, and ended up needing surgery 😱 he's fine now, recovered slowly, and ideally will never eat another squishy toy
My German Shepherd weighs a little over 100 lbs and at 7.5 he still loves toys and chewing. His favorites are his Kong bone which he’s had for about five years and it’s still intact, and he also loves elk antlers which are pricey but he loves them. Just make sure you get an extra large piece of elk antler since Elton is a big boy and loves to chew.
Activity toys and treats are great. You can keep them in the freezer and feed them to Elton John in the kitchen or on the patio. There's lot of great ones out there. Sometimes you can make your own from scratch.
fellow SD handler who had to pull my SD for almost a year because he lost the drive to work. It's been so hard, but comforting to journey with you through this.
Hey Molly! Love the video as always. My dog is also a chewer and he loves Benebones! They are similar to Nylabones, and awesome for chewers as they’re big and last quite a long time. Chewy has a variety pack of 4 that I bought for my boy for a great price. Thanks for always sharing your life with us!