July 2025 Goals

If you’ve ever loved a dog so deeply it makes your heart feel like it might burst—you’re in the right place.

I’ve always loved animals. Over the years, I’ve had both dogs and cats that I adored. But nothing compares to the bond I share with little Bailey. My sweet Shetland Sheepdog has completely changed the way I see the world. She’s more than just my dog—she’s my heart on four paws, my shadow, my joy, and my best friend. I’ve never had a bond quite like this before. It’s pure magic.

When Bailey came into my life, I knew right away that she was my soul dog—the one who would inspire me, challenge me, and show me what unconditional love really looks like. And as any dog mom knows, when you have a love like this, you just have to share it. So this blog was born! A space to celebrate her, to connect with other pup-loving hearts, and to savor every Sheltie-fueled adventure we take.

Now that July is here, I’ve been thinking about how I want to grow—not just as a dog mom, but as a blogger and human too. So here are our July 2025 Goals, straight from our hearts (and paws):

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July Goals with Bailey

1. Early Morning Walks (3x a Week!)
Summer sun means hot paws by noon, so we’re setting our alarms early to beat the heat. Plus, there’s something magical about starting the day with a quiet stroll and Bailey’s fluffy tail leading the way. But, as always, safety first. We always make sure that Bailey, and my senior Pekingese Nugget, stay on the grass during walks. Pavement in the summer can reach temperatures too high for sensitive paws to handle.

2. Try a New Enrichment Activity
Bailey is off the charts smart (classic Sheltie!) and needs brain games to stay happy. This month, we’re trying DIY snuffle mats and a new “hide the treat” game. Tell me if I’m out of my mind for thinking of this… a plastic kiddie pool for of ball pit balls, and treats hidden between the balls!

3. Weekly Grooming Routine
Sheltie coat, meet summer shedding! I’m committing to a solid grooming schedule this month to keep Bailey’s fur looking fab and tangle-free. Thankfully she doesn’t seem to mind being bathed as much as Nugget does.

4. Blog Every Single Day
I’ve got so many stories, recipes, and Sheltie wisdom to share! Expect more homemade treat recipes, a peek into our training routine, and some honest moments about life with a high-energy pup. Also, I just signed up for the Ultimate Blog Challenge, so blogging every day will be for a purpose, as well as for fun.

5. Dog-Friendly Day Trip
I would love to take Bailey on a day trip. We live in New Jersey, so one would think taking a beach day trip would be a fun thing to do. Sadly, not here. Our beaches here are not very dog friendly AND we have to pay to enjoy our shoreline. I’m thinking we could take her to a dog friendly restaurant (we have a few of those), go get a pup cup at Starbee’s or go for an extended walk at a state park. Got any suggestions? Let me know!

6. Celebrate “Just Because”
I want to plan a surprise “Bailey Day” this month. Think pupcakes, extra snuggles, and a brand-new toy—just to celebrate the beautiful being that she is.

Bonus Goal

My husband, for this past Mothers Day, gifted me a sewing machine. I’ve wanted one for a while. I had one many years ago and got rid of it shortly before the Rona hit in 2020. I still kick myself thinking about how I could’ve opened an Etsy shop then for masks. Oh well.

I’ve started making all sorts of accessories for Bailey, and they’re cute, and I’m thinking they would look cute on other doggies too.

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What are your July goals with your pup? Whether it’s more playtime, better training, or simply pausing to soak in the snuggles, I hope you take time to connect with your own soul dog this month.

Because at the end of the day, life is better with fur on your clothes, paw prints on your floor, and a Sheltie by your side.

Here’s to a tail-wagging July!