May BarkBox Review + Coupon: Wild Wild Woof

May 30, 2017
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BarkBox is the number 1 monthly subscription box service for dogs, and Daisy’s been getting the Large Dog BarkBox for several years now. Each month we show you what toys and treats are inside that month’s BarkBox, and how the total value of the individual items compares to the price of a monthly subscription. Be aware that each BarkBox subscription is customized for your dog’s size and allergies, so individual items will vary.

Want to see what was in the May BarkBox subscription box for dogs?
Saddle up, pups, because this month’s BarkBox theme was all about the Wild West!

The Cowboy BarkBox came with 2 large squeaky dog toys and 3 full-size treats. Daisy got plush squeaky toys in this box but if your dog is a bit tough on toys, you can specify “heavy chewer” in your subscription profile and your dog will receive tougher toys. This is NOT to be confused with the Super Chewer BarkBox which is a different subscription for dogs. We’ll be reviewing that box separately.

May BarkBox Dog Toys

Rattle Snake Battle Snake ($12 retail value) This guy uncoils for extra long fun. He’s got squeakers AND a rattling tail. He’s cuter than the average snake and much friendlier!

Biff the Spiffy Buffalo ($14 retail value) This toy is made especially for the BarkBox company and is designed for medium to large dogs. It’s squeaky and fun for tossing, tugging and cuddling. Daisy thinks buffalo sounds DELICIOUS and is licking her chops at the idea of having a whole one all to herself!

May BarkBox Dog Treats

Pork and Beans Dog Treats ($6 retail value) These all-natural dog treats are made in the USA by Lucky Dog with NO wheat, soy or corn. And contrary to the name, they do NOT contain beans. The ingredients are: pork, barley, oat, brown rice syrup, maple syrup, and natural smoke flavor. They are a soft and chewy treat.

My Doggy Cheesy Cookies Dog Treats ($10 retail value) These all-natural dog treats are also made in the USA. They’ve got cheddar and parmesan cheese along with molasses, ginger and rye. The cookies are soft-baked and chewy…just like a cookie should be!

Pork Roll Dog Chew ($4 retail value) This 8″ dog treat is 100% all-natural pork and is sourced and made in the USA by Sawmill Creek Smokehouse. We’re saving this one for a special occasion…from experience, we know that these dog chews are long-lasting and super satisfying!

In addition to multiple treats and toys, BarkBox usually includes a fun extra to go along with each monthly theme. Last month was 90’s themed stickers that we thought were totally rad!

This month, the box included a card with a cutout so that you can create a “wanted poster” of your dog. I couldn’t decide what crime Daisy is wanted for but I’m pretty sure it has to do with being TOO cute! She’s also guilty of begging but what dog isn’t?!? She even looks a little guilty in the photo.

BarkBox Cost and Value

By our calculation, this month’s BarkBox had $46 worth of toys and treats if you were to purchase them all separately. A great value when you consider that subscription prices start at $21/month.

Even better, get a FREE BARKBOX added to any plan with coupon code WOOFWOOFMAMA when you order a 1, 6, or 12-month BarkBox subscription using this link.

Want to see what was in previous BarkBoxes and read other reviews? Visit our BarkBox Coupons and Reviews page for more!

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Instant Pot Review + Tips, Hacks and Giveaway

May 24, 2017
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The Instant Pot is one of my favorite things! I’ve had mine for 2 years now, and still rave about it to everyone I know. I gave my parents one for Christmas and now they are hooked, too!

If you want to cut straight to the chase, you can check out some of my favorite Instant Pot recipes, hacks and cooking tips I’ve pinned to my Pinterest Board: I Love My Instant Pot.

What’s an Instant Pot

If you haven’t already heard about the Instant Pot, it’s a programmable electric pressure cooker that takes the place of 7 kitchen appliances/cooking functions. It’s a Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer. Not only is it super versatile, but it also let’s you prepare healthy, tasty dishes up to 70% faster. It’s great for parties and entertaining since it keeps food warm for hours.

Instant Pot Bone Broth and Stew for Pets and People

In addition to cooking for your human family members, you can also use the Instant Pot to cook for your dog! Making bone broth is super easy in the Instant Pot and I usually make several batches each month and always make a batch with NO onions or garlic so that it’s safe for Daisy. I also make dog-friendly stew to store in the freezer in small portions for Daisy. Her favorite is a fish and sweet potato stew but I like to experiment.

How to Store Broth, Stew and Batch Cooking

I find the easiest way to freeze and store bone broth, stew and soup in small portions is using these Square Silicone Molds. Each tray holds 8 4oz cubes so portions are pre-measured when I want to pop a few out of the freezer to use them. I learned this tip from Michelle Tam at Nom Nom Paleo. She’s got amazing Instant Pot Recipes and Tips on her blog!

Easy to Peel Hard-Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot

Another of my favorite IP tricks is making hard-boiled eggs in the Instant Pot. Although it’s not really much faster than other methods, the pressure makes them way easier to peel than any other way I’ve tried. I use this method as my guide but usually put them in a bowl of ice and water to chill them quickly as soon as they are done cooking.

Getting Started with Instant Pot

There are SO many things I make in my Instant Pot: steamed beets, carnitas, “baked” sweet potatoes, short ribs, corned beef & cabbage, shredded chicken…you can even make cheesecake although I haven’t tried that one yet!

If you don’t know where to get started, LifeHacker has done a list of The First 7 Things You Should Make With a New Instant Pot.

You can also join the Official Instant Pot Community Group on Facebook. You’ll connect with all kinds of IP Fanatics and real people sharing Instant Pot recipes, ideas tips and solutions.

In addition to what’s on my Pinterest board, these are some of my favorite Instant Pot recipes and resources:

 

Got a dad or hubby who loves to cook? The Instant Pot makes a GREAT Father’s Day gift idea!

Where to Buy an Instant Pot

If you’re wondering where to buy an Instant Pot, I recommend Amazon.com. I got mine on sale HERE and as new models come out, the previous version usually becomes a great bargain. You’ll also spot Gold Box deals on Instant Pot from time to time as well as Black Friday and Cyber Week deals.

Instant Pot Giveaway

Want a chance to WIN an Instant Pot? Enter our giveaway!

Use the contest widget below to enter for a chance to WIN an Instant Pot 7 In 1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. $99 value.
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BarkBox Dog Subscription Box Review + Coupon: 1990’s Edition

April 29, 2017
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In case you missed it, the April BarkBox was all about the 90’s. This dog box of goodies was full of retro treats and toys that really made us smile. Our review is based on Daisy’s large dog subscription for heavy chewers (not to be confused with the Super Chewer subscription). Since each BarkBox plan is customized for your dog’s size and other preferences, items will vary but the number of items and overall value of the box is usually the same for everyone. Here’s what was in our BarkBox this month.

BarkBox April Dog Treats

  • Joy Sticks Pork Flavored Dog Treats ($6 retail value) All-natural dog treats made in the USA with smoky pork, peas, and potato.
  • Duck Treats for Dogs ($6 retail value) Made in the USA exclusively for BarkBox, these treats include wholesome potatoes, pearled barley, and oatmeal.
  • Pig Ear Chew for Dogs ($5 retail value) This treat is sourced and made in the USA by the folks at Sawmill Creek.

 

April BarkBox Dog Toys

  • Sodapup Crazy Bounce Ball Dog Toy ($12 retail value) It’s just what the name says it it. A rubber ball and chew toy that is designed so that it bounces in crazy and unpredictable ways. It’s heavy and solid so be careful when you throw it!
  • Mix Breed Mix Tape Dog Toy and Treat Puzzle ($14 retail value) This is one of my favorites because in the 90’s we all made mix tapes and it has a fun retro feel that fits with the whole box. It’s also become one of Daisy’s favorite toys, especially when I stick pieces of the joy stick treats in it! It’s a super durable chew toy that seems built to last, even with heavy use.

BarkBox Bonus Items

In addition to amazing toys and treats, we also love that the folks at BarkBox often include bonus items that tie-in with the theme of the month. This time, we got a sheet of super cute and fun stickers. It’s added touches like this, along with the unique toys and treats that you won’t find elsewhere that make BarkBox really special.

We also count on their experts for hand-picked, high-quality treats and toys that introduce us to new pet products that we might not have tried on our own. And if there is every an item that doesn’t meet with your dog’s approval, BarkBox has a satisfaction guarantee and will replace the item with no hassles. We’ve only had to do this one in all the years Daisy has subscribed to BarkBox, but I was impressed with their customer service.

This month’s box items had a total retail value of $43. It will vary from month to month, but with plans starting as low as $21/month we find BarkBox to consistently deliver great value. Note that free shipping is included on US orders ($5 extra for Canada).

BarkBox Coupon Code

Visit BarkBox.com to learn more and start a customized subscription for your dog. Be sure to use BarkBox promo code WOOFWOOFMAMA to get a free extra month added to any plan of 1 month or longer.

Want to see more? Visit our BarkBox Review, Coupons and Deals Page for photos, tips and past BarkBox reviews.

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Super Chewer BarkBox Dog Subscription Box for Toy Destroyers March 2017 Review

March 28, 2017
Some posts may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure.

So far this month we’ve shown you what’s in the March BarkBox for Small Dogs and we’ve reviewed the BarkBox for Large Dogs.

Now we’re back to show and tell you all about the BarkBox Super Chewer edition. The Super Chewer is a monthly dog box subscription with the most durable dog toys and tougher, longer lasting dog chews.

Last time we reviewed the Super Chewer BarkBox, a few dog parents mentioned that they have a small dog that is a toy destroyer. The great news is that the Super Chewer edition comes customized for your dog’s size (Small, Medium or Large Dog). And if you love how cute and creative the monthly themes are for the regular BarkBox subscription, not to worry. The Super Chewer edition follows the same theme each month!

The March BarkBox theme is Bento & Blossoms…perfect for Spring! Every BarkBox comes with a card to give you some extra info and tips about the contents of that month’s box. Here’s the front and inside of the BarkBox card insert for the March Super Chewer Box.

Now that you know a little bit more about the theme, here’s a look at what’s inside the March BarkBox Super Chewer edition that Daisy received, starting with the treats.

  • Caru Duck Recipe Dog Treats ($9 Retail Value) These baked bits have the carefully selected ingredients listed right on the front of the pack: real duck, blueberries and cranberries. They’re grain-free and made in the USA. Duck is one of Daisy’s favorites and these are a big hit!
  • Nootie BBQ Chicken Jerky Chews ($9 Retail Value) These No-Grainers are soft and chewy and made in the USA, which is super important if you decide to give your dog Chicken Jerky treats.
  • Yeti Yak Chew ($11 Retail Value) Similar to a Himalayan Chew, we’ve received these before and they are really long-lasting. Daisy got the Large Dog box but this Medium Chew is plenty big. It’s made from Yak Milk, Cow Milk and Lime Juice. This is one of those chews that needs supervision, and it’s suggested that you take away the pieces once they break off to avoid any choking hazard. You can pop the pieces in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them and then give them back to your pup once you check the temperature.
  • Smart n’ Tasty Grain Free Chicken Chicky Twizzies ($4 Retail Value) This all-natural dog chew contains no artificial ingredients and is twisted for long-lasting chewing. It’s a great alternative to a bully stick, it’s odor-free and 100% digestible.

Now that you’ve seen all the treats, here’s the toys from the Super Chewer March BarkBox. There were 2 heavy-duty rubber dog toys that are sure to hold up to just about any toy destroyer. Keep in mind that BarkBox guarantees their toys, so if something doesn’t hold up or your dog doesn’t like it, you can contact them and they will replace it.

  • Lucky Cat Dog Toy ($14 Retail Value) Made of durable, non-toxic rubber, this cat is hollow so you can stuff it with peanut butter or other yummy stuff like a KONG. It’s bouncy and super CUTE!
  • Ninja Star Treat Dispensing Puzzle Dog Toy ($15 Retail Value) It squeaks and randomly pops out treats when your dog plays with it! This type of extra stimulation and challenge is important, especially for dogs who tend to be hard on their toys or get bored easily and makes for longer lasting play.

The total value of the items in this month’s Super Chewer Box is $62. Since plans start as low as $29/month, you can see what a great value it is to buy the box rather than the individual items. We also love how creative the theme is each month, and how the toys and treats are ones you often can’t get elsewhere. Many are made exclusively for BarkBox and all items come with the satisfaction guarantee.

SuperChewer BarkBox Subscription Prices are as follows:

Daisy and her Lucky Cat waving bye til next time!

Want to know more about BarkBox and customize a plan for your dog? Visit BarkBox.com to check it out!

BarkBox PROMO CODE Tip: Although this new Super Chewer Box Subscription is not eligible for promo codes, you CAN use Promo Code WOOFWOOFMAMA to get a FREE BarkBox added to any regular BarkBox plan HERE.

Visit our BarkBox Coupons and Reviews page for links to previous BarkBox reviews and photos or visit the BarkBox website to customize a plan for your dog.

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BarkBox Review + Coupon: Small Dog Subscription Box March 2017

March 22, 2017
Some posts may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure.

Calling all small dogs! We know you love toys and treats just as much as the big dogs do, and there’s a dog box subscription just for you. It’s BarkBox, a monthly pet subscription box that’s customized for your dog’s size. This month’s BarkBox theme is Bento & Blossoms.

In case you didn’t know, the National Cherry Blossom Festival happens in DC each Spring and commemorates the gift of Japanese cherry trees from the Mayor of Tokyo to the people of the US.

March BarkBox for Small Dogs

This month’s BarkBox had 3 full-size treats and 2 fun dog toys. Here’s a quick rundown of what was in the BarkBox for Small Dogs…keep in mind that items will vary based on how you customize your BarkBox subscription for your dog’s size and allergies.

  • Hello Ducky! Dog Treats (Retail Value $8) Made in the USA, 100% natural duck flavored dog treats. Made with potato flour, these treats are corn, soy, grain, and gluten free.
  • Mr. Porkle Pork Teriyaki Treat (Retail Value $6) Made especially for Bark & Co from the folks at Mountain Country Foods in Okeene, Ohio, these soft and chewy dog treats are grain-free and baked with a sweet and savory flavor that your pup will love.
  • Etta Says! Buffalo Chew (Retail Value $3) The crunchy chew sticks from Etta Says! are some of Daisy’s favorite treats and this one is no exception. 7″ long, 100% American made and sourced. Easy to break into small pieces for smaller dogs or just to make it last longer.

  • Sydney’s Salmon Nigiri (Retail Value $8) This sushi dog toy is one of our favorites! Super cute and squeaky. Daisy is always begging when I get sushi, and now she can have her very own.
  • Get That Geta (Retail Value $10) Inspired by the traditional sandals of feudal Japan, which were designed to elevate the foot in an effort avoid ruining kimonos in puddles. We love it because it’s got crinkle material and a squeaker inside, and the ballistic nylon so it’s great for tug, fetch and chewing!

Caught Daisy eating sushi in bed!

If you were to purchase all of these dog toys and treats separately, the retail value totals $35. That’s a pretty great value considering that BarkBox plans start as low as $21 per month including FREE Shipping. In addition to being a smart way to save on dog toys and treats, we also love the surprise factor and how creative the different theme is each month. We always end up discovering new pet brands and products that we wouldn’t have known about or found on our own.

BarkBox makes a great gift, and we’ve sent them to Daisy’s cousin and a few of her other dog pals too!

BarkBox Coupon Code

Get a FREE extra month added to any order of 1-month or longer when you use BarkBox promo code WOOFWOOFMAMA at checkout. Visit BarkBox.com to learn more and get started.

Visit our BarkBox Coupons and Reviews page for links to previous BarkBox reviews and photos or visit the BarkBox website to customize a plan for your dog.

Filed Under: Pet Deals, Product Reviews, Subscription Boxes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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