Shelley Reads and Writes

Category: Products You’ll Love

  • Vet Techs: Earn CE on the Go with VETgirl’s Flexible Courses

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Ever feel stuck hunting for RACE‑approved CE that fits around your shifts, family life, or study schedule? As a busy vet tech, the struggle of juggling hands‑on work and license requirements is all too real. That’s exactly why I’ve grown to love VETgirl CE—this platform delivers top-quality continuing education you can access anytime, anywhere.

    Why It Works for Vet Techs Like Us

    VETgirl offers a robust library of RACE-accredited courses, including live webinars, on-demand videos, podcasts, and blog-based quizzes—all tailored for vet techs and vets alike. Whether you’re commuting, grabbing a coffee, or sneaking in an educational break between patients, it fits seamlessly into your routine.

    From clinical deep-dives in anesthesia, dermatology, and critical care to leadership and practice management tracks, their content covers real challenges we face daily. There’s also a certificate program offering 12–60 hours of credit, included with membership, perfect for techs who want to dive deeper into specific areas.

    Insider Praise: Real Techs, Real Feedback

    People rave about how practical and engaging the courses are. Techs describe VETgirl as “clinical CE that actually works with our time constraints” and appreciate how each session offers tangible takeaways for better patient care. The mix of formats—podcasts, webinars, quick blog posts—makes earning credits feel doable, even on the toughest days.

    Fit It Into Your Learning Style

    • Prefer listening? Download a podcast while walking or commuting.
    • Want interaction? Join live webinars and earn CE in real time.
    • Short on time? On-demand videos and blog quizzes let you earn credits in minutes.

    Why I Recommend It

    It’s vet tech–focused, affordable, and clinically relevant—no fluff, just useful knowledge from experts in a format that respects your schedule. Whether your local hospital limits in-person CE or you simply want a flexible option you can access anytime, VETgirl keeps your learning going without burnout.

    Ready to earn CE that actually fits your life?
    Take a peek at VETgirl’s ELITE membership—choose the plan that suits your pace, start with a free or trial webinar if they offer one, and see how it strengthens your confidence and skills on the floor.

    Looking to join the community? Check out my affiliate link to help support my own journey of learning. Even better, you get ten percent off for your first year!  

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    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.

  • Cat Water Fountain Benefits (and Why I Won’t Go Back)

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Worried your cat isn’t drinking enough water? You’re definitely not alone. A lot of cat parents deal with this—especially since many cats are surprisingly picky about how they hydrate. Still water in a regular bowl often doesn’t cut it. And when cats don’t get enough moisture, it can lead to dehydration, urinary tract issues, or even kidney problems over time. It’s one of those sneaky little health concerns that can go unnoticed—until it turns into a vet visit.

    That’s where a cat fountain can make a big difference. Instead of stagnant water sitting in a bowl all day, a fountain keeps it moving and fresh—just the way most cats prefer. The gentle stream mimics running water in nature, which cats are naturally drawn to. It’s like flipping a switch: suddenly your cat is way more interested in drinking regularly, and you can feel better knowing they’re staying hydrated.

    Fountains also come with built-in filters that help remove impurities, hair, and debris, so the water not only looks cleaner—it is cleaner. And if your cat is a bit of a water snob (most are), that fresh taste can be the thing that finally encourages them to drink more throughout the day.

    Another bonus? They’re surprisingly low-maintenance. Most models only need to be topped off every few days and cleaned weekly. Some even come with dishwasher-safe parts to make things easier. No more constant bowl refills or wondering when your cat last drank.

    Product Available on Pet Cube

    If your cat turns up their nose at their water bowl, or you’re simply looking for an easy upgrade to support their long-term health, a fountain might be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. It’s one of those small switches that can have a big impact—and your cat will thank you (probably by drinking more and knocking fewer cups off the table). Hydrated cat = happy cat.

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    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.

  • Why I Love Ohora Nails (and Why You Will Too!)

    Nails by Ohora

    As much as I love spending time caring for pets, writing blogs, and helping other pet owners — my hands go through a lot! Between typing, cleaning, and everyday life, keeping my nails looking nice used to be nearly impossible. Regular polish chipped in days, salon visits were expensive and time-consuming, and DIY gels always seemed to end in frustration.

    Then I discovered Ohora nails — and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever go back.

    If you’ve ever wished you could have salon-quality nails that last for weeks without the cost or hassle of an appointment, Ohora might just be your new obsession too.

    💖 What Are Ohora Nails?

    Ohora nails are semi-cured gel nail strips that give you a professional gel manicure at home — no fancy equipment or nail-tech skills required. They come pre-formed, slightly flexible, and about 60% cured. Once you press them onto your nails and cure them under a UV lamp, they harden into a glossy, chip-resistant finish that lasts up to two weeks or more.

    In short: they’re salon results without the salon price tag.

    🕓 Why They Work So Well for Busy People

    Between work, family, pets, and everyday life, most of us don’t have hours to sit at a nail salon. Ohora nails take minutes to apply.

    You simply:

    1. Clean your nails.
    2. Choose the correct sizes for each nail.
    3. Press the strips in place and trim the edges.
    4. Cure them with the mini UV lamp.

    That’s it — you’re left with perfectly smooth, shiny nails that feel like they were done professionally.

    And the best part? If you get interrupted (like when your dog decides to bark at a leaf outside mid-application), you can stop and finish later — something you definitely can’t do at a salon!

    💅 Why I Prefer Ohora Over Traditional Gel or Polish

    Here are a few reasons Ohora nails stand out from every other option I’ve tried:

    • No Mess, No Smell: No sticky bottles or chemical fumes — just peel and stick.
    • Strong and Long-Lasting: They stay flawless for 10–14 days (even longer for some).
    • Endless Designs: From classy French tips to sparkly holiday looks, there’s something for everyone.
    • Affordable: Most sets are under $15 — far less than a single salon manicure.
    • Gentle on Nails: They don’t require harsh removal chemicals if you use the recommended remover.

    Plus, Ohora’s designs look so polished (pun intended) that I often get compliments — even from people who think I had them professionally done.

    🏡 Perfect for Anyone Who Wants Easy Beauty

    I love that Ohora nails fit real life. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or someone who just doesn’t love spending hours doing beauty routines, these nails give you confidence and convenience at the same time.

    If you’re curious, I recommend trying one of their starter sets — they usually come with everything you need, including the UV lamp.

    👉 You can shop Ohora nails here with my affiliate link.

    Ohora nails have been a total game-changer for me. They’re affordable, easy to use, and they hold up beautifully — even with my hands constantly busy caring for pets and typing blog posts.

    If you want pretty nails that last, without the salon time or price, I genuinely recommend giving Ohora a try.

    Your hands (and your wallet) will thank you. 💅

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    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.

  • 💡 Top Tips for Using an At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device (Safely and Effectively)

    Product Available on Amazon

    If you’ve recently invested in an at-home laser hair removal device — like the Ubroo IPL or another IPL system — you’re probably excited to start seeing results. Smooth, hair-free skin without salon visits? Yes, please!

    But while these devices are safe and convenient, getting the best results (and avoiding irritation) takes a little know-how. As someone who loves at-home beauty tools, I’ve learned that the right prep and technique make all the difference.

    Here are my favorite tips for using your at-home laser hair removal device safely and effectively, so you can enjoy professional-quality results right at home.

    ✨ Always Start with Clean, Shaved Skin

    Before you begin any IPL or laser session, make sure the area is clean, dry, and freshly shaved.

    Shaving ensures that the light energy targets the hair follicle beneath the skin — not the hair above it. Avoid waxing, plucking, or epilating before treatments, since removing the root prevents the laser from working properly.

    👉 Pro tip: Shave the night before so your skin has time to calm down before using your device.

    ❄️  Test Your Skin and Start Slow

    Every skin type is different. That’s why most devices (like the Ubroo IPL) have multiple intensity levels — start with the lowest setting the first time you use it.

    Do a small test patch on your arm or leg and wait 24 hours to make sure your skin reacts well before treating larger areas. Gradually increase the intensity level as you feel more comfortable.

    If your device has a built-in cooling feature, use it! Cooling before and after helps soothe your skin and prevent redness or swelling.

    💡 Stick to the Schedule

    Consistency is key with IPL treatments. Most devices recommend using them once or twice a week for the first six to eight weeks, then reducing to maintenance sessions every few months.

    You won’t see results overnight — but by staying consistent, you’ll start noticing thinner, slower regrowth within a few sessions.

    Think of it like training your skin: the more regular your sessions, the better your long-term results.

    🧴 Avoid Sun Exposure (Before and After)

    Laser and IPL devices target pigment, so tanned or recently sun-exposed skin is more sensitive and at higher risk for irritation.

    Avoid tanning or sunbathing for at least 48 hours before and after treatments. Always use SPF on treated areas if they’ll be exposed to sunlight — even just driving to work!

    🪞 Don’t Rush — Be Methodical

    It’s tempting to glide your device over large areas quickly, but take your time to ensure even coverage.

    Overlap slightly as you move, and hold the device at a 90° angle to your skin for best results.

    For small or curved areas like underarms or knees, switch to manual mode if your device has one. It gives you better precision and prevents missed spots.

    🧼 Keep Your Device Clean

    After every session, gently wipe the treatment window and cooling plate with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or water entering the light window.

    Keeping your device clean ensures that the light stays strong and your results stay consistent.

    🌸 Be Patient and Consistent

    It takes a few weeks to see noticeable results — but don’t give up! Each session weakens more hair follicles, so your regrowth becomes lighter and slower over time.

    Stay consistent, track your sessions, and celebrate small wins along the way. Smooth, confident skin is totally worth it!

    💬 Final Thoughts

    Using an at-home laser hair removal device is one of the easiest ways to achieve salon-smooth skin on your own time and budget. With a little prep, patience, and the right technique, you’ll love your results.If you’re still looking for a device to try, I highly recommend the Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device — it’s painless, effective, and has a built-in cooling system that makes the process super comfortable.

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    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.

  • ❄️ Smooth, Simple, and Painless: Why I Love the Ubroo IPL Laser Hair Removal Device

    Product Available on Amazon

    I am also going to use this blog as an opportunity to share products I love and want to share with you.

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    If you’re tired of shaving, waxing, or spending big money at salons for hair removal, there’s finally a solution that actually works—and lets you stay comfortable at home.

    The Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device offers professional-level results with ice-cooling technology and red-light IPL treatment, designed for both women and men who want smooth, beautiful skin without irritation or hassle.

    Here’s why I decided to grab one and I can’t wait to see if it’s worth the hype.

    💙 What Makes the Ubroo IPL Device Different

    Not all at-home laser hair removal devices are created equal. The Ubroo IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) system stands out because it uses advanced red-light technology (600–1200nm) to safely target hair follicles deep below the skin’s surface.

    This process sends the follicles into a “dormant” state, reducing regrowth over time and leaving your skin smoother with each use.

    But what really makes it special is the built-in 5°C ice-cooling feature—it instantly cools your skin before each flash, so you can enjoy hair removal without pain or redness.

    It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin yet powerful enough to see visible results in as little as 6–8 weeks.

    ❄️ Comfort Meets Convenience

    One of the most frustrating parts of hair removal is the discomfort—burning, irritation, or redness that lasts for hours.

    The Ubroo IPL solves that problem beautifully. The cooling plate keeps skin at a soothing temperature during every flash, while the ergonomic, curved design makes it easy to use on any body area, from your legs to your bikini line or even your face.

    It also comes with 9 adjustable intensity levels, so you can customize the treatment to your comfort and skin sensitivity. Start low, increase as your skin adjusts, and you’ll find the perfect balance of comfort and effectiveness.

    💡 Designed for Real Life

    The Ubroo IPL device includes both manual and automatic modes, so you can switch depending on your needs:

    • Manual mode: Perfect for small, sensitive areas like your underarms, lips, or bikini line.
    • Automatic mode: Ideal for larger zones like your legs, arms, or back.

    And with 999,900 flashes, this device can easily last years—enough for your entire body and even shared use with family members (just remember to sanitize between uses).

    Each session only takes minutes, and because it’s corded, you never have to worry about charging mid-treatment.

    🏠 Why I Recommend It

    Here’s why I think this device is such a smart investment:

    ✅ Saves money: One purchase gives you salon-quality results without expensive treatments or appointments.
    ✅ Time-saving: No waiting in lines or scheduling visits—you can do it anytime, anywhere.
    ✅ Comfortable & safe: The 5°C cooling plate protects your skin from heat damage.
    ✅ Full-body ready: Works on face, arms, legs, bikini line, and more.
    ✅ Long-term results: Most users see up to 96% hair reduction after two months.

    It even comes with goggles, a shaver, and a user manual, so you’re ready to go as soon as it arrives.

    ✨ My Final Thoughts

    If you’ve ever wanted smooth, hair-free skin without salon prices, the Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device is a must-try. It’s safe, effective, and shockingly easy to use.

    The combination of ice-cooling comfort, powerful red-light IPL, and affordable pricing makes it one of the best home devices I’ve found.

    Whether you’re prepping for summer or just ready to ditch shaving for good, the Ubroo IPL helps you look and feel your best—all from the comfort of home.

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    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.