Bliss

Yesterday while I was shoveling my driveway I paused to watch one of the dogs as he played enthusiastically with a tennis ball. It caused me ponder how frequently we get wrapped up in the stress and chaos of our lives that we forget it's the simple things that can create bliss. Perhaps, we should take a lesson from our dogs. I'm know you have heard about how dogs live in the moment, but have you REALLY thought about what that means? They don't think or worry about what happened last month, last year, or even an hour ago. Dogs can be SO incredibly satisfied with the simplest things, a tennis ball, a game of fetch, a walk, or a belly rub. When was the last time you woke up in the morning just happy to be alive and ready for the adventure that today may bring? That's how my dogs wake up everyday. In many ways I envy them. Today let's strive to find a little bit of bliss in our own lives. Let's be thankful for our dogs that are always ecstatic when we come home from work, our family that is there, the roof over our heads and little things in our life the we take for granted.

Dog Parks

The topic of the dog park can be somewhat controversial. Some people love it, while others hate it, but the truth of the matter is that regardless of how you feel about it, people go there with their dogs. I have to admit that I am not the biggest fan of dog parks. I think sometimes it can be misused as in dogs that are not properly socialized are there without appropriate leadership from their owners, and that some people use the dog park as the only outlet to exercise their dog. You can, however utilize the dog park as a place to practice social and obedience skills at the same time in a place of very high distractions.
My general protocol when I go to the dog park is to walk, walk, walk, and walk some more. When you walk, your dog will follow you. I don’t expect them to be in a ‘heel’ but I do expect them to check in with me. If I were to enter park and stand there I put my dog in position to make decisions that he may not be equipped to deal with, thus potentially causing a scuffle or fight with another dog.
Here is an example of what I did yesterday when I went to the dog park with a pack of four dogs. Before the dog park adventure could begin we needed to practice some general obedience skills. They all had to ‘wait’ for permission to get out of the car. Once allowed out of the car we practiced ‘heel’, ‘sit’, and ‘down’. I know they were excited to go out and smell the smells, run around and meet new dogs, but I want to reward their calm behavior and reinforce my leadership role. As we entered the park, I had the dogs wait as I opened the gates, and then I turned the direction of the fewest dogs and proceeded to walk the perimeter of the park. As we walked other dogs came over to say ‘hi’ but none of them had opportunity to greet too long. If any of my pack got too far away, or another dog whose body language wasn’t appropriate approached I simply reminded my pack to follow me and we continued to move.
Whether you already take your dog, or if you are considering taking your dog to the dog park please remember to use it as an additional outlet for your dog, not their primary source of exercise. Also keep in mind that movement dissipates energy, so maintain your leadership role and walk with your dog. Also, if your dog is not at all social with other dogs, then the dog park is not for you and you should consider contacting a professional dog trainer.

Dog Saftey Tips During Halloween

It's that time of year again. We get dressed in our most ghoulish costumes to hand out candy or have guests over for the evening. Although Halloween can be lots of fun for us, it can also be stressful on your dog, so here are some tips to help keep your dog calm and safe.

~Keep dogs out of the candy bowl. Especially keep them away from chocolate and candy containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener. If you dog does either of these, contact your veterinarian.

~Dispose of candy wrappers and make sure your dog can’t get into the trash. Wrappers can cause choking or intestinal obstruction.

~If you’re carving Jack-O-Lanterns this year use a battery operated light rather than a candle. Dogs tails can knock items over or even get caught in the flame.

~Walk your dog before trick-or-treaters or party guests arrive.

~Make sure your dog’s ID tag is to date and securely attached to his collar.

~ Find a secure place in your home to keep your dog. Dogs can get loose when the door opens, and the presence costumed people can scare them, increasing the chance dog will run away.

~If you want your dog around when passing out candy, use a baby gate to keep them away from the door.

~Practice your dogs recall. If you dog does escape from the house, having a solid recall will help keep your dog from running away.

~ Keep your dogs indoors. This eliminates the temptation of ill-minded pranksters to frighten, agitate or even steal your dog.

~Last, but not least, don’t take your dog Trick or Treating with you. The sights, sounds and scares of Halloween can be overwhelming for your dog.

If you keep these tips in mind you and your dog can both have a Happy Halloween!