Dog Collar Styles: Your Personality or Your Dog's?

Find us on Facebook                                                                          Follow us on Twitter

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

Oliver Sports his Country Boy Bandana

A recent publication in the Sacramento Dog Care Examiner, by Shellie Willetts, encouraged me to evaluate my own collar personalities imposed on my dogs. Since I have collected quite a wardrobe of bandanas, my dogs often wear them, particularly on special occasions.

Xena, in particular, is partial to her accessory, often bringing it to me if it falls off. It's as if she were saying, "Mom, please help me put this back on." I melt every time she does this.

According to Ms. Willetts, "the bandana is a free style approach to an outdoor and adventurous life style. You’re a go with the flow kind of person, you don’t always follow the rules and your dog lives the dream!"

I have to say that description works for us. Good job, Shellie. Let's check out some of the other comments in her enjoyable analysis of the many dog collar styles available.

(c) copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

Here We Go Again in our Sunday Best

More of Shellie's analysis:

The pink collar with sparkly diamonds: You are high maintenance and so is your pooch, what else is there to say?

The tied rope collar: You don’t care what anybody thinks. Ever! And your dog can prove it!

Black leather spiked collar: You are tough, macho and need everyone to know that you and your dog are NOT to be messed with.

No collar: You are a nudist at heart but are afraid to show it to others so you leave it to your dog.

Simple collar with flame decal: This style expresses a repressed personality screaming for attention from the right person. Your dog is communicating your desires silently; do you have an answer for the person who understands them?

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko

All Ready for Earth Day

And still more clever classifications:

Collar with pictures of your dog’s breed: This is a repetitive statement and is only correcting the person’s judgment that is looking at your dog and not knowing the breed. You like to make sure everyone knows your dog’s breed so there are no incorrect assumptions.

Argyle: This Ivy League style suggests that you feel authority over others and believe your dog does too.

Polka dot collars: You just want to have fun and your dog probably doesn’t have a preference for this collar because you keep him/her so busy going places to notice.

Collars with little dog paws on it: This collar doesn’t make much of a personality statement other than it has dog paw markings so it is a dog collar. You pay attention to some details but are not engrossed in them.

Hawaiian style flowers: You just want to be on the beach and escape from the world with your dog.

Chili peppers: You like it spicy. You are a risk taker and like to lay it on the line. You are out there working and enjoy a break from time to time.

Solid colors: You are a basics person and you like to stick with a favorite because it works for you.

Leopard pattern: You are a show off and everyone needs to know it. You never keep your expressions hidden, you come right out with them and you enjoy your dog’s attention.

Zebra pattern: You walk on the wild side. Nothing keeps you down. You walk your dog with pride and often!

Reflector collars and bright safety collars: Safety first is your motto. You like to exercise yourself and your dog and take precautions while doing it.

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008

Oliver is Pooped 

After a Long Halloween Evening

Thank you to Shellie for her insightful examination of dog collars. I hope you enjoyed this and learned a bit about YOURSELF. I'll step up and admit that my dogs' bandanas are purely an extention of my nurturing inner self. Needless to say, my only girl, Xena, has a beautifully decorated collar of hearts--perfect for an affectionate, sweet girl. What else can I say?

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

Jacque and Oliver Enjoy a Romp

in their St. Patrick's Day Bandanas

If you are not really into dog fashion or style, this interesting collar and heel-handle combination is a particularly clever tool. I tested one out on Bear, a local dog park friend of Tanner's. Bear's owner really likes not having to worry about remembering a leash. It's built right into the collar and retracts on heavy-duty elastic, so it is barely noticable. Cool idea, huh?

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Successful Frisbee Dog Adoption

You can't miss this video. At Disc Dog Nation, you'll find Chris's blog and a video of his new pup, Kota.

Congratulations to Kota for finding a forever home with Chris. You may remember seeing Kota in my sidebar, as Kodi, a pup looking for an adoptive home.  You'll hardly believe what you see Kota do in the video at this link, after a few short weeks with his new owner. Bravo!

ASK THE VET: Canine Influenza

Follow us at Twitter

Find us on Facebook

(c) photo copyright  MLMR

Rufus Needs to Know

 About Dog Flu

You will start hearing more about Canine Influenza as time goes on.  It did seem to start here in Florida in 2004, or was at least traced back to a greyhound racetrack at that time. 


 It seems to present problems for dogs in ‘shelter situations’ like humane societies, race tracks, and boarding facilities.  It is popping up in our companion animals but mimics many other upper respiratory infections.  Because of that, we aren’t diagnosing the flu exactly but just giving it the all encompassing ‘upper respiratory infection’ title.  


Most people do not want to pay for the specialized test to be run in order to find out for sure.  They just want some pills to make their dogs stop coughing and sneezing.  


There is only 1 lab that is running the influenza test to my knowledge, at this time, and that is Cornell.  A vaccine did hit the market in July of this year but is not widely used yet.  Veterinarians would like to have more data suggesting it’s efficacy before recommending the vaccine.  I would imagine that it will become a core vaccine in the next 5-10 years.  


Canine flu is not zoonotic; in other words humans cannot get it from dogs.

Dr. Jacki

ASK THE VET

LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com 

For more information on Dr. Jacki and her practice, you may find her at  4 Paws House Calls, or (407) 832-9266. A personal appointment will most likely provide more specific information on your dog and your questions.

Dr. Jacki's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Do Dogs Experience Peer Pressure?

Follow us on Twitter

Find us on Facebook

(c) copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

Midas

This Dog Park Buddy Shows
 No Signs of Peer Pressure

Today's visit to the dog park brought up a question in my mind. I've never heard this discussed by Cesar Millan or any other dog expert, so I'm tossing YOU a bone. What do you think about this: Do dogs experience peer pressure?

When Tanner peed with his leg up today, right in front of a large group of dogs, I had to wonder out loud if this had something to do with the pack mentality and peer pressure. You see, Tanner was "raised" by an older, female Retriever mix. Xena, my almost 13 year old girl taught Tanner by example, to pee by squatting.

Tanner has always squatted like a girl. Now, after 2 years of dog parking, he has begun to occasionally show off his manhood by using the boy's method, i.e. one leg up.

I find this fascinating and have to assume the he does this at the dog park because the gang is "watching." After all, he doesn't do it that way at home. NEVER!

This curious development begs a question. Should I discourage Tanner from lifting his leg? It appears to be a male habit among most dogs. Tanner has not learned the art of "marking", so I'm thinking he just wants to behave like one of the guys, when the guys are around. Any thoughts? 

So, here's your chance to test out my comment link at the bottom of the post. I'd love to hear from you. Perhaps I should make this a poll.  Hmmm....good idea. Check the sidebar.


Finally, Join me Friday for our first post from our new ASK THE VET columnist, Dr. Jacki. If you have questions for Dr. Jacki, we would love to hear from you. Send your questions to LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com/ .

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Cloning Dogs: What Do You Think?

by Carrie Boyko

(c) courtesy Dancing Poodle on Flickr.com

A recent contest to choose a well-qualified dog to clone, was won by a Canadian trainer/handler of a search and rescue dog. Clearly, this dog had scenting talents beyond the average canine, as he was the most successful dog at finding humans in the 9/11 episodes. His 5 cloned puppies have now been awarded to his owner/handler/trainer, who is thrilled to have 5 puppies that he believes will likely have the talents, drive and temperament of their father. Time will tell.

Differing opinions on the pros and cons of cloning not withstanding, I still find it a bit over-kill for a contest to be held for the "best" dog to be cloned. It seems to me that this promotion commercializes the process, and this is not something I feel comfortable with--at least not yet.

By anyone else's standards, many other dogs could have been equally qualified. For instance, the winner of Best in Show at Westminster could clearly have been a useful clone in continuing a strong show line with perfect conformance characteristics. Yet, in agility, a national champion Border Collie might have easily been viewed as the most driven, focused and fast dog on the planet, thereby making him the clear winner. Who is to say what dog is the best? A contest seems to make the decision subjective, and completely in the hands of the judges. What are their priorities?

While I understand that search and rescue dogs have jobs that far outweigh those of dogs in sporting activities, I can only condone this contest if it were private funds that supported it. In this instance, an individual interested in continuing a line of dogs that can be quickly and effectively trained to locate buried victims, could possibly have my vote, even though the idea still doesn't sit right in my stomach.

I suppose, for me, it comes down to purpose. Was this money and this clone done for a noble reason or simply a scientific experiment? I'll withold judgment on this and ask your opinions. The COMMENT link below this post is gray, located in the white box at the very end. Please let me know your thoughts. I'd like to get a consensus here. I find this topic fascinating, while also baffling. What are your thoughts?

Adoption of Unlikely Infant is Big News

MAIL ONLINE, an online newspaper in the UK, reported that a giant farm dog rescued and is now nursing and fostering a tiny piglet. The unlikely family is doing well. A heartwarming story with many photos can be found at this link. It will make your day!

Find All Things Dog Blog at Facebook

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Introducing Dr. Jacki, Our ASK THE VET Columnist

Find us on Facebook

Dr. Jacki

Our ASK THE VET Columnist

It is with great pride and pleasure that I introduce you to your new ASK THE VET columnist. Dr. Jacki will be answering your questions and offering helpful tips in her column right here on All Things Dog Blog.


An Orlando area native, Dr. Jacki is a graduate of Auburn University and has been practicing veterinary medicine for 12 years. In addition to working in several local groups, she now has a house call practice, 4 Paws House Calls, that handles most regular veterinary care. A busy mom, she has a passion for pets and for helping families get the care they need, whether it be in their home or by answering a question or two in this column.


Dr. Jacki is excited to begin helping you with your dog health and welfare concerns. Got a dog question, concern, or just need an education about some aspect of dog care? Now's your chance to get more information on your particular issue. You may send your questions for ASK THE VET to LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com and please include "Ask the Vet" in the subject line.

If you have a specialized problem, I encourage you to make an appointment with a veterinarian and get personalized care. Our ASK THE VET column is designed for general areas of interest or concern in the field of dog medicine. General healthcare questions, vaccinations, wellness testing, prescription side effects, pet products, feeding guidelines, flea and tick prevention, bathing and coat care, and other areas that relate to overall health will be suitable questions for ASK THE VET. If you submit training or grooming questions, they should be related to the dog's health.


Feel free to submit a photo or two of your best friend (no people please), along with first names. No last names or personal information will be shared or published on the blog. By sending your photo, you agree to have the picture published on this blog, if Dr. Jacki answers your question here.


All questions may not be answered on the blog, whether related to excess volume or unsuitable content. Personal responses are not possible.


Information on ASK THE VET will also be available in the sidebar. We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your questions about healthcare for your best friend. Remember, our ASK THE VET email is LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com . Let's get those emails coming!



Disclaimer: Dr. Jacki's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Dogs and Babies: An Interview with a New Mom

Find us on Facebook

Helping your dog understand the evolving pack structure when your family adds members is a task that requires forethought and preparation. Bringing a baby into your home is even more challenging for a dog because of the confusing things a baby does. Imagine, from your dog's perspective, the strange little human who cannot yet walk, and makes many odd and annoying noises.

Charlie, Baby Oliver's Pomeranian Housemate

Dogs need our leadership to help them understand that we are still in charge, and all is well. More importantly, giving your dog guidance in terms of rules and boundaries, well before the baby arrives, will help assure that your dog understands the baby's place; he is just another pack leader.

Today I am talking with new mom, Carrie McClain, about how her family has dealt with their recent new baby, after his homecoming:

Boyko) Congratulations on your new addition. My Papillon, Oliver, and I think you picked an awesome name--Oliver!

McClain) Yes! Actually, my Oliver was larger when he was born, than yours is now. He also out-weighed Charlie by a full pound (9 lb., 6 oz.)!

Boyko) Ouch! Can you tell my readers about your dog, Charlie.

McClain) Charlie is our almost 12 year old Pomeranian. He's been mama's baby for a long time!

Boyko) So, when your baby boy was born, how did things change for Charlie?

McClain) He spent a few days with his grammy while we adjusted. That went just fine for him. He loved staying there; it was familiar.

Boyko) When he came home, how did he react to the changes? Did he seem to sense a difference in your demeanor towards him?

McClain) At first he pouted a bit and this interfered with some of his routine, like medicine timing and eating. I think he could tell I was feeling guilty about not spending as much time with him. He's warming up a bit though and now will come to get me if he hears the baby cry. It's very cute.

Boyko) How did you solve the pouting?

McClain) Hubby took Charlie out for daily walks, one on one. That helped him get some attention and the exercise was good for his attitude. I also try to make some time for him myself, so he knows he's still important to me. Even if I just let him take a nap with me, to him that's a big deal.

Boyko) Cesar Millan would like that; hubby maintained his leadership role. Does Oliver get out on walks too?

McClain) Now we all go together.

Boyko) Awesome! One happy pack. Is Charlie behind the baby's stroller?

McClain) Usually one of us "wears" the baby in a Moby wrap while the other walks Charlie. Occasionally I will wear the baby and walk Charlie while B (hubby) is at work. Charlie has always been well-behaved on his walks so we haven't had too much of a problem. If B and Charlie get too far ahead, Charlie will stop and wait until we've caught up. It's usually difficult to even get him out the door unless he's sure I'm with him. He did try to run once but when I used my stern mama voice he immediately stopped. Thankfully! And, I don't let Charlie sit on my lap when the baby is there. I've been very clear about this rule.

Boyko) Has Charlie been given a chance to "greet" Oliver yet?

McClain) We let Charlie smell the baby when both are calm. I've also read about families that will introduce the dog to an item from the baby before the actual baby. We didn't feel this was necessary with Charlie, but it seems like a good idea for a larger or more aggressive dog.

Boyko) Excellent that you focus on "calm" energy for their greetings. You must have read some pack leader books, huh?

McClain) Fortunately, Charlie is a pretty good-natured guy, so I was not too worried for Oliver's safety. We haven't actually read any books, but it seems to me that if you treat your dog with love and respect, that's what you will get in return.

Boyko) I would agree that respect gets respect. All in all, it sounds like the transition is going well.

McClain) It isn't prefect, but it's going alright. I think I might be suffering more than Charlie is. We've tried to make sure he has been put out as little as possible, to avoid jealousy and other problems such as hurt feelings.

Boyko) Thanks for sharing your experience, and good luck with Oliver and Charlie.

McClain) And thank you for the guest post at my blog, Carrie's Kitchen Creations. Who doesn't like homemade organic brownies? Oh, and one last thing. Be sure to stop in and see my new blog: Oh Baby O! where I talk babies, baby stuff and baby care.

Boyko) You got it.

Carrie McClain is the Chief Executive Blogger at Carrie's Kitchen Creations and Oh Baby O! Married to "B" and a busy mother to new baby, Oliver, Carrie also enjoys many forms of fiber arts and plans an Etsy site to sell her goods. Not to be neglected is her first "child", Charlie, an adorable Pomeranian who continues to enjoy napping with Carrie whenever he can.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Dog Whisperer to Launch Magazine

Find All Things Dog Blog on Facebook

This is BIG news for dog lovers. Up until now, Cesar Millan's show, The Dog Whisperer, has been available only to cable viewers and those of us willing to shell out the kibble worth a set of DVDs. Yes, I'll admit, I own them all, or all that are currently available. That's mostly because I don't get cable that provides the Dog Whisperer show to me.

My kids say we're cheap, but the truth is we watch little TV. Better to live our lives than to watch others live their fake ones. Did I say "Get a Life?" Absolutely not. It's your decision.

Getting back to Cesar. He's launching a new magazine as of this month. Have you seen it at the news stand yet? I can't wait. I'm hopeful to catch a few tidbits on topics that always seem to elude me. His insight is amazing and invaluable to those of us willing to give it a chance.

No, his techniques don't work for everyone. You must make a concerted and consistent effort to be a pack leader 24/7. That means you're always in charge and you let your dog make zero decisions for himself. This is clearly not doable for everyone. I get it.

But if you're open minded to absorbing what you can, this may be your ticket. Order your bi-monthly (that's every 2 months) subscription from this Cesars Way Amazon link to the Dog Whisperer Magazine and you're off to the dog training 101. You can do it right here, right now and be done with it.

Opinions? Thoughts? Comments? Rants? Raves? Hit that link at the bottom of the post and sound off!

One last thing. Don't forget to join me for the big introduction on Friday. Our new staff veterinarian, Dr. Jacki, will be introduced, with her first post to be coming soon thereafter. We're very proud to have this new addition and hope to see you here to learn more. For now, be thinking of questions you'd like to ask, and email them to us at LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com .

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Your Daily Dog Laugh

Does your dog do this...bark or howl when a dog on TV does?  There's nothing better for a good laugh and some family fun than watching Fido watch TV. Check this out:



credit http://www.thedogfiles.com/2009/09/08/the-howling-dalmatian/

This is a cool site for dog education and fun too. They have a Facebook page and post frequently, so if you're interested, you can check them out there. Enjoy!

BTW, just in case your missed my commercial for our upcoming new feature, ASK THE VET, I'd like to encourage you to check out the post at the link, and get those questions rolling. We'd love to know what you want to Ask the Vet.

"Ask the Veterinarian": A New Feature Coming Soon to All Things Dog Blog

Hank Says, "Stay Tuned for our New

Ask the Vet Column: Coming Soon"

My recent poll asked readers for their opinions on improvements to my blog. You asked for it and YOU'RE GETTING IT! Your top request was for the addition of an "Ask the Vet" column. I've had my feelers out for just the right person, and today is our day. Dr. Jacki Bert, is sharpening her pencils and warming up her computer, ready to answer your questions.








So, what do you need to do? Start thinking of what you'd like to ask our Staff Veterinarian. After all, that's what you pay the big bucks for at this free blog, right?!! I'll be introducing her soon, so be sure to visit often.








I'm very proud to be able to pull this off, and I just know you will love YOUR new doctor. She's a delightful young mom with a talented family, as well.




Here's the rules:

1. Questions must be general in nature. The doctor cannot diagnose via the Internet or give specialized advice. Your questions should be useful to many readers.
2. Ask questions that are specific to dog medical issues, dog health, dog diet, and any other topics that relate to the general, physical well-being of your best friend.
3. Feel free to include a photo or photos of your furry friend to include in the answer to your question. No photos with people in them, please. By sending photos, you agree to have them posted with the pet's first name on the blog. You may specify that you would like your first name indicated as the pet's owner, if you wish. Your last name and any personal information about you will not be included.
   

Send your questions to the blog at LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com , and attach digital photos to your email. Multiple questions are welcome, but should be submitted in separate e-mails to help us stay organized. Thanks!




I cannot promise that all questions will be answered on the blog, as we cannot predict the response to this column. Personal responses will not be possible.





Our new column, Ask the Vet, will be up and running soon, so be the first to get your questions in. No office visit fees, paperwork or waiting rooms. It doesn't get any easier than this. What would you like to know about your dog's health?




Questions? Hit the comment link just below this post (next to the envelope icon), send me an email with "Ask the Vet" in the subject line.  Get going now. Dr. Jacki is waiting to hear from YOU.

Enter your email address:



Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

NOTE: Thanks to Brian for sharing his photo of Hank, above. He's definitely a handsome fella.

Missing Neva

Find us on Facebook

I could kick myself. Neva, a beautiful Silver Labrador Retriever, appeared with her young owner only a few short months ago. She was one of few dogs in my neighborhood whose owners found time to allow his dog a romp with Tanner when they passed by on a walk. Tanner and Neva enjoyed a good playtime this morning, and then we had to say goodbye. I should have taken a photo of her and my gang playing. Her leaving  was very sad for me, but I tried to keep it together, knowing that Tanner would absorb my solemn energy if I "lost it".

I'm glad Tanner can live in the moment and not realize he will never see Neva again. He has enjoyed her visits and playtime immensely, and I enjoyed sharing dog stories and info with her owner. How odd that I had a warm and inviting experience with this young man and his pup, only to say goodbye and still not know his name.

Looking down the street, I realized that many of the neighborhood dogs are known to me by name, yet often their owners are only a face. Should I feel guilty about this? Sometimes life's inertia takes over and we don't find time for the things that are important. Maybe, somewhere deep inside, I was simply being a pet parent. Just as I did for three children, I focused on the needs of my dog. He wanted and needed socialization and play. That's what he got. I, in turn, received the satisfaction of seeing him happily playing with another dog with wreckless abandon. What's to regret about that?

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Yorkies Can be Houdinis Also

My husband's cousin has an adorable little Yorkie puppy. It seems that Yorkies can also have talents such as Tanner's for escaping all manner of restraint:

The Dog World Turns to Franchising

Follow me at Twitter


Everywhere I look lately, in pet services guides, the Yellow pages, and even the newspaper, I am finding more and more franchised pet services businesses. Groomers, trainers, boarding and daycare, pet sitters, veterinarians, pet products stores, and much more, have all turned to that big business arena where they can gain instant notoriety through national advertising.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with this strategy, of course, except when you want to have a relationship with a local owner. While generally the owner is a hands-on manager and fully involved in the business, it is up to you to determine if their training has gone beyond how to run their business.

What am I saying exactly? It's simple: Buyer Beware. If you want to hire, for example, a trainer, check out their references or training and experience. Have a few conversations with your prospect before signing on the dotted line. Your experience will depend largely on theirs.

Best wishes for a successful choice in every area of your dogs' needs. Have you had a positive experience with a local franchisee? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Perhaps I can share them with my readers, confidentially, of course. You can reach me via email at LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com . Good pet businesses are good for pet businesses, if you know what I mean. I'd love to hear from you if you have some favorites that should have their horn tooted a bit.

One last note. Did you know that you can email my posts to a friend with a single click? Look at the bottom of this post and you will find a cute little envelope icon. Click that icon and fill in the email address you'd like to send my post to--anytime you like. It's that easy. Feel free to share my tips with your dog friends and family. I hope to see you again soon. Happy tails!

Subscribing by email is FREE and easy. Just fill in your email address and you're on the way:

Enter your email address:



Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Dog Etiquette: Considering Others When You Travel

Find me at Facebook

© photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008

Jacque Sleeps Soundly

in his Travel Crate

with his "Blankie" from Home

I am planning a trip to visit family soon, and intend to take one or two of the dogs along. They enjoy car trips and travel well. In preparing for this, I remembered some dog owners' horror stories. A few of these disasters could easily have been avoided with the right preparation.

While checking for accommodations on Dog Friendly, a travel accommodations site for pet owners, I found these few tips on doggie etiquette. I'd like to add a few of my own. I'll throw in some travel tips too:

• Never travel without a crate, even if your dog does not usually sleep in one. Strange places, smells, sounds, etc. can create a bit of anxiety in your dog. A crate with a pillow that smells like you or your dog will give him a bit more comfort and less anxious concern over the change of surroundings.


• Speak with your vet about treatments for nausea from car or air sickness and anxiety.


• Prior to a trip, feed only minimally, and only if your dog is not usually one to get sick during travel. You can provide treats occasionally as you travel, to keep his tummy rumbles at bay.


• Rather than providing water during travel, pack a lunchbox-sized cooler with ice cubes. If traveling by car, drop ice cubes into his travel crate periodically, to assure he gets adequate fluids.


• When you travel by plane, remove water at least one hour before departure. Limit fluids to less than his usual intake for the time you will be away from an appropriate potty spot. Be sure that you have his travel crate lined with an absorbent towel, just in case.


• Be sure to bring along a health certificate if you are crossing state lines. Many vets charge a small fee for this, but regular "customers" might get them free. Fortunately, my vet provides these free.


• Pack enough food, treats and poop bags for a few extra days, just in case your trip is extended unexpectedly.


• Choose a few of your dog's favorite toys to pull out on occasions when he needs brief entertainment.


• If you must leave your dog in a friend or family member's home while you go out for several hours, use the crate to assure the safety of both dog and owner's home. I always travel with baked cow bones or kongs, and fill them with dog food. When frozen, they provide hours of enjoyment while your dog is in a crate. The bones cannot be eaten, but the frozen dog food can be licked and dug out of the crevice for quite sometime.



• While I know that the link above indicates that dogs should not be left alone in a hotel room, I would offer this advice, when necessity requires it. In the absence of a temperature controlled vehicle with a crate, many dog-friendly hotels simply ask that you place your dog in a crate, if he must be left behind for a brief period. Be considerate of neighboring rooms, if you know your dog is a yapper. Consider asking for a room in the back of the hotel, for instance. Finally, place the "Do Not Disturb" sign on the room door whenever you leave your dog, to assure he will not accidentally be released from his crate by a brush of the vacuum cleaner. If you own a Houdini, consider an extra hook closure to assure your pup does not escape his crate on his own.


• Prior to leaving your dog for several hours, always take the dog on a long, brisk walk or perhaps a jog. A tired dog will naturally want to rest when invited into his crate. Don't forget to praise and treat him each time he enters his crate, and whenever you return to find him happily well-behaved inside his crate. This will reinforce his good behavior, making future outings increasingly easier.


• Finally, if you plan a day's outing, beyond the capacity of your pup's bladder control, here's my advice. When my daughter and I took Oliver out of state once, we found called a few vets, asking about pet sitters that they could recommend. One had a vet tech who liked to pet sit on her day off. She took him in to play with her little Miniature Poodle and the two had a wonderful day. It could not have worked out more perfectly.