What are Some Tips for Safely Rollerblading with My Dog?

Rollerblading is a great activity to do with a high-energy dog, but it's important to follow some safety guidelines. If it's hot outside, for example, don't rollerblade mid-day. Head out in the cool morning hours, and be sure to bring along some fresh water for both you and your pet.

Wear protective gear, such as a helmet and knee pads, and put fido on a short leash to keep him from crossing in front and tripping you up. Go at a comfortable speed—one the dog can comfortably maintain—and work up to longer distances slowly. Try to find a paved path with a dirt or grassy edge for the dog to run on—that'll be easier on his joints and paw pads.

And remember, give Fido lots of praise as he's trotting along, and stop when he's had enough.

- Dr. Larry McDaniel

What Common Outdoor Plants are Poisonous to Pets?

Ornamental plants add color to our lawns, but some of them pose a hidden danger to our pets.

Some common garden plants can trigger depression, tremors, and even death in your cat or dog. Among the most dangerous plants are rhododendrons, azaleas, oleander, and hyacinths. Daffodils, tulips, and irises can also irritate your pet’s mouth and gastrointestinal tract.

Usually, an animal will stop eating a plant before he consumes a fatal amount. But some plants, like oleander, can kill in very small doses. So the best policy is to keep your pet out of the garden! And if he eats anything suspicious, immediately call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-4-ANIHELP. Charges may apply.

- Dr. Andrea Looney

During Winter, How Do I Know If It's Too Cold to Let My Dog Outside to Play?

Snow and ice can bother a dog’s feet, but most medium and large breeds can still go on a winter run or walk. A rule of thumb for the average Labrador Retriever is - if you can exercise without a face mask, he should do fine. But wash your dog’s feet off when he comes inside. Dogs who lick road salt off their paws can develop a skin irritation between their toes.

Many large dogs can even stay in the yard on a winter day if they have a dry shelter. But small, short-haired breeds like Chihuahuas may never be comfortable in the cold. These pups can benefit from booties to help prevent frostbite and protect their paws from sharp ice. But no matter what precautions you take, if your dog shivers or becomes listless, get her inside right away.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel

I Want to Celebrate My Pets' Birthdays. What are Some Creative Ideas for Things I Can Do?

Why not throw your pets a birthday bash? Whether it’s the dog-gone best pooch party or the purrfect kitty celebration, you’ll need invitations, food, games, gift, and a birthday cake.

Dogs like to party with their pals. You could have a costume parade, a treasure hunt for treats, dips in a wading pool, or agility races. Have doggie and human treats on hand, and perhaps make peanut-butter pupcakes. Don’t forget to scatter water bowls, take lots of photos, and have poop bags handy!

Cats prefer to celebrate with their families. Fish flakes and catnip will make for a happy birthday, and how about a salmon mousse cake? For gifts, a fancy new collar and toys will make your kitty spiffy and spunky.

- Dr. Andrea Looney

What Do Pet Detectives Do?

If a person goes missing, we call nine-one-one. But if your pet is lost, you might need the services of a pet detective – a person trained in how cats and dogs behave if they escape or run away.

For example, if a dog meanders out an open gate, pet detectives know the distance and direction he’ll travel will be different than if he were frightened into a blind panic. A detective could also offer insight into what an inside cat might do if she escapes to the wild outdoors. It’s unlikely that she’ll run far; instead fluffy is likely to hide out in a dark, protected area close to your home.

In addition to providing clues about where your pet has gone, pet detectives can offer advice on search methods, creating effective posters, and using humane traps.

– Dr. Andrea Looney

What are the Benefits of Microchips and How Do They Work?

One of a pet owners greatest fears is getting separated from their pet. Now, many shelters and veterinarians are installing identification chips on pets. It’s a hi-tech way to resolve the separation anxiety of losing a pet.

A microchip implant is a tiny integrated circuit placed under the skin of a dog or cat. The chip emits passive radio frequencies that can be identified by a scanner at a shelter where a lost pet is taken. Think of it as an invisible electronic identification tag.

Early compatibility issues between different kinds of scanners and chips have mostly been resolved. There’s now a universal scanner that reads all brands of chips. They’re helping to get missing cats and dogs back in the grateful arms of their owners.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel

I Let My Dog Out Into the Yard to Play. Should I Still Take Him for Walks on
the Leash?

If you’re lucky enough to have a safe yard at home — does your dog really need to go for a walk? Canine exercise requirements depend on the type of dog, as well as its age and physical condition. It also depends on exactly what exercise the dog is getting in the yard. Is he playing frisbee with you? Chasing squirrels? Or just hanging out?

Taking your dog for a walk could be good for his physical and mental health, and may provide a welcome change of environment— new sights, sounds and smells. Maybe even a new dog in the neighborhood.

For the human companion, dog walking is a good chance to bond with your pet and reinforce its training. Plus you’ll meet the nicest people and their dogs out there.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel

How Do I Take a Great Picture
of My Pet?

Snapping pictures of your pet is a lot of fun, but getting a great shot can be difficult.

To take a good photo of Fluffy, you’ll need to have her full attention. An assistant can help, especially if he’s armed with a toy or a tasty treat!

Try to press the shutter when your pet is alert but still. After all, a fast-moving pet can make a blurry photo. And when it comes to lighting, shooting outside in soft daylight is often the best choice. If you do decide to work indoors, beware of red eye! One way to avoid it is to disable the flash and take the photo in a bright room.

Your pictures will also look better if the background contrasts with your pet’s coat. For instance, a dark cat against a light-colored background will make a more dramatic image.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel

Traveling with Your Dog

Traveling by car

Before taking your dog on a long trip, ask yourself these questions:

• Will your dog be welcome at the vacation destination?
• Will your dog enjoy the trip?
• Is your dog in good health?

If you've answered "yes," accustom your dog to riding in a car. Begin with short rides each day and gradually increase the length of each ride. If your dog is unable to adjust to short rides, a responsible sitter or a boarding kennel is preferable. If you board him, make reservations well in advance, especially for summer months and major holidays.

• Do not feed your dog for at least three hours before leaving on a trip. Take your dog for a walk just before you start the drive and he will be more comfortable as the trip gets underway.
• During stops, provide fresh drinking water for your dog.
• Feed your dog shortly after you arrive at your destination or when you have stopped for the day.
• If your car has adequate space, using a carrier is the safest way for your dog to travel. Never put the carrier on the sunny side of the car where your dog may become overheated.
• If a carrier is not feasible for your dog, consider using a restraining harness. They come in different sizes to fit all breeds and are available at pet supply stores.
• Always put your dog on a leash before letting him out of the car. If you walk your dog on the highway at night, wear reflective strips on your clothing and place a reflective collar on your dog for visibility and protection.
• Never leave your dog in a closed car, even on a mild day. Temperatures in cars can rise quickly even if the windows are open slightly. The heat and insufficient air circulation can quickly lead to heat stress, suffocation and death.

Traveling by air

• Try to avoid peak travel periods when delays and stopovers are longer. Traveling in extreme hot or cold weather may be dangerous if your dog must wait very long before loading and unloading. Plan a trip with as few stops and transfers as possible.
• Make hotel, resort and airline reservations for your dog well in advance. Some airlines have limited space for transporting pets.
• Some airlines allow small dogs to travel with their owner (generally for an additional charge) if the carrier fits under the passenger seat. Otherwise, rent or purchase a carrier or crate which meets airline regulations and affix a LIVE ANIMAL sticker. Mark it with your name and address and the name of a person who can be contacted about your dog at your destination if necessary.
• Put a cushion or blanket on the crate floor. Attach a water cup to the crate door. The cup should be deep, but not too full of water to avoid spilling.
• On the day of the flight, take your dog for a long walk before leaving for the airport.
• At the end of the trip, pick up your dog promptly.

Certain countries and island destinations require a quarantine period for animals at the owner's expense. Ask your travel agent or the consul of the country you plan to visit about quarantines.

Health and identification

• Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up-to-date.
• If the mosquito season begins earlier or ends later in the area you will be visiting, make sure you bring the appropriate heartworm protection.
• Be certain your dog is wearing an identification tag giving his name, your name and home address and telephone number including the area code.
• Take along color pictures of your dog and a written description of his colorings and distinguishing marks. Record your dog's body size and weight. If he is lost, these identification aids could make the difference in locating him.

Packing for your dog

• Carry your dog's health and rabies certificates with you. They may be needed if you fly anywhere or may be required if you board your dog during your trip.
• Pack your dog's water and food bowls, grooming equipment and any heartworm or other medicine it may require.
• If you are not certain that your dog's usual diet will be available at your destination, take a supply with you to avoid digestive upsets which could be caused by a sudden diet change.

At your vacation site, observe all rules and regulations regarding pets. Confine your dog in a carrier or restricted space when leaving him alone. Your consideration will help keep dogs welcome guests.

Fun with Your Dog

Short on time? Big ideas!

By Paula Felps

Having fun with your dog is one of life’s biggest joys. In today’s busy world, it can be hard to find time to do the things we truly enjoy. But regardless of how short you are on time, there is always time to share with your four-legged friend!

Whether it’s a few stolen moments during the week or a new way of performing simple tasks on the weekend, there are countless ways to make sure your dog is an integral part of your life.

"Even doing something together for 10 minutes is better than nothing," says Clough, a trainer who works with owners and their dogs to get the most out of their time together. "You have to break through the idea that you can’t do something [together] because you don’t have enough time. Every little bit counts."

Dog walks & lunch breaks

Whether it’s at home or on the go, Clough says there are many ways to share special moments – you just have to look at your life in a new way.

Of course, finding little things to do together depends entirely on your lifestyle. If you live close to where you work, one great way to squeeze in more time with your pal is to eat lunch at home – together! (Tip: Make your lunch beforehand, and you’ll have more time to spend together enjoying your lunch break!)

It’s not only a wonderful break for your dog – who will benefit from getting an extra walk – but you’ll be surprised how much better it makes you feel to spend your lunch hour with your best friend.

You can also squeeze extra time out of your schedule by using the "buddy system" to complete routine tasks. Clough says that many times, we overlook opportunities to share time together by excluding dogs from basic household chores. "The easiest way to spend time with your dog is to take a mundane thing that you do, like laundry, and make it fun for both of you," she suggests. "Including your dog in everything you do is a good way to bond. So often, we just don’t think to include them."

Errands with your dog

Among the everyday ways you and your dog can spend time together are:

• Get the mail. Every day you go to the mailbox – and most likely, you do it alone. Grab a leash and bring along your four-legged companion, or use this as a time to practice being off leash (if the situation is appropriate). If you have a little bit of extra time, keep walking past the mailbox and get in a short, brisk walk – then pick up your mail on the way back.
• Take out the trash together! This may not seem like much fun to you, but taking your trash out provides you and your dog one more opportunity for togetherness. You can also use this as a time to practice "sit" and "stay."
• Look for your keys. Even your departure can be made into a fun game, Clough says. "Dogs love to play hide and seek. You can hide your keys under a pillow or in the couch, and let him help you find them. It’s something they’ll start to look forward to." (Of course, you’ll want to remember to reward him with a treat when he finds your keys!)

All in a day’s fun

Once you start becoming aware of it, you will discover countless ways to add more togetherness to your day; from running errands together (even a short ride through the bank drive-through can make his day!) to hanging out around the backyard. "It’s a matter of looking at what you do and coming up with creative ways to make it fun and include your dog," Clough says. "Even if you only have five minutes, it counts for more than you realize."

That's enough time for a quick game of fetch or even just a good belly rub. "The more you do these little things together," she says, "the more you become a single unit. It doesn’t matter if you don't have much time; you just have to make it fun."

Share your favorite fun places to hang out together at WagWorld.com!

This article is courtesy of WagWorld A Beneful® Website.

Great Adventures for You and Your Dog

Discover indoor pools, fun parks and city tours.

By Georgia Fisher

Ready to plan some great adventures for you and your dog? Even the best of friendships can grow stronger with new outings, from shopping together to finding new places to play.

If your playtime is getting predictable, read on – we’ve sniffed out some surprises sure to make a splash.

Indoor dog pools

Ready to scrap those laps around the track? Visit the pool instead, or – when weather permits – take a dual dip in the lake. Some water-centric destinations even roll out the red carpet for dogs.

Jesse Kinnon, owner of Coopertown Airboat Tours in Coopertown, Florida, helps dogs and their owners catch wind as they explore the Everglades. (Goggles made for your dog are perfect for protecting his eyes during the ride.)

"You know when you see a car going down the road with a dog’s head hanging out the window in the breeze? It’s kind of the same effect," Jesse chuckles.

For pool dogs who love to stay warm, try indoor swimming. Wisconsin’s Dunkin Dawgs K-9 Aquatic Center lets your friend paddle right along with you as she makes the rounds in a heated pool. Find indoor dog pools here.

Walking tours for dogs

A walking tour is a great way to get closer to your dog as well as your city, but it’s not the only way to take the "staycation" route for two.

In some cities, canine-friendly carriage rides bring a classy, adventurous alternative to the standard stroll around the block. You might even get a lift to the dog park! For hotels, restaurants, parks, and other dog-welcoming businesses across the country, search WagWorld for all the latest Spots and even share your own.

Try a new dog park

You’ve probably already found a good neighborhood park. But why not find another? Even a short zip across town can offer the right sights and smells for new adventures, exercise, and the chance to socialize.

Prefer to stay close to home? You can still show an old park some new tricks. Trade a regular toy for a new one, walk to the dog park instead of driving, or introduce some simple games you haven’t tried.

What to bring to a dog park

Here are a few items to bring to the dog park:

• Favorite toy
• Dog food and collapsible bowl
• Dog-safe insect repellent and dog sunscreen
• Treats
• Retractable leash – even if you don’t think you’ll need it

Share your favorite fun places to hang out together at WagWorld.com!

This article is courtesy of WagWorld A Beneful® Website.

Leisure Time for Two

Find activities that facilitate fun, bonding and discovery.

By Dawn McMullan

Dogs have it made – a nap on the couch, walk around the neighborhood, afternoons at the dog park...

Since everyone loves spending time with their best friends, why not take the activity level up a notch and encourage learning, discovery and togetherness? From jogging to flyball, pooches are the perfect companions for sports and recreation.

Kris Pickering is a Las Vegas attorney by day, flyball devotee by weekend. Pickering and her eight border collies, which range in age from 3 to 13, have competed in flyball for more than a decade. The sport involves teams of four dogs that race a track of hurdles, catch a tennis ball, and then race back.

Flyball is a great way to hone the communication skills between you and your dog, and help pique his interest in sport and exercise.

"Dogs learn to learn – to be interested in what you're trying to communicate," says Pickering, vice chairman of the North American Flyball Association. "They read people really well, and doing any activity with them teaches you to read them and them to read you better. The dog starts to look at you as interesting. You're a source of interest and amusement. You're the game."

Lawrence Frederick, owner of Disc-Connected K9s, revolves his life around his "World Famous Frisbee Dogs." Seven of his eight dogs are rescues and all compete worldwide in Frisbee competitions and shows.

Working with your dog in a sport builds communication and trust, Frederick says. "We're both putting our trust in each other – I'm going to be where the dog knows I'm supposed to be and he's going to be where I know he's supposed to be."

Having fun and playing it safe

With any physical activity you choose to do with your dog, make sure to:

Be hydrated.
Dogs need about eight ounces of water an hour when being physically active.

Be healthy.
In addition to making sure your dog has his shots and is wearing identification, be careful to not overdo it. Be especially aware of the pads on your dog's feet.

Be responsible.
Use a leash when hiking with your dog. It makes the situation safer for your dog and other hikers.

Be tidy.
Since your dog can't clean up after himself, be sure to help him out.

Be safe.
If you take your dog on a boat, get a doggie life jacket. Be sure your dog has plenty of shade breaks and dips in the water to cool off. Keep the weather in mind. A dog shouldn't jog at noon in August in Texas any more than a human should.

Be fun.
That's the easy part.

Tip!

Break out the Frisbee. Working with your dog in a sport builds communication and trust.

This article is courtesy of WagWorld A Beneful® Website.

Summer Fun with Your Dog

Enjoy warm weather with your pooch.

By Paula Felps

"As soon as the weather warms up in the spring, Kaya knows it and immediately decides to extend our walks," says Schrade, who lives in Saratoga Springs, New York.

And longer walking time is only the beginning of more outdoor fun for the two. Warm, sunny weather ushers in the blissful months of summer, which for these two mean soaking in the simple pleasures of longer days, evening sunsets and more things to do around town.

Dog play dates

"We have lots of play dates at the park," Schrade says. "We both love to people-watch, and Kaya has so much fun exploring every corner. I also take her to our town's 'Shakespeare in the Park' festival."

Summer also means more adventurous outings for the duo, including car rides to Vermont and hiking the foothills of the nearby Adirondack Mountains.

"This summer, we're trying kayaking for the first time," she says. "I'll keep Kaya in my lap while I paddle."

Schrade says that when the two do travel, Kaya loves having her favorite toy with her – a fuzzy, bright yellow chicken. "That and her yellow blanket. She loves sleeping on that."

Best of all, summer weather spells more together time for her and her best pal."Kaya loves it when I take her places. One of our favorite things to do is go to outdoor cafés together," Schrade says. "She loves being a part of the scene."

Dog-paddling through the days

Richmond, Va. resident Beth Downey and her eight-year-old Labrador Retriever, Mac, also revel in being able to enjoy wide-open spaces and longer days this time of year.

As often as possible, they retreat to their country residence on Chesapeake Bay for leisurely walks around their wooded property, or afternoons spent splashing in the waters of the Potomac River.

"Mac has loved the water since day one," Downey says with a laugh. "During summer months, we go to the river every weekend and he somehow seems to know when it's Friday. He paces around until we're packed and ready to get in the car. Mac will swim anywhere. I sometimes take him to the lake at the University of Richmond, but his favorite place to swim is the river." (If you and your dog are planning a day of swimming, you can find dog life jackets in different sizes at many pet stores. And, no matter how experienced he is in the water, you should never leave your best friend unattended.)

The temperate waters of the Potomac also are the perfect spot for Mac's favorite summertime activity: spirited games of catch.

"He loves it when I throw a stick or a ball out into the water," Downey says. "Mac will play catch for as long as I throw to him. He also loves to dig in the sand … summer is his absolute favorite time of year."

This article is courtesy of WagWorld A Beneful® Website.