Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Surf’s Up Pup!




It’s that time of year again, when the boards get waxed, the rash guards come out, and the sunscreen put on, as Orange County’s best surfers ride some waves.  But you won’t find Kelly Slater or Sunny Garcia at this world-famous event because this surf competition is for dogs only.
Spanning over 3-days, there is a wide variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy, and plenty of time to enjoy it.  While the additional festivities will take place at various locations, the actual surf competition will take place at the Huntington Dog Beach (at PCH and Goldenwest Street), with this year’s title sponsored by Petco.
The weekend kicks off Friday, September 26th, with a little bit of schmoozing at The Shorebreak Hotel, located at 500 Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach.  The evening will kick off at 6 p.m. with Yappy Hour, followed by the Opening Ceremonies, then a PAWabunga costume contest and awards.  Register online ahead of time and save.  

On Saturday, September 27th, the festivities will continue at the International Surfing Museum.  Located at 411 Olive Avenue in Huntington Beach, the museum will be holding the International Surf Dog Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony.  At the ceremony, three dogs will have their names and paw prints preserved on their own stone at the International Surfing Museum.  Visitors can also learn about the history of dog surfing (from the first surfing dogs to doggie surfboards) at the Dog Surfing History Exhibit which will be going on from 3:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.  Refreshments and Dog Surfing movies will be available for your enjoyment from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., and the induction ceremony starts at 6:45 p.m.    

On Sunday, September 28th, is when the real fun begins.  Registration starts at 8 a.m. and the dog surfing competition begins at 9 a.m.  Divided by weight and judged by their ability to stay on their boards while riding a wave, dogs will compete in a series of heats to determine who will move on to the finals later that day.  At 12:30 p.m., the surf finals begin to determine this year’s surf champion.  The weekend will conclude with the awards and Closing Ceremony held at The Shorebreak Hotel at 2:15 p.m.  

It’s going to be a wet and wild weekend in Huntington Beach so grab the dog, some sunblock, fresh water, and your camera because you’re not going to want to miss it!


Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Take a Walk with your Dog on Week 12





There are walking and hiking trails in every city in Southern California. Whether you are walking a secluded mountain trail or just a path around the local park, your dog will love the experience. 

The Benefits of Walking your Dog: 

Physical Health- Exercise is good for both you and the dog.  It helps clear your mind, keeps your body in shape and your vital organs operating properly, as it does for your dog. Your body releases endorphins, which make you happy (promoting further good health), and overall, that good health will prolong the life of you and your pups.  Exercise is as essential as eating a meal and should be apart of your daily routine.

Mental Health- Just like humans, dogs require mental stimulation on a daily basis. We would go crazy if we were confined to a house all day, every day; so why are we surprised when our dog does?  Dogs need a walk to get out and engage their sense. When they receive that stimulation they aren't as anxious, pent up, or prone to cabin fever.

Socialization- Being outside of your home with your dog lets him/her meet new people and dogs in a neutral area (i.e. not your dogs "territory" to protect).  Having a dog that can get along with other dogs and behave in public is a dream come true for most people. But you have to work at it.  Regular outings will help your dog relax around strangers and new situations, making new experiences less stressful (for both of you).    


Curb Behavioral Issues- Some dogs just have so much energy they don't know what to do with themselves. But any dog can get bored, and a frustrated dog can be a destructive dog. Regular exercise gives your dog an outlet for his/her energy.  A tired dog (from exercise) is most often happy, relaxed, and well-behaved.   

Work on Training-  Your dog might listen to your commands very well at home, but once you step out of that door, you may experience a whole new dog. Being out on a walk is the prefect opportunity to work on your training commands. Its always best to ensure you have a strong "Come, Sit, Stay" rapport with your pooch in case he/she should come off leash while away from home. 

Bonding- One of the most important reasons to walk your dog is the irreplaceable bond you get from it.  If you establish yourself as the pack leader, your dog will most likely listen better and be better behaved at home and in public. He/she will look to you for guidance in all situations and, if he/she feels you are a strong leader, he/she will be less anxious, knowing that you can handle any problems that arise.  

If you are looking for a walk to enjoy with your pup this week, walk for a good cause at the 17th Annual Walk for the Animals fundraiser.

The event takes place on Sunday, September 14, 2014 in Huntington Beach Central Park from 9 a.m. to noon.

Walk for the Animals is an annual fundraising event put on by the OCSPCA.  Each year has a theme where you and your dog can dress up, and this year's theme is Western Waggin' (country).  

This is a fundraising event, so participants are encouraged to raise money before the walk. There will be a Grand Pledge prize for the person who raises the most money, as well as special prizes for anyone who raises $150 or more.  In addition to the walk, there will be contests, entertainment, a silent auction, food trucks, and more. 

Well-mannered dogs, on short leashes, are welcomed to attend, but there is a 2 dog per person limit. They ask that no dogs less than six months of age attend, and females in heat are not allowed at all. 

The walk costs $30 and kids (under 12 years old) are free.

For more de'Tails' on this event, or to pre-register, check out the OCSPCA website

   

Friday, September 5, 2014

Make a Splash this Weekend!



Its that time again - the annual Doggie Pool-ooza event! So if you are looking for something to do this weekend, this is the event for you.

Summer may be coming to a close, but it isn't over yet. And the weather is certainly still hot enough to enjoy a pool party; so grab your sunblock and a towel and take the dog out for some fun in the sun on week 11 of Summer.

If you are unfamiliar Doggie Pool-ooza, it is a giant pool party for dogs.  Play fetch in the water, splash around with other dogs (and dog owners) or just get your paws in the shallow end.  There is an activity for every kind of water dog. In addition to the swimming for the dogs, this year's event will feature food trucks, along with pet adoptions, demos and workshops, contests, discount microchipping, and more!

This Saturday, September 6th, the fun starts at 10 a.m. at the Cucamunga-Guasti Regional Park, located at 800 North Archibald Avenue, in Ontario. The party lasts until 4 p.m., and costs $5 per person and $1 per dog.

Safety First:  Remember that even though you are playing in and around water, that doesn't mean you won't still be affected by the sun/heat.  Make sure you and your pup drink plenty of fresh water (bring your own to be certain you will have it). If your pup looks like he is getting too much sun, take a break in the shade for a while.  If your pup is over heating (panting heavily with a very red tongue), he may be experiencing heat stroke.  Be sure to cool down his belly, groin, and feet pads with cool water then rest in the shade and give him cool fresh water to drink.  And lastly, put on sunblock before you get there (don't forget your dogs nose - and body for short haired white dogs) and be sure to reapply during the day.  Being in the water may keep you cool but that water will reflect the sun, doubling your odds of getting sunburned.