Holiday Prep: Dog vs. Guests

The Holidays are always busy, not only with parties, shopping, and other activities, but with house guests too.  Having strangers in your home can be very stressful for your dog, which can lead to bad and uncharacteristic behaviors. 

Having guests over can be stressful enough as it is.  Try these tips to help make the experience a good one for everyone involved.

1.       Exercise.  Exercise is key for every dog before any company is expected.  A tired dog is a well-behaved dog who is less likely to terrorize your guests.

2.     Educate.  Educate your guests when they arrive on dog rules – Especially Children!

a.     Be respectful of the dog’s space – Only pet the dog on the shoulder or under the chin, and only after the dog accepts their hand in his space.

b.     NO Food or Drink – NO table scraps of any kind should go to the dog.  Keeping track of what food is given to your dog and how much should not be on your to-do list while entertaining guests.  Additionally, your guests may not know that there are many human foods a dog cannot digest such as onions, garlic, avocado, raisins, grapes, mushrooms, chocolate, all of which can make him very sick. Not to mention caffeine, sugar, and alcohol can make him very sick as well.

c.     Watch the Front Door – Don’t leave any doors or side gates open where the dog might get out.

d.     Misc. – Be sure to tell your guests any additional rules for your dog, such as no jumping, no begging, not allowed on the furniture, etc.     

3.     Separate.  Some dogs get too overwhelmed by company, so it may be best to let him keep to himself while you have guests. Place him in a safe and secure place (such as his crate or in a back room).  Give him a chew toy and turn on soothing music to help distract him from other noise. 

*If your dog is out with you and your guests and he snaps at a guest, remember to stay calm and remove your dog from the situation (follow ‘Separate’ instructions above). No Scolding, yelling, or physical punishment, as that will not help the situation. Calmly apologize to your guest and ensure they are not hurt.  A snap implies no actual contact but they may be startled or scratched. Then calmly deconstruct the incident and try to identify what happened so you can avoid future occurrences.

And take into consideration, it’s not uncommon for previously social dogs to become temperamental as they enter their senior years or if they are experiencing discomfort from a health problem.  If you suspect this may be true of your dog, it might be best to let him be by himself until your guests leave.      

5 Ways to Help Your Pup Enjoy Halloween

It’s All Hallows’ Eve!  While humans may look forward to the fun ahead, Halloween can be a very stressful time for dogs.  Imagine having to wear a cumbersome costume while trying to be taken seriously as you attempt to protect the house – which is constantly under attack by strange, short creatures that sort of resemble humans. 

Help your dog prepare for tonight’s festivities by doing the following:

1. First things first, Take your dog for a long walk or run before the trick-or-treating begins.  Your dog is less likely to be hyper, disobedient, or stressed out once strangers start coming to the door.

2. You may consider putting your dog in his/her crate in a quiet room away from the front door, so he/she won’t be disturbed by guests coming to the door.  Give him/her a chew toy to work on and turn on some soothing music to keep your dog’s attention in the room.   You may also want to leave the front door open so no one rings the doorbell, just for good measure.

3. Be sure your dog is secure inside the house. If your pup likes to bolt as soon as the door is open, make sure you have him/her on a leash, or behind a barrier, while answering the door.  You do not want to spend your Halloween night chasing after your dog.

4. If you are taking your dog out trick-or-treating with you, put a glow stick or some sort of light on him/her (or the leash), to ensure drivers can see your dog.

5. Don’t let anyone feed the dog.  Watch children closely as they are usually ready and willing to share their plunder. No chocolate, candy, or anything with refined sugar in it.  

Additionally: If you have a black cat, try to keep him/her indoors tonight.  

Have a happy and safe Howl’oween!

This Weekend: Pooches & Parades

90^th Annual Anaheim Fall Festival & Halloween Parade

A long standing tradition in Anaheim, the Fall Festival & Halloween Parade will be running for its 90^th year.  While the Anaheim Hallowe’en Festival was started in 1923, the parade wasn’t first held until the following year, on October 30^th, 1924.  The parade was started as a way to discourage young people from mischievous Halloween pranks.  The festival and parade were instantly successful and continued to grow each year.  While it did lose its popularity in the 80’s, the long held tradition has made a comeback, and is once again a community favorite.

The Fall Festival starts at 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., on Saturday, the 25^th.  A family and dog friendly event, there is no shortage of things to see and do at the Fall Festival.  There will be craft booths, games, food, and vendors.  You can enter your kid in the Children’s Costume Contest or your dog in the Dog Costume Contest.  There will be story time, a pumpkin patch, as well as pot-bellied pigs.   At 6 p.m. the parade begins, and runs down Broadway, from around West St. to Anaheim Blvd.  If you are looking for something a little chilling, there is the Motel 6 Feet Under haunted house that is open from 7 – 11 p.m. on Oct. 24^th, 25^th, 31^st, and Nov. 1^st, and then again from 7 – 10 p.m. on Oct. 26^th & 30^th.

The festival and parade take place in Downtown Anaheim, south of Lincoln Ave. and East of Harbor, at the intersection of Lemon and Center Street Promenade. If you need an address for GPS, use 205 Center Street Promenade. Parking accessible on Oak Street.

  

14^th Annual Haute Dog Howl’oween Parade

The biggest howl’oween event in California will be held Sunday, October 26^th, 2014 in Long Beach.  Last year over 500 costumed dogs and a few hundred kids registered and walked in the world famous parade seen by over 3,000 dogless gawkers.  Each year the event raises thousands of dollars for the non-profit Community Action Team (CAT), which Haute Dog is a part of.  The money raised goes toward spay/neuter programs, adoption and rescue groups, Operation Santa Paws (bringing toys and blankets to shelter animals), and other Long Beach service projects.

The fair will take place from 12:30p.m. – 4:30p.m. with plenty to see and do such as vendors, pet adoption, bobbing for weenies, a treat stacking contest, bulldog kissing booth, huge pumpkin drops, and more.   The parade will begin at 2:30p.m. and last for about an hour.  The costume contests will include Best Dog Costume, Best Person Costume, Best Group, and Best Float (non-motorized, limit 4’ wide).  Gawkers are encouraged to bring a chair.  The event will be held at the Livingston Park located at 4900 E. Livingston Drive at Park Avenue in Belmont Shores, Long Beach.  For more information check out the Haute Dog website. 

5 Easy Ways to Boost Your Dog’s Immune System

Like humans have a flu season, dogs have seasons when a contagious illness, such as canine cough, is prevalent.  But, just because your dog is exposed to a contagious virus does not necessarily mean he will get sick.  While the strength and strain of a virus do play a role, having a strong and healthy immune system can make all the difference.  Here are 5 easy ways to help your dog build a strong and healthy immune system.

5.   Keep your dog’s environment clean

While your dog may not mind being covered in dirt or having his slobber on everything, an unclean living environment can make him prone to illness and parasites.  Bacteria can easily grow on toys, crates, and bowls left unwashed.  Additionally, dander, dirt, fur, and possibly flea larva, will collect on beds, blankets, shrubs and the floor (carpet, dirt, concrete, etc.) if left unattended.  This creates a breeding ground for parasites, allergens, and other health hazards. A simple solution is to wash toys, bowls, and bedding regularly.  Keep his environment as clean as possible - free of dust/fur balls, debris, and bugs (including spiders).  And pick up all pet waste regularly, disposing of it in a waste bin away from your dog’s living area.

4.   Keep your dog groomed

Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to illness when they have poor hygiene.  Hygiene includes not only regular bathing but also trimming nails, cleaning eyes, ears and teeth, and regular brushing – keeping your dog’s fur free of mats and dander, and out of his eyes.  Ensuring your dog is not fighting any infections, or hosting fleas, ticks, or other parasites, will help keep him ready to fight any illness that comes his way.  

3.  Keep your dog social

Taking your dog out and about can have adverse effects, but the benefits outweigh the potential risks.  Exposing your dog to other dogs and new environments may or may not cause him to catch an illness, but it will help him build immunities regardless.  A dog living in a bubble (the backyard or your living room) will not have built up the antibodies he needs to fight infection if he should catch something.  Not to mention, such isolation can cause stress and depression, which weaken the immune system.  So despite the potential risk of catch a cold, don’t be afraid of letting your dog experience the world.      

2.       Give your dog regular exercise

The physical and psychological benefits of exercise are tremendous for a dog, and vital to their overall health.  Regular exercise strengthens the immune system and increases blood circulation.  It reduces the risk of heart disease and other illnesses, as well as a dog’s susceptibility to urinary infections.  It reduces or eliminates digestive problems as well as the chance of arthritis in senior years.  Exercise reduces stress and the likelihood of depression while helping a dog build confidence.  It keeps a dog from becoming obese which could result in depression and/or diabetes.  It calms hyperactive dogs and reduces boredom (and therefore bad behavior such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking).  And it reduces anxiety which may cause a dog to become aggressive or territorial. 

1.       Give your dog a well-balanced diet & supplements

A good diet is usually the first thing a vet will recommend for improving a dogs overall health, so do not underestimate the difference it can make.  A well-balanced diet with good meat and protein – low in preservatives, by-products, and grains (corn, wheat, soy) – will help your dog stay fit and ready to fight off illness.  Additionally, supplements can also help boost the immune system.  Neem oil helps boost T cell production, while vitamin C is a natural antiviral and antibiotic supplement.  Omega fatty acids – like Primrose oil, fish oil, and flaxseed oil – help with efficient digestion as well as the state of eyes, skin/coat, and internal organs. Dried beans – like kidney, pinto, and red beans – are natural antioxidants.  And Zinc supplements boost white cell production and promote fast healing of wounds. 

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 26^th, 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 27^th, 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!

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. 

   

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.