1st Week of Summer: Take your dog to work day

What comes to mind when you think of summer?  For most people, the season brings back a nostalgic feeling of freedom.  Growing up, it was the time you were carefree; no school, no homework, just days of play and three whole months of vacation.  Even as an adult, summer is still the time to slow down, relax a little more, and enjoy your free time a little more.

June 21^st is the official start of summer and Southern California has plenty to offer when it comes to dog-friendly activities.  So why not go try new things, start a tradition, or just enjoy the beautiful weather with your four-legged best friend?

This week, the first day of summer happens to fall on the same day as “Take your dog to work day.”

Take your dog to work day was first celebrated in 1999.  It was created by Pet Sitters International to celebrate great companion dogs and to help encourage their adoption.  If your workplace doesn’t celebrate yet, now is the time to get involved.

The first step to bringing your dog to work is convincing your boss or HR manager to let you do so.  For help in this area, go to the official ‘Take your dog to work Day’ website and download the TYDTWDay Action Pack.  This pack and the website are full of information to share with those in charge, along with ideas to help you plan your first successful TYDTW Day.  It will help you address concerns, such as building codes and co-worker dog allergies, and give you pointers on avoiding problems the day of. 

Another way to convince the boss is by sharing the benefits of celebrating the day.  ‘Take your dog to work day’ provides the unique opportunity to increase community involvement by partnering with a local animal shelter, rescue group, or humane society.  It is also a low-cost perk for employees who may have experienced pay cuts or other decreases in benefits. 

And if those reasons aren’t enough, try sharing some cold, hard facts.  In 2006, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that:

• Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. companies allow pets in the workplace.
• 55 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment
• 50 million believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better
• 38 million believe having pets in the workplace creates a more productive work environment
• 37 million believe having pets in the workplace helps improve the relationship between managers and their employees

Everyone may jump on board or you may have to take baby steps and try again next year.  But even if you are not allowed to bring your dog to work, there are other ways to celebrate at work, like having a fundraiser for a local animal rescue, or a pet photo contest, or dog themed luncheon (with hotdogs and bone-shaped cookies).  For these and other great ideas on how to prep for and celebrate ‘Take your dog to work day’, check out the official website.  Whatever you end up doing, enjoy the first day of summer with you pup!

Moving with Pets

Moving is a stressful time for us humans, but it can be even worse for our dogs.  Dogs need stability to feel secure, so moving can seriously upset them.  Add your moving anxiety on top of that and you have a very unsettled dog acting out of the ordinary. 

Many people put great effort into helping their children understand why they have to pack up all of their things and leave all of their friends behind when they move.  Have you ever tried doing the same thing with your dog to help ease the transition?  Here are a few ideas to help you:

1.        A happy & soothing voice - Any dog owner would tell you that their dog understands what they are saying. The dog may not get every single word, but he gets the gist of it.  For that reason, you should sit down with your dog and tell him what is going on.  Keep your voice positive and try to get him use to the words moving, new home, and packing. Try to keep your emotions neutral when talking to him, especially if the move is hard or emotional for you; he will pick up on that. Try to be encouraging and positive when he sees his things being packed up as well.  

2.     A familiar and secure space - Dogs originally slept in dens. So naturally, they tend to like squeezing into small spaces that help them feel secure. For this reason, dog crates come in handy as it is a den-like place that the dog is familiar with and can move with him. If your dog is not crate trained or has no personal space to call his own, you may consider getting one before you move (so he has time to get comfortable with it). Put a few of his things and some treats in there to help him get acquainted with it.  His crate (or personal space) should be the last thing to leave the old house and the first thing in the new house to help him adjust.

3.     An early visit - If you can, visit your new home with your dog before you move.  Even if you can’t go inside, let him sniff around outside and go for a walk around the neighborhood. He can get use to the smells of your new home and the surrounding area.  You can give him periodic treats to make it an even more positive experience. Also, if possible, leave one of his toys at the property so he can make a positive association with it when you come back.

4.     An old toy & a new one - While you may want to get all new dog toys, bowls, and beds to go with the new homes décor, don’t be so quick to throw out your dog’s old things. To him, they are the only familiar thing in an unfamiliar place, and as such, they will bring him comfort.  Instead, bring his old bed, bowls, and toys to the new house along with a couple of new toys (a reward for moving).  Then as you settle in your new home, replace his doggie belongings slowly, giving him time to adjust to each new item.  

5.     Odds and Ends – If you are cleaning or painting your new home, be aware of the harsh chemicals and fumes in the air that can be harmful to you and your dog.  If you can, put your dog in a safe place outside where he can get fresh air until you are finished.  And whether he is inside or out, always ensure plenty of ventilation while cleaning or painting.  If it is too stressful for your pup to be around, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask a friend or family member to watch your dog for a day or two.  Or, if they are not available, find a local pet sitter or dog daycare that can help.  They may also come in handy for the first few weeks after the move, if your pup is acting out (having trouble adjusting). A few extra dollars spent on pet care is much better than having to replace the carpet or any ruined furniture.   

Dog-Friendly Memorial Day Getaway

While Memorial weekend tends to signify the start of Summer, we cannot ignore the true reason for Memorial Day, which is to honor those who have died while serving in the United States Military. 

Fun Fact: Memorial Day is a federal holiday that started after the Civil War, to commemorate all the soldiers who died.  By the 20^th century Memorial Day had expanded to include all Americans who died while in the military.  

Those brave men and women who died while in service were fighting for our freedom, so we can continue to enjoy life as we know it. This weekend should be taken as time to enjoy that freedom, spend time with loved ones, and give thanks to those who have fought (and still fight) for us.

What better way to do all those things then to go on a weekend getaway to San Diego? This Dog-friendly city has plenty to offer by way of whole-family entertainment, and there is a naval base in Coronado.   There is hiking, dog beaches, countless parks, restaurants, great places to stay, and lots of outdoor events going on this weekend.

Because Coronado has a naval base, we will focus these trip ideas on areas in main San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter) and Coronado. Of course, feel free to customize your own San Diego visit, as there are numerous dog-friendly options all over the county.

Great dog-friendly places to stay include Westin Horton Plaza in San Diego , the Crown City Inn and the Loews Coronado Bay Resort , both in Coronado.  Coronado is a small and expensive island, so if these hotels are already booked or are perhaps out of your price range, simply Google ‘dog friendly San Diego hotels’ and Trip Advisor or a similar travel site will give you plenty of other options.

The most dog-friendly places to eat include Point Loma Seafood and Terra, both in San Diego, as well as Café 1134 in Coronado and Market Café which is in the Loews Coronado Bay Resort.  And there are lots of dog-friendly places in the Gaslamp Quarter to grab a bite, like G5 (Gerorges on Fifth), Royal India, and Trattoria La Strada.  

Now that we have a place to stay and places to eat, let’s go find something to do.  What better thing to do in San Diego than go to the beach?!  The best dog beaches include Dog Beach and Fiesta Island in San Diego and Coronado Central Beach in Coronado.  Of course, there is plenty to see just walking around Gaslamp Quarter  or even Old Town San Diego.  If you are in the mood for some dog-friendly shopping, check out Otay Ranch Town Center in Chula Vista.  Not only does it have dog-friendly shops, this mall has a dog park too.  And if you’re in the mood for something different, go for a gondola ride with A Gondola Company while visiting Coronado.  And lastly, San Diego has a plethora of events going on this Saturday and Sunday, from a soap box derby to a strawberry festival, so check it out and see what fun new things you can discover with your pup on your Memorial Day getaway.

 

 

9 Ways to Avoid a Dog Bite

 Did you Know.....
….around 5 million Americans are bitten every year by a dog and 83% are children?
….50% of all U.S. children will be bitten by a dog before their 12th birthday?
….Each year 800,000 bite injuries are severe enough to require medical attention?

These statistics point out one major problem in the U.S. and it is a lack of dog bite prevention education and responsible dog ownership.

To raise awareness for this perpetual public health problem, the U.S. Postal Service and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) joined forces along with other organizations to promote National Dog Bite Prevention Week during the third week of May each year. And although this week has brought about an increase in awareness, there are still dog bites happening every day, which only demonstrate the need for greater awareness and education efforts nationwide.

A common misconception among people is that because they are around a certain dog a lot they assume that dog must like and feel comfortable around them. But dogs have their own rules of etiquette and they give lots of body language they people don't pick up on, which leads to an "out of the blue" dog bite. And because children are so close to the dog’s size, their bites are usually worse on the face or neck.

“Even the gentlest dog, if it is physically or mentally unhealthy, is in pain, feels threatened, or is protecting its food or a favorite toy, can bite,” Dr. Gail C. Golab, director of the AVMA’s Animal Welfare Division said. “Not only is it important to understand how dogs behave, it is important to understand how our behavior may be interpreted by a dog. To prevent dog bites, we need to find a common language. Finding that common language is the focus of effective dog bite prevention educational efforts.”
So what can you do to avoid being bitten by the next dog you encounter?

1. Watch an educational video - A great tool for children, and adults alike, is this educational video produced by the AKC to help kids avoid being bitten by a dog. It is highly recommended that all parents watch this video with their kids and encourage your schools to show the video to each class as well.
2. Greet a dog the proper way - When meeting or greeting an unfamiliar dog, first ask the owner if the dog is friendly and then ask for permission to pet the dog. You should then ask the dog for permission to pet him or her by letting the dog sniff the back of your hand before petting.
3. Always pet a new dog under the chin, on the shoulder or on the chest, but never on their head first. A dog may misinterpret a person leaning over them as a dominant behavior and feel threatened.
4. Don't run past or away from a dog - The dog's natural instinct is to chase and catch prey.
5. Avoid eye contact - Dogs interpret this as a challenge. If a dog threatens you, don't scream. Try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.
6. Don't approach a strange dog, especially one that's tethered or confined.
7. Do not tease a dog behind a fence or tethered in a yard.
8. Do not touch or play with a dog that is eating or sleeping.
9. Be a tree trunk - If you believe a dog is about to attack you, try to place something between yourself and the dog, such as a backpack or a bicycle. Otherwise, you should stand still “Like a tree trunk” with your arms crossed over your chest (closed fists). If you or your child should fall to the ground, you should curl into a ball, with your knees to your chest and your fingers interlocked covering the back of your neck. If you stay still, the dog will most likely sniff you, loose interest and leave you alone.

Education has to start with children not only to stop kids for getting bitten but to plant a seed for future responsible pet owners that will break the cycle. Check out the AKC website to view the video or to order a free copy for your school or community group. They also provide a workbook for kids to go over after the video to ensure they understood what they learned.

Mother's Day for Dog Moms

 

When we think of a mother, we most often think of the woman who brought us into this world and raised us.  For some people, the woman who brought them into the world may not be the same woman who raised them. 

The definition of Mother, as a verb, is "to bring up a child with care and affection".  So being a mother isn't just about bringing a child into the world.  It's about the day-to-day care a woman gives to a child that defines her as a mother.

Do you know any women who refer to themselves as their dog's mom?  Many of today's dog owners consider themselves a pet parent (rather than dog owner), since they have a dog at home rather than children, and they give their dogs the day-to-day care one would give a child.  So it's no wonder that Mother's Day is beginning to include devoted dog moms.

These dog moms put a lot of energy and love into their dog's well-being and they deserve a little recognition for it. 

If you have a dog mom in your life, here are a couple of ideas on how to give her a little extra attention this Mother's Day:

 

Breakfast- Surprise her with breakfast in bed (or at the table if she prefers)

Card- Make her feel special with a thoughtful card. They sell adorable animal Mother's Day cards at pet stores.

Brunch- Enjoy an outdoor brunch with her and her fur baby

Relax- Let her relax by taking care of the house work and all dog related activities (such as feeding). 

Quality Time- Plan an activity that includes the fur baby, such as a family hike or day at the dog beach.

Lady's Choice- Let her make all the decisions for the day - from activities to food choices.

Flowers- Most women love getting flowers, whatever the occasion.

 

 

Celebrate Earth Day with your dog

We all want to give back to the Earth, if not regularly then at least once a year.  And what better day to do it on then Earth Day? 

Earth day was founded by United States Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970.  It is now celebrated in 192 countries with over 1 billion participants, making it the largest civic observance in the world. 

So how can you get involved and have fun with your dog at the same time?

5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with your Dog

1.      Start buying and using biodegradable poop bags- The bags decompose in about the same amount of time as an apple. 

2.      Recycle by donating to a rescue or animal shelter- Instead of throwing out old blankets or sheets, donate them to a local rescue or shelter (of course, please wash them first).  One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and shelters are always grateful for donations.  Your old newspapers may also be appreciated since they are used as cage liner.  Check out the Riverside Animal Shelter’s wish list. 

3.      Make a toy out of an old sock (or a sock missing its mate)- “Making a toy out of an old household product is a great way to re-use rather than consume”-Cesar Millan.  If you need help making your own dog toy, visit Make-and-Build-Dog-Stuff.com.

4.      Cook your dog a natural, holistic meal-  Eating organic is good for your health, your dog’s health, and the planet.  Need Recipe ideas? Check out easydogrecipes.com If you don’t have time to cook a meal for your dog you can change your dog’s food to a more holistic food, without low-grade animal by-products and preservatives.  Do this by avoiding food with meat by-product, wheat (or grain), corn (or corn meal), or gluten. Check out DogFoodScoop.com to further understand dog food labels and all other dog food questions.

5.      Go Chemical Free- Buy and use household cleaning products that are chemical free.  This is not only healthier for you and your pets but also reduces the amount of harmful runoff into our ground and water sources.  Instead of using bleach to clean you can use vinegar and water, “It’s a green alternative that removes odor and kills mold and bacteria” –BestFriends.org.  In addition, you can buy and use pet shampoos, conditioners, and other grooming products that are biodegradable and do not contain harmful pesticides or chemicals. 

For more ways to celebrate Earth Day while helping animals in need, check out The Best Friends Network.  Or, check out the Earth Day Network for more opportunities to take part in Earth Day activities in your community.

Pet Expo this Weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend?  Well you’re in luck because the pet expo is coming to town!  Not just any pet expo, America’s Family Pet Expo, which means dogs, cats, birds, fish, hamsters, bunnies, and more.  It’s sure to be a fun-filled weekend for you and the other pet lovers in your life. 

Due to its long and slightly awkward title, this expo has adopted a couple of other names such as The Original Pet Expo and the OC Pet Expo, but rest assured, they are all the same the event.  Taking place at the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, the fun kicks off Friday morning at 10 a.m. and goes until Sunday night at 6 p.m.

Each day is identical, as far as the schedule of events and exhibits, so you don’t have to worry about missing anything regardless of the day you visit.  And there is no shortage of things to see or do at this expo.  There will be Dog and Cat breed exhibits and presentations, dog training and grooming demonstrations, bird and exotic animal education and presentations, as well as fish, llama, bunny, and guinea pig presentations.  The events are sure to entertain with Splash Dogs, Wiener Races, Repticon Reptile Show, Free Flight Bird Show, Hamster Judging, Police Dog Demo, and more.   And there will be plenty of activities for the whole family such as human hamster balls, face painting, Win a Beta Fish toss, petting zoo, and pony rides. And of course, there will be pets available for adoption, so be prepared to fall in love. 

 

In addition to the events and exhibits, patrons can check out the Kid’s Aquarium Contest in the Fish section of the Expo.  In this competition, kids are encouraged to explore their creative side and design an aquarium that reflects their personality.  After submitting their aquarium creations, a ten gallon aquarium kit is donated for each contestant.   Each contestant then gets the opportunity to bring his or her creation to life by putting together a fully-functioning, personalized aquarium.  The kids are also taught about aquatic care and responsible pet ownership.  At the end of the expo, each kid (contestant) gets to take his or her aquarium home with a ribbon.   This contest encourages creativity while cultivating self-esteem and responsibility through a fun and educational experience.   Children ages 5 - 16 are encouraged to enter.  And although the contest is already closed for this year’s expo, it may be something to keep in mind for your child at next year’s expo.  Check out the America’s Family Pet Expo website for more information.   

So be sure to stop in and check out the pet expo this weekend at the OC Fairgrounds, located at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa.  Parking is $5 per vehicle, General Admission is $13, Seniors are $11, Children 6 – 12 are $8, Children 5 & under are free, and Active or Retired Military with valid ID are free as well (but that does not include dependents).  The fun begins Friday, April 19^th, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and continues on Saturday, April 20^th, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and wraps up on Sunday, April 21^st, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.  For more information, including directions and a time schedule, check out the America’s Family Pet Expo website.