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Frightening Fireworks on the Fourth!!!

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fireworks1That’s what some dogs think.  Fireworks can really freak some dogs out!  What to do?  Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Consider trying a Thundershirt or similar form-fitting product.  The swaddling effect can be quite soothing and relaxing to some dogs.
  2. Download audio of storms and fireworks, and start to get your dog used to the sounds.  Begin with the volume low and keep your dog busy.  Gradually increase the volume to teach your dog to better handle the unpleasant sound.  Always end each training session on a positive note – with your dog able to calmly function and not freak out – even if you need lower the volume to end a session.  Multiple short sessions repeated frequently are MUCH  better than long sessions less often.
  3. Keep your dog busy – if you can.  DO NOT hug, hold and coddle, as this will be interpreted as praise for his nervousness.  Instead, give him some jobs.  Review some commands he knows or play a game of fetch or hide & seek.  Keeping his mind busy will help him to relax and not worry.  And if you can’t…
  4. Ignore completely – just behave as if nothing is happening.  YOU want to set the example that fireworks and the accompanying loud noises are no big deal.
  5. If you have to leave your dog alone make sure you have provided an environment as SAFE as possible for YOUR dog!  Sometimes fear can cause destruction, and we don’t want any dogs to get hurt.
  6. Make sure your dog has had an appropriate amount of exercise earlier in the day.  Exercise helps to relax.
  7. If reactions are severe, talk to your vet about a little help.  There are lots of options: holistic, homeopathic or prescription.  I like natural options whenever possible, but serious cases may need something else.  If you feel the need to go this route please consult a professional in that field.  We want nothing but the best for your dog!

On the bright side (haha), this too shall pass:)fireworks3

Happy early 4th of July!

Stacie & Ronan

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Work Your Dog’s What???

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CORE!

Ronan prepping for balance ballJust as we humans can benefit from a strong core, so can our dogs!  Start slow (and low) to build your dog’s confidence and balance.  You must assist your dog until he starts to get the hang of it.

You can use a child’s ball (like the one Paige is on) or a human balance ball (like the one Paige happy on balance ballRonan is on).  If you can inflate or deflate the ball you can experiment to find the level that is best for a beginner and make it more challenging as your dog’s skill level improves.

Ronan on the ballHave fun but always keep it safe.  A beginner can seriously injure a leg, rib or other body part without the proper support.  Check with your vet to make sure your dog is up for the challenge!  Trying something new like this can stimulate body and mind – for both of you!

Start slowly and keep it safe!Ronan & Paige on ball

Stacie & Ronan

 

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Where Are You Taking Your Dog???

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old dog friends

Stacie & Barbara

Last weekend a friend from PA came to visit and we attended an awesome event in the city on Pier 26.  The event, called the Liberty Challenge, is where teams of paddlers on outriggers come from all over the world to compete in races – some 15 miles long! Though the Liberty Challenge has been going on in NYC for 20 years, I had never been, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.

My friend (an amazing groomer I’ve known for over 20 years) suggested that I bring Ronan.  Now, most of you who know me know that I love to bring Ronan to events.  He is pretty easy and adaptable, and always enjoys being social.  But I declined.

Paige being groomed

Babs grooming Paige

I’m glad that I did.  He would’ve done just fine, but I felt badly for the dogs that would’ve been better left at home.  It’s great to bring our dogs with us to events, but we should always think above and beyond what we want and consider what’s best for them, even if we err on the side of extra caution.  I wasn’t sure how hot the pavement would be, if there would be any shade, if the crowds or acoustics might be too overwhelming, and most of all, if it would be a good experience for Ronan, or if he’d be better off at home.

Amazing team

The Liberty Challenge

Don’t be afraid to be too cautious when it comes to the care and safety of your dogs.  Ronan would have enjoyed the Liberty Challenge, but I’m glad that I didn’t bring him.  It would’ve ruined the day for all of us if I brought him and it turned out to be the wrong choice.

As much as you enjoy having your dogs with you, please don’t take chances by making a potentially selfish decision.  I know how much your love your dogs.  Please put their safety first!

XO,

Stacie & Ronan

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Dog Parks – Good or Bad???

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dogs at play

PROS:

socialization

running

playing in a securely fenced area

burning off extra energy

seeing/making new friends (both of you)

CONS:dogs sniffing at dog park 2

possible spread of parasites/illnesses

potential for dog fights

SOME owners not watching their dogs

SOME owners bringing dogs who should not be there

potential for injury

 

dog park snarlThe bottom line is, YOU need to decide what is right for YOUR dog.  Not all dogs play nicely with other dogs.  Some dogs would rather spend time with their humans.  Some dogs simply DO NOT ENJOY IT!  Other dogs do very well and enjoy the socialization.  Some find it to be a wonderful outlet for a dog to release some pent up energy. Some find it a great opportunity for their dogs to play in a fenced-in area.

 

IF you decide to take your dog to a dog park, please play by the rules for the health and safety of everyone.  Watch your dog closely and Dogs at dog parkirrupt/redirect ANY type of behavior that could be escalating towards trouble.  Remove dogs that are picking on or being picked on.  A dog fight is easier to avoid than break up!  Have your dog’s stool sample checked at least twice yearly if he visits dog parks.

Play safe and have fun!

Stacie & Ronan