Dog Friendly is Business Friendly

Recently, the Kennel Club in the UK awarded Helsbury Park with the Open to Dogs award. Helsbury Park in Cornwall is a luxury resort that, as the award tells us, is entirely open to our furry friends. Guests can – and are encouraged – to bring their dogs to the beautiful vacation spot. With dog friendly cottages, wide, open grounds, gorgeous walks, and beaches, this is dog paradise. And it’s fun for you too, of course. Little extras, like providing couch covers and doggie throw blankets, walk bags, and more show that Helsbury Park really does want you to enjoy your vacation with your whole family.

Being dog friendly is more than just great for families: it is great for business. The Kennel Club’s Caroline Kisko explains:

These are tough times for businesses but more and more people are seeing the benefits of reaching out to dog owners, who are always looking for somewhere that they can go with their dogs. It makes no sense to exclude customers who are happy to give you their business- especially when dogs actually enhance the appeal of a place, amongst dog owners and non dog owners alike.

We couldn’t agree more. More businesses are tapping into this customer base: good for business and good for dog owners. It is a win-win situation. If you go on vacation, why not look into ones that allow your dog to travel with you? You won’t have to pay kennel fees or worry if your dog is receiving good care while you are gone. Here are some tips to make sure a good time is had by all:

•Before booking your reservations, inquire what services and accommodations are provided. Some hotels and resorts merely allow dogs – and some may even have a weight limit. Others cater to them with walking services, play time, grooming, and other luxuries. Check ahead to make sure you get what you want.
•Make sure to have all shots and vaccinations up to date – and bring documentation with you.
•If you go out and the hotel or resort doesn’t offer doggie care, either bring your dog or put him in his crate. This gives him a sense of familiarity. It also helps when staff comes to do housekeeping; an unfamiliar person may upset your pet.
•Pack a bit of home with you. Your dog’s preferred food, dishes, a blanket, and some chew toys will help keep your dog entertained and will make him more at ease in a new environment.
•Clean up any messes your dog makes. While it is a pet friendly establishment, this is not the maid’s job. You wouldn’t expect the staff to clean up your child’s accidents, would you?

Bringing your pet with you on vacation can enhance the experience. It is always nice to travel with your best friend.

Cold Weather Walking Tips

The heat of summer is just a memory, and as the weather gets colder, there are some precautions we can take to make sure our furry friends are as comfortable as possible. No matter what size or breed your dog is, he most likely gets cold in the winter - yes, even the cold weather breeds, like huskies or malamutes. Even if we would all love to hibernate through the freezing temperatures, our pups need walks and exercise even in the winter. Here are some tips for making sure they get the exercise they need while staying as comfortable as possible:

• •Get your dog used to the temperature gradually. When fall approaches, keep going out for long walks and trips to the dog park. Do not let weather keep you inside because regular outings will help your dog acclimate to the weather.
• •If you have a greyhound, boxer, terrier or other dog with short hair, it is best to put a sweater or jacket on them to keep them comfortable. Cold weather can cause not only discomfort but also injury or illness. Some breeds, like miniature poodles or dachshunds, may not be able to go out at all on very cold days. Dogs with thicker coats still may need a coat in extreme temperatures. Look for those which cover both the back and the belly so heat is retained in the core.
• •Do not neglect your dog’s feet. You wouldn’t dream of going outside on icy, snowy sidewalks without your boots, so do the same for your dog. If he lifts his paws, whines, or appears to be walking gingerly, he probably needs boots. Many dogs are extremely sensitive to cold on their paws, and ice and salt build up can cause discomfort and injury. Boots can be very useful to keep buildup from forming.
• You can also use Vaseline or cooking oil on the bottom of your dog’s paws to protect them. When you are done your walk, brush off his paws to remove salt, which can be very irritating. You can also try waxes which are available at many pet stores.
• •You may have to limit time outside on very cold days, but you should get in one good walk to release pent-up energy. Both of you should bundle up.
• •Watch what you are feeding your dog during the winter months. Many want to eat more, but because they are typically receiving less physical activity, they can gain weight. Consider cutting back their portions if they are not exercising as much.

If you’re cold, your dog is likely feeling chilly as well. A thick winter coat is sometimes not enough to keep him warm, so make sure that you listen to his cues to ensure that he is comfortable.

Tips on Choosing the Best Duds for your Pup

There is no question that pet owners love their furry (or scaly or feathered) friends; pets provide us with unconditional love, joy, and let us glimpse at pure happiness when we scratch behind their ears. Whenever we can do anything to show them how much we appreciate them – and to do something practical for their health and safety – it is well worth it. Dog clothes are one way we can help keep our favorite pals warm, happy, and of course, stylish. Here are some tips for choosing the right clothes for your dog:

First, make sure you get the right size so your dog is comfortable. To measure correctly, use a tape measure to determine the distance from the base of the collar to where the tail joins the body when your dog is standing. Also measure around the widest point of your pup – which will be behind the front legs. It can hard to estimate sizes – even when you are shopping for yourself! Take a few minutes to do this so you can make sure whatever item you choose fits properly, doesn’t slip off, impede movement, or constrict breathing.

Many dogs need clothes for colder months to prevent chills, discomfort, and joint pain. Even larger, furrier breeds, like Huskies, may need coats in extremely cold temperatures. You can find dog clothes in a number of sizes and styles, and if you need warmth, choose fleeces or wool blends. If they are pretreated, they will not shrink, and they are light-weight, durable, and washable.

Some dogs chew. You may have tried every trick in the book, but they just love chewing. If you have a chewer, clothes may not be for him. If you want to give it a try anyway, choose clothing without flashy embellishments, sparkles, or buttons. This will invite the dog to chew away. Stay with solid colors. Also if the clothing is properly fitted and made with soft fabric, it should cut down on chewing.

When you buy your children clothes, you know that they need to be washable because kids are guaranteed to get them dirty. It is the same with dogs. Choose fabrics that are machine washable. Also, if you are going to be upset with a spot of dirt or grass stains, choose darker colors that will not show spots as readily.

Make sure the clothing you choose is easy to get on and easy to get off. Dogs will not sit still for ten minutes as you try to figure out the buttons or zippers. For instance, you should be able to slip on his winter coat before going for a walk without taking a huge chunk out of your outdoor time.

The most important tip is to listen to your pet when choosing his clothes. Take into consideration his personality. For instance, if your dog loves to sit and snuggle, maybe a warm, fuzzy fleece will be perfect. If he loves his walk, even in the rain, try a great raincoat. If he likes to watch sports with you, get a jersey. There are a host of options, and you can find comfortable, well-fitting options in a number of styles.

Most of all, listen to him if he is telling you that the clothing is uncomfortable. If he is scratching at it, biting at it, or seems not to enjoy it, take it off! It may as simple as finding a different fabric or fit. Maybe he doesn’t like the stripes you put on him. In any case, if he doesn’t like it, take it off. You can try again later.

The selection of dog clothes is only growing; you are sure to find the perfect fit for you and your pup.