I’m watching The Weather Channel, waiting for the snow to reach us here in Canton, Ohio, and realizing that there is snow deep into the south, where they are not quite as used to it as we are. So, a few cold weather tips for you and your dog:
I know a lot of the US is receiving lots of snow and cold temperatures right now, and chances are that small ponds and lakes are frozen solid. BUT, you never know where the weak spots are. Several ice fishermen were just rescued in Minnesota today and in Wisconsin a few days ago. So, it’s time for my annual reminder to keep your dog away from the water. It’s no joke when they fall through the ice, even if the dog is normally a strong swimmer.
And please, if your dog does fall in, call the professionals to rescue him. You don’t need to fall in, too.
I don’t know about where you are, but here in Northeastern Ohio, it’s been in the 90’s most of the week. Two of my dogs love the heat, and I have to beg them to come inside to cool off. The other refuses to go out at all. How are you managing your dog in the hot weather?
If you had to call poison control for your dog, would you know the number off the top of your head? If there were a fire in your home, how would first responders know you have a pet? You can now solve both problems with the free Pet Safety Pack from the ASPCA.
Tomorrow I plan on turning on the A/C for the first time, so it’s time for a reminder about hot pavement. Remember, if you can’t comfortably walk on it barefoot, they can’t either.
Most of us who have minor children have a will or at least an oral understanding, specifying what will happen to the kids if we die prematurely. But what about your pets? Learn how you can protect their futures in the event you pass before they do. (A happy topic, to be sure!) Continue reading Planning for Your Pets’ Future→
BigStockPhotoTraveling for the holidays? If you’re taking your dog, it’s important that you follow some basic safety rules to keep your pet safe on the road.
First and foremost, restrain your dog whenever the vehicle is in motion. You wouldn’t let your kids ride without being buckled in, so why would you put your dog at the same risk? Crates are a great way to keep your dog contained and out of your way while you’re trying to concentrate on the road, but for long trips, that may seem a little cruel. Another option is to tether your dog with a seatbelt. It keeps the dog out of your personal space and prevents ejections in case of a wreck. Continue reading Vehicle Safety→
Desmond Tutu has been quoted as saying, “There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.”