Tag: safety

  • 10 tips for staying in hotels with dogs

    10 tips for staying in hotels with dogs

    Even if you travel all the time, you know that staying in hotels with dogs can get really stressful! There is just so much that can go wrong, that it’s easy to be on edge leading up to your trip. Before you start planning your getaway, be sure and ask yourself a few questions. Once you ask those and prepare yourself for what may be to come, you will be more prepared for your trip. 

    What questions should you be asking yourself? Well, things like “Will they welcome my dog?” “Will my dog behave?” “Are there rules specific toward canine visitors?” are great things to know before you head out. Having the answers to these questions can help make your trip a more stress free one. 

     

    10 tips for staying in hotels with dogs

    Following these tips will help ensure you have a good trip with your furry friend!

     

    Call ahead

    I know that many people think dogs should be allowed anywhere. Unfortunately, they are not. A simple phone call or even a Google search can give you the answer as to whether or not you can bring your dog with you. 

    You may be tempted to, but don’t leave it up to chance. Just call the hotel ahead and make sure that dogs are welcome. It’s okay if they are not, there will be other hotels that welcome your dog. Do not, under any circumstances, try and sneak your pet into the hotel with you. First of all, that’s just not cool. Second, you can be kicked out and then what will you do?

    Some hotels may have size or breed restrictions. You should also check to see if they have any other requirements. For example, you may need to keep your dog in a crate if you are leaving your room. So, make sure that you pack everything that may be needed. 

     

    Think about your dog’s preferences

    Your dog likely has preferences and even triggers. Make sure the hotel that you are booking is something you think your dog will be comfortable with. If your dog is used to quiet and outdoors, look for a hotel that is a bit more spacious with outdoor space. If your dog is a social butterfly, you may feel a little more comfortable to book a room in a busy, more urban hotel. 

     

    Think about your preferences

    Yes, you want your dog to be comfortable, but you need to be comfortable too! No one wants to stay in a hotel they hate. Am I right?

     

    Find out what the hotel offers

    Okay, so yes you have confirmed that your dog is allowed but exactly how dog friendly is the hotel? Some hotels are comfortable saying that dogs are welcome, but some hotels are very, very dog friendly. Some hotels offer dog beds, food bowls and more. Double check so you know what to expect. 

     

    Make sure your room has easy outdoor access

    Before your trip, be sure to call and find out what room you will be getting and be sure and request a room that allows you to have easy access to the outdoors so your doggy potty trips aren’t a big production. 

     

    Make sure your dog is properly trained

    This one should be a given, but let’s talk about it anyway. When hotels allow dogs to stay, they are making the assumption that your dog is house trained and will not be having accidents in the room. Make sure that your dog is fully trained before you take them to stay anywhere. 

    Additionally, make sure that they are well socialized. A hotel is going to have other people in it, and likely other dogs. If you are taking your dog, be sure that they are well behaved around other people and pets. 

     

    Pack food, treats, toys, and blankets

    To keep your dog happy, be sure to bring a blanket or two at home, so your dog can have a comfortable item with the smells of home. Also be sure to bring along your dog’s regular food, treats, and toys with you. 

    Also, don’t forget their food and water dishes too (these collapsible travel ones are my fave!).

     

    Go for a walk

    As soon as you get to the hotel, grab the leash and head out for a walk! This will get your dog the exercise and fresh air that they need, plus it will get them more comfortable with their surroundings. 

     

    Stick to a routine

    Do you have a routine at home? If your dog is used to a routine, be sure and follow it while you are at a hotel. If your dog is used to going outside to potty at 5:30 am, then be sure and be ready to head out at 5:30. Dog’s don’t care that you are on vacation. They need their structure. 

     

    Don’t leave your dog alone

    Do not, under any circumstances, leave your dog alone in the hotel room unless you are 100% sure that your dog is happy to have you leave. Dogs can be very destructive when they are anxious and trust me, you do not want your dog damaging a hotel room. 

     

    These tips will definitely help keep your trip low stress and enjoyable!

  • Tips for hiking with your dog

    Tips for hiking with your dog

    Do you like to hike? Hiking is a great way to exercise and a wonderful way to enjoy the nature that is surrounding us! It’s simply beautiful out there. It makes perfect sense to want to bring your dog along on your hiking adventures. You know how much you love experiencing all of the sights and sounds around you, so just imagine your sweet pup experiencing that as well. 

    Before you hit the trail with your dog though, you need to be sure that you are ready. Just like you need to be sure that you are prepared for a hike, you need to make sure that you prepare for your dog to get out there too. You need to be sure that you have all of the right supplies and equipment for a safe and successful hike. 

     

    Tips for hiking with your dog

    Dogs are the best kind of companion on every given day, but they are an exceptionally wonderful outdoor companion. They are always willing and excited to head out on the trail with you. The health benefits that you both experience from these adventures are an added bonus. 

    There are several considerations that you need to think about before you head out though in order to have the best trip you can.

     

    Train your dog

    Do not. I repeat, DO NOT head out on the trail with an untrained dog. I understand that you can’t train them for the trail before you hit the trail, but at least be sure that they know basic commands such as “sit” and “stay” before you head out. 

    A few other training commands to work on are “leave it” to prevent dogs from eating or messing with anything hazardous that you may find on trail and “quiet” to prevent excess barking.

    While most places do have leash laws, your dog should still have a strong recall and “come” whenever you call. This is very important in case your dog manages to get away from you. It is even more important if you are letting your dog run around without a leash. 

     

    Know the hiking etiquette when hiking with your dog

    There are etiquette rules when it comes to hitting the trail with dogs, and these rules are very important. Check out this to-do list of etiquette rules to follow when taking your dog out hiking:

    • Make sure the trail you are going on allows dogs. Not all trails are dog friendly and that’s okay. If dogs aren’t allowed on the trail, there is a good reason for it, oftentimes for your dog’s safety. You may find that you need to leave your pup home for this hike, or change your destination.
    • Keep your dog on a leash. While some trails are technically leash optional, keeping your dog leashed is always a good idea. You never know when you might encounter wildlife that your dog can’t help but chase and it’s important to avoid doing any damage to the habitat off trail (which can happen from your dog simply stepping off trail). 
    • Clean up your pet’s waste. You may think that wildlife does its business outdoors, why can’t your dog, but I assure you, you need to be prepared to clean up your dog’s waste on the trail. Be sure to bring pet waste bags with you when you go. Dog waste can bring disease and pollution to the trail and this is a very important part of being a responsible pet owner and hiker. And if it’s a popular trail, other people may not appreciate having to watch where they step.
    • Be sure that you can always see your dog. You don’t want them getting lost or falling down somewhere. 

     

    Make sure your dog is healthy enough for a hike

    You should already be making sure to take your dog to regular visits with the vet, but making sure your dog is healthy enough to hike is key for a good experience. While getting a health check up, be sure to ask if your dog’s breed is a good one for hiking long trails (not all of them are). Also, be sure to talk to the vet about the best options for flea and tick prevention. 

    Also, like people, dogs need to ease into exercise. Your dog won’t tell you if they are injured or tired so you should be mindful when hiking. The last thing you want is to have to try and carry your large dog back home because they overexerted themselves (we speak from experience). 

     

    Bring the necessary equipment

    You may think that you can just head on out and hike, but the reality is that yes, there is equipment needed when hiking with your dog. 

     

    Understand that it won’t always go perfectly

    When you first start hiking with your dog, things likely will not go perfectly smoothly. Just like with any other activity you decide to take on with your pet, it’s going to require a learning curve. I have no doubt that it will be a success, but you just have to put some time and effort into it. 

    Also, there are a few more things to remember while you are out there:

    • Not everyone on the trail likes dogs or likes to see dogs on the trail, so don’t force interaction.
    • Not all dogs on the trail are friendly. Be sure to keep your dog from running up to others.
    • There are lots of things on the trail that can get lost in your dog’s coat. Consider bathing them when you get back home to remove it all. And be sure to check for ticks.

    Happy hiking, friends!

  • Camping with your dog: Tips to make your trips go smoothly

    Camping with your dog: Tips to make your trips go smoothly

    Are you a camping enthusiast? Who do you like to camp with? If you are like most dog owners that I know, you probably want to make sure your camping trips include your canine companion! Spending time with your dog is always enjoyable, but spending time outdoors with your dog will be a whole new kind of fun! You can learn a lot about your dog while being outdoors. You can get a real idea of just how curious and inquisitive they are. And you might also be surprised to find out just how much energy they really have. Spending this kind of time together with your dog can help you to strengthen your bond. 

    Additionally, camping trips with your dog are actually quite good for you too! Being outside with your dog will encourage you to be more active, it can help you learn more about outdoor skills and frankly, it’s fun for you too!

     

    Tips that will help trips away camping with your dog go smoothly

    Following these tips will help your camping trip stay successful and fun!

     

    Prepare in advance

    Perhaps the single most important thing you can do to make a camping trip with your dog go smoothly is to prepare for it accordingly. For starters, create a to-do list of things to do before you go. This list should include the following:

    • Research the dog rules for the campground. The rules you want to look out for include leash requirements, dog barking ordinances, breed restrictions, and aggressive dog rules.
    • Schedule an appointment with your vet. Be sure to schedule an appointment with the vet to be sure that your dog is in good health, up to date on all vaccinations, and is properly protected against fleas and ticks. Additionally, be sure and get your dog microchipped if they aren’t already. Being in a new location can cause confusion for your pet, making it easier for them to get lost, a microchip can help keep them safe.
    • Schedule an appointment with your groomer. A freshly groomed dog can better keep their temperature regulated outdoors. Additionally, it’s important to have their nails trimmed to prevent them getting snagged on anything. 
    • Research for emergencies. You should find where the nearest emergency animal hospital will be and keep the address and phone number handy. The last thing that you want to do is start searching for numbers in case something happens.

     

    Pack well

    Camping with dogs means packing differently than you may be used to. When packing for a camping trip with your dog, be sure to include the following items on your list:

    • Dog food and bowl—it’s best to pack extra food
    • Treats—bring lots of treats to reward your dog for listening (don’t worry all the exercise will burn the extra calories)
    • Water (if your camping location doesn’t have water, be sure to pack extra for your dog) and bowl
    • Dog waste bags
    • Dog first aid kit
    • Medication, if needed
    • Tether and stake
    • Leashes—it’s good idea to bring a variety of leashes in different lengths
    • Extra collars and/or harnesses—just in case your regular one breaks (make sure your phone number is on them)
    • Extra towels
    • Vet/vaccination records
    • A recent photo of your dog
    • A flea comb and tick removal tool—even if your dog is taking protection, it’s still a good idea to do a thorough check daily
    • Life jacket—you may want to consider this if you are bringing your dog on the water for the first time
    • Crate—If you have to leave your dog unattended, you may need to crate them
    • Dog bed and/or blanket

     

    Bring lots of toys

    Be sure to bring plenty of your dog’s favorite toys with you on your camping trip. This will help keep your dog from getting bored, as simply being outdoors will likely not keep them stimulated. And you probably want to leave those fluffy or fuzzy toys at home and stick with something waterproof and easily cleanable. 

     

    Avoid leaving you dog unattended

    When camping, it is important to never leave your dog unattended. This is not your dog’s normal home, it is unfamiliar territory and you simply don’t know how your dog may react to it. He or she may be the most well-behaved dog ever, but when they are scared or confused, you may find yourself experiencing unfamiliar behavior or dogs running off. (Or that strange critter is just too tempting not to chase.) Making sure to stay with your dog at all times will help prevent these situations from happening. 

    It’s also advisable to bring leashes of different lengths. If you are in a crowded area (or depending on the local rules), you may only be able to use a standard 4–6′ leash. But if you are more secluded, you could have a very long leash that will give your dog more freedom to explore. You can also allow your dog to drag the leash to give him/her a sense of freedom but it’s easily grabbable in case they start exploring too much. Ideally, you have been working on your recalls with your dog and this will be a great chance to practice (remember to bring those treats).  

     

    Do a trial run before heading on a long camping trip with your dog

    Before heading out to your camping trip, take your dog on a trial run first. You can do this by going on a longer walk, heading to the forest for a day, or simply staying outside all day and seeing how your dog reacts. Additionally, working on socialization (with dogs and people) is a plus. Many campgrounds get busy, so you want to be sure that your dog isn’t nervous around unfamiliar people and animals. 

     

    Keep a routine even when camping with your dog

    Even though you are having this camping adventure, try and keep your routine as closely matched to your life at home as possible. For instance, if your dog sleeps in a kennel, be sure to bring your kennel. If your dog sleeps next to your bed at home, be sure and bring a dog bed for him to place in the tent with you. This will help your dog to be more comfortable and will prevent confusion and feelings of overwhelm in your dog. Try to also feed your dog at the same times as at home. Your dog may be hungrier than usual with all the exercise, so keep that in mind when packing food. 

     

    Be sure that your campsite has shade 

    If you are camping during the summer, your dog overheating is a real concern. To prevent this, it is important to be sure that there is a shaded spot for your dog to cool down while camping. 

     


    Camping with your dog will be a great experience. Your dog will get a chance to explore new sights, sounds, and smells. So, let them enjoy everything while you enjoy too. And take lots of pictures!!

  • Hidden dangers in dog toys and treats

    Hidden dangers in dog toys and treats

    We love our fur babies so much. And we would do anything to make our dogs happy, just like they make us happy. Dog toys are all over the market, so why wouldn’t we want to get some for our friend(s)? Dog toys are specially made for our canine friends, so definitely no big deal, right? Sadly, no. I really am disheartened to have to say this, but the fact that these toys are made for dogs does not automatically mean they are very safe. There can be some real hidden dangers in dog toys and treats that none of us would have ever expected. Who would have thought?

    There are loads of toys on the market that could be very harmful to your dog. And surprise, you might even have some of them in your home already. Gasp! A lot of us also love to spoil our furry friends not only with dog toys, but also with dog treats—especially as rewards because why not? Totally saddened to have to break your heart again, but some of the dog treats you give your fur babies are so dangerous that they could even kill them. It’s that serious. 

    When shopping for toys for your dog, it’s also important to know what type of chewer your dog is. If your dog is a vigorous and heavy chewer, you may need to be more selective on what you give your dogs. And may also need to watch them more closely. Knowing what type of chewer your dog is can benefit your dog’s health and save you money (no point wasting money on something that will only last 5 minutes).

    Let’s take a closer look at some hidden dangers hidden in the toys and treats made for our dog friends. And also discuss the possible ways to keep our fur babies safe and away from harm’s way. We sure don’t want treats that will make us have to go treat our dog at the vet. 

     

    Dog toys and treats that hold hidden dangers

    Tennis balls

    Even though lots of dogs love to play with tennis balls or under-sized balls, they can be very dangerous and go wrong very fast. The small sized balls can easily be swallowed by your dog. Or if you have a very chewy dog, they could easily chew the tennis ball apart. And if they swallow the pieces, they could choke. Choking prevents air passage into the lungs and could cause death if help does not come quickly.

     

    Plastic squeak toys

    Squeaky plastic pet toys are very cute and your canine companion may love them. But they can pose danger to your dog. These toys can easily be torn into pieces, and swallowing these pieces can cause your pet to choke or have digestive obstructions. Make sure you always inspect your dog’s toys and replace them once they are worn out. And if they remove the squeaker in the toy, throw it away immediately. 

     

    Rawhide dog chews and toys

    Rawhide chews and toys are highly loved by dogs. Dogs can spend hours just chewing on these rawhides. If pieces break off or it becomes small enough, your dog may just try to swallow it. This can potentially cause intestinal obstruction or choking. 

    Even worse, many rawhide chews and dog toys made outside of the United States often contain highly toxic chemicals which you want to avoid. The hides are made from the processed skin of cows or sheep, and are a typical byproduct of the leather industry, not the food industry. Their production calls for a lot of not-so-safe chemicals to separate the hide layers, preserve them, cure them, flavor, and color them as well. The presence of all this toxicity in your dog’s body might cause them long-term irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea. 

     

    Raw or processed bones and hooves

    Always watch your dog while they are chewing any of these. They may carry a risk of fracturing or harming your dog’s teeth. Also, if your dog isn’t used to eating such things, they can cause gastrointestinal problems.

     

    Rope toys

    Rope toys are not visibly a threat, but once they begin to shred, your pet might swallow them. It’s very possible the string won’t be able to pass through them, which can cause a life-threatening blockage. 

     

    Jerky treats

    It’s important to pay attention to country of origin when buying treats. Some jerky treats made outside the United States have caused dogs to get sick. It is always best to choose locally sourced, humanely raised jerky treats. And always supervise your dog in case they start to choke. 

     

    Pig or lamb ears

    These are super popular treats that most of us give to our dogs but, again too much of a good thing isn’t good at all. As they are eaten, they can potentially cause a choking hazard. And may cause gastrointestinal issues. If your dog eats them slowly, there is a chance for bacterial overgrowth, which is very unhealthy for your dog.

     

    Deer antlers

    Antlers can be a great long-lasting chew for your dog. But it’s very important to choose the right size and variety. You really need to take into account your dog’s chewing habits as well as their size and weight when choosing an antler. A smaller dog can always handle a larger antler (although it could be a risk of breaking a tooth) but an undersized antler for a larger more aggressive chewer will not last very long. And could become a choking hazard. Always supervise your dog while they enjoy their antlers. 


    If you want more information about what to consider when shopping for new toys, check out our article on safe toy ideas. Remember to consult your dog’s vet if you have specific questions or concerns. And also be mindful, that treats should only be 5–10% of your dogs diet. So, you should adjust their meals accordingly unless you want to deal with an overweight pup. It’s your job to keep your dog out of harm’s way and to be their best happy and healthy self. 

  • 20 ways to create a dog-friendly space in your home

    20 ways to create a dog-friendly space in your home

    Do you love your dogs? If so, you’re probably always looking for ways to make your home more dog-friendly. After all, dogs are a part of the family! Here are 20 ways to create a dog-friendly space in your home that will make both you and your furry friend happy.

    1. Install a dog door. This is the perfect way to give your dog access to the backyard whenever they need it.
    2. Create a designated spot for your dog’s bed or crate. Dogs love having their own space where they can feel safe and comfortable. Putting your dog’s bed or crate in a designated spot will help them feel at home. And don’t worry creating a dog-friendly space doesn’t mean your home has to suffer. There are plenty of crates that look like furniture. Or you can build your own frame or just add a pretty blanket over it. 
    3. Set up a feeding station. Get more creative than just putting out their food and water bowls. Try adding a feeding table or even a mini fridge specifically for your dog’s food. For some dogs, it’s healthier for them to eat their food in an elevated position, so consider keeping your dog’s food bowl off the ground. Make sure to keep extra food hidden away from curious pups. 
    4. Install a dog shower. If your dog likes to get wet and dirty outside, it can be helpful to have a place where they can clean up without tracking dirt through the house. A dog shower is perfect for this!
    5. Paint the room or space for your dog in colors that will feel soothing or emotionally calming to your pet. Creating a dog-friendly space shouldn’t be limited to your floor. Many veterinarians choose blue and violet to create their doggy or pet friendly decor in their offices. It’s helpful to understand what is calming to your pet before choosing a paint color. Pets tend to see colors in more muted shades than humans, so knowing this can help you choose colors that will be more appealing and comforting to them.
    6. Add dog toys and games to the living room. Dogs love playing with their humans! Having some dog toys in the living room is a great way to keep your dog occupied while you’re watching TV or reading a book.
    7. Provide an outdoor dog house for your beloved canine to use. Dogs love being outside, but sometimes the weather can get too hot or cold for them. A dog house will provide them with shelter when they’re outdoors so that they don’t have to be exposed to extreme temperatures all day long!
    8. Create a designated play area for your dog. Dogs need plenty of exercise, and if you create a dog-friendly space in your home as a play area, it will be the perfect spot to let them unwind and relax in a place they can call their own. You can also create a designated play area for them to run around and burn off some energy. Try setting up this area in the backyard for your pet to blow off some steam.
    9. Install a pet gate. If you have small children or other pets in the home, installing a pet gate can be a great way to keep your dog contained in one area while they’re playing or eating. It will also help prevent accidents from happening by keeping everyone safe and out of harm’s way!
    10. Build a dog run. If you want to make sure that your dog always has access to fresh air and sunshine, building a dog run is a great idea! You can also use this space as storage for toys and other supplies.
    11. Add a tent anywhere. Dogs love tents! If you have a spare room in your home or even an unused corner, set up a tent for your dog to play in. They’ll love having their own private space and will probably spend hours inside of it!
    12. Install faux flooring. Dogs don’t always understand why they’re not allowed on the furniture, so adding faux flooring will give them a place where they can sit and be comfortable. This is also great if you have children who like to climb furniture too! Faux flooring looks just like carpet but doesn’t get worn down by use over time—perfect for dogs!
    13. Make a ball pit. If you have a lot of extra space in your backyard, consider turning it into a ball pit for your dog! They’ll love playing in the balls and chasing them around. Plus, it’s a great way to keep them entertained for hours on end. 
    14. Create a sand pit. If your dog loves to dig, why not create a dedicated area where they can dig to their heart’s content. You buy a covered sandbox at the toy store or just dig a hole and fill it with sand. This can get messy though, so perhaps build a fence or barrier to try and keep the sand contained. You can also play hide and seek games with your dog by burying (easily washable) toys in the sand for them to find. 
    15. Get a slide. Dogs love slides! You can build one or get an inexpensive plastic slide at the store. It will keep your dog entertained for hours and give them plenty of exercise while they’re at it.
    16. Install hooks. If you have a lot of dog supplies, such as leashes, toys, and food bowls, installing hooks can be a great way to organize everything. This will also help keep your home looking neat and tidy! If you have the space, you can also create a dedicate closet for all their supplies
    17. Create an outdoor obstacle course. Dogs love obstacle courses! You can set one up in your backyard using items that you already have around the house, such as chairs and tables.
    18. Make a dog bed out of an old tire. If you have any old tires lying around, turn them into a new dog bed! It’s easy to do and will keep your pup comfortable while they’re sleeping or taking naps during the day. Don’t forget their favorite blanket or chew toy!
    19. Make a doghouse under the stairs. This is such a cute idea! You can easily turn those unused areas under the stairs into a cozy dog house. It’s perfect if you have small dogs or puppies who need an indoor place to stay while they’re growing up.
    20. Dog tunes. play a dog song in your home office. Yes, music specifically for dogs is a thing! Dogs need love too, and what better way to show them your love than by including their favorite song in your office environment while you work from home? You can find a variety of dog songs online that will play every time you open up your computer. It’s a great way to start the day or get through a tough work project!

    And for a bonus: 
    21. Put up a mirror. Dogs love looking at themselves in mirrors, and it’s a great way to keep them occupied when you’re busy doing other things around the house. It’s also great for the times when they’re feeling alone or sad because they can see their reflection and feel a little better about themselves!


    As you can see, there are plenty of ways to make your pet feel welcome and loved in your house. Just create a dog-friendly space in your home both inside and outside! By following these tips, both you and your furry friend will be able to enjoy spending time together in the comfort of your own home.

     

    dog-friendly space