Home Summer Tips

Grilling:
Dogs are attracted to grills because they smell like (all together now…) MEAT! Vegetarians are not exempt from this issue – your grilled zucchini and pineapple smell pretty great to dogs, too!

A large number of dogs have been seriously burned by jumping up and touching the hot cooking surface with their face and their paws. To prevent this, you either have to tell your dog do a “sit and stay” while you’re flipping the burgers or keep him confined to a place (inside or out) where he can’t get to the grill at all. Even after the food is gone and the party is over, dogs are still attracted to the drippings that may be around the still-hot grill, so be sure your clean-up is impeccable!

And Chilling:
Some dogs love to swim in the pool, others are afraid of it. In either case, you have to teach your dog how to exit the pool in case they fall in. I know, I know, you have a fenced-in enclosure so your dog will never be able to access the pool, but the definition of an accident is something you don’t expect to have happen! Therefore, a little training now can prevent a tragedy from occurring later. Your dog needs to learn how to get from the pool to the ladder or the stairs no matter what! Either by coaxing him in the pool using food or toys as a lure, or by having him follow another, experienced dog out of the water, being able to get to the ladder or stairs of your pool is a skill that may one day save your dog’s life.

Those of you who do allow your dogs access to the pool need to keep an eye on them, just as you would your children. You should also know that while they’re in the pool, dogs will ingest some of the water they swim in, and although they normally won’t pee in your pool (yay!), they sometimes have accidents in your house (sorry!). Giving them extra opportunities to use the “facilities” will prevent housebreaking accidents from happening.

Table Manners:
A simple “down and stay” or “go to your rug command” assures your family and guests that the food they put on their plate won’t be stolen by your dog! It also prevents your dog from sharking around under the table, drooling on people’s bare feet. Don’t forget to give your dog a really great (new!) toy to occupy him while you eat and be sure he’s in a cool, shaded area.

On The Road Again:
Or not. If you plan on taking your dog on a road trip this summer, please be sure that he or she has been on a few mini-trips before you start your vacation. Many people make the mistake of bringing their dogs – who have only been to the vet’s office and maybe the groomer! – on a trip and expect them to behave as if they’re travel veterans. Whether you’re going away for a week to your neighbor’s house on the lake, or staying at a hotel for the weekend, bringing your dog to new places before you leave (a different friend’s house a few times a week, or a local hotel lobby that allows dogs) will help give your dog a taste of the world beyond his dog bed.

What’s In Your Wallet?
If you’re traveling with your dog, it should include a recent photo and a copy of his health certificate, listing all of his recent vaccinations. In the unlikely event that you become separated from your dog, you have all the information you need to have him returned home.

Hopefully, it goes without saying that your dog should be wearing a collar with his i.d. tags attached. If you’re planning on being away for more than a few days, consider purchasing an inexpensive 2 nd pet i.d. tag with the location and phone number of your vacation spot. Those of you who have your dogs micro-chipped are ahead of the game!

Travel Bags:
Nowadays, dogs are commonly seen peeking out of travel carriers slung over their owners’ shoulders. However, in order for your dog to fall in love with his carrier, the relationship has to start (as with any good relationship) slowly. Forget about buying the bag, popping your dog inside, zipping it up and heading for the airport. Plan on a 2-3 week honeymoon period where the bag is initially placed on the floor so that your dog can get used to the sight and smell of it. Next, randomly leave a special treat in it (my dogs prefer a piece of deli turkey!) and watch how quickly your dog will keep checking his “magic treat bag”. When he’s ready for a test drive, put him in using a command (I say “get in your bag”), keep your hand on his collar (so he can’t jump out), and take him on a short walk around the inside your house. Don’t forget to praise and reward him for staying calm while he’s in the bag. When you progress to longer (and less local!) trips, be sure to provide him with a few new toys so he can keep himself occupied. Eventually, your dog will love his bag and the fun of going to new and exciting places with you. .