1-2009
Indoor Activities
Bad or cold weather can make you and your dog a little stir crazy. When you can’t provide your dog with outdoor physical activity, coming up with some games and activities that work your dog’s mind and senses can give you both a little relief.
If your dog loves a good game of fetch, consider yourself lucky. This game can keep your dog occupied for a long time. If you live in a house with stairs, play fetch up and down the stairs for an added workout. If not, just rolling a ball down the hallway or across the livingroom is a good exercise.
A good hide-and-seek game will not only entertain your dog, but is an excellent exercise for building reliable recalls. If your dog knows “Wait,” ask them to wait in another room while you go hide (if not, have someone hold your dog). Then call your dog to you. When they find you, give them a treat and/or a good play session! Make it fun!
You can also work on obedience commands or even teach your dog some new tricks. Just a few minutes a day will do.
Pet supply manufacturers are now making interactive toys for dogs. Toys like the Kong Biscuit Ball, a large plastic ball with inner chambers made for holding kibble or the Kong Stuff a Ball, can keep your dog entertained while they tip and turn the cube with their nose and paws trying to release the treats. You may have to spend some time teaching your dog how it works, but then it will occupy your dog for lenghty periods of time.
You can also teach “scent games.” Hide treats, bones, or toys in various parts of the house and tell the dog to “Find It!” Make it easy at first. Once your dog gets the hang of this game, start making it more difficult to find the treats – don’t just hide them on the floor, hide them on windowsills, chairs and door knobs! We don’t recommend hiding treats on tabletops and counters, unless you want your dog to consider these areas fair game.
Mental activity requires quite a bit of energy and can keep your dog busy and happy!
11-2008
Caring for Pets When You Travel
Whether it's a business trip or vacation, the decision to take your pet along or leave him behind is an important one for both you and your companion. While it may be tempting to take your furry friend with you, keep in mind that some animals are not suited for travel because of temperament, illness, or physical impairment. If you have any doubts about whether it is appropriate for your pet to travel, talk to your veterinarian.
PREPARE FOR THE TRIP
If you determine it is best for your pet to accompany you, you will need to devote extra time to prepare for the journey. For example, you'll need to have all of the supplies necessary to keep your pet comfortable while he's away from home, and you'll need to familiarize yourself with any pet-related restrictions or requirements imposed by airlines, destination countries or states, hotels, etc. Make the journey a safe and enjoyable one for both you and your companion.
If your are traveling by vehicle, provide your pet with a comfortable place to rest. A bed, crate or car barrier are a few of your options. Your companion should be acquainted with travel before making long trips. Take a few shorter trips around town to get him familiar with your rules for riding.
PREPARE FOR THE STAY AT HOME
If you decide that your pet should not travel, consider the alternatives:
Have a responsible friend or relative look after your pet.
If a friend or relative is going to take care of your pet, ask if that person can take your animal into his or her home. Animals can get lonely when left alone. Be sure that your pet is comfortable with the temporary caretaker and his or her home, not to mention any pets that person has.
Board your pet at a kennel.
If you choose to board your pet, get references and inspect the kennel. Your veterinarian or local shelter can help you select a facility.
Hire a pet sitter.
If you are hiring a pet sitter, interview the candidates and check their references. (A pet sitter may be preferable if your pet is timid or elderly and needs the comfort of familiar surroundings during your absence.)
Provide the caretaker with the telephone number where you can be reached, the name and telephone number of your veterinarian, and your pet's medical or dietary needs. You should also make sure that your pet is comfortable with the person you have chosen.
Whatever option you choose, your pet should be up-to-date on all vaccinations and in sound health.
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