Getting old is no excuse to become a couch potato—and that goes for dogs, too! As your dog ages, regular exercise keeps his muscles toned, his joints protected, his body trim, and his mind sharp. He may no longer be able to slaughter the Frisbee as he used to, but an exercise routine tailored to his likes and needs will make his remaining years truly golden.

How Much Exercise Does My Senior Dog Need?

“The most important thing with older dogs is making a routine,” says Nann Dawn, shelter manager at the Oakland Adoption Center in Oakland, California. Dawn is also one of the shelter’s innovative Silver Muzzle Club founders, an adoption program for pets eight-years and older. “Make time for exercise every day. They can’t afford at their age to be weekend warriors.”

Whether your dog’s idea of fun is swimming, walking, or playing with other dogs, build up slowly. If it’s walking, start with a few blocks and gradually progress to a couple of miles a day.

Beware of overstraining your dog. An older dog will want to please you and might end up playing beyond its limits. Monitor the situation closely and make sure your dog doesn’t become dehydrated, overheated, or too tired. “The key is not to push a dog,” says Chuck Keiser, DVM, at the Heartland Veterinary Hospital in Kentucky. “You don’t want to push an animal beyond a comfort zone.”

What Activities are Good for Senior Dogs?

Steer clear of high-impact activities like jumping, which can stress aging joints. Dr. Keiser recommends swimming as “absolutely the best” for older dogs because it is low-impact. Walking is a close second for the same reason. Surprisingly, however, Keiser also likes agility training, which he says can be easily adjusted to suit a senior dog‘s ability. “There are lots of ways you can modify an agility course for an older dog,” says Keiser. Lowering jumps is a good example. “It can still be a blast for them to participate.”

Obedience training is another option to get senior dogs moving. “Every adult dog who joins the Silver Muzzle Club goes through obedience work,” says Dawn. “We have yet to find one that doesn’t like a little round of treat training,” she says. And a lot of the senior dogs have gone on to do pet therapy. “Most dogs don’t make it to old age without being really good dogs. Sometimes they’re ready to work.”

Dawn also recommends at-home toys, such as Buster Cubes and Kongs filled with kibble, because they keep a senior dog entertained and exercise the jaw muscles. As for social activities, she prefers large dog parks where an older dog might avoid getting bullied or crowded by younger aggressive dogs. “Older dogs can’t take those adolescent body slams,” she says. “Most of them can’t keep up with the youngsters.”

By knowing your older dog’s likes and limitations, the two of you can develop an exercise regimen that will keep both of you having fun for years to come.

Article written by Author: Marcella Durand

Many dog owners seem to feel that walking their dog must be done; a chore that goes along with dog ownership. But walking your dog doesn’t have to be a chore — it can be so much more. When you’re out walking your dog, you are spending time together, interacting with each other, and sharing the sights and sounds of the world around you.

Opportunity for Training

The time spent walking your dog is also a great time to refresh training skills. Walking your dog is no fun if your dog is dragging you down the street, so teaching her to walk nicely on the leash is an excellent skill to emphasize. Have a few treats in one pocket, or if your dog isn’t motivated by treats, take a favorite small toy. When your dog begins to surge forward on the leash (before she is pulling hard), show her the treat or toy, tell her, “Sweetie, watch me!” and make a 180-degree turn. Use the treat or toy to make sure she turns with you, and praise her, “Good girl! Super!” Give her the treat or let her play with her toy for a few moments. After a few surprising turns, she will begin to keep an eye on you when you’re out walking. When she does, praise her.

Opportunity for Socialization

Walking your dog is a wonderful time to meet and greet your neighbors. To protect your neighbors from your dog’s enthusiastic greetings and dirty paws, teach your dog to sit when people greet her by holding her collar with one hand and tucking her hips under her with the other hand. Don’t let your neighbors pet her while she’s misbehaving; that would reward her bad behavior. Once she’s sitting (even if you have to help her do it), your neighbors can greet her and make a fuss over her.

Opportunity for Your Dog to Work

You can also give your dog a job to do while walking. You might be amazed at how much satisfaction your dog will get from something as merely as carrying some of your junk mail home from the mailbox! Put a rubber band or two around several pieces of junk mail or advertisements, making the mail into a tube shape. Hand it to your dog and tell her,

“Take it!” and encourage her to follow you with it. Praise her, “Good girl to take it! Super!” Begin by having her carry it just a few steps and make a big deal over her efforts. With praise and encouragement, she will carry it longer or even carry a small bag home from the grocery store.

Walking your dog is so much more than just a chore. While walking your dog, you are outside in the fresh air, you’re getting some exercise, you’re meeting people, and you’re practicing your dog’s social and training skills. All these things are excellent ways to strengthen your relationship with your dog.

Article written by Author: Liz Palika

Each day at 8 AM sharp, Benji, a two-year-old Pug, can hardly sit still. His eyes fixate on the corner of a building adjacent to his local dog park. Benji goes into a wild frenzy when he sees Jesse, a six-year-old Golden Retriever outside. The two friends are as close as brothers, and they look forward to their morning meetings at the dog park. It’s the highlight of their, and often their owners’ day.

If you have a local dog park, it is likely filled with dogs and people looking for kindred souls. Bark-parkers all over the world are discovering the simple pleasures of a community meeting place. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your visits.

Keep It Simple At the Dog Park

Your dog needs to play, and dog parks provide an enclosed and welcoming environment for it. Even if you only have a set time each day to spend with your pet, a simple romp off-leash at a dog park will help your dog relieve stress, especially if your dog leads a relatively quiet life. Socializing with other friendly canines allows dogs to enjoy each other while developing manners and respect. A quick 15-20 minute visit is better than no visit at all. It’s a chance for you to get some exercise and fresh air too.

Spay and Neuter Your Dog

Benji and Jesse have been neutered, which helps them to enjoy the park safely. Sheila McCullough, DVM, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana, says, “In addition to extending a dog’s health, neutering reduces male territorial instinct.” She reminds pet owners that a female dog in heat will inevitably cause confrontation between males who have not been fixed. Even the gentlest male dogs can be uncontrollable if not neutered when a female in heat is nearby.

Offer Suggestions To Improve Your Local Dog Park

Good parks plan for dogs as well as people. If your city cannot provide playground equipment, such as obstacle pits designed for dogs, consider getting together with other park visitors for a fundraiser to purchase such upgrades. Other improvements might include benches, water fountains, and shade-promoting landscaping that both dogs and owners might appreciate.

Avoid Risks At the Dog Park

Although dog parks often provide creature comforts, risks can loom within the gates. Public parks are open to all — so any canine can come in. Protect your pet from strangers, using a leash if necessary.

A significant concern for those who visit dog parks is the issue of infectious diseases. Before even thinking of visiting a dog park, make sure your dog’s vaccines are current. Avoid dogs that appear lethargic or ill. “Dogs that are very sick do not usually feel well enough to run and play at a dog park,” says Dr. McCullough, “so serious infectious illnesses may not be a major concern. Common sense should tell a dog owner to keep a dog at home if it isn’t well.”

Veterinary hospitals regularly treat injuries from dogfights that happen at dog parks. Make sure your dog is well trained and socialized. Keep your dog away from other dogs that lack such social skills. Accidents can also occur at dog parks, especially when an excited dog runs full-speed through unknown territories. Small dogs are at risk of being “run over” by larger dogs, and older dogs can over-exert themselves, causing injuries and illness.

Personal Story – Susan McCullough

I never saw them coming. I was chatting in a park with a friend while his two Boxers played with my Golden Retriever, Allie. The next minute, I felt myself being hit from behind by all three dogs, catapulting me backward and causing me to hit my head on the ground where I landed. Still, I felt alright. After a minute or two of lying on the ground and checking to make sure I hadn’t broken any bones, I stood up without assistance and drove Allie and myself home. 

But six weeks later, I no longer felt OK.

A Dangerous Situation

I began to have excruciating headaches, and frighteningly, I started to lose the use of my right leg. I consulted my doctor, who ordered me to visit the emergency room of my local hospital. A CT scan revealed that I had two subdural hematomas — masses of blood on the surface of my brain that had developed after my tumble in the park — and required immediate surgery. 

As my experience shows, romps in dog parks or other places where dogs congregate can be great fun, but they may also spell danger to dogs and their owners.

Preventing Injuries at the Dog Park

I asked dog trainer Robin Bennett, author of Off-Leash Dog Play (Dreamdog Productions) and a nationally known dog daycare expert, how people can keep themselves out of harm’s way in dog parks and other popular dog play areas. Here’s what she suggested:

Stay Aware at the Dog Park

“Owners should be aware of what’s going on when dogs are racing around,” says Bennett, who works from Woodbridge, Va. I messed up big-time here. My back was to the dogs while they were playing, so I didn’t see them running toward me. I later realized that I had inadvertently stepped out in front of Allie without giving her enough time to swerve and avoid me as the other two dogs followed close behind. The results were my collision with all three dogs, my backward swan dive to the ground, and the events that followed.

Maintain Loose Knees

“When the dogs are running around, keep your knees loose,” says Bennett. Loose knees lessen the likelihood that one or more dogs can knock you off your feet, whether from the front or behind. At the time, I was standing with my knees locked.

Move From the Dog Park Entrance 

“Owners should not stand too close to the main gate of the dog park where all the action is happening,” says Bennett. “I recommend that dogs have a good recall command and that they are called to the owner when a lot is going on at the gate.”  

Head Toward the Dog Park Perimeter 

The middle of the park is also a popular place of activity, exactly where I was standing. To avoid being knocked over, owners should stand near the perimeter. However, they should not stand right against the fence enclosing the park. It’s essential to give your furry pal some space to come and lie down or sit behind you if it wants.

I unintentionally broke nearly all of Bennett’s rules the day I took my doggie-induced tumble. But I was lucky: My surgery was successful, and my recovery was steady. I’ve also started taking Allie back to the park, but I’m a lot more careful than I used to be.

No Park, No Problem

If your community does not have a dog park, consider forming a committee with other interested pet owners who may support the idea. Your first line of business should be the park’s desired location. Start with your local park and recreation board since many dog

parks lay within public parks’ jurisdiction. Failing that, consider private land, or land that may be available for lease or sale. Your dog park’s location will help determine its required annual budget, who will have access to the facility, and how it should be run.

Visit several dog parks to get ideas for design, features, and rules for usage. You will also need to plan for maintenance, such as trash removal, drainage, and grass mowing. Like any big project, you will need to write a business plan to cover the basics. Your time and effort will be worth it once the park opens. Just ask Benji and Jesse if they happen to come for a visit.

Article written by Author: Connie Jankowski, and Susan McCullough

If you’re like most Americans, you’ve made at least one New Year’s resolution. And according to health provider, Kaiser Permanente‘s “New Year’s and Health Issues Survey,” nearly 60 percent of these resolutions are health and fitness-based. As pet lovers, most of us consider our dogs to be almost human and an integral part of the family. So, while watching the ball drop on December 31st, consider making a resolution to improve the quality of your canine’s health, as well.

Exercise programs that involve more than just a leisurely sniff-and-stroll around the block can get your pup’s heart pounding, diffusing all of that excess energy, ultimately making it less hyper and much healthier overall.

Before starting your dog off on a workout regime, here are some things to consider.

• Get a Veterinarian Checkup 

Have a veterinarian examine your dog first, says pet expert Arden Moore, author of Healthy Dog: The Ultimate Fitness Guide for You and Your Dog. You’ll want to know if your dog has health issues that could affect its ability to exercise. Of course, if you plan on working out with your dog, you should visit your doctor as well.

• Know Your Dog 

A walk around the block will give you an indication of your dog’s condition, but the type and intensity of exercise you undertake also will depend on your dog’s breed. Toy breeds and dogs with what Moore calls affectionately “hunched-in faces,” such as Pugs or Bulldogs, won’t be suited to long-distance running. Short-legged, stocky dogs, such as Corgis or Dachshunds, can manage short bursts of energy and steady-paced walks, while long-legged, light-framed dogs make fine jogging partners.

• Read the Signs 

Be aware of when your dog has had enough. “Don’t be excited because the dog is going to keep going,” cautions Moore. “You don’t want to risk injury.” A drooping tongue, rapid panting, and hesitation in responding are all indications your dog is done for the day. The TV test also works, says Moore. If you’re watching TV at night, relaxing, and your dog is trying to distract you, the exercise probably wasn’t challenging enough. If your dog is napping on the floor, barely moving a muscle, it was too intense. If your dog is napping lightly, happy and content to be with you, you probably hit the right note.

What Exercise Program Would Suit My Dog?

With those cues in mind, here’s a look at some exercise routines for dogs at three points on the fitness spectrum:

The Beginners Plan

First, practice patience, says Jonathan Rudinger, founder and president of PetMessage Health and Fitness Center in Toledo, Ohio. Build endurance and speed slowly. You might have your dog walk on a treadmill for 10 minutes at three miles per hour three times a week, suggests Rudinger. While dog treadmills are available, Rudinger says any treadmill can work. He modifies a treadmill, blocking off the sides to make a chute, using PVC pipe and a dog crate‘s sides.

The first time or two, you’ll want to straddle the dog with your feet outside the moving mat, making sure the leash stays wrapped around the crossbar, and the dog feels safe. Never leave a dog unattended on a treadmill, he advises. “We don’t want them to be like weekend warriors who get injured if they’re put into a physical stress situation too quickly.”

If you’re walking your dog outside, build from a block-long walk to a two-mile jaunt over several months, says Moore. If you want to make the walk purposeful rather than an amble, you’ll need to keep your dog’s attention by changing pace regularly and varying the walk routine.

The Intermediate Plan

If your dog has been conditioning for a while and has the propensity for more intense exercise, it should be able to handle a 20 to 25-minute run at four and a half to five miles per hour on a treadmill, says Rudinger. Again, you want to do this routine about three times a week, allowing for rest. Outside, your dog should be capable of 20 to 40 minutes of fast walking, jogging, or games of catch and tag. If you’re housebound by weather, consider a game of hide-and-seek.

The Advanced Plan

An advanced dog should handle the same treadmill workout as an intermediate dog, but with more frequency, perhaps four to five times a week. A highly conditioned dog might be able to handle an hour or two of purposeful movement outside, says Moore. Varying the type of exercise is useful, perhaps adding a weekend hike or a 15-minute swim in a safe location. Don’t forget water breaks. And your dog benefits from a stretch and a warm-up says Rudinger.

For any fitness level, the most important thing is to develop a routine. Commit to your dog’s exercise, dedicating sufficient time for it regularly, and remembering that you are your dog’s greatest motivator.

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman

For years, Doug Gelbert, author of Doggin America: 100 Ideas for Great Outdoor Vacations to Take with Your Dog, and his Border Collie trekked over trails across the United States. Although his dog is now getting too old for strenuous adventures, the Delaware-based Gelbert still hits the trails with a neighbor dog. “Hiking is simply more pleasurable when there’s a dog by your side,” says Gelbert.

Hiking with dogs takes some planning and thought. The following checklist will help keep your hike from turning into a misadventure.

1. Understand Your Dog’s Capabilities.

Your dog’s breed, size, medical condition, and age all play a role in the distance and difficulty of a hike. A Labrador can go all day, whereas a smaller dog can go for an hour. Medium- to large-sized dogs should be able to hike at least a couple of hours in a moderate climate, adds Dr. Greg Martinez, a veterinarian who hikes and runs with dogs.

2. Recognize when Your Dog Tires.

How will you know when your dog has had enough? “Almost all dogs want to be ahead of you, with you watching its tail wag,” says Gelbert. “If your dog isn’t eager to be ahead of you, it’s an indication that it’s time to rest.”

3. Carry Plenty of Water.

Dogs can overheat faster than we do, notes Martinez. It’s important to carry enough chilled water for your dog to drink — and to even douse your dog with a splash on a hot day. Your dog can be trained to carry its water since canines adjust easily to wearing travel packs. Before your journey, have your dog practice walking around the house with an empty pack, then add toilet paper rolls for weight. And never let your dog drink from a stream or lake. Even a fast-flowing mountain stream is going to have bacteria that can cause diarrhea.

4. Know Environmental Risks.

• Research potential threats to your dog when planning a hike. 
• Make sure your dog is protected against potentially deadly parasites before you leave home. 
• Mosquitoes are prevalent in some areas, and ticks are ubiquitous in others. 
• As for heartworm, protect your dog against ticks but still inspect for ticks after your hike. It’s a good idea to pack a tick comb for that task. 
• If you’re hiking in rattlesnake habitat, ask your veterinarian about a vaccine that protects against rattlesnake venom, advises Martinez.

5. Protect Your Dog’s Paws.

Dogs are often left hiking over rough surfaces with tender paws. Notice the terrain and consider its effect on your dog’s paw pads. It’s easy for your dog to burn its pads on hot surfaces or develop sores in between its toes when hiking on a rocky trail.  If your dog suffers even a minor pad cut, it may bleed profusely. Wrapping it lightly with medical wrapping tape should help. A small tube of Krazy Glue can also be used to close minor 

wounds. Ensure you check your dog’s paws for mud, debris, and even ice that might accumulate between pads.

6. Respect Wildlife and Other Hikers.

Keeping your dog with you makes a hike better for you, your dog, wildlife, and other hikers who might not be dog lovers. Letting your dog wander off-trail poses risks to both your dog and the environment.

If you keep the above checklist in mind, chances are your dog will be waiting eagerly by the front door the next time you pull out your backpack, boots, and trail map.

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman

Like a doting parent, Anne Hendrickson recalls when her dog, Riley, was just a puppy and she started taking him to off-leash dog parks in Minneapolis. “It was so much fun,” Hendrickson says. Riley met a group of playmates. There were Dallas, Zuma, and others. “They would meet and run,” Hendrickson says, “and wrestle and chase and play.”

Hendrickson is convinced of the benefits of off-leash play after seeing how happy it makes Riley and her other two dogs and how well behaved the dogs are in the house afterward. She’s started a dog daycare business, Downtown Dogs Minneapolis, where pups play off-leash. She tells clients that off-leash play may help correct many behaviors at home, such as destructive chewing or digging, resulting from boredom or lack of exercise.

Hendrickson is also the health and safety expert of Dog Grounds, a non-profit in Minneapolis that fights for more public land for off-leash play. She’s part of an urban movement that has caught on from New York City to Seattle, in which dog owners have answered leash laws by fighting for more off-leash parks. Dog owners also set up “playgroups” where pets can romp and socialize. Whenever you put two or more animals together, however, there are risks. Here’s how to make sure that off-leash play is a positive experience for your pet:

Are Dog Parks Good For Socialization?

It’s Important to Know Your Dog’s Temperament 

Not all dogs are cut out for dog parks, says Robin Bennett, a dog trainer in Stafford, Va., and author of Off-Leash Dog Play: A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun (Dogwise). “The best thing to ask yourself is, ‘Does my dog enjoy the company of other dogs?'” Bennett says. “Just as with people, some dogs prefer to have just one or two friends, while others are more like social butterflies.”

When starting at a new playgroup or venturing to a new off-leash park, look for signs of stress in your dog, Bennett advises. “If the dog’s body stiffens up, it may be a bit worried,” Bennett says. Another sign of stress is if the dog was formerly panting with an open mouth and suddenly stops and closes its mouth. “The dog may be holding its breath and saying, ‘I’m not sure of this,'” Bennett says.

Do Dog Parks Make Your Dog Sick?

Just like with humans, there are some health risks you should watch out for when your dog is socializing in a group. Infectious diseases such as Kennel Cough and Canine Influenza are easily spread whenever your dog is socializing with other dogs, and the dog park is no exception. Ensuring that your dog is up to date with his vaccinations gives him the best chance of staying healthy.

Fleas and Ticks are parasites that can be passed on to other dogs during play. Luckily there is a range of preventative and treatment options for you and your dog.

How Do I Find Dog Parks Near Me?

There is a growing variety of off-leash parks and playgrounds in communities around the country. Most city or county governments will have information on their websites about public parks that allow dogs to be off-leash. Also, websites such as “Off-leash meetup” will enable you to search for groups or locations by zip code. If you can’t find an organized playgroup, ask your veterinarian, breeder, or other dog owners that your pup sniffs during its walks. If you have a fenced-in yard, you might even consider starting such a group yourself.

Introduce your dog to off-leash slowly. If your dog has never been to an off-leash park before, avoid peak hours. “The first time you bring your dog, go at a time when it isn’t hectic, usually early in the morning or on a weekday,” suggests Hendrickson. “This way, your dog can sniff and explore on its terms.”

Bennett suggests first introducing your dog to another dog, one on one. “Make sure to introduce your dog to another that is relatively calm and isn’t going to overwhelm your pet,” Bennett says. Look for a positive greeting ritual. Dogs tend to approach each other in an arc and sniff each other’s faces and necks before making a beeline for the behind, Bennett says.

Watch Your Dog For Signs of Stress or Aggression 

Monitor your pup closely for a reaction to other dogs. Healthy play behavior involves exaggerated and repetitive movements, Bennett says. These may include chasing, jumping in the air, moving quickly to the left or right, and bowing down with the front paws.

Be on the alert for dogs that become rough or aggressive. “Any time two dogs are off-leash together, there is a risk of injury,” Hendrickson says. Cuts and scratches are likely. However, bullying is a possibility at dog parks. It can be challenging to spot because dogs bite and wrestle and pin each other in play. Hendrickson recommends the “Bully Test.” Remove the alleged aggressor and watch the “bottom dog’s” reaction to see if it continues to try to play or takes the opportunity to getaway. If your dog wants to flee, it’s time to leave.

Follow Dog Park Etiquette 

A dog trainer or other expert sometimes sponsors dog daycare situations or organized playgroups. At other times, dog owners are on the honor system. You should abide by the following general rules:

• Never let your dog play with other dogs if they have an infectious disease, such as kennel cough, or worms, experts say. Make sure your pet is protected and up to date on its vaccinations.
• Don’t take a dog to an off-leash park if it doesn’t have basic obedience training, such as coming when called, Bennett stresses.
• Bring plastic bags to clean up after your dog, Hendrickson says.
• If your dog shows aggression toward others, take it out of the park, Bennett says.
• Don’t bring food or doggie treats into the dog park, Bennett says. Other dogs may want treats, too. One thing dogs will fight over is food.

Dog Park Etiquette Questions

Like the gym or the workplace, a dog park is a social place with its own set of proper etiquette guidelines. But what that means in a dog park isn’t always obvious. With the help of Charlotte Reed (author of The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette) and Cheryl Smith (a certified dog behavior consultant and author of Visiting the Dog Park: Having Fun, Staying Safe), we set the record straight on some crucial aspects of dog park etiquette.

Q: I’m very protective of my small dog. I want her to have fun at the park, but I don’t want her to get hurt. Can I keep her on the leash to always be close and pull her out of rough situations?

A: Sorry, but no. A dog park is specifically for off-leash play. “A leash can create different reactions in the leashed dog, who feels constrained and unable to react as he or she may wish,” says Smith. “Leashes can create barrier frustration,” she says. Barrier frustration is a common dog behavior issue, where dogs may lash out because they don’t feel in control. If you’re still concerned about your pet, you might consider trying to establish an event for small dogs only at your local dog park.

Q: My dog gets thirsty after running around in the park. Should I bring his water bowl for drink breaks?

A: Only if you bring him outside the park for the break. It’s too hard to keep the other dogs away from your bowl, and both Reed and Smith point out that a communal water bowl is also a communal germ pool. Nasty bugs like giardia can spread through water.

Q: What about treats? Since I dole those out by hand, they’re something I can control.

A: It’s not a good idea to give your dog food in front of other dogs. Not only might you get mobbed and knocked over by jealous, hungry dogs, but other owners could also become agitated. This tip additionally applies to food you might bring for yourself. “The smell and sight of it will rile up the dogs,” says Reed.

Q: Aside from being a great place to exercise my dog, isn’t the dog park also a perfect place to find love?

A: Perhaps, but keep the former purpose at the forefront. Reed once witnessed a flirty woman become so enamored with a male dog owner that she didn’t notice her terrier escape the dog park and run away. The dog was smart enough to run home, but as Reed points out, “You should love the ones you’re with and not lose them by looking for love at the dog park.”

Q: My dog is always well behaved and can fend for herself. Is it OK for me to leave her in the park for 20 minutes while I run to the store?

A: Absolutely not. You are responsible for your dog’s actions, so you need to be there. “Believe it or not, people do this,” says Smith. “But the park is not to babysit your unattended dog while you go off and run some errands.”

Q: I appreciate that my dog gets to play, but I also like to use the dog park as a way to relax. It’s not as if my dog is a 2-year-old child, so is it OK to bring a book to read?

A: No! Your dog is like a 2-year-old child, whom you need to pay attention to. Please do this for the sake of his or her safety and the sake of the other dogs. And speaking of 2-year-olds, you might notice that dogs poop whenever and wherever they want, and it’s your responsibility to pick it up. “Piles of poop are the prime reason dog parks are shut down or never open in the first place,” says Smith. Most people are happy to clean up after their dogs, so a poop-filled dog park is likely the result of people who don’t pay attention.

For further reading on dog parks, check out our article ‘Meet You At the Dog Park.’

Article written by Author: Brad Kloza, Elizabeth Wasserman, The Dog Daily Expert

Playgroup sessions provide a fantastic exercise outlet for dogs and improve their social skills. Owners usually enjoy them, too, as the shared interest in dogs provides a wonderful conversation icebreaker. I’ve received some great tips while chatting with other pet owners.

The Humane Society in Minnesota is one of many different places that organize such playgroups. This particular organization offers playgroups for small dogs, puppies, featherweights, micro dogs (canines under 7 pounds), teen puppies, and, my favorite, the “yappy hour,” which is a mixed-age, all-size group. Ensure you bring your dog to the appropriate group; if your pet is small and skittish, larger dogs might intimidate it.

• The society advises that your dog goes to the bathroom before attending these or other playgroups. They recommend toileting your dog before you get in the car and also after you arrive. If your dog marks, it must wear a belly band or sani-panties.
• Arrive early to ensure your dog’s placement in the group. If it’s your first time, most organizers require that you fill out some paperwork and provide proof that your dog is up-to-date with vaccinations. Rabies, distemper/parvo, and bordetella are the usual basics.

All such preparations help to make the experience a safe and enjoyable one for you and your dog.

What Are the Benefits of Dog Playgroups?

Across the country, dog social groups are enabling dog owners and their pets to find common ground. Dog-centric social groups provide both with an outlet for relaxation, shared fun, and a source of information and support. Groups gather in dog parks and pet boutiques or meet for activities (e.g., hikes or days at the beach).

Calendar-Worthy Special Dog Events

Janene Zakrajsek, owner of Pussy & Pooch pet boutiques in Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif., says her Mutt Mingles is “our version of a ‘Yappy Hour’ for all.” Pussy & Pooch has been holding Mutt Mingles for almost five years, and the store works to make the events memorable for both dog and human participants. Mingles have included a tea party to celebrate International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, an Earth Day Bark for Green party, and an Oktoberfest Dog Beer & Sausage-Fest.

“Minglers enjoy the freedom of letting their little ones run around the store leash-free for some much-needed pup playtime,” explains Zakrajsek. “Naturally, our guests also enjoy the refreshment, raffles, Pawbar tastings (at the store’s pet cafe), and other fun we create for them.”

Regular Dog Playdates, Thanks to Facebook

While attending Mutt Mingles is like having a date night with your dog, other dog-oriented social groups meet on a more casual basis. “I belong to a group of dog owners who meet at the dog park daily,” says Kimberly Gauthier, a Seattle blogger/photographer. “We have a Facebook group and check-in throughout the day to see who’s going to the park and when. What I find hilarious is that we identify each other by our dogs’ names. We know all the dogs and their personalities.”

Using a social networking site strengthens the group’s connections, explains Gauthier. Facebook allows the group to set schedules easily, make plans outside of their dog park encounters, and keep up-to-date on potential issues. “One dog was diagnosed with kennel cough, and we were all informed immediately,” she says.

Ask the Right Questions of Your Dog Playgroup, Do Your Homework

If you plan to join or start a canine social group, it’s important to consider several factors and take a few precautions, say social group coordinators and participants. This checklist should help:

• Ensure the Dog Playgroup is Safe for Your Dog – Can Dogs Get Sick from Dog Playgroup?

“If you’re joining someone else’s group, you want to know if they screen for dogs being up-to-date on shots, aggressive tendencies, and more,” advises Janice Costa. She manages the 145-member The Canine Club Meetup Group in New York City and runs the dog vacation business Canine Camp Getaway. “You want to know if the group leader has any formal experience working with dogs if he or she has ever broken up a dog fight, how they handle behavioral problems.”

• How Is the Dog Playgroup Managed?

Will the group mix dogs of various sizes? Is the event on- or off-leash? How many dogs will attend? Costa limits off-leash events to a manageable 12 to 15 dogs and keeps activities to just a few hours.

• Consider Your Focus for Dog Playgroup

Whether you’re joining a group or starting one, the activities should suit you and your dog. If you and your dog are couch potatoes, then an energetic dog/owner hiking club isn’t for you.

• Think About Supporting a Dog Charity

Often, canine-focused social groups enjoy supporting dog-related causes. Kate Singleton, who founded the San Francisco Chihuahua Meetup, and her fellow Chihuahua owners use their meetup to address the problem of homeless dogs. “We 

have had lots of dogs adopted via the meetup, and many of the members, including me, have started fostering,” she says. “We often will have raffles to raise dollars for rescue groups or to help our group with Meetup.com fees.”

• Manage the Dog Playgroup Consistently

“Our group works because the people like the consistency,” says Singleton.

Most important of all, you and your dog should enjoy the experience. “The exercise and socialization in a safe and pleasant atmosphere is the key,” says Zakrajsek.

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman, and The Dog Daily Expert

Aromatherapy, massage, acupressure, and fitness swimming sound like the services offered at an exclusive spa. All that’s missing at Rocky’s Retreat in Orlando, Fla., is human clientele.

Sherri Cappabianca and co-owner Toby Gass offer dogs an array of gentle, noninvasive services that they consider to be far from frivolous indulgences at their dog health and fitness center. “It’s integral to their health,” says Cappabianca, who has more than 1,000 hours of training in canine aqua therapy, small-animal massage, small-animal acupressure, canine behavior, and related fields.

Increasingly, dog owners understand that their pets need regular exercise and preventative efforts to maintain good health. They’re finding that the sorts of therapies we humans enjoy, such as aromatherapy and massage, also serve their dogs well.

Does Your Dog Need a Fitness Center?

Clients come to Rocky’s Retreat for myriad reasons, says Cappabianca. For example, swimming may help rehabilitate your dog after an injury. Obese dogs, dogs that need gentle exercise, high-energy dogs in need of a release, dogs that experience stress (such as service dogs), and dogs with behavioral issues can benefit as well, says Cappabianca. Aromatherapy can be soothing for anxious dogs, while massage can work well for senior dogs, among others.

It can also be practical for you as a dog owner to use a dog fitness center, says Dr. Craig Woods, a Prescott, Ariz. veterinarian who did his graduate work on muscle biochemistry during exercise. “Dog fitness centers can be an excellent way for dog owners to provide their pet’s exercise requirements,” says Woods.

What to Expect From a Dog Fitness Center

Rocky’s Retreat is designed to be a soothing sanctuary, with a welcoming lobby, a spacious room for doggie daycare, a pair of treatment rooms, an indoor pool, and a large backyard. When it comes to swimming, “one of us is in the pool at all times, with our hands on the dog at all times,” says Cappabianca. “If a dog is paralyzed or partially paralyzed, we exercise those limbs. With high-energy dogs, we control their speed with resistance. We start at the far end of the pool and have them swim toward their owner.”

Clients might schedule a massage every couple of weeks or a swim once a week. At Rocky’s Retreat, prices range from $90 for an hour swim to $85 for aromatherapy to $60 for a massage/acupressure treatment. The center also offers specials, memberships, and therapy packages.

What Should I Look for in a Dog Fitness Center?

Because dog fitness centers generally aren’t regulated, it’s up to you to do your research and make sure the center you use follows specific standards. Consider these factors before you use a facility:

• Training and Credentials of Dog Fitness Staff

Technicians should have experience and training in the services they are offering. They’ll often list their training and affiliations on the fitness center website, as Cappabianca does.

• The Ability to Handle Veterinary Emergencies 

“It is also important that the pet exercise center have qualified staff that has some experience in veterinary care,” says Woods. “Always ask a pet exercise center what their staff qualifications are, and make sure they have a veterinarian who can attend to emergencies or situations that might arise.” The center might not have a veterinarian on staff, but it should be affiliated with a veterinarian who can be called upon when needed.

• Offer a Range of Programs

The center should tailor programs for a dog’s age, breed, weight range, and other considerations, says Woods.

• A Quality Facility 

The facility should be clean, welcoming, and designed with your dog in mind. Evaluate how your dog will get into and out of the pool, and make sure the surface surrounding the pool is nonslip. The area should be secure to prevent canine escapes, notes Cappabianca. Understand how pool sanitation is maintained. “Ours is ozone-based, so there’s less chlorine than there is in drinking water,” she notes. The facility should carry liability insurance.

As with any aspect of your dog’s health, you should consult with your veterinarian before your dog engages in a new fitness routine.

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman