Events You Don’t Want to Miss in Northern Colorado This Halloween 2019

 

Halloween is almost here. It is time to enjoy the scary holiday and have a fun time out in the world. These events are fun for you and for your pets!

Our Top 7 Halloween Events That Involve Your Pets:

 

When: October 19th, 12-2pm

Where: Wellington Veterinary Hospital, 7837 6th St, Wellington

We had so much fun last year we are doing it again this year! Dress your pup up and come down for some great beer and good times! Prizes for the top costumes!

 

When: October 25th, 3-4:30pm

Where: Gunter Field UNC Campus

Join us for our annual fun halloween themed festival sponsored by University of Northern Colorado’s FETCHLAB!  There will be several events for you and your dog to participate in! We will have prizes, raffle tickets, and treats! Participate in our fun events, including best trick, costume contest, obstacle course, 25 yard dash, home run commands, frisbee catch, toy retrieve, and more!

This event is open to everyone (with or without a pup) and is FREE to attend and participate!

 

When: October 26th, 9am-12:30pm

Where: Biergarten at Anheuser-Busch, 2351 Busch Dr, Fort Collins

The Phantom 4 Miler is a dog-friendly, Halloween themed 4-mile run/walk open to the whole family.

 

When: October 26th, 12-1pm

Where: Lee Martinez Farm, Fort Collins

Bow Wowvania is a dog-friendly trick-or-treat event at The Farm. Hundreds of dogs and dog owners will take a stroll down Trick-or-Treat Street dressed in costume and eager for treats. All dog owners will receive a doggie bag for treats and travel between storefronts hosted by our sponsors.

 

When: October 26th, 12-2pm

Where: Bath Garden Center and Nursery, 2000 E Prospect Rd, Fort Collins

Costume Contest! Pet costume contest! Pumpkin carving demonstration! Crafts! Fun!

 

When: October 27th, 2-4pm

Where: Oak Street Plaza, 201 S College Ave, Fort Collins

Dress your pug in the spookiest, silliest, cutest costume you can find and come join the fun as we “parade” around Old Town. Humans are encouraged to dress up, too, and we LOVE theme costumes. And if your pug has a sibling who’s not a pug, they are welcome too!

 

When: October 31st, 7am to 6pm

Where: The Dog Pawlour, 2005 S College Ave, Fort Collins

Come and celebrate Halloween with at the Dog Pawlour. Bring your pup in their best costume for a costume contest! Winners get to take home a tasty prize!


If you’re going to be heading out to one of these events make sure you are being safe and that your dog will be comfortable. Not all dogs love visiting people who are dressed up in scary costumes!

We hope that everyone has a happy and healthy Halloween!

 

6 Things To Do in Fort Collins for New Years

The new year is almost here. It is time to bring to a close one year and the start of a new one. It’s not only a time to think about resolutions, it is also a time to think about spending time celebrating this special time of the years. So, if you’re looking for a great way to ring in the new year, we have picked the top 6 fun things for you do to in Fort Collins this New Year.

Our Top 6 New Years Events:

(These are events from 2019. For 2020, please stay home, stay safe and we will see you next year!)

 

  • New Year’s Eve at Loveland Laser Tag

When: 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.

New Years

Where: Loveland Laser Tag, 401 Denver Ave., Loveland

Try your hand at laser tag this New Year’s Eve, with Loveland Laser Tag’s New Year’s Eve lock-in, which will include all attractions, a full dinner buffet, a non-alcoholic sparkling cider toast at midnight and more. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.

 

  • First Night Fort Collins

When: 5:30-10 p.m.

Where: Downtown Fort Collins

Bring the whole family to Old Town this New Year’s Eve as First Night Fort Collins gears up for a free night of winter wonderland-themed offerings, including international dance, live theater, magic, comedy and music performances. Kids run free at the event’s “bounceland,” filled with giant inflatables and face painters. A kids countdown starts in the Square at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks finish the night early at 10 p.m.

 

  • Garden of Lights

When: 5-9 p.m.

Where: The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., Fort Collins

Wander through a wonderland of twinkling lights at the annual Garden of Lights at the Gardens on Springs Creek. While there is no cost of admission, a $5 donation per adult and $2 donation per child is suggested.

 

  • An Epic Night to Remember at Fusion

When: Starts at 7 p.m.

Where: Fusion Night Club, 351 Linden St., Fort Collins

Du’ Tell Events and Fusion Night Club invites you to celebrate New Years Eve with dancing, live music, hors d’ oeuvres, an open bar, party favors, a balloon drop, photo booth and a champagne toast at midnight. Dress to impress. Tickets are $60 per person or $100 per couple.

 

  • New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party

When: Starts at 9 p.m.

Where: Dungeons & Drafts, 1624 S. Lemay Ave. Unit 6, Fort Collins

Mask up and head down to Dungeons & Drafts for its 2017 New Year’s Masquerade bash. Attendees 21 and over will get a free glass of champagne at midnight.


If you’re going to be heading out this New Year’s Eve make sure your pet stays safe. Follow these quick safety tips to keep everyone safe while ringing in 2018.

  • Don’t leave them outside at night. The fireworks can throw them into a panic. They may try to escape the yard or get tied up in their leash if they are tethered.
  • Make sure tags are updated. This is important just in case they do end up escaping during the night.
  • Turn on ambient noise (i.e., TV or radio) to drown out a party or fireworks.
  • Hire a pet sitter if your pet is particularly anxious about loud noises and being alone.

We hope that everyone has a happy and healthy New Year!  CHEERS!

 

5 Halloween Costumes That Include Your Dog 2019

 

Halloween is almost here, soon the weekends will fill up with costume parties and trick or treating. Couple’s costumes have always been a hit. But pairing up with your four-legged friend is even better.  You are sure to stand out with one of these awesome Halloween costumes that include your dog. With these top 5 costume ideas, you are sure to be the talk of the party for years to come.

1. Luke Skywalker, Han Solo or Princess Leia with an Ewok 

Choose your favorite Star Wars character and pair it with one the ever adorable Ewoks of Endor. You can go all out with store-bought costumes or keep it simple. Drape your dog with a brown cloak and attach a stick to the side. Then pick out similar cloths as your favorite character, grab a wig or pull up your hair, and you’re set.  Now, if you could only teach your dog to bark, “UTINI!!!!”

2. Felonius Gru and a Minion 

Photo from Buy Costumes

Photo from Buy Costumes

I love how comfortable and easy this one is for the human! Black pants, grey sweater and striped scarf will pull this look off. If you really want to go all out get the mask and scarf from Amazon, then you’ll really be Despicable Me.

3. Daenerys Stormborn & Her Dragon

Another costume that is sure to be a hit is Daenerys and her dragons from Game of Thrones. If you’re handy with the sewing machine, you could easily fashion some wings for your dog and a flowy garb ala Khaleesi. Or take the easy way with a plush dragon costume and a true Mother of Dragon’s outfit.

 

4. Batman (or Batgirl) and Robin

Photo from Amazon

The dynamic duo has never been so perfect! Dress your dog up as Robin and don your best Dark Knight get up for the perfect costume.

5. Ringmaster & Lion

Let your dog be the star of the show as a lion and you as the Ringmaster under the big top.

Just remember to never leave your dog unattended in a costume. It is important that your dog is safe and comfortable. Safety is an important part of a good time. Make sure to stay tuned next week for more Halloween safety tips.

 

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 

How to Grow Catnip Indoors – Live with Liana!

 

 

It’s amazing how easy it is to successfully grow catnip of your own, both indoors and out. Have you ever purchased dried catnip at the store? Then you excitedly open it for your cat only to have them sniff and it lick nonchalantly before walking away? Or maybe if you were lucky, they may have rolled in it a little bit and took a nap on it. And you’re sitting there like, “Wait, I thought catnip was so much more exciting than that for cats???”

And the truth is, it really is supposed to be more fun for them. While some cats never really take to it, most love it, especially when it is fresh. Make sure to watch the whole video for our funny story about how Liana’s cat first reacted to the fresh plant. Because that’s just it, the dried catnip at the store isn’t fresh. Plus, it’s super easy to maintain and can grow into a wonderful thick bush.

Here are some quick easy steps to get you and your cat in catnip heaven:

  1. Purchase small live plants at your local pet store. Or if you have a green thumb you can try planting and growing them from seed.
  2. Water, water water! These plants need a lot of water, so make sure to water them at least every other day.
  3. Don’t forget to trim and clip them for optimal growth. Cut stems down near the center for a fuller plant. Also, you can clip a cut stem into two segments to stimulate two new branches for additional growth.

 

Ways to dry your plant:

  • Take two or three branches and tie the bottoms together
  • Find a cool dry place to hang them upside down for 2-3 weeks until dry
  • Or tear off the leaves whole and place into a dehydrator for 24 hours
  • Don’t crush the dried leaves until you are ready to give them to your kitty for maximum freshness

 

Do you have any funny catnip stories? We’d love to hear them! Let us know in the comments below or on our YouTube & Facebook pages!

 

Top 5 Pet Friendly Restaurants in Fort Collins

One of the best ways to spend sunny days is sitting on a patio watching the people. Appetizers on your plate, cool drink in your hand. And what is even better is enjoying the sunshine and people with your dog by your side. A lot of times restaurants and dogs don’t mix, but don’t fret! Luckily, there are some great places around Fort Collins where your pet is welcome.

Fort Collins – Pet-Friendly Restaurants

The Snooze Eatery

144 W Mountain Ave
Fort Collins, CO
(970) 482-9253

Perfect for a nice brunch out before hitting the park or shopping at a local pet store. They are Snooze is only open for breakfast and lunch, but it’s definitely a great place to check out with your dog.

Coppersmith’s Pub & Brewery

5 Old Town Square
Fort Collins, Colorado
(970) 498-0483

One of the most popular breweries in Ft. Collins, Coppersmith’s has a friendly staff as well as a dog-friendly patio for you to enjoy.

Ginger and Baker

359 Linden St
Fort Collins, CO
(970) 223-7437

In addition to great food, Ginger and Baker also has a menu of tasty dog treats ready for your pup to enjoy.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries

2842 Council Tree Ave # 173
Fort Collins, CO
(970) 204-9140

Enjoy Five Guys famous burgers on the dog-friendly patio with water bowls included. Relax on the corner with affordable food and fast service.

Wild Boar Cafe

1510 S College Ave
Fort Collins, CO
(970) 472-1074

Dine-in this special 1924 bungalow home-style cafe. Fresh food, friendly faces, and a great atmosphere with a patio perfect for your pet.

 

It’s always fun to include our dogs in our daily life outside of the home. What are some of your favorite pet-friendly restaurants in Fort Collins? Let us know on social media or Contact Us so we can add them!

 

6 Causes of a Fearful Dog

 

With the prospect of warmer weather, we often find ourselves getting out of the house more for a nice day at the park or on the town.  And that also means a lot of times our dogs are doing more socializing as well. Thinking about sunny day jaunts with your happily prancing dog can help you get through any day or week.fearful dog

But it’s not always so picturesque. Sometimes you wonder, “do I have a fearful dog?” and even more so, “how do I help my fearful dog?” Have you been trying to implement a behavior plan to put your dog on the path to become a happier, more confident dog?

The first step to implementing a successful plan is to try to determine the root cause for your fearful dog as well as trying to figure out where your dog is on the spectrum of fear.

In Nicole Wilde’s book “Help for Your Fearful Dog”, she discusses the degrees of fear and six causes of those fears. She explains that the first degree of fear as anxiety. So anxiety would be characterized as low level fear. At the other, more extreme end, is phobias. In between those two levels she labels fears as mild, moderate, and intense fears. So it goes like this: anxiety, mild fear, moderate fear, intense fear, and phobias in that order.

The causes of “fear” on the spectrum vary. Nicole Wilde discusses the six fears in her book as the following:

1. Genetics:

A dog’s genetic code along with prenatal and post natal experience can affect a dog’s disposition. Sometimes this cause is difficult to pinpoint unless you have background information on the parents of the dog. Some breeds are just predisposed to certain behaviors and that’s why it’s important to research a breed before purchasing one. These types of fears are not easy to overcome and sometimes may never be completely overcome.

2. Lack of Socialization:

Many dogs that fear people, other dogs or new situations have not had proper socialization as puppies or young dogs. Puppies need to be exposed to other animals, people, different environments and the like early on in life to avoid a fear response when exposed to those very things. The best period for proper socialization begins at four weeks of age and ends at 12 weeks of age. After that point, it becomes more difficult to address those fears.

3. Abuse:

Some dogs have that are rooted in abusive situations. This type of fear is addressed with behavior modification exercises as well as the development of a bond and trust with the pet parent/owner. Once trust has been established, the behavior is alleviated or eliminated entirely.

4. Traumatic Experience:

Think post-traumatic stress syndrome. Yes, Dogs can be plagued with this too. A bad grooming experience or being attacked by another dog would both be considered traumatic experiences just as a car accident is for a human or a war experience. These types of fears, albeit intense and often requiring a lengthy behavior modification plan can be alleviated and or eliminated entirely as well.

5. Learned Fears:

Dogs create associations very quickly. For example, your dog may learn to associate car rides with vet or grooming visits that may have been undesirable so then he may resist car rides and become fearful of them because he associates the car ride with the said vet or grooming visit. Make sense? The key to resolving learned fears is being able to discover the initial cause is. That can be tricky sometimes as the owner may or may not have been present to witness the triggering event.

6. Pain/Illness:

Some dogs develop fears during a bout with pain or illness. For example, if a dog had a bad ear infection that caused him pain, he may develop a fear of having his ears touched. Now, these fears can sometimes easily be resolved by treating the illness that is causing the pain. However, some illnesses or conditions may be lifelong. Let me explain. If a dog is going blind due to cataracts and surgery is not advisable, this dog may become apprehensive in new environments or with sudden movements due to not being able to see properly. This situation would require making the dog feel as safe as possible, providing comfort and treatment when applicable and keeping the environment predictable.

 

The most important take away is that if you have a fearful dog, use patience and understanding. Reach out to your local vets and trainers, their wealth of knowledge is there to help!

What are the Leash Laws in Fort Collins?

What are the Leash Laws in Fort Collins?_Header

Do you ever notice dog’s off leash at parks, on trails, or in neighborhoods? Then you start to wonder if they really need to be on a leash? What about the safety of smaller dogs and cats? Why have your dog on a leash if they don’t really need it? Especially if they have excellent voice command skills. And that’s why it is important to be familiar with our county’s leash laws.

Basically, the laws state that all animals need to be in a fenced in area or leashed. But what’s more is that this seems to be an area of great debate in Fort Collins; being as we have tons of trails and natural wildlife area to explore. Some pet owners don’t agree with always having to restrain their pets, especially if they love to spend time outdoors. But parents, home owner associations, dog owners vs. cat owners, all have different opinions.

What’s all the fuss about:

  • Owners like their pets to be able to expend energy and explore the wilderness
  • People are worried about wildlife and their own pets (big dogs vs. little dogs, dogs, vs. cats)
  • Destruction of property
  • Safety

No matter how you feel, if your pet is found off leash and deemed “a stray” the following is stated at the Larimer Humane Society:

Even the most responsible pet owners can be accidentally separated from their pets. Each year, Larimer Humane Society receives close to 5,000 stray animals. Licensed pets that wander away from home can be returned to their owner without ever coming to the shelter. Lost pets not in compliance with the local pet license ordinance will be brought to Larimer Humane Society.

If you encounter a stray animal and feel comfortable bringing it into the shelter, please do so. If the animal you encounter is wearing its license tag, you can call Larimer Humane Society and obtain the owner’s contact information to notify the owner that you have their animal.
Impound and boarding fees will apply to pets brought into the shelter. For more information regarding animals at large as it pertains to the Fort Collins municipal code, please visit code section 4-93.

Impound & Boarding Fees
The impound fee for pets wearing their license tag is $40.

The impound fee for licensed pets not wearing their tag and unlicensed pets is $60.
In addition to the impound fee, an additional $15 boarding fee will apply per calendar day.
Stray animals are held for five days, not including the day the animal was impounded. After the five-day waiting period, stray animals become the property of Larimer Humane Society and are evaluated for potential placement in our adoptions program.

Clearly there are a lot of points of view on this matter, but the law stands. So, keep your pets restrained or confined (humanely, that is) because it’s the law. And that’s why even if you don’t agree with it, you could face fines, which no one wants.

The Problems with Dog Kennels

 

Dog kennels can be a great place to make sure your dog stays safe while you are away on vacation or a business trip. However, there can be some serious dangers when it comes to kennels. There can be exposure to sickness, behavioral problems, and even trauma for dogs who spend too much time in a kennel.

 

Sickness found in Kennels 

Dogs in kennels are at risk for contracting a whole host of diseases and parasites. Respiratory conditions like Kennel Cough, and Canine Distemper, as well as parasites, fleas, ticks and mange, can easily be passed from dog to dog.

 

Behavioral Problems

There is a whole of of stress put on a dog while being kept in a kennel. The strange cage, loud noises, weird smalls can be a lot to take in. Dogs that have been in a shelter for long periods of time exhibit more problems. They can show signs of destructiveness, fearfulness, and tendency to flee. Of course the shorter the dog is in a kennel the less detrimental the effects, but most dogs experience stress on some level when in a kennel.

Kennel Syndrome

When dogs are left in a kennel or a shelter too long,  can actually experience periods of insanity. There was a study done at University of Bristol’s Anthrozoology Institute. It included videotapes of 30 police-trained German shepherds in their kennels after work. They found that the dogs showed definite signs of stress and even temporary mental illness. Keep in mind this is for dogs with jobs and a lot of interaction throughout the day. Imagine how bad it is for dogs that hardly ever get to leave their cages.

It’s likely that short trip to the kennel will not traumatize your dog. However, it’s important to check out a kennel before hand. Also, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. Lastly, if you’re adopting a dog in from a shelter, be kind and patient as they learn the ropes of life outside of the cage.

5 Tips to Picking a Veterinarian You Love!

 

Adding a new pet to your family is very exciting. It’s important to find a good vet and start their care as soon as possible. But it is likely that you feel a little overwhelmed when you see the long list of vets in the directory. It’s not too hard to narrow down the search if you know what to consider when choosing a vet.

1. What kind of accreditation do they have?

The best veterinary hospitals are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). They regularly evaluate the practices on about 900 different standards of excellence, which means the level of care is the best in the industry. Visit their website to find an AAHA accredited vet near you.

Many clinics are also starting to offer a Fear Free certification. This is a course that teaches veterinarians to work with animals in such a way as to minimize the fear and stress involve in a vet visit. Find a Fear Free certified veterinarian near you.

2. How convenient are their hours and location?

There’s no doubt that we are busy people. That is why it is important to have a veterinarian office that is located near your home or on your daily commute. Moreover, make sure that they have the hours that fit your daily schedule. If you work long days, find a location with evening or weekend hours.

3. What type of emergency care do they offer?

Accidents and sickness happens. We can’t plan for them and unfortunately they also can happen at all hours of the night. Make sure to have a plan in place for emergency care. If the vet you choose has AAHA accreditation, there is a good chance they have 24 hour emergency services.

4. Do they have in house medical equipment and lab testing?

The best offices have in house testing and equipment. If your pet needs lab work or x-rays, the results will be faster; meaning you will know what is wrong and how to treat it as soon as possible.

5. Are there good online reviews and testimonials?

Nothing beats a face to face encounter to tell how much (or how little) you are going to like any particular office. However, in the great day and age of the internet, we have sites like Yelp.com that help shine the light behind the doors. Read reviews on community sites as well as testimonials on their website as well. This will help you get an idea if the practice is a good fit for you family.

 

After you’ve picked a vet, go for a regular check to assess the level of care. If they are a perfect, then great! If not, try again until you find the one that is just right for you.

Do you have any recommendations for veterinarian offices in the Fort Collins or Loveland area? Sound off in the comments below and let us know!

Best Collar and Leash to Use for Walking

 

The long sunny and warm days of summer are always inviting. You may find yourself walking your dog more frequently and longer while the sunlight lingers long into the evening hours. Taking your dog for walks is not only healthy, it is a fun way to bond with your pup pal. However, the bonding and fun could be cut short if you’re busy fussing over the wrong sized leash and collar.

At the pet store, the huge aisle of leashes and collars can be pretty confusing. That’s why we have a great list for you to deter the best collar and least to use while walking your dog.

  • Collars & Harnesses:

 

Standard Flat Collar

A standard collar that works for most dogs. It’s important to continue to check the size of the collar as your dog grows or gains/loses weight. You should be able to slip two fingers under the collar comfortably. This is not the best choice for dogs with long or large necks like Greyhounds or Whippets.

Martingale

The Martingale collar adjusts itself when the dog pulls on the leash. It works great for dogs that tend to pull during walks. It tightens just enough that the dog won’t slip out, but doesn’t choke or harm their neck. These are perfect for dogs who tend to get excited by every sight (SQUIRREL!) and sound.

Harness

The harness is perfect for breeds that have pushed in faces Ppugs), trachea issues (Pomeranian), or long slender necks (Italian Greyhounds).  It avoids putting pressure on their necks allowing them to walk more freely. The main draw back is that harnesses can promote pulling in some dogs.

AVOID:

Choke collars and prong/prick collars

  • Leashes:

 

Standard Leash

What is great about the standard leash is that it is also a versatile leash. You can opt for nylon, leather, or chain and they all work about the same. The best thing to remember about this type of leash is to get the right size. If you have a small dog, then a smaller lighter leash will work better than a heavy one. For a dog that chews, try the chain leash. If you walk a lot around dusk or at night, get a nylon leash with a reflection element.

Retractable

Some walkers swear by the retractable leash because it allows the dog to roam freely. However, there are some draw backs. It offers little control, meaning your dog can dart off without much warning, ripping the handle right out of your hand. Even worse, they could get into trouble while on the leash. If there is a dangerous animal, like a snake, in a shrub you won’t be able to pull them back as effectively with a retractable leash.

Slip Lead

 

 

 

 

This is like the Martingale collar, but with a leash attached. It is great for training dogs to stand by your side while you’re walking. The slip allows for safe corrections while still enjoying your walk.

 

 

There are a lot of choices out there when deciding on the best collar and leash you need for your dog. We are always here to help sort out the details. Give us a call if you want to know the type of collar and leash we would recommend for your dog.

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