Tag Archive for: fort collins dog

How to Safely Take Your Dog to Work

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Did you know that June 26th is Pet Sitters International’s 17th annual Take Your Dog to Work DayⓇ? It’s a special day of the year where businesses around the world will let you bring your dog to work. You get to bring your special furry friend to work to celebrate the wonderful relationship humans have with dogs and to promote pet adoption.

After all, dogs do make some of the best companions and bringing them with you on a regular day on the job is tons of fun. However, there are a few things to check on to make sure the day is still productive, as well as peaceful.

Go over this checklist before packing up your dog for a day at the office.

1. Check with your office:  Some offices don’t allow dogs no matter what the day is, so check with your boss beforehand.

2. Make sure your dog is fit for socializing: Make sure your dog’s shots are current and that they are feeling well. Even friendly dog’s can be aggressive if they’re sick.

3. Puppy-proof your work area: Remove poisonous plants, toxic chemical and hide electrical cords. Also, put away any office items that could get chewed up or swallowed.

4. Plan breaks and lunch according to your work schedule: Make sure to plan potty break and feeding in between any pressing matters such as phone conferences or meetings.

5. Pack them a lunch and goodie bag: Don’t forget to bring a doggie bag for Fido! Pack up food, treats, bowls, toys, leash and clean up items.

6. Don’t force interactions: Even if your dog is extremely friendly, don’t force him to interact with co-worker’s. Some people aren’t dog people (strange, but true!) and also the office can be an intimidating space for your dog.

7. Have a backup plan: Hope for the best and plan for the worst. Make sure you’d be able to leave to take them home if they start to get overly active or upset.

 

Take Your Dog to Work Day is a fun time to let your dog in on what goes on when you leave for the day. Instead of being like Max on Secret Life of Pets, waiting and wondering all day while his owner is gone, they’ll know where you go!

 

If you prefer to listen, we also recorded a Podcast on the subject!

Important Items to Bring When Hiking with Your Dog

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I don’t know about you, but disconnecting from the world and getting out into nature is one of my favorite things. However much fun it can be, it does have the potential to be dangerous if you’re not prepared. This is even more true if you decided to bring your canine companion with you. Luckily, with a few important items hiking with your dog can be one of the best ways to spend the day.

 

Doggy Backpack

Image result for dog backpack

Hiking with your dog does mean extra supplies, so make them carry their own backpack with an extra leash and other supplies. Make sure not to overload it, the general rule is for the pack to weigh one pound to every 20 lbs of pup.

Collapsible Food and Water Bowls

Image from Amazon

A perfect item for you dog’s backpack is a collapsible bowl set for their food and water. This way no matter where on the trail you are, both of you can take a break for hydration and trail mix.

Paw Protecting Dog Booties

Image from Amazon

If you’re navigating particularly rocky terrain or if your dog is somewhat new to being outside on rough ground you may want to pack a pair of these puppy paw protecting boots. These are also perfect for hot pavement or sand.

 

Heavy Duty Waste Bags

Image from Amazon

The rule of the trail is what you pack in, you pack out. This is the same for waste unless your on a trail that allows you to scoop and bury someone off the main path. Either way packing heavy duty scent eliminating bags is essential. You may also want to bring a compact bag dispenser for them as well.

 

Me & My Dog Medical Kit

Image from Amazon

Bring a first aid kit is a hiking must, but having one made for both you and your dog is helpful and saves space of bringing extra doggy necessities on top of your own first aid kit.

 

Other things to consider

  • Make sure your dog is trained well enough to obey commands while hiking
  • Bring bug spray and sunscreen for both of you (baby/kid friendly products work well for dogs)
  • Update ID’s and/or microchip and bring an extra set of tags if you can
  • Snap a picture of your dog before you head out
  • Make sure their shots are up to date

 

Hiking is blast. But it is more than just fun in the woods, being prepared is key to a successful trip.

What trails do you like to take with your dog? Let us know your favorite trails and hiking with your dog tips!

 

How to Support People Who Have Guide Dogs

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We’ve all seen and maybe even wondered about guide dogs and the people that need them. As you probably already know, guide dogs are used by visually disabled persons. Whether they are fully blind or have low vision for travel safety, these dogs help them traverse throughout the day. And what they do really is very special. Aside from being a loving companion, they are truly a wonderful mobility tool.

According to Vision Aware, “The guide dog is a “mobility aid” that can enable people who are blind or have low vision to travel safely. Guide dogs can guide people around obstacles and through crowds, stop at curbs and stairs, and sometimes even be trained to find a limited number of objects that are within sight when given orders such as “Find the chair,” “Find the door,” or “Find the elevator.” The guide dog user can also train (or “pattern”) the dog to find frequently used landmarks, such as a bus stop pole or a mailbox (source).”

guide dogs

How to you can help support people with guide dogs:

It is interesting to note that there is an estimated 1.3 million people in the U.S. that are legally blind. And that each year 75,000 more people in the United States will become blind or visually impaired (source). However, there are only approximately 10,000 guide dog teams currently working in the United States. We’ve also learned another statistic that shows only about 2% of all people who are blind and visually impaired have worked with guide dogs.

The reason that percentage is so low isn’t just because people don’t feel them necessary. It is actually quite costly to match a dog. It is Guide Dogs of America‘s mission to match dogs with their perfect blind partner, which costs on average about $48,000. While that seems like a lot think of all of the costs involved. From vaccinations and spaying to training and micro chipping, not to mention boarding, feeding, grooming and the matching services themselves. It takes a lot to make it possible. That’s why donations are always appreciated. Also, learn more about donating here in Colorado with the Canine Partners of the Rockies.

Lending a hand at a local facility is also a great way to help. Centers often need clerical/office assistance, puppy sitting/playing and help with marketing events. The more hands helping, the more the available resources can be used to the fullest of their ability.

  • Be Respectful:

Aside from directly helping, you can help every day by being respectful of guide dogs when you see them. Even though the seem very approachable (and are quite adorable in their vests), they are working. So make sure not to try to give them any special attention, treats or pats on the head.

 

No small act of kindness is too little to help guide dogs and their partners navigate through life. Do you have experience with guide dogs? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

 

Summer Activities with Your Dog
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Top 5 Pet Friendly Restaurants in Fort Collins

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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!

 

Read About Places to Take Your Dog in Fort Collins
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6 Places to Go With Your Dog in Fort Collins

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Fort Collins is a very dog friendly town and there are plenty of places to explore with your pooch. Keep in mind that Fort Collins recently changed its health code rule. That means, often times pet dogs are not allowed inside outdoor patios any longer, but can be right outside the fence.

Sierra Trading Post

Who doesn’t love Sierra Trading Post, the discount outdoor wares store? Now fido can love it with you too. Sierra Trading Post is extremely dog friendly and loves to see pups in their store. You and your dog can check out their awesome pet section and maybe even pick out a new harness.

Bath Garden Center

Does your doggy love picking out new plants (or better yet, picking out new things to pee on)? Then head on over to Bath Garden Center. This store is very dog friendly inside and out and even has their own store foster dog. Just be sure to keep an eye on your dog, you don’t want him peeing on a plant that isn’t yours yet!

Home Depot

This large warehouse store is friendly to dogs. Many dogs love perusing the isles and getting to greet the friendly people who work there.

Jax

This outdoor recreation store is extremely dog friendly. Your dog will love getting to say “Hi!” to the friendly employees and plan for your next adventure with you.

Walrus Ice Cream

While this beloved ice cream shop does not allow dogs inside, they do have a special treat for canine companions. Every Sunday is dog day! Where Fido can get a bit of doggy ice cream to enjoy with you. Busy on Sunday? That’s okay, you can ask for a doggy scoop of vanilla ice cream to share with your dog.

Gryphon Games and Comics and the Purple Cup Cafe

Even though dogs are not allowed inside the coffee area, they are welcome to go into the store and hang out in the game area. Dogs love to go shopping with their folks and enjoy the sunshine!

General Guidelines for Taking Your Pet With You:

  • Always keep your dog leashed, on a hand held (non-retractable) leash
  • Always be under your control
  • Should be potty trained
  • Have all his shots and be healthy (for his and other dogs protection)
  • And be friendly to other dogs and strangers

It’s always fun to bring your pet with you with you’re out an about. Just make sure your pet is comfortable and follow the above guidelines for a good time. Also, brush up on the newest leash laws too.

Do you have a favorite place to take your pet? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Find the best Fort collins dog trails!
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5 Questions to Ask Your Vet at Your Next Visit

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When you’re getting ready for your yearly physical, you probably have a few questions prepared for your doctor. And it’s smart to have them prepared ahead of time. Because if you’re like me, by time you’re in the back room, chances are you’ll forget to ask at least one thing you were concerned about.

The same should go for your pet at their regular wellness checks as well. There are just as many, if not more distractions at the vet. Sometimes that leaves you floundering for words and just hoping to get out unscathed.

Having a few good questions jotted down for easy reference will go a long way in making you get the most out of your pet’s vet visit.

1. Is my pet overweight?

Being on top of your pet’s weight is important. According to the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention, more than half of the dogs and cats are overweight in the U.S. Even though we are almost conditioned to think “a fat pet is a happy pet,” that’s not true. Obesity sets them up for a whole slew of complications such as, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and more.

2. What is the best food for my pet?

This question almost goes hand in hand with the weight question, but it is still beneficial for average weight pets as well. Not all pet food is created equal and some foods have fatty fillers and sub-par ingredients. Tell your vet what food you regularly feed your pet. Also, as they age dietary needs can change. Ask them what they feel is an appropriate diet for them considering their age and weight.

3. Do you have any recommendations for flea/tick meds?

Flea and ticks are not just a problem for the spring and summer. They can actually be a threat all year round. More than just a nuisance, they can transmit deadly diseases too. Depending on the time of year and your pet’s health in general, your vet may have a better way of protecting your pet.

4.Does my pet need a dental cleaning?

Often forgotten, but still very important is dental health. Recent surveys state that an estimated 80% of adult dogs and 70% of adult cats suffer from a least some degree of periodontal disease. If dental hygiene is ignored too long, it can result serious health issues with the liver, kidney, heart. Your vet should have some easy and painless ways to help.

5. Is this normal?

This is the general behavior or health question to ask your vet. It’s whatever may concern you about your pet. Like do they have a quirky behavior, a weird eating/sleeping habit? Or you may be worried about lumps or bumps on their skin. Reserve this question to fit what concerns you about your pet specifically.

A little bit of planning goes a long way in making sure you get all the answers you need. Doctors and vet visits are stressful enough as it is, no need to add stress to it by being unprepared.

Do you have any additional questions you like to ask your vet? Let us know in the comments!

Socializing Your Adult Dog

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Most pet parents know it is best to socialize your pooch at a young age. Ideally when they are the most sensitive, between three and 20 weeks of age. As they age, it is increasingly difficult for a puppy to accept anything new and unfamiliar. But what if you’ve recently adopted an adult dog companion, or you weren’t able to acclimate your pup to social situations due to illness or lack of time? Whatever the reason may be, it doesn’t mean he has to settle for a life void of pet friends and social interaction.

adult dogs

Dog-to-dog socialization

This is usually pretty simple with pups; they can be let loose together to learn how to interact and play. However, the same scenario can be catastrophic with adult dogs. Mature dogs, typically between the ages of 1-3 years, do not necessarily enjoy being in large groups of unfamiliar dogs. Your Fido may attempt to avoid the other dogs, stand closely by your side, or even snap and growl. Rather than putting your furry friend in a stressful situation, try these tips.

Start with daily walks

and introduce him to other pets and people as the opportunity arises. Walks are wonderful for socializing dogs as they’ll have less pent-up energy resulting from exercise, making them calmer and more submissive. During your daily walks, maintain a calm yet assertive energy; avoid pulling back on his leash or yelling if he barks or acts up as doing so will only increase his level of excitement and create a negative experience. Practice using a quick sideways tug on the leash or a simple touch to distract him as needed.

Introductions to other pets and people should be gradual. Invite a friend with a gentle, easy-going dog to join you on a walk. Keep a polite distance between the two pooches while they get to know one another. If both appear at ease, allow them to sniff each other, keeping their leashes loose and their interaction brief. However, if either dog appears to stiffen up, call your dog to you with a soft, relaxed voice; and if they wag their tails and remain at ease, consider an off-leash playdate in a fenced area, using the same brief sessions and positive reinforcement.

Don’t rush things

Try to introduce your adult dog to one new activity per week. For example, take him to the local dog park, but rather than throwing him into the mix and hoping for the best, start by exposing him to the scene with a leashed walk around the outside of the fence, allowing him to see the other dogs playing and having fun.

Socialization of any kind is beneficial and enjoyable for your furry buddy. Be patient, gentle and kind, and remember, making new friends can be taxing, for dogs and people alike!

 

Read: 6 Causes of a Fearful Dog
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Bulldogs are Beautiful Day

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We know that we don’t really need a special day to appreciate the beauty of bulldogs, but why not take the to celebrate them anyway, right?!  With their short little legs and adorable smushed faces and sturdy physique, they are truly a breed of their own.

 

Early history:

Early Bulldogs have a bit of an interesting and brutal history. Butchers used to use dogs to control control livestock. This can be traced back to the 5th century in England and a breed called the Alaunt. Around the 15th century, bulldogs were used for around farms for catching horses, cattle, and boars. Unfortunately, bulldogs were also used in the barbaric “sport” called bull-baiting, in which trained dogs would latch onto a tethered bull’s nose and not let go until the dog had pulled the bull to the ground or the bull had killed the dog (source). And, thankfully this was finally banned in 1835.

The newer breed:

Well, after the brutality was finally banned Bulldogs found their place in the world. They were still used for herding in the US and Germany and were being bred with smaller dogs, like pugs in England. They slowly made a huge comeback becoming a wildly popular companion and mascot for Universities like Georgia State University and Gonzaga University.

 

Temperament & Training:

Don’t let their grumpy face and stout build fool you. Bulldog are generally they are an easy going breed that gets along with people, other pets and even children. They aren’t big on barking and love to sleep. The AKC Standard says the disposition of the English Bulldog is usually “calm, courageous, and friendly; dignified but amusing.” They are also ranked at the 4th most popular breed according to the AKC.

Even though bulldogs may have a reputation for being stubborn, but that doesn’t mean that they are untrainable. With patience and consistency they can easily be trained just like any other dog. The sooner you can bond with and start to train your bulldog the better.

 

Cute Famous Bulldogs:

My personal favorite is Meatball, Adam Sandler’s bulldog. I may be a little biased because I am a huge fan. Plus, he sent me an autograph picture after I sent him a Valentine’s Day card back in 1996. But here he is, Meatball, the adorable bulldog!

bulldogs

Photo from Adam Sandler

And of course, Ice T and Coco’s beloved Bulldogs Spartacus (RIP) and Maximus. They are so cute with baby Chanel!

bulldogs

Photo from ET

Tillman, who is a skateboarding English Bulldog that happens to hold the Guinness World Record for the fastest 100-meter on a skateboard by a dog. And when Tillman appeared on the show, Greatest American Dog, and he rode the Natural Balance float in the Rose Parade in 2009. And well, that is pretty amazing!

Bulldogs

Photo from Bulldogs World

And no Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day post would be complete without a hilarious YouTube video of them playing around and being silly…enjoy!

Do you have a bulldog? If so, make sure to share your pictures with us! Post on our Facebook page and Twitter, let us know your loves!

What are the Leash Laws in Fort Collins?

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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.

Benefits of Off Leash Dog Parks
Disadvantages of Off Leash Dog Parks

Fun Things to Do with Your Dog in the Snow

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It may seem like winter weather has to limit you and your dog’s activities, but there are lots of fun activities for you and Fido when it’s snowing. Many dogs love playing in the snow so here are some activities to try.

Snowball Fights

Snowballs are a dog’s dream! They are edible balls that can be chased and caught. After a fresh snow, go outside with you dog and start throwing snowballs. Many dogs will try and catch them in their mouth, while others will simply chase the snowball. You can also try throwing a tennis ball or another brightly colored ball around the snow. Be sure to keep an eye on your ball or it will get lost in the snow.

Search and Rescue 

We have all heard about the amazing dogs that find and rescue people after avalanches, your dog can do (almost) the same thing. Start by burying your dog’s favorite toy or treats in the snow. The first few times let your dog watch you bury the object so that he gets the idea. Do not bury the toy too deep, just so it is barely covered by the snow. Then let your dog loose to find the the toy or treats. When your dog catches on to the game, bury the objects a little deeper in the snow.

Snowshoeing

When there is a lot of snow on the ground, snowshoeing with your dog is a fun activity for both of you. Leash your dog up and hit the trails. I would recommend using  a long leash (if in an open area) so that your dog is free to bound ahead or explore a bit more. Keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife or other hazards to your dog.

Sledding

There are many forms of sledding you can do with your dog. There is of course what we think of as dog sledding, seven dogs tied to a sled running through Alaska, and the more relaxed version you can do at home. For the less serious version of dog sledding find a small, lightweight sled and a harness for your dog. Attach a leash to the harness and the leash to the sled. Most dogs will not move on their own so I would bait your dog with food or get him to follow you. You can leave the sled empty or put a light child or object in the sled.

While winter is a great time to curl up next to the fireplace with your dog, it is also a fun time to get outside. Be sure to take proper precautions while playing outside. Do not stay outside for extended periods of time when it is very cold and keep your dog hydrated.