Good Dog and Beyond

01/09/2025

**🐾 Keep Your Dog Safe in Freezing Temperatures and Snow! ❄️**

As winter weather approaches North Texas, it's important to ensure your furry friends stay safe and warm. Here are some essential tips:

1. **Limit Outdoor Time**: Dogs can get frostbite and hypothermia just like humans. Limit their time outside, especially during extreme cold.
2. **Dress Warmly**: Consider a dog sweater or coat, especially for short-haired breeds. Booties can protect their paws from ice and salt.
3. **Paw Care**: After walks, wipe your dog's paws to remove any ice, salt, or chemicals. Check for cracks or redness.
4. **Provide Shelter**: If your dog spends a lot of time outside, ensure they have a warm, dry shelter. Insulate their doghouse and provide plenty of bedding.
5. **Hydration and Nutrition**: Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and a balanced diet. They may need extra calories to stay warm.
6. **Avoid Frozen Water**: Keep your dog away from frozen ponds or lakes, as the ice may not be thick enough to support their weight.
7. **Be Visible**: Shorter days mean more walks in the dark. Use reflective gear or lights to keep your dog visible.

Stay safe and enjoy the winter wonderland with your furry companion! 🐾❄️

01/04/2025

🌟🐾 **Keep Your Dog Energized and Happy!** 🐾🌟

January is National Walk Your Dog Month! 🐶🚶‍♂️

**Benefits for Your Dog:**
- Healthy weight
- Strong heart
- Robust muscles and bones
- Mental stimulation
- Reduced behavioral issues

**Benefits for You:**
- Healthy heart
- Fit body
- Strong muscles and bones
- Less stress
- Better mood

Grab your lead and enjoy quality time with your furry friend.
Let's make this month pawsome! 🐾✨

01/01/2025

Here are some quick tips to keep your dog safe and calm during New Year's fireworks:

💫Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area for your dog.
💫Use White Noise or Music: Play calming sounds to drown out fireworks.
💫Comfort Your Dog: Cuddle and reassure them if they seek comfort.
💫Distraction with Treats: Use treats or puzzle toys to keep them occupied.
💫Exercise Beforehand: Tire them out with a long walk or playtime.
💫Anti-Anxiety Products: Consider talking to your vet about medications or products
like pheromone diffusers.
💫Stay Calm: Your calm demeanor can help soothe your dog.
💫Keep Them Indoors: Ensure your dog stays inside during fireworks.
💫Close Curtains and Blinds: Block out the flashes of light.
💫Plan Ahead: Prepare in advance with your dog's favorite toys and comfort items.

These steps can help make the celebrations more bearable for your furry friend. 🐾

12/25/2024

Christmas and Hanukkah on the Same Day!

From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous holiday season filled with love and happiness.

12/24/2024

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the town,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a hound.

The leashes were hung by the doorway with care,
In hopes that Good Dog and Beyond soon would be there.

The puppies were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of training treats danced in their heads.
And Molly in her collar, and Sammi in his cap, Had just settled down for a long winter's nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, Winston sprang from his bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window he flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to his wondering eyes should appear, but Betti, the trainer, with a smile ear to ear.

With a bag full of treats, so lively and quick, he knew in a moment it must be their trainer, Betti.
More rapid than eagles her instructions they came, And she whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:

"Now Molly! Now Sammi! Now Winston, let's go!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the show! Let's practice our sit, our stay, and our heel, with positive training, we'll make it a deal!"

She went straight to her work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying her finger aside of her nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney she rose.

She sprang to her sleigh, to her team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard her exclaim, ere she drove out of sight "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

12/22/2024

**Transforming Canine Companionship through Tailored Positive Training**

Discover Betti's positive and science-based training techniques that cultivate strong canine-human relationships. Her enthusiastic coaching style ensures your dog's enjoyment while achieving exceptional results for both pets and owners.

- People and Dog Relationship Centric: We focus on building strong bonds between dogs and their owners.
- Committed to Enrichment: We prioritize the well-being and enrichment of both the dog and the owner.
- Dependable and Reliable: You can count on us to deliver results.
- Personalized Training: Every dog is evaluated, and training is tailored to their specific needs.
- Diverse Training Locations: We offer training in various environments, including parks, airports, cars, restaurants, stadiums, and businesses.
- Respect and Positive Reinforcement: Every dog is treated with respect, and all training is rewards-based with positive reinforcement.
- Owner Participation and Follow-Up: We encourage owner participation and provide follow-up to ensure lasting results.

Our approach is designed to ensure that both you and your dog have a positive and rewarding experience. Let's discuss your needs and develop a customized training plan that exceeds your expectations.

12/19/2024

Holiday Safety Alert for Pet Owners! 🐾🎄

Keep your furry friends safe this season by avoiding these poisonous holiday plants:

Holly: Causes stomach upset.

Mistletoe: Affects blood pressure.

Poinsettias: Mild irritation.

Amaryllis: Can cause vomiting.

Lilies: Irritates mouth.

Keep these out of reach to ensure a joyful and safe holiday for all! 🐶❤️

Stay safe and enjoy the holidays! 🎅🐾

12/14/2024

Socialize Your Dog for a Happier Life!

Socializing your dog ensures they react to the world in a healthy way, without fear or aggression. Dogs who haven't been socialized can become fearful in new situations, such as meeting new people, being around other pets, or visiting new places.

At Good Dog and Beyond, our Socialization Programs prepare your dog for new situations and opportunities! Proper socialization will give your dog the skills to handle any new situation with confidence.

Good dog socialization benefits you and your dog in countless ways throughout your relationship! For more information, go to https://www.gooddogandbeyond.com/our-training-programs

*photo credit AKC



Feel free to tweak it to match your style!

12/13/2024

Thinking about getting a new puppy for Christmas? Give your furry friend the best start with Good Dog and Beyond's Puppy 101 training program. Designed for puppies aged 8 to 16 weeks, this program focuses on early training and gradual skill progression, ensuring your new companion is well-behaved and responsive to both verbal commands and hand signals. It's the perfect gift to go along with your new bundle of joy! For more information, contact us at [email protected]

12/06/2024

Thinking of gifting a puppy for Christmas? Make sure you're truly prepared!

Puppies are not just adorable presents; they're a long-term commitment. Here are a few things to consider before bringing home a furry friend:

1. Time: Puppies need lots of attention and training. Are you ready for the daily walks, playtime, and socialization they require?

2. Costs: Beyond the initial cost, there's food, vet visits, grooming, and more. Can you manage these expenses?

3. Space: Do you have enough space for a playful pup to roam safely?

4. Lifestyle: A puppy will change your daily routine. Are you ready to adjust your lifestyle to meet their needs?

5. Long-term Commitment: Puppies grow up. Are you prepared for 10-15 years (or more) of care and companionship?

Adopting a pet is a beautiful experience, but it comes with responsibilities that last long after the holiday season ends. Make sure you're ready to provide a forever home.

11/29/2024

Here’s a little leftover recipe for your furry friends! Enjoy

Easy, 4-ingredient Homemade Dog Treats perfectly use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey (or chicken)! They freeze great - make them ahead as DIY holiday gifts!

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving! Don’t do it! Hope you all have a wonderful day from Good Dog and Beyond 🍁🦃🍽❤️🏈

11/27/2024

Ensure your pet's safety during Thanksgiving with these key tips:

# # # Food Safety
- **Avoid Toxic Foods:** Keep turkey skin, garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, and chocolate away from your pet.
- **No Bones:** Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage.
- **Safe Treats:** Stick to small portions of plain, boneless, and skinless turkey, and unseasoned vegetables like carrots or green beans.

# # # Travel Safety
- **Vet Visit:** Schedule a check-up before traveling.
- **Secure Transport:** Use a seat belt harness or crate, and take breaks for stretching and hydration.
- **Avoid Hot Cars:** Never leave your pet in a hot car.

# # # Family Interactions
- **Quiet Space:** Provide a retreat from noise and activity.
- **Supervise Interactions:** Introduce pets slowly and supervise interactions with other pets and children.
- **Stress Reduction:** Use calming music or white noise.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving for your furry friend. Happy Thanksgiving!

11/25/2024

“Good people are those who love animals. Animals are special beings and anyone who has been lucky enough to have a connection with them knows it all too well. Animal nobility is a true teaching. Because of them we are more humble, empathetic, caring people. They give us their love unconditionally, without asking for anything in return, doing us good." 🐾🕊️💞❤️

(Keanu Reeves)

11/25/2024

I know you are all getting ready for the holiday week. Here are some tips for communicating with your dog sitter over Thanksgiving:
Clear Instructions
- **Holiday Routine:** Provide a holiday schedule including meal times, walks, and any special activities.
- **Diet and Medication:** Outline any special holiday treats (safe for dogs) and medication instructions.
Emergency Information
- **Contact Numbers:** Leave your contact info and an emergency contact.
- **Vet Information:** Provide your vet’s details and relevant medical history.
House Rules
- **Boundaries:** Inform the sitter of any off-limit areas.
- **Behavioral Guidelines:** Explain any specific training or quirks, especially around guests.

Communication Preferences
- **Updates:** Decide on the frequency and method of updates (text, email, etc.).
- **Photos and Videos:** Encourage the sitter to share photos and videos, especially during the festivities.
Supplies and Essentials
- **Supplies Location:** Show where to find food, treats, toys, leashes, and holiday-specific items.
- **Checklist:** Create a checklist of daily tasks and special instructions.

By providing clear instructions and maintaining open communication, you can ensure your dog is well-cared for during the Thanksgiving holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!

11/23/2024

This will make you smile!

11/19/2024

Planning a trip with your dog during the holidays?

Ensure a smooth journey with these tips:

1. Vet Visit: Schedule a health check-up to ensure your dog is fit for travel. Don't forget to bring any necessary medications.
2. Packing Essentials: Pack food, water, bowls, a leash, waste bags, and your dog's favorite toys and blanket for comfort.
3. Travel Documents: If you're traveling across state lines or internationally, make sure you have your dog's health records and any required travel documents.
4. Car Safety: Use a seat belt harness or a crate to keep your dog secure. Take frequent breaks for stretching, bathroom needs, and hydration.
5. Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short time. Temperatures can rise quickly and be dangerous.
6. Accommodations: Check that your accommodations are pet-friendly and understand their pet policies.
7. Routine: Try to maintain your dog's regular feeding and exercise routine to reduce stress.
8. Social Interactions: When visiting someone else's home with other dogs and children, introduce your dog slowly and supervise interactions to ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe.
9. Emergency Plan: Have a plan in case of emergencies, including the contact information of a local vet at your destination.

Enjoy your adventure together!

11/13/2024

World Kindness Day is a perfect time to show your dog some extra love and appreciation. Here are some thoughtful acts of kindness you can do for your furry friend:

1. **Special Treats**: Prepare or buy some healthy, delicious treats that your dog loves.
2. **Extra Playtime**: Spend more time playing your dog's favorite games, whether it's fetch, tug-of-war, or a puzzle toy.
3. **Long Walks**: Take your dog on an extra-long walk or to a new park for a change of scenery and new smells.
4. **Spa Day**: Give your dog a relaxing bath and grooming session, complete with a gentle massage.
5. **New Toys**: Surprise your dog with a new toy to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated.
6. **Quality Time**: Simply spend more quality time together, whether it's cuddling on the couch or sitting outside enjoying the fresh air.

These small acts can make a big difference in your dog's happiness and well-being. How do you plan to celebrate with your dog? 🐶💖