05/20/2020
As I always say, it's not that we are trying to discourage business but we do want what's best for your dog. Now that you've been home for a while, your doggie is probably pretty attached to you. He/she is going to have its nose out of joint the first time you leave him/her (especially if you go back to work outside the home). As glad as we always are to see your pet, we also have some helpful ideas if you want to take your pet with you on your next trip. Lots of hotels and campgrounds (including state parks) accept dogs. If you are camping you can bring an exercise pen along with you (similar to the one I use for Keebler but probably taller) and your pet can lounge in that while you are eating, cooking, or playing outside. I also want to go on record as a promoter of crate training for your dog. Most people view crates as an undesirable confinement for their pet. Most dogs view crates as a secure, safe den-like environment. We have a dog visiting right now that had to walk by a crate that was in front of her run and she darted into the crate and refused to come back out. She only wants to leave the crate when it's time to go for 30 minute runs. And she especially likes chewing bully sticks in the crate because no one else can even see the treat, much less take it away from her. The advantage of crates is dogs can travel in them (you can find a plastic one that will fit in the back seat of your car), stay in them in a hotel room while you are at dinner, and eat and sleep better while travelling since it is their familiar "den." You may need to crate your dog your first few days back at work to keep your dog safe and secure (and avoid retaliatory behavior from your beloved companion). Even if your dog decided it hated its crate when it was a puppy, it is pretty easy to convince it that it really loves its crate--especially when the crate becomes the source of all things wonderful. Feel free to call us for helpful hints and tips on how to make your dog love its crate again.