Luvk9s Dog Training

Hot fun in the summertime


It’s summertime, and as Porgy noted, “the livin’ is easy.” This is the time for traveling and vacationing, often with your canine companion in tow.
      

Pet friendly lodging

      

 The list of pet-friendly lodging continues to grow. Most La Quinta, Motel 6 and Red Roof Inns allow dogs to stay for free. Many Best Western hotels also allow dogs to stay for free.

Other pet friendly hotels include Aloft Hotels, Kimpton Hotels, Virgin Hotels, Loews Hotels and Sheraton Hotels. Many Hyatt and Doubletree properties are also beginning to allow pets.

Always call ahead to confirm whether the property you are interested in allows pets, as some locations may have exceptions due to local ordinances. Check if there are any weight restrictions or limitations to the number of pets per room. And always confirm if there is an additional cost for your pet as policies do change.
     

                                                                
Dog beaches in the southeast           

             

The Atlanta Journal and Constitution recently published a list of 10 of America’s best dog-friendly beaches. 

Beaches in the southeast included Jekyll Island, GA; Bald Head Island, NC; Fort Myers Beach (Lee county), FL; Smyrna Dunes Park, FL and Myrtle Beach SC.

I have two favorites that weren’t listed that I’ve frequented. Brohard Paw Park in Venice FL has a large dog park as well as access to a large, sandy beach just for dogs. Hilton Head Island is also very dog friendly; beach hours for dogs during the summer are before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

When taking your dog to the beach, be sure to take along a bowl for fresh water, doggie bags to pick up dog waste and a beach umbrella to provide shade if necessary. Familiarize yourself with the signs of heat stroke and dehydration. And keep in mind that not all dogs are natural swimmers; bring along a life vest if you’re not sure.
   

   

Eating at an outside restaurant patio  

  
Many restaurants allow well-mannered dogs on their outside patios; be sure to call ahead and check before you bring your dog. If your dog isn’t experienced at eating outside at a restaurant, it’s helpful to do reconnaissance and determine the best place to sit with your pet. Look for a table that is away from the door, away from other tables (the edge of the patio as opposed to the middle of the patio) and away from general human traffic.

Be considerate and remember that not everybody loves dogs or appreciates them being near their table. Be sure your dog can do a down stay in distracting environments so as not to disturb other diners. Don’t bring your dog if he is a barker. The dog should be kept off the furniture and should not be fed from the table.

Set your dog up for success; tire him out before dinner. Remember that a tired dog is a good dog. Feeding him before you go is also helpful. Bring along something quiet for your dog to chew on to keep him busy.

Keep your dog on a short regular leash – flexi retractable leashes can be very dangerous in a restaurant environment. Do not allow your dog to go to other tables to meet and greet. Don’t tie the leash to a table or chair; I’ve seen dogs pull furniture over. It’s better to hold on to the leash, sit on it or keep your feet on the leash.
   

   

Additional dog summer safety tips
   

 Conscientious dog owners are aware of the dangers of summer heat, but the tips bear repeating.

  • It can take less than 10 minutes for a dog to develop heat stroke inside a hot vehicle, so never leave your dog unattended in the car when it’s hot outside.

  • Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when its cooler.

  • Know the signs of heat stroke: heavy panting, red gums, redness around eyes, thick drool, vomiting, diarrhea and collapse. If your dog starts to exhibit these symptoms, move him to a cool place, give him cool (not cold) water to drink, cover the dog with a damp, cool towel and in extreme cases, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

  • If you have a dog with short white fur or a hairless breed, your dog’s skin may be at risk from the sun. Consider having your dog sport a sun block shirt or use sunscreen specifically made for dogs.

  • Black top asphalt gets very hot and can hurt your dog’s pads. Check the temperature of asphalt by touching it, and if it’s hot to the touch, walk your dog on grass or on the sidewalk instead.

  • This is tick season, so be sure to check your dog for ticks every time he comes in from the outdoors. When checking for ticks, make sure you look under the tail, on the stomach, in the ears and between the toes.

  • Always have plenty of water available for your dog; this will keep your dog cool and hydrated.