Happy 4th of July!

The Fourth of July is a great time not only to celebrate the Nation's independence, but also to cherish time spent with family and friends -- including your dogs, of course!

While many people enjoy the fireworks display every Fourth, the noise can often scare many kids, dogs, and even some adults (I may or may not be included in this grouping...). But if you have a pooch that cowers at the sound of fireworks, there are a few steps that you can take to make things easier for him:

• Don't modify your behavior. Although it may be difficult to do, try not to cuddle your pup or talk to him in soft voices when you see him acting fearful. Rather than easing a dog's fears, this type of behavior will reinforce the dog's state of mind. Although it sounds harsh, ignoring the behavior is the best way to help your dog through his fear.
• Try not to react to the fireworks yourself. Dogs can read body language surprisingly well, so if you jump or tense up when you hear fireworks (either because you yourself are afraid or because you are anticipating your dog's fear), you may make his fear worse. Keep calm and your dog will do the same.
• Drown out the sound of the fireworks. If possible, lessen your dog's fear by subduing the sound itself. Keep your windows closed or else make sure the TV or radio is on.
• Don't push your dog past his comfort zone. If you've tried all of the above and your dog is still running to hide under the bed, just let him. Never pull your dog out from a hiding place to try to force him to overcome his fears -- this can lead to increased fear and/or aggressive behavior. Wait it out and your dog will return to his old self in no time.

One other great tool that can be used for fireworks as well as year-round thunderstorms is the Thundershirt.

 

This shirt is an inexpensive, easy-to-implement, natural way to treat anxiety in dogs. Boasting an 85% success rate, Thundershirt guarantees to soothe anxiety symptoms, many of which come from loud noises. We just brought them into the store and are amazed at how many customers swear by their effectiveness. (You can purchase one on our online store, of course!)


Whatever your plans are for this holiday weekend, make sure that you are thinking about what your dog needs to be comfortable and happy. And if your dogs are anything like mine, this probably includes plenty of park-time, a couple of doggie beers, and perhaps a dropped hamburger or two!

Happy Fourth!!

Hot Doggies!

One of my most favorite things to see while walking around downtown Savannah on any given afternoon is this:

And this:

And even this:

(this is the longest tongue I've ever seen)

However, as adorable as these guys are, I know they're just very hot and just trying to find some relief from the Savannah sun. John and I understood that moving to Savannah last year meant we had to prepare ourselves for heat the likes of which we had never seen. And just as important as making sure we stay cool is making sure that ol' Freckle Tongue (AKA Barksdale) himself can find some relief.

Check out that freckle tongue!

Over the past year we have become quite adept at making sure that no pack member overheats. I share with you now the best methods for keeping pooches cool in the hot summer sun:

#1. Make sure they have plenty of water

We use the Planet Dog Portable Water Dish (available at the store, of course!) and we are very pleased with it. It folds up nicely to fit in your short's pocket and the material is sturdy and strong. Barksdale tested, Barksdale approved. You can buy one here!

#2. Make sure they stay inside most of the day

This should go without saying, but if it's too hot for you to be outside, then it's too hot for your dog to be outside. Potty breaks are necessary, of course, but please don't leave your pups outside for any extended period of time.

#3. Take them into the water whenever possible

One of the main advantages of living in Savannah is its proximity to Hilton Head which is a great spot to take your doggie for a dip to cool down. (Just remember that they aren't allowed on the beaches after 10 am or before 5 pm during the summer season). Not only is swimming a great way for your dog to stay cool, it's also one the more adorable things to watch. Need proof? I also recommend taking your dogs to the fountain at Orleans Square for a cool-down dip.

#4. Don't be afraid to spray them down

When John and I moved down here, one of our first purchases was a spray water bottle that we use to spritz  water all over Barksdale when we go for walks. He seems to like it (after he realizes that it isn't going to hurt him), and I can't pretend that I don't enjoy "missing" BD and hitting John instead once in a while. ;)

I've also recently discovered the Canine Cooler, although we have yet to bring them into the store. It seems like you basically fill a specially designed bed with cold water and let your pup lie on it whenever he gets hot. Seems like a good idea, but they aren't cheap. Has anyone tried this product before? Would you recommend it?

Just remember: whatever you do this summer, stay cool out there. After all, they aren't called the Dog Days of Summer for nothing!