Tip #1: Plan and reserve your spot

Don't make the rookie mistake of waiting until the last minute to reserve a tailgating spot. Some locations use a lottery system and have individual parking lots that are more convenient than others.

Also, tailgating regulations vary from place to place — check the website to review the tailgating policies and parking lot guidelines. You'll find rules about start and end times for tailgating, pets, sound systems, alcohol, trash, charcoal disposal, catering rules, recycling, and more as well as information about what you can and can't bring into the stadium.

Tip #2: Bring your A-game with the food

Since the quickest way to anyone's heart is through their stomach, a straightforward approach to keep your friends around is to bring your A-game with the food. Fire up the grill — chicken, steak, burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue are all great tailgate choices. Include vegetarian or vegan options, too.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Start by shredding the meat from a rotisserie chicken. If you're feeling fancy, you can poach (or roast) and chop your chicken. Then, mix the shredded chicken with cream cheese, sour cream, cheese (we used a blend of melty Monterey Jack and classic blue cheese crumbles), scallions, lemon juice, and — of course — buffalo sauce.

What is buffalo sauce?

Classic buffalo sauce from a mixture of chile-based hot sauce, butter (for richness), vinegar, and seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and salt is best. We used Frank's RedHot — it's a classic and a staple in the Good Housekeeping test kitchen.

Watermelon Helmet

This festive fruit bowl is a simple and affordable option that's ideal for game day. Cut a watermelon in the shape of a helmet, scoop it out fill with fruit, and the watermelon. Done.

Chicken Wings

One savory Super Bowl snack will always reign supreme: the mighty chicken wing when it comes to game day. Wings are messy but fun to eat, and they're a reliable hit at your annual Super Bowl party. They're also remarkably versatile, so whether you're Team Baked, Deep-Fried, Spicy, or Sweet, there are plenty of saucy chicken wings recipes out there for you. Talk about a winner.

Tip #3: Gameday décor

Embrace the team spirit and bring on the game day décor. Some universities or organizations broadcast tailgating highlights or present awards and prizes to the most spirited or best tailgate. If you want a chance to win or see your crew on the jumbotron, be sure to deck out your tailgating spot (and yourself!) in team colors and gear.

Tip #4: Entertain your guests

A little pregame competition can heighten the energy at your tailgate. Here are some fun ways to entertain your guests.

Cornhole

You can buy these boards in stores or, if you enjoy DIY projects, hand-craft your own set with an online tutorial. Rules are simple — teammates stand on opposite ends and toss bean bags, scoring three points for getting the bag into the hole and one for getting it on the board. The first team to 21 points wins.

Ladder Golf

Like cornhole, you can buy a ladder toss/golf set or make your own. Individuals or teams can play. There are two ladders placed apart, and the object of the game is to wrap your bolas (two balls attached to a rope) around the steps of the ladder. The top rung is worth three points, the middle two, and the bottom one.

Football or Pet Toss Toy

And bring a football! Easy and simple. Nothing beats tossing around a football on game day! Or a Pet Toss Toy is another option.

Tip #5: Bring the right mix of music playlist

Music makes or breaks a party, and you need it if you want students to stick around. Be sure to bring speakers with reasonable volume to make your presence known and help your guests get excited about the game. If strangers walk by bobbing their heads — or better yet, stop to join your tailgate — you're doing something right.

Tip #6: Pack your car with this tailgating checklist!

Avoid the "oops, I forgot the napkins" scenario. (Once you're on location, last-minute grocery shopping is a major hassle if not downright impossible.) We have a great guide to help you travel with your pet, Pet-Friendly Vacation Planning & Activities.

Tip #7: Make it count

You've probably been missing your friends and games and naturally want to make every second count. Don't leave your pets out of the fun. When you represent your team colors with pride, you reinforce that they need to create a new, independent life and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Camping may be combined with hiking, as in backpacking, and often enjoyed in conjunction with other outdoor activities such as canoeing, climbing, fishing, and hunting. Fastpacking involves both running and camping.

When going camping with your pets for the first time, start with an overnight campout and keep it simple:

• To save money, borrow or rent big-ticket gear.
• To maximize your comfort, always bring appropriate clothes for cold and rain.
• To satisfy your fresh-air-fueled hunger, bring plenty of food.
• To keep your options open, camp close to home. (There's no shame in bailing if problems arise.)
• To ensure you get an excellent first impression, postpone your campout if the weather forecast is awful.
• To be sure you leave a good feeling for those who come after you, make sure you follow Leave No Trace principles.

You can keep your initial investment low if you borrow or rent the priciest items. The tent, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are useful items to get from a friend if you can for your first adventure.

That's a better strategy than paying bottom dollar for something that might not last for a single camping trip. If you are ready to invest in your very own camping gear, here are a few tips to help you decide what to buy.

• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is a handy thing to have. First aid kits come in many shapes and sizes. 
• Dome Tents: The least expensive tents tend to be heavier, less durable, and less waterproof. The most costly tents, used by backpackers and professional adventurers, are usually lighter in weight, more durable, and more waterproof.
• Camp Stove: A cooking stove specially designed to be portable and lightweight, used in camping, picnicking, backpacking, or other use in remote locations where an easily transportable means of cooking or heating is needed.
• Sleeping Bag: An insulated covering for a person, mostly a lightweight quilt that can be closed with a zipper or similar means to form a tube, which functions as thin, portable bedding. In situations where a person is sleeping outdoors (e.g., when camping, hiking, hill walking, or climbing). Its primary purpose is to provide warmth and thermal insulation through its synthetic or down insulation. 
• Air Mattresses or Sleeping Pads: The deflated mattress can be rolled up or folded and carried or stored relatively quickly, making them a popular choice for camping trips and temporary bedding at home for guests. They are inflated either orally by blowing into a valve, or with a manual foot-powered or more commonly inflated via an electric pump. Some are even automatically raising just by opening the valve.
• Lighting: Light up the night with flashlights, headlamps, lanterns, spotlights, or tactical lights. Whether it's to get extra light at the campsite or come to the rescue during a power outage, using a lamp or flashlight will always come in handy.
• Cooler: When considering an outdoor beverage cooler, there are a few considerations you need to make. Will this need to be a cooler with wheels or strictly a patio cooler? Maybe you want a cooler with speakers to listen to your tunes while entertaining guests.
• Utensils: The basics, try to use nonplastic materials or items that can be cleaned and reused. Always practice removing whatever you bring in with you and try not to leave a trace. Bring a new set of dog bowls to show off your team pride.
• Comfort Items: Your special blanket, music devices, and whatever else you can jam in your vehicle will make it feel just a little more like home. Your pet's favorite bed or pillow will make everything feel more comfortable.

Now it's time to get outdoors and setting up camp. Your camping supplies are in your vehicle, you followed our tips above, and you are ready to get car camping. But where?

Glad you asked, There is no shortage of camping locations in the National Park Service -- there are over 130 park units to choose! Use the map here to find a park with camping opportunities. Each site will link you directly to that park's website.

Ok, the car is ready, we found a place, and it's finally time to go. Leave early, so you can get to your site scope out the land and find your perfect spot. Unfortunately, the first step includes cleaning; we waited until now to bring it up so you wouldn't get discouraged.

We aren't saying start washing your car and doing the windows, but instead cleaning up your exact spot, you will be camping. Start by gathering up all the rocks that you could use to create a fire pit and pile them where you will eventually build a fire.

You will want to continue cleaning with large branches and long pieces of kindling. Pile these resources alongside your fire pit for easy access when you begin starting a fire. Don't forget to look all around your fire pit high and low for any possible items that can quickly catch fire and cause you problems.

Now that you cleaned up your spot gathered all the timber near your camp and it looks nice, lets set up your tent. It's a good idea when setting up your tent to check the wind's direction and will be blowing that evening. When the campfire burns, smoke will not be filling your sleeping area if you place it downwind. 

Please put down your tent floor mat and build your tent over it. Install your air mattress and fill it up. You are now in decent shape, but it's going to start getting chilly, and it's not camping unless you have a campfire.

Building the campfire is not as hard as it sounds. Please start with the rocks you gathered, making sure to pick a beautiful clearing not to close to your newly built tent, but close enough that you don't need your hiking gear to get to it. Take the rocks and create a fair size circle on the ground about a car tire's size. Stack the stones up to make a wall that will contain your fire.

You can take some firestarter, dryer lint, or tiny twigs called tinder. Pile this material into a pyramid shape, starting with the smaller pieces first than gradually increasing your twigs until you have a little Christmas tree shape. Now its time to take the larger pieces and build around your new structure.

Start stacking the larger branches into an excellent shape but not too large. You are now ready to light the fuel and enjoy the fire. Continue to look around your site and clean up the branches and debris by burning it in your newly constructed fire.

The final part and most enjoyable would be the adventures you find and share with the people and pets you are camping. Go fishing, hiking, or sit on a rock and enjoy the outdoors. We hope our guide will help you get out and enjoy the beauty we have right out our door.

Don't leave animals ignored in a parked car. On an 83-degree day, temperatures inside a parked car can reach 120 degrees in 30 minutes.

2. Try to bring pets inside, if possible. Please don't leave them in sheds or garages, because these structures can become very hot inside.

A small doghouse does not provide relief from the heat, unless airconditioned -- in fact, it worsens it.

If you have no choice but to leave your pets outdoors, make sure that they have plenty of cold water. Put ice cubes in your pet's water bowl, and keep the water out of the sun.

And shady spots in which to rest, such as under trees or tarps.

3. Limit exercise on hot days. Take care when exercising your pet. Adjust the intensity and duration of use by the temperature. On sweltering days, limit activity to early morning or evening hours, and be especially careful with pets with white-colored ears, who are more susceptible to skin cancer than short-nosed pets, who typically have difficulty breathing.

Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws, so walk your dog on the grass if possible. Always carry water with you to keep your dog from dehydrating.

4. Dog owners should be particularly careful about taking certain breeds out in the heat. Flat-faced dogs, such as Pugs and English Bulldogs, can overheat more quickly because they can have trouble panting, according to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (SPCALA).

5. Don't rely on just a fan.

Pets respond differently to heat than humans do. (Dogs, for instance, sweat primarily through their feet.) And fans don't cool off pets as effectively as they do people. Bring your pet in and cool them off with some air conditioning if available.

6. Cool your pet inside and out.

Whip up a batch of easy DIY chop meat popsicles for dogs. (You can use chop meat, pack in ice cube trays, or another favorite food.) Your dog will love the snack and the cold. Provide plenty of water, whether your pets are in or out with you.

If your dog doesn't find baths stressful, see if she enjoys a cooling soak.

7. The Humane Society also advises watching for signs of possible heatstroke in your pet. Some signs of heatstroke are heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, and vomiting deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness.

If your pet shows any of these signs, bring them to the nearest veterinarian or animal hospital. You are better safe than sorry, trying to treat any heatstroke on your own.

For An Active Dog, A Siberian Husky

The AKC lists Siberian huskies as one of the most active breeds. They're a rare breed for inspiring you to get out of the house; if you're concerned, you might spend too much time on your tv indoors. If you want a pal to go on challenging hikes, amazing adventures, and long runs with, the husky is for you. If not prepared to give your pup a good workout every day, steer clear of this breed!

For A Social Butterfly, A Golden Retriever

Looking for an extrovert to help balance you out while living that WFH life? VetStreet recommends a golden retriever since they're super outgoing. Golden retrievers love everyone — you, the cat, the USPS delivery man, the stranger trying to break into your home.

It doesn't hurt that they're smarter than most humans, too.

Dog Breeds That Request the Least Amount of Exercise

Peagle

Once you see how cute a Peagle is, you will understand why people enjoy having them as lap dogs. Additionally, this is a reasonably independent breed, so they will be content lying about the house all day while you WFH. They are also moderately quiet, so they will not annoy the neighbors too frequently, except for the occasional squirrel alarm.

English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are prone to sleeping anywhere. It is best to keep these dogs inside; they can overheat if they are out for too long in the sun. Bulldogs are great to get if you do not want to bother about grooming frequently. They have a short-haired coat, so brush them once in a while.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus accepted in most apartments; they do require a fair amount of grooming. They shed a ton, so get ready to clean up after them all the time. Shih Tzus tend not to be particularly fond of going outside. Many times, they will get enough exercise, merely walking around the apartment all day.

Pug

Pugs are some of the hilarious dogs out there, and you will have no problem finding laugh-out-loud videos of various Pug antics. They do tend to be prone to breathing issues, so they cannot get too much exercise before feeling overexerted. They also do not do well in extreme heat, so you need to be careful of walks during the summer. You can often leave a Pug inside, and it will find a way to entertain itself.

Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinschers generally have a bit more energy than most of the other dogs presented here. They will require a short walk at least once a day, but afterward, it will be content merely laying on the couch. Miniature Pinschers will end up weighing around eight or nine pounds, so they are accepted at virtually all apartments that allow dogs.

Chihuahua

The Benefits of Swimming For Your Dog:

Just like for people, swimming for dogs is a great, low-impact total body workout. Swimming is natural to exercise on your pet’s joints and limbs, which is terrific for both young pups and aging dogs alike. Swimming pools can be a fun place to play with the family in the water, or a rehabilitation method for a dog recovering from a procedure.

Swimming is an excellent workout for your dog’s cardiovascular system, as well.

Not only is your dog getting a low-impact workout, but it is also getting more of an exercise in a shorter period. However, just with any activity, it is best to build your dog’s swimming sessions up in length slowly. Short bursts of swimming at first, can gradually grow into longer workouts.

Swimming is not a substitute for all on-land workouts. It’s essential to have a balance because running, jogging, and walking exercise helps maintain healthy bone density.

Swimming pools are also an excellent way for your pup to cool off on a hot summer day. It’s always best to make sure that the water isn’t too cold or too warm as not to shock your dog as he or she enters the pool as this can frighten them.

There’s no better way for your dog to cool off on a hot day than taking a plunge into the lukewarm water. From an exercise perspective, warmer water is better for your dog’s muscles to help promote a full range of movement and blood flow. The more lukewarm water allows them to warm-up quicker and prevents muscle spasms.

A fit dog is a healthy dog that is less susceptible to injuries in the long run. It’s even better if part of the fitness routine can be part of family bonding time while everyone is having fun.

Making Chlorine Safer for Dogs

As far as chlorine: the amount in a pool is negligible, but the toxic concerns are with dogs getting into chlorine tablets. The tablets should be in a safe location where a dog cannot ingest them. Some canine owners choose to apply non-chlorine chemicals to their pools, such as Bromine, which is safer for pets.

If your pet does hop in the pool, give him a quick rinse when he removes any excess chemicals. Also, be sure to dab their ears with a towel to prevent dampness and infection.

When most canines see a pool, they may see a giant water bowl. Make sure to prohibit licking or drinking the pool water, as this could cause other issues. It will be best to have a bowl of fresh water close.

Dog Swimming Safety

Overall, if your furry friend is properly cared for and while swimming, chlorine is safe. The biggest misconception is how your dog approaches swimming. Not all dogs want to swim, and those that don’t can be encouraged, but should not force.

Owners should allow their dogs to enter the pool at their leisure and be praised every step along the way. Dogs should never be thrown into the lake, as many dogs are fearful the first time they approach the water.

To help your canine enter the water, try tossing a toy, or escorting them yourself. The easiest part? You won’t have to teach them how to swim because they are natural swimmers.

Is it your dog’s first time? Most dogs tend to panic when they try to exit a pool for the first time. They aren’t used to walking up the ladder, and as an owner, you have to show them how to use the steps.

When a dog starts to thrash in the water, it can’t bark and get tired, which could lead to potential drowning. Because of this, it’s also best to surround your pool with a fence to prevent accidents. Never leave the dog without any supervision and teach them how to exit using a toy or treats.

Swimming with your companion is entertaining, fun, and excellent bonding time, as long as you follow the precautions!

If you are planning to take a dog, you have many more options. Why? Well-mannered dogs usually make for the perfect travel companion. They are naturals when it comes to traveling, which is why you will find more pet-friendly hotels that allow dogs only rather than dogs and cats. Hotels see more pet travel with canines than with cats, so they typically aren't as prepared for cat pet travelers.

There are many more pet-friendly restaurants, activities, such as pet events, on- and off-leash parks, to do in any given city for dogs than you will find for cats. Cats tend to be homebodies. But you can teach a cat to travel, and the best way is to start them out early. So think about what kind of vacation you want.

What You Will Need to Bring

The first thing to consider is how you will get to your destination. Taking a car is the easiest: just pack up the pets in their carriers, along with some food and water bowls, old sheets and towels from home, and a few favorite toys.

Packing Right for Your Pet-Friendly Vacations

Traveling by plane, car or RV, you will need to bring staples for your pet:

• Vaccination records
• Pet tags in case your pet gets loose
• Photos of your pet in case of separation
• Medications
• Car restraints
• Pet carriers
• Strollers (especially for cats)
• Water bowl and feeding container

Prepping for Car Travel

Road trips involve a decent amount of time in the car, so it's essential to consider how your dog will ride. A crate or specially designed seat belt (that is well fitted) will help keep pets safe in the event of an accident, while also preventing distractions for the driver.

The crate or seat belt should be set up in the backseat, away from airbags, which can be fatal. The cargo area of hatchbacks and SUVs isn't ideal because of crumple zones. Still, I often put a crate there because I don't have space elsewhere with multiple people in the car.

Also, be sure to get your dog used to their restraint ahead of time by easing them into longer rides. You don't want a multi-hour road trip to be their first time in a crate or seat belt!

Load everyone up in the car and go! Taking a plane or train takes just a little more planning. When researching flights, check out the websites for the airlines under consideration to see what their policies are for animals. Some will stow all crates in storage; others will allow cats and toy breed dogs to stay with you in the cabin.

Dog-Friendly Hotels

There are thousands of pet-friendly hotels. You'll find all the most popular pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds below.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants Near Me

Don't leave Fido in the hotel room when it 'sits time for dinner. There are tens of thousands of dog-friendly restaurants. A handful of our favorite sidewalk cafes, coffee shops, bars, and other eateries that welcome Fido to join at an outdoor table are listed below. Bon appetite!

Emergency Dog Services Near Me

When traveling with dogs, one thing is sure. Poop happens. Luckily, there are pet services that can help you out with emergencies (or anything else you may need). You'll find information on the most popular pet daycare, pet sitters, animal hospitals, and other pet businesses below.

Dog Activities Near Me

When you want to spoil your dog or meet other dog owners who are as crazy about their pets are you are, there's no better place to bring Fido than a dog event. Get out and play! There are so many dog-friendly activities. You'll find information on our favorite dog parks, beaches, hiking trails, tours, stores, and many other "animal attractions" below.

We at Discount Pet Deals wish you a wonderful vacation!

What were your dog's ancestors wearing?

The simplest accessory, the collar, started showing up first in ancient Egypt. Collars were sometimes velvet, silk, or other expensive and hard to find materials. Another common trend was to stamp leather collars with scenes from the dog's life. Can you imagine ordering a collar depicting the time Max ate a whole turkey off the counter? Most prized ancient Egyptian dogs were hunting dogs, so their scenes probably looked a little different than their descendants.

Around the same time, collars in ancient China were bejeweled and up to trend. King Cuo of Zhongshan's dog found they buried with him in a collar of solid gold with silver and turquoise accents. While it functioned as a collar, its appearance was closer to a necklace.

Moving on to ancient Rome, the Molussus, or the ancestor of our mastiffs, was a well-trained war dog. The most talented war dogs fitted with a suit of armor to match their Roman owners. Roman times seem to be the period and area that originated the spiked collar. Unlike the hilarious, pointed collar you have for your bulldog, these were sharpened and deadly. Sometimes they would make the whole armor set covered in spikes.

Besides the military dogs, pets also enjoyed custom accessories. Julius Caesar himself had to address the public about spending more time and money on their dogs than their children. The most famous, "The Pompeii Dog," was found preserved in the ash of Mount Vesuvius. He wore a collar depicting him saving his owner from a wolf attack. I don't remember any children saving their parents from wolves.

If your dog's ancestors are from Japan, they likely enjoyed whatever accessories their family could afford. Samurais would outfit their dogs with their matching samurai armor.

The practice grew in popularity until clothing and accessories manufactured for pets and family dogs. Well, loved dogs may even own a set of costly ceremonial armor.

The royal courts of Europe came into the dog couture scene with coats, necklaces, and collars. Beautifully preserved in paintings, dogs wear stunning displays of jewels, fabrics, and precious metals. The most famous dog fashionista of the time belonged to King Louis XI. Cher Ami, or "Beloved Friend," wore a collar of scarlet velvet with 20 pearls and 11 rubies.

War Dogs and their armor were famous throughout the middle ages in Europe and with the Spanish conquistadors in the new world. Unfortunately, many of the atrocities Christopher Columbus committed were with the help of armored war dogs. Makes picking up a sweater for your winter challenged best friend seem pretty harmless, right?

During the same period, but back in Europe, the renaissance revitalized Europe. Dog fashion also benefited from the improved quality of life and ingenuity. Similar to today's collar sporting custom tags, in renaissance times, the collar used to deter theft.

A lock placed on the collar and only the owner had the key. These locks decorated and family-specific, making them easy to identify in case someone stole the dog.

Owning a dog became affordable, and accessories started manufacturing from more common materials

When photography invented in the 1800s, some of the first subjects were well-dressed dogs. Functional accessories still exist, but in addition to suited armor, we begin to see winter and raincoats. We also start seeing dogs dressed as humans and other more current day trends. Dog clothing took off with the industrialization of Europe. Along with the mass-produced, we start seeing the first dog boutiques in France.

Hundreds of years later, there was a massive burst in dog fashion in the early 2000s. Mass production and the internet made picking up a matching Christmas sweater for your basset hound incredibly affordable. Watching celebrities like Paris Hilton carry her decked out Chihuahua around either made you love the idea or hate it. Still, she certainly wasn't the first or most creative person to accessorize their dog.

For over 10,000 years, we've made sure our dogs are fashion-forward. So, the next time someone checks out your Dogs Hat or asks you about your pup's Team Jersey, tell them he's just keeping the family tradition.

Here at Discount Pet Deals, we are at the height of Dog Fashion, and you're going to need some Dog Fashion Accessories to up your game.

We've got Dog Bandanas and Dog Collars. For the ladies, we've got Dog Dress and Sweaters. Don't forget about your sun protection! Try out our Dog Hats to protect your dog's sensitive eyes.

Checklist for New Adopters and Pet Owners

Congratulations on your new pet! You are embarking on a beautiful and rewarding relationship. Because a new love comes with a lot of change for both pet and pet parent, we’ve compiled a checklist to help make the transition as smooth as possible—our list of pet supplies plus questions to know the answers.

Questions for all future pet owners:

Do you have any other pets, and how will they react to a new love?
Is your current residence suited to the pet you’re considering?
How will your social life or work obligations affect your ability to care for a pet?
Do you have a plan for your new pet during vacations and work travel?
How do the people you live with feel about having a pet in the house?
Are you (or your spouse, partner, or roommate) intolerant of hair, dirt, and other realities of sharing your home with a pet, such as allergies?
Do you or any of your household/family members have health issues that may be affected by a pet?
What breed, or species, of animal, is the best fit with your current lifestyle?
Is there tension in the home? Pets quickly pick up on stress in the house, and it can exacerbate their health and behavior problems.
Is there an adult in the family who has agreed to be ultimately responsible for the pet’s care?

Other Considerations:

What do you expect your pet to contribute to your life? For example, do you want a running and hiking buddy, or is your idea of exercise watching it on TV?
If you are thinking of adopting a young animal, do you have the time and patience to work with the pet through its adolescence?
Have you considered your lifestyle carefully and determined whether a younger or older animal would be a better match for you?
Can you train and handle a pet with behavior issues, or are you looking for an easy-going friend?
Do you need a pet who will be reliable with children or one you can take with you when you travel?
Do you want a pet who follows you all around the house, or would you prefer a less clingy, more independent character?

Size Considerations (for Dogs):

What size dog can your home accommodate?
Will you have enough room if your dog grows to be bigger than expected?
What size would pet suit the other people who live in or visit your home regularly?
Do you have another pet to consider when choosing the size of your next pet?
How big a pet can you travel comfortably?

Pet Costs:

More likely than not, the adopting agency or pet stores will charge a fee to help defray the cost of taking in unwanted or lost animals. The adoption fee you pay will be a tiny fraction of the money you will spend over the life of your pet. You may need to pay for your adopted pet to be spayed or neutered before bringing him or her home.

Some expenses are mandatory for all pets, including:

• Food
• Routine veterinary care
• Licensing according to local regulations
• Collars, leashes and identification tags
• Kitty litter and box
• Essential grooming equipment and supplies

Other expenditures may not be required but highly recommended:

• Permanent identification, such as a microchip or tattoo
• Training classes
• Additional grooming supplies or professional grooming (depending on your new pet’s needs)
• A spare collar or leash
• A bed and toys
• A crate or carrier

Unexpected costs: Accidents and illness can result in costly emergency veterinary care. Recovery tools for finding a missing pet can include posters and rewards.

A pet with unique physical or behavioral challenges may require specialized professional support to overcome any obstacles these issues present.

Time Considerations:

Pets need food and water two to three times a day, more often in the case of a puppy, and need a constant supply of freshwater. A responsible pet parent should spend at least one hour per day, giving direct attention to his or her pet. Immediate attention may include training, exercising, grooming, and playing or, with cats, may just be lap time on the couch. Dogs will need to be taken out to potty several times a day.

A pet with an abundance of energy needs more time to exercise and interactive toys to keep them entertained. Pets with long coats need 20 minutes a day of grooming to prevent matting.

Pets with certain medical conditions may need additional attention, including correctly timed injections in the case of diabetic animals. Remember that adopted pets may require additional bonding and reassurance time in the early weeks.

Shopping Checklist:

It may be a good idea to wait until you select your new pet before you begin shopping for supplies. For example, some items, such as food and water bowls or collars and harnesses, depend upon the size of the pet you will be choosing.

Also, be sure to find out which food your pet was eating in the shelter or breeder so that you can provide the same in the beginning, again to ease the transition. After the love has settled in, talk with your veterinarian about switching to the food of your choice.

Once you’ve selected your pet, here’s a checklist of supplies you may need:

Necessary Items for Dogs:

• Food and water bowls
• Food (canned or dry)
• Collar
• Four to six-foot leash
• ID tag with your phone number
• Hard plastic carrier or foldable metal crate
• Dog bed
• Doggy shampoo and conditioner
• Nail clippers
• Canine toothbrush and toothpaste
• Brush or comb (depends on your pet’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Non-toxic cleanser
• Enzymatic odor neutralizer
• Plastic poop baggies (biodegradable ones are best) or pooper scooper
• Absorbent house-training pads
• Variety of toys (a ball, rope, chew toy and puzzle toy are good starts)
• Variety of treats (such as small cookies, larger rawhides, etc.)
• First-aid supplies
• Baby gate(s)
• Pet supplies store for pet products

Necessary Items for Cats:

• Food and water bowls
• Food (canned or dry)
• Litter box and scooper
• Kitty litter
• Collar
• ID tag with your phone number
• Hard plastic carrier
• Nail clippers
• Feline toothbrush and toothpaste
• Brush or comb (depends on your cat’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Non-toxic cleanser
• Enzymatic odor neutralizer
• Variety of toys (toys including catnip are a favorite)
• First-aid supplies
• Entrepreneur magazine for cat reading Chris Rowland 8)

Your dog needs to do more than sit around the house or sleep the bad weather away, the same way you do. Here are fun indoor games you can play with your dog.

Scent work with hidden treats

Let your dog use his nose to sniff out prizes and treats. Teaching your dog to discover rewards using only his nose is an excellent game for the body and mind. While all dogs have a great sense of smell, sometimes they have to be reminded to use it, and this exercise can get your dog excited about solving the problem of the hidden prize.

Set up a bunch of boxes or opaque containers (start with at least four or five) upside-down next to each other and, without your dog seeing you hide it, place a prize (a favorite toy, a bone, a treat, whatever works) under one of the containers.

Next, encourage your dog to smell the boxes and, as he (hopefully) pauses at the one with the prize, lift the box and enthusiastically congratulate him on his discovery. Let him eat the treat, fetch the toy, or indulge in whatever reward your dog found.

Soon, your dog will know during this game and be excited to sniff out the prize. Keep adding more boxes and space them at farther intervals to increase the challenge as your dog's scent work improves.

Tug Games

In small spaces where mobile games are not possible, you can still play tug games with your dog. Get a couple of sturdy tug toys in a size that's appropriate for your particular dog.

Tug toys are suitable for indoor play because they are small enough to throw across the room to fetch and retrieve, and do not bounce and hit things the way balls can.

For an inexpensive version of a tug toy, tear an old T-shirt into strips. Tie the pieces together to create a multi-tentacled octopus type toy that is easy for both you and your dog to grab. They are lightweight, easy to throw, and easy to wash.

Hide and Seek

Whether you are hiding a treat, a favorite toy, or in another area of the house yourself, dogs enjoy the fun of the hunt. Start with something simple by hiding a toy or treat under a blanket, sheet, or pillows, and see how long it takes your dog to find it. Make it more of a challenge by altering the hiding place or wrapping the object in layers.

If you are hiding, or have multiple human family members that can play, make it a hunt for each person that is disappearing. If your dog follows you so you can't hide, the advantage of having at least one other player is that someone can hold your dog while you vanish, and then give the command to find you once hidden.

Obstacle Course

Even if you don't have a large house, you can still create an obstacle course for your dog. Try using items from around your home to build a simple but challenging way that will provide plenty of doggy entertainment. For example, pillows, sturdy chairs, and boxes are easy to use and clean up after playtime.

Use a few Canidae Treats to motivate your dog to jump over objects or maneuver around or under barriers. An obstacle course is a great way to get your dog up and moving around, even in a small space. Be creative and vary the course to keep it interesting for your dog.

Training Games

If you are trying to train your dog to obey commands, take advantage of the restrictions of indoor space to practice some of the basic rules such as Sit, Come, Shake, or Roll Over. If you make it a game instead of a task, your dog may take to it better and will learn commands quicker.

Patience, praise, and rewards work wonders when you are teaching new skills to your dog or trying to reinforce the ones they have already learned. You can also use training cues in any of the indoor games to help enhance their learning.

Puzzle Challenges

There is a large selection of puzzle type toys available that will challenge your dog as he works to retrieve the treat hidden inside. Some require rolling and active movement for the dog to get the food out of the toy. Others are for stationary play.

The lure of the hidden treat will entice your dog to spend time trying to retrieve the treasure, which takes concentration and focus. It keeps the dog entertained and offers a tasty reward at the end for accomplishing the task.

Keeping your dog active and entertained when they're stuck inside is not just suitable for physical exercise and stimulating their brain. It is also an excellent way for you to bond with your canine companion.

Your dog loves spending time with you. Indoor games can make your time together with healthy, fun, educational, and bonding.

We do not know the exact source of the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but we know that it originally came from an animal, likely a bat.

At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.
Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.
More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.
We are still learning about this virus, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some coronaviruses cause cold-like illnesses in people, while others cause illness in certain types of animals, such as cattle, camels, and bats. Some coronaviruses, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, infect only animals and do not infect humans.

Risk of animals spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to people
Some coronaviruses that infect animals can be spread to humans and then spread between people, but this is rare. This is what happened with the virus that caused the current outbreak of COVID-19, with the virus likely originating in bats. The first reported infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person to person.

The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, and talking. Recent studies show that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.

The World Health Organization declared that the COVID-19 novel coronavirus is a global pandemic. In the panic over the spread of the virus, people are worried not only about their health but the health of their dogs, cats, and other pets.

Dogs wearing face masks have popped up in photos across social media, causing pet owners everywhere to ask: can dogs get coronavirus.

Can dogs contract COVID-19?

Dogs can contract certain types of coronaviruses, such as the canine respiratory coronavirus. Still, this specific novel coronavirus, aka COVID-19, is believed not to be a health threat to dogs. Two pet dogs in Hong Kong have tested positive for COVID-19, and both of these dogs lived in homes with COVID-19 positive owners. Local health officials characterize the cases of the two dogs in Hong Kong as "likely to be a case of human-to-animal transmission," and neither dog showed any signs of illness from the virus.

Hong Kong health officials have continued to test dogs and cats owned by people infected with the coronavirus. Officials there have stated that cases of infection in dogs appear to be infrequent. As of March 25, Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department “has conducted tests on 17 dogs and eight cats from households with confirmed COVID-19 cases or persons in close contact with confirmed patients, and only two dogs had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.”



Hong Kong officials stress that “these findings indicate that dogs and cats are not infected easily with this virus, and there is no evidence that they play a role in the spread of the virus.”

Can other animals contract COVID-19?

Two pet cats, one in Hong Kong and one in Belgium, have tested positive for COVID-19. Both of these cats lived in homes with COVID-19 positive owners.
A tiger at New York’s Bronx Zoo is the first known case of COVID-19 in an animal in the United States. Several tigers and lions at the zoo showed symptoms including a dry cough, wheezing, and lack of appetite. All of the animals at the zoo are believed to have been infected by a zoo employee who showed signs of COVID-19. These zoo animals are expected to recover. Dr. Jane Rooney, a veterinarian and USDA official, tells the Associated Press, “There doesn’t appear to be, at this time, any evidence that suggests that the animals can spread the virus to people or that they can be a source of infection in the United States.”

The American Veterinary Medical Association also reports on preliminary results of “experimental infection” of domestic cats, ferrets, and dogs in China, but cautions that these results don’t represent real-world circumstances and should not be overly interpreted.

Can dogs spread COVID-19?

The World Health Organization states, “There is no evidence that a dog, cat, or any pet can transmit COVID-19. COVID-19 is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently and thoroughly.” Covering your face with a cloth face covering can also help reduce the possibility of spreading droplets.
The CDC says that “while this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is now spreading from person-to-person.” The CDC recommends that people traveling to China avoid animals both alive and dead, “but there is no reason to think that any animals or pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this novel coronavirus.”



In households where a person has tested positive for the virus, the CDC recommends having another person in the household handle the daily care of the pet if possible.

Is it safe to pet my dog?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, petting a dog’s fur is a low risk. The AVMA’s Chief Veterinary Officer Gail Golab says, “We’re not overly concerned about people contracting COVID-19 through contact with dogs and cats.” And there’s science behind that: “The virus survives best on smooth surfaces, such as countertops and doorknobs,” Golab says. “Porous materials, such as pet fur, tend to absorb and trap pathogens, making it harder to contact them through touch.”

Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, says, “The CDC has not reported any cases of pets becoming infected with COVID-19 in the United States.” Dr. Klein urges common-sense best practices when it comes to our pets: “If you have children, you wouldn’t have them touch a puppy and put their fingers in their mouth because they can have fecal contamination,” he says. “The general practice of washing our hands after touching a puppy or a dog—that’s normal hygiene.”

Can I walk my dog?

Physical and mental exercise is extremely important for dogs and dog owners alike. Before taking a walk, check your local regulations. As long as the area where you reside remains safe enough to venture outside, dog owners feeling healthy and well should plan to continue walking their dogs daily, albeit with added safety measures like maintaining social distancing and covering your face with a mask. Observe any local ordinances concerning curfews, even if that means adjusting your dog walking schedule.

Owners should wash their hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds before and after each walk. Consider carrying around a pocket-sized bottle of hand sanitizer during your walks. Practice social distancing measures by walking your dog in uncrowded areas when possible. If you live in a big city, make efforts to take your dog down less-heavily-trafficked blocks, or try adjusting walks to less busy times of day and night. Prevent your dog from associating with other people out of an abundance of caution.

How can dog owners protect dogs from coronavirus?

For now, healthy pet owners in the U.S. don’t need to do anything other than follow basic hygienic precautions such as washing their hands with soap and water before and after contact with any animal, including dogs and cats. If you test positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, experts recommend that you should “restrict contact with animals — both to avoid exposing the pets and to prevent getting the virus on their skin or fur, which might be passed on to another person who touches the animal.”

Wearing a mask while interacting with your dog or other pets can reduce the possibility of spreading the virus through droplets. To reduce the spread of all germs, you may also consider wiping your pet’s paws when they come in and out of the house with a paw cleaner and paw wipes.

Dogs do not need a face mask to protect themselves against the novel coronavirus COVID-19. If you are still concerned or notice a change in your dog’s health, speak to a veterinarian. And the most important protection of all: Under no circumstances should owners abandon their dogs, cats, or other pets because of COVID-19 fears.

The AKC is here to help dog owners adapt to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Can dogs get the new coronavirus (COVID-19)?

At this time, experts believe it isn't very likely. The World Health Organization currently advises that there is no evidence to suggest that dogs or cats can get infected with the new coronavirus. The OIE states there is no evidence that dogs play a role in the spread of this disease or that they become sick. The CDC also seconds that opinion, stating that, "At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19."

If experts believe it is unlikely for a dog to get COVID-19, how did a dog test "positive" in Hong Kong?

This canine patient was in close contact with an infected human, who was likely shedding large quantities of the virus. The close contact led to the infection being in the dog's nose. There is no indication that the dog is sick or showing any symptoms. Authorities say continue to quarantine and test the dog to evaluate if the canine patient becomes ill. In short, there was coronavirus on the dog just like there was coronavirus on the floor in the room, but the dog was not infected or diseased.

Although pets cannot become sick from COVID-19, could they serve as a conduit of infection between people?

A person with COVID-19 could sneeze or otherwise contaminate their pet. Then another individual could touch that animal and contract the disease. Veterinary experts believe the risk for transmission would below. Animals living with sick individuals should keep away from other people and animals (quarantined at home).



Just as people who live with sick individuals must avoid contact with others, do the same with your pets.

Is there a COVID-19 vaccine for dogs and cats?

There is no vaccine for COVID-19 for people or animals at this time.

Veterinarians are familiar with other coronaviruses. Similar but different coronavirus species cause several common diseases in domestic animals. Many dogs, for example, are vaccinated for another species of coronavirus (Canine Coronavirus) as puppies. However, this vaccine does not protect dogs from COVID-19.

Can veterinarians test for COVID-19 in pets?

Yes. The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Medicine has recently purchased the needed equipment to test for the new COVID-19 in pets. They expect the test to be available to veterinarians starting March 15. Please contact the diagnostic laboratory with any further questions at 217-333-1620.

Why is the college offering a COVID-19 test for pets if they cannot get it?

The college, researchers are offering this testing in the future to monitor the outbreak. Current information suggests that our pets cannot become infected with COVID-19 and spread it to other animals and people. We still have a lot to learn about this new virus. It is essential to evaluate if our current understanding changes.

What animal did COVID-19 originate?

Current research suggests that horseshoe bats are the reservoir species, and the virus originated from that species as well. Previous human coronavirus outbreaks, SARS and MERS, originated in bats but passed through other species, such as the palm civet and camels.

If diagnosed with Covid-19, how do I protect my pet?

Since your pet is at minimal risk of COVID-19 infection, there are no specific steps needed to protect them from the disease. Pets can have the virus ON THEM if they are in an environment with a large quantity of the virus and could serve to be a source of the infection for other people, including family members.

Therefore, to protect other people and yourself, the CDC recommends that you limit contact with pets if you are sick with COVID-19. Avoid snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must interact with your pet, wash your hands before and after, and wear a face mask.

Should my pet wear a face mask in public?

No. Face masks may not protect your pet from disease transmission and may cause other breathing difficulties.

Should I wear a face mask?

Wearing a surgical mask won't prevent anyone (human or animal) from being exposed to the virus. A cover should prevent someone that is potentially infectious from spreading the virus to others via droplets through coughing, sneezing, or talking.

How do I protect my pet and myself from COVID-19?

Since your pet is at minimal risk of COVID-19 infection, there are no specific steps needed to protect them from the disease.

To protect yourself, the CDC recommends the following steps:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds!
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and then throw it away.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Should I Have Voluntary Home Isolation?

If you are ill with symptoms of respiratory diseases, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills or fatigue, stay home.

The CDC recommends quarantine until at least 24 hours after you are free of fever (100 degrees F) or signs of illness without the use of fever-reducing medications.

Veterinary practices should designate their clinic as a temporary NO HANDSHAKE ZONE. Ask colleagues and clients to refrain from shaking hands.

What other precautions do you recommend?

Visitation to nursing homes and long-term care facilities by service animals and their handlers should be discouraged at this time.

Read more: Foods Your Pets Should Never Eat

Sources: College of Veterinary Medicine

If you shouldn’t eat a triple cheeseburger, your dog or cat probably shouldn’t either. But when it comes to giving your pet people food, some foods that are okay - or even great - for you, can be harmful or toxic foods for dogs or cats.

It’s best to stick with a dog food or cat food, dog treats and cat treats that are made just for your furry pals, especially if you’re unsure.

Symptoms that your pet may have eaten harmful foods include lethargy, tremors, seizures, increased body temperature, explosive diarrhea and vomiting, loss of coordination, and even more severe problems, such as kidney and liver failure.

Here are a few of the most toxic foods for dogs, cats, and other pets:

1. Alcoholic beverages / Drugs – One of the most apparent poisonous foods for dogs and cats. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma, and even death.

2. Apple seeds – contain cyanide, so avoid giving pets a whole apple and use slices instead. Anything with cyanide is a cat or dog food to avoid.

3. Apricot stems, leaves, and pits – Contain cyanide, which is why pets should never chew on the holes.

4. Avocados – Toxic to horses, cattle, goats, and birds; the leaves, fruit, seeds, pit, and skin may contain a toxic substance called persin.

5. Caffeine – provides methylxanthines, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can also cause panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and even death. A lot of food and drinks you didn’t think had caffeine can contain this stimulant including candies like chocolate, also tea and coffee products.

6. Gum and candy –  Any candy containing the toxic artificial sweetener xylitol that can cause insulin release in most species, which can lead to liver failure, should be avoided.

7. Fruit pits – Cherry Stems, leaves, seeds, and pits contain cyanide—basically everything but the fruit itself. Be careful not to let cherry pits drop to the floor where your pet could eat them. Peach pits can cause brick red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. Be sure not to throw these in the yard where your dog can chew on them.

8. Garlic, onions, onion powder, and chives – Contain toxin N-propyl disulfide, which causes vomiting, breakdown of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia), blood in urine, weakness, high heart rate and panting.

9. Grapes and raisins – While its unknown what exactly makes this a dog food to avoid, grapes and raisins have been known to cause kidney failure and are not worth the risk.

10. Hops (used in home beer brewing) – Toxic to dogs, causing panting, high body temperature, seizures, and death.

11. Nuts – Oils and fats in almonds, pecans, and walnuts can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs.

12. Milk and dairy – Can cause diarrhea or other digestive upset in pets because they do not have enough lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk) to process dairy products.

Train Your Pet the Right Way from Day 1

The second you looked at your little creature, you were smitten. But while your new pet may be all licks, nibbles, and cuddles now, it takes work to turn that bundle of love into a perfect pet. You'll need to train it, giving it the tools required to interact with people and other animals throughout its life successfully. Here's how to give your new addition a great start.

Give Your Pet Some Time

Most pets should not be away from their moms and littermates until they are eight weeks old or older. During these first few weeks, your pet needs food, love, and affection from its mother. It will be busy learning to play and acquiring social skills from siblings.

Littermates teach each other not to bite or to roughhouse too strenuously, as well as frustration tolerance. The early years are also a time when your pet will be getting used to different people and learning about pack dominance. These lessons will continue in your home.

Welcome Your New Addition Home

The first few days together are exciting, with everyone getting to know each other and having a good time. Interactions may feel like fun and games, but your pet is busy learning what to do and what not to do, whether you realize you're teaching your love or not. If you've taken a very young animal into your home, it will feel vulnerable, crave security, safety, and a routine, as well as love.

Pets Need Healthy Food

For your pet to grow up healthy and live a longer life, give them food that meets their nutritional needs! For example, the diet of a senior dog may differ from that of a puppy. Older dogs may have problems with chewing and digestion, so give them a soft or wet diet. You won't be giving the same food to every pet.

Don't forget to give pets the right amount of food, too! Overfeeding your pet or giving them too many treats could lead to obesity, which could consequently trigger more health problems such as heart disease, renal issues, and more. Weigh your options when it comes to pet food to avoid these kinds of illnesses - and if you don't precisely know what foods are best for your pet, it's a great idea to ask the opinion of your vet!

Give Your Pets Cool, Fresh Water to Drink

Just like human beings, pets need water to survive. Always provide a clean, fresh bowl of water to any animals in your care! Make it accessible to them by placing it near their food bowl, and remember to refill your pet's water bowl at least two times a day. Freshwater will keep them hydrated and healthy!

If your pet lives in water, like fish and turtles, clean aquariums at least once a week, failing to do so could lead to smelly tanks and sick pets!

Keep a Regular Schedule

Keeping a regular schedule is one of the most important things you can do for your pet and yourself. Your pet will know when they need to go out, take a nap, play, or get ready for bed. The schedule will help their temperament and will help you create a great relationship with your pet.

No matter what animal you call a friend, taking care of them is an essential part of letting them know you love them.

The type of exercise you choose depends on the age and fitness of your pet and your lifestyle. Dogs are adaptable and are happy to play Frisbee in the park or take long walks in the neighborhood. Cats might need you to play with them, fish, well sprinkle some food in the tank, and watch them swim.

Exercise is one of the best ways to spend time with your pet. It's especially essential for a large breed, working, and active breed types. Dogs are beautiful athletes, and most adapt to even strenuous exercise, provided they have had an adequate opportunity to "train," and the environmental conditions are not too extreme.

Surely you've heard the favorite pet saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." Pet training is not easy, by any means. If you are dealing with a senior pet who has developed bad habits over the years, you can still train them. Or you are training your new puppy or kitten to help avoid these bad habits altogether, the best time to start teaching your pet is now – no matter what their age.

The perfect spring training

If you are a fitness trainer, this information is not new to you, but if you are like most people with fitness levels in the basic range, continue reading. Training your dog should be fun and not seem like work; some aerobic exercise, pet care, and strength training for 30 minutes a day could be enough aerobic activity.

A happy and healthy lifestyle with regular exercise is essential for both you and your canine companion. Basic manners and the training program we have put together should make this spring and summer more enjoyable. But to get the best out of your training, you have to do it right! Many workout principles that apply to humans apply to our dogs as well. For the complete training, you have to be aware of it.

Warm-up & cool-down! Begin all workouts with a warm-up period of brisk walking or easy jogging before running or doing other exercises. Even a dog bred for running cannot immediately start on a lengthy run. You have to start slow and light before you go on a 5 km run. Don't forget a similar cool-down after your workout.

Rest & recovery are essential to improve the fitness of both you and your dog. If you just started your training, it is wise to run with your dog every second day. Taking a break between workouts will allow time for muscle recovery and avoid injury while building endurance.

Certain dog breeds are better running companions than others. Some dogs bred to perform different jobs, which means each kind has its strength and endurance for exercise. Large dog breeds may be more suitable for longer runs than smaller dogs.

How far, how long, and how often? The dog's age determines the number of km, minutes, or hours you want to run with your dog, size, breed, and body strength. You must be aware of your dog's limits when exercising. Dogs, like humans, have physical and mental differences that influence performance. If you keep an eye on your dog's behavior, it is simple to figure out if he or she is comfortable with the amount of training.

Running each day is often not a problem for younger, healthy, athletic dogs, as long as the workouts are not successively intense. If you, for example, run a hard, fast, 8 km run on Tuesday, an easy 4 km recovery run would be perfect on Wednesday. A longer route, around 15 km, should be followed by a slow, comfortable series.

If your dog shows any signs of muscle soreness after a long exercise session, or lacks his usual enthusiasm for going out running, it is time to take a day off or to go for a leisurely walk. For beginners, it is best to start with easy workouts and accessible routes three times a week. If both you and your dog feel comfortable with the amount of training, you can add another day and an extra km to your schedule. It might take a few weeks, but soon you'll have a training plan that both you and your dog enjoy.

The weather! Always keep the temperature in mind before your next outdoor activity. You may feel comfortable running on a hot sunny day, but don't forget that your dog is wearing a warm, furry coat. If it's too hot, your pet could suffer from health complications or get injured. Conversely, running when it's too cold or icy can be very hard and uncomfortable for your dog – especially for the paws. Always make sure your dog is hydrated while running. Pack a bottle of water for you and one for your dog. Be aware of your dog's behavior and make a few water breaks.

Begin all workouts with a warm-up. Even a dog bred for running cannot start on a lengthy run.

Almost all dogs, especially older dogs, those with heart and lung problems, and those with thick hair coats, are likely to have trouble with hot and humid conditions. It's better to exercise in the early morning or evening when the heat is less than 80 degrees, and the humidity is less than 30 percent, thus avoiding the hot and humid conditions.

Negative Reinforcement Does Not Stop Bad Behavior

Most times, when pets display behavior that their pet parent is trying to discourage – jumping on the furniture, scratching the carpet, having a potty accident inside the home – they do so when they are alone. So when the "crime" discovered, many pet owners will show their pet the evidence of the incident (such as a wet spot on the floor) and discipline the pet then. Unfortunately, the "crime" is already long out of the pets' mind by this time, and the discipline only confuses him; it does anything but creates a clear message, which is necessary when training a pet. Rather than negative reinforcement, reward your pet's positive behavior for encouraging him to repeat the act in the future.

Professional Pet Care

What is the difference between Pet Sitting and Boarding?

Pet Sitting is when a pet care technician goes to the pets' home for care. Boarding is when the pet goes somewhere other than their home to care. With this in mind, always find a boarding company or professional that expresses the need for physical activity. Understanding the need for exercise and your pet, many boarding companies will offer a group fitness instructor with loose leash walking.

In conclusion, whatever you decide on in regards to training classes and getting your pet outside this spring, remember to make it as fun for both you and your best friend.

Visit the Vet: Ask your veterinarian some critical questions before you and your dog head into the wilds:

Use a traditional leash that is nonretractable for your dog walks. Bring an ample supply of water and ALWAYS, please pick up after your dogs, no one likes getting poop on their shoes. Now that you know the basics, let's dive deeper into how do you walk a dog.

Dog walks are essential for the proper growth of your puppy. Walking on a leash teaches your dog you are in charge, do not harshly use a rope, we will explain better ways for training your dog. You should walk your dog at least once every day; we should at least shoot for every other day if every day is not possible. Remember, you are getting the same exercise as your dog, so why not.

Hydration, Water and a Healthy Dog

Before even thinking of going for a walk, water should be the first thing on your mind. Carry plenty of water and food. Along with poop bags, carry a portable bowl and a bottle of water for your pet. Keeping your dog hydrated is essential when walking for more extended periods or during the hotter times of the day.

During the summer months, it is extra important that your dog has plenty of water. Your pet's hydration is the essential part of dog walking that some people often overlook.

Food to Keep Your Dog Focused

Your dog learns by repetition; providing a treat or a particular food after or during your walk will trigger a memory in your pet's brain telling them, if I do this, I will get that special treat. Dogs with behavior problems will take more training and attention. If you can teach your dog to sit, loose leash walking will be no problem.

Protect Your Pooch's Paws Properly

Say that three times fast, I know you did. Your pet doesn't enjoy wearing the latest Nikes or Converse on those scorching days. Do you want to know if the pavement is too hot for your dog? Place the back of your hand or barefoot on the asphalt for a couple of seconds. If it's too hot for your skin, it's too hot for your dogs' feet.

Warning! Hot Pavement Can Cause Burns | disclosure. We just added that in case you did not know, you can burn yourself on the scorching pavement. Be careful is the lesson here.

Use a Dog Harness, and Never a Choker

Introduce him to the collar or harness and leash. Dog leashes come in all kinds of designs, colors, and lengths, make sure to use a size chart to get the size for your dog. Teach a cue. Make him come to you. If your dog starts pulling in the other direction, turn yourself into "a statue." Do not give in to your dog, or he or she will continue to draw you around and never learn to walk in the future appropriately. A statue doesn't move, so when your dog pulls, stand firm.

Practice inside. Take it outside. When you feel comfortable walking around your place, introduce your pet to new experiences and locations. Bring new "dog friends" over for "pet dates" and enjoy your time together or take a break and let your dog enjoy there time. A leash and harness are not painful if you follow some simple rules.

Put a leash and harness on the dog. Keep the harness tight, but not too tight. Choose the side on which you want your dog to walk. Pull the leash close to your body. Talk to your dog. Reward your dog with special treats and never harm your pet with a choking device.

You can use a collar to walk your pet, but always be careful when you or they stop walking or runs off to chase a squirrel. You do not want to choke your pet in any way. Pulling your dog's neck in a strong force could cause lasting harm.

Dog Collars and Id Tags

Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification every time you leave the house with your dog to ensure that they're wearing ID tags. Pet ID tags come in many shapes and sizes and also provide the options to have your information engraved on them. Unfortunately, you can't control everything that happens, and sometimes dogs get lost — sad face.

Be prepared by making sure your dog is wearing tags that are up to date. You can write on the inside of the collar with a sharpie of your information. It is an extra precaution, to pet tag malfunction. And since collars can break or wiggle out of, talk to your veterinarian about getting a microchip. The microchip will store the dogs' id tags in a universal database that helps to track your dog down much more accessible than visiting every animal shelter in town.

Have Fun, Talk to Your Dog

Your dog understands the tone in your voice. Don't get frustrated. Encourage your dog with a "what a good boy/girl" or "who is the best dog, you are, that's who" when it does something right. Use a STERN voice when instructing it not to do the wrong things, like pulling too hard on the leash to force control, barking at people passing by, or growling at other dogs.

Use this time to train and love your pup at the same time. If you are both having fun, soon you will be the top walkers of the neighborhood.