NOVADog Blog

One big food holiday down and 2 to go over the next few weeks.  But Tippy is still succeeding!

She weighed in at 60.5 lbs this morning which means she managed to lose weight (more than a pound since her last weigh in before Thanksgiving) despite the obstacles that the holidays and winter weather brings.

This time of year brings with it a lot of crazy activity and overloaded schedules. Unfortunately as the parents of 3 young teens we often find ourselves in that boat regardless of the season. I am truly grateful for the dog walkers at DogOn Fitness because without them Tippy would definitely not be getting the exercise she needs to meet her goals.  As I run the kids around to their activities I find myself figuring out where we will squeeze in 30 minutes of walking the dog.  Throw in the really wet and increasingly cold weather we’ve had lately and I can come up with a million excuses why I will have to put it off until the next day.

So this challenge has been a great motivator…there is an external pressure to succeed.  But as we watch the weight come off, see her energy levels increase and the pleasure she is taking in playful exercise we realize the payoff will be huge for her health which will result in a happier longer life for her. Which will mean we get to enjoy her for many more years to come.

Wishing everyone a peaceful holiday season filled with many wonderful walks with your dog.

Amy Peterson and her family live in Herndon, VA. Their dog Tippy, was chosen as the winner to participate in the NOVADog Fitness Challenge. Our vet consultant says that Tippy has about 12 pounds to lose during the 6-month Fitness Challenge, which runs through March of 2010. We invite our readers to check back often to follow her progress and read interesting articles about canine health, fitness, and nutrition.

Seeking a quality boarding option for your dog while you’re away over the holidays can be a daunting task. Venture to Google and search “dog boarding Northern Virginia” and an array of options will greet you. Everything from daycares to traditional kennels to luxury resorts. But which option is right for you and your discriminating canine?

Your first step should be scheduling a tour of the facility before making your reservation.

A few things consider:

• No one wants that sinking feeling of guilt when leaving their pup for the holidays. From the moment you walk in the door you should be given a positive impression. The facility should look and smell clean, as well as have a comfortable temperature.

• When taking your tour, do the pets you see appear to be happy and content? Could you envision your own dog enjoying themselves there? Your pup should be free to stretch their legs and romp while you’re away. Are the play and boarding areas large enough? Ask about exercise or open play options. All indoor exercise areas, as well as outdoor should appear safe and secure. Ask what a typical day’s schedule will be like for your dog.

• The staff should give you that “warm and fuzzy” welcoming feeling in addition to appearing knowledgeable and capable of handling any special issues your dog may have.

• Ask about requirements for dogs staying with them. Prior to booking your stay, they should ask questions of you as well: your dog’s background (temperament, likes/dislikes, comforts, special needs, etc), confirmation of their vaccinations, food and medication specifications and emergency contact information in case of illness.

• Ask if you’ll be able to bring your own food and if comfortable bedding will be provided. Boarding can be a stressful time for some pups and it’s not a time to switch up their diet. A comfortable place to sleep at night will ensure they receive enough rest.

Don’t be afraid to ask the gamut of questions - make sure you feel confident about the care being provided to your dog. Ensure that your four-legged friend will be happy and healthy at their new vacation hot spot!

Alexandra Bowens is the Marketing Manager for Dogtopia—a dog daycare, boarding and spa facility with five locations in Northern Virginia. Dogs are free to romp and play in open playrooms, monitored by staff trained in pack management and dog behavior. Live webcams on the company’s website www.dogdaycare.com offer a peak into the fun.

Happy holidays from the Caring Hands Animal Hospital family to yours!

The holidays are a time for celebration with friends & family … pets included!

Decadent food and festive decorations are what make the holidays special. Be aware of the dangers that are out there for your cat or dog.

Watch what they eat.

Plants such as ivy, holly, mistletoe, poinsettia, lilies and Christmas greens can be very toxic if animals ingest them.  Keep pets from drinking from Christmas tree water, because it may contain harmful chemicals.

Decorations should be kept out of pets’ reach.  Artificial snow, glass, metal, the liquid in snow globes, ribbons, and tinsel could cause serious medical emergencies if any of these items are ingested.

Many of the holiday meats we eat are fatty and can cause gastrointestinal problems for our pets.  Bones can cause bowel obstructions or choking and are not recommended.

As always, pets should not eat chocolate!  Chocolate contains a chemical that can be highly toxic.

Cold weather hazards.

With the possibility of snow & ice, it is important to wipe your pet’s paws and belly when he/she comes in from the cold.  De-icing products, salt & ice can get into their fur and paws, which can cause skin irritation or more serious problems.

Antifreeze has a sweet taste that dogs and cats like, so make sure to clean up any spilled antifreeze.

To ensure pets’ safety, there are pet-friendly de-icing/salt & antifreeze products that are available.

Sometimes the hustle and bustle of the holidays can frighten pets and cause them to run away.  Create a quiet, secure place for your pet to rest away from the crowd.  Having your pet microchipped and wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags is a good idea too.

Caring Hands Animal Hospital offers an open and friendly environment with four locations that are fully accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Services include wellness care, vaccinations, comprehensive dental care, puppy and kitten care and a welcoming and knowledgeable staff.

There are TWO big dog wash events to benefit TWO great organizations:

TO BENEFIT VIRGINIA GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE:
Saturday December 5
11:00-3:00
Bark N Bubbles Herndon Location (795 Center Street, Herndon, VA, 703-437-9274)
Volunteers on had to wash your dog. Donations start at $25 and benefit VA German Shepherd Rescue. Some German Shepherd dogs available for adoption

TO BENEFIT FRIENDS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS:
Sponsored and organized by the Northern Virginia Professional Pet Sitters Network
Saturday December 12
11:00-3:00
Bark N Bubbles Fairfax Location (11725 Lee Highway, #A-17A)
NOVA Pet Sitter volunteers on had to wash your dog. Donations start at $25 and benefit Friends of Homeless Animals

I know we are all about the DOGS here at NOVADog Magazine, but let’s spread some good cheer in the direction of our feline friends this holiday season.

December 12 and December 19: Caroling with Cats. On these two special Saturday evenings, Animal Welfare League of Alexandria staff, volunteers and residents invite everyone to join us for songs, snacks and “arfs and crafts!” The shelter will be open until midnight, so feel free to stop by for a late night snuggle with our shelter residents or a cup of cocoa and a sweet treat. If you’re not feeling very tuneful, our hounds can sing a tune for you!

More info: http://www.alexandriaanimals.org/~awla/special_events.cfm