Author Archive
Non-meat and fish dog foods
There are so many alternative foods for dogs who can't, or don't want to, eat meat or fish. The choice of plant and insect-based foods is wider than ever, so interesting to research if you are looking for something different.
After the heatwave
Having had more than a week's heatwave, it's nice to have some cooler weather. It has been interesting to find inventive ways to keep the dogs cool, but some of them can be put on hold until the next heatwave,
The gentle touch
Most dogs enjoy us touching, stroking or gently patting them. While it can relax them or encourage them to play or socialise, we must be mindful that some dogs might also be wary or overwhelmed by too much touching. Part of building a trusting relationship with our dogs is to work out their character and what they do or don't find comfortable.
The zoomies
Does your dog sometimes have a fit of the zoomies? I don't mean the online meeting platform, rather those times when suddenly your dog charges around at top speed. There are a few theories about this behaviour, relieving stress, cooling down or attention-seeking, but I think they're just having fun!
Have a spring sort out!
We all collect dog toys, coats, blankets, leads and other items, so perhaps now is a good time to check what your dog still uses and what could be passed on to other dog owners, animal charities or shops.
Spring is here
Now that our clocks have changed forward, the lovely, light evenings have begun. Hopefully, our weather will remain spring-like so that our dog walks and outings can be a bit drier!
Getting just the right photo
Candid or modelled photos of our dogs are such lovely souvenirs. I am lucky to so often have the New Forest as a backdrop for doggy photos, which can really show off a dog's beauty and character.
Have a wash and brush up!
The weather might be slowly improving but a lot of dogs are still managing to get wet and muddy! While warm water is our main tool, there are so many lovely products now, shampoos, conditioners, paw creams and so on; just make sure you choose doggy products and that your dog is not allergic or sensitive to to the ingredients.
On the bed or sofa?
I often hear debates about whether dogs should be allowed onto their owners' furniture. The simple answer is that whatever works for you is right for you, as long as you're consistent from the word go. If they do go on it, there is a huge choice of blankets and throws to protect it, otherwise there's a similar choice of beds and cushions for the floor. When dogs stay with me they can do whatever they usually do at home, I rather like a dog snuggling next to me on the sofa!
Longer days are on their way
There are buds coming, gradually longer days and the odd spot of sunshine, so spring is on its way! There is a lot of standing water in the New Forest after the recent storms but I'm still enjoying my doggy walks and outings. Thank goodness for showers and towels - for dogs and humans!
My charges
I offer an affordable dog boarding service, and will give you a discounted rate for entrusting more than one dog to my care. 1st dog per day: £20 day care/£25 holiday ...
