Monthly Archives: February 2016

Things To Consider When Moving With Your Dog | Northern Virginia

Moving dog Virginia

As life moves forward and changes transpire, sometimes we are put in a position that requires us or inspires us to make a move. Sometimes, that can be a hard task to endeavor when you are considering others besides yourself. The task is no easier when that special being your are considering is your most loyal companion. Here is a list to consider when making that big move with your canine pal.

Walking Space: An important question to ask and examine is where you will walk your dog. You’ll want to consider having a green area nearby, whether it be a park or grassy square, that allows and encourages your canine pal to “take care of business.”

Climbing Stairs: If your dog is older or has difficulty climbing stairs, moving to an apartment or loft that is not on the ground floor may become tricky and difficult for your pup. Whether you like it or not, another thought to consider is how accessible an emergency exit would be for little Lassie or Spot. It is important that your pet has a feasible way to exit to ground level regardless of whether they are stretching their legs, or taking a bathroom break.

Flooring: For those with accident-prone puppies, you may be familiar with the difficulties of keeping a carpet clean. When deciding on a new home, it is important to take into account the type of flooring and how this can affect your pup and the cleanliness of your humble abode. A carpet is more difficult to keep clean as it traps odors and fur. However, if you have an older dog, a wood floor or tile floor is more difficult on joints and can lead to accidents and slips for the older canine.

Window Location: Paying special attention to window location is another important factor when deciding on a new home. Low-lying windows will lead to greater incidents of reactionary barking from your pup. However, if you don’t mind the noise, or have neighbors, the same windows can provide an engaging activity for your dog as they keep their eye on what’s happening outside.

Neighbors: If you are considering a new home or apartment, you should also be considering the neighbors. This is also important to examine on your pet’s behalf. If other dogs live nearby, this could lead to problems in the future if your dog gets a bit over-excited in the presence of new dogs. Lots of barking and noise problems can be avoided if you take this factor into consideration beforehand.

Location of Utilities: If contemplating a move into an older apartment or house, you may have to factor in the location of heaters or other gas-related utilities. Poorly concealed objects such as these can pose a threat to your pet if they are running around or throwing chew toys every which way.

Security: The last factor to note is how secure the exits are in your new home or apartment. A poorly secured window or loose-locking door can lead to a pet that has the means to quickly dart out on his or her next adventure. Make sure your new home is just that for your pup – a home, a safe, restful sanctuary that provides comfort and happiness.

Are you moved to your new location and need help with your dog?

Contact Off Leash K9 Training!

info@offleashk9training.com

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888-413-0896

Hiking With Your Dogs In Northern Virginia

We’ve all heard that a dog is the best and most loyal friend a human being could ask for. When you think about it, they are also one of the easiest companions to pass time with. Not only are they always eager and willing when it comes to the next adventure, but they’re ALWAYS positive and energetic during the proposed activity. The greatest traits contained in one small, furry, four-legged soul. What’s more, the excitement, positivity, and eagerness are heightened when they are participating in lively, stimulating outdoor activities. For the dedicated dog lover, this is reason enough to bring along our beloved canine pals on all of our exploratory outdoor experiences. As our minds start rolling, and our brains planning, here are some tips to examine and employ in consideration of our pup companions.

Before packing up your dog and heading out for a weekend full of camping and backpacking, it is important to make sure you’re well aware of any physical limitations your pet may have. Tip number one is to make sure your furry pal is in good physical condition for the hike or trip ahead. If you plan on having your dog carry any load during the hike, make sure it is weight they can bear. You can build their strength and up their capacity to carry a load by having them practice during daily walks. In considering physical limitations, you’ll also want to consider the camping or hiking destination. A terrain that is too dangerous or not conducive to your domesticated pet could lead to an unfortunate injury. In any case, when participating in longer hikes and camping adventures, the potential for injury exists. Another good tip is to carry a first-aid kit to utilize in case of emergency.

Now, considering what to pack, plenty of food and water is essential. Just like you, your precious pup will require ample hydration while being active. Counting on finding water for your canine companion throughout the hike will not suffice. The H20 your pet may come across while galavanting through the wilderness may contain bacteria that is harmful to both dog and human alike. Your pup’s veterinarian is a good resource to utilize when considering how much food and water to pack. From them you’ll be able to find out how much more food your dog should be fed when preparing, embarking, and enjoying their outdoor adventure.

Another tip to regard is based on weather circumstances. If you are hiking or camping in colder temperatures, which is likely, you’ll want to make sure your pet is prepared in way of a warm coat and sleeping gear. As temperatures drop, your pet is no different from you – they need extra warmth. Though their furry coats assist in providing this extra heat, they are often times not enough.

The last tip to consider gives you something to think about when the hike or camping trip has concluded. Because they may have been exposed to wilderness-thriving insects and critters, it is important to check your pup for ticks, mites, fleas, and the like. A nice bath will definitely be necessary to rid your canine of any irritants that may have manifested themselves throughout your hiking or camping journey.

If you want your dog to be able to have amazing obedience that way they can be off leash and well behaved during your nature hikes, contact Off Leash K9 Training!

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888-413-0896
info@offleashk9training.com

Nick White
Owner/Founder
Off Leash K9 Training