National Dog Week

NATIONAL DOG WEEK

September 19-25

Hello!

Well, it's about time...National Dog Week is upon us and canines far and wide are basking in its glory! Depending upon who you ask, September or October are National Service Dog Month! There seems to be some discontinuity on that. I've been researching it for several months and cannot tell you which month celebrates our fabulous service dogs. If I ever figure it out, I will let you know! As far as National Dog Week, I have a distinct feeling that readers of this blog already love their dogs to bits, and don't need a National Dog Week to remind them of all the benefits dog ownership defers upon them!

Remind those uninformed masses that haven't had the love and companionship of a dog to remember to celebrate the week by visiting a dog park and getting to know canines, taking a family canine on a walk, volunteering at a local shelter, or better yet, if they are in a place to do so, adopting a dog in need at their local shelter. They will never regret it~ if they have done their research beforehand about canine needs, different breeds and life-style fits.

Like adopting a child, adopting a dog is a huge commitment. It is at least a fifteen year (or more in the case of smaller dogs!) commitment. Do your research beforehand. Make sure you can give a good home. If you can~ hooray! Now you can bring in your very own doggie pics and wow your friends, co-workers and neighbors!

Make sure you have thought out what to do with your pup when you are at work. Don't expect your dog to understand why you leave him alone all those hours. See? There are so many things to think through...Do you have a fenced yard for him to run around in? Will you be up to walking your dog in all sorts of weather and all times of the day if you don't? Are you a reliable caretaker, who provides good nourishment and fresh water at all times? What if you get sick? Do you have someone to help you take good care of your dog? Do you have access to a good veterinarian? Do you have the money to pay for good vet care and food? Are your significant others and family supportive of you getting a pet? Are you allergic? (get a fish then!) Are you willing to take allergy medicine or shots so you have the privilege of owning a dog? (A local vet became allergic to some of his clients, and had to go on shots and pills...he loves his job and his clients so it was a no-brainer to him~ he was ready to go that extra mile.) Are you? Are you ready to train your dog in basic obedience so that he is a pleasant dog to be around and doesn't take over your home? (Read Jennifer Arnold's books on loving, easy dog training and read how your dog thinks). Do your reading and research BEFORE you pick your dog...he will thank you for it, and you will make this big step much easier on yourself, because it IS a big step.

After reading all that you probably are scared to death to even look at a dog. Don't be. It's just that the world has become such a disposable society~ if you buy a dress and it doesn't fit, no big deal...just give it away or return it. A living being isn't disposable, so if you take it on, know the implications before you take the leap. Always do what is in the best interests of your dog, just as you would your child...because quite literally, his life is in your hands. And in return, what will you get?

You will get: Joyful wiggles and nuzzles waking you in the morning! An understanding listening ear, who is always on your side, no matter what. Pup kisses to the millionth degree! An appreciation for living in the moment, loving life and being happy with who you are! Pup hugs and cuddles! Someone who is ecstatic when you return home...even if you've been gone ten minutes! You will get someone who will ALWAYS love you and will do so till his last dying breath....that is what you will get in return, and so much more!

Happy dog week!

To celebrate dog week, Lupine, a manufacturer of very nice, sturdy collars and leashes is giving out free dog ID tags with a purchase of $25 or more. These are great quality, and come with a lifetime guarantee, and that includes being chew-proof! They are fantastic for larger dogs. Check them out at :

http://store.lupinepet.com/

#NationalDogWeek