Enjoying Dog Walks

Dog Walking 101: Tips to Make Your Outings Safe & Fun

It can be a job or a joy, pet parents, but we’ve all got to do it—yup, we’re talking about walking the dog! The beginning of spring is a great time to consider some ways to reinvent this daily ritual and make it more enjoyable for the both of you. Whether you’re a proud new pup parent or a long-time, experienced dog handler, our experts have got some advice for you. Who says you can’t teach an old owner new tricks?
Among the tips you’ll find in the complete article:- "Retractable leashes are best reserved for walks in the park, when it’s safe for a dog to explore a bit further away from her pet parent,” says the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center’s Kristen Collins, CPDT. NOT a good idea if you’re walking in an area with high foot traffic or off-leash dogs, as the long line may get wrapped around your dog, a person’s leg or another dog.
- Walk with buddies. If your dog likes other dogs, consider group walks. You can either borrow a friend’s dog to accompany you, or invite family and friends who have dogs to meet you somewhere.
- Even though popular spring plants like tulips and daffodils add much to our landscape, they can cause significant stomach problems for our furry friends. If your pooch likes to stop and smell—or nibble—the flowers, keep him on a short leash during walks.
Read the complete article Dog Walking 101.

Reprinted from an ASPCA newsletter

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Keep your dog safe over the holidays

It's oh so tempting to slip Fido a bite of Christmas pudding. But no! Dogs' digestive systems are not set up for our rich holiday treats. They cannot digest many of the ingredients that we take for granted, such as chocolate and nuts; and the result is often severe diarrhea. So, don't want to get up at 4am after an evening of holiday cheer? Limit your pup to treats that are intended for her.


In extreme cases chocolate can have a toxic effect on dogs, and even cause death. If Fluffy has consumed half a pound of Fannie Farmers' best, call your veterinarian's emergency number immediately. If somebody goofed and poor Fido is frozen in "the position" in the back yard, stop feeding him roughage. Fast him for 12 hours, but leave plenty of fresh, cool water around, 'cause diarrhea dehydrates a fellow. After that feed him something very bland and smooth for 24 hours, like boiled rice with a little hamburger cooked in for taste. Cottage cheese is a good adder too.


Like kids, our canine companions depend on us to keep them safe from hazardous materials that look like toys. Mistletoe, christmas lights, tinsel, wires, ornaments, poinsettas, and pine needles will all make your pup sick if she chews them. It's also best to put gifts where she can't get at them without your supervision, or crate her if she's allowed in the same room as the tree and gifts. Pet shops carry dog-safe ornaments that you can put on the bottom branches of your tree.

Meet Ericka our new Daycare Supervisor

Ericka came to us from another MA dog daycare where she only worked part time.  We're delighted to have her at The Doggie Den as a full time daycare supervisor.  The pups love her ... and she gets them to listen!!  Watch her give Peso his treat for his 6th birthday.

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