Play in the Leaves
Leaves will fall, and you will inevitably have large piles of them gathered up in your yard! Remember when you played in them as a kid?! So much fun! Gather together your kids and your pooch(es) and enjoy those leaves again! Run and jump into those huge fluffy piles of leaves, and your pet will surely follow you!

Take your pet on a hike!
Fall is the perfect hiking weather, and what better way to enjoy the trails than with your pooch? Here at the Smoky Mountain National Park, pets aren’t allowed on most of the trails, but your pet can join you on the Gatlinburg Trail, and at the City Parks! And if you come stay in a pet friendly cabin, feel free to take your pet for a walk in the woods near there! Just remember to scoop up after your pet, keep them on a leash, watch out for bears, and don’t get lost in the woods!

Dress Up For Halloween
If you’re the kind of pet-lover that occasionally enjoys dressing up your pet, this is the perfect excuse! Not only can you dress up your pet, but you can also dress up yourself too and make the perfect duo! Dorothy & Toto, Lassie & her boy, Nana & Peter Pan or the Darling Kids, Rin-Tin-Tin & Lee Duncan, or your own favorite duo!

Fall Doggie Treats
Brew yourself some apple cider, and make your pet some homemade Fall Treats! Bullwinkle.com has tons of recipes for homemade dog treats! A couple that sound like Fall are Apple Cinnamon Drops and the Thanksgiving Treat.

Enjoy a Pumpkin Together
Carve out a Pumpkin to make a fun Fall decoration or cook up a delicious pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cheesecake or more! Whatever you do, don’t forget about your pet! Pumpkin is actually recommended as part of a healthy diet for dogs. It should make up no more than a 1/4 of their diet, and make sure if you are using a fresh pumpkin, that you thoroughly cook whatever you give your dog, as fresh, raw pumpkin is difficult for them to digest. If you are using canned pumpkin and would like to share some with your pooch, just make sure it is plain 100% pumpkin, with no added sugar or spices! The pumpkin gives them added fiber, which helps their digestive system, and also helps their coat of fur stay healthy, glossy, and beautiful!

Rent a Pet-Friendly Cabin
Fall is the most popular time to come to the Smokies, and we know you don’t want to leave your beloved pet behind! ERA in the Smokies has several pet-friendly cabins and chalets for you to choose from when you come to enjoy the Smokies! Enjoy those hikes, pumpkins, and leaves with your pet here in the Smokies, and at the end of the day, curl up with your pet by the fire, in front of a good movie, or with a great book!

1. How to Get Your Wallaby
This is probably the only real downside about a pet wallaby. You may have to travel a little way to get it, and they are a bit pricey! The best way to go about it is to first find a vet in your area that works with exotic pets (you will need to be friends with them anyway!) and ask them for a reference to the nearest dependable breeder. You will then have to contact them and travel to the breeder to pick up your new cuddly friend! Prices vary, but $1,000 seems about average to get a baby wallaby and a starter set of items you will need to care for it!

2. What to feed your Wallaby
One of the great things about wallabies is that since they enjoy eating grass and leaves, you may never need to mow your lawn again! However, you will need to supplement their diet with Kangaroo and Wallaby food, which you can order in, or a mix of horse and rabbit feed, which you can pick up at the local Co-op!

3. Potty Train Your Wallaby
This seems to be somewhat like house training your dog! Most wallabies can be house trained (or at least trained to do their business on a newspaper or designated pad of some sort) if you start teaching them when they are babies. And of course, you do get those animals every once in a while that refuse to be house trained!

4. Sleeping Arrangements
This is one of the most fun parts (in my mind)!  Your wallaby will sleep in a pouch! You can make one, or if you are less crafty, you can buy one or get a crafty friend to make you one. It will need to be made of thick fleece, and hung securely on the wall. You just train it to sleep in there when it’s younger, and as it gets older it will just jump right in when it’s time to go to bed!

5. Is it legal to own a pet wallaby?
Most state level governments could care less, but you should check your city’s laws on the subject as it varies from place to place!

6. What makes this a good pet?
Besides being innately cool, wallabies just have a great pet personality! They cuddle, lick, and play just like dogs! If you are considering getting a dog for any of these reasons, why not get a wallaby instead!?

My dogs like to play hard!  Wesley, my Australian Shepherd, especially loves to destroy all his toys!  He eats the stuffing from plush toys, shreds ropes, rips out squeakers, and eats plastic!  This is both expensive and potentially dangerous!!!  If this sounds familiar, you may want to read on about our favorite ”dog-proof” toys.

Frisbees

We started out playing with .99 cent or free frisbees, but before long they were destroyed and eaten!  A good puncture proof frisbee is essential.

Hyperflite makes a great indestructible frisbee.  The Jawz disc is the toughest and best-flying puncture-resistant disc ever made!  My dog has had his for years and it still has no holes.  Just keep in mind, this disc doesn’t float! (We learned this the hard way…)

Squeaky Toys

We love squeaky toys, but I hate to see them destroyed instantly!  Our solution: Ruffians, by JW Pet.  These sturdy dog toys are made of durable, natural rubber and are great for dogs who are hard on their toys.  This is the only squeaky toy that has lasted in more than 1 day in our house; in fact it’s lasted for months so far!

Chew Toys

The Kong has got to be the best dog toy ever!  Kongs come in all different sizes and textures for dogs of all sizes and ages.  Not only is the Kong impossible for (most) dogs to destroy, but when you stuff it with peanut butter, treats, or Kong Stuff’N Treats, your dog will be occupied for hours!  Your dog will love you for it!

Balls

If your dog has ever eaten a tennis ball, check this out!  Maybe you are already familiar with the Chuckit Ball Launchers, but now instead of tennis balls, they are making all sorts of tough, durable specialty rubber balls.  Both the Remmy and the Rebounce are made of recycled rubber.

Plush Toys

Are you was tired of buying expensive stuffed toys, only to find them ripped up days later?  Here’s one way to save money:  Stop paying for new toys at the pet store.  Instead, head to a local thrift shop and get some inexpensive used stuffed toys.  I’ve found perfect dog toys for 25-50 cents each!  Of course if your dog is going to rip the nose off and eat the stuffing right away, then this too, is a waste of time and money!

Here’s one toy we haven’t tried yet, but sounds like it might be a perfect solution for rough dogs that love plush pals!  Kyjen Hard Boiled Softies look soft, but under their plush exteriors is a hard rubber shell.  These egg-shaped animals even have a “yolk” squeaker inside and stand up to the toughest chewers!

Here are some tips to help make your next trip as enjoyable as possible for both you and your dog!

Bring a crate – A crate is your dog’s home away from home.  If you use a crate regularly, the familiar smells and feel of it will help your dog relax during your exciting vacation!  In addition, this also ensures that both your dog and your cabin will be safe if you need to leave him unattended.

Health Documentation– It is always smart to bring a health certificate showing that your dog is up to date on all of his vaccinations when traveling.  Air and international travel actually require it!

Identification – Make sure you and your dog will be reunited if he should get lost!  You can have an ID tag made for your dog’s collar at most pet stores or at LuckyPet.com.  Include your cell phone number so you can be reached while on vacation.  It is also a good idea to bring a recent photo of your dog, just in case!

Please Be Courteous!

• Clean-up after your dog during his potty walk.
• Try to keep your dog as quiet as possible, especially if there are other guests staying nearby.
• Keep your dog on a leash when outside.
• Respect the Park Rules: Dogs are not allowed on most trails in the National Park.  Please respect this rule and take your dog on the Gatlinburg Trail or to the National Forest instead. 

And Most Importantly….Have Fun!!!

Read more about safe and responsible pet travel at the American Kennel Club.

“Military Working Dogs have been used by the U.S. Military since World War I. American families donated their dogs to the military to aid our troops during wartime. Dogs, along with their volunteer handlers, trained in teams as scouts, trackers, sentry, mine/booby-trap/tunnel and water detection of hostile forces. Dogs were used in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. It has been estimated that these courageous canine heroes saved over 10,000 lives during the conflict in Vietnam.”

“The program that deals with the Department of Defense Military working dog program is the United States Air Force. Air Force Dog handlers work with their canines to train and detect explosives, or find drugs in a number of different situations. There are over 1300 working Dog handler teams worldwide, and the working dogs from the other services; Army, Navy, and Marine Corps have been through the Air Force Dog Handler Team program.”

“Today, police forces in most major cities use police dogs to track criminals, sniff out illegal materials, search buildings, and do other jobs human police officers can’t do as well as a dog can. Not only are there thousands of police dogs on the job on any given day, but there are also hundreds of police dogs who have given their lives to protect and serve.”

In the days of horse-drawn fire carts, Dalmatians provided a special service! “Dalmatians and horses are very compatible, so the dogs were easily trained to run in front of the engines to help clear a path and guide the horses and the firefighters to the fires quickly… The dogs were first used in the fire service when most fire companies were volunteer or privately operated. There was some competition for services. Some of the firefighters were actually recruited not only for their strength in fighting fire but for their fighting abilities to protect the company and its equipment. Insurance companies paid the fire company that put out the fire, so the one that made it to the scene, hooked up to a hydrant and completed the task, got paid. The dogs worked well at this task of protecting not only the horses, but the equipment in the stations and on the fire ground as well.”

No longer do horse-drawn fire carts and their horses need Dalmatians to run with them. These days firefighters, as well as other first responders, use dogs more for search and rescue, both in fire-related situations, and in other disaster relief. “Founded in 1996, the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Ojai, California. [Their] mission is to strengthen disaster response in America by recruiting rescued dogs and partnering them with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters. [They] offer the professionally trained canines and an ongoing training program at no cost to fire departments. And [they] ensure lifetime care for every dog in [their] program: once rescued, these dogs never need to be rescued again.” Now that’s pretty cool! Taking rescued dogs and making them rescue dogs!

So to all service dogs past, and present: Thank you!

Most dogs love to “go for a ride”!

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind next time you and your pup are traveling together.

1. Seatbelts

Have you ever considered having your dog wear a seatbelt in the car?  Some people laugh at the idea, but the safety it provides for both you and your pet can be life-saving.

 First, it protects your pet incase of an accident.  Remember the last time you had to slam on your brakes and your dog flew into the dashboard?  Wearing a seatbelt prevents this from happening.

 Personally, my number one reason to have my dog wear a seatbelt is to make him sit still!  It is difficult and dangerous to drive if you are wrestling with your dog.

 Coastal Pet Products makes a simple adapter that turns any harness into a seatbelt.

 If you don’t already have a harness for your dog, you may want to get one that can also be used as a seatbelt.  My dog has a Canine Friendly Vest Harness.  This 3-in-1harness is both a seatbelt, walking harness, and chest protector all in one.  You can shop for this product online at Gear4dogs.com.

 2. Heat

Please do not EVER leave your pet in the car on a hot summer day!  According to the ASPCA, “It only takes ten minutes on an 85-degree day for the inside of your car to reach 102 degrees” even with the windows open!  In 30 minutes, it can reach 120 degrees!  Parking in the shade may help a little bit, but it is still extremely dangerous to leave your dog in the car in the summer.  Please do not do this to your best friend!

3. Water

Make sure you bring a bottle of water for your dog.  Next time you stop to stretch your legs and grab something to drink, consider your furry friend:  he’s probably thirsty too! 

 Check out the Handi-drink.  This is a water bottle with a bowl attached.  I have one for my dogs and it is great for road trips!

Here are some creative ways to wear out your pup and keep him healthy!

Fetch

If your dog doesn’t seem to be tired after a good game of fetch, you might want to try putting a new twist on it.

Hills – Try playing fetch from the top of a small hill.  It’s easy to throw farther and your dog will really have to work coming back up.  If he’s not used to this, don’t over do it; he’ll probably be worn out after just a  few throws!

Swimming – If your dog is comfortable in the water, and you have access, try throwing a toy into a lake or pond (just make sure it floats before you throw it!).  If you have access to a river or the ocean, be very careful: never allow your dog to enter fast moving water.  Also, don’t throw too far.  (This is a good way to lose your toy, or your dog!)  I always start out with close throws and gradually increase the distance.

 Practice Commands- If your dog really enjoys playing fetch, use this opportunity to practice what you both learned in obedience class.  Practice commands like, “release” or “leave-it” when your dog brings you the ball or Frisbee.  When you are getting ready to throw, have your dog “sit” and “stay” until you give him permission to go.  Your dog will be happy to work for you when he is being rewarded by play.

Hide-and-Seek

I love playing this game with my dog.  It makes me laugh, and it provides him with mental stimulation.  If you are not in a fenced area, you will need two people: one to hide, and one to hold the leash.  When my dog stops to sniff something, I run ahead and hide behind something (usually a tree).  When he notices I am gone, he races off to find me, usually running right past my hiding spot!  He gets so excited when he finds me and it seems to strenthen our bond.

Find-It

Here is a variation of Hide-and-Seek.  Show your dog a treat, and have him “stay” while you hide it in another room (just don’t hide it too well).  When you are ready, tell your dog to “find it!”  If you have a food motivated dog, he’ll be sure to love this game.

Try a Canine Sport

There are a number of different sports you and your dog can try.  Find out what classes are available in your area. 

 Agility – The Obstacle Course

This sport consists of an obstacle course: tunnel, teeter-totter, A-frame, etc.  Though it is most popular with herding breeds (border collies, Australian shepherds, etc.), dogs of any breed and size can enjoy and excel in this sport!  Try out a beginning agility class. 

Freestyle – Dancing Dogs

This sport is relatively new and gaining popularity fast! An obedience, dance, and trick routine is choreographed to music and performed as a team (you and your dog)!  

Rally – Racing, Agility, and Obedience

Here is another new canine sport that is quickly becoming popular!  Each team (handler and dog) go through a course consisting of 10-20 stations.  At each station the team must follow the instructions on the sign, usually something learned in obedience class.  Complete the course as quickly and with a few errors as you can!

Exercise Safely!

Just like with us humans, you don’t want to over do it!  If your dog hasn’t had much exercise in a while, start him out with something easy.  Take time to warm-up before and cool-down after exercise.  Always pay attention to your dog; you will be able to tell from his body language, how much and what kind of exercise is right for him!

 1. Clean-up after your dog. Scoop the poop!

According to Poopbags.com, 20-30% of all pollutants in waterways are attributed to dog waste.  Try out these biodegradable baggies, made from corn and other renewable resources.

 2. Natural or Organic pet foods.  No artificial flavors or preservatives, no pesticides or fertilizers!

Zuke’s makes all natural dog and cat treats.  Based out of Durango, Colorado, all treats are made in the USA and have no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.  My dog loves their treats!  Mini-naturals are bite-sized and perfect for training.  Most of their treats are soft, and great for older dogs with sensitive teeth.

 3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Buy durable, long-lasting toys and donate or recycle them after your dog is done.

 Planet Dog, based out of Portland, Maine makes doggie everything, from treats to toys!  Think Globally, Act Doggedly!

All Orbee-Tuff® toys  are 100% recyclable, and all post production material is reused and made into more toys!  When your toys get worn out, you can return them to Planet Dog to be recycled into new toys!

 4. Support Green Companies.

 Earth Dog is a Tennessee-based company specializing in hemp collars, leashes, beds, and chew toys. Good for the Earth, Even Better for your Dog! 

Here are some benefits of using Hemp:

• Stronger than cotton
• 100% biodegradable
• Hypoallergenic
• Grown pesticide/herbicide free
• Has no illicit use (contrary to popular opinion!)

Learn more about this carbon neutral company’s Eco-friendly Efforts.

 5. Buy Locally

When you buy locally, products do not have to be shipped as far, reducing emissions and fuel consumption.  In addition, it helps the economy in your community!  Find out what your area has to offer and take your pooch shopping!  Check out that cute local pet shop or visit a farmer’s market! 

Gatlinburg is going to have a new Farmer’s Market, beginning Saturday, May 22nd!  Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a leash!

Gatlinburg Goes Green.

Check  out what the City of Gatlinburg is doing to  “Go Green”.

The Gatlinburg Trail is the only trail allowing dogs on the

Yesterday, I took my two Australian shepherds, Wesley and Merlin for a walk on the Gatlinburg Trail.  This 2- mile trail connects downtown Gatlinburg with Sugarlands Visitor Center, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  There is parking available at the trailhead on River Road, just inside the park entrance.

About a half-a-mile down the trail, we stop at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance Sign.  Wesley and Merlin insist on having their picture by the sign.  Shortly after the Entrance Sign, a wooden bench offers us a place for a quick rest. 

Even though this trail is close the main road (Rt. 441), we are surrounded by nature!  All along the trail I hear red-eyed vireos and warblers singing.  There are all sorts of beautiful wildflowers!

Around the corner, an arched bridge takes us across the river.  On the other side, we catch a glimpse of a belted kingfisher flying along the river.

Along the entire length of the trail are lots of great spots to access the Little Pigeon River.  Both dogs love the water!  The current is strong in places, and dogs must be leashed at all times in the Park.  Still on their leashes, the boys wade in to their chests, just deep enough to cool off.

About a mile from Gatlinburg, we come to what remains of an old house: a chimney, and nothing else.  We see another fireplace and chimney nearby, and I try to imagine the home that once stood around it.

Although the trail continues all the way to the Visitor Center, Wesley, Merlin, and I turn around after about 1.5 miles.  The remainder of the trail passes by the Park maintenance area, follows along the road, and weaves around Headquarters.

As we head back into the hustle and bustle of town, I think of how lucky we are to have such a beautiful and conveniently located nature trail that is dog-friendly!

Want to learn more about nature along the trail? Try a naturalist led “Pooch and Pal Trek” on the Gatlinburg Trail with A Walk in the Woods.

You can still enjoy the Park! 
Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows leashed dogs on two trails: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.  The Gatlinburg Trail starts in Gatlinburg and follows the Little Pigeon River for 2 miles through hemlock forest to Sugarlands Visitor Center.  I haven’t yet checked out the Oconaluftee River Trail, which is in Cherokee, NC, but it sounds just as nice, following the Oconaluftee River for 1.5 miles.
In addition to these two dog-friendly trails, dogs are allowed in picnic areas, campgrounds, and roads (on a leash of course).  Some of the quieter areas (especially in the off-season) like Greenbrier or Cosby may be nice roads to walk a dog on.

Try a Guided Hike
A Walk in the Woods is a Nature Guide Service that offers guided walks and hikes anywhere from 1 hr to a few days.  I was excited to see that they offer a dog-friendly nature walk: Pooch and Pal Trek!  For $20 you and your canine companion can enjoy a 1 hour walk with a naturalist on the Gatlinburg Trail

Check out a City Park
In addition to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville also have their own City Parks.  Leashed dogs are welcome at all parks. 

Go Shopping
The Village Shops – 27 Unique Boutiques!
The Village features brick pathways and fountains, with a European atmosphere and is located at traffic light 6 on the Parkway in Gatlinburg.

• Simply Animals – THE pet accessory shop in Gatlinburg
  Pick out some Smoky Mountain souvenirs for Fido.
• Coffee and Company – Gourmet Coffee Shop and Roaster
  Enjoy your morning coffee with your pup in their outdoor seating area.
•  The Doughnut Friar –Fresh Doughnuts Daily!- 865-436-7306

 Paws and Claws Pet Fashions -  Gifts for the pet lover and sports fan
611 Parkway, Mountain Mall, Gatlinburg- (865) 430-5082

Have Lunch on a Patio
The following restaurants allow well-behaved dogs of any size and breed on their patios.
Howard’s Restaurant – Streamside Dining
Best Italian Cafe and Pizzeria- Literally, the “BEST” locally!
Between traffic lights 8 and 9, tucked back in the Elks Plaza shopping center.
Lineberger’s Seafood – Downtown Gatlinburg
903 Parkway at traffic light 8; (865) 436-9284

Gatlinburg

Mills Park
Sinks, grills, and picnic tables
The jogging trail at Mills Park would be a good place to walk a dog.  But keep in mind, this park has a disc-golf course (my dog would want to chase the Frisbees!).
Mills Park Road, just off Rt. 321– near the Glades

Herbert Holt Park
Walking trails
Grills and picnic tables right by the Little Pigeon River
Pigeon River Road – right off the parkway coming into town

Mynatt Park
Grills, picnic tables and covered pavilion.
Ashbury Lane – downtown, traffic light 8

Pigeon Forge

Riverwalk Greenway
2 miles along the Pigeon River
Entrances at Patriot Park, Butler Street, and Jake Thomas Road

City Park
Trail System with three loops, ranging between .75 miles, and 1.25 miles
Pavilions with grill and picnic tables.
Located by the Pigeon Forge Community and behind Kroger.

Patriot Park
Gazebo and pavilion
Half-mile walking trail
Special events year-round

Sevierville

4 Walking Trails
Municipal Complex Trail—0.6 miles
Memorial Greenway—1.8 miles
City Park Trail—0.5 miles
Northview Park Trail—0.3 miles

City Park
Picnic areas and shelters
Lighted walking trail with covered bridge along river.
Park Road, off of the Parkway – close to downtown

Northview Optimist Park
24 acres of fields and picnic areas
Lighted .3 mile walking trail

Dancing Bear is in Sky Harbor, conveniently located between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This is an adorable cabin with an open floor plan! The main level boasts a King sized bed, an indoor whirlpool tub, a full kitchen, and a comfortable sitting area with TV and gas fireplace! The downstairs is a gameroom with pool table and sleeper sofa! And of course there’s a hot tub out on the deck with a nice mountain view and woods surrounding you!  See More Pictures & Check Availability 

Starry Nights is a dream log home located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg! With cathedral ceilings and huge picture windows, this cabin lets you enjoy the beauty of the nature around from the luxury furnishings of the inside or from the wonderful hot tub on the deck! This cabin also boasts a beautiful wood fireplace, free high speed wireless internet, a pool table, air hockey, 6 cable TV’s and even a Playstation II with a few games! What more could you want!   See More Pictures & Check Availability!

It seems very very odd to me, but my dogs swarm the kitchen like a pack of wolves if I am making vegetable soup.  I think Pepper (the Sheperd mix) would rather have a carrot than meat–no kidding.  Thanks to this article at Purina.com, I now know my pups aren’t the only ones:

Do dogs really enjoy eating vegetables?

But be careful because some veggies are toxic! Four to avoid completely are onions, garlic, avocados, and mushrooms.

Remember to keep your dog away from vegetable plants, too, as the leaves, seeds, and flowers can be poisonous to pets.

If you decide to feed your dog vegetables, limit them to one-fourth of his total daily food intake, and be sure to include a high quality source of protein in your dog’s diet.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

Dogs enjoy a fresh-baked treat as much as anyone.  The Humane Society of the United States published this recipe for Bowser Biscuits by Catherine Hess.

Bowser Biscuits (picture by Thomas Holbrook)

2 c. cooked & cool carrots
1 ripe banana, peeled
1 c. soy milk
1-1/2 c. peanut butter
2 Tbsp. molasses
2 c. whole wheat flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 c. nutritional yeast (optional)
2 c. white flour

Plus more flour for dusting

Preheat the oven to 325° F.

Blend the banana and vegetables (you can substitute peas, green beans, or your dog’s favorite vegetable) in a food processor. Add the soy milk, peanut butter, and molasses and blend again.

Sift together the whole wheat flour and baking powder, then add to the wet mixture and blend well.

Pour the batter into a large mixing bowl. Add the nutritional yeast, if using, and 1 cup of white flour and stir thoroughly. Knead in the second cup of white four, adding more flour if necessary to make a stiff dough. Divide the dough into four parts.

Roll out a piece of dough on a floured board to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut it into diamonds or any shape you like. Place the biscuits on an ungreased cookie sheet. It’s okay to put them close together; they won’t spread out.

Bake the biscuits 10 minutes or until they are just starting to brown. Remove the sheet from the oven and turn over the biscuits with a spatula. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. Turn the biscuits again and bake for another 10 minutes. They should be as crisp as crackers.

Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool completely. Give a few to your dog, who has been waiting impatiently, while they are nice and fresh.

Repeat with the other three parts of the dough, or freeze the remaining dough to bake later.

Store the cooled biscuits in a covered container in the refrigerator.

Recipe courtesy of Catherine Hess.

1. Stroller – If your dog is under 30 lbs, a stroller will enable you to take your dog shopping with you in many pet-friendly towns like Gatlinburg.  We like the All Terrain Stroller (pictured right) because it is great for navigating local trails as well as roadsides that may not have sidewalks.

2. Collar, or necklace, depending on your point of view.  Your dog’s collar is one of the rare opportunities to let your dog’s personality be reflected in what they wear.  Whether you have a sporty dog or a diamond diva, a great collar can tell the whole story.

3. Sunglasses – Protect your pooch’s eyes from the wind and dirt with a great pair of sunglasses.  We are partial to the 1980′s throwback in the form of mirrored aviator glasses…and yes, we can hear you humming the theme to Top Gun…we won’t tell.

4. Collapsible Water Bowl – They are great when going for a jog in the neighborhood or for a full day of shopping while on vacation.  Your dog will appreciate not drinking out of your chopped off to-go cup with left-over coffee residue…trust me.  I like to use the Quencher from RuffWear.com .  RuffWear.com also has smaller varieties as well.

5. Dog Wear – I know that no everyone is a fan of dressing dogs in tutus; however, some dogs need at least a sweater during the winter.  If you come to Gatlinburg in the winter, you may want to consider both a sweater or coat AND a pair of shoes if your dog isn’t used to snow and ice.  I love this blue snowflake sweater from Smoky Mountain Doghouse, but if you need something a little sportier for your snow bounding wonder, check out the Climate Changer Fleece Jacket. RuffWear.com also has some great footwear meant for snow and ice as well.

6. Carrier – Chances are good that if I didn’t run you off at the suggestion that your pup needs a good winter sweater, then you probably won’t cringe at the idea of carrying your pet with you wherever you go.  This great Plaid Pet Carrier makes a fashionable statement for winter and will carry up to 15 pounds of furry family.

7. Chew Toy – I don’t know about your pooch, but mine gets car sick.  So, when we know we are traveling for more than 2 hours, my dog doesn’t get food on the day of travel.  I have found that bringing her favorite chew toy is a great distraction from the hunger pangs until we get to our destination.

Click on the Coupon to check out all the Gatlinburg Cabin deals!

When you adopt a dog from any Humane Society there are many responsibilities and lifestyle adjustments to consider.

Vaccinations - All dogs require a veterinary exam, a series of vaccinations and regular grooming. While most Humane Society locations give them their Parvo Distemper (DHLPP) vaccination, Bordatella (INB – kennel cough) and worming, puppies may require additional vaccinations and all dogs will need their Rabies vaccination.

Leash - Your home and yard should provide proper confinement and reasonable space for the size of your dog. When outside, your new dog or puppy should always be on a leash.  Check with your Humane Society for suggestions on the proper leash.

Close Supervision - New house pets should be closely supervised when with other pets and children while they become familiar with their new home.

Food – Make sure to ask what kind of food your new pet has been eating.  Your Humane Society wouldn’t use it if they didn’t recommend it. And, of course, your vet can also provide specific diet recommendations for your dog.

Housebreaking your new pooch should be done with encouraging words. They should be taken outside after meals and right before and after sleeping. Crate training is an effective training method. There is lots of useful training information on the Web and specifically Crate training.

All dogs need exercise, so allow your dog to play outside everyday. Young dogs and puppies may have extra energy, causing them to chew. Try not to leave them alone for long periods of time. Consider crate training to housebreak and curb bad habits. Consider hiring a dog trainer.  If you cannot find a trainer through friends, your Humane Society will probably recommend someone for you.

Your dog’s I.D. tag is one of the very best ways that your new pet can find their way home if they get lost. We strongly recommend these stay attached to a collar worn by your dog at all times.

Don’t Leave Me This Way!

Number-one rule of automobile safety for pets: NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE IN A PARKED CAR! Overheating can kill an animal.

It only takes ten minutes on an 85-degree day for the inside of your car to reach 102 degrees Fahrenheit, even if the windows have been left open an inch or two. Within 30 minutes, the interior can reach 120 degrees—and even when the temperature is a pleasant 70 degrees, the inside of your car may be as much as 20 degrees hotter than the air outside.  Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun is constantly shifting throughout the day. Pets who are young, elderly, or obese are particularly at risk of overheating (hyperthermia), as are those with thick or dark-colored coats, and breeds with short muzzles.

This same precaution carries over to the winter months, too. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing an animal to freeze to death.

Car Travel Tips

Whether you’re going around the block or across the country, the ASPCA recommends that you keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. Make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. You’ll also want to keep in mind:
- Don’t allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window. This can subject him to inner ear damage and lung infections, and he could be injured by flying objects.
- Don’t feed your furry friend in a moving vehicle—even if it’s a long drive.
- Carry a gallon thermos of cold water, or bring along a two-liter plastic bottle of water that you’ve frozen the night before.
- Read more car travel tips.

Winter Weather Precautions

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center urges pet owners to take steps to prevent accidental pet exposures to two potentially dangerous products used during the winter:

Antifreeze products containing ethylene glycol are highly toxic, and can produce life-threatening kidney damage in pets, even in small amounts. Most cases of antifreeze poisoning occur around the pet’s home and are usually due to improper storage or disposal, so it’s important that you take the following precautions:
- Always clean up antifreeze spills immediately.
- Store antifreeze in clearly marked, sealed containers, in areas that are inaccessible to your pets.
- Consider switching to antifreeze products that contain propylene glycol, which are relatively less toxic and provide an extra margin of safety for pets and wildlife.
- Be alert for leaks and spills from neighborhood vehicles when taking your pet on walks during the winter months.

Ice melts are available in both liquid and solid forms, and are commonly used to melt ice and snow on slippery sidewalks, roads and driveways in colder climates.

Ice melts may contain ingredients that, if ingested by pets, can produce effects that include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, excessive thirst, weakness, and low blood pressure; in severe cases, cardiac abnormalities, seizures, coma and even death can result.

If you suspect that your pet may have ingested antifreeze or ice melts, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (800) 426-4435 immediately.

Not So Cool For Cats

During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars for warmth and protection. But a car’s fan belt can kill or injure an animal when the motor starts. If you are aware that there are outdoor or feral cats in your neighborhood, please bang on the hood of the car and wait a few seconds before turning on the engine.

Are you racking your brain for the perfect gift for the pet lover?

Family Return Address Labels. This really fun product consists of family address labels with caricatures of mom, dads, kids and yes, even the pets with names. You can choose the hair and skin color as well as your pet (this includes dogs, cats, horses, small mammals, and even fish!) To order, see www.familylabels.com. Priced from $19.95.

Custom Bumper Stickers of Your Pets. Choose the template of your choice, select and upload your photo , preview, make your payment and your sticker will be mailed to you in 2 weeks. A unique get for any pet lover! Available at stickerstatements.com, $9.85.

Dog-opoly or Cat-opoly Like the human version but an all doggie or kittie game. It comes with with dog houses, bones, dog or cat breed information, $24.99 at www.justforpooches.com.

K9 Fusion Music CD “Who Really Loves You? This is a very funky music CD that unites melancholy yawns and gutteral growls with a psychedelic ride of sound. Steve Brooks, a dog trainer, has his ten-year-old mixed breed dog “Sven” plays each instrument except for the drums. CD contains ten songs and a video short of Sven in action. Available for $ 9.99, k9u.net or 1.866.k9tunes.

Cookie Cutters. Available in a variety of breeds and animal types, this is a great gift for the baker or cook. Sur La Table has a great in store selection of cookies cutters and the best thing is …most are just $1.00. These are great for dog recipes (or for people cookies – just don’t let your dog find out!). They make a great gift tied to a bag of pre-made cookie dough or used as a “bow” to top off a special gift. To find your closest store, visit http://www.surlatable.com. Also available at thelittlefoxfactory.com.

Gemma Cat Doorstop. Don’t be surprised when your kitty doorstop is mistaken for a real tabby. Hefty cat is 100 % cotton stuffed and weighted to pose by your door, $35.00. Available from www.LindaAnderson.com.

Rarin’ to Glow Lights. String these lights along a door, stable or on your tree. Lights are of different horses running. Each string has 10 lights – a great treat for the horse lover. Available from BackintheSaddle.com, $16.95.

Donation in their name to the ASPCA, local shelter, veterinary school or breed club. This is truly a gift from the heart – one that helps the causes your pet lover cherishes.

Original Kit-Cat Klock. This is very retro cool clock is shaped like a black and white cat with a bow tie. It’s tail and eyes that move with the time, $49.00. www.LindaAnderson.com.

Holly, Jolly and Oh-So-Safe! Of course you want to include your furry companions in the festivities, pet parents, but as you celebrate this holiday season, try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible.  The ASPCA reminds you to be sure to steer them clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations:

O Christmas Tree
Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.

Tinsel-less Town
Kittens and cats just love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble of tinsel can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.

No Feasting for the Furries
By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising fur kid will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.

Toy Joy
Looking to stuff your pet’s stockings? Choose gifts that are safe.

• Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.
• Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.

No Mistletoe & Holly
Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting & diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset & cardiovascular problems. Many varieties of lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.

Leave the Leftovers
Fatty, spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won’t lead to costly medical bills.

That Holiday Glow
Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!

Wired Up
Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth.

House Rules
If your animal-loving guests want to give your pets a little extra attention while you’re  tending to the party, let them pet or play with your furry friends.

Put the Meds Away 
Lock away all medications and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.

Careful with Cocktails
If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.

A Room of Their Own
Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.

New Year’s Noise
As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears.

Thanks to ASPCA.org for this great article.  Visit ASPCA.org for more information about Pet Care and Adoption.

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Brrrr…it’s cold outside! 

1. Keep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to infectious diseases, including rabies, from other cats, dogs and wildlife.
2. During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.
3. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm—dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags.
4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.
5. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk. Own a short-haired breed? Consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear.
6. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
7. Puppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult to housebreak during the winter. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to the weather, you may opt to paper-train him inside. If your dog is sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed type, take him outdoors only to relieve himself.
8. Does your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities? Increase your dog’s supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him—and his fur—in tip-top shape.
9. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center more information.
10. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

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Sue Sternberg of Rondout Valley Kennels, Inc.

1. Watch out if your dog uses his mouth in play or to move or control the child. Any dog over 5 months of age should not be using his mouth to play, and is probably not playing, but actually trying to control or dominate humans with his teeth, no matter how gentle your dog appears to be.

2. Watch out if your dog cuts in between you and your child during hugging or engaging in any affectionate interactions. This can indicate jealousy, or rank aggression, or guarding of you, the owner.

3. “Let sleeping dogs lie” is a saying created by someone who really knew dogs. Teach and NEVER allow your children, (or visiting children), to startle, awaken or hug a sleeping dog. Also, dogs by nature are grouchier and testier at night, or in the evenings, and if your dog drops off into a heavy sleep in the evenings, put him away in another private room, or encourage him into a crate, so that you can prevent the possibility of a child startling or waking the dog.

4. Watch for any growling, whether in play or not. Dogs never growl for any other reason except to warn us of biting. So often owners have commented that their dog growled all the time, and were shocked when it finally bit someone, having believed that the growling meant the dog would never bite. Growling is never a vocalization a dog makes just to “talk”, although some breeders of certain breeds have mythology that their breed “talks”, commonly Rottweilers. Dogs don’t “talk” by growling – they growl to let us know that they need help, as they are warning us they would like to bite.

 5. Watch for combinations of events: i.e. your dog may be fine if approached by your child while chewing on a rawhide, and separately, your dog may be fine when approached and hugged while resting on your couch, but your dog may growl or even bite when approached by your child AND hugged WHILE he lies on the couch chewing a bone. I.e. your dog may be fine being hugged by your child in general, and your dog may be fine when held by the collar and restrained from chasing the family or cat or bolting out the front door, but your dog may growl, snap or bite when hugged WHILE being restrained or keyed up or frustrated.

 

Courtesy of
Rondout Valley Kennels, Inc.
suesternberg.com 

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Jacque Lynn Schultz, Director, ASPCA Special Projects

How To Select Your New Best Friend

Best friends are good listeners and always happy to see you. They are always there to lend a shoulder to cry on. Whether jogging partners or worthy sporting opponents, they spring to your defense whenever needed. Best friends are loyal, steadfast and true. And they always know how to make you laugh! While it may take years to find a new human best friend, your new canine best friend awaits you at the local shelter.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and (YOUR SHELTER) invite you to come to the shelter and meet your new best friend.

Here are some considerations when selecting your new best friend:

Match your personalities:

• If you’re gregarious and like to talk to strangers, a unique-looking mixed breed or rare purebred will bring you lots of attention and questions.
• If you are reserved and like to keep to yourself, an all-black or black and tan shepherd mix will help you blend in. Many of the guardian breeds such as Rottweilers and German Shepherds are most comfortable as “one-person” dogs.
• If your home is filled with children, roommates, or visitors, consider selecting a dog that has never met a human he didn’t like. Retrievers, setters, spaniels and their mixed brethren are generally very friendly and unflappable.

Match your energy levels:

• Are you athletic and love the outdoors in any season? You’d be a great match for an active dog with a medium thick coat like a retriever mix.
• If winter sports are your forte and you love to go cross country skiing or hiking through the snow, a husky mix is ideal.
• Are you a fair weather stroller? A retired racing greyhound is a marvelous walking companion.

And remember, beauty may be in the eye of the beholder but it takes work to look that good!

• Are you drawn to curly or silky-locked breeds? Dogs with lots of coat will need lots of coat care. This could include daily brushing and trips to the groomer every 4-6 weeks.
• Do the teddy bear looks of the double-coated northern breeds (Chows, Akitas, Elkhounds, sled dogs and their mixes) appeal to you? Just be prepared for extra grooming during shedding season, extra exercise on cool days and extra air conditioning during the dog days of summer.
• If strength, playfulness, and a wash and wear coat appeal to you, how about a pit bull?

Regardless of which dog you choose, all great friendships blossom when proper care and consideration are taken. Your shelter is not only happy to assist you in match-making, they will provide you with the materials to make it work!

ASPCA
424 East 92nd St.
New York, NY 10128-6804
(212) 876-7700
www.aspca.org

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by Jacque Lynn Schultz, C.P.D.T., Companion Animal Programs Adviser. National Outreach originally posted at PetFinder.com

“Select” is defined in the dictionary by such phrases as “a preferred choice” or “carefully chosen”. Selecting the family dog should be a well-researched and carefully soul-searched activity. Are you and your family willing to make a 10 – 15 year commitment to this sentient being in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer, for as long as all shall live? Let’s pose some of the questions family members should discuss before obtaining a dog.

How Old Are the Members of My Family?

If the youngsters in your household are under seven years old, they are usually not developmentally suited for puppies 5 months old and under or toy-sized (under 15 pounds) dogs of any age. Puppies have ultra sharp “milk teeth” and toenails and often teethe on and scratch children, resulting in unintentional injury to the child. The puppy becomes something to be feared rather than loved.

Toy dogs are fine-boned, touch-sensitive creatures that do not weather rough or clumsy handling well. They break relatively easily and are quicker to bite than their larger boned, mellower relatives.

Unless your children are unusually sensitive, low-key, respectful individuals, a medium-to-large sized dog over 5 months old is usually the safer choice. Regardless of size, all interactions between small children and dogs should be monitored by a responsible adult. When there is no one to watch over them, they should be separated.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, are there frail elderly or physically challenged individuals in the household? If so, strong vigorous adolescent dogs are not a wise idea. No aging hips or wrists are safe from these yahoos. People who were one-breed fans throughout their lives may one day find that their favorite breed demands more than they can physically handle. The new dog must fit the current physical capabilities of his keepers with an eye toward what the next 10-15 years will bring.

Who Will Be the Dog’s Primary Caretaker?

A decade or so back, this was an easy question to answer– Mom. She stayed home and cooked, cleaned and raised the family dog. Most families these days do not have that option. All adults have to go to work and the kids head off to school. This leaves the family dog to be sandwiched in between lessons and sports and household chores and so on. One parent should be designated Primary Caretaker to make sure the dog does not get lost in the shuffle.
Some parents bow to the pressure their children put on them to get a dog. The kids promise with tears in their eyes that they will religiously take care of this soon-to-be best friend. The truth of the matter is, during the 10 – 15 year lifespan of the average dog, your children will be growing in and out of various life stages and the family dog’s importance in their lives will wax and wain like the Moon. You cannot saddle a child with total responsibility for the family dog and threaten to get rid of it if the child is not providing that care. It is not fair to child or dog.

Choosing the family dog should include input from all family members with the cooler-headed, more experienced family members’ opinions carrying a bit more weight. The family dog should not be a gift from one family member to all the others. The selection experience is one the entire family can share. Doing some research and polling each family member about what is important to them in a dog will help pin down what you will be looking for. Books like Daniel Tortora’s THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU or The ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs can be tremendously helpful and can warn you away from unsuitable choices for your family’s circumstances.

How Much Can I Spend?

The price to obtain a dog runs the gamut from free-to-a-good-home to several thousand dollars. It does not always hold true that you get what you pay for. The price you pay in a pet shop is usually 2 to 3 times higher than what you pay a reputable breeder for a puppy of similar (or usually better) quality.

Too many folks spend all their available cash on a pet shop purchase and then have no money left for initial veterinary care, a training crate or obedience classes–all necessary expenses. Remember, the purchase price of a dog is a very small part of what the dog will actually cost. Save money for food (especially if it is a large or giant breed), grooming (fancy coated breeds such as Poodles, Cockers, and Shih Tzus need to be clipped every 4 to 6 weeks), chew toys (the vigorous chewers like a Bull Terrier or Mastiff can work their way through a $8.00 rawhide bone in a single sitting), outerwear (short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Whippets must have sweaters and coats in the winter or in lavishly air conditioned interiors), and miscellaneous supplies (bowls, beds, brushes, shampoos, flea products, odor neutralizers for accidents, baby gates, leashes, collars, heartworm preventative etc.).

And then, there is the veterinary emergency! Very few dogs live their entire lives without at least one accident. Your puppy eats a battery or pair of pantihose, your fine-boned toy breaks a leg, your big boy has bad hips, your dog gets hit by a car or beaten/bitten by the neighborhood bully. These surprises can cost $500 or more. Unlike our children, most of our dogs are not covered by health insurance.

But “How much can I spend?” is not only a question of money. How much time and energy can you spend on a new dog? Various breeds and ages of dog make different demands on our precious spare time. In general, the Sporting, Hounds, Herding, and Terrier breeds will demand more time in training and daily exercise than will the Guardian or Companion breeds. A puppy or adolescent will need more exercise, training, and supervision than will an adult dog. And the first year with any new dog regardless of age or breed type will put more demands on the owner than any other time, for this is when you are setting up house rules and routines which will last for the lifetime of your dog.

America has become a nation of disposable pet owners. Doesn’t your family dog deserve better? Choose wisely, for when the bond breaks, everybody concerned suffers. Make selecting your new family dog a life-affirming act.

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