Taking Your Dog to Non-Dog Events

Dear Readers; perhaps the following question dwells on your mind too;

Jen (that's me, the First Dog), __________ (insert child's name here) is going to _____________(insert event here), can I bring our dog?

Interesting question and apparently one that is on a few minds; since I see plenty of dogs at events where their attendance is inappropriate; and just the past weekend, I brought my two dogs to provincial horse-show, a non-dog event (completely acceptable).

What makes some events inappropriate, and others suitable for your canine companion? Let's discover!

First; my friends; please be aware; that not all people love dogs. I know that's hard to fathom; but it is true; there are cat people, horse people and some people who don't even like animals. In fairness to those that don't like dogs; it is in your best interests to choose your events wisely, keeping in mind the feelings of those who might prefer a dog-free event.

Now you may ask, why can't my dog come to an event? What would be the criteria for dog vs. non-dog. Please check the following list and file away for future dog excursions.

1. Insurance reasons -- for an event to go forward, insurance is generally required; mention the word dog; insurance goes up (due to the potential of lawsuits from dog bites, scratches and being bumped, jumped on, etc.)
2. Hygiene reasons -- if food is the main focus of the event; if food is being served; you can probably bet your dog is not welcome -- rightly or wrongly
3. Livestock or other animal shows -- depends on the livestock, depends on the property (cat and bunny shows are probably not good choices)
4. Safety reasons -- if your dog is going to have to remain in the vehicle and it is 90' in the shade; not a good idea; if there are small children in crowds; not a good idea; fireworks; not a good idea

I want to bring my dog . . . how do I know if its permitted or not?

1. Check the website. Most savvy fairs, festivals and events have websites and those that do not allow dogs; will prominently mention the permissions or not.  For an example; Ball's Falls; check their Thanksgiving Festival link; read the text; easy to spot pets or not!
2. Ask around. You may have friends (real ones or Facebook ones) that have attended; they will probably have noticed dogs or no-dogs.
3. Phone or email the co-ordinator, most events will have contact information at the very least; you can check for sure.
4. Go to the event; with the VERY REAL POSSIBILITY THAT YOU WILL BE TURNING AROUND AND GOING HOME WITH YOUR DOG. DO NOT LEAVE THE DOG IN THE CAR!!!!! Not recommended for events that are 1+ hours away; unless you like random drives.

So, the event allows dogs and I like my dog = I'm bringing my dog to the event. Whoa, whoa, whoa; back up the bus. Some things you want to make sure of; before you set off on your dog adventure.

1. Your dog is O-BED-IENT. Seriously! People and other animals attending the event aren't going to want to be whined at, sniffed at, barked at, growled at, drooled on, lunged towards or have to move out of your dog's way; because it can't sit up straight and stop lying in the aisles.
2. Your dog actually enjoys the event you are attending. Some dogs are homebodies; they don't really want to be in a crowd of people, or around large animals that might bite them, kick them; or what have you, or they can't handle other dogs outside their own pack.
3. You are prepared to leave whenever the dog feels like it's had enough, no matter how much whining the humans do about staying "just a little bit longer". This is especially important for puppies, immature dogs and those that are being trained to accept certain situations. One of the reasons I prefer to take either children or dogs; very rarely both.
4. Feed the dog; nothing like being at an event where people are eating; and someone didn't feed you breakfast; even if your dog doesn't eat breakfast, give them something before you go.
5. Potty the dog; lots. Make sure they are empty before they arrive at the event; there may not be many suitable places to go when you get there. Even if you THINK there will be potty areas; since you have been to the property before; they may now be covered by tents and vendors.
6. Secure collar and leash; absolute must!
7. Stay away from other animals. That 4-H cow handler doesn't care that your dog "just wants to lick the cow's nose", their cow doesn't want to have a relationship with your dog.
8. Stay away from children. Even if your dog has children of its own; there is a distinct difference between their child and roving packs of children that step on toes, pull ears and try to "kiss the doggy's nose". Want a lawsuit; just let your dog scratch, nip or bite a child at an event.  If you reside in Ontario; you might want to take a gander at this; Whitby Woman spends $15000 fighting dog's death penalty 

ALL OF THE ABOVE APPLIES WHETHER YOUR DOG IS A PUPPY OR A SENIOR!