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!

What does your dog do all day?

Well; we are nearly done September.

The kids are back to school, begrudgingly, but they have established their routine. You are back at work, most of your vacation days used up.

So -- what's the dog doing? While you guys are gone for approximately 8 hours. You remember, that puppy you got in May, the pup that is now about 6 mos. old; has developed a beautiful summer routine, where someone was home to play with him all day, let him in and out as he needed to potty, played chase games and had long walks during those beautiful summer days; those long summer days; where the sun didn't set until 9:00-ish.

What's he doing now?

Ideally he's crated during the hours you are not home, with someone coming in to let him out for a 1/2 hour to hour-long walk at lunch time; to break up his day.

What's that you say? Can't. Can't what -- crate him?
I would; way less stress if you come home to a house that isn't riddled with urine, feces, chewed doors, destroyed gadgets and garbage strewn about. Can't -- give him a walk during the day? Eeeeks; perhaps it's time to contact the professionals.

It has been well established by many experts in the dog training and behaviour management field; that daily exercise is necessary to keep your canine companion happy.
It only makes sense; if you consider that cave dogs (whence your lovely puppy came) would have spent the entire day wandering around with their humans; playing with the kids; and simply flopping down to sleep when tired.

To keep your puppy happy, your older dog from being bored, and your family sane; if you don't have the time available to satisfy these exercise requirements; there are a number of different businesses available that can help you out.

Your options include

•  doggy daycare
•  dog/pet sitting
• dog walking services

Doggy daycare; can either be full service day/night boarding kennel who offers drop-off privileges for daily care; or can be simply a daycare area; where dogs are dropped off before you work and picked up on your way home, they will often serve food if your dog requires a midday meal, administer medications if your dog requires a specific time interval for a product, has quiet zones for dogs that just want to chill, lots of toys, and other doggy companions.
Best suited for: dogs that like other dogs, dogs that are up-to-date on their vaccinations, spayed/neutered dogs, dogs that are go-go-go and want constant amusement, owners that want to check up on their pets (there are often webcams available for log-in viewing)

For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here  Dog Daycare

Dog/Pet Sitting; these companies (preferably bonded/insured) will come to your house in your absence and take your pet out for a walk; or in the backyard to play; or just spend some time (usually in 1/2 hour increments) hanging out with them, so Fluffy doesn't feel all alone for 8 hours; they also will feed/water as requested and many will administer medications if requested
Best suited for: dogs that can't attend daycare (are not up-to-date on medications, not spayed/neutered, not dog friendly), dogs that will let the sitter in; dogs that don't want a whole day of stimulation; but would like something to do during your absence. Note: these companies are also useful if you ever have an extended absence from the house (vacation/business trip) and Grandma will take the kids; but not the dog, the sitter (who is used to your dog) will come, bring your mail/newspapers in, water plants, turn lights on/off, care for and hang with the dog; etc.

For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here Dog/Pet Sitting

Dog Walkers; these companies will come by the house, grab dog/collar/leash and away they go; usually walks in 1/2 hour increments. You can generally request single dog walks/or walks with a dog pack. They may check your dog's water and give him a treat as well when they come back.
Best suited for: dogs that can't attend daycare (are not up-to-date on medications, not spayed/neutered, not dog friendly), dogs that will let the dog-walker in; dogs that don't want a whole day of stimulation; but would like something to do during your absence. Note: these companies are also useful if you need someone to fill in on walkie-duties during other times, or if you lack the physical ability to walk your dog longer distances; but can care for him otherwise

For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here Dog Walkers

Many thanks to Christine Smatana of K9 Friends Dog Walking Service for providing the information for this blog post. She was very passionate about her love for dogs and the job she does as a dog-walker/pet sitter. If you have further questions; do not hesitate to contact her at Tel: 905.353.8149 or Email: info@k9friendsdogwalkingservice.ca

HEAT WAVE!!!!

Well for all of us who were complaining about the rain; nanner, nanner!

IT IS HOT!

Here is a link to the Weather Network; please check the weather and plan appropriately!

HOT DAYS + DOGS IN CARS = DEAD DOGS

Please, please, check out our links to Dog Boarding and Doggy Daycare Facilities; and if you are visiting the Niagara Region and day-tripping -- put your pet somewhere safe.
Everyone thinks; I'll only be in for a minute, Fluffy will be fine for a minute. What happens if;

• one of the kids has to go to the bathroom . . . really bad; and it took you 5 minutes to actually get to the facilities; never mind how long they are on the pot.
• you end up in a horrendous line and 3 out of 7 people need PRICE CHECKS!
• the product you really, really need is in the back; and you have to hunt down a stock clerk and they have to hunt down the product
• your best friend that moved away spots you in the store and just has to have a 10-15-20 minute chat with you

So many things come up to eat up our time; we need to keep in mind that a dog in a hot car; simply doesn't have time.

Please, please be careful out there; there are always options to taking your pet with you. If you are travelling with your pets and you must stop somewhere to use the facilities; alternate; have one person stay with the vehicle (either a/c running or window/doors open) or wait for a facility that allows pets, or for eating; use the drive-through. 

Do you know the quality of the water your dog is swimming in? Here is a link to the beaches that are closed/not safe for swimming in the Niagara Region; mainly due to e coli.; you may want to restrict your pet's drinking of the water.

http://www.niagararegion.ca/living/water/beaches/default.aspx

Would you walk here or not?

Was in Wainfleet the other day; enjoying the beautiful weather (in between storms) and happened upon the Landfill Naturalization site that Wainfleet has begun. Very pretty, very pleasant; bird calls, frogs, etc.

However it is an old landfill site (not so old -- closed 2 years ago?) So would you walk your dogs here or not?

That my friends, is the question.

Attached are photos of the site; very pretty as I said; but is it worth it to walk our canine companions; who could potentially absorb so much run-off through their feet/skin, etc.

At the side please find a poll; please vote; I am curious!



So what say you; fellow dog walkers, nay or yeah.

Where to Walk Your Dog in Niagara

I'm hoping our loyal readers can elaborate; I'm most familiar with these areas; since I live in Port Colborne and these are the places where many pleasurable walks have occurred!

If you know of an address where you can take your dog and he can have a bit of a run (within reason) shoot me the approximate address and I'll see if I can post it up.

REMEMBER -- all cities in the region have leash laws; and the First Dog would never suggest you disobey the leash laws; in fact linked along the sides are the Off-Leash Park areas that are available; however we all know of dogs that would prefer to have long walks, off-lead and in many cases; you won't cause yourself or anyone else any harm.

Please keep in mind; the following suggestions;

1. Garbage in, garbage out -- we all love our Timmie's; however Mother Nature has no interest in rolling the rim; so if you bring it in; bring it out. Same goes for cigarettes, food wrappers, glass bottles, etc.
2. It is VERY against the law for your dog to harass wild life; but the wild life has no such restrictions -- if your dog doesn't know the life or death recall; please keep them long-lined. There is a plethora of coyote in the Niagara Region + raccoons, skunks, mink, muskrat and other fauna; that might object to your dog harassing them. A single coyote will lead a dog to the coyote pack; a scenario that few dogs are going to make it out of alive or in one piece. Coyote have also become very bold; and will take a smaller unleashed dog unawares; often the owner too. Dusk and dawn are typical times for coyote to be out; but it is not unheard of for them to be roaming around at other times. Be alert, be aware; again; keep your dog under control.
3. If you like to walk your dog and not deal with other people; choose areas that few people frequent; or choose times that few people are out. Bright sunny Saturday and Sunday afternoons; will find even the quietest spots; rife with nature "lovers". My dogs don't mind a run in the rain; and we are guaranteed to encounter few; if any other people and dogs.
4. If your dog doesn't like other dogs; be alert and be prepared to leash up; to get past another dog and its owner.

Here are some Port Colborne/Wainfleet options; and of course; feel free to pass on any information on other areas to walk your dog.

Barrick Road -- if you head East on Barrick Road; to where it ends at Robin Hood Quarry; you will find plenty of areas to walk your dog. You can hook up with the Welland Canals bike and recreational trail that takes you to Dain City; and then on to Welland; but there are plenty of walking/running/sniffing opportunities throughout the Quarry. You will recognize the recreational trail; it is paved. Please leash your dog while on the trail; you will find many bicyclists using the route. There is an in-use railway line owned by Trillium Railway Co., so if you are letting your dog exit the vehicle; keep them away from the rail-line. I have not been able to discover who owns Robin Hood Quarry lands; perhaps it's the City of Port Colborne; perhaps a private company. I haven't been kicked off yet and I've been going there for about 20 years. Please; keep it clean.


View Larger Map

Just down the road from Barrick Road is Mud Lake. Mud Lake; located just north of the Off-Leash Dog Park, in Port Colborne.
Mud Lake is a Niagara Peninsula Conservation area; dedicated to the preservation of vegetation and wildlife. Encompassing over 60 hectares of wetland and 54 hectare of field and woodland, Mud Lake offers nature trails, limited hunting, superb bird watching and fishing. Noted as an important resting and feeding stop for migratory birds, Mud Lake claims numerous rare bird sightings and provides a unique setting for both novice and expert bird watchers. The conservation land is on-leash only. Try to stay to the established paths; they are graded to prevent deep erosion. There is a plethora of wildlife on the conservation property. Check your dog carefully after your walk, ticks are in abundance.

Heading out to Wainfleet, another popular conservation area is the Quarry Road conservation area. The Wainfleet Wetlands is located off of Quarry Rd. in the community of Wainfleet, Ontario. The 450 acre site was purchased by the Niagara Conservation Area Authority in 1976 to preserve the unique rock formations and coral fossils found here. The area was quarried for aggregate in the early part of the twentieth century creating the two lakes we see today. These lakes have actually enriched the area, providing a habitat for over 50 varieties of birds, and an oasis for hikers and birdwatchers. A path leads around the western lake allowing visitors a chance to view and touch hundreds of fossils in a natural environment.

Admission and parking are free. Watch for signs off Quarry Road.

View Larger Map

As I find other areas for dog walking; I'll post them here; if you have any areas; please send me a message and I'll look them up. Photographs of your pets on their walk; are always welcome.

More Niagara Dog News

WELLAND HUMANE SOCIETY NEWS

Special From March 17 onwards, dog adoptions $170, includes spay/neuter, micro chip, booster shots, rabies shot, a 2 week trial period & 6 weeks of pet insurance!!!
For more information click here ***

NIAGARA FALLS HUMANE SOCIETY NEWS

Puppy Update
As seen on CHCH TV and in the Niagara Falls Review

As you may have seen on CHCH News March 7, and subsequently in the Niagara Falls Review, NFHS has some puppies available for adoption. There are 18 puppies available including puggles and beagle/shepherds.

The puppies are now available.

Applications are being taken on the puppies. Special applications are available now, ONLY at the shelter. No faxes or email applications will be accepted. Appointments for viewing the puppies can be made by calling the shelter. You must have an appointment to be able to view the puppies out of the kennel.

The adoption fee for the puppies is $400.


Please remember that there are several older dogs, including the moms of the pups, desperately needing homes too.

SECOND ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT APRIL 15
Evening of fun to help the animals

Friday, April 15, 2011

Location: Delphi Banquet Hall (next to Chatters restaurant)

Doors open at 6:00 pm for Silent Auction
Trivia starts at 7:00 pm

$ 20.00 per person includes Trivia, snacks, pizza & door prizes
There will also be a cash bar, 50/50 draw & a silent auction.

Tickets available at The Niagara Falls Humane Society and Niagara Square Adoption Center

For more information please contact Kathleen at 905-328-4407
or the Humane Society at 905-356-4404

For more information click here ***

Niagara Dog News

PURINA WALK FOR GUIDE DOGS

PORT COLBORNE

Organization Name:	Port Colborne Lions Club
City:	Port Colborne
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	Jerry Ursacki
Phone (incl. Area Code):	905-835-2083
E-mail:	gursacki@sympatico.ca
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	11:00 AM
Walk Location:	Port Colborne Lions Community Centre - 49 Chippawa Rd.

ST. CATHARINES

Organization Name:	Merritton Lions Club
City:	St. Catharines
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	Kevin Brown
Phone (incl. Area Code):	905-641-4940
E-mail:	kevin.brownie@gmail.com
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	11:00 AM
Walk Location:	Welland Canal Parkway Lock 3 Museum

RIDGEWAY/FORT ERIE

Organization Name:	Ridgeway, Fort Erie & Black Creek Stevensville Lions Clubs
City:	Ridgeway/Fort Erie
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	Ed Feiertag
Phone (incl. Area Code):	905-894-1113
E-mail:	edwardfeiertag@yahoo.ca
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	1:00 PM
Walk Location:	Crystal Ridge Community Centre

GRIMSBY

Organization Name:	Friends of LFC in Grimsby
City:	Grimsby
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	David Nash
Phone (incl. Area Code):	800-768-3030
E-mail:	dnash@dogguides.com
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	10:00 AM
Walk Location:	Lions Pool-Coronation Park

NIAGARA FALLS

Organization Name:	Niagara Falls, Chippawa and St. Davids Lions Clubs
City:	Niagara Falls
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	Pamela Ballah
Phone (incl. Area Code):	905-687-2500
E-mail:	pamelab25@gmail.com
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	9:00 AM
Walk Location:	Kingsbridge Park - Niagara Parkway

NIAGARA ON THE LAKE

Organization Name:	Stamford Lion & Lioness Clubs
City:	Niagara-on-the-Lake
Province:	Ontario
Contact Name:	Vikki Beswick
Phone (incl. Area Code):	289-241-4217
E-mail:	vbeswick@sympatico.ca
Date of Walk:	May 29, 2011
Time:	10:30 AM
Walk Location:	McFarland House

Click on heading for link to Purina Guide Dogs Site