Adopting a dog is a big commitment. Always consider your lifestyle when considering adopting a dog. Here are some tips on adopting.

Where to Adopt Your Dog

Once you have decided what kind of dog you would like to have join your family there are several options.

A Local Breeder

If you are considering a specific breed a local breeder can answer questions about personality, health issues and lifestyle. Buying from a breeder is typically more costly, but if you make sure to find a reputable breeder with a good reputation you will know the background and health of your dog. You can even meet his/her parents.

Local Shelters

Shelters can also be a great way to adopt a dog. There are typically a wide variety of dogs. Most shelters are run by people or an organization that have a sincere desire for the health and happiness of the dogs. These dogs want a loving, healthy home to spend their lives in.

Rescue Organizations

Similar to shelters rescue organizations are in the business of Dog welfare. Typically rescue centers have a smaller choice that a shelter but also care for dogs through a network of dog foster parents. These families care for dogs until a permanent home can be found. You can request visitation to the network to find you family addition.

So it’s summer time and your ready to go to the beach, the lake, or your favorite pool. Wouldn’t it be cool to take your favorite buddy with you? Before taking the plunge with you dog, there are a few precautions you should be aware of.

Safety Precautions When Teaching Your Dog How To Swim

Know that some dogs will take to water better than other dogs. Also understand that not all dogs can learn to swim. Know your dogs limitations.

Dogie Life Jackets?

Some breeds of dogs will sink like a rock to the bottom if they are not wearing a dog life jacket. Yes, they do make life jackets for dogs. If you believe your dog will be required to wear a life jacket make sure it fits properly and keeps your dogs head above water.

Focus On The Training And Avoid Distractions

Make sure your teaching your dog in a quite area of the poll, lake or beach.

Always Have Your Dog on a Leash

While your training your dog to swim it is always a good idea to keep him on a leash. Not only can you keep him within a close distance, but your can more easily pull him out of the water if an unfavorable situation occurs.

Do Not Leave Your Dog Alone

Do not leave your dog unattended in the water. Never.

Introduce Your Dog To The Water Gradually

Slowly introduce your dog to the water. Never, I repeat never throw your dog in the water. This will create a negative experience for your dog. The goal is to have your dog swimming with all legs. Although swimming should become natural for most dogs practicing in shallow water before moving on to deeper water is a good rule.

Reward Your Dog After A Good Swim

After your dog has had his swimming experience with the water, praise him and reward him. Treats are always a good thing. You want your dog to experience his interaction with the water as a good thing, something fun and to be done without fear. If your swim was at the beach or lake make sure to thoroughly clean your dog to avoid any health issues.

How To Travel safely with your Dog by Car.

When you are planning a family trip always keep in mind the safety of your Dog.

By car

Do you know the best place for your dog in your car?

Dogs should not be free to roam in the car

The safest way for your dog to travel in the car is in a travel container that has been anchored to the vehicle using a seat belt. Dog restraints or seat belts are useful for preventing your dog from roaming around the car and being a distraction to the driver. This should keep your dog safe, but not necessarily immune from injuries from a crash.

these carriers in the car so that they don’t bounce around and hurt your cat. Do this by securing a seat belt around the front of the carrier.

Front Seats are for Humans

Keep your pet in the back seat of the car. If an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate), it might injure your pet.

Keep those heads inside!

Dogs should always be kept safely inside the car. Dogs who are allowed to stick their heads out the window can be injured by particles of debris or made sick by having cold air forced into their lungs.

Take Frequent Breaks and Stops For Your Dog

Stop frequently to allow your Dog to exercise and relieve themselves.

Don’t ever leave your pet in a car especially on a hot day.

A quick stop may seem like no time to you but on a hot day for your Dog it can be life threatening. The temperature in your car when the windows are shut can rise quickly.

Amazing!! Slow motion of Dog shaking after a bath