Should I vote for Vick for MVP?

Okay, well the short answer to that question is NO.  As a football fan, I only have eyes for Tom Brady.  Long hair and all.  C'mon people. That man is just stunning on and off the field...and you know it.

With all the recent chatter about the MVP award down to Michael Vick or Tom Brady.  Vick's past has resurfaced on again on Facebook, FOXNews, and our dearest Mr. President has even had a thing or two to say.  When hearing all the recent chatter...it reminded me how quickly us Americans forgive and forget.  But, to some what Michael Vick did is unforgivable and still very raw.  How do you feel?

Tucker Carlson said he thinks Michael Vick should be "executed" for what he's done (source: FOXNews - google it people).  Personally, that seems a bit extreme.  Do you think Vick did his time?  The man did spend a long, lonely 21-months in the slammer.  Besides, Mr. President thinks it is just wonderful that the Eagles were willing to give him a second chance.  Does he even deserve a second chance?

As a friend recently proclaimed on her facebook page...what about all the people that rescued the abused dogs and gave them a second chance.  Mr. President, is that worthy of a phone call?

Michael Vick now volunteers with the Human Society and works with children educating them on the ills of dogfighting.  Before you say, "yeah right" - read this article.

I write this today because, as this issue has resurfaced, I have more questions than I do answers.  What do you think?

There are three things I know for certain:

• The President of the United States should start worrying about the United States and not Michael Vick's second chance
• Someday, Michael Vick will go in front of the highest court in the land and, for his sake, I hope he is truly sorry for his sins
• And, Tom Brady will be MVP

Is Road Salt Naughty or Nice?

In many places around the country the snow has started to fall, unless you are lucky enough to live in one of those 70 degrees and sunny cities. And, this time of year, it’s easy to stay inside and not take your dog for the ever-so-needed daily walk (or two).   Dogs get stir crazy like we do!

With the snowfall and road salt, your daily walks could now be a hazard to your pets health. Two words: Road Salt. While the salt helps melt the ice and prevent walkers or drivers from accidents, it isn’t nice to your pet’s paws.

In fact, the salt can be very painful. I did some research on some preventative measures:

Take your dog for walks…off the beaten path:
• Find nearby parks, fields, or even wooded walking paths to walk your dogs

• Look for other un-salted terrain

If you have to walk in salted areas, try these tips:
• Rinse and Repeat. After every walk, be sure to wipe your pet’s feet with warm water. This will help wash off any of the salt. Honestly, this is a good practice anyway as pets can bring in all sorts of goodies, pollen, and allergens on their feet.

• Frequent Pedicures. Keep your dogs feet clean. Regularly trim their nails and groom the stray hairs. It’ll help prevent icy, salty crumbs from getting caught. PetSmart and other local groomers offer a nail trim service. It’s a good habit to get into.

• MONEY SAVING TIP: trim your dogs nails and paw fur

• Paw Wax.  Try Paw Wax, it’s what the Mushers use! It helps dogs grip slippery surfaces and prevents cuts from sharp ice and salt.

• WARNING! Be sure to really clean their paws afterwards. Little pieces of wax can get stuck in carpeting and even stain.

• Surrender to booties like Paw Tectors, only if you have to.  Personally, I’m not a fan of the bootie. And, Copley refuses to wear them. Last time I attempted to get her to lace up, she marched around like a little soldier – kick, kick, kick. It was an adorable sight!

How to treat cuts:
• Rinse with warm water and put a little Bacitracin on the cuts.

• WARNING! Watch out for lickers. If your pet does have cut feet and is licking them. You can wrap with a piece of gauze and a little medical wrap. We use a stylin’ pink color wrap.
• Of course, always consult a vet if your dog has cut, swollen, or torn pads.

Share Here.  What are you favorite off-the-beaten path places to walk your dog?

Who has seperation anxiety? You or her?

Earlier today, Copley's Auntie Andrea texted me asking if she could take Copley overnight and then to play at my mom's tomorrow.  As crazy as it sounds, I actually had to think about it because I knew that I'd miss her tonight.  I just love cuddling with my bug after a long day at work. 

Andrea and Travis came over for dinner and Copley was thrilled to see them.  And, she very willingly jumped in the car.  Off they went.   

So, I started thinking.  Who has a harder time with separation anxiety....me or Copley?

Honestly, Copley doesn't have separation anxiety at all.  I made sure she was used to new situations, people, and being away from me at a very young age.  It doesn't matter if you have a puppy or an adult, it is important to make sure they have confidence (with out you).  Here are some things to try:

Pass the Pooch:
Have you ever asked someone to hold your dog's leash while you (fill in the blank) tied your shoe, got something out of the car, ran into a store, and so on?  Does your dog pull away from them and towards you?  If so, that's not good.

Start playing pass the pooch.  Every time you are out with your dog ask a friend to hold their leash.  Make sure your friend has treats.  Ideally, your friend could put them in a sit stay.  But at a minimum, have them give them treats and make it fun and special.  Getting your dog comfortable won't happen overnight.  Keeping working at it.

If you have a new puppy: get as many people as possible to hold him/her.  Literally, pass the puppy.  This will get your pup used to being handled by and with other people.

Walk Out Of Sight:
This skill is one of the elements of passing your CGC (Canine Good Citizen Test).  Your dog needs to stay with a total stranger for 3-minutes while you are out of sight.  They can't jump, whine, or pull. 

This game is really just taking Pass the Pooch to a new level - you leave.  Start with hiding behind a tree or shed for 30 seconds and work your way up.  When you return to your pet, treat them.  Reinforce that you're coming back.  It'll help them relax.

Send them on an Overnight Stay:
At some point, you are going to take a vacation.  The sooner you get your dog familiar with their overnight care - the better.  Most kennels don't take dogs until they are 6 months old.  But, if you can stand it...I recommend you send your pup away overnight so both of you get used to being away from each other.

If you are lucky like me and have friends or family members who will take care of your pet, send your dog on an overnight stay to get them used to the environment and people.  Also, this is a good test to see if that friend/family member is up to the task of taking care of your pet for a whole week.

Also, be sure to pack their favorites.  Reference my guide to an overnight stay.

Other things you can try:

• Let a friend or neighbor take your dog for a walk
• Drop your dog off at a friends house for a few hours - best if they have a playmate
• Try doggie daycare for a day or two
• Take a training class and ask another student if you can switch dogs for the class
• If you do agility, trying handling a different dog.  Let your dog try a new handler

Beginning with a strong foundation and getting your pet comfortable with new environments will give them confidence with or without you.  Pets that can accomplish the tricks above are less likely to have during-the-day separation anxiety.  But, that's a different topic for another day.

What tips/trick have you tried to make your dog confident?