ASK DR. SCHELLING
DEAR DR. SCHELLING,
I've had my lovable Mutt, Lucky, for a little over six months and we're about to take our first real road trip. So far, he's only gone in the car to the dog park (loves it) and the vet (not so much). We're going to my parents for the holidays (and I think they're more excited about meeting their grand-dog than they are about seeing me, but that's ok). The trip will last two days, with an overnight stay at a motel. How can I make this adventure more fun, or at least not too stressful for my popular pooch?
Also—next year, due to a job transfer, Lucky and I will be on the other coast and most likely will have to fly to see the parents. I wouldn't mind some advance tips for that either.
- Jake(and Lucky)
With some planning, attentiveness, and a positive attitude, Lucky's likely to have good time on the road with his favorite human. Start with a pre-road trip vet check. Bring along necessities such as medications, food, water, IDs, and favorite toys. Make sure Lucky gets ample potty breaks and walking time along the way. There are many more considerations, and they're explained in this new article: TRAVELING WITH YOUR DOG, which has guidance for car and plane trips with your dog and for leaving your dog back home when that's the best travel option. In fact, you may want to bring a copy of the article on your trip, as a reminder check-list.
It certainly sounds like Lucky will have lots of love and affection the whole time, not only from you but from his extended human family. The two of you may have some fun stories about your first road trip that you'll share for years.
Click here to read full article
… … … …
Holiday Bonus Article
Ten Ways to Spoil Your DogCheck out our top ten ways to spoil your dog during the holiday season or anytime of the year:
TEN WAYS TO SPOIL YOUR DOG
… … … …
Dear Max,
To save some extra money this holiday, I wanted to make my own Christmas cards and have my dog Walter on the front of the card. Do you have any tips on how to get a good photo of Walter?
–Jenny
… … … …
Dear Jenny,
Personally, I like posing for photos because I enjoy the extra attention. This article on HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR DOG
is full of tips and tricks whether you're looking for ideas on how to coax Walter into a pose (I recommend lots of treats) or the right setting to capture Walter's handsome good looks.
Click here to read full article
Max
Max's Mini-Reviews
RUFF-N-TUFF REINDEER: This reindeer's nose may not light up but he sure does have a squeak! This plush reindeer puts up with all the chomping I can dish out and keeps me company while I'm waiting for Santa Paws to bring me those holiday treats I asked for this year.
CRUNCHKINS EDIBLE GREETING CARD: While the humans display their holiday cards I'm busy eating mine. But I'm not chewing on paper, this holiday card is made of flattened out rawhide with a non-toxic print on top. Any card that is also a yummy treat is the kind of card I want to receive!
CRINKLE CANE: This "candy cane" is for dogs only. It may not be the sweet treat the humans like but it sure is fun! It's soft with a crunch so I can chew away the day and cuddle up with it at night.
Let us know at: comments@doghealthnewsletter.com
Dogs have two times as many muscles to move their ears as people.
"Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet."
–Colette
Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian.
If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information in the Dog Health Newsletter and at Doghealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site. Terms of Use