By Dawn McCarthy of Dawnscorner.com
Can you believe it, with all this crazy weather the winter has brought!? March is finally here and the start to “Spring”. I personally love springtime as the weather is still not as hot as the summer, and the perfect temperature to be out at the park, go on walks and hikes, while not having to be all bundled up. It’s important to me to walk my dog (Josie) twice a day as she is a “Premium Blend” (my preferred moniker over “Mutt”) with a few mixes of Terrier, English Cocker, including some Jack Russell and Catahoula. How do I know all of this? Yes .. I bought the DNA testing kit for dogs. That’s what you do when you rescue right!? I must disclose, the test also said my dog has Newfoundland in her. But she is all of but 16 pounds, the owner of a Newfoundland at a dog park and I got a real good laugh when she asked me what kind of dog I had, and I said she is a “Newfie”, too. Not too sure how precise this test is, but the many other breeds that came up fit her to a tee!
Exercise is not only good for us, but our fur kids. As long as my dog gets out once or twice a day for some run time, a hike, walk or to socialize at the park, life is good. As I said last month, she has really helped me find some balance and getting out and taking that break away from my desk. She is also just a little under 2 ½ years old and still has lots of energy. I love having a whole new set of friends as well from taking her out and about. With the many connections I have, surprisingly, I even found my web designer who takes care of my website while out walking with my dog. I am telling you, Josie has opened many new doors for me which I never would have imagined. Just like moms meet new moms at school and
on play dates…this happens with our dogs too!
I have also learned dogs, likes kids, have their favorite friends, good and bad days, and daily exercise is important to their health. I am lucky to live by hiking trails, parks and some open green spaces. My dog is obsessed with the ball, even over food and nothing makes her happier than just getting out to play fetch. I am also fortunate that I have close family who watches Josie and takes her on hikes while I travel with "Ms. Bingley", their friendly Labrador (also known as Josie's Mom). I will talk about that canine relationship later.
This month, treat yourself, your kids and the fur ones in the family to some kind of outdoor activity. And lastly, “Spring cleaning” is a time-honored tradition in many households, but be sure to keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way! Almost all cleaning products, even all natural ones, contain chemicals that may be harmful to pets.
Here are some products from the ASPCA you should be careful about using..
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