The little hottie this month is Sugar, a Silky Terrier. She is an absolute love and boy can she go on those walks! She has the cutest little tongue tip that shows – personality plus! Ask D how sweet is Sugar; call her at 480-600-2828.
Most everyone knows that their dogs must walk; it is in their DNA. But most people do not think about engaging their best friend in mental stimulation. What kind of life is it to just hang around the house all the time – get up, go for a walk, eat, lie around, eat, go for walk, bedtime – routine is boredom. Play with the same old toys; chew the same old bone, for how many years? Dogs become bored, depressed, lethargic, and sometimes behavioral issues begin to show up.
Your kids need some excitement in their lives as do you! Change things up, challenge them, involve them, excite them, interact with them, stretch their learning curve, strengthen your bond – they get to be with you and you are talking to them – this is love!
There are toys they can roll, tip, open, push or chew to get a treat out of. You could step that up a notch by hiding some kibble or treats around the house and have them play ‘hide and seek’ making it more difficult each time. Learn to dance together. There are many books available; check the library, I have one that has 100 tricks to teach them! If you have a high energy kid or family then do agility, swim, hike, disc dog, dock jumping or paddleboard. You will find information on the internet and some are listed below. I can’t wait to hear how happy and engaged you and your kids are!
Learning Games by British trainer Kay Laurence is chock full of ideas for how to keep your dogs mentally and physically stimulated while improving their behavior.
Doggie play dates, socialization outings, nose work and more at http://www.dogster.com/dog-training/engage-dog-indoors
How to use a treadmill, Hide and Seek, Doga, and more at http://www.cesarsway.com/tips/thebasics/indoor-activities
Work on a new trick, play interactive games, run errands, give your dog a job, introduce your dog to new faces, give your dog new toys and rotate the old ones at http://www.cesarsway.com/training/dogtraining/6-Great-Ways-to-Challenge-Your-Dogs-Mind
Teach them to help you clean up, put away their toys! Create an obstacle course, under, over and through and more at http://www.mnn.com/family/pets/stories/7-rainy-day-games-to-play-with-your-dog
Rover’s Rest Stop wishes to thank you for loving all the wonderful kids you have adopted. Please watch our calendar at www.RoversRestStop.com for the upcoming Sun Lakes events! Remember too that we are here to help you if you need to place your best friend or have a question about training or need referrals.