Wiggle - Day 2,854

On Friday we were up and out early as the weather forecast promised nice weather.  Thankfully, it wasn't wrong and we arrived at the coast with beautiful sunshine:

As much as I hate the thought of Wiggle no longer being with me, I know that with his age and mobility problems, days out are going to be less and less so I wanted to take him to the beach.  And I'm so grateful for our special day out and seeing how happy Wiggle was.

Wiggle stayed on lead, just in case he got caught by a wave:

Sofy was a Very Good Girl and made friends with a Spaniel and Labrador that she met and kept herself busy, going in and out of the water:

Wiggle and Sofy had a fabbie couple of hours, paddling in the water, enjoying the sunshine and Wiggle especially got lots of hugs and extra treats.  

Poor Wiggle was soon tired so we made our way back to the car so he could rest and have a drink and settle down before we headed for home:

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Tips: Dogs Doing the Blue Ridge

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

(c) All Things Dog Blog
Linville Falls is a Short 3-Mile Hike

The All Things Dog Blog crew is fresh off a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway from end to end, just before the rush of visitors arrive for the Autumn colors. If you plan to head there for Fall fun, here are a few things we think you'll want to know:

• Yes, your dog is welcome on the Blue Ridge Parkway, while kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet long. Don't forget the poop bags :)
• Just because the pullover doesn't look exciting, don't skip it. There are some hidden gems on those pathways that lead to the overlooks that are often well worth your time.
• There's no cell signal along 95% of the parkway, so prepare for a welcome chance to get unplugged. Check your email and voicemail before heading into the mountains and charge up your devices as well as your camera. You'll want backups. I ran my phone battery down every day by taking pictures. 
• Very few visitor centers offer food so prepare a picnic for your day trip or a cooler of food if you're camping. Bring plenty of water and food for you and your dog.
• In my humble opinion, the Great Smokey Mountains are mis-named. The "smoke" is actually clouds that hover low and tend to be a driving hazard on some days. At times we were driving only 20 mph due to bad visibility, but this problem is patchy. It won't impede the entire trip. Plan extra time to assure you make it to your destination safely and in time. 
• Remember to carry water and first aid supplies for all participants. You'll find a travel first aid kit for dogs at Kurgo.com, that attaches to your belt. Very handy!
• Finally, save some time to relax and bond with your dog along the way. He'll enjoy the hikes as much as a picnic under a tree. I managed to find a few chances to pull out my yoga mat and relax. What an amazing experience this was; watch for more on this topic.

Happy travels,

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Wiggle - Day 2,840

It's been another quiet week for Wiggle, plenty of sleeping, his hydrotherapy session, some gentle strolls but best of all, he continues to be happy and waggy.

With Crufts this week, it made me think back to when Wiggle went for the first time in 2010 and again in 2014.

We had a great time when we went and there was an opportunity for us to have gone this year but it would have been too much for Wiggle.  Even the walk from the car into the hall would have been more than he could manage but it's ok, we have wonderful memories to think back on.

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Is Bowser Ready for Summer Travel?

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

Buffer

Cushy, Comfortable Wash-n-Zip Pet Bed

It's that time of year again. Summer is here and families are heading out for vacation adventures. Whether you're driving or flying, camping or roughing it at the Ritz, there are still certain things you'll need. Start with an appropriately sized suitcase like this little Yorkie, and then add some other imperatives. Enjoy the video and then read on.

1. Don't forget an adequate supply of your dog's regular food. Switching food suddenly will often cause digestive upset for your pup.
2. Medications that your dog requires should be set aside by your packing area to assure that you don't forget them.
3. Essentials include bowls, bottled water (new areas will have varying bacterium in the water. Choose bottled or filtered for happier tummies), leash, collar and tags, medical records including shots, and a health certificate from your vet stating that Fido is healthy for travel. Many states will require this document for interstate travel. Make sure your dog is micro-chipped also!
4. If your pup prefers a favorite bed, try fitting it into your suitcase. If this doesn't work, you may want to give our friends at Wash-n-Zip a check. These beds travel nicely and wash easily in household or hotel machines.
5. Just in case of a health issue or injury, pack a pet first aid kit that includes everything you can imagine using. Injured dogs can lash out, so include a soft muzzle to keep you and caregivers safe while helping Fido get well. Injuries on vacation are just no fun, but preparation can make a huge difference. This fairly complete kit includes almost everything for about $80, but you'll get a good value and come close with this version for about $27. What's the difference? Quite

   

   courtesy Amazon.com

   honestly, each kit I looked at this time was missing something. Some had a dozen of every item, while others were missing important features like instant ice packs and self-stick bandage. What's more, you'll really need a guidebook if you find yourself with a seriously injured pet. I've been there and it's extremely distressing when you have no idea what to do. Pick up Amy Shojai's pet first aid book and tuck it in your carry on. It's worth the space and the price.
6. Comfort means a lot to your pet, just as it does to you. Select a couple of small comfort items--toys or other favorites--to include in your pet's travel things. These may be especially welcome during travel when stress levels can be at their highest.
7. Speaking of stress, it's good to determine what works best to reduce anxiety from travel in your dog. Is it music, a comfort item, a piece of your clothing, or your presence? Whatever it is, give it to him early and often. Your trip will be more
   
   enjoyable for everyone when the dog is a happy traveler.
8. Remember to make time for bonding with your pet while you're on your adventure. Take a hike with a view, enjoy an interesting historical area, visit a dog park or play hide and seek in your hotel room. Whatever it is that makes you and Fido feel spunky and end up cuddling. Tanner and I always end our #Doga workout with a good romp:

copyright AllThingsDogBlog.com
I Win!

Happy bonding,

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Wiggle - Day 2,833

Poor Wiggle hasn't had the best week.  After having such a lovely day on Sunday he didn't want his breakfast on Monday and had been poorly by the time I got home from work.  He walked away from his dinner and just looked sad.

He didn't want much to eat but did manage a jar of organic baby food for dinner and breakfast the next day and knowing how much he loves his swimming, I took him in the hope it would cheer him up.  Although Wiggle was excited to be there, he just wasn't enjoying himself and only swam a few lengths and then just stood in the water.

On the way home I got Wiggle some tinned dog food and now he has decided that he much prefers that to kibble and so long as he is eating, I will give him whatever he will eat.

Thankfully, over the last few days Wiggle has picked up and is feeling a lot better, back to being cuddly and nudging me for more fuss if I stop.  He's getting plenty of rest and as much love as I can give him.

Needless to say, it's been an emotional week for me, worrying so much about Wiggle and the dreaded thoughts of losing him crossing my mind.  I've gone through the heartbreak of losing a dog plenty of times before, first with Guinness, then Poppy, Bumpy, Dolly and Sir H and as special and loved as each of them were, Wiggle is super special and this week he showed me he's not ready to leave me yet. 

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