Winter Garden Magazine December 2018 | Page 21

water), treats, and of course poop bags! Keep in mind With small children, always get down low so that you can the weather as well – if it’s going to be extremely cold or closely monitor and manage the interaction that your hot, your pup may fare better at home. dog has with a child. Don’t be afraid to interfere if a child is behaving inappropriately with your dog or not respecting boundaries. ALWAYS pick up your dog’s poop! Nothing ruins a person’s good mood like stepping in doggie doo-doo! Did you know that sometimes colored dog leashes or colored ribbons tied to a dog’s leash or collar have very important messages? Here’s what you need to know: Red - this means that the dog needs his or her space and you or your dog should NOT approach. Orange - this means the dog likes people but not dogs. Green - this means the dog likes meeting new friends - dog or human. Still ask for permission to approach though. White - this means the dog is deaf and/or blind - take special precautions here and never approach a deaf/blind dog suddenly. Yellow - this could have two meanings. It could mean that the dog is looking for a home and is available for Consider how your dog reacts to other dogs in public. adoption. It could also mean that the dog is nervous. Best If he or she is very reactive and exhibits behaviors such to always ask the handler for clarification. as barking, growling, or lunging, bring training treats or another method to redirect them in a positive way to Blue - this means that the dog is in training - doggie is discourage these behaviors. But, if your dog loves running for work, not play. into other doggie friends, be sensitive to the fact that not all dogs (or people) are friendly and welcoming at first. Purple - this means do not feed this dog. Here are some good tips to consider: With common courtesy and sense, everyone can enjoy this time of year when the weather is perfect and outside Do not let your dog jump up on people, no matter how events abound! friendly he/she is. Larger dogs can easily knock small children or elderly people off their feet or scratch or For more information visit: injure them in other ways. bestfriends.org/resources/dogs Don’t let your dog approach a person or another dog without asking if a) their dog is friendly; b) the human would like your dog to approach them. If a person solicits attention from your dog, it’s safe to assume they want to give a little pet or chin scratch to your pup. Bring training treats with you and use the opportunity to encourage and/or reinforce good practices of polite greetings. For additonal information visit: www.alleycatspetservice.com DECEMBER 2018 | WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE |   21