In the last issue, we shared some ideas on how to select the right puppy for you and your family. Now that you have chosen your new puppy, here is a handy acronym to help you successfully raise your puppy and avoid some of the more common pitfalls that result in bad puppy behavior. We call these “Steps to Raising a Puppy…O.R. E.L.S.E.!”

Assuming you are prepared to have a puppy in your life and you have the time necessary for such a challenge—er, joy—the next step is go get the puppy. Here are a few questions to ask yourself and some recommendations to think about as you begin your journey.

The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s time to think about what to get the dog lovers (and their canine companions, or yours) on your shopping list. Here are a few ideas to get you going.

Local pet parades offer great training experience.

With warmer weather setting in, it’s time to think about how to keep your pet comfortable through summer. Here are five inexpensive things you can provide for your pet in order to beat the summer heat!

Remember that New Year’s resolution you made? You know the one about getting more exercise? With March Madness long over and spring weather that has been especially pleasant, there is no excuse not to get outside. So why not grab your dog and explore some of our community’s best trails?

While it’s just another day for dogs, January 1 always seems to inspire introspection and goal-setting in the rest of us. As you ponder your person resolutions this year, why not include a pledge or two to benefit your best canine friend

In the Spring issue, we discussed how to spend quality time with your dog when you are home more than usual. In this issue, we’ll look at the reverse – when you need longer-term care for your dog while you’re away from home.

This time of year, we Valley residents often find ourselves with more free time on our hands than usual. Usually, we plan for this time – due to an upcoming long weekend, vacation, or school break. Unfortunately, for some of us, more free time arrives without warning – as a result of an illness, natural disaster, or layoff.

Most devoted dog owners are familiar with the mantra coined by television’s popular ‘dog whisperer’ – Exercise first, before Discipline and Affection.