Volume 13 | Number 06
Luvk9s July monthly newsletter
Did you know that Thursday, July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day? This annual event was started by the Kennel Club and ADT Security in 2009 to educate pet owners on how to protect their pets in case of fire.

If you haven't done so already, develop an escape plan that includes your pets. Keep a collar (with ID tag) on your pets and have leashes or pet carriers within easy reach near exit points. Be sure you have "pet alert stickers" in windows and doors where they can easily be seen. Pet alert stickers contain information that let fire fighters know how many pets are in the home.

Many local fire stations provide "pet alert stickers" for free. You can also purchase them from Amazon.

Click here to read more about how to be prepared in case of a fire emergency.
iheartdogs.com will send you two free stickers for a small shipping charge that includes a meal donation for a shelter dog.
Enrichment activity - game #1
Photo by Doris Dressler
According to the ASPCA, the key to a happy and healthy dog is "regular enrichment and allowing them to engage in their innate behaviors such as playing, chase, smelling, chewing and scavenging. By allowing your dog to engage in these behaviors, you allow them to be physically, emotionally and mentally satisfied."

This month's enrichment activity is a toy you can easily make at home. Grab an empty plastic bottle (pictured is an ICE drink bottle) and punch eight 1/2" holes into it. Fill with Bil-Jac size treats or kibble. Put it on the ground; your dog will smell the treats and start pushing the bottle around to get the treats to fall out! Some dogs will actually pick up the bottle up and shake it to try to get the treats out faster. And when the game is over, what dog doesn't love to crunch up a plastic bottle?
Socialize your puppy
Photo courtesy of Kay Malsbury 
The most important thing new puppy parents need to do is socialize their puppy. Behaviorists, dog trainers and veterinarians agree that the first three or four months of life is when sociability outweighs fear, so this is the best time to carefully introduce your puppy to as many new “stimuli” as is practical.

Every puppy’s socialization “to do” list will differ based on the owner’s lifestyle, but generally includes exposure to people, dogs and other animals, moving objects like bicycles or skateboards, indoor appliances like vacuum cleaners and ceiling fans, handling and being touched, walking on different surfaces in different environments and noises like thunder or fireworks. 
  
Visiting Home Depot with your puppy safe
in a cart is an excellent socialization
and enrichment experience. 
Upcoming educational opportunities
Photo compliments Constant Contact
Thursday classes in Big Canoe
Basic class starts Aug. 12 at 9 AM
Canine Good Citizen starts Aug. 12 at 10:30 AM

Friday classes in Ball Ground
Puppy class starts Aug. 13 at 8:30 AM
Basic class starts Aug. 13 at 10 AM

Saturday classes in Ball Ground
Puppy class starts Aug. 14 at 8:30 AM
Basic class starts Aug. 14 at 10 AM

school_dog.jpg

 Luvk9s is offering in-home
private consults. Call, email
or text for more info!