Dogtopia of Tysons Corner, VA Blog

Peyton Mikos is a beautiful 4-year old Golden retriever who comes to daycare regularly with a smile on his fa ce. You can find this happy pup in the lounge romping the day away.

A winter snowfall for some dogs is a dream come true, for others not so much.  Either way their everyday outdoor adventures are essential, and protecting their precious paws during the winter season is important! Along with snow and ice comes road salt, which typically causes cracks and cuts to the paw from the salt’s rough texture, as well as excessive drying.  Most road salts do contain chemicals and if ingested by your dog, most likely from licking their paws, it can cause illness.  To prevent paw damage and keep your dog happy and healthy during the winter season,   make sure that he or she’s paws have been thoroughly cleaned, whether you wipe them down with a warm wash cloth or soak them in a bath tub.  Also, take the time to inspect your dog’s paws after each outing, check paw pads and in between toes to make sure nothing is lodged inside the crevices. To prevent your dogs paws from over drying you may also want to apply paw wax or vaseline before taking them out into the wintery wonderland.  Trying dog booties may even be an option, though your dog may disagree with this one!

From Jenna Stregowski, RVT, About.com:

You think you have found the perfect gift: a new puppy in a big red bow for someone you love. Surprise! Think again. While this may sound like a dream come true, it can actually be a pretty bad idea. Sure, it’s the thought that counts, but there are several reasons to avoid giving a new puppy or dog as a present. Bottom line, it’s usually not an ideal situation for the dog, nor the new owner. If you are looking for a great gift, here are some great gifts for dog lovers.

Dogs as Gifts for Adults
First of all, can you really be sure that this person even wants a new dog? If so, is the receiver actually ready for a dog? If you know this person is a dog lover, but does not already have a dog, there’s probably a good reason why. If he or she already owns a dog, perhaps it’s not the appropriate time to add another dog to the family. Talk to this person about dog ownership. Maybe you can go as moral support when the time comes to choose a dog. Either way, it’s safest to stick with gifts of the non-living and breathing variety.

Dogs as Gifts for Children
The gift of a new dog or puppy is something many kids dream about. Unfortunately, most of these little ones do not realize that with dog ownership comes responsibility. Soon enough, the care of the dog can fall into the hands of mom or dad. If you are not the child’s parent, then you really have no place giving that child a new dog unless the parent(s) are on board. If you are a parent of the child, then getting a dog is a family decision. Have a discussion with your child about the responsibilities involved. Examine your household situation so you can choose the right dog for your family.

If a New Dog is Right
If the receiver of the gift is actually in a position to welcome a new dog into the home, there are still some important things to consider. Dogs given as gifts on birthdays and holidays can get caught up in all the hustle and bustle of the events. Sadly, they may be soon forgotten like new toys and games – particularly where kids are concerned. If someone you care about is interested in getting a dog, give a book about dog ownership or a dog accessory as a gift. Discuss future plans to go and pick out that new dog or puppy. If the future owner of the dog is part of the decision process, it will be in everyone’s favor. It’s the best way to start dog and owner off on the right foot.

From Examiner.com’s DC Pet-Friendly Places column:

You’ve already taken a picture of your dog in reindeer antlers for the holiday card – you might as well break them out again and show them off!

The Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce will host the 13th annual Reindog Pageant on Sunday, Dec. 6th in the McLean Baptist Church parking lot.

Registration begins at 12:30pm and the parade will run from 1-3pm. The entrance fee is just two cans of dog food and donations will benefit the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.

Canines will parade in their best holiday outfits for contest prizes. Participants will be judged in small, medium and large categories. A Best in Show prize will also be awarded. Every four-legged contestant will receive a goodie bag for their efforts.

Santa will be attendance, as will many local pet businesses and organizations.

McLean Baptist Church
1367 Chain Bridge Road
McLean, Virginia 22101

For more information contact the McLean Chamber of Commerce.