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Who doesn’t love a tailgate? You’re out in a parking lot or backyard before the big game, your friend has the grill going and the portable speaker is too loud. This is the best part of game day, especially if your team sucks. If you have a dog, you may be tempted to bring him along, but there are some considerations to take into account before tackling play day with your dog.

Here are 8 tips for successfully tailgating your dog.

Happy Howl-oween! The spookiest holiday of the year is almost here and our tails are wagging with excitement sweets and treats come. Whether you prefer to celebrate by watching a scary thriller or a fun-filled family film, you’re sure to recognize many of these classic Halloween movie characters.

Read on to see which breed of dog or cat resembles (in appearance or personality) your favorite Halloween movie character.

Taking in a foster dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do for an animal in need. When you sign up to foster a dog, you are providing him with a safe and loving environment until he is adopted into his forever home.

Here’s how to raise a dog and the life-changing impact fostering has on animals in need.

Why a dog needs a foster home

You may need to foster a dog for several reasons. The first is that the shelter doesn’t have enough space to keep the dog, but they still want her available for adoption. The more animals they can get out of the shelter and into foster homes, the more willing they are to take in other homeless dogs.

Puppies may also need special attention before they are ready to be adopted. For example, a dog may be skittish around people and need a safe environment be socialized. She is more capable of doing so learn positive behaviors in a home than in a kennel, where the dogs have little or no human contact. This also gives the dog’s foster parent the opportunity to observe her behavior and identify the type of owner who might be right for her.

“We know that animals respond better in a home environment than in a shelter,” said Amy Nichols, vice president of companion animals at the University of Washington. Human society he says. “It could be a really important intermediate step for the dog.”

Why adopt a dog

To be successful as a foster parent, you must be an animal lover at heart. These dogs need the compassion and love of a family to prepare them for home life, especially if they have specific health or social needs.

“People believe that they should only be put up for adoption in a perfect child-free environment, a fenced yardif they work from home or on limited hours. But that’s not always the case,” says Nichols. “Dogs need different environments. (Understand) first what would make the most sense in your home and family environment.”

Dogs recovering from an illness or injury heal faster in a foster home with a loving family that keeps them comfortable. If a puppy is too young to be adopted, a foster family can raise it until it is old enough to have a forever home. Identify what situations you feel comfortable handling and search for the perfect foster dog for your lifestyle.

How to adopt a dog

Talking to local shelters may be the best way to find your match. “Each shelter has a unique population of animals, and no one knows them like the people who work with them every day,” says Kelly DiCicco, promotions manager at ASPCA Adoption Center in New York City. “Additionally, shelter staff are experienced in making successful matches and can help potential adopters or fosters decide whether an animal has a good personality and a suitable lifestyle.”

While all organizations have different policies and procedures, most shelters will ask you to fill out an application to begin the fostering process. You may also need to attend a training session or meet with the shelter before bringing your foster dog home.

Fostering coordinators work with you to identify which animal is best for your situation: dog or cat, small or large, healthy or recovering. “All dogs and cats have different personalities, and some may not they require just as much practice like others,” says DiCicco. “For example, while some dogs may benefit from living two streets away from a great dog parkothers may not show interest and will prefer a nice, quiet environment walk around the block. Likewise, some animals may like to spend long periods of time alone once they return to work, while others he may not like to be left alone a lot.”

The coordinators also take into consideration if you have other pets at home and may request them vaccination records for them to ensure they are all up to date and healthy.

How to prepare for a foster pet

Vaccinations they’re not just necessary to protect your new foster pet: they’re necessary to keep your existing pets healthy. In some cases, your vet may suggest different vaccinations or immunizations as a precaution for your furry family members. Check with your veterinarian for suggestions before fostering a dog.

Choose an area of ​​your home where your foster dog can live, a place he can become familiar with and feel comfortable. Pet-proof area similar to how you would childproof your home. Keep food and medications out of reach, close cabinets, organize cords, and put away valuables that could get damaged.

Get down to your dog’s eye level and pick up any small objects such as paper clips, string, rubber bands or bobby pins that might get into his mouth. Also, choose an area that’s easy to clean: Wooden or tile floors are easier to disinfect in case of accidents.

What do you need to adopt a dog

Once you’ve puppy-proofed your home, gather the supplies you need to care for a new pet. While the shelter may provide some things like food or toys, you may need these extras on hand:

• Earnings: Your foster dog will feel less anxious if he has a familiar “home base.” A refuge like a chest, dog bedor even a cardboard box offers your foster dog a safe haven.
• Covers: Use old towels, coversor pillows to give your foster dog a comfortable place to relax.
• Food and water: The rescue team should give you instructions on this How much to feed your foster dog and when. He will also tell you about any special medicines he takes. Start fresh water always in a specific spot and make sure the bowl is not too deep.
• Toys: Especially if a dog needs to be socialized, gaming sessions and other activities can help her come out of her shell.
• Collar and leash: Take your new friend for walks to give her some much-needed exercise and time outdoors.
• Gate: A dog gate It is useful for keeping your foster pet in a certain area of ​​the house.
• Dog treats: Reward positive behavior with treats will help you build a relationship with your foster dog and prepare your furry companion for home life.
• Grooming Supplies: Bathe the dog as needed. Consistent brushing and grooming will ensure your dog is ready for adoption when the time comes.

How to introduce a foster dog to your current pets

If you have dogs, bring them on a leash to the shelter to introduce them to the new foster dog in a safe environment. Take things slowly and let the animals get to know each other. When you are ready to bring the newbie home, keep all dogs on leashes until they feel safe with each other. Supervise carefully until you are sure everyone is comfortable.

If you have a cat, you might ask the shelter to “cat test” a new foster dog to see how he does around cats. If the potential foster dog is unable to handle other animals, he or she may not be the right foster pet for you.

Always ask about social trends before bringing home a foster dog. Allow the dog to get used to the new environment first introducing your cat. When you do this, keep the foster on a leash and let him smell his new friend. At best, your cat will be indifferent.

Letting go of your foster pet

After building such an amazing new bond with your foster pet, the day will come when it’s time to let him go. This can be especially difficult for animal lovers who want to be able to accommodate every dog. It is important to remember how beneficial your relationship was to the foster carer.

Here are some ways to make the transition smoother when it’s time to let go of your precious foster child.

• Choose a foster dog that doesn’t 100% fit your lifestyle. If you prefer large dogslook for a smaller one to foster. If you prefer a dog that doesn’t shedchoose one that has more grooming needs. Do you like relaxing on the sofa? Choose a foster carer dog that has high energy and requires regular walks. This isn’t to say that you should choose a foster pet that you can’t handle, but choosing one that isn’t right for you in the long term will make things easier when the time comes to pass it on to its forever home. You will be sad, but you will also be anxious to get back to your normal routine.
• Help your foster find her furry home. You will feel much better about giving him up if you know he will love the pet parents. Ask the shelter how you can help in the adoption process, whether it’s posting videos and photos of the dog or screening potential owners. If you meet your dog’s adopter, don’t be afraid to ask for an update in the future.
• Remember why you trusted him in the first place. Adoption saves a life, foster care saves many. While it’s hard to let go, you can feel fulfilled knowing you played a role in saving so many dogs. “Our job is to get them started, to prepare them for their next best life. (Letting them go) gives more pets that same opportunity,” Nichols says.

By helping to heal or socialize your foster dog, you are preparing him for a lifetime of love from a perfect family. And once you let go, you can open your heart and your home to a new foster. The cycle saves lives, creates more space for homeless animals in shelters, and ultimately helps more dogs find forever homes.

Through the power of positive reinforcementyou can teach your canine best friend all kinds of useful behaviors and interesting tricks. Teaching your dog to “sit” at the right time is a basic skill that you can use as a foundation for other behaviors, as well as a way to start training sessions with focus. Whether you have a new puppy or a distinguished adult, you can teach your dog to sit with patience and a few treats.

Here is a step by step guide on how to get your dog to sit at the right time.

What you need

Before you get started, make sure you have the necessary supplies.

Choose a delicious strengthener

Choose a reinforcer to give your dog when he does the sit command. A good reinforcement it’s something your dog loves, it’s small and easy to provide. For 99% of dogs it is some sort of food or treat. Treats such as cut-up hotdogs, chunks of cheese or lunch meat, or store-bought workout treats are good options.

Decide on a marker

A marker is a sound or manual signal that pinpoints the exact moment your dog did something that earned him a reinforcer (the treat). A click he is a great example of a marker. If you don’t have a clicker you can use a consistent word like “yes” or “good” or a manual signal like a thumbs up, but choose a and stick to it.

Be ready to point out the behavior the moment you see it. The more accurate and faster you grade, the more effective your teaching becomes.

5 steps to get your dog to sit

Now that your dog can “sit” on cue, you can start teaching him other new tricks like “down” and “stay.” Always remember to enjoy the learning process together, taking your time and having a lot of fun.

While studying at the Royal Veterinary College in London, Jamie Richardson, BVS, fell in love with a black man Labradors named Ralph and, once he finished school, he faced the journey back to his native United States

“It wasn’t the only time I flew with him,” said Richardson, who works as chief of staff Small door vet in New York City’s West Village, he says. “I ended up moving to Hong Kong, adopting a Chihuahua called Freddie, then moved them both to Bermuda and now to New York City.”

In addition to domestic and international flights, Richardson often takes Ralph and Freddie with him on trips when he visits his parents in upstate New York, a three-hour drive from home.

Here he offers guidance on how to travel with a dog across all the most popular means of transport.

How to travel with a dog in the car

Traveling with your dog It can be a great way to travel, but many wonder how to travel long distances safely with your dog in the car. First, make sure your dog is comfortable during car rides. If you currently only drive to the vet and groomer, try creating more frequent positive associations for your dog (like venturing to the dog park and pet store to get treats).

Like humans, dogs can also get car sickness, which can make car trips a headache for some pet parents. “If your dog gets sick after a 30-minute ride, talk to your vet about medications that might help him,” suggests Richardson. “Think about a time you got car sick; you don’t want your pet to feel the same way.”

Consider keeping your dog in a travel crate or wearing one Seatbelt harness designed for dogs in carshe adds. “And keep them well hydrated and comfortable by packing a Collapsible travel water bowlplenty of fresh water and be sure to stop frequently.”

Along the way, be sure to stop frequently for potty breaks AND walking breaks to allow both you and your puppy to stretch your legs. Check it out in advance excursions with pets trails so you can get a little extra vacation time during those breaks.

How to travel by plane with a dog

It’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian well before purchasing a plane ticket for your dog, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Consider that airlines have different health and weight requirements, so even if your dog is perfectly healthy, he may not be able to fly.

Most airlines will allow you to bring a dog on board if it weighs 20 pounds or less and can fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you during the flight. If your dog weighs more than 20 pounds (and usually 100 pounds or less) he may need to travel in the cargo hold of the plane and be checked in at the same time as your bags are checked in, which always costs a fee.

Not all airlines allow dogs in the cargo hold because they can be dangerous for your pet. If it is not absolutely necessary to bring your dog on the flight in this way, consider leaving him at home with a trusted person pet sitter or a local shelter where she will be cared for and kept safe.

Before booking any flights with your dog, consider the best types of flights that will keep your dog most comfortable. Try booking overnight flights and exercise your dog during the day before the flight so he can sleep while on the plane and maintain his circadian rhythm. If your dog must travel with you in the hold, consider the time of year you are traveling and try to book during the months with warmer weather, so it isn’t too hot or too cold and uncomfortable for him.

Guide dogs it can also be carried on a plane and must accompany the handler to the space in front of the handler’s seat and cannot block the corridor or an emergency exit. If you bring a service dog on a plane, it’s a good idea to keep these rules in mind and select a seat in advance that gives your dog space to be comfortable and safe during the flight

Can you bring a dog on a boat?

Advance planning is always helpful when thinking about the best way to travel with a dog. If you are thinking of boarding a ferry, contact the ferry company before arriving with your dog to ensure pets are allowed on board.

When it comes to cruise shipsMost cruise lines do not allow pets on board, except guide dogs (emotional support dogs are also often prohibited). It’s always best to call ahead and find out about specific rules and regulations before booking a cruise.

How about a train?

US railroad company Amtrak allows small dogs on board as long as they are in a crate and the dog and crate weigh no more than 20 pounds combined. However, regulations may change depending on whether your Amtrak train crosses international borders.

Can you bring a dog on a rideshare?

For those who prefer to travel around town using a popular rideshare service, here are the most up-to-date rules and regulations regarding bringing your dog along on your trip.

Regardless of which service you prefer, it’s best to be safe and bring an appropriate safety carrier for your dog to travel with (or a leash or harness if your dog is too big for the crate) and be courteous by bringing a blanket for the seat if your dog sheds.

Taxi

Traveling with dogs by taxi can be a little tricky. The best option is to call the taxi company in advance and ask about specific conditions for pets. Some will allow small dogs to travel in carriers, while others may ask that the dog stays at home.

Uber

Uber has a specific one pet friendly ride optionwhich can be requested using UberX by pressing the “tap to customize” button and scrolling to Pet Friendly Ride on the app. With this option, pet owners can bring along a small animal, such as a dog or cat.

Lyft

Lyft leaves the choice up to the individual driver. The best thing to do is to book a ride using the app and then call the driver on his way to you to ask if he’d be willing to let your dog in the car. Since cars are usually drivers’ personal vehicles, it will be at their discretion.

Ridesharing and guide dogs

Guide dogs are always allowed on Uber and Lyft trips, regardless of whether it’s a pet-friendly trip or the driver’s preference. Depending on federal and local laws in your area, your service animal may be able to accompany you at no additional charge.

Find dog-friendly hotels and accommodations

Nowadays, it’s common for pet parents to want to take their beloved pets wherever they go. While pets aren’t allowed everywhere, a simple phone call to a hotel can answer any questions regarding pet policies.

THE PortaFido app is a great resource to find hotels that accept pets and accommodation and most holiday rental companies (such as Airbnb AND WILLOW) offer online filtering options to help you select places to stay while traveling with your dog.

More travel tips for dog owners

Maintain a routine

Routine is key when traveling with your dog, Richardson says. “Pets thrive on a sense of routine, so try to stick to their home routine while you’re away, feeding them and taking them out for walks at the same time as usual.”

Plan and prioritize meal and water breaks

Make sure you always have enough food and fresh water for your dog when you travel, so you don’t end up without the nutrients he needs. A dog travel bag which contains food packets, food and water bowls, some toys, some treats and anything else your dog needs is very useful to have on hand.

Emergency plan

Make sure you have already researched pharmacies and veterinary clinics in your holiday destination and have the file toll-free number for pet poisons (855) 764-7661 or ASPCA Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 in your phone contacts. If your local vet has a 24/7 on-call number, it wouldn’t hurt to also have it ready to ask non-emergency questions to the vet who is most familiar with your dog’s health history. Get yourself a first aid kit for pets (OR create your own) and carry it with you in your car or bag just in case.

Identify your dog correctly

Get your dog microchipped if it isn’t already, and always attach it Identifying tags with your contact information on the collar so she can easily be found if she gets lost at an airport or runs away during one of your bathroom stops.