We're Back!

RUSTY & SMOKY: We're back! Unfortunately, we have had to take a bit of a hiatus, since our mom's old computer broke down and went to that great computer afterlife (where ever that is). It has taken her a bit of time to get up and running on her new computer, and so we have been unable to say hello to everyone in awhile. She is still working on getting everything setup, so no new pictures of us guys yet. But, mom did find a very interesting article about vacations and your dog, written by the fine people at Pedigree (we had a can of their lamb and rice yesterday - LOVE IT!!!) Anyway, at some point the family is planning to go away, where we supposedly can't go, so the article gave mom some pointers on what to look for in a quality, high-class kennel (only the best for us high-class mutts - we might be mutts, but we do have class, or at least we like to believe we do).

Things to look for when boarding your dog at a kennel:

• The establishment should have a current license, evidence that it is being inspected by a local government authority.
• Ask other dog owners if they can recommend a kennel in the local area.
• Go check the place out, to see if it is clean, dry, and sanitary. Ask yourself, "If I was a dog, would I be happy staying here, while my folks are away on some fabulous vacation." If not, we dogs probably would not be happy there either.
• Exercise runs should be concrete rather than grass, so that they can easily be disinfected. (Who wants to pick up other people's germs and parasites, when they are trying to relax away from home.)
• All the cages, gates, and kennels should be secure and in good repair. (Some of us canines are good escape artists - we might decide to go look for our folks and catch up with them.)
• VERY IMPORTANT - Make sure the kennel requires current vaccination paperwork of all dogs on the property. (Don't put us in harm's way, there are some scary diseases out there.) Also, remember to vaccinate us in sufficient time, since some vaccinations take from 7-14 days to become effective. (Please plan ahead, people. A doggie's life could be at stake.)
• Let the kennel know if your precious furry friend is on a special diet or medications. Also, be sure to leave the name and telephone number of your vet, just in case it is needed.
• Don't just go dump us off at some kennel, with people we don't know, and go on a long extended vacation. We need to work up to these kinds of situations. Take us for a day trip there, or a weekend visit. Then we can get to know the people there, and you and we can decide if that is the best place for us to stay when you go on vacation.
• Don't forget to leave us with a favorite toy or bedding. We already suffer separation anxiety when you leave us, so at least leave us with some kind of security blanket, something that reminds us of home sweet home.