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FIDO Friendly Magazine Announces its Top 10 Fido-friendly Destinations for Autumn Leaf-Peeping in the United States

Dog Service Network — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:14:04 +0000

Fall vacations where you can enjoy the changing of the leaves with your dog.

Marsing, ID (PRWEB) August 2, 2010 – FIDO Friendly magazine (http://www.fidofriendly.com) presents its Top 10 Destinations to enjoy the changing of the leaves with Fido.

Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania
Known to many as the “honeymoon capital of the world,” Pennsylvania is home to 127 tree varieties, so early fall reveals a glorious blanket of ambers, purples, oranges and more. Pack a picnic and take Fido to the Delaware River area where eagles soar, a rural countryside graces the landscape and sightseeing is at its most spectacular finest. State parks and wineries galore are scattered throughout this section of the state. Check out www.800poconos.com/ for more things to do while the leaves change color.

Lake Champlain, Vermont
Complete with its own seven-day fall foliage calendar, www.scenesofvermont.com/, Lake Champlain is one of North America’s best places to fish. Instead of walking or riding through fall foliage, the waters of the lake invite a boat ride amidst historic lighthouses and forests of fall foliage. The Fido-friendly resort of Basin Harbor Club and Resort is located right on the lake. While in Vermont, check out Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. Situated on this glorious land is 400 acres of nature, leaves and the famous Dog Chapel.

Blue Ridge Parkway
Spanning 469 miles and connecting the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, this scenic drive is riddled with nature areas, trails and plenty of overlooks to pit-stop and take in nature’s beauty. Explore your inner hiker and take Fido to Grandfather Mountain along the parkway in Linville, North Carolina. Of special interest is Blowing Rock in the town of the same name. A 4,000-foot cliff overhanging a river gorge, check it out at www.theblowingrock.com/.

Shenandoah Valley and Washington D.C.
Spend some time exploring Washington D.C. with Fido (including hiking Arlington National Cemetery together) and then head over to the nearby Virginian Shenandoah Valley. Located 90 miles west of the Capital Beltway, Shenandoah National Park features over 500 miles of trails and close to 200,000 acres of land. Take the scenic route and let Fido sniff the aromatic pleasures gracing the grounds along Skyline Drive. This 100+ mile road meanders throughout the length of Shenandoah National Park.

Acadia National Park in Mount Desert, Maine
In 1947, a fire destroyed many spruce-fir trees in this historic park and left behind pockets of space for the rich colors of fall to showcase themselves. Considered to be one of the best views in the state of Maine, the top of Cadillac Mountain at 1,532 feet is the highest point along the north Atlantic seaboard. Fido is welcome to color gaze with you. The “peak” season is generally considered to be mid-October but this varies. Certain lakes and trails prohibit Fido but the majority of Acadia welcomes the canine variety.

Aspen, Colorado
Though images of ski slopes and powder hounds, Aspen is not only king of snow. Rich yellow-gold leaves glisten on the aspen trees at their peak every fall. The John Denver Sanctuary is small yet rich in beauty and the nature Denver sang about in so many of his songs. Behold the quaking aspen tree of North America while visiting Denver. Listen closely when autumn’s breeze shakes the leaves and they “quake” and shimmer in the wind. Backpack through San Isabel National Forest where over a million acres of mountains are sure to take both yours and Fido’s breath away.

Wisconsin’s Great River Road
Located in the western region of the state, this area winds 250 miles along the shores of the Mississippi river. Quaint towns pepper themselves along the route for plenty of sightseeing, leaf peeping and Fido pit stops. Steamboats including the Delta Queen may pass by, as visitors are welcome to 50 local parks and beaches. The road generally parallels the river but where it does sway from it, vistas and spectacular farmlands are abundant. Learn more and check the fall color forecast at www.travelwisconsin.com/fallcolor_report.aspx.

Catskill Mountains of New York
Located in New York’s Hudson Valley and within 100 miles north of the city, nestled away is this beautiful mountainous region harboring vibrancy and golds galore. During the last two weeks of September and up until mid-October Fido is sure to “start spreading the news” in this historic region. Harvest festivals, farmers markets, orchard picking and craft fairs line the charming towns that surround the Catskills. Often called “America’s First Wilderness,” there’s enough here to do to make a complete week’s vacation out of it. There is a unique leaf identification and peak peeping map here: http://nylovesu.co.uk/index.cfm?PID=154136.

Washington County, Maine
Looking to the trees and wishing to escape the tourists? Head over to Washington County for a tranquil natural fortitude. Regionally, the birch, oak, aspen, maple, and ash trees produce a vibrant array of burnt oranges and fiery reds. Also famous for being the world’s largest blueberry producer, take home a few quarts and sample the pies and pancakes while visiting. This area is generally the first place the sun rises each morning on US soil. Washington County is comprised of 85 percent woodlands, 8 percent lakes and 4 percent bogs, so one can imagine the bountiful beauty gracing the landscape in the autumn months.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Yee haw meets dog paw and Fido’s ready to hit fall trail. Nature’s spectacle displays her glory at McKittrick Canyon, one of the most prized locations in the entire state. Enchanting in this region are the leaves plus the cacti. Rock enthusiasts rejoice at Permian Reef. Trees of the region include Alligator Juniper, Ponderosa Pine and Velvet Ash. Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in all of Texas at 8,749 feet. For those less inclined to high the 80 miles of trails, a 4×4 road runs through the park for scenic driving.

For more details visit http://www.fidofriendly.com. FIDO Friendly magazine was founded in 2001 as the Travel & Lifestyle magazine for you and your dog. Each bimonthly issue can be found at Borders, Barnes & Noble, Hastings and Fido-friendly hotels nationwide. Now in its 10th year, each issue includes hotel and destination reviews, health and wellness topics, dog training advice and the latest fashion trends.

Press Contact:
Susan Sims FIDO Friendly, Inc. 208-896-6011

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Source: PR Web

FIDO Friendly Magazine Announces its Top 10 Fido-friendly Beaches in the United States

Dog Service Network — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:47:45 +0000

FIDO Friendly magazine presents its Top 10 Sizzling Summertime FIDO-Friendly beaches. The list was compiled of those beaches that have little or no leash restrictions.

Marsing, ID (PRWEB) June 8, 2010 — FIDO Friendly magazine (http://www.fidofriendly.com) presents its Top 10 Sizzling Summertime FIDO-Friendly beaches. The list was compiled of those beaches that have little or no leash restrictions.

A game of fetch is made more fun with the addition of new friends found at the beach.

Huntington Beach Dog Beach, Huntington Beach, California – There are beaches and then there are those with Dog in their name, imploring us to wag our tails in the direction of Huntington Beach Dog Beach. Aptly located about 10 miles from Disneyland, this beach is an amusement park of sorts for Fido. Leash-less and living large is how Fido will feel sinking his paws into the sand. Doggie alfresco diners abound in the area, so Fido and his guardian can cool down after a hot day of surf and sand. http://www.dogbeach.org/

Carmel City Beach, Carmel-by-the Sea, California – Wish we all could be California dogs might just ring true when visiting this very Fido-friendly beach. Leave preconceived notions and leashes in the car because Fido is free to frolic off lead under voice control. So Fido friendly is this beach area that they have their own newspaper, Doggie Gazette. Nearby Carmel Fountain is for dogs only and many stores along Ocean Avenue allow Fido to shop inside with his guardian. . http://www.doggiegazette.com/

Cape San Blas beaches, Florida Panhandle/Gulf County: Some areas like Fido on their beaches, but the sandy coastline of Cape San Blas says they LOVE dogs on their beaches! Nearby pet-friendly rentals add to the convenience and hospitality extended to canine travelers. Fido is allowed to take in the ocean air ANY time, as there are no set “dog” hours. Several restaurants in the Apalachicola area welcome Fido, so hit the surf and refuel on the turf. http://www.thecapeescape.com/Pets.html

Fort DeSoto Dog Beach, Fort DeSoto, Florida: An entire section of this Fido-friendly beach is totally leash-free! In addition to having fun in the beach sun, Fido is welcome to visit Paw Playground and play to his heart’s content. Wash sandy paws and cool Fido off with a frolic in the water or borrow the hose available on site. “Fido’s dream beach come true,” “family and Fido-friendly to the max” and “clean and serene” are all comments beachgoers have shared about this tail-waggin’ find! http://www.fortdesoto.com/pawplayground.php

Dog Beach, Ocean Beach, California – Year round off lead: four words to delight any Fido-friendly beachgoers ears. This rings true at the popular Dog Beach in beautiful Ocean Beach. This section of beach is located at the north end for canines to let loose and lap it up. Ocean Beach is a small community located a few miles northwest of San Diego. Off-leash is a dog’s Disneyland, and with 38 acres to explore, this beach has been open to Fido since 1972. Keep the good karma swimming and please pick up after your pet. http://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/ob.shtml

Coronado Dog Beach – Coronado, California: Draw paw circles in the sand at this beachy find near the Naval Air Station. Fido is welcome to channel his inner surfer, as Coronado Dog Beach is leash-less. Restrooms for humans on premises and a water spigot at the entrance to wash sandy paws. The beach is far enough from the road to feel safe and close enough to the ocean to catch a wave. The Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog competition is held nearby as Fido takes to the water to surf. Check it out at: http://loewssurfdog.blogspot.com/

Dog Beach, Bonita Beach Road – Lee County, Florida: Bring soda for your thirst and expect SOODA when you arrive. SOODA is Save Our Off-Leash Dog Area, and is a group of local volunteers who maintain this beach. Beach size varies according to tide and time. Located in the coastal tideland area of south Lee County, this leash-less beach is the perfect place to leave paw prints in the sand. The county’s honor system trusts that Fido will be under guardian command, and as always bring waste bags. http://www.flsooda.org/

Town of Duck Beaches, North Carolina – Beaches aren’t public access, so for those traveling with Fido, you’re in for unleashed luck in Duck! Dogs are permitted to play on the town’s beach under voice control of their watchful guardian. Fido is allowed off lead on Duck’s beach year-round. Due to their lack of public access, the beaches tend to be less crowded and more intimate. In fact, the Travel Channel’s annual America’s Best Beaches List ranks Duck’s beach amongst the highest. With its miles of clean beaches and surrounding shops and activities, not only is this a Fido-friendly beach town but a great vacation getaway. www.townofduck.com/pets.htm

Susan Kimmelman Off-Leash Dog Beach (Montrose Dog Beach) – Chicago, Illinois: Dogs are welcome to channel their inner puppy and head for sandy beaches from the waves of Montrose Dog Beach. Ensconced in shallow waters for the smaller Fido ‘guppies’ and rougher waters for the braver pooches, this beach has something for everyone in Fido’s family. Leave the leash at home (or at least in the car) and be sure to pay your $5 fee for a dog beach tag. If visiting Chicago, you’ll want to make a trip to this fun-in-the-sun getaway for the canine member of your entourage. http://www.mondog.org/wp/?page_id=19

Del Mar Dog Beach, Del Mar, California – also known as North Beach. From 29th Street to the Solana Beach border, leashed dogs are permitted from June 15th through Labor Day. From Labor Day through June 14th, Fido is welcomed to explore the beach leash-free under guardian voice command. Looking to mingle with like-minded Fido folk and their furry friends? Del Mar Dog Beach is a very social and easygoing, clean beach where dogs can mingle together amidst the ocean’s surf. Pay attention to high tide periods so you can sink paws into sand and not rocks. http://www.delmar.ca.us/visitors/Pages/DogBeach.aspx

Source: PR Web

Navigating the Challenges of Summer Pet Travel

Dog Service Network — Sat, 29 May 2010 02:16:21 +0000

PETCO Partners with Radio Personality, Tracie Hotchner, to Simplify Summer Pet Travel

San Diego (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 28, 2010 — Summer is just around the corner, school is almost out, the weather is heating up and bags are being packed. Many Americans will soon head out on vacation and bring along their four-legged friend. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, an estimated 29.1 million Americans have traveled with a pet in the past three years. However, few consider the many safety and regulation issues associated with pet travel until it’s too late. PETCO and pet expert Tracie Hotchner, host of NPR’s Gracie-Award® winning show “Dog Talk”® and “Cat Chat”® on the Martha Stewart channel of SiriusXM satellite radio, have teamed up to educate vacationers on the many challenges associated with pet travel and how to better prepare yourself and your furry friend.

CHALLENGE #1: Ensuring Your Establishment is Pet-Friendly
SOLUTION: You may be surprised to learn that finding a pet-friendly hotel is easier than ever if you know where to look. The Internet is a great place to start for the most up-to-date and timely information. There are also many websites that have comprehensive lists of pet-friendly hotels and campgrounds. Stop by an AAA office to pick up their localized pet guide. Extra tip: when staying in your home-away-from-home, feed pets on the tile bathroom floor to help with hotel cleanup and always tip the maid for a job well done.

CHALLENGE #2: Knowing What to Pack for Your Pet
SOLUTION: Packing for a pet is much like packing for a child — you must prepare for every occasion. Make sure your dog has a collar listing your mobile number not your home number. Microchips are another surefire way to ensure a pet’s safe return if lost. Prepare your pets’ normal food in plastic bags, as switching their diet can result in stomach upset. For those packing lightly, freeze dried meals are available and easy to pack such as Grandma Lucy’s raw dehydrated premium foods sold in the natural section of PETCO. Always pack towels to cover the back seat of your car or rental car, as well as plastic bags to pick up after your pet regardless of local laws. Water is also critical, so bring portable water bowls and plenty of water. You can find PETCO brand foldable bowls at your nearest location. Simplify things by creating a pet travel kit with food, treats, favorite toys, any medicines and health documents.

CHALLENGE #3: Inconsistent & Confusing Pet Travel Airline Regulations
SOLUTION: There are so many things to consider when traveling by air and information is often confusing and ever-changing. Tracie says, “beginning your journey with a pre-approved pet carrier always helps to ensure your airline travel runs smooth.” PETCO and Sherpa have partnered with American Airlines to create the ”Guaranteed on Board” program, which includes universally approved pet carriers that come with all the necessary information for airline pet travel. To avoid confusion at the airport, plan ahead by making a reservation for your pet. Most airlines only allow a small number of animals in the cargo area and an even smaller number of animals inside the cabin. If your pet is traveling in the cabin with you, they must fit comfortably under your seat in a pre-approved carrier and not be taken out for the duration of the flight. Additionally, make sure you have your pets’ health certificate, pet passport for international travel, and proof of age. Always check with your individual airline before taking off so you have the most up-to-date information.

CHALLENGE #4: Dealing with a Nervous Animal
SOLUTION: Just like humans, pets become anxious when put in new situations. “Before traveling, get your pet acquainted with their carrier or take them in the car to a place other than the vet,” Tracie suggests. The more familiar your animal is with their surroundings, the more at ease they will be. Most vets agree that you should not give your pet a tranquilizer before they fly. Your pet is more likely to deal better with their anxiety without tranquilizers. Additionally, less food in the animal’s system is less likely to upset his/her digestive track making the animal feel more at ease.

CHALLENGE #5: Ensuring Pet Safety
SOLUTION: A recent survey from petrelocation.com stated that 80 percent of those traveling with their pet say the safety of their pet is the most important thing when planning their travel arrangements. While driving in your car, Tracie suggests a dog seatbelt or a barrier. ”’These products can be found in a major pet store like PETCO, and can help keep your animal contained and comfortable in the car.” Try PETCO’s adjustable auto safety vest harness. Additionally, make sure not to leave your pet in the car for an extended time. Even leaving your pet in the car for a short amount of time on a hot day can be lethal. When traveling by air, Tracie suggests ”not letting your pet travel in the cargo area of a plane unless necessary.” Although the cargo area is pressurized, its temperature often relates to the temperature outside the aircraft, which can be very hot or very cold.

About PETCO
PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. We operate more than 1,000 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at www.petco.com. Our nonprofit organization, The PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $60 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support about 6,200 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.

About Tracie Hotchner
Tracie brought the keen eye of her background as an investigative reporter to every aspect of living with a dog, resulting in THE DOG BIBLE: Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know. Tracie has established herself as a foremost pet wellness advocate in the United States and her encyclopedic book covers everything from medical issues to training, nutrition and problem solving. Tracie did it again for cat lovers with the all-encompassing THE CAT BIBLE: Everything Your Cat Expects You to Know. Tracie also has a “mini-empire” of weekly live radio programs, all of them dealing with dog and cat wellness issues. She is the host of both CAT CHAT® that airs Wednesday nights on the Martha Stewart channel of SiriusXM satellite radio and her first show, DOG TALK® on NPR station WLIU 88.3 FM from Southampton New York won a prestigious Gracie Award in 2010 for Outstanding Host of an Entertainment/Information show on public radio.

Source: PR Web

Becker Animal Hospital and Pet Resort Opens in San Antonio

Dog Service Network — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:33:34 +0000

Dr. Michael Becker, DVM, opens new 24-hour 22,000-sq. ft. veterinary clinic and pet resort

San Antonio, TX (Vocus/PRWEB ) January 26, 2010 — Michael Becker, DVM, founder of Becker Animal Hospital—a full-service veterinary clinic—has opened a new 22,000-sq. ft. veterinary clinic and pet resort in San Antonio at 6515 IH-10 West, near the IH-10 and Loop 410 interchange.

Named the “Becker Animal Hospital and Pet Resort,” the new facility is a full-service, state-of-the-art, 24-hour veterinary hospital and luxurious pet resort offering luxury suite boarding, indoor-outdoor kennel boarding and standard cage boarding, as well as doggie day care and other ancillary pet services.

Dr. Becker and his wife Josie traveled to several facilities in California and other states before finalizing the accommodations he offers at his facility. The new facility is 22,000 sq. ft. in size, with the 18,000 sq. ft. hospital and pet resort comprising the base of the main building; 2,000 sq. ft. of overnight housing and meeting space upstairs; and a 2,000-square-foot detached building housing a big dog bath and dip room, a cremation and freezer room.

Pet Resort:

Dedicated food prep room, storage
A second bath and dip ward with 30 cages
32 indoor/outdoor runs
36 indoor only runs
53 luxury suites complete with web cams—some with windows to the outside
Dedicated feline boarding room with a play area that can house 60 or more cats
Indoor 900 sq. ft. doggie day care room floor to ceiling glass for public viewing
Outside day care area, complete with an in-ground swimming pool
16 outdoor runs for exercise
Big dog bath/dip room with 30 cages
Covered outdoor staff break area on the east end of this building
Two dog-walking areas
Large enclosed outdoor exam area, for any pet that does better outside
10 separate make-ready kennels with water and electric dryers to get pets ready to leave

Hospital:

Dedicated dental alcove with a surgery table, radiograph and ultrasound room, staff break room, an associate doctors office, and a storage room
Prep and surgical rooms
Two separated treatment areas with a total of seven work tables
Dedicated prep room with a pass-through cabinet to surgery
Surgery is separated into two separate suites
Liquid oxygen system with ceiling drop oxygen and scavenge
Multiple treatment cages in both treatment rooms with a dedicated oxygen cage system
Isolation room with 10 cages and two runs
Bath dip room with 30 cages
Laundry room

Visiting Veterinarian Motel (second floor):

Four “motel” rooms with a simple kitchen and full bath
Central conference room
Small deck outside with a view of downtown San Antonio
Full laundry system and a freezer

Lobby and Offices:

A dedicated retail food room
60’ of secure product shelf space behind the front desk
Three flat screen TVs in the lobby for veterinary information
Administration room for private client consultations
Lab equipment, a business office, training room, private office space, custodial space and storage

While most veterinary clinics are modeled after human clinics with rigid schedules and appointments, the Becker Animal Hospital has a “no appointment necessary” policy that is available seven days a week, with no additional charges for evenings (the practice is open 24 hours) and weekends. Customers welcome the flexibility of not having to rearrange work schedules to accommodate their pet’s health and well-being.

“The Becker Animal Hospital will continue to grow with the principals upon which it was created on: service to our human and, especially, our animal clients,” says Michael Becker, DVM, founder, owner and chief veterinarian, Becker Animal Hospital. “Our goal is to serve healthy and properly treated pets with satisfied owners satisfied beyond their expectations.”

The full-service veterinary hospital that treats dogs, cats, exotics (hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs), birds and ferrets offers the following services:

Comprehensive medical care
Surgical services
Dental services
Bathing
Grooming
Flea dipping
Rabies observation
Parvo virus treatments
Infectious disease treatment
Trauma treatment
Boarding (dogs, cats and birds)
In-house blood work lab
X-ray radiographs with direct digital imaging
ECG diagnostic
Full vaccination protocol for dogs and cats
Microchip IDs

Dr. Becker is originally from St. Louis and attended the University of Missouri, at Columbia, Mo. from 1975 to 1983 where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Becker worked more than two years in Las Vegas, Nevada before establishing his practice and opening the original Becker Animal Hospital in San Antonio in 1986.

The Veterinarian for the City of Balcones Heights, he regularly attends the Western States Vet Conference to further his veterinary skills and various business classes in the areas of administration and management.

The Becker Animal Hospital staff is fully bilingual. For more information on the Becker Animal Hospital and Pet Resort visit the websitewww.beckeranimalhospital.com, call 210-732-5148.

Source: PRWeb

15 Dog-Friendly Joie de Vivre Hotels Drop Canine Weight Limits, Offer Pet-Friendly Perks

Dog Service Network — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 23:49:04 +0000

Joie De Vivre Makes Special Accommodations For Guests’ Four-Legged Friends.

San Francisco, CA (Vocus/PRWEB ) June 19, 2009 — Joie de Vivre, California’s largest boutique hotel collection, has made canine check-ins at its pet-friendly hotels even more welcoming for dogs and their owners. At its 15 pet-friendly boutique properties in the San Francisco Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and Southern California, dog owners can now bring their pets along for the journey without worrying about weight limit restrictions or pet fees being imposed for their stay.

“In the past eight months, we’ve nearly doubled the number of dog-friendly hotels in the collection,” said Joie de Vivre Founder and CEO Chip Conley. “We wanted to make our pet-friendly hotels even more hospitable to dogs, so we scrapped weight restrictions and standard pet surcharges so that more of our guests can enjoy traveling with their pets.”

Almost half of Joie de Vivre’s 35 boutique hotels welcome pets. In San Francisco, the collection offers more dog-friendly hotels than any other hotel group. In addition to the 10 dog-friendly properties in San Francisco, there are three dog-friendly hotels in the East Bay and Marin County and one in Silicon Valley. In Southern California, where the group is expanding rapidly, the new Shorebreak Hotel in Huntington Beach and Hotel Maya in Long Beach welcome dogs and their owners. A third boutique hotel in Southern California – the Pacific Edge Hotel on Laguna Beach – will join Joie de Vivre’s pet-friendly pack when it becomes a Joie de Vivre hotel this fall.

In addition to eliminating weight limits and not charging a fee for pets (provided there is no damage to a guestroom and dog owners abide by pet policy rules), Joie de Vivre’s pet-friendly hotels also offer special amenities for four-legged guests. These include in-room dog beds, dog food, water bowls, toys, and even a doggie turndown service. Each hotel offers different amenities and some offer fee-based grooming or dog walking upon request.

For more information or to book Joie de Vivre’s “Something to Bark About” package, please visit www.summercalifornia.com or www.jdvhotels.com.

Note to Editors: There is no additional charge for a dog staying with its owner in a guestroom provided there is no damage to the room and the guest follows the hotel’s pet policies.

About Joie de Vivre
San Francisco-based Joie de Vivre (http://www.jdvhotels.com) is a collection of creative lifestyle businesses. Founded in 1987 by Chip Conley, Joie de Vivre manages nearly 40 boutique hotels, more than 20 restaurants and four spas, and is recognized for creating some of the most innovative hospitality services and products and designing one-of-a-kind properties. Joie de Vivre also manages residential projects with hotel-style services and amenities. As California’s largest boutique hotel collection, Joie de Vivre Hotels is becoming the hotel brand synonymous with the California travel experience, offering a wide range of unique urban, suburban and waterfront boutique hotels that cater to leisure and business travelers in all market segments. Joie de Vivre hotels are located in San Francisco, Marin County, Silicon Valley, San Francisco East Bay, Big Sur, Sonoma County, Santa Cruz, Sacramento and Los Angeles. In 2009, Joie de Vivre continues its California expansion with hotels opening in Huntington Beach, Long Beach, Venice Beach, Santa Clara and Laguna Beach.

Source: PR Web

It’s Easy for Dogs to “Go Green” at Loews Hotels

Dog Service Network — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 03:09:05 +0000

Canines Can Take an Environmentally-Friendly “Grrreen Dog” Vacation this Earth Day

New York (Vocus/PRWEB ) April 8, 2009 — As part of its commitment to the environment, Loews Hotels encourages even its furriest guests to do their part in promoting responsible, sustainable consumption (literally). The new Loews “Grrreen Dog” package features a specially created “Dog Gone Green” room service meal, a veterinarian approved healthy feast which mixes locally grown ingredients from neighborhood farms with a lot of love. The “Grrreen Dog” package will launch on Earth Day (April 22, 2009) and features several additional earth-friendly components.

Available April 22 – September 5, 2009, “Grrreen Dog” package rates vary by hotel, starting at $119 per night. Package includes:

A one-night stay at one of Loews Hotels 17 properties for guests and their pet
“Dog Gone Green” room service meal with local ingredients (see recipe below)
A Loews Hotels 100 % organic cotton bandana made by Go Doggie Go Green^TM
A Zogoflex^TM Huck, an environmentally-friendly toy by West Paw Design ®

Loews Hotels commissioned Go Doggie Go Green^TM to create the custom 100 % organic cotton bandanas. Go Doggie Go Green^TM products are made in America and are 100% organic – the cotton is washed (not bleached) and only environmentally friendly vegetable/plant base inks are used. More information on Go Doggie Go Green^TM is available at www.GoDoggieGoGreen.com.

Loews Hotels selected West Paw Design to supply the toys because the company creates products with minimal environmental impact by using nontoxic, organic or recyclable materials for all canine products. The Huck toys are a perfect fit for dogs of all sizes and are strong enough to last through endless hours of fetch or rough housing. Made with nontoxic, durable and pliable material, the Huck can also be recycled. Its bright key lime green color assures that owners will not lose sight of their pet’s new favorite toy, in the hotel room or the back yard.

Since the introduction of the Loews Loves Pets program nearly a decade ago, many VIPs (Very Important Pets) have made Loews Hotels their home away from home, enjoying the special treatment and privileges that are offered at all of the chain’s properties in the U.S. and Canada. As part of the Loews Loves Pets program, each visiting VIP can travel in first-class comfort with gourmet room service, specialized bedding, a pet amenity and guest services designed to make pets and their owners feel right at home.

The Loews “Grrreen Dog” package is subject to availability and is bookable at 17 Loews Hotels in the U.S. and Canada. For more information or to book, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit www.loewshotels.com.

* Photos available upon request
Headquartered in New York City, Loews Hotels owns and/or operates 17 hotels and resorts in the U.S. and Canada. Located in major city centers and resort destinations from coast to coast, the Loews portfolio features one-of-a-kind properties that go beyond Four Diamond standards to delight guests with a supremely comfortable, uniquely local and vibrant travel experience. Loews boasts some of the industry’s most innovative and successful travel programs, including Loews Loves Kids for families and Loews Loves Pets for discerning animals on the road. For reservations or more information on Loews Hotels, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or check www.loewshotels.com.

Loews Loves Pets “Dog Gone Green” Recipe:

Loews Hotels Executive Chef Mark Ehrler’s Recipe and Suggestions:

Take your pet friend to your local farmer’s market, select the following ingredients, then stroll back home and prepare this delicious organic feast. Keeping in mind that we arrive at the Farmer’s market with a shopping list, but always leave with unexpected exciting ingredients that are at the finest level of freshness for the season, unleashing our creative side which we can practice on our best friend…Happy seasonal cooking.

1 tbsp: Organic Olive oil
¼ cup: Organic diced Chicken breast diced or any protein available that day, including seafood
¼ cup: White Mushroom sliced or what the season has to offer
½ cup: Green peas or any other green available
1 loaf: Artisan’s country bread. Cut one slice into small crouton according to the size of your friend.

Save the rest for yourself
¼: Cup of water (or chicken broth)
1: Teaspoon of Chopped parsley
¼: Cup of grated local Artisan’s Cheese

Contact:
Emily Goldfischer
Loews Hotels
(212) 521-2833
egoldfischer (at) loewshotels.com

Michelle Colligan/Gabriella McNamara
Redpoint Marketing PR, Inc.
(212) 229-0119
colligan (at) redpointpr.com
mcnamara (at) redpointpr.com

Source: PR Web Press Release Newswire

“Presidential POOCH” Package @ Loews Hotel

Dog Service Network — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:58:57 +0000

During the first 100 days of the Obama administration (Jan. 20th – Apr. 29th), Loews Hotel is offering an “indoguration” for all with the “Presidential Pooch” package.

The “Presidential Pooch” package includes:

1 night stay at one of the 17 Loews Hotel properties for guests and their pets
“Stars & Stripes” room service meal for dogs*
Patriotic-themed bandanna for dogs

The price of this package is at a 10% discounted off the Loews Best Guaranteed Rate. Rates start at $139/night, but vary based on location.

The Loews Hotel also has a “Loews Loves Pets” program that offers each VIP (Very Important Pet) member gourmet room service, specialized bedding, a pet amenity and guest services designed to make pets and their owners feel right at home.

*Loews Loves Pets – Stars and Stripes Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Cooked Sundried Tomato Fettucini
1/2 cup Cooked Star Shaped Pasta
1/3 cup Dried Blue Corn Kernels
2 T Olive Oil
1 lb Ground Turkey
1 ea Egg, whole

Directions:

Step 1: Place the dried blue corn in cold water and bring to a boil
Step 2: Remove from the fire and let cool down until fully rehydrated
Step 3: Sauté the ground turkey in the olive oil, then add the egg and scramble until turkey and egg are fully cooked
Step 4: Add the red fettuccini strips, the white star pasta, and the blue corn kernels and let cool to the touch
Step 5: Serve in an oval bowl. The portion size will vary according to the size of patriotic pet

For more information on the “Presidential Pooch” package, visit the Loews Hotel at www.loewshotels.com

CAR AVERSION and ANXIETY

Dog Service Network — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:31:39 +0000

Anxiety and Sickness in cars is actually quite common, despite popular belief these behaviours are generally not caused through motion sickness or balance problems. It is my belief that this debilitating problem is caused through anxiety and fear.

I believe that carsickness and anxiety cases are initially, caused on that first journey when the puppy is taken from the litter to your home. We tend to get our puppies right at the start of the first fear period, which is between eight to ten and a half weeks.

This has to be one of the most traumatic times in a dog’s life, when it is separated from its littermates and its birth mother. Suddenly on it’s own without the comfort of those it knows the most.

The first thing we do is put it in a car and drive often dozens if not hundreds of miles. Therefore is it any surprise that future car journeys can induce fear and stress, sometimes resulting in the dog being sick or anxious. And occasionally, causing other problems-such as just getting the dog into the car in the first place.

Case History 1: I have had a recent spate of cases where dogs are refusing to approach or get into the car, especially with large dogs that are almost impossible to manhandle. Take the case of Glanton, a beautiful looking Irish Wolfhound, owned by Michael and Sarah More-Molyneux who live and run the stunningly beautiful Loseley House near Guildford, which is open to the public.

Built between 1562 and 1568. This house was a favourite of Elizabeth the 1st of England, the grounds are also the Venue for the Richmond dog show, one of the largest dog shows in Europe

Glanton was not exactly enamoured with cars, in fact he had steadfastly refused to even approach one since that first journey, given he was now 16 months old and enormous, he was proving to be a real handful and incredibly strong.

I first gently approached the back of Sarah’s car with the tailgate already open. I ended up being dragged some hundred yards down the road by a dog that was having none of it. I weigh 15 stone and still struggled to hold him. Sarah weighs probably eight and half stone, so how she coped I will never know.

After being dragged down the road I decided it was time to change tack and asked Sarah to get into the back of her car with some very special treats. I used venison heart and venison tongue, available as a special treat from one of the leading dog food suppliers. For some reason dogs go mad for it.

If all else fails try these as a lure and a treat. I had tested them out earlier on Glanton and he was already a fan.

I managed to manoeuvre him to within 10 yards of the back of the car and with Sarah encouraging, ran with him on a lead to the rear of the vehicle, Glanton sailed in and was immediately rewarded with the venison treats.

We repeated this until I could let Glanton go and with Sarah’s excellent encouragement he began jumping in on his own.

To reinforce this over the next few weeks I asked Sarah to only feed Glanton in the car, but not to start the engine until he appeared comfortable. Treats were liberally spread in the back of the car, which he found each time he got in. At the time of going to press he was happily eating in the vehicle and the car had been started and moved around the estate and he had been on short forays to the nearest village.

As a footnote he appears more nervous when Sarah drives. Of course it was Sarah who initially picked him up from the breeder during that dreaded first fear period at eight to ten and a half weeks. When so many phobias can arise

I feel confident that Glanton will overcome most of his car anxiety and phobias. He will never be totally confident in a vehicle but he is vastly improved, and at least they can now travel with Glanton and take him to places like the Vets.

Case History 2 : Paddy is a very large and very heavy Male Newfoundland with the Worlds longest tongue, that could slime you at ten paces. Paddy had been prescribed numerous medical remedies and had visited a well known behaviourist, unfortunately to no avail. His owner Louise was at her wits end, it took four people to try and manhandle him into her car; he would then immediately jump out.

Paddy is a somewhat nervous dog, after discussing Paddy with Louise his owner it became apparent that he was frightened during his second fear period at about 12 months of age, by a large man who loomed over him. He now barks at all strangers and especially men.

He had never ever jumped into a car since his first journey at that magical fear period at 8 weeks. We also take our dogs to the Vet, and the first thing the Vet does is stick a needle in them for their initial vaccination.

Is it any wonder they often end up with a lifelong fear of the surgery? Try taking them a few times so that the nurses can treat and fuss them, before having that first vaccination, they should hopefully not see the visit in such a negative light after that.

Paddy really did not like the car one bit, but he did love Louise and more importantly other dogs. I had four of my dogs with me, the one Paddy really took a shine too was Guinness, my 6 month old working Cocker. I really should have named him Billy Whizz he is seriously fast and I may enter him for gundog competitions in the future.

After doing a number of exercises, including getting Paddy to walk to heel and stop barking at people, by using the Jingler, a technique I devised and developed that uses sound therapy. We opened the back of the dreaded car.
Paddy looked very stressed and nervous. But instead of putting Paddy in I put Louise and Guinness in. Then Louise cuddled and treated Guinness with the Venison, which we had introduced to Paddy earlier. Initially he refused to take treats but came round after gentle handling.

Paddy I could see was feeling a bit left out, so I put a little rope slip lead over his head and we set off at a trot to the back of the car with Louise encouraging him.

I was expecting that Paddy would come to a screeching halt, but instead he sailed in the back and promptly sat on both Louise and Guinness. To be honest he did not take the Venison at that time, but he did not look overly stressed, and more importantly he did not jump back out. In fact I had to encourage him back out.

We repeated this until I could let Paddy go and with lots of encouragement from Louise and Guinness he lumbered up to and into the car. I think it was quite an emotional moment for all, including Louise’s parents who were there to observe, as they looked after Paddy if Louise was away, and of course the car was a serious bone of contention (pun intended) for them as well.

For those who are having serious difficulty than I would suggest attempting the above however try not to force or push the dog into the car this only makes it worse.

Once you have managed to get the dog into the back of the car, you need to desensitise him. With the engine switched off feed the dog it’s meals in there, you can sit in with him during this time, after a day or so feed the dog with the engine running then run the car round the block a day or two after that

If the dog is carsick, calculate how long it takes for the dog to become sick and find a place to exercise the dog that you can drive to it before he becomes physically sick.

If possible have someone in the car that can feed titbits to the dog if they will take them. (Dogs will not eat if stressed). But do not sympathise with the dog as this will only fuel the fear, keep him distracted by titbits, toys or play during the journey to the park or wherever you are going. Then do all the things you normally do play ball, run, hide etc. You don’t have to stay long just long enough for the dog to enjoy itself. On the journey home do the same things, distracting the dog from the journey itself.

If possible repeat several times a day. Once the dog is happy and even eager to go in the car then lengthen the journey to approaching the time when the dog was normally sick, then gradually increase the journey to 35/40 minute.
if there are no signs of distress or anxiety, then you probably have the problem sorted.

Repetition is the key to these types of problems, overcoming the dogs initial stress and fear little by little, until it takes away the original concern that was causing the sickness/anxiety.

You can also use a DAP diffuser in the house and a DAP spray in the car and sometimes natural ginger can help. Dr Bach’s rescue remedy may also help, they come in both spray and drops along with Scullcap and Valerian, always discuss any treatments whether Herbal or otherwise with your Vet.

Stan Rawlinson.
Dog Behaviourist & Obedience Trainer
enquiries@doglistener.co.uk
H 0208 979 2019
M 07976 153161
Visit My Website on:
www.doglistener.co.uk

© Copyright: Stan Rawlinson (Doglistener) one of the leading Dog Behaviourists and Obedience Trainers in the UK. Who has owned and worked dogs for over 30 years, starting with Gundogs then moving on to the behavioural and obedience side of Pet Dogs. He now has a successful practice covering London, Surrey and Middlesex. Visit his Web Site for more information and details of his work. www.doglistener.co.uk

Dog Friendly Vacation Places

Dog Service Network — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 17:52:51 +0000

If you’re one who prefers to bring their dog on vacations, rather than leaving it at the dog kennel, or would like find a place you can go vacationing with your dog, then don’t worry, there are pet friendly places to travel to, that will be enjoyable for both you and your dog!

Here are a few pet friendly vacation ideas:

1. Las Vegas

You can walk down the Las Vegas Boulevard (A.K.A. The Strip) with your leashed dog, while you take in the view of what the city has to offer

Off the Las Vegas Strip is the Red Rock Canyon, where you can walk your leashed dog on one of the 19 hiking trails

While touring the area with your dog, make sure you both have lots of water to stay hydrated in this hot desert

2. Boston

There are many paths for you and your dog to walk and explore such as the Freedom Trail, the 2.5 mile redlined sidewalks where you can view Paul Revere’s House, Old North Church, The State House, and Faneuil Hall (A.K.A. Quincy Market)

You can also visit Boston’s South End to stop in the Polka Dog Bakery, where you can get your dog a doggy treat!

3. Key West, FL

You and your dog can go to what’s called the “Dog Beach”, where your dog will be able to hang out with the many other dogs at the beach, chase the birds and other wildlife, run in the sand, go swimming, and much more!

So there are options for you to travel with your dog, especially if you don’t want to leave it at the dog kennel this time.

Getting Your Dog Café-Ready

Laura — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:43:03 +0000

[AD]
I share my life with a German Shepherd Dog named Trista. From the very start of our life together, I trained her to hold a good down-stay. For those first weeks and months, we actively practiced everywhere: at home, on park benches, in sidewalk cafés. The first stages required frequent food reinforcement, or reward, to keep her attentive and working. As she became more consistent, I spaced out the food rewards, relying more on verbal encouragement. And with more time, she accomplished fairly long stretches with no attention from me at all.

Developing this behavior in your dog just takes careful, thorough practice with gradual progression. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial that will help you get your dog café-ready:

Teaching your Dog To Hold the Down (an Implied Down-Stay)

Some dogs tend to pop up out of the down once they’ve collected their treat. The way to work on this is to give little morsels, one after the other, in quick succession as long as your dog remains in the down. If your dog gets up, mark with an “uh-uh” and the treats stop. Ask for a down again and start treat after treat again. Little by little, increase the time between treats, using soft verbal encouragement to bridge the gap between treats. Periodically allow your dog to break the down with the release word “OK!” and encourage him to get up, but don’t give him a food treat. This way he’s learning that being in the down is rewarding, getting up is not. Gradually work on you being able to stand between treats without your dog getting up. Also do the exercise while you’re in a seated position.

A Tip: When working on sedentary exercises like these, it’s best if your dog has already had a bit of exercise and is ready for some quiet time. When he’s fresh first thing in the morning, he’s going to be raring to go and in no mood for holding a down-stay.

Next Steps: Proofing

Duration: Remember to build on duration gradually… don’t expect him to hold the down for a half an hour right from the start. Start with 5 or 10 seconds, gradually increasing it. If you notice that he’s frequently breaking from the down before you’ve released him, you may be expecting too much of him; cut back on duration. Set him up for success.

Distance: Start incorporating some movement into the exercise. These are really exercises in proofing a stay without the use of the word: With your dog in a down, back away a step, then come back to treat. Turn a quarter turn, then a half turn so that he sees your backside, then turn back and come back to treat. Step to the side; do a little hop; walk part way around him – but build gradually. Again, set him up for success!

Distraction: At this point, you should be able to stand or sit with your dog beside you, giving occasional treats and bridging with some verbal encouragement. Change venues: practice in different rooms of the house, or in the hallway of your apartment building.

A Tip: With each jump in difficulty, you need to reward your dog more frequently.

Taking It On the Road

With your dog’s meal in your pocket, take a walk together. Periodically find a place to stop, ask your dog for a down, and start feeding him his kibble. After a short time, say “OK, let’s go!” and resume your walk. For a hungry dog, the stops along the way will be a very welcome snack. Sit on a park bench, a neighbor’s stoop, anywhere you can find a spot. Start with quieter byways and build gradually to streets more active with people, dogs, and traffic.

A Tip: Remember that the outside world is way more distracting than your nice quiet home, so reward very frequently. If necessary, mix something really yummy in with his kibble, or use something altogether better.

Travels with Trista

These days I take Trista everywhere, on trips across the country involving boat ferries, horse-drawn carriages, motels and shops that allow dogs and, of course, sidewalk cafés. She can go so many places with me precisely because she is a pleasure to be with and around: she lies quietly beside me, bothers no one by soliciting attention or making noise, tolerates the unexpected with grace, and seems happy just to be included. And our relationship is deepened precisely because of the mutual respect we have for each other and because we can share so much together.

With patient, thorough work, this is the life you can share with your dog, too. He is a café companion in the ruff!

LAURA GARBER, CPDT, is a certified dog trainer and behavior counselor living in Hoboken, NJ. Her company WoofGang, LLC is committed to deepening the bonds between dogs and their people through positive training and behavior modification techniques, and it is these same topics that inspire her writing. Write her with questions at Laura@myWoofGang.com. Reprinted with permission by WoofGang, LLC

Dog Service Network, LLC » Going To Dog Friendly Places

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