You Know What I Mean

How many of you can tell exactly what your dog is thinking, with just a bark or certain wag of the tail?  This is a special language between man and man’s best friend that only they understand.  It could be as simple as the change in a bark.  When someone arrives at your home and when the dog wants a snack, the bark is noticeably different.  I have one friend that can tell her mom that she needs to go outside with just a paw.  The tail of a dog says so much if you just pay attention.  When your dogs’ tails are going crazy when you get home, you know they are excited to see you.  When their tails start swinging after you ask them a question, you know that means “yes”.  Don’t forget to pay attention to the eyes.  They show you that they are listening to hear and understand everything that you are saying.  It is amazing how great of a conversation you can have with a creature that does not speak a traditional word at all.  Listen to what your best friend has to say--you will be amazed!!  Love…Scout!!

Part of the Family

How many of you have to find vacation accommodations that allow pets so the all the family members can attend?  I bet this is a “yes” for most of you.  When planning your summer vacation, it is simple to make these plans.  Oftentimes lodging websites have it posted if it is a pet-friendly location.  If it is not listed, be sure to confirm when booking your reservations.  You don’t want to be miles and miles away from home and not be able to bring your pet in.  You also need to prepare for travel and room arrangements for your pet.  Be sure to pack bowls, food, leash, kennel or any other comforts of home that will make your pet’s trip comfortable.   I hope you all have great summer vacations and enjoy every minute with the whole family.  Love…Scout!!

The Doggie Paddle

The pool is not just for people anymore.  With all the hot weather here in Texas, staying cool is very important.  Most dogs love to be in the water.  They can even teach a human a thing or two... "The Doggie Paddle".  I know that not everyone has a full size pool in their back yard, but there are options to provide cool water for your pet.  A plastic kiddie pool is perfect for the dogs.  It is just deep enough for large dogs to cover themselves when they lie down.  Some of my small dog friends like to use the water bowl.  You can use a slightly larger bowl for the water giving them just enough room to jump in and cool off.  Stay Cool!!...Scout

The Dates Have Been Set

The dates have been set for the Scout musical this December.  Mark your calendars for November 30 and December 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9.  “The Dog Who Saved The Nutcracker” will be presented at the downtown Plaza Theater.  This is a wonderful time to come out and watch the story come to life.  I want to invite each of you to join the fun as a cast member or many other important jobs of the production.  More information will be available as we get closer.  I am looking forward to watching the story move from the page to the stage! …Scout

The End Is Here

It is really hard to believe that the school year is over.  Time goes by so quickly.  It is important to stay active and keep reading during the summer.   Most communities have a number of activities to keep kids busy and safe.  The YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club and the local libraries do a really great job with summer programming.  These places offer a safe environment for children to continue to learn and stay active over the summer.  Check it out in your town and have a great summer!!!

Scout….

Hot, Hot, Hot!!!!

With temperatures rising all the time, it is very important to remember your pets.  I have provided a few tips for you to use this summer.

Warm Weather Pet Care Tips

*Do not leave your pet in a parked vehicle at any time

*Decrease exercise levels on hot, humid days

*Take morning or evening walks

*Provide shade and shelter for outdoor pets

*Provide cool, fresh water

*Provide adequate ventilation in kennels or carriers

Signs of heat exhaustion & heat stroke

*Excessive, heavy panting

*High fever

*Rapid heartbeat

*Weakness

I hope you have a great summer.

(Seasonal Pet Care Tips from S.P.O.T,)

Scout….

Birthday Bash

Last year I celebrated my 10th birthday.  I was blessed to have an awesome party with "dog" ice cream and many, many great friends.  You can check out my Facebook page for pictures.  There are a number of things you can do to celebrate with your pet.  Buster, a close friend of mine, had a special sausage cake his mom made for him.  I bet it was great.  There are a number of recipes that are just for dogs.  Try the recipe below for your four legged friend.

"Good Dog" Biscuits (for your canine pal)
2 1/2 to 3 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup dry powdered milk
1 cup wheat germ
4 eggs, beaten
4 (2.5 oz.) jars baby food (all alike-beef, chicken, sweet potato, etc.)
1 egg, beaten

Mix together dry powered milk and wheat germ in a large bowl.  Add 4 beaten eggs and 4 jars baby food; mix well.  Add flour (1/2 cup at a time), mixing well after each addition.  Continue to add flour until a dough forms.  Roll out with rolling pin (about 1/4-inch thick); use cookie cutters and/or pizza wheel to cut out shapes.  Place biscuits on greased cookie sheets and then brush biscuits with beaten egg.  Bake at 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown; makes approximately 4 dozen treats.