Just like people, every dog experiences storms differently—some may barely notice the rumble while others turn into nervous wrecks at the first distant boom.

My sweet Ziva struggled terribly with thunder, fireworks—really, any loud noise. It was heartbreaking to watch her tremble and try to escape the booming sounds. When her fear took over, she would chew through walls, jump fences, and even try to leap out windows in pure panic. We tried so many things that helped a little, but it was always a challenge to keep her safe from herself during those panicked moments.

Thankfully, there are now better medications available through your vet for dogs who suffer this severely. But for dogs with milder anxiety—or for young pups you want to gently prepare—I’ve put together a list of tips and ideas to help them feel calmer and more confident during storms.

Disclaimer: I am not a vet or behaviorist. If your dog’s behavior is severe consult a licensed professional to help guide you guide them through their anxiety.

---

Let’s start with the basics:

Create a Safe Space

Set up a quiet retreat in your home’s calmest room—like a closet, bathroom, or basement. Close windows and curtains to soften noise and flashes. Add comfy bedding and favorite toys. Some dogs feel safer in covered spaces like a crate with a blanket over it (if they’re already crate-trained and find it calming).

Turn on Background Noise

Mask the thunder by turning on the TV, a calming playlist, white noise machine, or even a loud fan. The goal is to make the storm less noticeable and give their mind something else to focus on.

Stay Calm Yourself

Dogs are super in tune with us—if you’re stressed, they’ll pick up on it. Speak softly, move slowly, and act like the storm is no big deal. Your calm confidence can help reassure them.

Use Calming Products

Over-the-counter calming treats, CBD products, pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil), or anxiety wraps (like Thundershirts) can help take the edge off. Every dog responds differently, so you may need to experiment to see what soothes yours best.

Talk to Your Vet About Medications

For dogs like my Ziva, whose fear is extreme and dangerous, prescription medications from your vet can be life-changing. Newer anti-anxiety meds are more effective and faster-acting than those available years ago, and they can truly make storms safer for severely anxious dogs.

---

More Advanced: Working to Eliminate the Fear

Desensitization & Counter-Conditioning: Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Storms

One of the most effective ways to help your dog overcome thunderstorm anxiety—especially if they are young or only mildly fearful—is through a gradual training process called desensitization and counter-conditioning. It takes time and patience but can build real confidence and reduce fear responses.

Here’s how to do it, step by step:

1. Start with Sound Recordings

Use high-quality thunderstorm soundtracks (YouTube has many, or you can find apps specifically made for this purpose). The key is to start at a very low volume—so quiet that your dog barely notices the sound and doesn’t react fearfully.

2. Pair the Sound with Something Positive

While the storm sounds play softly, give your dog high-value treats (something they don’t get every day like small bits of cheese or chicken) or engage them in a favorite game or toy. You want them to form a new, positive association with the sound of thunder.

3. Keep Sessions Short and Sweet

Training sessions should last less than 5 minutes and always end on a positive note. If your dog shows any sign of anxiety—like lip licking, yawning, pacing, or leaving the room—the volume is too high. Stop, lower the volume, and try again later.

4. Gradually Increase the Volume

Over several days or weeks (depending on your dog), slowly increase the volume as long as your dog stays relaxed and engaged with the treats or toy. Never rush this step—progress at your dog’s comfort level. Some dogs may take weeks or even months, and that’s okay!

5. Add Realistic Elements

Once your dog tolerates the sounds at a normal level, you can add other elements that usually come with storms, like flashing lights from a flashlight (simulating lightning), a fan (to simulate wind), or darkening the room. Always pair these additions with positive rewards.

6. Generalize to Real Life

When real storms come, have your treats or toys ready to reinforce calm behavior. Over time, many dogs will start to see storms as “no big deal” because they’ve been conditioned to expect good things when they hear thunder.

Important Notes:

✔️ Stay patient and consistent—this is a slow process, but it truly works.
✔️ Never force your dog to “face their fear” if they are panicking; this can make things worse.
✔️ If your dog has severe thunder phobia, consult a veterinary behaviorist who can guide this process and possibly recommend medication support.

---

When to Call for Help

If your dog’s anxiety is severe—causing destructive behavior, self-injury, or overwhelming fear—talk to your veterinarian or a certified behaviorist. There are wonderful resources and professionals who can help.

Remember:

You’re not alone if your dog fears storms—it’s a common struggle for many families. With the right tools, patience, and support, you can help your pup feel safer when the skies get loud.

---

📝 Thunderstorm Anxiety Prep Checklist

• Up-to-date ID tags & microchip.
• Safe, quiet retreat set up.
• Calming aids ready (treats, Thundershirt, pheromones)
• Sound distractions prepped (TV, white noise, music)
• Storm desensitization plan started.
• Vet consult if severe fear is present.

Summer in New England is made for adventure—road trips, hiking trails, lazy lake days, and backyard barbecues with our best furry friends by our side. But as fun as the season is, it also comes with a few summer safety concerns dog parents need to watch out for.

Don’t worry—this isn’t meant to stress you out or keep you inside. With just a little extra awareness, you and your pup can enjoy every summer day with confidence.

Here’s some summer situations to keep in mind while you and your pup are adventuring!

---

Extreme Heat

This one is obvious, but it bears repeating. Summer temperatures can sneak up fast. Even on a seemingly mild day, the inside of a car can reach dangerous levels in just minutes—so never leave your dog unattended, even for a quick errand. Plan walks early in the morning or later in the evening when sidewalks are cooler, and always bring water along to keep your dog hydrated.

You can also check out my blog on fun ways to keep your pup occupied during the steamiest of summer days here.

---

Travel Safety

Whether it’s a road trip to the mountains or a weekend on the Cape, make sure your dog is buckled in with a crash-tested harness or riding safely in a secured crate. Pack familiar items like a blanket or toy to make them feel more at home, and double-check pet policies for hotels or campsites in advance. A little planning makes travel smoother and safer for everyone.

---

Hurricane & Storm Preparedness

Summer storm season in New England brings not only the risk of hurricanes and power outages but also plenty of booming thunderstorms that can be terrifying for some dogs. Now’s a great time to update your dog’s ID tags and microchip info and review your evacuation route in case Hurricane Dexter, Imelda or Karen decides to make it’s way up here to New England.

Thankfully, serious hurricanes are unlikely here in New England, but we still have plenty of loud summer storms ahead. So it’s just as important to have a plan for the upcoming thunderstorm (and fireworks) season.

If your pup is nervous during storms, try setting them up in the quietest, most secure room in the house—an interior bathroom, closet, or basement often works best. Leave the TV or radio on to provide some background noise and help muffle thunder claps. OTC calming treats, pheromone diffusers, or a snug-fitting Thundershirt can also ease anxiety for mild to moderate cases. For dogs with severe storm fears, talk to your vet about prescription anti-anxiety medication as part of their safety plan.

Another helpful approach is desensitization. You can gently introduce your dog to the sounds of storms by playing recorded thunderstorm tracks at a very low volume during calm times—while offering super yummy treats so they associate the noise with good things. Slowly, over days or weeks, you can increase the volume as they stay relaxed. This kind of practice can help reduce panic when real storms roll in.

You can read a more in-depth blog post on thunderstorm fears and dealing with them here.

---

Blue-Green Algae Dangers

Some New England lakes and ponds are prone to blue-green algae blooms in summer, which can be deadly if your dog drinks the water or even licks their fur after swimming. If you see green scum, strange discoloration, or the water smells bad—stay out. After any swim in a natural body of water, rinse your dog thoroughly to wash off potential contaminants.

A friend recently told me about these kits that test for blue-green algae. Disclaimer, I haven’t personally used them, so use caution around any suspicious bodies of water this summer.

---

Water Intoxication

Believe it or not, dogs can drink too much water—especially when they’re fetching toys in the lake or pool for long stretches. When dogs swallow excessive water, it can throw off their sodium balance, leading to dangerous water intoxication. Keep play sessions in the water short, and give your dog breaks to rest and shake off.

---

Insect Stings & Bites

Summer bugs aren’t just annoying for humans—they can cause real problems for dogs, too. Ticks, mosquitoes, bees, and wasps are all out in full force. Keep your dog on a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventative, and give them a thorough once-over after walks in grassy or wooded areas. If your dog is stung and shows signs of swelling or difficulty breathing, seek vet care right away.

---

Summer Pet Adventure Checklist:

For Every Outing:

✔️ Collar with ID tags (and updated microchip info)
✔️ Leash (plus a spare—just in case!)
✔️ Poop bags
✔️ Water bowl & fresh water
✔️ Treats or snacks (for rewards or trail energy)
✔️ Favorite toy or chew (for car rides or relaxing)
✔️ Towel (for drying off after swimming or muddy fun)
✔️ Blanket or travel mat (for shady resting or picnics)

For Longer Adventures or Hikes:

(all of the above plus)

✔️ Portable dog-friendly first aid kit
✔️ Collapsible food bowl & meals (if away during feeding times)
✔️ Bug repellent wipes or spray (safe for dogs)
✔️ Paw balm (for hot pavement or rocky trails)
✔️ Cooling vest, bandana, or mat (for extra warm days)
✔️ Dog booties (if hiking on rough or hot surfaces)

---

A little preparation makes all the difference—so you and your dog can soak up every day trip, hike, and backyard gathering without worry. And remember, after a long, cozy winter spent napping on the couch (for both us and our pups!), it’s tempting to jump right into big summer adventures. But just like us, our dogs need a little time to ease back into shape. Start with shorter walks or play sessions to rebuild stamina and gently strengthen muscles before tackling those epic hikes or all-day outings. A gradual ramp-up keeps them happy, healthy, and ready for a season full of tail-wagging fun!

Believe, Asher and I have some super fun plans for the next few months with plenty of hiking, swimming and camping planned! So let’s all stay safe, stay smart, and have an unforgettable summer full of wagging tails and happy memories! Be sure to share plenty of photos so we can all share in your summer fun!

Thinking about booking a professional portrait session for your dog but have some doubts? You’re not alone! Let’s bust the three biggest myths about dog photography so you can stop worrying and start getting excited!

Myth #1: My dog needs to be perfectly trained for a portrait session.

Fact: Nope! Your dog just needs to be themselves. Whether they know every trick in the book or think “sit” is optional, I work with dogs of all energy levels and personalities. I don’t expect dogs to be perfectly posed the whole time—that’s just not realistic. Action shots, candid moments, and playful zoomies all make for incredible images. Some of the most authentic, personality-filled images come from dogs just being their goofy, lovable selves.

And since 95% of the dogs I photograph are ON LEASH for the entire session (and then the leashes are edited out later), there is NO training requirement for an fun, amazing portrait session

Myth #2: My senior dog is too old for a photoshoot.

Fact: Some of the most emotional and meaningful sessions I capture are with senior dogs. These sessions celebrate the deep bond you’ve built over the years and ensure you’ll have timeless images to cherish forever. Senior dogs get priority scheduling and we make sure the location we choose takes into consideration any mobility challenges your senior may have. Older dogs may move a little slower, but that just gives us more time to soak in the moment and create something truly special.

Myth #3: I already have tons of photos on my phone—I don’t need professional ones.

Fact: We all have hundreds (okay, thousands) of dog photos on our phones, but let’s be honest—how many of them are actually frame-worthy? When is the last time you’ve looked at them? A professional session goes beyond quick snapshots. It captures your dog’s personality, your bond, and the little moments you never want to forget in a way that phone photos just can’t. Plus, you’ll finally have stunning images in your home that you’ll see and enjoy every day! Much better than being buried in your camera roll.

---

A session with your dog isn’t about perfection—it’s about preserving the moments that matter most. Ready to capture your story? Let’s chat!

Spring dates now booking!

Let’s face it, perfection is overrated. And impossible to achieve. Our dogs are so lucky, they don’t lay awake at night brooding over the extra pound they’re carrying or that mom isn’t too happy that they rolled in that slightly smelly thing in the yard. They’ve embraced their perfectly imperfect status 💖

I’ve had the privilege of capturing all kinds of tail-wagging mayhem in my 15+ years as a professional pet photographer. From dogs who will try to convince you that they’ve NEVER heard the word “sit” before to those who’ve mastered the art of zoomies. And guess what? It’s precisely these quirks that make our four-legged friends such rockstars! And why I have the best job in the world!

---

Real-life Moments, Real-life Love

In my sessions, perfection takes a back seat to authenticity. I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless moments that encapsulate the quirky, wild, and wonderfully imperfect nature of our canine companions. It’s these unique qualities that make each dog a star in their own right.

From the dogs who treat “stay” like a distant relative and others who believe “fetch” is just a fancy game of keep-away. Forget the script – it’s the unscripted chaos that steals the show.

Championing the Unpredictable

A session without unpredictability is like a hotdog without mustard – bland and missing the kick. The goofy expressions, the sudden sprints, and the little bit of naughtiness make for images that aren’t just pictures; they’re a storybook of a canine’s character.

Let’s bark down those stereotypes that say a “perfect” dog fits a certain mold. In my world, every dog is a superstar, whether they’re a drama queen, a goofball, or the class clown.

So many potential clients feel they have to wait until their dog is “better behaved”, or can be off-leash or “calms down”. And none of those are true. Almost none of the dogs I have photographed in my career are obedience stars or even had much training at all. Most of them are “perfectly imperfect” – great dogs who occasionally raid the trash or chew a shoe or run off in the middle of a session after a rabbit 🐰.

They’re dogs! They’re expected to act like dogs – be a little (or a LOT) crazy, pull on leash, bark their fool heads off just “because”. I didn’t get into this career to photograph robots (I don’t trust robots, even robot dogs, tell me that “dog” will cuddle with you on the couch… ). Your session will be one of laughter, action and slobbery kisses. So don’t wait to schedule a session for your pet – let’s capture all the chaos that makes you love them so much.

Your Dog is Perfect for the Camera – Just as They Are

To all the awesome pet parents out there, your dog is a star in the making – no auditions required. No need to wait for the stars to align or for your furry friend to become a canine Einstein. So, here’s to celebrating the perfectly imperfect, embracing the mayhem, and capturing the essence of your furry partner in crime. Ready? Let’s turn your furry rockstar into a frame-worthy legend.

---

Here’s to the tail-wagging, tongue-lolling, laughter-inducing journey of photographing your unapologetically awesome canine buddies. 📸🐶

Donna

---

Have a reactive or really shy dog? Click here to read a blog on how I design special sessions just for them. Focusing on their comfort and safety at all times.

Welcome to the wild, wiggly, and wonderfully chaotic world of puppy parenthood. You’ve decided to dive headfirst into the land of wagging tails, floppy ears, and slobbery kisses. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In addition to being a pet photographer, I have 20+ years training puppies to be beloved family members. Here are my top five no-nonsense tips to help you survive and thrive during those first few puppy-filled months.

Yes, that adorable puppy ⬇⬇ is mine. This is just a portion of what a young puppy left out of a crate can accomplish in a short period of time…. In my defense, I did put him in his crate, I just apparently forgot to latch the door 😭. Thankfully he didn’t get into anything dangerous, there was just a LOT of cleanup. Which brings me to tip #1 below.

1. Crate Training: Your Pup’s Cozy Den

Let’s talk about crate training—a game-changer for both you and your pup. Picture it as your pup’s personal den—a safe space where they can retreat, rest, and recharge. While some might think it’s like sending them to puppy jail, it’s actually a tool for structure and comfort.

Why It Matters

It’s their safe haven. Dogs are den animals, so a crate becomes their natural den. It’s a spot where they can escape from the hustle and bustle when life gets busy.

It makes potty training 1000x easier. Puppies avoid soiling their living area, so a properly sized crate can help puppies learn to “hold it”. This helps minimize accidents. And when you take them out to do their business after leaving the crate, and they’ll quickly catch on.

It gives you peace of mind when they’re home alone (remember what that kid got into in the movie….) When you’re away, a crate ensures your pup’s safety. No unexpected surprises for you when you return, and no accidental destruction or potential injuries for them.

Crate-trained pups make traveling and any vet stays less stressful. They have a familiar space on the road and won’t have their first crate experience be when they’re sick or injured at the vet.

Remember, crate training isn’t about locking your pup away—it’s about providing a secure space for them to call their own. Done right, it’s a valuable tool for their safety, your sanity, and their overall happiness. And it will make all the following challenges easier 😊

2. Embrace the Chewmageddon: Channel It, Don’t Fight It

Let’s cut to the chase: puppies chew. A lot. Your furniture, your shoes, that important paper you thought was out of reach—it’s all fair game. No object is safe from their tiny, razor-sharp teeth. Instead of pulling out your hair (or what’s left of it), the key here is management. Keeping your puppy safely confined when you can’t watch them (see Crate Training 101 above) and invest in LOTS of puppy-safe chew toys. These little lifesavers will keep your pup’s dental health in check while saving your valuables from becoming their next midnight snack.

3. Potty Training: Where Accidents Happen… Everywhere

Ah, the magical world of potty training. Just as babies take time (YEARS in their case) to potty train, so do puppies (not years, thankfully). Yes, accidents will happen, LOTS of them. No, your pup isn’t trying to make your life miserable. Puppies physically can’t “hold it” for very long. Their bladders are small and their muscles aren’t fully developed yet.

Be vigilant, schedule regular potty breaks, and celebrate when they finally do their business outside. When you catch them mid-accident, don’t freak out. Just scoop them up, take them outside and reward them handsomely for going in the right place. Then make sure you clean up any accidents with an enzyme cleaner from the pet store so your puppy doesn’t get confused and go back to that spot as an alternative potty 🧻.

4. Socialization: Your Pup’s Passport to the World

What is socialization? Simply put, it’s introducing them to the world around them. The people, places and experiences in this big world of ours that they may not have experienced before. Sounds, like sirens or vacuum cleaners. Objects, like umbrellas or strollers. Encounters, like bicycles or people wearing hats. Show them it’s all part of life.

Early positive exposure to various sights, sounds, and situations helps your pup become more confident and less likely to develop fears or aggression later on. But it has to be done right! Which means at their pace! Your puppy needs to be happy and excited by these new experiences or you can actually make your puppy more fearful. So go slow. Take it at your pup’s pace. Always make it positive, using treats and praise to make these experiences happy ones. If they’re overwhelmed, back off and try again later. Remember, socialization is about building positive associations, not pushing them into discomfort.

Embrace this adventure of showing your pup the world, and you’ll reap the rewards of a confident, well-behaved, and utterly charming four-legged friend.

5. Training: Treats, Tricks, and Tons of Patience

Enrolling your puppy in a positive reinforcement-based puppy class can be a vital source of support on your journey with your puppy. We’ll help you teach your pup the basics—including the essential “leave it” (for your puppy who’s into everything all the time). As well as identify and help you solve any struggles your puppy may be having.

In my classes we use clicker training to teach all the basic cues along with a puppy play time to help with their socialization and play skills. Just remember to do your research and sit in on a class before you enroll to ensure they’re using science-based positive training techniques and not any methods that are harsh or heavy-handed.

You can search for positive trainers in your area here.

---

There you have it, new pup parents! Remember, every puppy is a unique ball of energy and fluff, so go easy on yourself. With a healthy dose of patience, a sprinkle of humor, and the ability to find joy in the midst of chewed-up shoes, you’ll be a pup parent extraordinaire in no time. So buckle up, enjoy the ride, and get ready for a lifetime of unconditional love and unlimited belly rubs. Woof, you’ve got this! 🐾

Are you a pet parent with a reactive dog? Or one who’s very shy or anxious? Would you love to have beautiful artwork of your beloved pet in your home but are worried about how your dog would behave during a portrait session? Whether the photographer could even work with your dog? Or even worse, would judge you for your dog’s behavior?

Today, I want to share with you why choosing a pet photographer who understands reactive, shy or anxious dogs can make a world of difference in creating a stress-free and truly remarkable experience. I’m a pet photographer and positive dog trainer. I have decades of personal experience living with and training reactive, shy and anxious dogs. I understand the challenges you face because I’ve lived them. Let me share with you why choosing a photographer who has a lot of experience working with scared and reactive dogs is the best decision for capturing unforgettable moments with your best friend.

This was my super sound-sensitive, reactive girl, Ziva. She taught me so much and made me not only a better dog trainer, but a better pet photographer. She was flight risk, so our sessions were always ON LEASH and in quiet locations.

So what do you and your dog need in a pet photographer?

1. Empathy and Understanding for your Reactive Dog’s Needs

Reactive dogs require extra patience, care, and sensitivity. Working with a pet photographer who owns and works with reactive dogs ensures they empathize with your situation. I understand the unique challenges and can create a safe, stress-free environment for your furry friend to relax and be themselves. This leads to authentic and remarkable images that truly reflect your pet’s personality.

2. Specialized Techniques to Keep Everyone Safe and Happy

Photographing reactive, shy or anxious dogs requires a specialized approach. My experience with positive reinforcement techniques, redirection strategies and body language cues will keep your dog calm and comfortable during the session. This expertise guarantees stunning photos even with super “challenging” dogs.

3. Safe and Controlled Environment that Protects your Reactive Dog

When you choose a pet photographer who understands reactive dogs, you’re selecting someone who prioritizes the safety and well-being of your pet above all else. I will take the necessary precautions to create a controlled environment, minimizing triggers and potential stressors. Your pet’s safety and comfort is paramount. I’ll design your session with your dog’s safety and comfort in mind – from selecting a suitable, quiet location, letting your dog set the pace and allowing your dog to be securely leashed for their entire session (with leashes magically edited out for your final artwork).

4. Collaboration and Customization to Design your Perfect Session

Working with a photographer who understands reactive dogs means collaborating with someone who values your input. I listen to your concerns, preferences, and goals, and tailor the experience to your dog’s needs. Your dog always comes first during our session. This ensures that the photos reflect your dog’s individuality and personality. We capture the dog you know they are inside, not the sometimes stressed, reactive dog that the world sometimes sees.

Remember, capturing these precious moments with your dog is not just about the final images but the joy and memories that come with them. So, don’t hesitate to seek out a pet photographer who not only has the technical skills but also firsthand experience with reactive dogs. They will go above and beyond to ensure your pet feels comfortable, loved and is beautifully captured in each and every photograph. And you will have beautiful artwork from your day that will bring you joy every time you look at it.

Would you like more information about designing the perfect session for your dog? You can check out my Session Guide for more information or Contact Me for more information.

which honestly, is every day around here…

It’s so easy to take for granted the gifts that our furry four-legged companions bring into our lives — from their unconditional love to those unforgettable moments of pure joy and fun they share with us. While we all have our endless “to do” lists and responsibilities pulling us in a million different directions, National Love Your Pet Day (which just happens to be today, Feb. 20) is the perfect occasion to go all out to show our pets just how much we treasure them.

This year one of my dogs is approaching the end of his days. My boy, Twister, has seen me through so much through the years, brought me boundless joy and has the absolute biggest heart. And while love can’t stop the inevitable I will make every moment count with my bestest boy. So for this Love Your Pet Day I am giving him a day filled with all the special things I can squish into 24 hours.

So what would your pet like most for Love Your Pet Day? Special treats, an extra long walk, more belly rubs? Let’s get creative and make this an extra-special occasion. I’ve come up with a few ideas for my dogs, so let’s pamper them in style:

• Bake them some special treats (or buy them if you’re not all that great in the kitchen…).
• Check out a new hiking spot.
• Keep them company all day long (a perfect excuse for a day off work in my opinion).
• Take a road trip for a pup cup or a doggie ice cream (don’t forget something for yourself too)
• Hit the beach for a romp with some doggie friends.
• Donate to a shelter or animal charity to help dogs who haven’t found their person yet.
• Take them out to a dog-friendly brewery or restaurant for your celebration.
• Let them choose the show to watch on TV.
• Take them to the pet store to pick out a new toy.
• Extra cuddles!

However you choose to spend today, I hope you and your favorite four-legged family member have an amazing day!

1. Make sure to monitor your dog around Christmas trees, Menorahs and other decorations. Puppies, especially, are curious creatures and they love to investigate new things. Many years my Christmas tree was surrounded by an x-pen to keep it upright and the ornaments safe. Thankfully, my dogs have outgrown tree destruction, but be especially careful with your young dog.

2. Keep toxic plants out of reach. Many common holiday plants including holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and lilies can make your pets sick, some seriously. If you’re decorating with these plants, be sure to keep them out of reach of your pet or choose safer alternatives.

3. Don’t leave your dog alone with visiting children, especially if your dog is not used to them. Excited children can unintentionally hurt or scare dogs. If you have young children visiting during the holidays, make sure they know how to approach and interact with dogs safely and supervise closely. And make sure to give your dog breaks in a safe place, like their crate, where no one can bother them.

4. Be careful with holiday food and treats. Dogs are often tempted by tasty holiday foods but many of these can be dangerous for them. Pan drippings, uncooked bread dough, chocolate, raisins, grapes and onions can land your dog in the emergency vet. Who wants that on the holidays? Stick to their regular food and treats instead.

5. Keep an eye on alcohol consumption (no, not on Aunt Minnie’s, well, maybe hers too 🍷🍺🍹). Dogs can be sensitive to alcohol and it can make them very sick (again who wants a sick dog on the holiday 🤮. So be sure to keep alcoholic drinks well out of reach.

6. Make sure to make special time just for you and your dogs. A nice long walk, a run in the park or even just a snuggle on the couch are a perfect holiday tradition 💗

Happy Holidays to all!

1. Go exploring. As your dog gets older, they may not be able to handle long walks or runs like they used to. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy some quality time together outdoors. Take things slow and let them stop to smell the roses (ok, the pee mail, but same concept 🐶). Check out some new trails or neighborhoods. This is a great way to get some exercise while also stimulating their senses with new sights and smells.

2. Play brain games. Just like people, dogs can benefit from a good mental workout. Try hiding treats around the house and giving them a little scavenger hunt. Or get a puzzle toy that encourages them to think critically in order to get the reward. I love this shaping game to keep my dogs mentally sharp and tire them out in the bad weather when outdoor activity might be limited.

3. Take them with you when you run errands around town (weather permitting of course). I like to take my dogs to Marketstreet Lynnfield, an outdoor mall with dozens of stores that welcome dogs and a Polkadog bakery to pick up some awesome treats. Or grab them a “puppuccino” at your local coffee shop while you grab your morning coffee. Not only are these fun activities to do together, but it’s also a great way to socialize your senior dog — something that’s important for dogs of all ages.

4. Have some “senior playdates.” While most senior dogs have no interest in hitting the dog park (it’s kinda like the club scene for dogs and most of our seniors have outgrown that craziness). But getting together with their doggie friends is still important. My dogs love romping on the beach or in the woods with their dog and human friends This will give your dog a chance to keep fit and have some fun.

5. Teach them some new tricks (or brush up on old ones). Dogs of all ages love learning — and it’s never too late to start! Whether you teach them how to roll over or simply brush up on their basic training, teaching your old dog some new tricks is a great way to keep their minds sharp as they age. Not only that, but it gives you both something fun and rewarding to focus on together—and who knows, maybe you’ll even end up impressing your friends and family in the process!

What do you and your old dog like to do together? Drop your favorite idea in the comments, Twister is always looking for more fun stuff to do 😊. So let’s get out there and have some fun with our long-time friends. They’ll love us even more for it!

The holidays are a wonderful time to spend with family and friends, and many of us like to include our furry family members in the festivities. As we approach the busiest travel week of the year, I thought I would share my top 3 tips to make traveling with your dog this holiday season as stress-free and happy as possible.

1. Get Your Dog Used to the Car
If your dog isn’t used to riding in the car, start by taking them on short trips around town before embarking on a longer journey. This will help them get used to the car and make sure they’re comfortable. If your dog seems nervous or anxious, try playing calming music or trying one of the many natural calming products to make their journey more enjoyable. A crate or doggie seatbelt is a good way to keep your dog contained, secure and safe while driving.

2. Pack Their Favorite Things
When packing for your trip, don’t forget to include your dog’s favorite toys, blanket, and treats. Bringing along their crate will give them a safe place to rest and recover for all the festivities. This will help them feel more at home in an unfamiliar environment and make the trip more enjoyable for both of you. Also, be sure to pack plenty of food and water—nothing will put a damper on your holiday fun faster than an upset tummy from different food and water 🤢🤮

3. Plan Your Stops Ahead of Time
When traveling with your dog, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure there are plenty of rest stops along the way so they can stretch their legs, have a drink of water, and potty. A little planning goes a long way towards making a road trip with your furry friend stress-free and enjoyable for everyone involved.

We hope these tips are helpful as you prepare to hit the road with your furry friend this holiday season! Remember, if you take the time to plan ahead, you’re sure to have a stress-free trip that everyone—two-legged and four alike—will enjoy. Happy holidays!