Having been involved in the pit bull community for nearly seven years, I’ve heard over and over again how pit bulls are denied the pleasures of attending dog daycare.  Most are never even met by the daycare operators, but turned away on the phone with excuses like, “they’re too vicious” or “too unpredictable.” There were some daycares that welcomed pit bulls, but limited the number that could attend on any given day. I suppose that given the hype surrounding these dogs, it’s not surprising to hear these reactions.

When I opened my dog daycare in January 2010, it never occurred to me to limit who could join in on the fun.  I obviously had the same criteria as other daycares: the dog must be social with dogs, with no aggression towards people. Given my earliest clientele and existing client base, it became clear that I was going to “specialize” in large breed dogs, although my doors are always open to everyone willing to give it a try.  Louis the French Bulldog, and Joey and Dexter the Boston Terriers can easily keep up with the “big boys” and come regularly!

As a small business owner, I did have one small concern: how would my non-pit bull clients feel about their dogs playing with a group of pit bulls for hours?  Many tend to rely on what they hear in the media and – lets face it – when it comes to these dogs, it’s rarely positive. I figured it was a chance worth taking, and if it meant my only clients were pit bulls, then so be it.

It’s been a year since the daycare opened. I have a wonderful clientele of all breeds of dogs: Charlie the Labradoodle, Bogey the Great Dane, Gus the boxer mix, Louis, Dexter and Joey – and many, many pit bulls.

I’m often asked if it’s challenging having a daycare full of “those dogs”. Not surprising I suppose, especially since the breed is often known for their dog aggression. My answer is simply, “no.” Maybe because I have nothing to compare it to, or perhaps I’m just realistic about my expectations. I know enough about pit bulls to know that the company of other dogs is usually not their first choice; therefore I have lots of areas for downtime. I realize they require supervision at all times when playing with other dogs, and I also understand the need for clear direction and boundaries so that their play experience is always a positive one.

I am happy and honoured to share my daycare space with pit bulls of all shapes and sizes. All dogs – and all breeds – that come through my doors bring me days of endless joy, laughter, and most of all a learning experience like none other.

So, I figured why not get started on my blog after a long weekend vacation?  One that I spent doing nothing but relaxing and recharging the brain as well as the body.   And of course one spent with my dogs, hiking trails and playing in the ocean.

Vacations for me these days are so few and far between, but when they do arrive, they almost always include my fur family.  I can’t think of any other way to spend a relaxing holiday than having Bailey and Bugsy tagging along getting to enjoy the sights and sounds of a new adventure.  This last trip Bailey settled in like a trooper, easily adjusting to the new surroundings, and different routine.  Bugsy however was a little less relaxed.  Not having had him that long, it is very possible this was a first for him on many accounts.  First long road trip.  First view of the ocean.  First time hiking through the woods.  While he wasn’t as relaxed as his canine sibling, he took everything in stride, and trusted me to guide him through each encounter.  All in all he did pretty well.

Traveling with dogs can often be a bit hectic.  Making sure you pack everything you’ll need; food, blankets, leashes; beds, etc, can be quite daunting. Dogs almost need their own suitcase.  There are few things we often don’t think of packing, but they are things that can often make the trip a little less stressful.

- Bring a dog first aid kit; gauze, wrap, polysporin, clean wipes, and anything else you thing might be helpful.  While we hope injuries never happen when we’re away, it’s nice to be prepared if they do.

- Make sure to bring Kongs so that you can fill them with treats/kibble to help keep them occupied while on the road, or in the hotel room.  Good chew treats like bully sticks or deer antlers are great too, and often the prolonged chewing can help relieve any travel stress.

- Pack a long leash.  While we love our dogs to have freedom when we head out on an hike, not all have stellar recall, and we never want to lose our dog when we’re away from home.  Bugsy was rarely off his long leash this past weekend.

- Dog coat. We always hope for perfect weather,  but we don’t always get what we wish for, and we certainly don’t want to miss out on some great scenery just because of a little rain.  Your dog will appreciate being dry.

- Benadryl and Gravol.  Benadryl for any unexpected allergy flare-ups, and Gravol for mild car sickness.  Check with your vet before using either, and for a recommended dosage.

Traveling with our dogs can be a lot of fun. With a little pre-planning, having the furkids tagging along can be painless; they’ll be happy just being with you and being included!

     

Enjoying an ocean view hike