People and Pets... Better Together!
 Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva Finding a great place to live in Los Angeles is already a sport; add a dog, cat, or three, and you’re suddenly playing on “hard mode.” The good news: with a clear plan, the right search terms, and a few local legal facts in your back pocket, you can land a home that fits both you and your furry roommate(s). Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored to LA.  Image by Ryan Hilary 1) Get “pet-ready” before you start searchingMake a pet résumé. Include a flattering photo, age, breed (if applicable), weight, spay/neuter status, vaccination records, license number, training certificates (e.g., Canine Good Citizen), and a short, friendly blurb about your pet’s daily routine. Add references from a prior landlord, neighbor, and your vet. This instantly sets you apart from other applicants. Gather proof of responsibility. In the City of Los Angeles, dogs over four months must be licensed and (with limited exceptions) spayed/neutered. Having documentation ready (license + rabies vaccination) signals you follow local rules. laanimalservices.com | American Legal Publishing Consider renter’s insurance that includes pet liability. Many landlords love to see this. It’s relatively inexpensive and can cover accidental damage or liability (varies by policy).  Photo by cottonbro studio 2) Know the LA rules that actually matterHow many pets can you legally have at home? In the City of Los Angeles, you can keep up to three dogs and up to five cats (over four months) at a single premises. Buildings can set stricter rules, but they can’t authorize more than city law allows. American Legal Publishing Licensing & spay/neuter. LA requires dog licensing and (with stated exceptions) spay/neuter for dogs and cats over four months. Being in compliance reduces friction during screenings and renewals. Security deposits, pet deposits, and fees. As of July 1, 2024, California caps most residential security deposits at one month’s rent total—furnished or unfurnished—though there’s a narrow exception for some small landlords. Also, in California, “nonrefundable security deposits” aren’t a thing; if a payment functions as a deposit (including something labeled a “pet deposit”), it’s refundable and subject to the 21-day return rule after move-out with an itemized statement for any deductions. California Apartment Association | The Housing Rights Committee | Self-Help Guide to the California Courts Assistance animals are not pets. If you have a disability and a service animal or emotional support animal (ESA), housing providers must consider reasonable accommodation and may not charge pet rent or pet deposits for the assistance animal (you’re still responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear). Civil Rights Department | Disability Rights California Tip: If you’re unsure whether a fee is allowed, ask the landlord to identify whether it’s rent (recurring and nonrefundable because it’s rent) or a deposit (must be refundable and subject to caps). If it’s a deposit by function, it counts toward the legal cap and must be returned according to state rules. LACDBA  Photo by MART PRODUCTION: 3) Aim your search where pet-friendliness is the normUse filters and the right keywords. On listing sites (Zillow, HotPads, Apartments.com, PadMapper), select filters for “pet friendly,” “dogs allowed,” or “cats allowed.” In the keyword field, add terms like “pet policy,” “no breed restrictions” (if relevant), “fenced yard,” “first-floor,” “tile floors,” and “near dog park.” Shortlist pet-savvy pockets. While you can find pet-friendly homes in every corner of LA, you’ll often see strong options in areas with lots of dog parks and walkable streets—think Los Feliz/Silver Lake (near the Silver Lake Reservoir path and dog park), Hollywood/West Hollywood (multiple dog parks; lots of pet amenities), Culver City/Palms/Mar Vista (walkable pockets and easy westside access), and Studio City/Sherman Oaks (proximity to the Valley’s larger off-leash parks). If beaches are your dream, remember most LA County beaches don’t allow dogs on the sand; the closest legal, off-leash beach is Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach. Santa Monica allows leashed dogs on the boardwalk only, not the beach itself. Long Beach Check nearby green spaces. For example, Runyon Canyon has designated off-leash areas (dogs must be leashed in the parking area; observe posted rules), and the Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park in Van Nuys is one of the largest in the city. Proximity to these kinds of amenities signals pet-friendly culture—and makes daily life easier. Los Angeles Parks  Photo by Andres Ayrton 4) Read listings like a proDecode the pet policy. Look for specifics: weight limits, breed restrictions, number of pets, pet rent, deposits, and any required documents (vaccination proof, training certificates). If the listing is vague, ask:
Confirm outdoor realities. Is there a shared courtyard? What are the on-site pet rules? Where are the nearest grassy patches? If you’re dreaming of beach runs, cross-check the local rules before you assume your dog can join you on the sand. (For example, dogs aren’t allowed on Santa Monica State Beach, but they are allowed at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach during posted hours.) Santa Monica | Long Beach | justinrudd.com  Photo by Kindel Media 5) Tour with intentionArrive with a “pet packet.” Bring printed copies (or a neat PDF on your phone) of your pet résumé, license and vaccination records, spay/neuter proof, training certificates, and references. This helps a skeptical landlord imagine you as a low-risk tenant. In LA, showing your dog’s license and spay/neuter status also demonstrates compliance with local law. Offer a meet-and-greet. If allowed, introduce your pet during the tour—on leash, relaxed, and well-groomed. If not possible, share a short video that shows calm behavior at home and on walks. Propose a “pet addendum.” A tailored pet addendum can formalize expectations: waste disposal, noise management, grooming routine, and agreed cleaning at move-out. Ensure deposit language is consistent with California’s one-month security deposit cap (unless the small-landlord exception applies) and that any deposit labeled for pets is clearly refundable at move-out, minus lawful deductions. California Apartment Association | LACDBA  Photo by Ivan Samkov 6) Strategize the money conversationPet rent vs. pet deposit. Monthly pet rent is common and is not a deposit. A pet deposit (like any security deposit) is refundable and must be returned within 21 days after move-out with an itemized list of deductions. Clarify which is which and how the deposit will be held. Self-Help Guide to the California Courts Volunteer reasonable safeguards. Offer to pay for professional deep cleaning at move-out, schedule mid-lease carpet cleanings, or install pet gates/window screens where appropriate. These smaller concessions often make an owner feel protected without violating the deposit cap. Mind the exception. Some small “mom-and-pop” landlords qualify for a higher deposit cap than one month. Ask politely if they fall under the exception in AB 12 (natural persons/LLCs in which all members are natural persons, owning a limited number of small properties). If yes, make sure you’re comfortable with the numbers before you apply.  Photo by cottonbro studio 7) Be honest about challenges—and pre-solve themBarking or separation anxiety? Share your plan (crate training, enrichment toys, dog walker mid-day, training refresher). Scratching? Show your cat setup (scratching posts, nail caps, protected furniture). Puppy energy? Mention your walk schedule and nearby off-leash areas you’ll use (e.g., Runyon Canyon’s designated zones) to burn energy responsibly.  Photo by Alice Castro 8) Beach dreams vs. beach rules (reality check)It’s iconic to imagine sunset runs on the sand, but many LA beaches ban dogs on the beach itself. Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach are no-dogs-on-sand; Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is the region’s best-known legal off-leash beach spot (check posted hours and rules; bring your leash to and from the zone). Knowing this ahead of time helps you choose a neighborhood with the parks and paths you’ll actually use.  Photo by Max Ravier 9) Red flags and green lightsGreen lights:
 Photo by Arina Krasnikova 10) Your LA pet-housing checklist
 Photo by Arina Krasnikova Final wordIn LA’s competitive rental market, being organized, transparent, and law-literate is the real superpower. Arrive with documentation, speak confidently about local requirements (licensing, spay/neuter, legal deposit caps), and show proactive care for your pet’s behavior and the property. Do that, and you won’t just find a place that accepts pets--you’ll find a landlord glad to welcome both of you home.
 Photo by thevibrantmachine: https://www.pexels.com Introduction – Beyond TreatsEvery relationship—human or animal—thrives on clear communication. Yet many guardians rely on a single vocabulary of praise (“Good girl!”) and the occasional snack to show affection. Like people, pets feel love in different ways. By identifying your companion’s “love language,” you can tailor everyday interactions so they truly understand how cherished they are, strengthening trust, cooperation, and well-being. Below you’ll find a practical roadmap, rooted in modern behavior science and day-to-day observation, for decoding and honoring the unique way your pet gives and receives love.  Photo by rescriptt rescriptt: https://www.pexels.com What Exactly Is a Love Language? The term comes from Dr. Gary Chapman’s work on human relationships, describing five primary ways people express and interpret affection: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Physical Touch, Receiving Gifts, and Acts of Service. While animals don’t process language or symbolism as we do, they absolutely display parallel preferences—customized by species, breed, history, and individual temperament. Recognizing those patterns lets you swap generic praise for deliberate, meaningful gestures that resonate on your pet’s wavelength. why love language matters
 Photo by Ron Lach : https://www.pexels.com The Five Love Languages—Pet Edition Below is a quick reference table translating human love languages into day-to-day animal care contexts. Remember that most pets enjoy all five to some degree; the magic is discovering which one lights them up best.  Love Language #1: Quality Time & Play Some pets flourish when you’re fully present. Dogs bred for teamwork (Border Collies, Labs) and parrots—highly social flock animals—often crave interactive games over static comforts.
 Photo by Patrick : https://www.pexels.com Love Language #2: Physical Touch & Comfort Animals with a strong tactile drive seek warmth, pressure, or rhythmic contact. Think of velcro-cats who head-butt you awake, or rabbits that flatten against your palm for forehead strokes.
 Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com Love Language #3: Positive Verbal or Audio Cues Not all pets respond to human speech, but many key into tone, rhythm, and certain marker words. High-frequency squeaks can excite a ferret; a calm, low register soothes anxious horses.
 Photo by Eugenia Remark: https://www.pexels.com Love Language #4: Receiving Gifts—Treats & Toys For many food-motivated pets, affection equals edible “presents.” That said, novelty can be just as powerful: a new crinkly ball might trump yesterday’s chicken morsel.
 Photo by Alexander Grey: https://www.pexels.com Love Language #5: Acts of Service—CaretakingFor certain sensitive souls, reliability and environmental quality speak louder than play or snacks. Clean litter, timely walks, and safe resting nooks communicate love by reducing stressors.
 Photo by Impact Dog Crates: https://www.pexels.com Reading the Signs—A Mini Observation Checklist
 Photo by Michael Morse: https://www.pexels.com Species and Individual Nuances
 Photo by Helena Lopes: https://www.pexels.com Crafting a Personalized Love-Language Plan
 Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com Conclusion – Love That Speaks Their Dialect Discovering your pet’s love language isn’t a gimmick; it’s an invitation to active empathy. Observe, adapt, and meet your companion exactly where their instincts live. When a cat purrs because the litter box is impeccably clean, or a cockatoo bobs its head to your morning greeting song, you’ll feel a reciprocal joy far richer than routine caretaking. Those shared moments, shaped by a language all your own, weave the invisible threads that transform ownership into partnership, and partnership into lasting, unconditional love.
 Photo by Rachel Claire Summer sun and fresh air might be a pet's dream, but warm weather also brings out some unwelcome visitors: fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, mites, and more. While these pests may seem like little more than a seasonal nuisance, they can pose serious health threats to both pets and people. Understanding the risks and taking preventative action is key to keeping your furry companions safe and healthy.  Infographic by ryan hilary The Hidden Dangers of Bugs and ParasitesParasites don’t just irritate your pets. They can also transmit diseases, cause allergic reactions, and lead to long-term health complications if left untreated. Here are some of the most common pests and the risks they carry: 1. Fleas
 Photo by SweeMing YOUNG: Prevention Tips: How to Minimize the RiskThe good news is that with a few proactive steps, you can greatly reduce your pet’s exposure to parasites: 1. Use Preventive Medications Talk to your vet about year-round parasite prevention, including flea, tick, and heartworm medications. These can come in the form of monthly chewables, topicals, or collars. 2. Maintain a Clean Environment Regularly wash your pet’s bedding, vacuum floors and upholstery, and keep your yard trimmed. This disrupts the life cycle of fleas and reduces tick hiding spots.  Photo by RDNE Stock project 3. Groom and Inspect Your Pet Brush your pet regularly and check their skin, especially after walks or outdoor play. Pay close attention to ears, armpits, neck, and under the tail for ticks or bite marks. 4. Protect the Indoors Use pet-safe pest repellents and keep your home sealed to prevent bug entry. Consider mosquito screens and door sweeps. 5. Control Outdoor Exposure Limit your pet’s access to tall grass, standing water, and wooded areas—prime breeding grounds for pests. If you're hiking or camping, keep pets on-leash and check them afterward.  Photo by Molnár Tamás Photography™ 6. Practice Safe Socialization Parks, daycares, and pet-friendly events are great, but they can be hotspots for fleas and worms. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and preventatives before mingling. 7. Regular Veterinary Check Ups Routine fecal tests and physical exams can catch infestations early. Ask your vet to tailor a parasite prevention plan based on your pet’s lifestyle and location.  Photo by JacLou- DL Final ThoughtsBugs and parasites may be a part of nature, but they don’t have to be part of your pet’s life. With a proactive approach, the right medications, and a little vigilance, you can keep your furry family member safe from these dangerous intruders.
Your pet trusts you to protect them. Make this season a parasite-free one.  During The Holiday Season, millions of Americans hit the road to visit family or enjoy a much-needed vacation. While some pet parents leave their beloved animals with friends or find a suitable boarding facility, others take them along for the ride. Bringing your animal into the wide world can be an amazing opportunity to share new experiences and broaden their horizons but also requires crucial logistical and safety considerations. In this article, we offer a comprehensive guide to help you travel safely and comfortably with your pets during the busy and sometimes stressful holiday season. MAKE A PLAN: KNOW YOUR PET'S NEEDSBefore embarking on any journey, it’s important to assess your pet's temperament, health, and comfort level with travel. Some pets can find car rides or airline flights frightening; a crowded airport alone can be disorienting for animals unaccustomed to loud, busy environments. Other pets may be resistant to travelling in a carrier and will require you to arrange a safe alternative. It is important to be mindful of their preferences and needs, and to anticipate any challenges advance.
 Photo by Francesca Tirico on Unsplash CHOOSE THE BEST MODE OF TRANSPORTATIONHow you travel with your pet depends on several factors, including your destination, your pet’s behavior, and your budget. Below are some tips for different modes of transportation:
 Erda Estremera on Unsplash WHAT TO PACKWhen traveling during the holidays, packing efficiently for your pet is essential. You want to ensure they have everything they need while keeping your own luggage light.
 Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash MANAGING STRESS AND ANXIETYThe hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be stressful not only for you but for your pets as well. From crowded airports to unfamiliar environments, pets can get anxious. Here’s how to manage stress and anxiety for your pet:
 Photo by Emerson Peters on Unsplash SAFETY ON THE ROADIf you're traveling by car, safety should be a priority. Unrestrained pets can be dangerous both to themselves and to you. Here’s how to keep your pet safe during your travels:
 Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash PETS WITH SPECIAL NEEDSIf your pet has special needs or is older, travel during the holiday season may require additional consideration. Older pets or those with medical conditions may have more trouble adjusting to travel routines or long trips.
 Photo by Chewy on Unsplash ARRIVALOnce you arrive at your destination, there are a few things to consider to help your pet settle in comfortably:
CONCLUSIONTraveling with your pet during the holidays should be a joyful, fulfilling experience. It provides a chance to bond with your animal and bring them more fully into the family fold. By preparing for the journey, ensuring their comfort, and keeping their safety in mind, you can make the holiday season special for humans and animals alike. We wish a safe, stress-free holiday season for everyone in your family, including your furry companions!
 Photo by Shane on Unsplash The indelible bond between human and dog is deeply embedded in our culture, a recurring theme expressed most decisively in the (hu)man’s best friend motif that appears in everything from marketing materials to novels and movies. But where did this idea come from? Why dogs instead of cats, parrots, or hamsters? Humans share strong bonds with many kinds of animal and will keep almost anything, including roaches and snakes, as pets. Yet, our connection to canines appears particularly pronounced--to the extent that many people genuinely believe you cannot trust anyone who doesn't like dogs. In this post, we look at a recent comparative study of this topic. By the end, you might be surprised to find that the human-canine connection is not merely a social concept but actually has evolutionary origins.  Graphic by Author THE STUDYIn a recent study researchers used The Strange Situation Test to examine the bond between dogs and their owners. This test involves placing puppies in an unfamiliar environment with their permanent (at least partially bonded) owner and a stranger, then replicating the procedure with pigs. By drawing from a large pool of test subjects and contrasting the behaviors of the dogs with the behaviors of the pigs, they sought to identify the distinguishing dynamics of the human-canine bond. The three main factors that the researchers considered were:
 Photo by Chewy on Unsplash ITS FINDINGSThrough the Strange Situation Test, the scientists recorded striking differences between companion dogs and their pig equivalents. While the pigs displayed no notable changes in the way they interacted with the human subjects, the dogs showed definitive attachment-specific behaviors, scoring significantly higher on this factor, and therefore suggesting a stronger connection with the bonded human. In other words, the pig’s interactions with their owners did not change during the experiment, while the dogs drew closer to theirs. Scientists concluded that the presence of a stranger in an unfamiliar environment prompted the puppies to seek safety, while the pigs remained mostly ambivalent.  Photo by Chewy on Unsplash INSIGHTS AND CONCLUSIONSFrom these observations, the researchers concluded that in addition to species-specific inclinations, evolutionary adaptation has imbued canines with an innate, instinctual tendency to form strong bonds with humans, even at an early age when they have not yet been fully conditioned to rely on their owner. They believe this dog-owner attachment is not a product of domestication, but rather a case of artificial selection, which may also affect the human side of the relationship. Indeed, pet owners in general, and dog owners specifically, draw numerous health benefits from their animals. Did You Know: Dog ownership has been proven to slow or reverse the effects of cognitive decline. Check out this article to find out more. While attachment tendencies may not be purely genetic, centuries of learned behavior have created a unique, apriori bond between canine and human, which is realized at an early stage of development. This is analogous to the infant-mother bond, which grows stronger and faster than any other human relationship.  Image by Fran • @mallorcadogphotography from Pixabay ANOTHER STUDYThe results of a second experiment strengthen these conclusions. Here, researchers gathered sleep electroencephalography (EEG) readings from 42 dogs, half of which took an afternoon nap with their bonded-owner and the other half of which slept alone—again in an unfamiliar environment. The EEG data showed that the dogs with their owner present suffered less stress and anxiety from the strange environment and thus slept more deeply and for a longer length of time. They Again, the origins of this test are rooted in similar studies of babies with their mothers.  Image by Hoàng_Thạch Nguyễn from Pixabay NOT JUST A CONSTRUCTIONThere is much work to be done to fully understand the powerful bond between humans and canines, but these early tests lay a solid foundation for future studies, pointing scientists towards the probability that the relationship is not a social construct, but has a basis in evolutionary biology, in particular artificial selection. Hopefully, these findings will resonate with dog owners of all persuasions, strengthening their relationship with their animal as they realize the bond goes deeper than mere socialization. Humans and dogs have evolved to be together. It really is encoded in their biology.
At PAWS/LA we are excited to see what comes next.  Image Credit: Honest Paws on Unsplash.com Hiking—a beloved summer pursuit...for some people. Not me, though. Me, I’m more of a sit-indoors-with the air conditioning blasting-playing-video-games kind of adventurer. (I'm kidding, of course...sort of). But for many, the warmer months provide the perfect excuse to get into the great outdoors, and it’s only natural that their four-legged friends accompany them at such times. Indeed, this timeless communion with nature, takes on new dimensions when shared with an animal companion, transforming a solitary trek into a lively exploration filled with boundless energy, playfulness, and a contagious enthusiasm for the wilderness. In this blog post, we celebrate the experience of hiking with a dog, examining this unique opportunity to strengthen the human-animal bond. We also go over some safety concerns so that you and your pooch can have the best possible experience.  Image from Unsplash Why Hike with Your Pooch?Hiking with a dog isn't merely about exercise; it's a partnership founded in shared experience. From the moment you hit the trailhead, your dog becomes your adventure buddy. Sometimes, they’ll bound ahead, rooting out secrets amongst the undergrowth. At others, they pad along by your side, fostering a sense of companionship and mutual safety. A dog’s keen senses amplify the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness, adding a layer of awareness that heightens your own appreciation of the environment. They will notice things you do not, and maybe lead you to otherwise forgotten spots and spaces. Together, human and animal can have some truly meaningful adventures. Similarly, an enthusiastic pooch can infuse any hike with their infectious zest for life, energizing their owners as both head along the trail. Their playful antics, whether chasing butterflies or joyfully leaping over obstacles, remind us to embrace the moment and revel in the simple pleasures of nature. In the presence of a faithful friend, even the weariest hiker can find the will to press on and explore further, uncovering hidden trails and maybe even a breathtaking vistas they would otherwise have missed. Plus, a dog won’t disturb the peace and quiet by talking your ear off. (They won’t constantly be checking their phone, either). Overall, the companionship of a dog on the trail fosters a deep bond built on trust and mutual reliance. As you navigate challenging terrain together, whether scrambling up rocky slopes or forging through dense undergrowth, a sense of camaraderie develops that transcends words. In these moments, the solitude of the wilderness feels less solitary, enriched by the presence of a loyal and steadfast friend. This is a true celebration of the human-animal bond!  Image by Lenka Novotná from Pixabay Preparation and Safety ConsiderationsWhile hiking with a dog is an unqualified pleasure, it also requires careful preparation to ensure the safety and comfort of both you and your companion. 1. Fitness and Ability: Consider your dog's age, breed, and fitness level before embarking on a hike. Like humans, dogs, especially those of certain breeds, vary in their endurance and stamina. Start with shorter, less strenuous hikes and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog builds endurance. 2. Trail Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with trail regulations and guidelines regarding dogs. Some trails may have restrictions or require animals to be leashed at all times. Respect these rules to maintain harmony with other hikers and protect local wildlife. And ALWAYS pick up after your animal. You don’t want to step on or sit down in excrement, and neither does anyone else. I guess. I don’t know, maybe they do… 3. Gear Essentials: Pack essentials for your dog, including a sturdy leash, collar with ID tags, water and a portable bowl, snacks and treats. You might also want to consider a first aid kit tailored for pets. Consider investing in a harness for added control and comfort, especially on challenging terrain. Again, you can never bring enough water. It’s one of the greatest dangers of a long hike, running out of liquids and suffering through dehydration and heat stroke. 4. Health and Safety: Keep an eye on your dog's health throughout the hike. Watch for signs of fatigue, overheating, or discomfort, and be prepared to adjust your pace or take breaks as needed. Protect your dog from ticks, fleas, and other hazards prevalent in the wilderness. This guide will help you recognize the symptoms of heat stroke so that you can step in before any real damage is done. Oh, and did I mention already: WATER, WATER, WATER… 5. Leave No Trace: Practice leave no trace principles by cleaning up after your dog. Bring some plastic bags for trash and dispose of everything responsibly.  Image by Dan Fador from Pixabay Connecting with NatureOne of the most profound rewards of hiking with dogs lies in their ability to reconnect us with the rhythm and texture of nature. Dogs, attuned to the subtleties of the environment, remind us to slow down and appreciate the natural world. Whether pausing to watch a sunset together, listening to the rustle of leaves in the wind, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation, hiking with a dog encourages a mindful presence that transcends the ordinary. Furthermore, dogs inspire exploration beyond familiar trails, leading us off the beaten path to discover secluded waterfalls, hidden meadows, or serene lakeshores. Their curiosity ignites our own sense of adventure, fostering a spirit of discovery and wonder that enriches every hiking experience.  Image by Pfüderi from Pixabay Challenges and GrowthWhile the rewards of hiking with dogs are abundant, challenges may arise that may require patience and adaptability. From encountering wildlife to navigating crowded trails, each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning. 1. Wildlife Encounters: Be vigilant and respectful of wildlife while hiking with your dog. Keep your dog leashed to prevent them from chasing or disturbing the local fauna and educate yourself on the habits and habitats of the animals in your region. Likewise, familiarize yourself with potentially poisonous plant life, and in general, don't allow your pooch to eat anything random they find along the trail. Remember, that some areas may be home to potentially dangerous animals such as bears, coyotes and mountain lions. While these encounters are typically rare and seldom escalate, you should remain vigilant, regardless. 2. Socialization: Some dogs may need time to adjust to encounters with other hikers, dogs, or unfamiliar sights and sounds. Gradually expose your dog to different environments and situations to build confidence and reduce anxiety. 3. Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts before heading out on a hike and prepare accordingly. Ensure your dog is equipped with appropriate gear for rain, snow, or extreme temperatures to keep them comfortable and safe.  Image by zoegammon from Pixabay The Bond That EnduresHiking with dogs transcends the physical act of walking; it embodies a profound connection between human and animal, rooted in shared experiences and a mutual love for the outdoors. Whether scaling mountain peaks, meandering through verdant forests, or tracing the path of a river, every hike becomes a testament to the enduring bond between human and animal.
Hopefully, these words have inspired you to get out and celebrate the pleasures of hiking with your pet. With an open heart and a spirit of exploration, new adventures surely await on trails across the world, whether you’re exploring somewhere new close to home, or taking advantage of the opportunities that arise during a vacation. So, go gather your gear, leash up your faithful friend, and embark on a journey that promises both discovery and cherished memories.  Ryan Hilary with Canva IntroductionSummer is upon us! If last year was anything to go by (as well as a worldwide pattern of steadily rising temperatures) we’re going to see some real scorchers come July and August. For many of us, that means pulling the cover off our backyard pool or taking a trip to the beach or local swimming pool. In other words, where there’s heat there’s water—lots of water. But as pleasurable as a long swim on a hot day can be, pools, oceans and lakes introduce a particular set of safety concerns, especially for pet owners. In this post, we take a deep dive (pun intended) into best practices for water safety, ensuring that your animal gets to enjoy a good dip without compromising their safety and well-being.  Courtesy of AustraliaWide First Aid Lifeguard On Duty: Restrict and Supervise!The golden rule of pet-centered water safety is never to leave your pet unsupervised near water. Ever. Whether it's a pool, lake, river, or even a bathtub, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye and owners need to stay vigilant, especially if the pet in question is not a strong swimmer. This means restricting your animal to a certain vicinity if visiting a lake or the ocean and ensuring that any backyard swimming pools are covered or fenced off when you aren’t present. In some cases, you may be able to set your pool with an alarm that sounds when something has breached the fence, gate or covering. Additionally, consider investing in flotation devices designed with pets in mind. These can include life jackets or vests specially made for dogs and cats. Make sure that the flotation device fits properly and doesn't restrict your pet's movement. This way, if your attention lapses for a moment, and your pet gets into trouble, they’ll have some solid protection against drowning, giving you time to step in and help. Speaking of which, make sure you know pet CPR and first aid. These skills can make a lifesaving difference in an emergency. You can enroll in a pet CPR and first aid course to learn the essentials and there are many additional guides and resources online.  From: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/other-veterinary-advice/cpr-for-dogs-and-puppies Wet Your Paws Slowly!If you do decide to let your pet swim, make sure to introduce them to water gradually. Not all domestic animals are natural swimmers, and some may feel apprehensive about taking a plunge, either for the first time, or if it’s been a while since they last swam. In either case, start with shallow water in a controlled environment (i.e. not an open ocean), and let your pet get comfortable at their own pace. Once your pet is comfortable in smaller, contained bodies of water, teach them some basic swimming skills. Support them gently while encouraging them to paddle and avoid forcing them to continue if they seem tired or uncomfortable. It’s crucial to insulate your pet from anything that might create fear and anxiety, ultimately causing them to panic and tire themselves out. WARNING! Some breeds of dogs simply don't do well around water--especially those with short legs and muzzles. Make sure you know the particulars of your dog's breed before letting them even attempt to swim. Provide Easy Exit PointsWherever they’re swimming, make sure that your pet always has easy access to an exit point. This is especially important for pools, where pets can struggle to find the stairs or ramp. Clearly mark easy exit areas and train your pet to identify and use them. Be wary of pools equipped only with metal ladders, as few animals will be able to use these effectively and may slip and injure themselves when attempting to climb up. In these cases, consider purchasing a separate ramp to attach to the side of the pool. Any ramp will suffice, but some are designed specifically with swimming pools in mind, although these can be expensive.  Ryan Hilary with Canva Monitor Pool ChemicalsIf you have a pool at home, be cautious about the chemicals you use to maintain it.
 The Ocean is Beautiful…and DangerousWhile all these tips apply to a seaside setting, bear in mind that the ocean is often something else entirely, presenting its own set of challenges and dangers. Sudden changes in weather or tide can make an initially safe swimming situation dangerous in an instant. Learn about any beach you and your pet want to visit, consulting an on-duty lifeguard, if possible. You should be aware of any stretch of water that might conceal a rip tide or other dangerous “pull” capable of sweeping your pet away from shore. Remember, that these dangers can depend on the time of day. What was safe in the morning might be dangerous in the afternoon. Generally, only the strongest swimmers should wade out of their depth in the ocean. And while it’s usually perfectly safe for your animal to play on the edge of the surf be mindful of large waves, which might knock your pet over, or drag them out of their depth.  Robina Weermeijer from Unsplash.com Be Aware of “Dry Drowning”Dry drowning, also known as secondary drowning or near-drowning, may occur if your pet inhales even a small amount of water. This can irritate their throat and cause the vocal cords to spasm. In severe cases, portions of the animal’s airway might swell, restricting their ability to breathe. Though your pet may initially look okay, it’s important to monitor them closely for a period following any near-drowning incident. If they seem to be in discomfort of any kind, get them checked by a veterinarian. Dry drowning symptoms to look for include:
If your dog falls into water and is submerged for any period, this is a medical emergency that should be addressed immediately.  Anthony Duran from Unsplash.com conclusionSwimming on a hot day is one of summer’s great pleasures—for pets and their owners alike. But as with young children, water can pose a real threat to unprepared animals. Knowing your pet’s habits is important, as is evaluating their ability to swim and their overall comfort level around water. Even if an animal is technically strong enough to navigate a lake or pool, becoming submerged in water can sometimes cause them to panic, diminishing their ability to make it safely back to dry land. Proceed cautiously, stay present and observe closely, taking whatever physical precautions are necessary to ensure your animal doesn’t enter the water without a competent guardian present. In this way, you can ensure your animal enjoys the best summer has to offer.
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