DogBoy's Dog BlogDog boarding, training, daycare and wellness in the Austin area

Hello Dog Lovers,

Each year, DogBoy & I go on a long vacation. We live on the property with DogBoy’s boarding kennel on one side, and the Training & Wellness center on the other, a view of the agility field out our kitchen window, and a view of one of the playgroups our our bathroom window. Employees are all around walking back and forth, and customers are (thankfully) coming in and out daily. Sometimes, being in the middle of it all leaves us feeling a little like we’re living in a bubble. Because we live, eat, work and raise our family all in the same place, when we need a vacation we have to really get away (far away or for a long time, or both) to accomplish that.

So far, we have not yet taken our dogs along for the ride. There is no room in the car for the big dogs (sorry guys), and taking little Noodle would make eating out difficult. Some of the national parks we went to this trip weren’t very dog friendly either. Not to mention our dogs get excellent care at DogBoy’s while we’re gone!

I’m sure Noodle, Rebel and Tessa are getting lots of exercise, belly rubs, and plenty of opportunities for playtime with other dogs. Getting to romp around on 15 acres is like dog heaven. Anytime they’re out of the house, their tails are wagging, and their tongues are hanging out from sheer bliss. They want all the other dogs to know the truth: they run this place. But at night, when they’re sleeping soundly in their air-conditioned runs, I think about them and wish they were curled up in my lap or at my feet.

I think next year, I might see if I can talk DogBoy into letting me bring Noodle along. After 15 years in the pet care industry, I’m almost embarrassed to say that I’ve never taken my pups on vacation with me. I’m curious to know if you’ve traveled with your dog, and what your experiences have been?

Happy Tails!
DogGirl

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Thanks to businessbroad.com for the image.

Noodle is feeling patriotic today!

Howdy, Y’all! Noodle Here.

My Mom and Dad are out celebrating the 4th of July without me this year, but I want you to know that that’s not necessarily a bad thing! I’m holding down the fort at the Ranch (all 10 lbs of me), making sure all the other dogs have company, and I’m busy keep away the intruders in the tall grass (All grass is tall to me).

My mom says that the 4th of July is a real reason to celebrate. Rumor has it, she’s visiting the home of a Navy pilot, who’s home for only a short visit near the end of a VERY long deployment. I love snuggling on my mom’s lap while she’s reading her friend’s military spouse blog, Witty Little Secret.

Sometimes she laughs (fun for me), and sometimes she cries (good for her), but she always leaves with a better understanding of what it’s like to truly sacrifice for the sake of our country.

Okay, back to me and my cuddly self. Did I mention I miss my mom? There is one more thing I need you to know before tonight. If your county doesn’t have a burn ban like Travis County does, and you actually get to go out and see fireworks tonight, do my four-legged friends a favor and DON’T bring them along. I know you love to take us lots of places, and most times that’s a good thing! But fireworks stress us out, so please keep us home indoors where it’s safe. Windows closed, shades drawn, and music up are all things that will improve the mood. If your pups have access to your back yard where the scary fireworks are, make sure their collars and tags are on, JUST IN CASE they feel the need to escape and go AWOL. If you have time, download this really cool CD called Through a Dog’s Ear, it’s music just for me that is especially made to calm us down. Here’s even more safety tips for dogs during fireworks.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July, dog friends, and come home soon, Mom!

Love, Noodle

Howdy, Dog Lover!

Noodle Doodle can be a Little Napoleon.

Most of our dogs are perfect angels, right? I know Noodle is! Well, the truth is, Noodle can sometimes be a pill around strangers who come in the house.

Occasionally, dogs who are great with their owners can be less angelic in public, and can sometimes even snap or bite. Of course, we can help if you are experiencing this behavior.

But in honor of National Dog Bite Prevention week, I thought it might also be helpful to hear some tips from world-famous trainer, Victoria Stilwell.

Take a listen to this AVMA Animal Tracks podcast, and get tips on preventing dog bites. Victoria gives advice about teaching your dog WHAT to do, when you encounter a situation that makes your dog uncomfortable, and a few things you can do to prevent your dog from biting at home and in public.

For more information about National Dog Bite Prevention Week, visit the AVMA website. Until then, socialize your dog as much as you can - we can help with that too!

Take it easy,

DogGirl

Kids & Dogs can coexist peacefully!

This past Monday, DogBoy and I ventured off the Ranch with our well-seasoned dog trainer of almost 10 years, Rebecca Andrews. We were on a mission to educate the children of Dessau Elementary School for their local Career Day. One of our own kids goes to this school, so this career day was a special treat for us. We brought along Rebecca’s faithful sidekick, Murphy.

Of course, everyone wants to pet Murphy. He’s the local favorite greeter at DogBoy’s. He’s easy going, always ready for a belly rub, and wonderful with kids. But besides teaching kids what it’s like to run a dog ranch or be a dog trainer, we felt pretty strongly that there are other important things that kids need to know about dogs. We’re all kids on the inside (right?), so I thought I’d share these things with you too:

How to greet a dog you don’t know:

1. ALWAYS Ask permission! Not all dogs like kids (or people, for that matter), so it’s always a good idea to ask first.

2. Approach with your body sideways (perpendicular) to the dog. This lets him/her know that you pose no threat, and squat down to his or her level, looking away. Watch the dog’s body language to see if the pup is eager to meet you or not. Lick your lips or yawn, even scratch your belly. These area all calming signals that put dogs at ease. If you see the dog back up or give you the “whale eye”, back away and give the dog space.

3. Let the dog smell you first. I prefer an open hand, but some people advocate protecting your fingers…

4. Pet the dog on the chin or chest - not on top of the head or on his back. Never hug a dog you don’t know! Even most of our own dogs don’t love the hugging and kissing that we do.

Murphy is a certified Canine Good Citizen

We also discussed what to do if you see a dog running towards you with no owner present:

1. BE A TREE! Stand still with your arms down and look straight ahead. Don’t look at, talk to or touch the dog, as this will engage him. Whatever you do, DO NOT RUN. The dog will chase you and the dog will catch you!

2. If you get knocked down, tuck in your knees, and protect your head with your arms. Close your hands into fists and cover your neck and ears. If the dog does mean you harm, these are areas you want to protect. It is unlikely that this would happen, but it’s good to know what to do if it does!

Finally, we discussed all the different types of jobs dogs have, and what every pet dogs needs at home:

Food, Water, Shelter, Love and Exercise!
(Shots and Spay/Neuter too!)

We had a blast, of course we were a huge hit with the kids, and DogBoy’s is headed back to another school to do the same thing tomorrow. Who doesn’t want to grow up and play with dogs? We have the best job in the whole wide world!

So if you know a kid, or a parent with kids, pass these tips along. Next week is Dog Bite Prevention Week, so let’s all do our part to keep everyone safe!

Until then, keep those tails wagging!

DogGirl

Photo by Emken Photography

Recently, I asked you to submit your testimonials. I was overwhelmed with heartwarming letters and thank you’s all over the web. I couldn’t stop smiling for weeks! Without a doubt, our cup runneth over, so I felt it only appropriate to share some of them with you.

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Our dog Moab is such an important part of our family and the only place we trust to board him is Dog Boys. His is now 6 and has been going to DogBoy’s since he was 6 months old. He gets so excited as we turn onto the street to enter into DogBoy’s and is always a happy and tired pup when we pick him up. The staff is wonderful and we love that the animals get to play outside all day long. Thank you DogBoy’s for providing such a wonderful service to allow us to feel comfortable leaving our best buddy with you.

Nikki McCormick

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Confessions of a Training Junkie

“Yes, I must admit it, I just can’t seem to let a “semester” go by without taking another training class at Dog Boys Dog Ranch! As one class draws to a close, I eagerly scan the website for new postings and opportunities to bond and train with my dogs. We’ve taken puppy classes, basic and advanced obedience, and fun classes like agility and rally-obedience. When I jokingly told the director of training that I was running out of classes, I promptly found fresh offerings to consider. They LISTEN at Dog Boys! I drive 40 minutes each way to go to Dog Boys because I believe there is no better place to take my “kids”, whether for training, overnight boarding, or day care. Go Dog Boys!”

– Carole Cameron (Bear, Koko, Dakota, and Mika too)

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My husband and I are so thankful that we discovered DogBoy’s! Our two dogs have stayed there many times, either for just a night or two or as long as nine days. We always know that we can be at ease while out of town, because our dogs are so well cared for. The farm-like setting of DogBoy’s is awesome. It allows for the dogs to get great exercise, and we really enjoy getting the briefing from the great staff on the dogs’ activities and behavior when we pick them up. I have recommended DogBoy’s to all of my dog-loving friends and co-workers without hesitation and will continue to do so.

Thank you DogBoy’s for all you do,

Hollee and Dwayne Ganner

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I was introduced to the DogBoy world view by a friend and your place and staff are everything she described – and more. Because you are even better in person!

I am so happy that I can look forward to my vacations and times I need to travel because I know Karmo has a home away from home. He is always excited when we turn down the road to your place and comes back to me happy happy happy! Even though I usually have to bring him in an extra day or two because I live in Fredericksburg, I never worry about him getting attention and love.

Thanks for all you do,

Gaylen Tips

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I love DogBoy’s and how they are able to keep my dog socialized. I am not in a position to get another dog to train her to be around but I do like to keep her around other dogs. DogBoy’s is the place! They have playgroups that really tire the pups. I love picking Tootsie up after a play day or boarding and having a “sleeping baby” the rest of the evening! Sometimes the whole next day too. Being in an agility class with Noodle was pretty great too!

Mona Corbett

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And finally…

My golden retriever puppy, Murphy, had a hard time finding friendly dogs to play with. A helpful dog owner that lives near me told me about DogBoy’s, and I made a reservation right away. It gave him a chance to make some friends, and get that social interaction that is so important. I have not yet boarded Murphy overnight, but he has had many wonderful playdays, and I always mention how much Murphy loves to come to DogBoy’s when I meet other dog owners.

Deborah Thompson

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You can find more great testimonials on our Facebook Notes Page. Thank you, thank you for all the kudos, and we will continue to work hard to earn your praises!

In Flash’s words as told to his owner Sharon:

Rebecca and her boy Murphy

My primary trainer-Rebecca-is very nice and very smart and teaches me many things.

I receive treats for being a “good boy” such as when I walk politely on a leash around the big fields at DogBoy’s, jump through the tire on the agility field, come when called and even when I am relaxing quietly-how cool is that?

Rebecca must think that I am very handsome and a good performer because she films me during our training sessions and shows the videos to my owner.

I have met many trainers who play fun games with me and help me learn to trust people.

I am also meeting some lovely canine ladies so I can improve my doggie socialization skills.

There are always plenty of friendly faces to kiss, fun places to explore and new smells to investigate.

I can’t wait until it’s time to go to Charm School again!

Yours truly,

Flash

Flash

Pancake Weighs in on Resolutions for 2011

Here at DogBoy’s, we take dog whispering to a whole new level. Not only do our own dogs come, sit and stay (well…most of the time), they each told me their goals for 2011. Be sure to visit our biography page for photos! Without further ado, here are our pets’ resolutions for the coming year:

Graham Robison: I want to do more than just lay around under a sage bush all day in playgroup.

Dottie Slaughter: I want to make new friends and not be such a mama’s girl!

Tessa Emken: I want to cut down on eating sticks of butter that the kids leave on the counter. My vet says it’s bad for my cholesterol.

Jack “Mooper” Mundy: I want to stop helping mom clean out the litterbox. If you know what I mean.

Max Semple: I want to be braver when my big brother Ralphie isn’t around.

Murphy Andrews: I want to try to stop getting breakfast tacos based on my good looks.

Hoosier Robison: I want to give Mikey, my two-legged housemate, more kisses (easy); I want to stop accidentally flipping the switch on the power strip under the desk and turning off the computer while dad’s in the middle of a game of Civilization V (hard).

Oliver Porter: I want to stop chasing cars!

Mika Olczak: I want to treat my brother, CK the cat, more politely, even though his loud meows make me think he really likes getting rolled onto his back. Also, I want to take the stairs more slowly—tripping up them at full speed really hurts!

Noodle Emken: I want to be more polite to the visitors at my house. And to help DogGirl come up with more great Nuggets in 2011.

Cajun Slaughter: I want to stop trying to break through gates with my big head!

Sadie Korpi: I want to create a bucket list in 2011 that includes meeting my children, swimming where I can’t touch and becoming a calendar girl.

Ralphie Semple: I’m going to be more polite to strangers.

Gib Andrews: I’m going to stop fighting with dogs on the other side of the fence. Unless they start it. Then it’s on like Donkey Kong!

Rebel Emken: I want to get off the couch and run with the bike. Oh yeah, and I want to get better about coming inside when I’m out in the front yard!

Tyler Porter: I want to cut back on stolen table scraps.

Telo Slaughter: I want to travel more with mom.

Brownie Webber: I will try not to chase my housemate kitty Elise around the apartment anymore.

Zoe Korpi: I hope to see the world in more than just black, white and ham.

Pancake Barncat: I will stop leaving “presents” in the flower bed in front of the office. Also, I will find a better napping spot in the office than the out tray on the desk.

From the DogBoy’s family-two- and four-legged-to yours, all the best for a great 2011!

Noodle is ready for 2011!

I’ve decided I want to blog more. Rather than just thinking about doing it, I’m starting right now. I will be posting on this blog once a week for all of 2011.

I know it won’t be easy, but it might be fun, inspiring, awesome and wonderful. Therefore I’m promising to make use of The DailyPost, and the community of other bloggers with similiar goals, to help me along the way, including asking for help when I need it and encouraging others when I can.

If you already read my blog, I hope you’ll encourage me with comments and likes, and good will along the way.

Thanks, and Happy New Year!

DogGirl

Buddy needs a present too!

Christmas is coming, Kwanzaa starts December 26, and it’s probably not too late for a belated Hannukah gift. But the holidays always bring the dreaded question: what should I get for the special people or dogs on my list? In the spirit of the holidays, we here at DogBoy’s want to help with some gift suggestions for the dog-lovers and dogs in your life—no matter what their age or breed!

About a year ago this time I put together a list of book selections for dog lovers and it’s a great place to start for book ideas. Since then, my son has become enamored of the adventures of Clifford. The Big Red Dog has a series of animated stories, as well as a fun Christmas book. And we shouldn’t forget the series of books by Norman Bridwell that launched them all. Another great kid’s book that my three year-old son loves is Doggone Dogs, by Karen Beaumont and David Catrow. It tells the story of ten misbehaving dogs who lead their owner through a wild chase through the park, leaving chaos in their wake. If the plot of Doggone Dogs hits uncomfortably close to home, Rebecca Andrews has two suggestions: The Other End of the Leash, by Patricia McConnell; and Dr. Dunbar’s Good Little Dog Book, by Ian Dunbar. These are geared more toward the adult dog-lover in your life.

Need movies? The DogBoy’s blog has you covered. Any movie or t.v. show starring these canine idols would make a great gift. I’m especially partial to the classics Bringing Up Baby and The Thin Man, both starring Skippy the wirehaired fox terrier—one of the biggest dog stars of the 1930s. For those who like their dogs huge and animated, there’s Clifford’s Really Big Movie—an especially good film for younger kids.

The dogs in your life need their stockings stuffed too, and DogBoy’s has just the ticket. If you think your pooch should be on Santa’s “naughty” list because of a lack of leash-walking skills, there’s always the Easy-Walk Harness. We even have Premier’s new line of Easy-Walks made from recycled plastic, in eco-friendly packaging.

If your dog has made the “nice” list—or if you just can’t bring yourself to give him or her a lump of coal—we have a number of fun toys, from PetLou’s stuffed squeaky sheep and armadillos to the flat “Road Kill” toys from GoDog. The latter are flat plush toys with squeakers, and that crinkle when your dog plays with them. Our barn cat, Pancake, loves them so if you have a cat at home, you might want to get an extra one. Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog busy by stuffing them with treats or even with their dinner. My dogs are especially fond of the Busy Buddy line. We also have a range of healthy treats and dog food.

Finally, you can always give the gift of DogBoy’s. We sell gift certificates in any amount, and they are good for a year for any service or retail item we offer. So if you have a friend who needs us for a play day, boarding stay, class or private lesson—or even just dog food—we will be happy to help you out. We’ll even mail it to them for you! Best of all, we’ll be open from 7 am to 6:30 pm on Christmas Eve for any last-minute shopping you might need.

And to all of the wonderful people, dogs, and friends that make working at DogBoy’s such a joy all year around—Happy Holidays!

Noodle stays cozy at DogBoy's Dog Ranch, photo by Deb Marvin

Let’s face it—holidays are a stressful time of year. We’re hosting and attending parties, trying to find the perfect gift for everyone on our list, maybe planning a road trip or flight to visit far-away loved ones. And if all this is stressful for us, what about our dogs? Dogs are, along with us, probably the most adaptable animals on the planet. But like us, they have their limits.

So…what can you do to make your dog’s holiday season as happy and stress-free as possible? As with any time where your dog’s routine is being disrupted, spending lots of downtime with your dog, away from activities, will help, as will routine exercise and activity. Paula Baker-Prince, our Director of Training, also suggests providing fresh mental challenges for your dog, such as a new puzzle toy, to help your dog relax.

One thing to avoid at all times of the year, but especially during the holidays, is treating your dog to overly rich or toxic foods. Dog First Aid 101 has a complete list of toxic foods for dogs, but there are a few that are especially common this time of year. Dark chocolate is a biggie that most people know about. Less well-known are foods and spices like nutmeg, raisins, onions, garlic and macadamia nuts. The last thing either you or your dog want or need is a trip to the emergency vet after snacking on a holiday beef log!

And don’t forget about fireworks. Growing up in northern Indiana, I never associated New Year’s Eve with fireworks—sitting outside and watching them is a lot less fun when it’s below freezing—but here in Austin we’re blessed with warmer weather and some great displays. Unfortunately, many dogs are very afraid of fireworks. For mild anxiety, an herbal relaxant such as Rescue Remedy or Dog ‘n’ Kitty Calm (available for sale at DogBoy’s) might help. If you feel your dog might need something stronger, talk to your vet about a prescription sedative.

What if you are taking a long car trip with your dog? If you’ve ever had a dog in the car, odds are good that you already know they can get car sick just like people. And just like people, one remedy can be limiting visual cues that may contribute to motion sickness—chiefly by having them face forward. Opening the windows a little can help too, as can the Through A Dog’s Ear series of CD’s—they’re also available at DogBoy’s and there’s even a special car edition. For stronger remedies it’s best to consult your vet. And if you’ll be spending any time in a hotel, sites such as DogFriendly.com and Yelp.com are excellent resources for planning where to stay.

And finally, DogBoy’s is here to help. Other than over Christmas, we have plenty of room to board your dog overnight during holiday parties or in daycare to help them blow off some steam. And for some serious stress relief, you can always schedule a massage session here at Chelsea’s Place with certified pet masseuse Christina Hardinger. Your dog will thank you!

And whatever you do—and however you celebrate—we wish all our two- and four-legged family and friends a most joyous holiday season!