My Fetching Fido

Have you ever thought about adding a little bling to your dog’s fabulously shiny fur coat? It’s a perfect way to compliment the doggy evening gown you’ve probably already purchased for your pet. Your buddy will be one step closer to looking like a little lady; now if you could only teach her to walk in heels – just kidding. She’ll be the best-dressed pooch on your block in no time!

Last year my mother purchased our family dog, Lola, a faux-pearl necklace. The tiny pink beads were an elegant contrast to her light-gray coat. Instead of making her neck appear cluttered when the dog jewelry was paired with her collar, the necklace served as its replacement. We found that it was very easy to attach Lola’s identification tags to the necklace.

My good friend just got a new convertible and is enjoying these summer days driving around town with the top down. Of course, her wind-loving Golden Retriever, Goldie, loves riding along in the back seat. The only problem is that the sun and dust particles are harmful to her eyes. My friend found the perfect solution – dog glasses, called Doggles. Not only do they protect Goldie’s beautiful eyes, but they make a darling fashion statement. Goldie can’t believe all the attention she gets with her shades on, all the while protecting her eyes.

If you’re about to get married, you’re probably up to your ears in wedding plans. You’re busy choosing invitations, flowers, food, bridesmaids’ dresses and more. But don’t forget your dogs! They want to be included in all the action on your big day, and you can get them appropriately dressed for the occasion with dog formal wear.

Your dog can be part of your bridal party in a dog bridesmaid dress or best man dog shirt. A dog bowtie is an understated piece of dog formal wear if your dog would rather just wear his own coat. You can even dress a pair of dogs in a groom’s tuxedo and a bridal dress to match you and your future spouse! And, of course, your dog can be a ring bearer with a special ring-holding pillow that rests on his back and ties around his belly.

Here are just a few tips on how to help your pup make it through the summer months as a happy, healthy critter. What would apply to humans applies to our pets, tool

• Do NOT ever leave your dogs outdoors all day when it is sweltering out. If they do have to be outdoors for a short period amount of time, make sure they are always supplied with fresh, cold water.

• Do not under any circumstances take your dog in the vehicle with you even if you are going to make only one stop! Your pooch will get heat stroke. Even with the windows cracked there just isn’t enough air coming through for them.

• Dogs just love ice cubes. On hot days, I keep my dog’s water bowl full of ice cubes. She loves it! Or your pup can chew on the cubes as a treat during hot days. Who doesn’t like an ice-cold glass of H2O on a warm summer day? Be sure to check on that water bowl throughout the day. They will be drinking more frequently on hot days.
  

• If your pet likes being in the water, you can give them a special present during this season. Buy a cheap plastic pool at the store or a yard sale and fill it up with water from your hose outside. It gives them an easy way to cool off while they are playing outside.

• Another neat idea is to put a cool bandanna around your pet’s neck. We know of one that stays cool for hours, and your dog will appreciate the comfort of it.

• Just like people, dogs also enjoy the air from fans and air conditioners.

So, we hope these tips lead to a happy and cool summer dog.