Through the year I make a point of trying to stay grateful for all the blessings bestowed upon me. This is particularly true during November as Thanksgiving approaches. I try to carve out time in my day--especially during my pack walks--to reflect on my life because it makes me a better person - someone that I can squarely look in the eye. 

Life can be messy and difficult and downright hard. But, no matter what, dogs always make me laugh and feel loved. For that, I am truly grateful. So, here's to all of you who have handed me your beloved dogs to train with trust and safekeeping. Each and every one of them has left a paw print on my heart and for this, I am truly grateful.

In this issue of The Carolina Dog Times, you'll read some Thanksgiving tips in "Talking Turkey for Dogs!" and information about our upcoming and final Learn & Burn Graduate Pack Walk of 2014!

Elaine

 

• If you cannot resist giving your lovable pups a special turkey treat, be sure it's only a little white meat turkey rather than dark meat or skin. Dark meat and skin can be extremely difficult to digest and might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and/or vomiting.

 

• Be sure that your cooked or even uncooked turkey is safely out of reach from your dogs so that they cannot jump onto the counter top and dig in while you're busy setting the table.

 

• Don't leave leftover pieces of foil, cord, string, skin or bones on any accessible surfaces. They may be calling "Eat Me!" to your dogs.

 

• When you do sit down to enjoy that long-awaited meal, be sure that your dogs have been well-exercised because a tired dog is inevitably a happy dog!

 

• And, lastly, if you do suspect that your dogs have ingested anything they shouldn't have, call your veterinarian immediately.

 

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! And, remember, use those turkey bones for soup--not treats!