Doggone Etiquette —

Driving You Crazy!

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dog:                           

You got through the Big Day in one piece, but how’s the rest of the weekend (or the week, for that matter) working out? Are your VIPeople all mellow fellows? Or, are they still keyed up and raring to go? The latter could be shopping, partying, or more football — none of which includes you dogs. Unlike your fellow canines in the rest of the world, dogs in this country don’t “go shopping” except maybe an occasional trip to a pet shop if dogs are allowed. Partying may include you, if you’re very good or happen to be visiting family or friends for the weekend. Are you doing okay, or is all the hubbub driving you crazy? That’s a loaded question. We’ll take it up with your people.

A Word to the Dog’s Owner:

Let’s hope that your dear, obedient, well-mannered Rufus behaved perfectly over the holiday and made you proud to be the owner of such a wonderful dog! Enough said. Alternatively, he may have driven you crazy poking his nose into everything from carefully prepared appetizers to Aunt Mary’s suitcase!                             

This is just the first of the winter holidays. There are lots of things to take seriously now and in the weeks ahead. One is the fact that Rufus may be driving in the car with you. In that case, let’s hope that he is not driving you — or the car — crazy! If your dog has to be in a kennel while you are away, there’s still the drive to and from the kennel. If you are taking the dog along to visit, there’s the drive to and from wherever the friends or relatives live. Now if you are going Christmas shopping, leave Rufus at home! No dog should be left in a car, perhaps in a crowded parking lot, for who knows what length of time.                      

In cold weather the car windows are more apt to be closed which eliminates the canine escape route, but safety is still a major concern. Everyone riding in the car must use a seat belt. That’s the law. Rufus also needs a safety device. (That law could be next.) Harnesses for dogs are made to be attached to the seat belt so Rufus is secured to the seat, but NOT on the front seat for two good reasons.

An exploding air bag could cause serious injury to Rufus.  Plus, the driver doesn’t need to be distracted by the antics of a friendly dog sitting beside him!  A crate in the back of the car is the best if there’s room.

Some big dogs are good about staying put on their special blanket on the rear seat.  But there are many others that are all too anxious to take over the driving – or to drive you crazy            

It is just as important to ignore the dog when driving as it is to ignore the use of your cell phone. Distractions, especially with winter road conditions, can lead to disaster. If the dog is driving you crazy (howling, barking, pawing, etc), pull off the road, stop the car and use a firm disciplinary voice the dog understands. (Chalk one up to your good obedience training!) Starting out by giving Rufus a favorite chew toy in his crate or segregated area can often prevent this chaos.  

Another warning connected to holiday travel is to be sure the dog is securely on-lead, and you have a firm grip on the other end of it, before opening the car door to let him out. Be sure any kids tumbling out of the car know this rule, too. Too many dogs do that “free at last” leap out of the car and are promptly hit by another car, or become lost. When you’ve parked the car in your own driveway or garage, Rufus no doubt knows exactly where he is and when he’ll be allowed to get out.  A car door opening in unknown territory, however, could easily spell danger. Keep this warning in mind if your dog seldom travels in the car because he might plan an escape to avoid what he’s sure is a visit to the vet’s office!

Until next time – BE GOOD!

- Bardi