Doggone Etiquette —

Happy Holidays!

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dog:

It’s finally here! All the fun and excitement leading up to this big holiday hits the peak this weekend! Are you ready? Let’s hope there will be lots of presents for you since you’ve been such a good dog. Be sure not to bark at things you don’t happen to recognize. For example, the big fellow in the red suit is a good guy (he likes dogs), and if you happen to see reindeer on the roof, barking won’t send them back into the woods. It’s all part of Christmas, and you may never know what any of it has to do with anything else. Accept it! The kids may encourage you to join them in the wee hours when they sneak a peak at what’s under the tree. You can look, but – please – do not stick your nose (or paws) in any of it, even if the kids do. Your adult VIPeople will let you know exactly how, when, and where you can join in the fun by opening your own surprise presents.

A Word to the Dog’s Owner:

This can be a hard weekend for Rufus. What with everything else you have going on, he may feel ignored, so a few kind words and some especially affectionate pats will help see him through the confusion.

There is one important thing the entire family needs to watch out for, and that is the dog’s safety. Veterinarians have confirmed that more of our dogs undergo physical disasters at this time of year than at any other. Decorations on the Christmas tree as well as all the other ornaments we put on display both indoors and outdoors get the dog’s attention, not as pretty objects, but as intriguing new toys. Once in the dog’s mouth, however, they are the cause of numerous injuries such as cuts in the mouth, tongue, and throat. When swallowed, the pieces can cause irreparable internal damage. Shiny ribbons, bows, and crinkly gift papers also look like fun stuff to Rufus, but they too can cause choking or worse.

So, amid all the festivities, keep a watchful eye on your pal. He’s not being naughty, just a normally curious canine! The last thing you need over this holiday weekend is a frightening trip to the emergency vet clinic.

Okay, let’s move on. With that warning out of the way, perhaps you could teach Rufus a Christmas carol or two? Or maybe get him to jog to Jingle Bells. Seriously, however, do remember his need for a bit of exercise. If we’re lucky enough to have snow, try out those skis that were under the tree. Or it may be cold enough to get on the ice with the new skates. Just be sure to include Rufus! Dogs of all sizes manage to pull people given the right circumstances. Trees pose an obvious problem – downhill skiing requires a clear slope, especially when you’re attached to a gung-ho dog. Ice hockey might be a bit dangerous what with sticks and that very hard puck, but regular skating is easy for both the skater and Rufus the puller. Try racing – Rufus vs. Shaggy with each attached to their favorite person, of course.

After all this excitement, Rufus and his very good, most important person may enjoy nothing more than a quiet nap by the fire. Go for it!                                 

Until next time – BE GOOD!

- Bardi

Bardi McLennan bred, trained and showed Welsh Terriers for 30 years, during which time she wrote a monthly column on canine behavior in Dog Fancy Magazine. In addition to contributing to numerous dog publications, she has written 15 books on dogs, the latest being Rescue Me!, which received the ASPCA Humane Issues Award in 2008.