Author Archives: westwinddt

This was published in a shorter version in Northern Virginia Today – it did not make it to the paper’s website so I am blogging it.  The loss of a beloved pet is never easy.  However, what you do as … Continue reading →

In the past I have covered the risks of extending (also called retracting) leashes which allow dogs to get up to twenty-five feet or more from the owner depending on the brand. Most people know I do not like these … Continue reading →

I have consulted with owners who were facing problems because a dog was put in a position where something happened.  Some incidents involved the dog going after someone.  Some cases involved a bite.  Other cases involved damage dogs did to … Continue reading →

It was tough. At home mom with a military contracted spouse who travelled a lot.  Three younger children and a puppy.  Mom wanted the puppy to help teach the kids responsibility and such.  However, Mom also described her children as … Continue reading →

The more I travel with dogs, the more I see an increasing number of hotels and motels are becoming less pet friendly. Some complaints I hear from dog owners include hotels they used to love no longer allowing pets and … Continue reading →

Expanded version of pieces written for Northern Virginia Today and published in May 2017.  These are sister articles regarding touch and our dogs.  The same applies to cats! __________________________________________________________________________________________ Would you race up to a total stranger and give a … Continue reading →

Yes, another piece from Northern Virginia Today I expanded for here.   “My dog won’t stop begging,” is a common owner complaint. You are eating or cooking, Sparky comes over to investigate what you are doing. This is normal.  My … Continue reading →