Bone Bratz Blog

Beach Etiquette for your Dog

Many beaches around the country do not allow dogs, mainly due to the 'leash law'. However, I am fortunate to live in an area that does allow dogs on the beach, without a leash (during specific hours). If you do live near a beach that allow dogs, or are planning to visit one this summer - remember these few dog etiquette tips:

• Bring you dog to the beach early in the morning or late in the evening, when their is less people on the beach
• Always keep your dog leashed when there is a leash law
• Always clean up after your dog
• Use voice commands to control your dog if they invade other people (especially children) space on the beach
• Always pay attention to your dog and keep an eye on him/her at all times
• Do not let your dog shake water on others

Also note that most beaches can impose a LARGE fine if you do not follow that specific beach's dog rules. Where I live the fine is $150..so be informed before brining your dog on the beach

Click here to find a beach near you that is "Dog Friendly".

Help Stop Puppy Mills!

Puppy mills are businesses and are not a place to provide comfort or protect a puppy. They are mass breeding facilities that normally produce pure breeds in large numbers. These pure breeds are usually not without health issues. The list of problem with puppy mills are lack of veterinary care, lack of socialization with people, overcrowding of cages, poor food and lack of water. Some dogs are made to live their entire lives in puppy mills. These dogs are eventually disposed of or killed after they are unable to breed anymore. Dogs from puppy mills can cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars on veterinary bills down the road. Pet stores are large culprits of why puppy mills still exist today. Personally, I would advise not to purchase your puppy via a pet store. Especially if that pet store does not disclose where the puppy came from, all its papers, etc. before purchase.

A good way to stop puppy mills is by becoming more educated on breeders and the purchasing of puppies. A lot of people think they are asking the right questions when buying a puppy. It's best to be prepared. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has developed 2 educational flyers (PDF format) for anyone who is thinking about getting a full bred puppy should read. Print them out and pass them out!
How to Find a Good Breeder
How to Buy a Puppy
Watch this video produced by the HSUS on puppy mills:VIDEO
STOP PUPPY MILLS

Have you heard about BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation)?

If you haven't heard about this..READ ON! Breed-Specific Legislation are laws that city and state ordinances are attempting to pass that are focused on BANNING certain breeds that are considered 'dangerous'. The motivation behind these laws are an attempt to reduce the number of dog attacks. If BSL is passed in your city/state, all dogs of the banned breed will have to follow strict policies -  such as having the dog muzzled when in public, obtaining liability insurance, and restriction of dogs to stay on the owners property at all times with proper enclosure (that means no walks in the park)!  Currently the following breeds are being considered dangerous breeds: