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Category Archives: Caring For Your Dog

A New Year of Adventures With Your Dog

A new year is the perfect time to think about how we can give our dogs the best possible life in 2026. For many of us, that means setting goals—not just for ourselves, but for our four-legged family members too.

Get moving together.

Whether it’s daily walks, weekend hikes, or even jogging, exercising with your dog is one of the easiest ways to improve both your health and theirs. Regular movement helps maintain healthy joints, builds endurance, and strengthens the bond you share.

Focus on healthy weight and nutrition.

Proper diet and portion control play a huge role in your dog’s long-term health. Every dog is different, and finding the right balance can make a world of difference in energy, mobility, and overall well-being. Paws In Time’s owner and founder, Julie Nelson, is especially passionate about canine nutrition and is always happy to help guide you toward the right food choices and quantities for your dog.

Let your dog be a dog.

Dogs thrive when they’re given opportunities to play, socialize, and burn off energy. Daycare isn’t just fun—it supports mental stimulation, confidence, and healthy behavior. Time with other dogs allows them to do what they were born to do.

Plan ahead for travel and busy seasons.

Vacations, family events, and work trips are much easier when you plan early. Boarding spots fill up quickly, especially around holidays and peak travel times. Reserving ahead ensures your dog has a safe, familiar place to stay—and gives you peace of mind knowing they’re well cared for.

Make 2026 a year of intention.

Small, consistent choices add up. More movement, better nutrition, meaningful play, and thoughtful planning all contribute to a happier, healthier dog—and a stronger relationship with you.

Here’s to a new year filled with wagging tails, muddy paws, and lots of joy. 🐾

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Dogs and Christmas- Keeping Your Pet Safe and Engaged

The Christmas holiday season is magical for the whole family, including your dog! While it can be fun for your dog, there are some things to be careful about. Here’s how to navigate Christmas with your dog in mind:

Things to Be Careful About

  1. Holiday Foods: Many festive treats are unsafe for dogs. Avoid chocolate, raisins, nuts, and anything with artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Instead, keep your dog on their regular diet to avoid digestive upset.
  2. Decorations: Tinsel, ornaments, and lights can be tempting for curious dogs. Keep breakables out of reach, and secure the tree to prevent tipping. Use pet-safe cords to avoid chewing hazards.
  3. Gifts Under the Tree: If gifts include food or scented items, your dog might investigate. Keep them wrapped and elevated to avoid accidental “unwrapping.”
  4. Holiday Plants: Mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are toxic to dogs. Opt for faux alternatives or place plants where your dog can’t reach. Poinsettias have a bad reputation but this is mostly an urban myth. If eaten they will cause mild symptoms like vomiting, drooling and runny stools. More serious symptoms are rare as the toxicity is generally low.

 

Fun Things to Do with Your Dog

  1. Festive Walks: Take your dog for a walk to see holiday lights. It’s great exercise and a chance for them to enjoy new sights and smells and to practice your meet and greets (ask Julie Nelson how to best meet others on a walk, and see her past blogs at www.lifestyledogtraining.com)
  2. Doggy Christmas Stockings: Fill a stocking with dog-safe treats, toys, and chews for your pet to enjoy on Christmas morning. They love to join in on the present opening fun!
  3. Photos with Santa: Many pet-friendly venues offer Santa photos for pets. It’s a fun way to capture holiday memories.
  4. Homemade Treats: Bake holiday-themed dog treats, like peanut butter cookies or pumpkin snacks, for your pet to enjoy. Recipes may be found online.

 

Holiday Pet Safety Tips

  • Monitor guests to ensure doors and gates stay closed to prevent your dog from escaping.
  • Give your dog a quiet space for retreat if the festivities get overwhelming. Often the best option is to bring them to Paws In Time for daycare, and boarding is always a great option as well.
  • Supervise interactions between children and your dog to ensure everyone stays safe and happy.

 

With a little preparation, Christmas can be a joyful and safe time for you and your dog. Including your pup in the holiday fun strengthens your bond and makes the season even more special! Merry Christmas!

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