Pups look so happy to be spending the afternoon at Cedarvale Ravine ... Ms. Thing, I share your joy!!
Staying Safe in the Heat
The past week in Toronto has been a scorcher. K9 Kate's dogs have been sticking to ravines and dog parks near the lake to stay safe. Still, I see people running with dogs on pavement and encouraging hyper play at the park. In light of this, I wanted to share this very helpful on article on identifying and preventing heat stroke in dogs. Enjoy!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/pets/news-features/keep-dog-cool-summer-heat/
Traveling with Fido
Many of us love to travel. Still, we find it difficult to say goodbye to our furry friends when doing so. Thanks to National Geographic for the great suggestions on how to get the best of both worlds!
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/features/best-trips/best-dog-adventures/
Best Friends at Bellwoods!
I adore this picture. Princess and Hank are so happy to be in the grass on a hot, summer day, and together with their friends, living the life. See if you can spot Dex in the background searching for his ball ... a retriever living up to his namesake!
La Vida Glamorosa
The most glamorous picture that has been and will ever be taken of my time with the doggies and I'm not even in the picture. Here are Storm and Hank living la vida glamorosa during our weekend together. The car ride was following by a romp in the dog park that returned us to our normal, dirt-covered yet joyous states, rest assured.
Staying safe in the summer heat
Billy was at Cedarvale ravine with our pups last week looking wiped as always. Many owners know to be extra cautious with flat faced pups, such as Pugs and Bulldogs when Toronto temperatures soar. Some, however, are simply not informed. Let's help protect the dogs we love by spreading the word.
Also, just a reminder: LET'S KEEP OUR PUPS OUT OF HOT CARS. I get it. I'm a dog lover. We want to bring our best friend with us everywhere.
However, a car can become deadly for a waiting dog in a mere matter of minutes.
If you know your dog will be waiting in your car, avoid bringing him out with you; leave him home in a nice air conditioned room with some toys and maybe even a PB Kong if he's been a good boy!
Wise Words from Colbert
A fear of loud noises is extremely common among dogs. Whether it's thunder or fireworks, many dogs will cower and shake when confronted with a boom or bang.
Check out Stephen Colbert's hilarious take on what's really going on below.
On a more serious note, if your pup shares this fear, consider investing in a Thunder Shirt; they can really help to calm your dog's nerves. Also, dark small areas (such as a crate) and TV to block the noise can make a world of difference!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfxJ_eUg9Uc&feature=em-subs_digest
Lake Lovin' to Ward off Ruff Monday
Dogs are a gift: they provide love, affection, and allow us to live even more active and fulfilled lives. For puppy parents heading to the office and in need of a smile, say hello to Dexter, pictured last week on our group walk at the Beaches. Some dogs may want a bone, but this Golden wants his ball!
Canada Day Run!!
What better way to honour our beautiful country than with a nod to a classic Canadian band? Give it up, please (so Canadian!), for the runners doing their thing to The Tragically Hip's 'Courage.'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmfhUd1B-xE
Promo!
All new pups starting in the months of June and July are eligible for a $5 discount per weekday run/walk throughout the summer. Just mention the PROMO CODE: powerpack.
Gaga Time
In this week's video, Laila, Tundra and Calle get in some proper exercise while running to Lady Gaga's Do What You Want. With temperatures hovering at 20 degrees, lazing about at the dog park is neither necessary nor in the interests of most dogs. Dogs, like people, must stay active AND stay safe- so lots of water, shade and rest while getting in some much needed exercise is the perfect balance for this time of year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGULyglled4
Cooler temperatures = cardio time ... and adorable music, of course!
Toronto was greeted with a return to Spring weather this week so the runners were out full throttle and kicking butt. In this video, Laila, Tundra, and Calle are joined by their new friend Palmer as they enjoy an endorphin boost and some serious fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=im1E48Lwdhc
Beat the heat
While we love running, it is getting awfully hot out there for people and pups alike!
Throughout the summer, all dogs, will be getting their exercise and fun in while staying cool at the city's best dog parks and ravines.
True to the K9 spirit of adventure, we will venture to a variety of settings including Cedarvale, High Park, and Stanley Park where your dog can run free AND enjoy the shade with his buddies.
Stay cool!
I Love it!
Check out these cuties running to I Love It :) These women are taking charge; go Laila, Tundra, and Maggie!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQwbH_mHQBQ
Gangsta's Paradise
In this video, three true "gangsters," Ms. Thing, Laila and Mags can be seen enjoying a downtown run with their best friends. The smiles on their faces say it all :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhasPrvzeo8
One More Reason to Run
Multiple sources, including the New York Times, have reported recently that 7 hours is added to your life for every hour you run. While the subjects were human, here's hoping that our canine companions receive this running reward, as they do so many others (think endorphin boost, increased heart rate, and more).
Music Video of the Week: Land Down Under
This week's video was set to Land Down Under. The stars were (drum roll, please!): Austin, Laila, Lucy, and Maggie. With less winter gear and a small pack, we were able to clock 6.5k. Nice work, team!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sqCNjspN7E
Running Tips from the Times
Finally, after a long winter of Netflix watching, spring has arrived. And with spring's arrival, people often want to get off the couch and into fighting form. I came across this helpful article in the New York Times, filled with great tips for both novice and experienced runners. Although, the writer failed to mention one great motivator: GET A HIGH ENERGY DOG WHO NEEDS TO RUN!!
https://www.nytimes.com/well/guides/how-to-start-running
Music Video of the Week: Take it all Back (Judah the Lion)
This week's video features Riley (Muppet), Laila (Ms. Thing), Hank (the Tank) and Maggie (Mags) running like the rock stars that they are. All are running beautifully in step and continue to kick butt on a daily basis despite Spring's many distractions; ahem, squirrels and sticks- we see you!
Happy First Birthday, Muppet!
Today is a momentous day in the "Life of Riley (aka Muppet)," as her lovely mom, Lisa, often refers to it. Riley has been a wonderful addition for Lisa, me, and her fellow runners, all of whom adore her. She is a playful doodle through and through, with so much love for people and puppies alike. So, once more, HAPPY BIRTHDAY RILEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!