DOG WALKING 101

Whether you dog is a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, it needs exercise. And so does the dog's owner. Walking your dog can be great exercise and a good bonding experience between you and your pet. Here are some tips to help get the most out of your dog walking experience-

THE EQUIPMENT:
Just like any exercise program dog walking has a few things you need to have fun and get started

A Leash- I recommend you don't go cheap here, I use and love a FOZZY DOG ROPE LEASH(In fact a Fozzy Double leash, which I got for a discount at FAB.com*, It has a convenient pocket and a nice feel on the hand grip and is sturdy built. But you don't have to spend that kind of money on your leash- A good sturdy leash can be found at pet stores and even in the grocery store *Fab.com is a great place to finds all kind of things for pets and people too sometimes at ridiculously low prices

COLLAR VS. HARNESS: Both my boys wear collars. They both have harnesses. I chose to use the collar simply because they are well familiar with wearing it and being leashed (They know not to pull so much they choke themselves) Some dogs are naturals, some aren't. And I am apt to put the harnesses on when I know we will be walking in crowds, for control. Some say that the harness is easier on the dog, especially if he/she is the type to run onto the end of the leash when seeing people or their dog type friends. Either way, make sure to get one that has no studs or grommets going through the leather/fabric that leave raw metal on the inside of the leash/collar- this could irritate the dogs skin, and in some cases cut or scratch it.

POOP BAGS: A necessity when walking your dog. You don't want to be that guy who leaves your dog's poop on the sidewalk or open space. It's called common courtesy. And besides dog poop has bacteria that can get in to water supplies. Just pick it up. It's good citizenship, good manners and good for the environment!

OPTIONAL ITEMS:
WATER BOTTLE- Your dog may like a drink, especially on hot days. I just carry a regular Stainless water bottle and a collapsible bowl, although I was given a neat water bottle made just for dogs this Christmas.

UMBRELLA- A small, collapsible umbrella is good if you live in an area that rains when you try to walk your dog.

FLASHLIGHT- A small flashlight is a must if you walk your dogs at night. And working nights I do. I have one that has a red LED flasher so I can be seen by cars.

COATS AND RAIN GEAR: there are a number of raincoats for dogs out there. As for jackets and sweaters- My two guys wear jackets when it gets cold out and since the both have short haircuts they don't like to get cold.

SUIT UP:What YOU need for the walk
Comfortable walking shoes- Let's face it... you are not going to want to walk your dog if your feet ache and hurt.

Rainproof Jacket: self explanitory

A cap or visor- No sunburns!!!

Walked 'N Talked

 Well Romeo and I led the WABI Monthly Walk N Talk yesterday - 12 People came out to walk what I lovingly call the Highline Hooky Route... A complete circle around my old High School, never actually going in. The weather was warm and overcast, perfect weather for a nice walk.
Romeo was actually exhausted at the end of the walk. A few stopped in at local establishments for a cool beverage afterwards. It is so good to meet local folks and have a good time walking through city neighborhoods.

Burien Brat Trot!

What so you think of a fat boy joining in a race? No I am not going to do the 5K, maybe I will do the 1.2 Short course walk. But in any case I went to the Brat Trot website and sponsored a child and put in $20 for a pair of running shoes.. So I am participating if all I do is sit in one of Burien's Fine eateries and fill up on brats. The sacrifices I make for a good cause!

Personal Evolution

Now I am not getting in to argument of Creationism versus Darwinism, but rather talking about my own personal evolution. I am thinking (brace yourselves)… of selling my ’79 MGB and my 66 Plymouth.
These cars were great fun, if not a bit of a money pit, and a lot of work. But my tastes and interests are evolving. I am more interested in Bicycles, electric bikes and scooters, and walking. A bit more healthy and such. And a hell of a lot cheaper. I have always prided myself that my “classic” cars get great mileage and such, but in today’s economy, with the State, County and City trying to make money by adding users fees and such it is getting to be a bit much. And I don’t drive them as much as I Should or use to. Sometimes you just have to say good bye to childish things. (Big sentiment considering I am thinking of giving them up for bicycles!) But then I have to consider the following… the financial and environmental foot print keeping these vehicles, and do I really enjoy them anymore? And if I am being honest, I would have to say I don’t. I really desire the space in my garage, and I really don’t look forward to spending a whole day under a vehicle anymore. In short I am getting older. And I am in need of new toys. Time to get rid of the old!

Walking a hiking trail

I decided romeo needed some exercise, and that it wouldn't hurt me either... so off we went on a nature trail near the house....

Apparently there is a flat-tailed beaver Castor canadensis on the trail.

Not this particular guy!

Didn't see any dams in the stream though.

One Word:

SNAKE!!!

This little fellow was having a siesta on this cut stump.