ON THE ROAD WITH A PET THIS SUMMER

June 2003 — More Americans than ever will be traveling by car for vacation this summer, responding to concerns about terrorism, SARS and the weak economy.

A road trip presents a unique opportunity to bring along the family pet, something difficult to do when traveling by air. But making car travel comfortable for Fido and Fluffy takes advance planning, says the pet care experts at Best Friends Pet Care.

• Know Your Pet. Before making any arrangements, consider your pet's temperament. Many dogs enjoy a car ride around town, but some pets simply cannot tolerate car trips. If your pet gets car sick on the way to the vet, don't subject him or her to a week in the car.
• Think about Health. If you are traveling to a different area of the country, especially in the woods or countryside, your pet may be exposed to new diseases and parasites not common to your home region. Check with your veterinarian for advice.
• Consider your Destination. It's best to leave your pet behind if you plan to visit sites that are not pet-friendly. It's simply unfair to leave your pet alone in a strange hotel room.

If you decide that your pet is a good traveler and that your destination is pet-friendly, it's time to start planning. Steps for successful travel with a pet include:

• Book Lodging Early. While more hotels and motels are opening rooms to travelers with pets, those accommodations can fill up quickly. Call early and ask about any restrictions, especially if you have a large or very active dog. If your hotel won't accept pets, check for nearby boarding kennels. Be sure to make boarding reservations in advance, or there might not be room at the inn.
• Prepare Identification Tags. Be sure your pet is wearing two sets of identification - one for your destination, and one for home. If he gets lost or separated from you during the trip, you want someone who finds him to be able to contact you right away - not after you arrive home. Bring along an extra set - just in case.
• Bring an Extra Leash. Pack an extra leash and collar and use them, so your pet won't get separated from you in unfamiliar territory. You don't want your pet to disappear into the woods when you stop at a rest area on the highway.

Once underway, don't forget your pet's special needs:

• Stop for Stretch Breaks. You should make a stop about every two hours to give your pet a chance to get out and stretch.
• Offer Plenty of Water. Always carry fresh water and offer it to your pet frequently so he won't become dehydrated.
• Don't Leave Pets in the Car. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. The temperature in a car can spike suddenly, putting your pet at risk for heat stroke.

If you decide that a road trip is simply not right for your pet, be sure to make a reservation at your hometown boarding kennel soon. Good boarding kennels fill up quickly during the peak summer vacation season.

How do you find a quality kennel? "Look for a facility that offers a structured routine and frequent contact with caring, warm humans," says Dan Charleton of Best Friends. "Be sure to visit any kennel you are considering. Just drop in during business hours to get a true picture of the facility. If the staff won't give you a tour without an appointment, find another kennel."

For more information on traveling with pets or finding a quality boarding kennel, go to www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

Best Friends Pet Care Inc. is the largest company in the pet hospitality business, providing pet boarding, grooming, training and related services at 37 locations nationwide. The company operates Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

NEED AN EXERCISE COMPANION? TAKE THE FAMILY DOG

May 2003 — Spring brings with it an urge get outdoors and get in shape. Walking, running or jogging are great exercise, but can be tedious without a companion.

Why not take the family dog? Most dogs enjoy the exercise and the companionship of a run or jog. However, before you grab your running shoes and his leash, it's important to be sure you're prepared. The professional dog trainers at Best Friends Pet Resorts offer the following advice for running or jogging with a dog.

Get a good leash.
The leash is your most important piece of equipment, whether you are hitting the road or trails. Best Friends trainer Mark Renick recommends using a six-foot lead for running. "It's long enough so you won't step on your dog, but short enough so you can keep him under control."

No matter how well-trained your dog, adds Renick, it's a bad idea to walk or run with him off-leash. "It only takes an instant for a dog to dart off in pursuit of a squirrel and be hit by a car or truck". Renick's own dog, Sheba, a well-trained, 8-year-old German Shepherd, is never off-lead on the street.

Brush up on training
Walking or running with your dog will be a battle if your pet doesn't have basic obedience skills. Your dog should consistently sit, stay and come on command.

If your pet has spent most of the winter indoors, he may need to brush-up on his training. Some backyard practice before the first run is probably a good idea.

It's essential, say Renick, that your dog know how to heel. Heeling will keep your pet's front legs even with yours so he won't be lagging behind with you dragging him, or out front, pulling you along

If you and your pet have never taken an obedience course, now is a good time to enroll in one to get ready for this new activity together. Best Friends offer on-site training classes at many of its resorts. For information, call 888-FOR-PETS.

Check with your vet
After a long inactive winter, your dog may be as out of shape as you are. If she hasn't had a recent check-up, a visit to the vet is called for. Your vet will check for heart and lung function and look for any joint problems that need to be considered.

Your vet can also give you specific recommendations based upon your dog's breed, age and general condition.

Start out slowly
Just as you wouldn't try to run a marathon on your first day out, don't expect your dog to be ready for a 2-mile run. Start slowly, alternating some running with lots of walking. Renick suggests running no more than a half-mile run the first time out. Gradually add distance as your pet builds endurance.

Dogs are eager to please and may follow out of loyalty and affection - even when hurting. It's up to you to pay attention to signals that you are reaching your pet's limit. If he appears to be struggling, slow down and walk for a while.

Almost any breed of dog can be a suitable running partner. For more on running with your pet, visit the Best Friends website at www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

IS YOUR PET READY FOR SUMMER VACATION?

May 2003 — Memorial Day Weekend, the official beginning of summer vacation season, comes early this year. In the flurry of booking air travel, making hotel reservations, and choosing rental cars, many vacationers forget they need to plan the family pet's vacation, too.

But how do you make sure that your family feline or canine enjoys his summer vacation as much as you do yours? Dan Charleton, of Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons, the largest pet boarding company in the U.S. offers the following advice on preparing your pet for summer vacation.

Step 1: Find a Quality Kennel
The first step is to find a quality boarding facility for your pet, says Charleton. "Look for a kennel that offers a structured routine, round-the-clock monitoring of eating, play and elimination behaviors, and frequent contact with caring, warm humans."

He offers the following tips for selecting a boarding kennel.

• Visit any facility you are considering. Use your eyes, ears and nose to evaluate it. Does the place look and smell clean? Are the quarters large enough for your pet to move about? How does the staff interact with their pet guests?
• Ask questions. Is there exercise or play time available? What about bathing and grooming services? Will they feed special diets and give medication if required? Is there 24-hour on-call veterinarian care?
• Check references. A good kennel will readily provide names and phone numbers of satisfied customers whom you can call.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pet
Making reservations for your pet isn't all you need to do, notes Charleton.

• Update your pet's vaccinations. A top-quality kennel will require proof that they are up-to-date. Take your pet to the veterinarian one to two weeks in advance of your departure date.
• Purchase a supply of your pet's medications and special food (if any). Pack a familiar toy for your pet's stay, but don't bring his favorite in case of possible loss.
• Prepare a list of contacts. Include your veterinarian's phone number, your contact information at your vacation destination, and a local contact to serve as your "backup" in an emergency if you can't be reached.

Step 3: Enjoy your vacation
When you deliver your pet to the boarding kennel, give him an affectionate good-bye and leave. Use a happy tone of voice, and he will feel reassured. Don't linger or cause a prolonged farewell scene; this will only create anxiety for your pet.

If this is your pet's first time boarding, and you are anxious, make arrangements with the kennel; staff to call and check on how he's doing, says Charleton. "A quality kennel will understand that pets are part of the family and will be happy to take a call from a worried pet owner."

For more information on choosing a quality boarding facility, visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

Best Friends Pet Care Inc. is the largest company in the pet hospitality business, providing pet boarding, grooming, training and related services at 37 locations nationwide. The company operates Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

KEEP YOUR PETS VACCINATIONS UP-TO-DATE

March 2003 — One of the most important things pet owners can do to protect their pets' health is to keep immunizations current. Just as they do in humans, vaccines against infectious diseases reduce sickness and suffering.

Yet many dog owners allow their pet's immunizations to lapse, or skip some vaccines altogether, say the pet care experts at Best Friends Pet Care, a national provider of pet care services.

One vaccine that dog owners may be skipping is Bordetella, which is administered to protect against canine cough, a highly contagious disease that is the canine equivalent of the flu. The disease affects the dog's respiratory system, causing a dry, hacking cough and nasal discharge.

Once associated primarily with boarding kennels, dogs can pick up canine cough anywhere there are other dogs. With the good weather approving, dogs will be spending more time in the company of other dogs and are at the greatest risk of exposure.

"Pet owners enjoy the companionship of their pets, and love showing them off," says Dan Charleton of Best Friends. "Dogs are often in situations where they are with groups of dogs, increasing the likelihood of exposure to a dog infected with canine cough."

Much as human contact helps transmit the flu, dog contact spreads bordetella. In fact, a dog can contract it from just one exposure to a single infected animal. And, while canine cough is a "self-limiting" disease that will normally resolve itself in two to three weeks, it can make the dog very uncomfortable and can sometimes lead to a more serious secondary infection.

"The canine cough vaccine is an inexpensive form of insurance against an unpleasant disease," says Charleton, "which is why Best Friends requires the vaccine for dogs that are boarding at all Best Friends Pet Resorts & Salons nationwide."

Charleton notes that while Best Friends insists upon an annual update of the vaccine, some veterinarians recommend administering it twice a year -- especially for dogs who are frequently in contact with other dogs.

"For an indoor dog that is rarely in contact with other dogs, the vaccine may not be required," adds Charleton. "But the best way to determine whether or not your pet needs this vaccine is to discuss it with your vet."

Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons provide dog and cat boarding, grooming, dog training and related services at 37 locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia. For further information, contact Best Friends at 1-888-FOR-PETS or visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

IS YOUR PET SHEDDING? THESE GROOMING TIPS CAN HELP

April 2003 — Spring means that the trees are budding, the daffodils are blooming …and your pet is shedding.

But, it doesn't have to mean clumps of fur around the house, says Val Penstone, Director of Grooming for Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons. With a little extra attention to grooming, you can cut down on the mess of shedding, and keep your pets' skin and coat healthy and insect-free.

Penstone, who has more than 35 years experience in the professional grooming industry, and has been winner and judge at top grooming competitions, recommends that a grooming routine include the following:

• Brush and comb weekly, more often for pets with long hair. Use a conditioning and untangling spray before brushing, for your pet's comfort,. After systematically brushing through the coat, use a professional steel-pinned comb to make sure that all the knots and shedding hair have been removed.
• Shampoo regularly to keep shedding and allergies under control. Use only a shampoo formulated specifically for pets because animals have a different skin pH than people. Always follow with a conditioning rinse.
• Start flea and tick controls. Now is the time to begin a prevention program to protect your pet against fleas and ticks. Your vet or groomer can recommend the product that's best for our pet.

If your pet is shedding heavily, consider a trip to the salon. " Professional grooming that includes massage bathing and conditioning followed by drying with specialized equipment will loosen large quantities of shedding hair - and leave them on the salon floor instead of on your carpets and furniture," says Penstone.

However, don't expect your groomer to be able to brush out a longhaired dog if you have neglected his coat all winter. It is extremely difficult to brush out a badly-matted coat; it will also be uncomfortable for the pet, and expensive for the pet owner. A better choice may be to clip under the tangles and start again, this time brushing regularly.

For help with grooming problems, visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com or call 888-FOR-PETS.

PUPPY LOVE? A VALENTINE FOR YOUR "BEST FRIEND"

February 2003 — Call it "puppy love". More than three-quarters of all pet owners in America give gifts to their pets on special occasions like Valentine's Day.

But forget the candy and flowers. What your best friend really wants is a nice new rawhide chew, some yummy dog treats or perhaps, a day at the spa. Absurd? Not at all, says Val Penstone, National Director of Grooming for Best Friends Pet Resorts & Salons. In fact, February is a great time to give your dog a mid-winter make-over.

"In the winter months, grooming is often neglected. Your pet can end up with matted hair that can cause redness, irritation and odor. And with the windows closed and heaters on, low humidity can make your pet's skin and coat dry and scaly. A thorough grooming will leave your pet clean and comfortable from head to toe - and much nicer to be near."

The spa treatment
To give your pet a spa treatment at home, begin by bathing him with a good quality moisturizing shampoo. Rinse thoroughly, and follow with a conditioning rinse. For a deep moisturizing treatment, Penstone recommends applying the conditioner, then wrapping your pet in a towel for about five minutes to let the conditioner penetrate. Rinse thoroughly.

Only use shampoos and conditioners intended for pets, notes Penstone. "Animal's skin has a different pH from human's, so you should never use your own hair care products on your pet." Penstone recommends Nova Pearls shampoos and conditioners, which are specifically formulated for pets. If you're unsure about the right products for your pet's skin and coat, ask a professional groomer for recommendations.

Don't forget the manicure. Since dogs spend less time out-of-doors during the winter months, their nails need more frequent clipping. Routine walking and playing outdoors helps to naturally file nails. So you'll need to check your pooch's nails and trim just the tips off.

Take it to a professional
If the thought of a wet dog shaking himself dry in your living room is frightening, you might prefer to have a professional pamper your pet. Best Friends Pet Resorts & Salons locations nationwide offer complete grooming packages.

For longer coated breeds, Penstone suggests a trim rather than a close haircut at this time of year. However, all coat types benefit from a mid-winter shampoo and brush-out. Buddy will come home clean, relaxed, and looking so good, you'll want to lavish him with kisses and cuddles.

For more Valentine's Day gift ideas or grooming for your pet, call 1-888-FOR-PETS or go to www.bestfriendpetcare.com.

PETS SUFFER WINTER BLUES, TOO

January 2003 —Severe winter weather - like that experienced across major portions of the county over the past week - can cause "cabin fever" or "winter blues" in humans. Less well know is that pets, especially dogs, can suffer from wintertime depression too.

Heavy snow, wind and cold temperatures often means that the family dog has fewer opportunities for outdoor exercise and play. Energetic breeds and young dogs requiring lots of active play can become frustrated at being trapped indoors all day.

Unfortunately, pets may tell you how they are feeling with a variety of problem behaviors -- from barking and howling, to chewing furniture or messing in the house.

Stimulate his body and mind
The best thing for both dog and owner is to bundle up and brave the elements for a long walk or run together. But that's not always easy.

Best Friends professional dog trainers say there are a variety of other ways to help your dog fight winter boredom.

Interactive toys can keep a dog active and occupied during the day, while you're away at work or school. Fill a "buster cube" with his kibble, or stuff a Kong with peanut butter, cheese or another favorite treat. "Hunting" to get his meal will give him both physical and mental stimulation while you're gone.

Try day care
A good alternative to lonely days at home alone is to send your dog to day care, a service offered by many boarding kennels, including Best Friends 37 locations nationwide. Dogs spend the day quartered in the facility's kennel, but receive special attention from kennel staff. The structured routine, which includes playtime, coupled with frequent human contact throughout the day helps most pets overcome their wintertime blues.

To find a quality day care facility for your pet, look for a quality boarding kennel. Use your senses to evaluate the facility. Does the place look and smell clean? Are the quarters large enough for your pet to move about? Is there exercise or playtime available during the day? Look for a structured routine, monitoring throughout the day, and frequent contact with caring, warm humans.

Camp for dogs
Some dogs need doggy day camp, a program that allows dogs to socialize and exercise in a safe, supervised environment. Because camp provides exercise and socialization, it can help diminish negative behaviors at home, and dogs benefit by participating just once or twice each week.

Selecting a day camp program for your pet has much in common with choosing a day care program for your child. Look for a clean, safe, healthy environment run by highly-qualified and well-trained people. Take the time to visit the facility and ask lots of questions of the staff, as well as clients of the program.

Best Friends offers Doggy Day Camp on weekdays at selected locations. To qualify, a dog must be at least five months old, spayed or neutered, with up-to-date vaccinations.
Prospective campers and owners are interviewed to ensure they can benefit from the program and a "pet personality profile" is developed covering every aspect of the dog's health, behavior and family life.

For more information about doggy day care or day camp, call 888-FOR-PETS or visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com on the web.

Best Friends Pet Resorts and Salons provide pet boarding, grooming, training and related services at 37 locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

NEWEST SERVICE FOR PAMPERED PETS: MASSAGE THERAPY GOES TO THE DOGS

January 2003 — Americans love their pets. We send them to doggy day camp, schedule playdates at the dog park, and buy them birthday gifts.

Now, Indianapolis area canine companions can even indulge in a massage therapy session at the local pet resort.

Best Friends Pet Resort & Salon in Castleton has added canine massage therapy to its list of offerings. Dawn Buman, a certified canine kinesthetic, joined the staff of Best Friends in December and has been providing "hands on" sessions for a variety of canine guests.

"There are so many benefits to massage therapy," said Buman, who received her certification at the Arizona Canine Academy in August 2001. "It promotes good circulation and flexibility, and relieves arthritic pain." Other benefits include helping pets heal from emotional or physical trauma, increasing socialization with humans, and improving muscle tone. Massage by a professional can also detect lumps or growths that may go unnoticed by traditional petting.

"We're pleased to offer this service to the Indianapolis community," said Jennifer Stumpf, manager of Best Friends Castleton. "Our customers think of their pets as members of the family, and want them to receive the best possible care and attention. Canine massage can be a rewarding part of their treatment."

The response from pet clients -- and their owners - has been enthusiastic. "It may take the dog a few minutes to figure out what's going on," she said, "but then he will actually present me with the areas that are hurting." After a session, the difference in the dog's movements is immediate and very evident, she added.

Canine massage therapy is available in conjunction with Best Friends boarding or grooming services, or can be scheduled as a service by itself. Fee is $20 for a 30-minute session. Appointments are necessary and may be booked by calling (317) 841-8182. Best Friends Pet Resort & Salon is located at 8224 Bash Street.

Best Friends Pet Care is a national company providing boarding, grooming, training and related pet care services at more than three dozen locations nationwide. For more information, visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

KEEP PETS SAFE FROM WINTER'S WOES

December 2003 — Winter brings a variety of health and safety issues for pets. Even in areas of the country that aren't normally affected by snow and ice storms, shorter days and inclement weather can put pets as risk for winter illness.

The pet care experts at Best Friends offer the following suggestions to help pet owners protect their best friends from health and safety concerns during the winter:

Keep up regular exercise
Shorter days and long, cold nights provide a great excuse for lingering in front of the fireplace. But, like their human companions, dogs confined indoors because of winter weather will lack proper exercise and are likely to gain weight.

On days when the weather permits, say Best Friends trainers, be sure your dog gets a good long walk or a romp with canine friends at the dog park. Be sure to tailor the activity and the time spent outdoors to your specific pet, taking into account such factors as age, health and breed.

Some breeds can tolerate the cold for longer periods of time than others. Breeds like Huskies and Samoyeds will romp and play outdoors as long as you'll let them. Small breeds and dogs with short coats should wear a sweater or specially-made doggie jacket when venturing out on very cold days.

Groom for wellness
Wintertime can be tough on skin and hair - not just for humans, but for pets, as well. With windows closed and heaters on, low humidity indoors can make your pet's skin dry and itchy and can cause static electricity in his coat.

Weekly home maintenance can help to keep your pet comfortable and his skin and coat healthy all winter, according to pet grooming professionals at Best Friends. Frequent brushing stimulates the natural oils in the skin and helps to counteract dryness.

And, contrary to popular opinion, pets do need regular shampooing during the winter months to keep skin and coat healthy. In fact, done properly, a bath can help to reduce dryness, matting and related skin problems.

With fewer hours of exercise, nails can become overgrown because they are not being worn down with normal activity. More frequent clipping of dog's nails is important during the winter months.

Beware of winter chemicals
Antifreeze is extremely poisonous and as little as a few teaspoonsful can kill a small dog or a cat. Unfortunately, the chemical has a sweet taste that animals like, so it's critical to keep it out of reach and clean up even small amounts that drip onto the floor or driveway. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, call your veterinarian immediately. This is a medical emergency.

Chemicals used to melt ice on sidewalks and streets can cause cracking and irritation to pets' feet. Wash toes and pads with warm water after walks to remove any residue. Your professional groomer can suggest a protective product that can help.

With a little bit of extra care, pets can stay safe and healthy during the harshest months of the year. For more information about winter pet safety, see the winter issue of Between Friends® at www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

Best Friends Pet Care, which offers pet boarding, grooming, daycare, training and retail, owns and operates 37 pet resorts located in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

HOLIDAY SEASON JOBS ABOUND FOR PET LOVERS

November 2002 —Jobs may be scarce in many industries this holiday season, but for people who love animals, there are plenty of opportunities to earn some extra income for Christmas shopping.

That's because holiday season is peak season in the pet care business. Pet boarding and grooming facilities, in particular, find it hard to keep pace with pet owner demand for care of their pets during the busy holiday period.

Whether you're looking for a part-time holiday job, or thinking about a career in pet care, opportunities abound and prior experience isn't really necessary, explains Li Hayes, Director of Human Resources for Best Friends Pet Care, the largest company in the pet hospitality business in the U.S.

"Pet care is different from many other industries," says Hayes. "Formal schooling isn't necessary for many pet care jobs and large companies like ours provide on-the-job training. There are definitely opportunities for people new to pet care."

A range of opportunities
Most holiday opportunities grow out of the increased demand for pet boarding as pet owners travel for holiday celebrations or holiday-break vacations. Beginners can work in animal care, assisting with the feeding and exercise of boarding pets and the cleaning of the kennels. There are also opportunities in customer service -- answering phones, assisting with check-in of pet guests and selling pet toys and treats.

According to Hayes, pet owner interest in grooming appointments also rises during the holiday season. "We all want our pets to look and smell their best for our own holiday parties and events." Consequently, she notes, there are also opportunities for beginners to be trained as groom techs, who assist the professional groomers with bathing and other tasks. Experienced professional groomers, she adds, are always in demand.

For more about job opportunities in pet care, visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com or call 888-FOR-PETS.

Best Friends Pet Care, which offers pet boarding, grooming, daycare, training and retail, owns and operates 37 pet resorts located in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

MAKE HALLOWEEN A TREAT - NOT A TRICK -- FOR YOUR PETS

October 2002 — Halloween is a fun and exciting time for children of all ages. But it can be frightening, and even dangerous, for family pets.

If you and your dog are at home greeting trick-or-treaters, the strange sights and sounds may create some anxiety. The pet care experts at Best Friends Pet Resorts encourage all pet owners to take a few precautions to keep the family dog and cat safe and happy during the Halloween festivities.

• Keep your dog on a leash, so he doesn't run out when the door is opened.
• Use a happy tone of voice when answering the door, so he is reassured.
• Ask visitors to hand your dog a biscuit, so he learns not to fear the situation.
• If your pet is still frightened, consider keeping him in another room, away from the activity.

Halloween Pet Safety Tips
Many seemingly benign holiday traditions - from candles to candy - can pose a threat to pets:

• Make sure that your pet does not have easy access to Halloween decorations, especially pumpkins with burning candles and battery-operated devices.
• Keep small costume pieces and accessories away from pets. They can pose gastrointestinal or choking hazards.
• Put Halloween candy - especially chocolate - out of reach. One ounce of chocolate can be fatal for a small dog (under 10 lbs.). Like other poisons, chocolate poison requires emergency medical treatment. Be sure to have plenty of healthy treats on hand, so Fido won't feel left out when everyone else is indulging.
• Never leave your pet outside unattended on Halloween or they can become the victims of Halloween pranksters. Black cats, in particular, are at risk for dangerous tricks.

To Costume or Not?
The decision about whether to dress your pet in costume and take him trick-or-treating really depends upon your pet. If he is easily agitated by strangers or frightened by strange sights and sounds, he's better off at home. On the other hand, if your pet is the curious type and loves dressing up, you may want to include him in the fun.

In choosing a costume, be sure that it doesn't restrict your pet's movement in any way, or cover his eyes. Also keep in mind that your dog will need to relieve himself after wearing the costume for a long period. Quality pet retail outlets, like Best Friends, carry a range of pet-safe Halloween costumes.

Be sure to introduce your pet's costume a few days of ahead of time, putting on one piece at a time. Make a fuss over how great he looks, and allow him to get accustomed to wearing it at home before the big day.

With a little care and planning, pets and people can have a howling good time together on Halloween!

NOW IS THE TIME TO UNDO SUMMER'S DAMAGE TO YOUR PET'S SKIN

September 2002 — Those lazy summer days that were spent enjoying the out-of-doors were great for mind and body. But if your pets spent a great deal of time in the backyard over the summer, they may also have developed skin, coat and other problems that require extra attention now.

Regular grooming is important to your pet's good health at all times of year, but especially so in the early fall, says Val Penstone, director of grooming for Best Friends Pet Resorts. "Now is the time to undo the damage from all that summer fun."

Pet skin problems can range from a tangled coat (especially if hair is long), to skin irritation from parasites, to ear problems caused by swims at the lake.

Brush and comb regularly
The centerpiece of your pet's grooming routine at any time of year should be weekly brushing and combing. A pet with has long hair needs brushing even more frequently. A matted coat will trap moisture, causing skin problems and discomfort.

Penstone and the professional groomers at Best Friends recommend using a conditioning and untangling spray before brushing for the pet's comfort. After systematically brushing though the coat, they suggest using a professional steel pinned comb to make sure all the knots and shedding hair have been removed.

If your pet is badly matted, take your pet to a qualified groomer, who can save you time and reduce your pet's discomfort. A professional grooming now will also make routine home maintenance easier and more pleasant for you and your pet

Grooming for health
Following are some other steps to keep your pet comfortable and his skin and coat healthy as the seasons change:

• Check for parasites. While brushing and combing the dog, inspect his skin for signs of irritation due to parasites. If you live in a northern climate, don't be tempted to stop preventative treatment for fleas and ticks too early; parasites won't be gone until after the first freeze!
• Check your pet's ears for problems that may be triggered by summer swims. Weekly cleaning, with a solution made for ear care is a good year-round preventative measure. Massaging the solution into the ear softens wax and dirt, floating it to the exterior, where you can wipe it gently away with cotton. Ear cleaners also control the growth of organisms that thrive in the moist conditions of the ear.
• Shampoo and condition. Periodic shampoos will help remove dust, dirt, mold spores and parasites that can cause skin irritation and allergy symptoms in you and your pet. Be sure to follow the shampoo with a conditioning rinse. Towel, and separate the hair by brushing and combing to speed drying down to the skin. If you use a hair dryer, put it on the coolest setting and use caution to avoid burning your pet's skin.

Don't skip a grooming task just because it is difficult or time-consuming, because they are important for your pet's health. If there are tasks that you do not want to undertake yourself, seek the help of a professional groomer.

For more advice on pet grooming or to locate a professional groomer, call 888-FOR-PETS.