Places in Chicago you may not have known that you can take your dog

You’ve been working all week and haven’t spent much quality time with your dog.  Unfortunately, in the warmer months, your weekend comes with an evergrowing to do list, which means the work never ends.  Does that mean you’ll have to leave your best friend at home again on Saturday to run all of your errands?  Luckily for you and your pooch, Chicago is a dog-friendly city, and that includes many of its retailers.   You can plan a complete day of running around that you can do with your dog.    We will review a list of places where you can take your dog in Chicago.   Let’s get started.

Got cash?     

  

The bank does, and you probably need to get some before you go shopping.  Or perhaps you have other banking that you’ve been putting off all week.  Fortunately, you are in luck.  Did you know that some local bank branches (e.g., Chase) are dog friendly?  Not only in the enclosed ATM lobbies, you can also take him into the main lobby, where he generally will be greeted with treats, pets, and maybe even a belly rub while you do your banking.

Call your bank today to see if they have a similar policy.

Time to go shopping

Now that you’ve done your banking, let’s go buy some supplies.  Spring cleaning means not only means cleaning but also re-organizing.  As you probably know, the Container Store can help with that, and guess what else – they love dogs!   But be prepared – your dog will be showered with affection, pets, and maybe even curious looks from people who were unaware of their dog policy!

Next task:  home repairs and yard work.Another favorite dog-friendly stores in the city is The Home Depot.  The secret is out on this one, though – you’ll likely see more dogs here than at other lesser known dog-friendly spots.This place can get crowded, though, so make sure you keep your dog on a short leash.

While you’re out running errands, don’t forget that it’s the season for weddings and graduation parties, and of course there are always birthdays and other occasions to shop for.  Certainly, you’ll have to drop Fido off at home while you browse in fancy department stores, right?

Wrong!  Did you know that you can take your dog into all Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack stores? They are one of the most dog-friendly stores in the city. In fact, nearly all of the Shops at North Bridge on Michigan Avenue, where the large Nordstrom is located, will gladly welcome your pooch. Furthermore, we’ve found that many department and furniture stores in the city – from Pier One to Bloomingdales to Orvis to Modani– love dogs as much as we do, and welcome them with open arms (and sometimes, treats).  If you don’t see your favorite store in this short list, make sure you call ahead to confirm, but in this city, you will have plenty of options for your furry friend to tag along.

And of course, no shopping trip is complete without a stop at one of the myriad pet stores in the city for food, treats, and toys. That means PetSmart, Petco, Krisers, and any number of smaller, boutique stores should be an obvious stop on your list because, of course, they all welcome dogs at all times.She put up with all of your shopping, the least you could do is reward her with a new toy or a bag of treats!

While you work, drop your dog off at K9U

Now that the errands are done and you are ready to get to work, you probably don’t have a lot of time to play in the park. This is where K9 University can help. You can drop off your best friend at K9U for open play outside.   At least 15,000 square foot of our outdoors dog play area is fully covered with K9Grass®, which is specifically made for dogs and is very soft and cushiony to the touch.  Call us at 773-533-5959 or check out our daycare page at https://k9uchicago.com/dog-daycare/ to book your appointment.

In addition to playing, you can schedule a bath, nail clipping, or full groom.   That way at least one of you will be clean at the end of your yard work!   You can check out all of our grooming options on our grooming page at https://k9uchicago.com/dog-grooming/.

After the work is done

Now as evening approaches and your work is done and your dog is played out and cleaned up, it’s time to celebrate!  And once again, you can do that with your dog!  As the weather warms up, there are myriad patios opening around the city where you can enjoy an adult beverage, a bite to eat, and your dog at your side.

For example, some fun places in the South Loop include Flo & Santos, which has an enormous dog-friendly patio, Vice District, which actually allows dogs inside, and Weather Mark Tavern.  Traveling a bit north to Printer’s Row, you find Kasey’s, Bar Louie, and Half Sour, among others, who offer their patios to our pooches.

There are too many neighborhoods and restaurants and bars to list them all here, so be sure to inquire at places near you about their willingness to allow dogs.A word of caution, though – this environment will be full of friendly people and great smelling food, so you’ll have to keep your pooch close and under control.

We hope you enjoyed this small tour through dog-friendly Chicago – some places where you can take your dog in Chicago, get things things done, enjoy your pooch’s company.  And remember, if you have to get out and about to places that do not allow dogs, K9 University is always here for you.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT:  https://k9uchicago.com/blog/where-you-can-take-your-dog-in-chicago/

How to Help your Dog Beat the Summer Heat in Chicago

The 4^th of July is upon us, and with it comes the dog days of summer.  It’s important to mind your dog’s health in the heat and humidity. This blog post will equip you with the information you need to help your dog beat the Summer heat and keep him or her safe and cool this Summer.

Lots of Water

Your dog needs to stay hydrated in the summer, just like we do.  Obviously, he has plenty of water at home, but when you go on longer walks you need to take water with you.  You have myriad options here, all of which can be found in your favorite pet supply store. NOTE: The links are intended to provide examples — they are not product endorsements.


1. Collapsible Bowls

Source: Chewy.com

If you don’t want to lug your metal bowl with you then you’re in luck – you can purchase a more portable, collapsible bowl to hold water.   Two popular options are a rubber bowl that collapses into a flat disc and a nylon version that is more flexible and can be folded over multiple times and Velcro-taped or snapped shut.

Of course, for this solution, you’ll need to take a bottle of water with you as well.   Or, if you know there are plenty of drinking fountains or other options to purchase water on your path, you can just take the bowl.  Dog friendly places are always read to fill your collapsible bowl. Although, if it’s a really hot day, just play it safe and take the water with you.


2. Squirt Bottles with Attached Drink Basins

Source: eBay

These handy devices come with a soft plastic bottle to fill with water and then squeeze into the attached drinking basin.   On some models, the empty basin then folds up and holds the bottle!   The nice part is that you can squeeze a little bit at a time as long as your pup is thirsty and avoid wasting water.


3. Water Bottle with Detachable Drink Basin

Similar to the 2 Squirt Bottles with Attached Drink Basins above, but with a twist.  With the Water Bottle with a Detachable Basin model, water isn’t squeezed, but rather poured into a detachable basin. The twist comes from the design of the bottle and basin as separate entities.  This means you can drink from the bottle yourself while your dog drinks from the basin!  Two drinks for the price of one!


4. Roller Ball Water Bottles

Source:  GOImprints.com

This bottle doesn’t have a detachable bowl or basin, but the tip is a metal roller ball that your dog licks to get water from the bottle. This is good for short sips, not so much for guzzling a bowl at a time.   Still handy as you can hydrate your dog while you walk.

These are a few of the diverse water bottle options to help your dog beat the Summer heat and stay hydrated as you enjoy the Chicago summers together.

Proper Grooming and Brushing to Beat the Heat

The weather is getting hot and your dog has long hair, so you should just shave it down to cool him off, right?

Wrong! Your dog’s hair actually insulates him from the weather – both hot and cold — and cutting it too short can be bad for him.   In fact, if you cut it too short he can get a sun burn!   How long you should keep your dog’s coat depends on the kind of coat he has, and there are several kinds.    You should keep it well-conditioned and groomed.  You should also brush it regularly.

For all of your grooming needs or simply to get advice on summer coat care, be sure to call K9 University for a consultation with our professional groomers.

Limit Exercise to the Cool Part of the Day

 

There’s an old song titled “Only Mad Dogs and Englishmen Go Out in the Midday Sun”.   Of course, they had a different meaning for the word “mad” in mind, but your dog will most certainly not be happy to go for long walks in the heat of the day.  Save your long walks and play sessions for early in the morning and later at night, after the sun has gone down.  And even then, make sure you have water available.

One way to make sure you have water available is to take advantage of some of the off-leash parks in the city that have pools and water fountains to cool off your hot dog.   Fred Anderson Park in the South Loop is one such park, and there is another in Lakeshore East, which is also heavily shaded.  You can always bring your pooch to K9U and enjoy our spacious indoor park.

There are also dog friendly pools and aquatic centers in the city, which are a great way  get your dog great exercise while helping him beat the summer heat.

Common Sense Always Prevails to Help your Dog Beat the Summer Heat 

 

If you want to run errands with your dog, don’t leave him in the car while you run into the bank or store, not even for a minute. The temperature in a car can rise dramatically in a short period of time and that is no place for a dog. Just don’t do it.

Similarly, don’t leave your best friend out in the yard too long in the heat, especially if she doesn’t have a lot of shade. One easy and inexpensive way you can make your back yard a cooler and more fun place to be for your dog, however, is to get a kiddie pool and keep it filled with cool, fresh water. Make sure you change it often, though, as it can be a gathering place for harmful bacteria.

It’s summer time and you want to have fun with your dog, and well you should, but be smart about it and keep that pup hydrated and happy.

And remember that we can always help you here at K9 University. Schedule your doggy daycare or boarding today and we’ll keep your pooch well exercised in a safe, cool environment.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://k9uchicago.com/blog/help-your-dog-beat-the-summer-heat/

Tips to Manage Reactive Dogs on a Leash

You’ve undoubtedly come across dogs who have trouble walking on a leash. If you’re reading this now, that dog might be your own! Dogs struggle to leash train for several reasons. Let’s discuss what dog leash reactivity (aka, dog leash aggression) is, how it manifests, and how you can work with your dog to limit the reactive or aggressive behaviors so you both can enjoy going for walks.

What Causes Dog Leash Reactivity or Aggression?

Leash aggression, or leash reactivity occurs when dogs pull, lunge, bite or exhibit other unwanted behaviors while on a leash. This can be dangerous to the dog, other animals, and their owner.
But what causes leash reactivity?

Here are some reasons your dog may be struggling during their time on the leash:

Frustration

Your dog wants to play! So, they become easily frustrated staying alongside their owners when they want to play. If your dog naturally has poor impulse control, frustration easily leads to leash aggression. First, your dog will just seem excited, then it takes a turn to aggression. It happens in a split second and can be dangerous.

Inhibits Instinctual Interaction

 

Dogs have their own language. When they are off leash, they meet other dogs in their own instinctual way. They slowly meet each other, sniff each other, and decide how to treat each other.
Leashes restrict movement, and suddenly this instinctual ritual can’t play out in a safe way. Dogs who prefer caution will want to move away. Leashes can make this difficult to do. If growling and aggression begin, the owner may grow tense, further escalating the interaction.

The Owner is Causing Stress

 

Dogs read body language. If a dog’s owner becomes stressed during certain situations in anticipation of their dog’s negative behavior, the dog may feel that stress. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Some dogs want to protect their owners. So, even though they are well-behaved with other people, they become aggressive when their owner is in the room or holding their leash.

Past On-Leash Trauma

If your dog has been punished on leash or had a traumatic incident with another animal on a leash, they might have aggressive leash behaviors. Reactive leash training for this type of trauma is necessary but rewarding.

According to the Animal Humane Society, “Every negative experience will set your progress back, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. If you live in an area with lots of dogs, consider taking your friend somewhere less canines are present.”

Leash Tension is a Stressor

 

When your dog is interacting with another dog on a leash, it’s a precarious situation. When you pull them to remove them and continue on your way, they may react. This can lead to an outburst. As the dog owner, it’s your job to gently urge your dog away. Reacting in a calm way makes the biggest difference.

What if My Dog Pulls on the Leash?

 

Being outside with all the smells and action is a very stimulating experience for dogs. Most of the time, they are pulling because they are excited! However, pulling can be painful for both you and the dog.

Dogs who excessively pull on their leash are known to cause damage to their trachea and neck which leads to coughing and other symptoms.

There are many things you can do to curb this behavior, but we’ll focus on the two most common. First, use a harness instead of a neck collar. This distributes pressure around the dog’s back and chest instead on their sensitive necks.

Second, reward loose leash behavior. Keep little treats in your bag to reinforce a loose leash. Positive behavior modification works.

How to Stop a Dog from Lunging on a Leash?

 

This one is a little harder to manage. Your dog may be excited, protective, or trying to solicit play from another dog. What it really comes down to is proper leash behavior. Like when your dog pulls on their leash, consider getting back to basics. Start by teaching your dog to sit, then teach them to operate on loose leash. Then, teach them to heel, and to listen to commands of your choosing, always following positive behavior modification techniques.

Instead of acting on their instinctive behavior, they’ll look to you for direction.

What Can I Do if My Dog is Biting the Leash When Walking?

 

This is a very common behavior for puppies. Why?

Puppies want to play!

Leashes are pretty much tug-of-war toys to the untrained dog. Therefore, it’s important to make the leash a less exciting tool for walking. Start by touching the leash (without picking it up). Make it so it’s not a big deal.

Once your dog stops reacting to you touching the leash, you can move on to getting them used to sitting calmly while being fitted with their leash.

Lastly, teach your dog to heel while wearing their leash. Building upon each goal leads to overall success. Soon, your dog won’t be tempted to bite their leash anymore.

I’ve Tried Everything! What Do I Do Now?

 

If you feel you’ve done all you can to help your dog become less reactive on leash and need some guidance, we suggest reactive leash training at K9U Chicago. Living in Chicago, walking your dog on a leash isn’t an option, it’s the law. Therefore, it’s important that your dog be trained to behave and even enjoy their time on a leash.

Contact us today to learn more about our reactive leash training and other training courses.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://k9uchicago.com/blog/tips-to-manage-reactive-dogs-on-a-leash/

Congratulations Ruby! Illinois Rising Star U.S. Small Business 2019 Award Winner

A Recognized Leader  

 

On May 16, 2019 Ruby Madrigal, K9 Univerisity owner,  was awarded the Illinois Rising Star Award, 2019, from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Ruby's efforts as Owner of K9 University Chicago include her outreach to area dog rescues and shelters, providing gainful employment people in need and welcoming any Chicago dog no matter the breed.

We are all so very happy for Ruby and are proud to be part of her K9U Chicago Pack!

Rising Star Award

 

The Illinois Rising Star Award is given to only two business leaders out of the thousands nominated each year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Ruby is a strong supporter of Chicago area small business and is thrilled to share this accomplishment with fellow Rising Star recipient, Rosemary Swierk of Direct Steel and Construction.

Cheers to Girl Power!

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://k9uchicago.com/blog/ruby-illinois-rising-star-us-small-business-2019-award/