To say that it’s hot outside would be an understatement. Whether it’s 106 degrees outside or 97 degrees, both are too hot to take man’s best friend out for a walk and get in some park playtime. When the heat turns up in July and August in the Treasure Valley, options are limited on getting your dog out to get his much-needed exercise time. Below are some tips on exercising your pup while keeping him safe from the heat.

If you have fallen victim to the "COVID 15" (gaining weight during the lockdowns), most likely so has your pet. It's time to look at how this happened and how best to deal with the extra pounds on your pooch.

If you’re a Treasure Valley local, you’re familiar with our seasonal gloomy, cloudy skies (a.k.a. inversions). Many December and January months—even into February—in Boise can involve weeks of inversion with no sun and below-freezing temperatures. It’s difficult for even the most dedicated outdoors-lover to get into the fresh air.

Is your large breed dog getting enough exercise?

Your dog is your best friend—and for good reason. She's always there for you and probably wags her tail right off when you get home from work every evening. But do you ever wonder if your friend is lonely while you're gone?

When it's frigid outside, it can be hard to keep your dog active. Daily walks don't seem so attractive, the park is either full of snow, ice or frost, and the fire is so delightful... However, it's still important to keep your pooch active for them to stay happy and healthy. Here are some ways to do so.

Summer days are finally over, and with their passing come many changes. It seems like there's a flurry of activity everywhere we look. It's also time to make sure our family pets are ready for winter days.

If you're a dog lover, you already know that if one dog is great, two is even better! If you're ready to introduce a new dog into your home, whether a puppy or fully grown dog, a little planning ahead will make the transition from one dog to two go a lot smoother.

Begin in a Neutral Area

Dogs are naturally territorial. Choose a neutral area, not your own home, when you're ready to introduce a new pet to your dog. He'll be a lot less likely to look at your new friend as a rival if the initial introduction doesn't happen on his home turf. Choose a park (not one you visit frequently) or a friend's yard and make sure you have a helper. That way the dogs can be easily separated if things don't go well at first.

Doggie daycare -- is it the perfect fit for your fluffy pal? Daycare provides a good fit for energetic dogs, dog that are currently in a training program, and timid dogs. Check out the pros for each situation.

The energetic dog.

Daycare is a wonderful option for your energetic, extroverted dog. You know how it goes. He snoozes and mopes all day long, storing up energy and then the moment you enter the door he then unleashes it on you. You're tired from a long day's work, but he's rearing to go. If he's been at daycare all day, he won't have such a serious case of cabin fever and you'll only have to take him for a walk if you want to. A tired dog means a well-behaved, low-maintenance dog.

Your dog is man's best friend and you know he'd like nothing better than to tail you to work and back. However, in reality, your dog spends the 8-5 at home alone with only his water dish and a rug for company. That's why Doggy Daycare can be a dream come true for you and your pet.

Socialization

With daycare, your pup can have the valuable experience and comfort of the companionship of other dogs. Not only this, he can bask in the attention of the staff. He'll thank you for this extra dose of socialization.