Talking Tails - 3/10/15

Welcome back to Talking Tails!

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner. We celebrated a few weeks early by having an Irish set available for the dogs that attended Paw Prints, a studio event that supports the Charlotte Humane Society. Mochi, Sushi, Katie, Charlie, Hansie, Nora, Jaxon, Levi, and Teddy attended Paw Prints and, as you can see, they were showing off their Irish pride!

Many families include their dog in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. We are always part of our family’s festivities! Here are a few tips for keeping your dog safe this St. “Pawtrick’s” Day.

• Wearing of the green. We love to wear our green on St. Patrick’s Day! Joey and I always dress-up because our Mom is Irish. She thinks I look adorable in my green tie, while Joey sports a green bandana with the words, “Bark if you’re Irish.” You would be surprised at how many barks he gets! If you are outfitting your dog in a costume, be sure it is comfortable and has nothing chewable that could lead to a choking hazard. For safety purposes, the costume should not interfere with your dog’s vision, movement, or air intake.

• Really wearing of the green. Our hats are off to our canine friends who dye their fur green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. We are not that brave! For your dog’s safety be sure to use a non-toxic, all-natural, edible vegetable dye. You may want to consider a festive bandana or costume if your dog has sensitive skin.

• Parades and parties. Joey loves a good party, while I hang back and watch. All dogs respond differently to these types of situations, so consider how your dog responds to crowds and loud noises as you plan your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. 

• Skip the Guinness. Go ahead and raise a beer or other alcoholic beverage in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, but don’t share it with your dog. Alcohol can be toxic and your dog can become very sick and disoriented. We don’t want any of our furry friends ending the night at the emergency vet.

• Stick to your diet. As great as traditional Irish foods smell (sauerkraut, cabbage, sausage, corned beef, soda bread), they are not good for your dog. Several of the ingredients used in pickling and cooking these foods can cause serious gastrointestinal concerns for your dog. We will probably beg for the food, but for our own safety, don’t give in to us!

We can’t sign off without a tip of the hat to our furry friends with Irish ancestry – Irish Setter, Irish Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, and Irish Wolfhound.

Erin Go Bragh! 

Buster and Joey