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This article is taken from The Ruffler Blog. To check it out there, with pictures of the writer and her dogs click here.
If you’ve had the opportunity to go skiing with your dog, you know that there are few activities that are more fun! Dogs are possibly the only ones who get more “snowked” than we do when the white stuff falls. Depending on your experience level, your dog’s particular traits, and the type of skiing you’re doing, there can be a tough learning curve when it comes to adventuring in the snow with your furry friend. Our friends Laura, Star and Titan (of Silas the Sprinter) have been getting out quite a bit and are here to help! Here are Laura’s tips for skiing with your dog:
I haven’t been skiing for very long, and I’ve been skiing with Titan and Star for even less time, but heading out to the snow on two planks with my pups has quickly risen to the top of my favorite things to do list. As a novice, I’ve learned many helpful tips that I thought I would share with others who are looking to get into skiing with their dog.
Types of Skiing
Depending on what you’re into, what type of dog you have and their energy level, you can ski in several different ways with your dog.
Cross Country Skiing: Classic XC skiing is a great way to start skiing with your dog because it is much slower paced, which can be helpful for teaching your dog some of the basics, like staying away from you ski edges. Skate-skiing is much faster paced and a great workout for you and your dog. While cross country skiing, your dog can run or walk beside or behind you off leash. If your local trails have leash laws, or you prefer to keep your dog leashed, you can teach them to skijor.
Skijoring: Skijoring involves being towed by your dog as you ski. It can be done while classic XC skiing or skate-skiing. It is a more advanced skill and a great way to bond with your dog through a shared activity that requires cooperation. To really do this right, you will want to spend a good deal of time training your dog before you even get on your skis. For example, you’ll have to teach your dog to pull against their harness, which is something a lot of us spend time teaching our dogs not to do! You will also want to teach them the very important “on-by” (or leave it) command, so they learn to pass distractions and continue pulling so you don’t have any pile ups.
Downhill Backcountry Skiing: This type of skiing will involve the most energy expenditure from your dog, and also requires that you have the technical skills for backcountry travel. While backcountry skiing, your dog will follow you up the skin track, and then run down the slope as you ski back down.
Safety and Comfort for your Dog
The most important things to consider while skiing with your dog, is that they are safe and that they are comfortable. You will be out in the elements, traveling over varied terrain, and you will have very sharp edges attached to your feet that can be dangerous for dog paws and legs.
Gear: Some dogs were bred to be in the snow and others, while they still love it, don’t necessarily have the traits to be comfortable in the cold. Know your dog and be able to recognize when they are cold. Always carry a jacket, like the Powder Hound, in case your dog gets chilled. Be careful about using jackets without sleeves (K9 Overcoat, Quinzee) in deep and powdery snow, as snow can get trapped in the front chest area of the coat and make your dog’s internal organs cold. If your dog is prone to frozen paws, getting snowballs in between their pads, or getting raw pads, be sure to get your dog used to wearing boots before you head out. If you have a smaller dog, consider using a harness with a handle, like the Webmaster, so you can pull your dog out of deep snow or over obstacles.
Nutrition: Don’t forget to bring treats! Adventuring in the snow can burn a lot of calories and you’ll want to make sure your pup has adequate energy for the whole outing.
First Aid: Be prepared to administer basic first aid to your dog in case they are injured while skiing. One of the more common injuries dogs receive is a slice from a ski edge. Be sure that you are able to stabilize any injuries and evacuate your dog safely before you take them out on an adventure.
Activity Levels: Snow is like a stimulant to Star. As soon as her paws touch it, she goes bonkers, hopping through it, running back and forth, jumping up and down. If I allow her to do this while we are skiing, she will exhaust herself and become extremely sore (she is three years post-op on a TPLO and also has minor arthritis). To make sure she has a good time skiing, I keep her leashed on the skin track. This makes for a controlled pace all the way up the mountain, and insures that she stays out of the deeper powder on the side of the trail. When it is time to ski down, she gets to go at her pace. Titan, on the other hand, is a master at energy conservation and will slowly follow behind you up the skin track. Be aware of your dog’s energy level and what they are capable of.
When to leave your dog at home: Although Titan and Star love snow and want to come skiing with me every time I go, I know there are times when it is in their best interest to leave them at home. Never take your dog skiing when there is high avalanche danger (you probably shouldn’t be out there either!). Consider leaving your dog at home after a big storm or when there is a lot of fresh powder. Post-holing through the snow and jumping through deep powder can be very exhausting for your pup and can also lead to serious injuries like a torn ACL. Don’t take your dog out when they are tired. Star only comes skiing with me once or twice a week, or else she gets too sore. Although she loves it regardless of how she might feel afterward, I know that it is in her best interest not to over do it. Leave your dog at home if you are exploring a new area. If you aren’t familiar with where you are skiing, it is best to do an exploratory mission without your dog to make sure that there aren’t dangerous terrain features like cliffs, where your dog could get stuck.
Etiquette
Skiing with your dog adds a lot of new elements to the equation. You’ll want to make sure you have the energy and focus to keep your dog, yourself, and others safe.
Pick up the poo! No one wants to ski over a fresh pile of turd! Bring a sturdy carrying receptacle like the Night Ize Pack a Poo to transport your dog’s poop out of the area with you.
Teach your dog not to approach skiers. This is hard for social dogs, but you don’t want your dog to jump in front of a skier while they are moving. While cross country skiing, teach your dog to stay on their side of the trail so they don’t cut off oncoming skiers from the other direction.
Follow the rules. If an area has a leash law, or doesn’t allow dogs, respect the regulations and leash your pup or head somewhere else!
As humans, every January 1st we hit the gym, hit the books or start booking appointment to satisfy a new set of resolutions. Our dogs, however, live a life not penned in by dates and times. (Which must be nice.) But, that also means you need to take care of their New Years resolutions for them. We have a few suggestions that will improve your dog’s life and will make you a better person as well!
Take longer walks.
Many of us either let our dogs out to run around by themselves or take a brief walk around the block for a bathroom break. This year consider walking at least a mile per day with your dog. It’s really a no brainer that this will improve your dogs health and yours but did you know walking also aids in digestion and helps to curb bad behavior such as hyperactivity and unruliness. It will also promote a better bond and sense of trust between you and your dog.
Take a class.
We could all stand to learn new tricks, even if we’re old dogs. Taking an obedience class with your dog will make it easier to have more fun with your dog. Leaning basic commands like “stay down”, “wait” and “leave it” will make it easier to take your dog along with you when you go out. If you’ve already got sit, stay, and roll over down maybe consider taking more advanced courses or agility training. These classes are fun for your dog and are also a great way for you to meet new people.
Volunteer
You - and your dog - can make the world a better place. With the right training, there are opportunities for dogs to bring joy and healing into the lives of the elderly or disabled as therapy dogs or special visitors. Contact your favorite obedience school for more information about these programs and certifications. If you’d like to improve the lives of dogs in general there are plenty of things you can do! Walking dogs or helping to clean at your local shelter, volunteering as a photographer for adoption centers, even stuffing envelopes or IT support can be helpful. Call your local animal shelter to find out what they need!
We wish you the best of luck with all your resolutions and hope that you and your pup enjoy every second of 2016!.
The year end holidays are a joyous time. Let’s not ruin them with a trip to the vet! We’ve assembled a few tips to keep in mind while your decorating and dining to keep your dog (and cat!) safe this season.
Candles
The soft glow of candle light adds warmth to holiday gatherings. It also occasionally adds fire to houses as well. Dogs and cats don’t know this though and may bump candles or the furniture they are on, knocking them over and causing an emergency.
Pets may also try to play with the flickering flames which will lead to burns and other injuries. We suggest using safe, battery powered candles. The realistic, flickering light will add ambiance to your holiday table but they won’t ruin your life if Fido accidentally pulls the table cloth.
Tinsel and Ribbon
Glistening tinsel and curly cue ribbons decorate the tree and the presents below but they pose a risk to cats and dogs. Both are fun to play with but are easy to swallow. Once consumed these materials can cause digestive tract discomfort or even death in dogs and cats.
We suggest you avoid these items all together but if you feel like you can’t live without it, keep your veterinarian’s number on hand and contact them immediately if you suspect your pet might have ingested this decoration.
And…while we realize this is kind of icky…if you see ribbon or tinsel hanging from your dogs butt - don’t pull it! It may cause internal injury. Contact your vet for assistance.
Holiday Foods
Everyone knows the highlight of the holidays is big meals, snacks and sweets shared with family. But let’s not share some of these items with the dog. Chocolates can cause diarrhea, vomiting and death due to caffeine and methylxanthine content. The general rule is the richer the chocolate the more dangerous it is. If you find your dog has gotten into that tray of fudge you were saving for guests call your vet or you may call the ASPCA’s poison control at (888) 426-4435. (Be aware they do charge a consultation fee for this call.)
Other items you’ll want to keep out away from your dog? Bones and fat trimmings. Both are chocking hazards, can caught defective issues and fat trimmings can lead to pancreatitis.
Almonds, moldy walnuts, pistachios and especially macadamia nuts have a range of toxic effects on dogs. And believe it or not, grapes and raisins are not good for your pup.
But the slice of turkey your dog has been eyeing all day? It is Christmas after all.
Holiday Plants
Many of you already know that poinsettias are extremely poisonous for both dogs and cats. Luckily, they taste pretty bad, but then your dog enjoys the smell of you gym shoes so it’s best not to risk it.
Keep in mind also that pine needles, mistletoe and holly are also toxic when ingested. If you must have them, place them out of your pup’s reach!
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and we’re meditating on all the things we are thankful for, chief of which is man’s best friend. There are so many reasons to hold our pups near and dear this holiday season. Here are a few important reason why:
They keep us moving.
Whether its throwing the ball around the yard, an evening stroll or a 10 mile uphill climb, our dogs motivate us to get up and get moving! Researchers have even found that our pups provide support in similar ways to a human exercise buddy, but with greater consistency and without any negative influence. They say a tired dog is a happy dog, but a dog tired human who’s spent the whole day hiking with their dog is pretty happy too.
The keep us sane.
Did you know dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets and playing with or petting your dog lowers blood pressure and can increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which calm and relax? And really, how can you look at your dogs adorable face and feel anything but joy?
They help us make friends.
We’ve struck up conversations at the dog park, on the trail and even as we walk down the street and we’re sure you have too! If you’ve met another person with their best friend in tow, you’ve already got something in common to chat about. Studies have even shown that children who have dogs are better at fostering relationships with other children.
They teach our kids responsibility.
Our dogs don’t just live on affection alone. They need to clean water, nutritious food, exercise and a trip to the vet every now an then on top of all those hugs. When children have pets, they learn to care for those that depend on them. These lessons last long into adulthood.
They are with us through thick and thin.
Having a bad day? Your dog will give you a furry shoulder to cry on. Having a good day? Let’s celebrate with a game of fetch! Dogs are always happy to see you no matter what mood you’re in and you’ll never hear them utter, “I told you so,” when something has gone awry. You’re dog is your best friend and that, maybe more than any other reason, is why we are thankful they are in our lives.
Walks are often one of the most fun parts of your dog’s day. But now that fall has settled in, dog walkers of New England are noticing that it’s a bit darker when they go for their evening stroll. Here are a few tips that will keep your dog safe as you begin walking in the autumn and winter months.
1. If there are sidewalks - use them! If not, walk on the left-hand side of the street, facing oncoming traffic with your dog on your left. This way you can see traffic coming and your pup will be safe.
2. Make sure you’re dog can be seen. Blinking lights that attach to his collar or collars that light up are a great way to make sure your pup isn’t overlooked by drivers. You also may consider a reflective harness or coat.
3. Make sure you can be seen too! Carry a flashlight or wear a headlamp, and wear light colored clothing. You might also want to consider a reflective vest if you are walking in the road or on twisty turny streets. If a driver sees you, they are more likely to see your dog too!
4. Plan for the weather. If it’s cold or rainy, consider a jacket or vest designed for dogs to keep them warm and dry. (And remember! Ones with reflective elements will help your dog be seen!) Protect paws against the elements and chemically treated roads with boots and make sure not to over do it when the temps hit extremes.
5. Don’t let your dog wander. Keep your dog on a leash so you can prevent him from running into traffic or chasing neighbor’s cats. Be sure your dog has identification on as well - rabies tags, license and an id are the most important. If your dog should happen to get away from you, this will help to bring him home.
Stay safe out there and enjoy your walk!
Ahh! Autumn is on it’s way to New England and the kids are headed back to school. September is also a great time to think about taking your dog to school as well. Having a well trained dog is important and attending obedience classes not only has a big impact on your dog’s health and safety but will also help strengthen the bond between you and your fuzzy best friend.
But with so many trainers, obedience schools and techniques how do you choose the one that’s right for you? We have a few tips to help you make some decisions.
Do your homework.
The internet makes it easy to research business and service providers. You can check out potential trainer’s credentials, look at testimonials and read reviews.
But don’t be afraid to reach out to trainers by phone or in person. Ask for references and to speak to the trainer about their career, enthusiasm for their job and training philosophy. Most schools will let you visit the facility or even observe a class. Just ask!
Make sure you’re comfortable with the school’s training techniques.
We recommend looking for schools with humane, nonviolent teaching practices. Trainers who encourage and reward good behaviors tend to get more appropriate results than those that employ fear and intimidation tactics when training your dog.
There are training options that utilize treats or clicker training. Some schools will encourage your dog to be part of a group while others prefer very small group or one-on-one training. Make sure you know what will be expected of you and your dog and that you will be comfortable doing it.
Know your goals.
Would you like your dog to sit, stay, lay down and come when called? Are you looking to herd sheep? Are you trying to address problem behaviors like biting, barking or aggression? These are very different goals and will likely require very different training. Speak to potential trainers about why you would like to attend classes and ask how they can help you and your dog achieve those goals. They will help you pick the appropriate classes and help you establish realistic expectations.
If you need specialty training in things like agility or problem behavior resolution, the school should be able to help you establish an education plan that will get you and your pup the skills you desire, or recommend a trainer who specializes in the discipline you’re interested in.
Dog training can be a wonderful experience for both you and your pup and good behavior will help you and your dog get out and have more relaxed and fulfilling adventures. So get out there - sit, stay and rollover - and have fun!
If you’d like more personal recommendations, feel free to stop by our store. Our staff has a great deal of experience with local trainers, a variety of breeds and issues, and they love to help!
Summer is almost over, leaving you with only a few weeks to pack up the car and get in that hiking vacation or trip to the shore. Of course as all of us know, trips are even better when your four-legged friend comes along. Your overnight bag or suitcase is stuffed but what does your dog need? Here are our top tips to make the journey as much fun as the destination for both you and your dog.
The Essentials
Whether it’s a quick trip or a week long excursion, there are a few items your dog absolutely must have to be safe and comfortable while in the car or exploring.
Bring a leash and collar with their ID and rabies tags secured to it. If you’re dog is a difficult walker, make sure to bring a harness as well.
To satisfy a growling tummy, you’ll also want to pack enough food for your stay and fresh water along with bowls for both. There are some great, easy to pack, collapsible or waterproof fabric options available.
Make copies of your vaccine records, especially rabies, to keep in your glove box - just in case. (It’s also not a bad idea, if you’re going to be far away from your home turf, to find out if there is an emergency vet in the area so if something terrible happens to your pup, you’ll know right where to go.) Don’t forget! If your dog has any medical conditions, pack any medication your dog may need for the trip and a little extra incase you’re delayed.
Tuck away a few cleaning supplies. Car sickness and muddy paws are no joke! A multi purpose spray, fabric cleaner and lots (and lots!) of paper towels will come in handy. And don’t forget to pack plenty of plastic bags so you can pick up after your pooch for when nature calls.
You will likely want to your dog’s favorite toy or blanket in your pack as well. It can help keep her occupied in the back seat and make her feel comfortable if you will be staying someone she is unfamiliar with.
The Luxuries
There are a few items we’d like to suggest that aren’t strictly required to have a great trip, but you’ll appreciate having along.
A foldable crate is an excellent accessory to have handy. If can be used in the car if your impatient pup is causing a distraction for the driver and is an especially helpful tool if you are staying in a dog-friendly hotel. If you’d prefer to travel light, a dog seatbelt can also be used to control the car capers as well. Just dogs carries the Bergan Auto Harness in sizes that can accommodate dogs from 10 to 150 pounds, so regardless of size - we’ve got you covered.
Seat covers and car are a great way to contain your dog in the back seat and protect your upholstery from dampness and dirt. They hang from the headrests of the front and back seats, kind of like a hammock, and make it nice and cozy for your pup and reduces the number of trips you’ll need to take to the car wash to use the vacuum! We find ours to be especially useful for trips to the beach - the sand shakes off in the driveway and not on the seats!
A dedicated doggy backpack is a fantastic addition to your travel arsenal. These tough packs, made to comfortably fit your active dog, with allow her to carry her own water, bowls, food and other accessories (within reason - don’t overload!) on trails and trips. The best part is you can keep it packed with your dog day trip gear so you’re prepared when ever the travel bug bites!
As you em-bark on your adventures, we hope these tips help you prepare you for a safe, fun and carefree experience!
It would be amazing if we could take our dogs everywhere with us - to the movies, to job interviews, weddings and fancy restaurants. But alas, that’s not the world we live in and occasionally our fuzzy best friend has to stay home.
For your dog, spending time alone can be difficult. What if their human never comes back? Here are a few tips to help your dog cope with your temporary absence.
Keep your dog busy.
A bored dog will always find something to do and sometimes that something is destroying your couch cushions. Try giving your dog a toy that will keep him interested for long periods of time. We suggest a toy that combines treats and fun.
Be a regular.
Keeping a consistent schedule will help your dog understand that if he waits till a certain time, his best friend will come home to him, take him outside and scratch his ears. Your absence becomes routine and since your behavior is predictable, there’s nothing to be nervous about, right? In addition to keeping a regular schedule, it’s also a good idea to make leaving feel normal. Don’t make a big deal out of goodbyes. Our dogs take many of their emotional cues from us. If you seem nervous about leaving him, he’ll be nervous about being left.
Create a sanctuary.
You can create a “comfort zone” for your dog by confining them to one room or an appropriately sized crate. Fill the space with toys, nice, cozy bedding and of course necessities like water. Let your dog know that good things happen when he’s in his sanctuary. Begin feeding your dog is this area, praise and snuggle him when he’s resting there and don’t forget the treats! This positive reinforcement will help your dog understand that this area is where he feels safe and happy. When you go out, put him in this nice safe place and he’ll assume good things are coming soon.
Tired dogs are good dogs.
If you’ll be going out to work, or for some other extended period of time, consider taking your dog out for a vigorous play session. Run around the yard, play fetch or go for a nice walk. When you get back, let your pup take a nap and go about your business.
We hope that you an your pup get to spend every waking second together but if not, we hope these tips will help you both make the most of your time apart.
*As always, if you dog is injuring himself, others or exhibiting distressing symptoms of separation anxiety, you should see your veterinarian.
Getting ready to bring home your first dog or adding a member to your fuzzy family? It can be hectic. But Just Dogs is hear to help Newburyport dog families get prepared for your pups arrival. Our staff complied this list of necessities and accessories that you’ll need on hand for your new dog.
Buckle or Clip Closure Collar
This will be the collar your best friend will wear all the time. We recommend leather or non-stretch material. (We have many in cute seasonal colors and patterns!) When you put it on, you’ll want to make sure it is “2-fingers” snug and your dog can’t slip it over his head.
ID Tag
You’ll want to order a tag with your dogs name, a phone number where you can be reached. You many also choose to add a city and state. If you plan to offer a reward if your dog is lost, you may want to add that to the tag as well. Securely attach this to your dogs collar along with their registration and rabies tag.
Harness
Excited dogs in new environments, especially if they haven’t had much training, are tough to walk. Harnesses as well as martingale collars can be helpful as your new dog learns to walk with you. Every dog is different though so we recommend that you have yours fitted at our store. We’ll even show you how to put it on your pup and let you take a walk with your potential purpose to make sure you and your dog enjoy it.
Leash
A tough leash with a strong clasp is recommended in addition to a harness. You may also want to consider a retractable leash to practice come and stay commands with your dog or just give them a bit more freedom when you’re out for a walk. We have both in stock (and many with comfort grips and feature that keep your hand and arm comfortable so you can walk a little longer!)
Waste Bags
For picking up after our dog, a small supply of plastic bags that attach to your leash will make you a good neighbor. And with new biodegradable options you can be a good steward of your environment too.
Crate
A crate can be an important tool when your dog first joins your household. They can be used to help them learn to sleep quietly, avoid accidents or destructive behavior when you’re not home and allow them to have a quiet, safe space of their own to relax in. (But we should mention, a crate isn’t a dog house and your dog should not be crated for long periods of time.) We could honestly write a whole article on crate training but for now, take a look at the ASPCA’s article on the subject. It has great instructions, tips and tricks!
Baby Gates
Not everyone will need this but if there are places in your home you don’t want your dog to go or that are unsafe, a baby gate is a great way to confine them. Make sure your pup can’t get his head or paws caught in gate and that he can’t chew through the bars. Keep in mind the size of your dog as well. If your have a sizable beast jumping over the gate or knocking it down could be a concern.
Bedding
Consider getting your dog an easy to clean, thick bed to snuggle up on. Especially if you don’t want him on your bed! In our store we have several bedding options made specifically with your dog’s comfort, durability and ease of cleaning in mind. Plus, they come in a number of attractive patterns and colors to complement your home. (We know you’re dog is probably not concerned with the pretty nautical pattern on his bed, but trust us, you will!)
Water and Food Bowls
We recommend stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are weighted, textured on the bottom or otherwise stabilized to prevent “travel” and spills. (You may also want to pick up a mat to protect your floors.) We also carry bowls that train your dog to eat in a way that encourages healthy digestions. Ask the staff what’s best for your pup!
Grooming Supplies
You may plan on taking your new dog to the groomer but in between visits or if you’re a do it yourself having the right tools and shampoos will be invaluable. In our store, we carry Mutt Nose Best shampoos!
Pet-Specific Cleaners
Stuff happens and it’s best to be prepared to remove stains and odors. Different cleaners are good for different problems and surfaces so you’ll have to do a little guess and check in your home in terms of stain removal. For odor removal, we carry Kanberra Pet Odor Eliminators. They come in a variety of mediums to suit your space and are all natural so they will be safe to use around your new dog.
Food
We recommend a combination of wet and dry food but every dog is different. Talk to your vet about the ideal diet for your pup. Use a good grade of dog food. Feeding your dog the right, high quality food, can lead to lower vet bills and keep your dog healthy and happy.
Treats
Treats are perfect for training, reinforcing good behavior or just to show your new pup a little love. Just Dogs has a number of treats. Each has been carefully selected to give your dog a healthy variety of protein sources, interesting textures to gnaw, chew and even improve deal health and breath. Plus, we’ve weeded out artificial ingredients that just aren’t healthy.
Toys
Toys, like treats, come in a variety of styles and serve a lot of different purposes. Soft toys for comfort, tough toys for tough play and items that you can play with together. They can be used to comfort your dog, keep them busy, used as training aides or just to get that extra energy out of their system. We have toys to suit every dog! (And we have adorable seasonal toys as well!) Stop in you and your new dog can check them all out.
There are always things that you’ll in in addition to the basics but this is a good “getting started” set of items. At Just Dogs, our staff is extremely knowledgeable about dogs needs and wants so if you have any questions at all, please feel free to stop in, give us a call at 978-465-8400 or email judy@justdogsnewburyport.com and we’ll get you the answers you need.
Dog’s skin, though mostly covered with fur, isn’t that different than a human’s. These tough, snowy New England winters can really take it’s toll leaving your canine companion itchy and dry. Paws are especially vulnerable as they are not only exposed to the dry air but also to the road salt and other chemicals when they’re outdoors. At this point in the winter you may notice their pads have become scaly and rough.
The quickest way to prevent this kind of damage is to put on some rugged outdoor boots (we carry Pawz Disposables and Ruffwear Summit Trex Boots in our store), but not all dogs appreciate the superior protection they provide and would prefer you let their toes be free. So for picky pups we carry Musher’s Secret. In fact, it’s one of the most useful products we carry!
Musher’s Secret is a blend of food-grade waxes, that when applied to the paws and in between the toes protects your dogs paws from salt, sand and ice that coats the roadway in winter. It also helps to heal and sooth pads that may already be cracked or dry and prevents new abrasions that can lead to infection.
We recommend that dog owners use it weekly - it drys in seconds so it’s not a project to apply - but it can be applied less frequently if your dog spends less time outdoors. Non-toxic, non-allergenic, non-staining formula means you it’s safe for both your pup and your nice, new carpet too.
So this winter, stop by our store and try out Musher’s Secret. Your canine companion will appreciate this balm and have comfy paws all season long.