Celebrate National Rescue Dog Day

Memorial Day is a couple of weeks away, but the dog days have already arrived. National Rescue Dog Day is May 20, and it’s a time to celebrate the pooches in our lives and an opportunity to bring awareness to the millions of dogs available for adoption in the U.S.

Bergenites who have been thinking about adding a furry friend to their family have plenty of options. Our county is home to several animal shelters and organizations, including the Bergen County Animal Shelter, Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge Inc. (RBARI) and the Humane Society of Bergen County, that can pair prospective owners with a dog available for adoption.

Here are three pups who are now available for adoption today:

Karina is an 8-year-old, female Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel mix. She’s a sweet senior who is blind and gets confused in new places. But make no mistake—once she knows where everything is and gets into a routine, she gets around much better. Karina likes walks, soft beds and hanging with her people, and perks up other gentle small dog friends.
*To meet Karina, contact RBARI, 2 Shelter Ln., Oakland, 201.337.5180

Jaxson is an 8-month-old fully vetted mixed breed. He’s good with kids and other dogs, but remember that he’s still a puppy! He still has a lot of energy and pulls on a leash. A home with a fenced yard is preferred.
*To meet Jaxson, contact Pawsitively Furever Dog Rescue, 40 Burlews Ct., Building 4, Hackensack, pawsitivelyfurever@gmail.com

Patch is a 1½-year-old Bichon Frise and Pit Bull Terrier mix. He has a funny, smart and athletic personality and would do best in a home with experienced adult dog owners who can work on training him daily. He does well with other dogs as long as they aren’t too big or too excitable.
*To meet Patch, contact the Bergen County Animal Shelter, 100 United Ln., Teterboro, 201.229.4600

Keeping your new pup safe

Whether you’re a new dog owner or someone who’s lived with a pup all their life, remember to take care of your four-legged friend, especially during spring and summer when different hazards arise. You already know to never leave Fido unattended in a hot car, particularly with the windows rolled up, and you’d never walk Chloe when the pavement is too hot. But here are a few other tips that are often overlooked or forgotten this time of year:

Plants. You know which plants humans should avoid (curses, poison ivy!), but there are many varieties that can be harmful to pets too. Many common plants like aloe, azaleas, rhododendrons and tulips, according to the ASPCA, and can cause vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea. Contact a veterinary if your dog ingests any.

Pesticides and insecticides. ’Tis the season to spray yards to keep pests away, but don’t forget your pup runs around those same spaces. Time spent in a yard treated with toxic chemicals can be dangerous. Dogs can absorb pesticide residue by chewing or eating plant material that was treated with pesticides. Before applying, be sure to remove pets as well as their toys, food and water, from the area. Safer pest control alternatives like traps and non-chemical deterrents also can be used.

Water. Many dogs love swimming but remember that accidents can happen—at a lake, stream, ocean or pool. Always supervise your pet when they’re in or near water. If they’re swimming, consider a dog-specific life jacket—even experienced canine swimmers get tired in the water. When they exit the pond or pool, always rinse off their fur and skin with fresh water to prevent skin irritation from chemicals or other substances.

Do you want to see your dog featured in the Puppy Love section of BERGEN magazine? Email his or her photo and brief details to Editor in Chief Rita Guarna.