WAG

From the desk of Bay Woof Editor Mindy Toomay

Summer has arrived at last, and in many parts of the Bay Area that means plenty of fine weather in the months to come. No better time to give your dog (and yourself) an energy overhaul by ramping up the recreation. You hold in your hands our annual Dogs at Work and Play issue, designed to help you up the play quotient.

Did you love the challenge of scouting when you were young, earning badges as you gained competence in new skills? Well, now your dog can do the same. The first Bay Area troop of Dog Scouts of America is up and running at Humane Society Silicon Valley. Beth Ward's article provides details.

Looking for ways to lose your lethargy and make life with your dogs more fun, at home and in the great outdoors? Peggy Greenfield offers lots of inspiration. Learn something about your pup's natural instincts by investigating traits of his breed(s) then look for activities that provide an outlet for those urges.

On the work side of this issue's equation, we give you glimpses into the fascinating worlds of hearing dogs and guide dogs for the blind. Find out what it takes to prepare a hearing dog for his future career. You might be surprised to learn that playing games is an important aspect of training. Next, enter the world of Bay Area author Susan Krieger. We have excerpted her just-published memoir about exploring the world with her guide dog, Teela. You may never need one of these very special canines to help you navigate through life, but these stories will give you new respect for them and the people they serve.

There's more: Aishe Berger of SF Puppy Prep explains how to manage puppy pandemonium. Gary Richter of Montclair Vet Hospital offers advice for protecting your dog's health during hard work and hard play. And Ariana Luchsinger of Pets Unlimited sheds light on the sad plight of discarded "purse dogs." Fortunately, many of them eventually find good homes where they're treated as cherished family members, not fashion accessories.

Finally, a word about Independence Day, which is right around the corner and which you may think is big fun. Believe me, your furry family members do not agree. More dogs go missing on July 4th, spooked by the noise of fireworks, than on any other day of the year. We implore you to take a look at Jane Sokolow's safety tips. We've run them before, but it's worth a repeat if they help even one canine survive the celebration.

Wishing you and your four-leggeds big fun on these sultry summer days ...

~ Mindy Toomay, Editor