October is Adopt-a-Dog month.  Have you been thinking about getting a dog, but have a certain breed in mind?  One of the biggest misconceptions is that there are no pure-bred dogs in adoption centers.  That is not true at all!

There are rescue organizations that rescue many different dogs.  Some focus solely on pulling dogs that are on ‘death row’.  Some may only take small dogs, others may take large dogs.  Some take seniors, others only puppies.  Some may take special needs dogs- dogs that need medications, blind dogs, deaf dogs.   Many adoption centers rely on contacting rescue groups to take in a certain dog they may have at the shelter.  We need all of these rescues- they play a valuable part in finding dogs new homes!

For just about every breed of dog, there is a rescue for that breed.  These rescues generally take in pure-breeds that have been left at the adoption center for various reasons.  Or perhaps they are contacted by the owner themselves.

One of the advantages in adopting a pure-breed dog through a rescue is that the people in those groups know the pros and cons of the breed.  Of course, we know the saying ‘There are no bad dogs, just bad owners’ but some breeds are just better suited for certain people than others.  For example, it’s probably not the best fit to have a Australian Shepherd live in an apartment with no plan for exercising.

However, a Bichon may work out just fine!  The resources and knowledge of the pure-breed rescue is invaluable.

Speaking of Bichon’s!  My good friend Bev was on the search for a new dog when her long time four-legged companion, Bailey the Bichon, passed away earlier this year.  She knew she would never be able to replace Bailey, but knew it was time to open her doors to a new dog.  Any dog that gets to call Bev’s house their home is one lucky dog.  Bev made the long journey to a Bichon Rescue in Phoenix when word got out that they had a little 3-4 month old male Bichon mix that needed a home.  2 words:  Spoiled.  Rotten.  As all dogs should be.  Read his rescue tale here

There are multiple places that you can find listings of pure-breed rescues in your area.  Call your local adoption center to see if they can recommend someone.  Also try your Veterinarian, dog trainer, groomer, pet sitter or boarding kennel.

For online help, the AKC has a large database of Pure Breed Rescues available at http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm.

I always enjoy a relaxing game of fetch in the backyard with my Murphinator.  He is a retriever so naturally he enjoys playing and running around.  One of his favorite toys is your normal, everyday tennis ball, but he goes wild for the tennis balls that have a nylon strap attached to them.  I can’t quite figure out the difference except he likes to hold on to the strap and shake the ball from side to side after he fetches it.  It looks a little painful to me, but he loves it! 

Here are some other toys that are great for playing with your dog outside.

1. Throwing Disc – The best way to play with this one is in an open field or a safe environment where your dog has room to really move around.  I would suggest trying a park or school playground (after school hours, of course).  An important thing to remember with this toy is to make sure the disc is not too large for his mouth.  You don’t want to end up at the vet needing dental work!   
2. Tug of Rope – This toy is usually one that is enjoyed indoors while you sit on the couch holding one end and your dog plays on the other end.  This is a great toy to move outdoors to make playing a little more challenging.  This creates an opportunity for you and your dog to run around and chase each other, which is great exercise for you and your dog.  What a great bonding experience! 
3. Tennis Balls – I mentioned earlier the favorite tennis balls that many dogs love.  Recently, there has been a new twist added to the traditional favorite.  Some companies are making tennis balls that are infused with mint or peanut oil, which can help freshen your pooches breath while playing.  What a great idea!!  There are also ones that soak up water and can help keep your dog hydrated during those hot summer days.
4. Floating Toys – There are different variations of toys that are water friendly out there.  Some of them look like a ball with “legs” attached and are made of material that keeps the toy floating while your dog retrieves it.  If you have access to dog park with a pond that has a pond for your dog to play in, these toys are great!  You can work with your dog to train them to fetch the floating toy and it is a great workout. 
5. Bubbles – I know this one sounds a little different.  There are bubble machines out there that actually have chicken scented bubbles to entice your dog to chase and play with the bubbles.  I stumbled on to this outdoor toy when we were blowing bubbles in the backyard for our daughter.  Murphy seemed to enjoy them as much as our two-legged family member!

We would love to hear your comments about which outdoor toy is your dogs favorite!