It’s easy to want to give your dog a big fat bowl of Christmas ham, mashed potatoes, and whatever else you think he might enjoy. It is a natural human tendency says, Ami The Chicago Dog Coach, “But that’s a bad idea for your dog’s health.”
Overindulging your Chicago dog in fatty foods can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, or pancreatitis (which can be life threatening. A few strips of raw turkey on a dog’s normal food is fine. Just don’t overdo it.
Fetch
This time-honored game requires nothing but a lightweight ball of relatively soft material (if it is too hard, the ball could damage your dog’s teeth) and a willing dog. Make sure the ball isn’t too small, otherwise he could accidentally swallow it while leaping. (Depending on the size of the dog, even a tennis ball could be too small.)
The object is of course to have your dog bring the ball back to you. That isn’t always the case; sometimes the dog trains the owner to run after the ball. Unless you don’t mind running at your dog’s whim, here are a few suggestions:
Don’t play if your dog pushes the ball at you then snatches it away as you reach for it, or if he dances around with the ball in his mouth, teasing you. You’re just reinforcing the idea that he can give you orders.
As the pack leader, YOU decide when to bring the ball out and when to throw it. Keep the ball in a special area that your dog is aware of, so when he sees you bring the ball out, he becomes excited and eager to please.
Follow the practice of performers to “leave ‘em begging for more.” In canine parlance, that means quit the game while he’s still interested, not when he becomes bored. Lavish praise on him immediately when he retrieves the ball and brings it to you.
You can substitute the ball with a Frisbee. To learn how to teach him the game, see the story Teaching Your Dog to Love Frisbee.
Dunk It
What would you rather do, watch overpaid athletes strut around a basketball court or play hoops with your dog? Teaching him how isn’t difficult, and he’ll be grateful for the chance.
Take a container such as a big cooking pot, laundry basket or large plastic pail and weight it down with a heavy object (so it won’t get knocked over).
Introduce your dog to the basket and the ball. As he watches, drop the ball into the bucket several times, while saying “Dunk It.”
Give him the ball, then bring him over to the bucket and say “Dunk It.” Do this until he drops the ball in the basket, then immediately praise him (you might give him a small treat as well). You’ll have to repeat this several times before he makes the connection between the reward and the action.
Swimming
If there’s a body of water nearby, your dog may want to go for a dip (only allow this if it’s safe AND permitted). Most dogs take to the water like ducks, but if he’s new to swimming, you’ll want to make sure he can swim. Never just throw him into the water, and always supervise his water activities.
Stand in shallow water and call to your dog. You may want to coax him with a toy or a treat. Your dog should use all four legs to doggie paddle. If he paddles with just his front paws, lift his rear legs to help him float. He’ll quickly understand that he needs all his legs to swim.
Swimming is strenuous to any creature not used to it, so don’t let your dog swim for too long. If you’re at the beach, watch out for strong tides, and don’t let your dog drink saltwater. (You should also be aware that your dog is a target for sea lice and jellyfish.)
Incidentally, if you take your dog to the beach, you should bring along fresh water and shade. Dogs can get sunburned too.
Jump
Begin by holding a hula hoop (still available at most toy stores, believe it or not!) upright, but on the floor. Lead your dog through the hoop, then reward him with praise. Repeat several times.
Raise the hoop several inches off the ground and lead him through again. Then let him go at it!
Keep raising the hoop a little more each time to make it more of a challenge, rewarding your dog each time he makes it through.
Tug-of-War
Dogs like playing tug-of-war, but it is important not to let the game get out of hand. Because dogs are, by instinct, hunters, the game reminds them of catching prey. It is important that you control the game. You can do this by choosing a proper tug toy such as a rope or leather tube that you keep in your possession. And you should control the starting and stopping of the tug action. Show off your dog’s grip by picking him up with the rope in his teeth.
Thanksgiving is celebrated in many homes in Chicago. You usual dog friendly feeding habits should be adhered to, to ensure your dog is kept safe during this Thanksgiving holiday period.
The enticing Thanksgiving dinner smells of turkey, stuffing and gravey, may cause your dog to get excited at the prospect of sharing in the feast. Here are fice simple tips to prevent your dog from suffering during the Thanksgiving period.
The Five Best Thanksgiving Dog Tips
“These tips have helped my clients have a safe and sane Thanksgiving for years,” says Ami Moore The Dog Whisperer of Chicago. “With a little careful planning you can avoid an expensive trip to the animal emergency clinic the day after Thanksgiving.”
The Dancing Dog Program is designed to send short movie-cards through email.
It is hilarious. 
It is easy to use and it will make you smile. 
If you love this-tell us so right here!
Barktoberfest 2008
Sunday, October 5, Noon to 4 PM
Howe Development Center, 7600 W. 183 St., Tinley Park
PAWS Tinley Park holds its major event for the season featuring demonstrations, a blessing of the pets, contests, bake sale, food, games and more. Admission to the event is free, though proceeds from the raffle and other contests will benefit the shelter.
This is a GREAT event!
I plan on being there with my fur babies!!
If you go send us your pictures. 
We are getting ready for the holidays. Halloween is the holiday that my dogs love the best. We are trying on costumes to figure out our themes. Here is one cute Halloween costume of my Toy Rat Terrier and her favorite pumpkins.
Do you have a cute Halloween picture of your dog? Why not post it here!
Big Night
Thursday, September 11, 6:30 PM to 9 PM
Chicago Cultural Center’s Preston Bradley Hall, 78 E. Washington, Chicago
More than a dozen of Chicago’s renowned chefs provide tastings of food to benefit the Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control. The evening will also include an open bar, blues by Dave Specter and the Bluebirds and a silent auction. Legendary journalist Bill Kurtis serves as the master of ceremonies. Admission is $80 per person.
Mutt Strutt
Saturday, September 13, 8:30 AM to 1 PM
Bank of America, 2163 N. Clybourn, Chicago
Chicagoland Canine Rescue Foundation holds its 5th annual fundraising walk, with events including music, food, drinks, entertainment, demonstrations and other activites. Registration is $40 per person.
Walk for the Animals
Saturday, September 13, 10 AM
Phillips Park, Aurora
The Fox Valley Animal Welfare League holds its second annual charity walk. The registration fee is $20, and people may participate with or without a pet.
Dog Wash
Saturday, September 13, 9 AM to 2 PM
C.A.R.E. Shelter, 2310 Oakton, Evanston
The Community Animal Rescue Effort holds its second Dog Wash fundraiser for the year. For $10, you can get your pooch washed and dried, and for another $10 you can get her nails clipped. All proceeds will benefit the shelter.
Responsible Dog Ownership Day
Saturday, September 13, Noon
Wolf Lake, 12800 Avenue O, Chicago
The South Side All Breed Dog Training Club hosts rescue groups, shelters, pet supply vendors and dog services for a picnic and dog celebration. The event is free.
Paws and Wine
Saturday, September 13, 3 PM to 7 PM
Wine Styles, 2445 75th St. Darien
Magnificent Mutts hosts a wine tasting fundraiser. A $20 donation covers tasting and hors d’oeurves. All the proceeds go to benefit the shelter. Tickets are available via e-mail or by calling Linda at 708-703-5047.
K9 Karnivale
Sunday, September 14, 10 AM to 1 PM
Grant Bark Park, in Grant Park, between Michigan Ave. and Columbus Dr., Chicago
It’s time for the South Loop DogPAC’s 3rd annual event, featuring games, contests, prizes, food and fun for humans and canines alike. Admission is free.
Happy Hour
Thursday, September 18, 7 PM
Irish Eyes, 2519 N. Lincoln, Chicago
Greyhound rescue group Greyhounds Only volunteers serve as bartenders for this happy hour. Unfortunately, because of space limitations, the only greyhounds present will be in the glasses. Tickets for the group’s raffle of a 1961 Corvette Roadster will be available. There is no cover, but tips will be donated to the Greyhounds Only.
Pet Loss and Grief Support Group
Thursday, September 18, 6 PM to 7:30 PM
Anti-Cruelty Society, 157 W. Grand Ave., Chicago
The Anti-Cruelty Society hosts a pet loss support group for people coping with the death of a pet. The sessions are let by Connie Steutzer, LCSW, who has 20 years experience in grief support work. The group meets on the first and third Thursday of the month and on the second and fourth Sunday from 2 PM to 3:30 PM. The group is free, but pre-registration is required for the first visit.
Golf Fore Goldens
Friday, September 19, 1 PM golf, 6 PM dinner
Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling
Golf and Golden Labrador enthusiasts gather at As Good As Gold’s fourth annual golf outing and dinner. The day begins with a shotgun-start, scramble-format golf outing, followed by a dinner and silent auction. Admission for golf and dinner are $145 per person. Dinner only is $35 per person.
The Winner’s Circle Pet Fair 08
Friday, September 19, 6 PM
Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lakeshore Dr., Chicago
Canine Therapy Corps hosts a gala event, featuring dinner, drinks, silent and live auctions and dancing. Prices include dinner for seven by Table 52 chef Art Smith, a private suite box at Arlington International Race Course and a Mirival spa retreat. While it’s not a dog-friendly event, CTC dogs will be in attendance. Individual admission is $200 per person, with table prices ranging between $2,000 and $10,000. To purchase tickets call 773-404-6467
Pet Fair 08
Saturday, September 20, 11 AM to 3 PM
Marvin Dunteman Park, 61 Witt Road, South Barrington
The South Barrington Park District holds its first annual Pet Fair, featuring vendors, vets, animal communicators and pet massage therapists. There will also be contests and prizes. Admission to the event is free.
Dog Wash
Saturday, September 20, Noon to 3 PM
Whole Foods Evanston South, 1111 Chicago Ave., Evanston
Red Door Animal Shelter volunteers will wash your dog for $10, which will include brushing and wipe-down. Proceeds will benefit the shelter.
Ruff’n It
Sunday, September 21, 10 AM to 1 PM
Greene Valley Forest Preserve, Naperville
Celebrate your four-legged friend with games, an agility course and more at this fest from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. Off-leash permits will be required in advance. They can be obtained by calling 630-580-7000.
Hogs for Dogs
Sunday, September 21, 9:30 AM
Heartland Animal Shelter, 2975 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook,
Motorcycle and dog enthusiasts are invited to ride for charity, raising money for the Heartland Animal Shelter. The ride begins at the shelter and ends at Side-Outs Bar & Grill, where live music will be performed by Loose Connection. Pre-registration for the ride is $25, while day-of registration is $30.
Cruisin’ For Critters Motorcycle Run
Sunday, September 21, 10 AM
Joey B’s, 1625 Rt. 176, Burton’s Ridge
The Assisi Animal Foundation holds a charity motorcycle ride. After the ride, a Western band will perform (at approximately 3:30). Drivers are $20, passengers are $5. Call 815-455-9411 to register.
Sam-O-Rama
Sunday, September 21, Noon to 6 PM
Busse Woods, Grove #4, Arlington Heights
Northern Illinois Samoyed Assistance holds the Midwest’s largest picnic and fundraiser for Samoyed owners and lovers. Admission is $15 per adult, $12 for children. Dogs are free.
Dog’s Night Out
Thursday, September 25, 6 PM to 11 PM
Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie, Chicago
Lake Shore Animal Shelter holds its gala fundraiser, featuring drinks, smooth jazz and a celebrity dog-judging contest. The evening will also include a silent auction, lavish dog buffet and dinner for the humans. Tickets are $100 per person, but dogs are free. Only one dog per person, please.
Snoopy DogFest
Saturday, September 27, 9 PM
Hollister Incorporated, 2000 Holister Drive, Libertyville
The Chicago office of Canine Companions for Independence holds a walkathon to help raise money for the group to breed, train and place assistance dogs. The DogFest will include a 2-mile walk, vendor booths, pet and family activities and a live auction. There are prizes for certain pledge levels beginning at $25.
Run for Their Lives
Sunday, September 28, 9 AM
Montrose Harbor, Montrose and the Lakefront, Chicago
Late September means it’s time for PAWS’ annual fundraiser. This year, the organization’s 8th, features an 8K run and a 4K dog-friendly walk. The day will also include a costume contest, agility courses and other activities as well as food and entertainment. Advance registration is $35 per adult and $25 for children $12 and under. Day-of registration is $40 for adults and $30 for kids. Dogs are free.
BarkaPalooza
Sunday, September 28, 10 AM to 2 PM
Patriot Park, Downers Grove
The West Suburban Humane Society holds a walkathon and pet expo featuring clowns, face painting, breed-specific rescue groups and a kids and kindness zone. Registration and fundraising pages can be completed online.
Canine Cruise
Sunday, September 28, 1 PM to 3 PM
Chicago River and the Lakefront, (Ogden Slip near Navy Pier), Chicago
Young-at-Heart holds its third annual Canine Cruise for dogs and dog lovers The 2-hour cruise spends half its time on the Chicago River and half on the lakefront. The event will include raffles, door prizes and birthday cake for the dogs. Tickets are $18.50 per person; dogs are free.
Barktoberfest 2008
Sunday, October 5, Noon to 4 PM
Howe Development Center, 7600 W. 183 St., Tinley Park
PAWS Tinley Park holds its major event for the season featuring demonstrations, a blessing of the pets, contests, bake sale, food, games and more. Admission to the event is free, though proceeds from the raffle and other contests will benefit the shelter.
Blessing of the Pets
Sunday, October 5, 10 AM to 1 PM
St. Luke’s Church, 939 Hinman Ave., Evanston
The St. Luke’s Church celebrates its 4th Annual Blessing of the Pets in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.
Paws … For Life
Sunday, October 5, 11 AM to 3 PM
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, 450 W. Highway 22, Barrington
Northern Illinois Samoyed Assistance and Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital’s breast cancer support group hold a joint fundraiser, featuring a walk and dog festival. The day will include canine demonstrations, a dog costume contest, raffles, a kids’ activity booth, vendors and adoptable dogs. Advance registration is $20 per person. Day of registration is $25.
Annual Bark Walk
Sunday, October 5, 10 AM to 2 PM
Willard Woods Park, 515 First St., Crete
The South Suburban Humane Society raises money with its annual walk and pet Fun Fair. The day will include vendors, demonstrations, behaviorists, contests and activities for both kids and pets. Advance registration is $20. Day of registration is $25.
H.E.L.P. Dinner Auction and Raffle
Friday, October 10, 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 Main Street, St. Charles Homes for Endangered and Lost Pets holds its 6th annual fundraiser, including live band, silent auction, raffles and door prizes. Dinner tickets are $40, but admission does not include drinks. Email for more information.
Black Cat Ball
Friday, October 10, 6 PM
Meson Sabika, 1025 Aurora Ave., Naperville
The Naperville Area Humane Society holds its Black Cat Ball, with dinner, dancing and tunes from the Michael Heaton Band. Auction items will include a week’s stay in Jamaica, tours of CBS 2 and NBC 5 and a cat-shaped diamond pendant. Tickets are $150 per person, $1,500 for table of 10. Proceeds benefit the NAHS.
Lure Coursing Fundraiser
Sunday, October 12, 9 AM to 4 PM
King’s Kennels, 238 Saunders Road, Riverwoods. The Greater Chicago Cavalier Rescue holds a day of lure coursing, where dogs chase an artificial lure around a course. All profts from the even will be helped to rescue Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, providing them with medical care. Pre-registration cost is $10 per dog for two runs ($5 for each additional run). Day-of registration is $15 for two runs ($8 for each additional run). Registration forms and additional information are available at the GCCR Web site.
It’s Raining Cats and Dogs
Thursday, October 16, 6:30 PM to 10 PM
Anti-Cruelty Society, 510 N. LaSalle, Chicago.
A variety of top Chicago chefs offer tastings, as well as wine, beer and other offerings to benefit the Anti-Cruelty Society. The evening will also include a jazz band, interaction with the shelter’s resident animals and a silent auction. Admission is $125 per person in advance, $140 at the door. A reserved table of four (with parking) can be had for $600. To register call 312-751-5507.
Howl-o-ween Dog Costume Contest
Saturday, October 18, 2 PM to 4 PM
Puptown Dog Park, Marine Dr. and Lawrence Ave.
A spooky-themed fundraiser featuring a raffle, treats and costume contest for dogs and their owners. Entry fee for the contest is $5, and proceeds go to benefit the dog park.
Chicago’s 6th Annual RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR is almost here!! This year’s event the biggest yet, featuring 250 booths and over 300 artists! Come out September 13 + 14 to see these amazing talents from Noon – 10pm each day. We’ll be setting-up shop along Division St. between Damen & Hermitage in Wicker Park. Well mannered, non-aggressive dogs are welcome.
Each individual fair draws hundreds of applicants and tens of thousands of shoppers from all over the country and abroad! At the RCF you’ll find all sorts of cool handmade stuff ranging from comic books to craft kits, silk-screened posters to reconstructed clothing. This is a great opportunity to socialize your dog to the sights, sounds and people of a large city. People of every size, color, shape and width will be eager to play with your puppy.
RCF is one of the first events of its kind, having started out in Chicago’s Wicker Park in 2003 and spreading like wildfire ever since! The first fair was 1 day and featured 75 vendors from all over the country. Today in 2008, each unique event features over 200 of the most talented craftsters nationally as well as from around the globe! Brooklyn’s event takes place at the historic McCarren Park Pool. Chicago’s September event sets up shop down the middle of Division St. from Damen – Wood. The Holiday Sale is held at Pulaski Park in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood.
The Renegade Craft Fair is organized by Sue Daly, whose a crafter herself, and designs jewelry under the name Timber Handmade. The inspiration for RCF came when Sue took back up her childhood hobby after college, and had some success selling a few pieces. She wanted to take her hobby to the next level and started looking for local fairs to participate in. Surprisingly, no events were catering to the burgeoning DIY craft community so prevalent online – and often even rejected crafty applicants altogether. So, with a childhood friend, RCF was started and provided an exciting, fresh venue for artists and shoppers alike.
On May 21, 2007 , she got the keys to a cute little storefront on Division St. in Chicago, and just over 2 months later, the doors to Renegade Handmade were open for business! The shop is an extension of the craft fairs, and features the handmade work of over 100 craftsters. http://www.renegadecraft.com/chicago/index.html#
Mercury Canine Cruise
Location: Riverside Gardens, southeast corner-lower level of Michigan Avenue & Wacker Drive
Mercury Canine Cruise Chicago’s only cruise for canines, Mercury Canine Cruise sets sail at 10 am each Sunday in July, August and September, beginning Sunday, July 13, 2008. Dog-loving first mates welcome well-behaved and leashed canines aboard for the 90-minute lake and river tour with lively commentary about dog-friendly Chicago.
On-board amenities include large bowls of fresh water, a newspaper-lined restroom and, of course, dog treats. $7 for each dog; $22 for adults, $10 for each child (under 3 years are free) Tickets go on sale each Sunday at 8:30 am. More at http://www.mercuryskylinecruiseline.com
We are so convinced of the superiority of our dog training methods that we have issued an updated and revised Dog Training Challenge
