Roo, a lovable 15-pound mixed-breed rescue, has found her happily-ever-after in the Wisteria Park neighborhood after a challenging start in life. When she’s not busy snuggling, snacking or strolling, Roo loves dishing out life advice to her furry friends and their humans. Her motto? “Treat yourself…literally.”
Have a question for Roo? Email IssaquahAskRoo@gmail.com.
Help, Roo!
There is so much to love about summer—sunshine, adventures and backyard zoomies around the doggie pool. But every year, there are nights filled with those terrifying loud explosions my humans call fireworks. I’m a German Shepherd, and protecting my family is my top priority, but it’s hard to do my job when I’m shaking with fear. How can I get over my fear of fireworks?
Help!
Desperate in Dahlia Park
Dear Desperate,
You are not alone, my friend! Even the toughest, most fearless alpha dogs can feel anxious when fireworks start booming. They come without warning and make loud noises we don’t understand (unlike a honking car, which we can see and recognize). Here’s what you need to do: let your humans protect you. I know, it goes against every instinct in our dog-brains but trust me—lean on them (literally).
Humans, listen up! Here’s how you can help your pups feel safer during fireworks:
- Be calm and reassuring. We know we’re not supposed to whine and bark, but when we’re scared, we need calming voices and cuddles—not anger and frustration.
- Keep us indoors. Even if we’ve never tried before, fear might make us run away to escape the threat posed by the fireworks.
- Make a safe space. If we have a crate, make sure it’s available. If not, let us stay close to you. Break out the blankets and stuffy toys.
- Try a calming wrap. There are special wraps designed to calm our anxiety by hugging our bodies with soothing pressure. For me, a cozy sweater does the trick!
While there’s no magic spell to erase our fear of fireworks, these tips can help make summer nights a little easier to handle. Stay safe, friend, and remember—you’re a brave pup, even if fireworks make you feel otherwise.
Paw-sitively yours,
ROO
Dear Roo,
I’d like to take my pup to the Bark Park, but I’m feeling nervous because I’ve never been to a dog park. What do I need to know?
From,
Daphne Park Dog Mom
Dear Dog Mom,
First of all—great choice! The Bark Park is a magical place filled with zoomies, sniffing adventures and new friendships (for you AND your pup). But I can understand your nerves! Here’s what you and your pup need to know for a fun and safe experience:
- Check the vibes before entering. Our Bark Park in Issaquah Highlands, like many dog parks, has separate areas for big and small dogs. Stop for a minute to watch the energy—if things seem too chaotic, it’s okay to walk around the pond and try again, or just come back later.
- Take leashes off inside. Dog parks are meant for free play, and adding a dog on a leash into the mix can create some tensions with the other dogs.
- Arrival matters. The bark park has a double gate. Enter the “foyer” as I like to call it. That’s where you can de-leash your pup. Make sure the first gate is closed before opening the second gate. Let your dog enter at their own pace—some pups rush in full speed ahead, while others take their time sniffing and saying hello.
- Do not leave your dog unattended. You can relax and chat with the other dog parents, but keep an eye on your pup! If a game turns too rowdy, a gentle intervention can help everyone stay happy.
- Poop happens! But you need to clean it up right away—no one wants to step on poop, even at the dog park. There are bags and a bin provided inside the park.
- Be careful with treats. It’s generally considered bad etiquette to bring treats to the dog park, but if you’re training your pup or they need the incentive, be very discrete and don’t share without permission—some dogs have allergies.
- Stay alert. If you’re standing in the middle of the dog park chatting, an excited pup could easily run into you. As the human, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye on both your dog and what’s happening around you.
- Don’t stay too long. All dogs have their own limits, unrelated to the conversation you’re having with a neighbor. Some get nervous or overwhelmed, and prefer short visits. If your pup gets aggressive, it’s time to call it a day.
Most importantly, have fun! You and your pup are about to embark on a grand adventure of tail wags and playtime!
Paw-sitively yours,
ROO
