The 2010 “March for the Animals” will be held April 18th, Sunday at Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park. Registration is no open to help Maryland SPCA’s largest annual fundraiser. Mark your calendars as this 1.5 mile walkathon is a great way for animal-lovers to support the SPCA’s mission of helping pets and people. The day will host many activities including: pet contests, an agility course, training classes, pet demonstrations and entertainment. For more info, please contact Maryland SPCA.

As dog-owners we know the dangers of human food for our pups (like garlic, onions, chocolate). However here is a short list of foods you may already have in your kitchen that your dog may love:

• White rice – helpful when your dog’s tummy is upset
• Blueberries – cancer-fighting benefits
• Peas – a great source of vitamins
• Peanut butter – a great trick in hiding medication, but can be smeared on your dog’s toys for some healthy fun
• Lean meat with no visible fat or seasoning (chicken, beef, pork) – packed with vitamins and amino acids to help build your dog’s muscles
• Pumpkin with no seasoning or seeds – good nutritional value

With any of these items listed above, please be sure to give in moderation. You may want to consult your vet for other human food substitutes to create a more balanced meal for your furry kid.

Call in sick on Tuesday, March 9th – it’s National Napping Day. Make sure to snuggle with your pooch whether in bed, on the couch or the rug.

Seriously National Napping Day started by Boston University Professor William Anthony in an attempt to adjust to daylight savings time. By napping, the professor states, we increase our work performance and reduce chances of heart related problems.

It’s a good excuse to honour your dog.

Routine veterinary visit are essential for your dog’s health. While spring is officially two weeks away, ask your vet what preventative flea & tick treatments they suggest. Your pooch will be happier while doing her zooms through the dog run rather than scratching and licking her coat.

Of course there can be other more serious underlying health issues that only your vet could discovered during a thorough examination. Some vet offices offer low cost vaccinations during certain days of the week.

If you’re planning on visiting Baltimore or are lucky enough for you and your pooch to live there, Wet Nose Guide has recently added B’More to our ever expanding list of cities.

Baltimore’s hotels welcome you and your four legged buddy. Some offer treats upon checking in. There are lots of dog-friendly restaurants and cafe to grab a bite to eat along Light Street. Dangerously Delicious Pies is a wonderful excuse to rest your feet and tired paws after a leisurely stroll.

If you’re looking for a more historical look, visit Baltimore’s waterfront district along Thames Street.

And lastly, be sure to reward your traveling friend with a worthwhile trip to Baltimore Dog Bakery where they specialize in organic treats and treats for dogs with allergies.

The Saluki is considered the oldest known domesticated dog breed, found in Iran around 3500 BC and in the Egyptian Tombs as far back as 2100 BC. Known for their elegance and speed, the Saluki is a sight hound that traveled throughout the Middle East.

They will “sing” in a high pitched howl when bonding with its family. Their lifespan is over a dozen years. With top speeds reaching 40 mph, this natural athlete does well in warm climates and in a large fenced area. Dog owners bike with their Saluki by their side to ensure their dog receives the proper daily exercise. If you are interested in adopting these rare beauties, contact the Saluki Center.

Before letting your dog out to run in the backyard, take a look at your plants. Some may be toxic!

Here is a short list of toxic plants to keep away from your pooch:

• Azalea
• Castor Bean
• Cyclamen
• Foxglove
• Kalanchoe
• Oleander
• Sago Palm
• Yew

Survey your yard for other toxic plants and physical hazards (i.e. metal stakes, rakes, shovels and other garden tools) to ensure your dog has a healthy outdoor environment to enjoy.

If your dog had the unfortunate mishap at the dog run by falling off a bench or perhaps injured himself during a session of tug-of-war, make sure to take him immediately to the local vet or 24-hour emergency hospital.

Some vets may recommend holistic treatments (i.e. acupuncture, warm massage) or water therapy. Just be sure that the therapy is approved by your vet prior to starting any regiment to getting your dog back on his paws.

Slow-mo dogs are awesome!

Love this ad for Pedigree!

With over a dozen dog-friendly parks in Austin, your pooch can explore trails and off leash areas without getting bored. Here is a short list of parks to enjoy leisurely strolls or play fetch with a Frisbee or tennis ball:

• Bull Creek Park
• Red Bud Isle
• Zilker Park

Bring water for your pooch and seek the shade with frequent pit stops throughout the day to ensure your pooch is ready for the next sprint.