Dear Dr. Woof,

I am a beautiful chocolate Lab mix named Dove.  I got adopted last spring when I was 2 years old.  I love my people and the kids are so much fun.

This summer we did a lot of hiking and played Frisbee every day.  I even slept in the tent with the kids on a backyard camp out and they weren't afraid because I was there.  We went on a vacation and I got to go swimming a whole bunch of times.

I'm really happy here, but the Fall is different.  After my morning walk, the kids leave for school and they pop in after to change for something called "practice."  After dinner they are at their desks a lot before we finally get to play again.  Things are mostly good, but I've gotten into trouble this Fall when I'm here by myself - little things like emptying the wastebaskets or "unstuffing" a pillow.  Sometimes it's boring till they come back.  Can you help fix what's wrong with me?

- Lonesome Dove

Dear Dove,

There's nothing wrong with you!  You called it -- after your summer of fun you are simply a bit bored because the Fall schedule leaves you home alone more often.

Your family can easily remedy that dilemma and have actually started to do so by making sure you get a walk before school and special play time at night.  Speaking of "back to school," it's not just for kids, you know.  A weekly basic training course would be a fun activity and would keep your mind sharp as well, even if you've never been to school it's never too late to start.  If you are already fairly well trained you might enjoy an active agility class, some competitive rally obedience, or a Rompin' Rovers play class.  Dog schools like St. Hubert's have a wide array of courses that you and your family can enjoy together in as little as an hour a week.

A little planning for those hours that you are home alone will ensure the safety of the wastebaskets, pillows and other things you are choosing to amuse yourself.  A Kong ® toy stuffed with tasty banana, dog treats and peanut butter will keep you busy for some time.  It can be prepared and frozen overnight and given to you in the morning when everyone leaves.  The local pet supply store has lots of "puzzle" toys.  When filled with treats, they provide endless activity and mental stimulation for dogs during times when no humans are available for play.

With a little bit of extra planning your family can ease you into the Fall schedule and your loneliness will subside.  If your people begin to notice that you need a little extra exercise after your busy summer they can consider having a pet sitting service provide a midday walk.

Summer is great, but don't worry - the other seasons aren't bad, they're just different.  With a little help from your humans you'll learn to love them all!

- Dr. Woof

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