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Everyone who shares a home with a Doodle should have a basic pet first-aid kit on hand. Keep your pet's first-aid kit in your home and take it with you if you are traveling with your pet.

One way to start your kit is to buy a first-aid kit designed for people and add pet-specific items to it. You can also purchase a pet first-aid kit from a pet-supply store or catalog. But you can easily assemble your own kit by gathering these items:

Phone numbers: your veterinarian, the nearest emergency-veterinary clinic and ASPCA poison-control center (800) 426-4435

• Self-cling bandage (bandage that stretches and sticks to itself but not to fur—available at pet stores
• Absorbent gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Antiseptic wipes, lotion, powder or spray
• Blanket (a foil emergency blanket)
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Gauze rolls
• Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting—do this only when directed by a veterinarian or a poison-control expert)
• Ice pack
• Non-latex disposable gloves
• Petroleum jelly (to lubricate the thermometer)
• Rectal thermometer (your pet's temperature should not rise above 103°F or fall below 100°F)
• Scissors (with blunt ends)
• Sterile non-stick gauze pads for bandages
• Sterile saline solution (sold at pharmacies)
• Tweezers
• Benadryl, if approved by a veterinarian for allergic reactions. A veterinarian must tell you the correct dosage for your pet's size.
• Ear-cleaning solution
• Expired credit card to scrape away insect stingers
• Nail clippers
• Non-prescription antibiotic ointment
• Flashlight
• Plastic eyedropper or syringe
• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) to clean the thermometer
• Splints and tongue depressors
• Styptic powder or pencil (sold at veterinary hospitals, pet-supply stores, and your local pharmacy)
• Temporary identification tag (to put your local contact information on your pet's collar when you travel)
• Towels
• Needle-nosed pliers

In addition to the items listed above, include anything your veterinarian has recommended specifically for your pet.

Check the supplies in your pet's first-aid kit occasionally and replace any items that have expired.

For your family's safety, keep all medical supplies and medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Coconut oil has been rapidly growing in popularity. The coconut, also known as the “tree of life” has been found to have many benefits not only for humans, but for our best friends as well. Fed regularly to pets, coconut oil can have many health benefits -for their skin, digestive and immune systems; metabolic function; and even their bone and brain health!

There are many healthful benefits to adding coconut oil to your Doodles's diet. The unrefined type has a taste that most dogs immediately love. You can incorporate it directly into your dog’s meal by adding a 1/4 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon, depending on the size of your dog. As with any added fat to a diet, you will want to start slowly so your dog can properly absorb and process the oil and avoid diarrhea.

The Top 10 reasons to add coconut oil to your dog’s diet:

• Coconut oil improves overall skin health, and clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin.
• Incredibly emollient, coconut oil helps moisturize the driest skin and makes a dog’s coat gleam with health — whether you add it to her diet, her shampoo, or both!
• Applied topically to the skin, coconut oil promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, bites, and stings.
• The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil help reduce doggy odor, and its pleasantly tropical aroma imparts a delightful scent to a dog’s skin and coat.
• Coconut oil prevents and treats yeast infections, including candida. Its antiviral agents also help dogs recover quickly from kennel cough.
• Digestion and nutrient absorption are improved by the addition of coconut oil to a dog’s diet. It can, however, cause stool to loosen; if that happens, just add a few spoonfuls of canned pumpkin to your dog’s diet.
• Coconut oil reduces — and sometimes eliminates — doggy breath. Some dog lovers even brush their pets’ teeth with it. Which makes sense, as dogs love the taste of coconut oil, and that makes the chore less arduous for brusher and brushee.
• Coconut oil helps prevent diabetes by regulating and balancing insulin. It also promotes normal thyroid function, and helps prevent infection and heart disease.
• Helping to reduce weight and increase energy, coconut oil also promotes mobility in dogs with arthritis and other joint issues.
• Coconut oil is excellent for brain health; it’s being used to stave off dementia in humans, and it’s a must to keep senior dogs’ minds from becoming cloudy.

Let us know if you have given coconut oil to your Labradoodle of Long Island!

The howlidays are fast approaching. As smart as our Doodles are, they are not giving us their holiday wish lists. Here are a few of the ultimate dog gifts that I’m barking about this season.

Pup-Casso Art Kit Help your Doodle create a masterpiece.

Automatic Dog Ball Launcher This interactive, automatic ball launcher keeps even the most enthusiastic fetch-loving Doodle entertained for hours.

WonderWoof Bow Tie The WonderWoof app is an exercise tracking social network for your dog.

GoPro Fetch Mount your GoPro to your Doodle to capture the world from their point of view.

The Ruff Guide to the United States This book features the best Doodle-friendly attractions and accommodations across the country.

Travel Mug Squeeze to fill the bowl with water. Any extra water will go back into the mug. It fits in your car's cupholder too.

Bark Box Your Doodle will be happy to hear the doorbell ring with this monthly delivery of treats and toys.

Bowser Beer Cheers! Let your Doodle drink this healthy beverage.

Happy Howlidays from Labradoodles of Long Island!

The holidays are rapidly approaching, and sometimes our Doodles are not welcome to join the rest of the family. As soon as your dates are confirmed, it is time to make your pet's reservations. Don't think of it as a punishment for your Doodle - boarding can be a fun, interactive experience for your dog to enjoy themselves in. Think of it as your pet's own private vacation.

Boarding options can include boarding in a private home or a pet hotel. Guests spend the day playing with friends, chasing tennis balls, playing tug-a-rope and being pampered by a caring staff in a climate-controlled facilities. They can relax in their own private suites, and some kennels even offer grooming (Sounds like my kind of spa vacation!). Many locations even allow for a "test run" of their accommodations, which will make the transition easier for both the humans and canines. Don't be afraid to ask questions: Kennels are used to dealing with doggie parents. Make sure that your pet is prepared by making sure that all immunizations are up to date, packing food and a favorite toy.

Familiar items can reduce your Doodle's stress levels. Dogs can pick up on their owner's emotions, so try to be happy and excited as you prepare for the drop-off. Photos, videos and webcams let you see your Doodle playing since a phone call doesn't suffice. Staff understand how you feel about your pets, and will make sure that they'll enjoy their stay - making the kennel their away from home.

Another option would be to have a pet sitter come to your home - a perfect option for pets who don't get allow with other animals.

There is no need to feel guilty about going on vacation without your pet - these pet resorts have thought of everything to make your fur-baby feel comfortable in your absence.

Check out our Doodle Directory for some suggestions.

Autumn has arrived. Halloween costumes and candy have hit the store shelves. Have you thought about dressing up your Doodle?

There are definitely some safety concerns about costumes. Make sure that your Doodle is comfortable. The costume should never obscure their vision or block nose or mouth. It should not constrict movement, hearing, or the ability to breathe or bark. Any attachment on the costume must be securely attached, so it does not become a choking hazard. It is a good idea to try on the costume. If they seem distressed, allergic, or show abnormal behavior, consider letting them go in their “birthday suit.” Festive bandanas work for party poopers.

Keep Halloween from being a nightmare for your dog. Check out our list of safety tips:

Collar & ID - Constant doorbell ringing can be stressful. Strangers will be dressed in costumes and yelling loudly for their candy. This is scary for our furry friends. Dogs are especially territorial and may become anxious and growl at innocent trick-or-treaters. Putting your dog in a secure room away from the front door will also prevent them from darting outside into the night … a night when no one wants to be searching for a lost loved one.

Halloween Candy - Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Many sugar-free candy and gum contain the sweetener xylitol, that can also be poisonous. The candy wrappers can be hazardous if swallowed.

Keep lighted pumpkins out of your dog's reach - Should they get too close, they run the risk of burning themselves or knocking it over and causing a fire.

Keep wires and electric light cords out of reach - If chewed, your pet could cut himself or herself on shards of glass or plastic, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

A safe Doodle is a happy Doodle!

How will the "Dog Days of Summer" effect your Doodle?

August gives us the most sweltering days of Summer. The sticky and humid temps are enough to make anyone lose their cool. Dogs are especially sensitive to extreme temperatures. Due to their physical makeup, they don’t have the ability to sweat all over like humans do, making it hard for them to cool down quickly. They might sweat a small amount through their pads, but the main way a dog cools off is by panting. They are at a high risk of overheating when the temps climb, which can be deadly if not controlled. Luckily, there are things you can do to keep them cool and safe during the summer.

Canine heat stress can be reduced by following this simple list.

• Water - Keep your Doodle hydrated! It is essential that you keep fresh, cool water available to your dog at all times. They should be drinking about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day.
• Change your walking time - It is best to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Temperatures are coolest at dawn or dusk. The asphalt or cement might even be hot enough to give your dog’s paws burns.
• Treats - Feed them treats that are cool, high in water content or both.
• Dive In - Kiddie pools are fun for your Doodle wade in or use as a giant drinking bowl.
• Proper Grooming - The undercoat is actually part of a dog’s natural cooling system, but if not properly maintained it can become matted and prevent air flow across your dog's skin.
• Most importantly, use common sense!

Fresh Fruits and Veggies for your Doodle

by Debbi Spiegel

June is National Fruit and Vegetable Month. June is also the month when the Farmer's Markets and farm stands have lots of local produce to sell. Farmer's markets feature locally grown, seasonal and delicious farm-fresh food. Many of the products are organic, chemical-free and naturally grown. Ease in to your weekend as you shop the local goods. Fruits and vegetables for dogs can rev up important nutrients in their diet and can make a refreshing (and grain free) snack. Doodles are welcome at these open air markets!

Here is a list of dog safe fruits and vegetables and their health benefits:

• Cantaloupe will help with your canine’s eyesight. Plus cantaloupes are loaded vitamin A and lots of beta carotene, which helps reduce the risk of cancer and prevents cell damage. It’s also a good source of vitamins B-6 and C, fiber, folate, niacin and potassium.
• Blueberries have high levels of resveratrol with anti-cancer and heart disease fighting qualities. They make a great option for your dog’s diet. Ideal for brain health, eye health and the cancer fighting properties.
• Watermelon is refreshing, full of water, and perfect for a fun snack on a hot summer day! Watermelon is full of vitamin A, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and water. Watermelon is great for helping rehydrate dogs.
• Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and more, strawberries make a healthy and tasty treat that is low in calories and high in taste and nutrition. Another excellent frozen treat for dogs.
• Apple flesh itself is healthy, crunchy, low calorie and refreshing. Full of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Do NOT feed the core or seeds - they contain arsenic! A few apple slices a day keeps the veterinarian away!
• Pears are light, low calories and refreshing. Pears contain vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium! Do not feed seeds/core. A few pear slices make an excellent summer treat.
• Bananas are a mini powerhouse of nutrition containing protein, vitamin B6, dietary fiber, potassium, iron, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, vitamin A and more. They are tasty and make a great fresh or frozen treat!
• Green beans are good for dogs because of their omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and K. They’re also a good source of calcium, copper, fiber, folic acid, iron, niacin, manganese, potassium, riboflavin and thiamin, as well as beta carotene. Essentially, they’re the superpower of vegetables for your pooch.
• Carrots raw or boiled are an excellent snack rich in beta carotene, carotenoids and vitamin A. When raw, they can help clean the teeth by acting as a crunchy chew for dogs to gnaw on. They are well known for improving red pigments in the fur.
• Sweet Potato is a highly nutritious vegetable full of beta carotene, vitamin A and vitamin E. This vegetable is best boiled and mashed or cut into chunks. Sweet potato is ideal in sick or bland diets to help bulk up food, add fiber and soothe the digestive system.
• Zucchini is best fed cooked. It is full of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin B-6. Zucchini is also low in calories. Zucchini is extremely popular in homemade dog food recipes for it's B vitamins and fiber.
• Cucumber is a refreshing, healthy and crunchy vegetable dogs love. This is a great low calorie, low sugar option for dogs. Cut into thick slices and freeze for a hydrating snack in the hot months.
• Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin B-6. Broccoli is fantastic steamed, baked or boiled, can be served cooked in the food bowl or given as a crunchy snack.
• Celery is ideal for dogs who need a healthy, very low calorie and low sugar treat. Crunchy and delicious with a high water content, this is a perfect treat for dogs. While it is not as nutrient dense as other vegetables, celery is a great source of potassium and fiber.

Bring reusable bags so that you can comfortably tote your bounty and bring your appetite so you and your Doodle can snack while you shop!

We are fortunate on Long Island to have a lot of doodle-friendly parks and beaches. Here are some of our favorites. Check with your town for resident only parks too. Make sure that your dog's vaccines are up to date and has taken Heartworm as well as flea and tick medication before venturing out.

• BlydenburghDogPark, Smithtown (631) 854-3713
  http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Parks/BlydenburghCountyPark.aspx

There are trails for hiking, lakes, fields and campgrounds. Also, an area where dogs can play off-leash.

• Selden Dog Park (631) 451-9101
  https://www.brookhaven.org/Departments/Parks-Recreation

The off-leash dog park, located between Boyle Road and Corvair Lane in Selden, is approximately 57,000 square feet, fully fenced and is divided into large dog and small dog areas (25 pounds and under).

• Eastern Long Island Kampgrounds, Greenport (631) 477-0022
  http://www.easternlikampground.net

Dog must have proof of rabies shot to play. There is a designated dog walk area. Certain breeds are not allowed, but doodles are.

• Gardiner County Park, West Bay Shore (631) 854-4949
  http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Parks/GardinerCountyPark.aspx

This is a great place to walk your dog on a leash by the water. There are lots of trails to explore. This is one of our favorites!

• Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park (631) 269-4333
  http://nysparks.com/parks/37/details.aspx

Dogs are allowed in underdeveloped areas of the park.

• Jeanne Garant Harborfront Park, Port Jefferson (631) 473-4724
  http://www.portjeff.com/

The park is located on the water behind the Town Community building. Dogs must be leashed, but can play on the beach. There is a doggie station too. They hold an annual costumed dog parade in October.

• Cupsogue Beach County Park, Westhampton (631) 852-8111
  http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Parks/CupsogueBeachCountyPark.aspx

• Smith Point County Park, Shirley (631) 852-1313
  http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Parks/SmithPointCountyPark.aspx

After enjoying the great outdoors you and your Doodle can share this refreshing treat.

Peanut Butter And Carob Frozen Dog Treat Recipe

Makes about 40 treats

Ingredients:

2 cups plain yogurt

1 cup natural peanut butter

1/2 cup carob chips

Directions:

Mix yogurt and peanut butter together. Combine until smooth.

Melt carob chips gradually microwave using a microwave safe bowl. Stir after every 15-30 seconds. You can also melt on the oven using a small saucepan. Melt until gooey or melted.

Pour the melted/gooey carob into the mixture. Stir until combined.

Spoon mixture in ice cube trays or molds. Place in freezer and leave overnight.

Serve to your pups – and enjoy one too! They’re yummy for dogs and people.