Like many of you, our house is going back to school this week. My daughter actually started last week and my husband, a kindergarten teacher, started today. We are getting back into our school routine but this year is a little different with the addition of a very active doodle. He loves to be right in the middle of all the excitement which means under my feet as I simultaneously unload the dishwasher, make lunch and get breakfast started. Or his other favorite activity is slowing down my already slow moving daughter.
I have started using a snuffle mat to keep him occupied for at least part of the busiest time. You can find instructions for making a snuffle mat on his Pinterest page. I used this mat I found on Amazon for the base and leftover fleece material from a blanket I made for him. I used a lighter weight one I found at a dollar type store but it didn't work well. In order for the pieces to stay, you have to tie them pretty tight and this caused the mat to curl up. We also use a lick mat at times but I don't like it as much. It can be difficult to clean if you use peanut butter because it really gets down in the groves. I add about a 1/4 cup of dog food or his favorite treats and getting his snuffle mat ready has just become part of the pre-walk routine.
Speaking of walks...Ivan and I really enjoy our morning walk. We work on sit, high five and other training and we get to enjoy some quiet time in the morning. As Ivan has gotten bigger (he is 6.5 months and 40lbs) he has started pulling a bit. Both of our trainers suggested a front clip harness. I purchased this one which has been a game changer! I now feel like I am walking Ivan rather than him walking me.
His favorite part of back to school is the car rider line for school. He loves seeing all the kids, teachers and saying good-bye/greeting his favorite girl. The new harness also has a back clip that works perfectly with his seat belt. I never used a seat belt for a dog before but now I can't imagine ever not using one. Our others dogs weren't big for riding in the car but I got Ivan used to it right away. The seat belt not only keeps him safe but it also keeps him from roaming around in the car.
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