Lawrence, KS August 2024

LOCAL SERVICES

MEET THE PET FOSTERS

ARTS + CULTURE

THE YOUNG ARTISTS AT THE LAWRENCE ARTS CENTER

LIFE + CULTURE TIPS ON ADOPTING PETS FOR KIDS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

HOW TO GET A PERFECT FAMILY PORTRAIT

Celebrating Kids and Pets

At Lawrence City Lifestyle, we believe that children and pets make so many of us thrive in Lawrence. They symbolize the future, brimming with potential and endless possibilities. Their curiosity and wonderment remind us of the beauty in everyday life, encouraging us to see the world through their untainted eyes. Education and community involvement are pillars of Lawrence; our children benefit greatly from these opportunities. Their pets are supportive and loving but sometimes challenging, too. Schools, playgrounds, and community events are not just venues for learning and play; friendships are forged, values are instilled, and the foundation for a brighter tomorrow is laid.

Our pets embody unconditional love and companionship and are often important to the children. Pets offer stability and comfort in a world that can sometimes feel fragmented and hurried. Whether it's a dog wagging its tail in sheer delight, a cat purring softly, or even a hamster spinning energetically in its wheel, these animals enrich our lives in countless ways. They teach us empathy, responsibility, and the joys of simple pleasures. For many residents of Lawrence, pets are not just animals; they are family members who bring warmth and laughter into our homes.

Together, children and pets create a unique dynamic that enhances our community. They remind us to nurture and protect the most vulnerable among us, fostering a sense of compassion and unity. Programs and initiatives that support the well-being of children and pets are integral to so many in our community, such as The Lawrence Arts Center's classes for young artists and the Humane Society's fostering program. We believe in advocating for safe spaces, educational opportunities, and healthcare access for our children, as well as promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

I am fortunate to be celebrating the birth of my second grandson in Germany and away too often. With that in mind, I asked City Lifestyle to identify a Publisher who is in town and available when I am away. They found someone, so look for those changes, but note that our editor, Linda Ditch, is still here and will support us through those adjustments!

We ventured out into our community to see what we could learn about kids and pets. We were once again delighted. As we all prepare to return to school, work, travel, clubs, and event planning for the fall, let us think of our children and pets. And celebrate the changes at City Lifestyle that support our community today and moving forward.

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Denise DeTommaso denise.detommaso@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Linda Ditch | linda.ditch@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Meredithe McCormick meredithe.mccormick@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nathan Hutchcraft | nathan@fabuluxmedia.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Ditch, Denise DeTommaso

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anthony Fergola, Kristol Kumar

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THADDEUS WINTER, SUSAN SCHMITZ, KARA KENDALL-MORWICK

Meet the Fosters

THREE LONG-TIME PET FOSTER PARENTS SHARE WHAT IT IS LIKE TO CARE FOR NEEDY ANIMALS

The Lawrence Humane Society is well known for caring for animals brought to the shelter. However, sometimes those furry friends thrive with care outside of a shelter setting before they’re ready for adoption. That is why pet fosters are so essential.

Elina Alterman, LHS Director of Development and Communications, says, “Fosters are just invaluable for several reasons. They give animals a break from the shelter environment. They also give us good information about what the pet is like in a home setting, so it’s easier to find them a permanent home.”

Three LHS pet fosters share their experiences of caring for homeless animals.

“Knowing we are returning the foster to be adopted is the best, and it means we can welcome another animal into our home...”

Thaddeus Winter

LCL: HOW LONG HAVE YOU FOSTERED PETS?

We have been fostering for Lawrence Humane Society for about two years now. We were also fosters for Hawaii Humane Society before moving back to Lawrence in 2019-2020.

LCL:  WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO DO IT?

We are animal lovers, and there’s a huge need for fosters throughout the US. Fostering is such a fun, rewarding experience. Lawrence Humane has a terrific fostering program with all the support you could ask for. They provide all supplies, food, medical care, etc., and even have a fostering group on social media that is a great resource for fosters.

LCL:  HOW MANY ANIMALS HAVE YOU FOSTERED?

We have fostered approximately 50 dogs/puppies with Lawrence Humane Society.

We have primarily fostered mamas and their puppies but have also fostered other doggos.

LCL: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE?

I could go on and on, but it boils down to providing care and love to mamas and their puppies, who are such a vulnerable demographic.

LCL: IS IT HARD TO LET A FOSTER PET GO?

Of all our fosters, we have only kept one puppy, Bennie. He was part of the first mama and puppy litter we fostered with Lawrence Humane Society.  Knowing when we return the foster to be adopted is the best, and it means we can welcome another animal into our home that’s in need!

“Fostering him was a crash course in feral kitten socialization. Once I gained his trust, I couldn't let him go...”

Kara KendallMorwick

LCL:  HOW LONG HAVE YOU FOSTERED PETS?

I’ve volunteered with animal welfare organizations since I was a teenager and have fostered here and there, but I started fostering regularly in 2020.

LCL:  WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO DO IT?

There are many reasons, not least of which is that it’s pretty fun having kittens around! A big inspiration was my cat, Vincent. While teaching at a university in another state, some friends and I started working on curbing the population of free-roaming cats on campus through TNR (trap-neuter-return). He was just a kitten, so I agreed to foster him so he could be adopted rather than live on campus. Fostering him was a crash course in feral kitten socialization. Once I gained his trust, I couldn’t let him go, so he became a “foster fail.”

I realized that many kittens like him are born outdoors and need intervention at the right time to become adoptable pets. Foster homes are crucial to this intervention because shelters can’t house and socialize all the kittens until they are ready for adoption. Plus, kittens are vulnerable to disease and difficult to keep healthy in a shelter environment.

LCL:  WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE?

My favorite type of fostering is still feral kittens. They start out as hissy little things -- we call them “spicy” -- or sometimes shut-down little statutes, and then within a few days (or even hours), they will be playing, eating out of your hands, and purring in your lap.

“I see my job as a lifesaving bridge for pets between the shelter and their forever home.”

Susan Schmitz

LCL:  HOW LONG HAVE YOU FOSTERED PETS?

Oh my gosh! A long time, probably before we even used the word “foster!” The first time I remember keeping a dog was when I was in grad school in Colorado, back in the early 1970s. I have fostered on a regular basis for 25ish years.

LCL:  WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO DO IT?

In a nutshell, to save lives!! Over the years, I have preferred fostering at-risk kittens and cats with significant medical or behavioral issues. Even the best shelters (like LHS) cannot devote the resources to manage those challenges, especially these days. Shelters can be noisy and stressful, especially for shy or scared animals. Providing a loving, quiet, and safe place for those animals to decompress, learn, and grow also helps alleviate some of the burden on shelters.

LCL:  IS IT HARD TO LET A FOSTER PET GO?

Well, yes, sometimes it is. As a foster, I have invested a lot of emotion and time. But I see my job as a lifesaving bridge for pets between the shelter and their forever home. When they are ready for adoption, I always provide the adoption team with as much information as I have—-everything from litter and food preferences to favorite play and snuggle activities to personality quirks. My goal is to help the adoption team find the absolute best home for my fosters. Knowing I am part of saving these lives and helping these animals find loving homes is tremendously rewarding.

To learn more about the Lawrence Humane Society’s foster program, visit LawrenceHumane.org.

A GUIDE TO MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

Adopting Pets for Children

Bringing a pet into your family can be a wonderful experience, especially for children. Pets teach responsibility and compassion, and can provide endless joy. However, choosing the right pet requires careful consideration, particularly when children are involved. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision and ensure a harmonious addition to your household.

ASSESSING YOUR FAMILY’S READINESS

Before adopting a pet, evaluate your family’s lifestyle and readiness. Consider factors such as the ages of your children, your living situation, and your daily routines. Young children, especially those under five, might not have the maturity to handle a pet gently. Older children can participate more actively in pet care but might still need supervision and guidance.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF PET

Different pets have different needs and temperaments. Here’s a breakdown of common pet options and considerations for each:

1. Dogs:

• Pros: Loyal, active, and great for outdoor activities.

• Cons: Require significant time for training, exercise, and socialization.

• Best For: Families with enough time and space for daily walks and play. Suitable for children who are old enough to understand how to interact gently and respectfully.

2. Cats:

• Pros: Independent, relatively low-maintenance, and affectionate.

• Cons: May be aloof and require a litter box.

• Best For: Families looking for a less demanding pet than a dog but still providing companionship. Suitable for children who can handle a pet gently and understand the importance of a calm environment.

3. Small Mammals (Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits):

• Pros: Requires less space, relatively easy to care for, and can be kept in a cage.

• Cons: Some are nocturnal, have shorter lifespans, and require regular cage cleaning.

• Best For: Families with limited space or those looking for a starter pet. Suitable for younger children

with adult supervision, as these pets can be delicate and require gentle handling.

4. Fish:

• Pros: Low maintenance, calming to watch, and don’t require direct interaction.

• Cons: A clean and well-maintained tank is required.

• Best For: Families who want a pet with minimal upkeep. Suitable for children of all ages, especially as a first pet to learn responsibility.

5. Birds:

• Pros: Social, intelligent, and can be trained to interact.

• Cons: Requires a clean cage, can be noisy, and needs social interaction.

• Best For: Families ready for a pet that requires daily attention and interaction. Suitable for older children who can handle a bird gently and responsibly.

MAKING THE FINAL DECISION

Once you’ve considered the type of pet, visit local shelters or rescue organizations. Spend time interacting with potential pets to gauge their temperament and suitability for your family. It’s essential to involve your children in this process, teaching them the importance of commitment and empathy.

PREPARING FOR YOUR NEW PET

Before bringing your new pet home, ensure you have all necessary supplies, such as food, bedding, and toys. Set clear expectations with your children about their roles in caring for the pet. Establish feeding, cleaning, and playtime routines to integrate the pet smoothly into your daily life.

Adopting a pet is a significant commitment that can bring immense joy and learning experiences to your family. By carefully considering your family’s lifestyle and choosing the right type of pet, you can create a loving and enriching environment for both your children and your new furry or feathered friend. Talk with the Lawrence Humane Society team or visit Pet World to speak about all the different options for pets to ensure age-appropriateness and understand what you will need to keep the new pet safe and healthy.

4106 W 6th St, Suite C Lawrence, KS 66049

Phone is 785-841-6776

jmoravec@amfam.com

The Dog Parks of Lawrence

Lawrence is known not only for its vibrant arts scene and the University of Kansas but also for its welcoming environment for dog owners and their furry friends. The city offers several well-maintained dog parks that provide ample space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. These parks are more than just recreational areas; they are community hubs where dog owners can connect and share their love for pets. Here’s a detailed look at the dog parks in Lawrence, Kansas.

MUTT RUN OFF-LEASH

DOG PARK

Location: 1330 E 902 Rd

Nestled near Clinton Lake, Mutt Run OffLeash Dog Park is a sprawling 30-acre

ARTICLE BY DENISE DETOMMASO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

paradise for dogs and their owners. This park is one of the largest in the area, offering vast open spaces where dogs can run freely. It features open fields and wooded areas, catering to different types of play and exploration.

Amenities:

Large open fields for running and fetching

Wooded trails for adventurous hikes

Shaded areas for resting

A small pond where dogs can cool off and swim

Benches and picnic tables for owners

Waste disposal stations to keep the park clean

Mutt Run is ideal for dogs that need a lot of space to expend their energy. The park’s varied terrain also provides a stimulating environment that can keep dogs engaged and happy.

RIVERFRONT PARK DOG PARK

Location: 1595 N 3rd St

Riverfront Park Dog Park is another excellent choice for Lawrence residents. Located along the Kansas River, this park offers beautiful scenic views and a serene environment for dogs and their owners. While smaller than Mutt Run, it still provides plenty of space for dogs to play and socialize.

Amenities:

Fenced areas for safe off-leash play

Separate sections for large and small dogs

Water stations to keep dogs hydrated

Shaded benches for owners

Walking paths for leisurely strolls

Riverfront Park is perfect for dog owners looking for a more controlled environment where they can keep a closer eye on their pets. The separate areas for different-sized dogs also help ensure that all pets can play safely and comfortably.

CENTENNIAL PARK

Location: 600 Rockledge Rd

Though not exclusively a dog park, Centennial Park is a dog-friendly space that offers a pleasant setting for on-leash walks and play. The park’s well-kept grounds and variety of recreational facilities make it a popular spot for families and their pets.

Amenities:

Walking trails that wind through the park

Open grassy areas for on-leash play

Shaded picnic areas

Playgrounds for children

Sports facilities for various activities

Centennial Park is great for families who want to combine a day out with their children and pets. The park’s amenities ensure everyone, including the dog, can enjoy a fun and relaxing outing.

DEVICTOR PARK

Location: 1100 George Williams Way

DeVictor Park is another dog-friendly space that, while not exclusively for dogs, offers plenty of opportunities for on-leash activities. The park is known for its beautiful landscaping and peaceful environment.

Amenities:

Paved walking trails

Open fields for play

Native prairie restoration areas

Playground and picnic shelters

DeVictor Park is ideal for dog owners looking for a tranquil place to walk their pets while enjoying nature. The park’s focus on native plants and natural beauty makes it a refreshing spot for dogs and their owners.

YOUNG ARTISTS

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR

THE LAWRENCE ARTS CENTER OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL AGES

While local schools are quiet during the summer, the Lawrence Arts Center is alive with kids and teens exploring their creative skills. Young artists can try their hand at everything from painting, sculpture, and fabric design to ballet and theater performances. If it’s art, there is probably a class available.

Soon-to-be fourth grader Rosella Kramer was busy in the Make it Move kinetic art class, learning to make the trunk of her cardboard elephant move with hydraulics. On the performance stage, young actors and dancers were rehearsing with Ric Averill for a performance of his musical adaptation of Alice in Wonderland. And in the beginning pottery class, incoming Southwest Middle

CONTINUED >

School eighth-grader Brooklynn Schwab was making a mug covered in moons.

Lawrence High School freshman Memphis Branum was looking at the mug he made with a critical eye.

“I don’t like this handle,” he says. “I think the handle is kind of weak.”

Branum has taken several classes at the Art Center, including sketching, painting, and figure drawing. His favorite was a class with live models. While drawing is what he enjoys the most, his mom suggested the pottery class to expand his artistic experience.

“Art is just an easy way to wind down. I guess I have a pretty low attention span, so if I get bored of something, just doodling on something just started it for me. Last year, I would doodle on my school paper, and then I realized, yeah, I kind of like this. It’s kind of fun. So, I’ve been taking a bunch of art classes here this summer,” he explains.

Since 1974, the center has opened the art world to people from the youngest preschoolers to adults with the motto, “Art is for everyone.”

Chief Communications Officer Amanda Roberts says, “Because we really, truly believe that art is for everyone, and if it’s going to be for everyone, we have to include everyone from toddlers and our tiny tunes classes through preschool and kindergarten, all the way up, including adults.”

Roberts, who has taken classes herself, notes the instructors are also artists from throughout the community who are welcoming to everyone who wants to learn the processes necessary to create. Often, some of the students repeat the class, and they help assist new students and share helpful techniques they’ve discovered on their own.

“We have created some really incredible communities here at the Art Center,” she says.

The Lawrence Arts Center

The Lawrence Arts Center is located at 940 New Hampshire Street. Enrollment for fall classes begins August 1st for members. Open enrollment starts August 8th. They also offer homeschool and after-school art classes. Plus, there are courses for adults.

The Arts Center also has half-day preschool and kindergarten classes. The curriculum allows students to experience open-ended, child-directed arts and play experiences that nurture creative thinking, decision-making, and imagination to establish a solid educational foundation.

If cost is a concern, the Arts Center has a Financial Aid Fund to ensure everyone interested can participate in classes.

For the fall class schedule, a list of upcoming exhibits and performances, and additional information on the Lawrence Arts Center, go to LawrenceArtsCenter.org

TASTE OF Lawrence 2024

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH

ENJOY SAMPLES FROM LOCAL EATERIES WHILE SUPPORTING CITY EDUCATORS

Dig out your 1980s style! On September 19th, the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to help celebrate 40 years of the Taste of Lawrence while also honoring the Lawrence Schools Foundation turning 40 next year. Besides delicious food and beverages, the hope is attendees will come in their best 80s fashion.

Taste of Lawrence is one of the most popular events in the city, with approximately 1,200 people attending. It is held annually to honor local educators and showcase some of our community’s finest food and beverage establishments. Always a great time, the event is aptly named as those in attendance are truly offered a  taste of the Lawrence community.

TASTE OF LAWRENCE 2024

Thursday, September 19, 2024 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT

This event is drop in style so come and go as you please!

Location: Lied Center of Kansas 1600 Stewart Drive

Online registration closes Tuesday, September 17, at 5 pm. Admission tickets may be available to purchase (cash preferred, credit preferred, or check) at the event’s main entrance.

$10 Teachers/Educators

$20 non-educators

This event will occur rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, it will be hosted inside the Lied Center. It will not reschedule this event and refunds are not available.

The event is for attendees 21 years of age and older.

Pets and animals are not allowed.

For more details, go to LawrenceChamber.com.

TASTE OF LAWRENCE IS ONE OF THE MOST popular EVENTS IN THE city , WITH APPROXIMATELY 1,200 PEOPLE attending .

the family portrait

PHOTOGRAPHER KRISTOL KUMAR SHARES ADVISE TO MAKE THE EXPERIENCE GO SMOOTHLY

for that Christmas card photo or a family portrait to give as a gift.

Then I start looking at locations. If it’s fall, there are some really great colors around the Lawrence area, like the Baker Wetlands or Clinton Lake. Do they want a country vibe versus a more urban setting? Are they more interested in the urban background and architecture of downtown Lawrence or the natural settings?

A shoot at home is going to be a much more relaxed situation. If your toddler spills something on their clothing, they can change it.

While most people easily document their family through photos on their cell phones, an actual portrait done by a professional is often displayed and cherished for generations. Photographer Kristol Kumar, whose work you see frequently in Lawrence City Lifestyle (including this month’s cover), has worked with numerous families over the past 15 years on their portraits. We asked her for some advice for getting the perfect shot.

LCL: WHEN PLANNING A FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT, HOW DO YOU TELL THEM TO PREPARE?

Kumar: Usually, it starts with the basics based on how many people, the ages of your children, and what date we are looking at. Are we looking at spring, summer, fall, winter? Most of my family portraits happen in the fall because people are looking

LCL: WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND REGARDING HOW EVERYONE DRESSES FOR THE PHOTO?

Kumar: I usually try to steer away from everybody wearing the same color because it’s a very dated look. It’s alright to pick three or four colors that go together. Or, what is the younger child wearing? Sometimes, it’s easier to pull colors from the child’s outfit that they like wearing to match mom and dad’s outfits versus getting a child to wear something they don’t want to wear.

LCL: SO, IF A LITTLE GIRL WANTS TO DRESS UP IN A PRINCESS DRESS, LET HER?

Kumar: Right! And if the dress is yellow, go with colors like yellow and blue.

LCL: WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU HAVE A TODDLER MELTDOWN OR A TEEN WHO DOESN’T WANT TO SMILE?

Kumar: Give it time. The worst thing that will kill a photo shoot is rushing and trying to stress for that perfect shot. Instead, I try to remember we’re out in a location, and we’re out there to have fun. Hang out with the family. As the photographer, I’m not forcing the family to work quickly, but I’m working quickly, looking for shots as they happen. I’m always looking for those moments in between when people are just being a family and having fun. Sometimes, a great shot is not achieved when everybody looks at the camera and smiles perfectly.

I have done photo shoots where the toddler has a full-on meltdown. But when I deliver the photos, you can’t even tell. There are moments when a kid is going to calm down. Let’s change location, and usually, at that point, if you’re giving the child time to calm down and you have some snacks on hand, most kids will calm down. The moment they calm down, I’m ready with my camera.

LCL: WHAT ABOUT IF THEY WANT TO INCLUDE THEIR PET?

Kumar: Pets are always welcome! Just because you bring your pet doesn’t mean they must be in every shot. And a pet will time out as well, just like a toddler. They’re going to be all over. So, plan to have them in some photos and some without.

LCL: WHAT IS A PHOTO SHOOT LIKE WITH YOU?

Kumar: In the first 15 to 20 minutes, I focus on the tempo of the family. How’s everybody doing? And I spend a little bit of time with them, getting to know them. What’s your name? This is how my camera works. Just earning the trust of the family is important. Not just jumping out of a car and rushing into photos.

LCL: ANY OTHER ADVICE?

Kumar: Make sure everyone is feeling well. Never be afraid to reschedule a photo shoot if someone gets sick. It happens. Also, plan for a good time and preplan for things like when nap times are, when you need to leave for the photo shoot, and when everyone has eaten. Plan for when everyone will be at their best. And trust the photographer. Especially with younger families, instead of focusing on looking at the camera, be in the right mindset of we’re going to have fun and just embrace a little bit of the chaos that might come. If you’re embracing the moment, it will produce a better photo versus being stressed out and very concerned about that perfect shot. Trust the photographer to get the shot.

Kumar has photographed people and events for the past 15 years. She has an undergraduate degree in photography and a master's degree in visual communication. Besides taking photos, she also teaches art.

To learn more about Kumar and schedule a photo session, go to KristolKumar.com.

CREATE UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS AT THE ELDRIDGE

Nestled in the dynamic heart of Downtown Lawrence, The Eldridge offers your event attendees an unforgettable fusion of professionalism, comfort, and memorable experiences. For your greatest day, step into a world of endless possibilities as you create the wedding or reception of your dreams with the help of our dedicated staff.

A Healthy (And Tasty) Lunchbox

The Plan

Sit down with the kids and come up with a list of healthy options. Make categories such as sandwiches, fruits and veggies, snacks, and desserts. Then they can pick from the list each day.

Yellow-Box Alternative

If the kids love pre-packaged lunch packs, try making healthier versions at home. Pick up containers with individual compartments and fill them with squares of lean meat, cheese, and whole-grain crackers.

Pair your favorite nut butter with banana, pineapple slices, apple butter, raisins, pear slices, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut instead.  Or mix grated fruit and veg into softened cream cheese. Use a wrap instead of bread!

Beverages

Plain and infused water, as well as dairyor plant-based milks, are the best.

Sandwiches Snacks

Kids can also make their own snack bags. Have them fill a bag with nuts, dried fruit, popcorn, pretzels, and healthy cereals. Then, they can pick a treat such as marshmallows, cheese crackers, or candy-coated chocolates.

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

DOG

SOCIALIZING

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99% working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

RETIREMENT PLANNING