Maine Pets

By most accounts, the life of a small dog is a good one. You are rarely want for affection, and being a little pup can also afford you certain cozy luxuries - couch and bed space are easy to come by for someone who weighs a mere 10 pounds. There is one downside for small dogs though, particularly here in Maine: the long, frigid winters.

Dogs need exercise. Dogs love exercise. According to the American Humane Society dogs should go for at least one walk outside their yard each day. There are numerous benefits from these daily treks, including building strength, burning calories and breathing fresh air. Walks also improve communication and create a stronger bond between dog and owner and appease the frustration of a homebound (read: bored) dog. Dogs should have the opportunity meet new people (and dogs) and see and smell things beyond their normal surroundings. When denied these opportunities dog can become lethargic and destructive in their home and experience multiple heath problems like weight gain and poor joints.

My Italian Greyhound, Pal, came into my life in May of 2007. We enjoyed a happy summer with many trips to dog parks, islands and my family's camp. Pal and my morning person of a boyfriend would walk each morning while I was still hiding under the covers. In the evenings Pal and I would "hit" every telephone poll and fire hydrant in Portland's West End. Pal would come home hungry and tired and seemingly content.

But then came November.

Even decked out and a wool sweater, a walk was simply no longer an option. But with a little ingenuity and enthusiasm you can help your dog survive ­ and even thrive ­ in this season of snow and ice (and hail and slush). Here are some suggestions to keep your pup up and running until the warmer days of dog runs and beach walks:

Dinky Dogs. In addition to being a cool sounding doggie day care for dinky dogs only, the owner hosts "Mini Mutt Mingle Mondays" on the second Monday of each month. For one night, small dogs can run around as a pack, perform for treats and play fetch in a big open house.

Doggie Errands: Local pet boutiques such as Planet Dog and Fetch as well as larger mall area stores Petco and Pet Quarters allow your four legged friends to help you shop. Not only can you take care of errands like "buy dog food", your dog can do laps around the store and socialize with other "shoppers".

Indoor Racing: Gather your dog at one end of your house or apartment. Have him to sit for a treat then immediately race him to the other end of your dwelling. Once at the end of the track repeat the sit/treat routine and tear off back to your starting point. Repeat for as long as you both have the energy. Special note to those of you in an apartment ­ if people live below you, it would be neighborly to wait until they are out to do this.

Basic Obedience and Training: Practicing tricks for even 15 minutes a day will stimulate your dog's mind. Libraries and bookstores have stacks of books such as 101 Dog Tricks that features skills such as "jump into my arms".

Follow the Dot: Many pet supply stores sell a special laser pointer for dogs which you can aim on your walls and floors. Many dogs will aggressively chase the colored light. Plenty of burnt energy for them and free comical entertainment for you.

Puzzles: Dogs love a challenge, especially one that requires both a mental and physical effort. Make a "treat puzzle" by inserting kibble or dog biscuits into a plastic water bottle. Dogs will roll, shake and bounce the bottle to release the sweet smelling morsels. Creative and ambitious dog owners might even consider making a dog-safe piñata to celebrate the end to a well behaved winter.

How do you keep your dog busy in the winter? Share your own ideas here.