More and more people are traveling with their dogs these days.

It’s great for the dogs, who otherwise might be sent off to the kennel. But, it does mean more work for the adult trip planners who have to pack the family members’ bags as well as the dog’s travel bag.

A little planning before you and the dog leave home can go a long way in minimizing stress and insuring that you have the dog’s basic needs covered for the time you and the family are away from home.

Start by getting a travel bag for the dog. You want one that is big enough to hold the dog’s food and water bowls as well as the items needed to fill them.

There are a few basic items that should be included in your pet’s travel luggage. First, count the days you will be away and pack enough food to cover your dog. It is a good idea to include a little extra. You never know when something like foul weather may come up and delay your return home.

Lifesaving Tips from the Firemen’s Association of the State of NY…

With Memorial Day weekend right around the corner, many people will be hosting backyard barbecues. The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is reminding residents to follow important fire safety tips so that they can enjoy a safe summer season. 

“The outdoor cookout season will soon be in full swing.  Unfortunately, a barbecue grill could start a fire if certain safety rules are ignored,” said Firemen’s Association of the State of New York President David Jacobowitz.  “It’s important to position the grill far away from siding, deck railings, trees and other flammables. When gatherings involve children, it’s critical that a child-free zone of at least three feet is established around the grill.”

Pet Connection Programs Inc., a nonprofit maternity and special care animal shelter located in Marilla, has several community events planned throughout the month of June. The shelter has been placing animals into loving homes throughout Western New York since 1984.

Pet Connection’s sixth annual “Tails on the Trails” dog walk will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 4, at the Como Lake Park Casino in Lancaster. In addition to the dog walk, there will be contests, raffles, a basket auction, vendors and a cookout. Other activities and demonstrations include a “good citizen” dog test, pet blessing, pet psychic, pet first aid, dog agility and much more.