[gemy]

I would like to add some more tips which I did not read on the attached good article.


a) alternate and try for quieter times to walk your dog - By the time your dog is in her first heat you should know your immediate walk area really well (unless you have just moved there). You will know high dog traffic times etc.


b) If you have a car - take some close trips to local parks - different times of days and familiarize yourself with that area and traffic patterns.


c) if possible get to *know* the neighbourhood dogs - just friendly knowing - breed of dog - name of dog usually gives you sex of dog - and for males it is pretty easy to see if they have been neutered.


d) Avoid walking your dog in the dark (if at all possible) you can not easily see who or what is coming your way until they are close.


e) Now is not the time to make new doggy friends-ort to go to your local pet store with your dog (not too fair to leave that smell around) even if when you visit there are no dogs present.


Finally - for me I would keep walks of shorter duration and more frequent and if you have a backyard - lots of play time in the backyard. Also avoid vet visits at this time if you can help it.


**On female personality changes**


Some females can get really very nasty when in heat, and particularly to male dogs who show too much interest - not to mention to bossy other females. And by nasty I mean snarling, snapping, and BITING.


On the other hand some may be more affectionate to male dogs, or just ignore them, or as your gal comes closer to standing heat may actually invite male attention.


Your first heat with your gal will let you know how her personality might change.


A not uncommon personality change is for the gal to get more clingy, or needy of attention from her humans. An excess of energy, and not easily settling down as well are common.


Chris Christensen makes a product called Miracle Air - and it does a good job to help to keep indoor heat odors down. Spray on bedding, crates, and the dog.