Jeepers, Creepers, Where'd You Get Those Sneakers?

As if a service dog doesn't generate enough attention, Murphy has recently begun sporting dog boots. Common among service dogs but not dogs in general, I'm often asked about them.

Why? Have you tried walking across asphalt in July in Kentucky? I dare you to do it barefoot! It can cause blisters on dog pads.

Where? Ruffwear.com sells them as a set of four. Caution: Make sure the back feet are the same size as the front - they aren't always and you can buy them in pairs if necessary. If you are training a service dog, you can sign up for their pro account.

How? Don't get all excited when your box arrives, pop them on, and expect to go on a long walk. We trained a few weeks with rewards for just touching them with her paw and not chewing them. Then, we clicked and rewarded for putting one on with no walking. Then, she stood up on two and I threw treats continuously to make her forget them. By the time we put on all four, she didn't mind but her walk reminded me of the Ministry of Silly Walks.

"I can tell she doesn't like them!" said a judgmental bystander, arms crossed. Well, neither do horses like saddles right away. Again, take off your shoes and walk out to your car, THEN you can comment.

She now walks pretty well with them and only occasionally will, if bored, decide to chew on one. And, she does look rather cute.