by Heidi Clayton | Jun 11, 2026 | South Jersey, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Editorial, Pets
During the critical socialization period, which occurs during the first 14 weeks of a puppy’s life, every puppy goes through a fear period. This fear period occurs in most cases between eight and 11 weeks. A brave, happy puppy will suddenly, without warning or having...
by Heidi Clayton | Jun 4, 2026 | Atlantic County, Cape May County, Editorial, Pets, South Jersey
When it comes to puppies, you have a very small window in which they need to be exposed to the world and learn about interactions with other dogs that are not their littermates. The critical socialization period in all puppies, regardless of breed, ends about week 14...
by Heidi Clayton | May 28, 2026 | Features, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Pets, South Jersey
Starting leash-walking training with your puppy early will help you manage one of the biggest complaints I receive about walking: pulling. Training a puppy to walk nicely on a leash is like a puzzle where you can only add one piece at a time, so breaking down the...
by Heidi Clayton | May 21, 2026 | Atlantic County, Cape May County, Editorial, Pets, South Jersey
When teaching a dog or puppy to walk nicely, many believe that purchasing a harness will give them either more control or will stop the pulling altogether. However, neither thought is exactly true. It’s important to know that there is only one type of harness that is...
by Sarah Fertsch | May 14, 2026 | Features, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Pets, South Jersey
For many South Jersey residents and visitors, a trip to the shore isn’t complete without the whole family, including our four-legged companions. While many beaches restrict dogs during peak summer months, a growing number of destinations, attractions, and businesses...
