Bone Worx, LLC

08/25/2025

Who Knows Thier Dog Walking Etiquette?

Every walk with your drg brings new sights, sniffs, and—inevitably—chances to meet other canine companions. But what’s really the best way to approach another dog and owner on the path ahead? Let’s break down your options for a safer, more comfortable walk for everyone involved.

When another dog and their human are heading your way, you:

A: You continue on the same path, letting your dog decide if they want to greet or just overtake.

B: You pause at a safe distance and call out, “Is your dog friendly?” If the answer is yes, you ask if your dog can say hi—otherwise, you create space and continue.

C: You curve away from the path, or even cross the street, to provide ample space for both dogs.

Why Your Choice Matters

Choosing the right approach isn’t just about manners—it’s about safety and enjoyment for both dogs and humans. Not every dog is eager to socialize, and some may be nervous or reactive. Reading the situation and respecting space can prevent unwanted conflicts and ensure happy tails all around

08/21/2025

Our area has changed rapidly—there are more police, and more questionable activity is occurring.

If you're a dog owner like me, you know how important it is to keep a sharp eye on your dog during walks.

Dogs sniff and sample things on the ground, and those things could contain harmful substances—like vomit from someone using drugs, spilled pills, or a dropped ma*****na bud. If your dog consumes them, it could be dangerous and have devastating effects.

Even if drugs aren't involved, any vomit can bring bacteria, parasites, or toxins. The results? Vomiting, diarrhea, or worse.

Here's how you can keep your dog safe:

Stay vigilant: Watch your dog closely, especially in sketchy areas.

Train yourself to say "LEAVE IT!": This simple command can be a lifesaver.

Choose your route: Avoid littered or high-risk spots, especially in warm weather.

Use a short leash: More control means less trouble.

Bring distractions: Treats or toys help keep your dog's nose up.

If your dog eats something suspicious:

Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately.

Be specific: Know what/when/where it happened.

DO NOT induce vomiting unless told by a vet.

I now have two clients who ended up taking their dog to the vet because of this.

Unfortunately, some people are more interested in their phones, checking Facebook, or having loud conversations through their earbuds with their Aunt Rita in New Jersey. For them, it's more of a reactive situation versus being proactive. Staying alert and proactive can make all the difference.

Let's keep our dogs (and each other) safe!

If you have questions or want to share tips, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's look out for each other.

I'm also including a list of ER recommendations in the area. It's great to have it printed out and on your fridge, just in case.

Wag on, folks!

Emergency Veterinarian

Bridgetown Veterinary Emergency
15333 SW Sequoia Pkwy #100
Portland, OR 97224
503.489.9535

Dove Lewis
1945 NW Pettygrove St.
Portland, OR 97209
503.228.7281

Emergency Veterinary of Tualatin
8250 SW Tonka St.
Tualatin, OR 97062
503.691.7922

Tanasbourne Vet
17400 NW Corridor Ct.
Beaverton, OR 97006
503.629.5800

Cascade Veterinary Referral Center (Emergency)
11140 SW 68th Pkwy
Tigard, OR 97223
503.684.1800

ASPCA Animal Poision Control
888.426.4435

08/21/2025

Allowing new friends into your life is worth it!

08/11/2025

I love receiving updates from my clients as they work on their homework.
Tell me everything!
Share your wins, your struggles, even your epic fails.

08/10/2025

08/07/2025

I’ll be honest: writing this brings a lump to my throat. If you’ve ever loved, laughed with, and lost a four-legged family member, you know the ache that lingers. Some days, it feels like you’re walking through a memory—and sometimes, all it takes is a small gesture to ease the hurt.

Recently, Beacon Hill Designs created a beautiful memorial plaque in honor of our sweet Stella. Every time I pass by it, I’m whisked back to those silly, sweet moments—her playful antics, her gentle snuggles, the way she seemed to read my mind. For a few seconds, the pain softens, replaced by a bittersweet joy and gratitude for all those memories.

If you’re missing a furry companion, I want you to know: you’re not alone. And if you ever decide to honor their memory in a special way, I can’t recommend Beacon Hill Designs enough. Their care, attention to detail, and genuine empathy shine through in every piece they create. Stella’s plaque is absolutely beautiful—a true tribute to her spirit.

Thank you, Beacon Hill Designs, from the bottom of our hearts.

If you’re considering a memorial for your own cherished pet, take a look at what Beacon Hill Designs can do. You—and your furry family member—deserve something truly special.

See Their Work & Find Comfort ➔ Beacon Hill Designs

08/01/2025

When I Judged That Dog Owner… Then Became One

Hi Jennifer,

I used to think I had the perfect dog. She loved everything—people, noise, chaos—and stayed calm no matter what.

My husband and I are always walking the Powerline Trail, we have passed dogs who barked, growl and lunge, I would step back, stare, judge and comment under my breath, “Why can’t you control your dog?” I used to think, if your dog could not behave like a “normal dog,” then you should not be out on a trail like this. I used to think that owners of “aggressive dogs” had no idea what they were doing and should not own a dog.

In October 2024 we lost our sweet girl, Mazy.

In January 2025 we rescued a 4-year-old lab mix, named Benny, from a local shelter, here in Portland. Within the first month of bringing home Benny, we had a stark realization that this was not a “normal dog.” It hit me like a freight train. I have an “aggressive” dog…. Feeling as if a freight train was STILL running me over, suddenly, my thoughts were inundated with my feelings, comments, and evil stares from the past and I was horrified.

Now I cross the street, I avoid eye contact, and I feel the shame.

I desperately need your help!

Mindy

Before I comment on the letter above, please note I have talked to Mindy, and she gave me permission to post this response and change her name.

Dear Mindy,

Let me be clear. There are NO normal dogs. There are NO bad dogs.

We have all been there—trying to keep our dog calm while another dog barks or is lunging nearby.

It is easy to judge and say to yourself, “Well, my dog isn’t the problem.” But here is the catch: your calm dog might be that dog someday too!

Not every calm dog is truly calm. Some are managing—thanks to months of careful, loving training. And reactive dogs? They are not bad. They are communicating their need for space and safety.

A reactive dog may have a “comfort bubble” that stretches one hundred yards. Cross it, and you could undo the progress made with love and patience.

Even well-trained dogs can “lose it” when their emotional brain takes over. Fear shuts down their thinking brain, making it impossible to follow commands or stay calm.

And you, the reactive dog owner? You are doing more than most people realize—constantly planning walks, avoiding triggers, and staying alert. That is not a simple stroll. That is love in action.

We are all here because we care about animals. How we as individuals interact and communicate with other humans and their dog(s), needs some work. Let us treat each other with respect and the animals we love with the same care.

Sadly, this “bad dog” labeling will never stop. There are too many people to educate in this world and sadly, some dog owners will not educate themselves.

So, the cycle continues.

We all want to be the “friendly dog person.” But when it comes to reactive dogs, kindness often means keeping your distance.

How You Can Help (Even from Afar)

1. Give space when you see a dog reacting or an owner waving you off.
2. Do not assume your “friendly dog” is welcome.
3. Respect boundaries even if a dog looks calm.
4. Talk thoughtfully to families with reactive dogs..
5. Stay calm and respectful.
6. Be firm with others who try to approach.
7. Prepare guests ahead of visits
8. Reactive dogs are not bad dogs. They are just asking for space—and your understanding makes all the difference.

If you see someone who is working with their dog, give them a thumbs up, letting them know they're doing a great job. That encouragement goes a long way.

08/01/2025

Every visit with June Bug and Rex is fun—that's how it should be! Just be careful taking off your shoes because June will take them out back and hide them. 🤣

07/14/2025

Since the world feels like it’s on fire, it’s a great time to make your best friend a tasty summer treat.

Here's why homemade ice cream for dogs is a good idea and some general tips:

1. You control the ingredients:

This is crucial because many human ice cream ingredients, like sugar, dairy (for lactose-intolerant dogs), and artificial sweeteners like xylitol, can be harmful to dogs.

2. Easy to make:

Most recipes are quite simple, often involving blending a few ingredients and freezing them.

3. Healthy alternatives:

You can use dog-friendly ingredients such as plain Greek yogurt (ensure no added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol), bananas, peanut butter (check for xylitol), pumpkin puree, berries, and even cooked chicken or low-sodium chicken broth.

4. Customizable:

You can tailor the ingredients to your dog's preferences and any dietary restrictions.

5. Budget-friendly:

Homemade treats can be more economical than store-bought dog ice cream.

So grab some ingredients and get busy!