Dog walking is a healthy, daily ritual with physical and mental benefits. However, what’s good for a full-grown German Shepherd isn’t necessarily ideal for a Pomeranian or a puppy. We spoke with American Kennel Club spokeswoman and pet advice columnist Lisa Peterson about dog- and puppy-walking in the city, at the beach and why age actually matters.

We kick off the New Year with a can-do attitude! The winter/spring issue is devoted entirely to Do-It-Yourself pet care – just the thing for pet parents who’ve pondered letting the pros handle it or taking matters into their own capable hands. Writer Steve Lowery turns to the experts to learn how to properly implement tasks such as dog baths, maintaining your carpet and furniture upholstery after a pet “accident” and even how to concoct a delicious homemade treat – all without turning your home upside-down.

Before you and your family go on your merrymaking way, remember that yuletide celebrations bring with them potential hazards to your pet. Luckily, you won’t have to worry as long as you keep the following tips in mind.

The growing pet industry, along with its luxury and holistic product niches, is an indication of how much we dote on our furry children. Pet expert Arden Moore has a friendly reminder for pet parents who love to spoil.

It seemed only natural that Drew Grendell’s Eagle Scout project would lead him back to German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. After all, his family already has several ties with the rescue group. What did the 17-year-old give back? A good night’s sleep for the rescue’s resident adoptees.

The cajoling, the firm commands to “Sit!” and the toy-waggling – anything to make your pet hold that pose while you maneuver your camera to capture the perfect shot! If you’re a pet owner, you know how challenging it can be to get a beloved pet to sit still when their mind is on anything but obliging you. We got some tips for the photographically inclined from Chicago-based photographer David Sutton, the creative mind behind the annual Dog Days calendar.

Oh, the places you and your dog can go! Tired of the same ol’ trail, or looking to get away for the afternoon? Put away that map and try ours! We’re sharing one of our favorite finds with you yet – Southern California’s dog-friendliest beaches, parks and trails. Perfect for these dog days of summer and great year-round, the Petsguide Dog-Friendly Map also includes must-know details such as hours, leash rules, hiking levels for man and pooch, and more.

This weekend, paws and feet will pound pavement for a good (and very human) cause – Paws For Cause’s 2nd Annual 5K, 5K Dog Run/Walk and 1K Kids Fun Run. The event will benefit His Chaplain For You, one of the nonprofit’s programs providing emotional and spiritual support for people undergoing hardship and personal tragedies, from abuse and addiction, to illness, disaster survival and even death.

There’s no need to fret – not when the new Summer/Fall 2009 Petsguide is here! This issue is devoted to travel, be it by car or plane. We talked with pet experts to find what it takes to prepare pets for a trip, and even how to find a good pet-sitter match should Fido or Fifi stay home while you are gone. You’ll also find tips throughout the magazine, from helpful travel accessories to must-know information you should have on hand once you leave the door.

Spring is here! As we embark on springtime projects – gardening, cleaning, you name it! – we have to remember to safeguard our pets against plants that are benign to humans, but potentially dangerous to animals.

April, coincidentally, is National Pet First-Aid Awareness Month. In the spirit of keeping our furry, four-legged pals happy and safe to enjoy spring, here are some helpful factoids to keep in mind, courtesy of the ASPCA: