That autumn chill is definitely in the air! As much as I love summer, the cool, crisp mornings and charging of the furnace, somehow seems a welcome change. My most favorite part of the Fall is the extension of bedtime (my early bird parents are a tad slower hitting the now cool morning floor) but my second favorite part is roaring through the newly fallen leaves on the ground. My protégée W and I shift into turbo mode and fly around the yard astounding all those who stand to admire our sharp turns and high speed chase maneuvering. Unfortunately, fall ground is also quite cool at times and I don’t know if you have noticed, but Wendel and I have a very short space between our underbellies and that ground. Why do you think we loathe snow so much!? Can you imagine dragging your privates through an ice-cold snow bank?! But I digress, my point was that warmer clothing is most appropriate at this time of year.

Homemade sweaters are truly the bomb when it comes to staying warm, and although my mother is knit-challenged, my good friend Bill’s mom is a true expert. So, I asked her, Linda is her name, if she would share some tips for knitting for your hound as well as some resources if you would like to pursue this worthy craft. The Art of Yarn on Pandosy Street offers knitting lessons to those of you ready to pick up a pair of needles for the winter months. The fall classes have begun but winter schedules should be out soon. Or, for those of you who are somewhat knit savvy, can make an appointment on Wednesdays for: “The Doctor is In”. From 12:30pm by appointment only knitters in trouble can have a one on one appt with one of their experts. $15.00 for ½ hour private or semi private session. They are located at 3003 Pandosy Street, 250 717 3247 or www.artofyarn.com

Auntie Linda’s Tips:

1. Use soft wool - nothing scratchy

2. Machine washable is best as sometimes they hit the sweater when going potty

3.  A snug fit is good so you don’t get any breezes - ribbing in the body is good for this

4. There are books just on dog sweaters available – check out the nearest bookstore or on line

5.  Embellishments are nice to show their personal style

6.  The Art of Yarn has a great selection of all types of wool and lots of fancies for trimming - also Michael’s and Wal-Mart

If you are not into knitting yourself, there are a ton of beautiful outfits that can be purchased. Check out Bone Appetit on Pandosy or Sophie’s Closet on Bernard or Posh Pup in the Orchard Park Mall. If you are in Vancouver or want to order online check out www.barkingbabies.com.

Happy Knitting all!