18 GoodLifeFamilyMag.com JULY | AUGUST 2018 by Cooper the Dog (Transcribed by Kristin Cicciarelli | Cooper's Mom) BONE APPETIT! DOGGIE-FRIENDLY DINING: REMINDERS FOR MY HUMAN For a fur baby like me, chilling on a shady patio with other (ahem!) well-behaved four-footers is truly the icing on the dog biscuit. I love going for car rides (unless, of course, it’s something vet- related), and so long as I’m with my human, I'm up for just about anything: hiking on winding trails, dog park excursions and especially visiting dog-friendly restaurants because, well, they involve food smells. I do have a few simple requests when it comes to doggie-friendly dining, so, human—please take note: • No matter what time of year, the Texas sun is scorching, and when you’re wearing a full-body fur coat, well, it’s even worse. I may not need sunscreen but shade is essential. Please nab a table with a big umbrella, or at the very least, let me hang out under your chair or table where it’s cooler. • Remember to bring my portable water bowl. Staying well-hydrated is not only important for me, but it will also help reduce my drooling issue on your expensive shoes. • Even though I, myself, am a prince without a leash, sometimes those other dogs aren't so mannerly. So, to protect me from them, keep me on a leash and give me a little slack. I promise you won't regret it. • Okay, okay—sometimes, my attention wanders (look, a squirrel!), so I'd appreciate if you'd bring something to keep me occupied—a chew toy, rawhide bone, and/or multiple treats that will keep me interested in staying by your side and also cut down on my tendency to beg.