AJ'S Waggin' Train

08/04/2026

𝔸𝕦𝕘𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕀𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 ℙ𝕖𝕥 𝕀𝕞𝕞𝕦𝕟𝕚𝕫𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝔸𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

August is recognized as National Pet Immunization Awareness month, providing a great opportunity to review your pet's vaccination requirements. The effectiveness of pet immunizations in protecting the health of cats and dogs has been well established, contributing to longer, happier lives free from disease and illness. Therefore, it is crucial to reach out to your veterinarian during August and beyond to schedule a discussion about your pet's vaccination needs.

𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬
Puppies and kittens should receive their first vaccinations around eight weeks old, followed by booster shots until they are about 20 weeks old. For older dogs and cats with unclear vaccination history, it is recommended to follow the same schedule as for puppies and kittens. After the initial series of vaccinations, pets should be vaccinated every one to three years to maintain their immunity and protection.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐬
The process of pre-exposure immunization, utilizing vaccinations, shields pets from illnesses such as rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. By exposing your pet's immune system to a harmless form of a disease-causing agent, vaccinations aid in the development of cells that can combat actual diseases. The essential vaccinations provided by your veterinarian will help maintain your pet's well-being and enhance their ability to fight off illnesses. Depending on factors like age, weight, medical background, lifestyle, and exposure risk, your veterinarian will recommend the necessary vaccinations.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
The core canine immunizations include the following:
• Rabies
• Distemper
• Hepatitis
• Parvovirus
• Bordetella
• Lyme
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
The core feline immunizations include the following:
• Rabies
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis
• Calicivirus
• Panleukopenia
• FeLV Feline Leukemia virus
• Bordetella

𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Your pets may require extra protection from summer pests such as parasites, in addition to vaccinations. These parasites have the potential to transmit diseases, trigger infections, and harm your pet's blood and organs. It is advisable to consult your veterinarian to evaluate your pet's risk of parasite exposure and to obtain monthly preventive medication for:
• Heartworm
• Hookworms
• Roundworms
• Whipworms
• Tapeworms
• Fleas
• Ticks
• Mites

𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲
Although there is an initial cost associated with vaccines, the expenses of treating severe diseases are much higher. In some instances, treatment may be required throughout your pet's life, making vaccinations the more economical and secure option for preserving your pet's health and overall wellness.

Get proactive about your pets well-being and health by contacting your trusted veterinarian to discuss your pet’s next vaccinations today.

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07/28/2026

Please share and like my latest article. Thanks

Submission by Aaron Jones, AJ’s Waggin’ Train Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol and other ordinary household foods can make dogs seriously ill. Some may cause seizures, liver damage, kidney failure or death, while others can create choking hazards, intestinal blockages or severe digestive prob...

07/24/2026

On Wednesday Houston Latino family magazine honored me with the award for Best Dog Trainer in Houston. Receiving this award is an epic milestone in my career. It's also serves as proof that perseverance, morals, ethics, and dedication doesn't go unnoticed.

07/08/2026

Here's another article recently published. Please like and share.

Submission by Aaron Jones Looking for the best dog-friendly restaurants in Katy, Texas? Whether you’re enjoying breakfast after a morning walk, meeting friends for lunch, or relaxing over dinner on a beautiful Texas evening, you don’t always have to leave your four-legged family member at home. ...

07/03/2026

𝕁𝕦𝕝𝕪 𝕀𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 ℙ𝕖𝕥 ℍ𝕪𝕕𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝔸𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

National Pet Hydration Awareness Month is observed in July to help raise awareness about the importance of pet hydration. While humans have resorted to hourly reminders to keep up with their hydration needs throughout the day, our pets rely on us to keep their water bowl full so they can maintain a well hydrated body. The blazing sun in July requires us to amp hydration not only for ourselves, but also for our pets as well. Pet dehydration can quickly take a turn for the worse. Yet, there aren’t a lot of commercials, wellness gurus, or social media stars reminding us about this.

There’s no better way to fight back the blazing hot sun in July than by keeping your pets hydrated. Pet dehydration is a highly overlooked yet critical area that concerns your pet’s general health and well-being. The human body is 60% water, but pets’ bodies are 80% water, and abruption in consistent replenishment can seriously limit their mobility and strength. A severe case of chronic dehydration can turn fatal as well.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐚 𝐝𝐨𝐠 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐝𝐚𝐲?
How much water should a dog drink each day?
Ideally, a dog needs an ounce of water for every pound it weighs. For example, a 16-pound dog would require 16 ounces of water per day.

𝟏. 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐰𝐥 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐝𝐚𝐲
We understand that being a pet parent can be a ton of responsibility. And with the everyday juggle, essential things such as pet hydration are bound to slip out of your list of priorities. This July, make it a habit to keep your dog’s water bowl full, regardless of the residue. Additionally, schedule regular cleaning and maintenance of the dish so that it’s hygienic and safe.

𝟐. 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐦
If consistent alarms have helped you in being consistent with daily water intake in the last couple of months, I suggest you try the same thing for your fur baby(s). Keep daily tabs on your pet's water intake and set reminders to replenish their supply at regular intervals of the day.

𝟑. 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐦𝐬
There are a lot of symptoms of dehydration, but the most apparent one manifests in the mouth. Dry and sticky gums are the most noticeable symptoms of dehydration. Canines, felines, and almost all other pets are constantly salivating, and only stop when they physically can’t. Dry and unpaired gums are a sign of dehydration.

𝟓 𝐒𝐘𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐎𝐌𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐄𝐇𝐘𝐃𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐄𝐓𝐒

𝟏. 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬
Dehydration dulls the digestive system, resulting in loss of appetite.

𝟐. 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
A lack of water in the system drains the energy and results in vicarious panting, even after limited activity.

𝟑. 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐎𝐟 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲
The skin and fur lose their shine and elasticity due to a lack of hydration.

𝟒. 𝐃𝐫𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐬𝐞 & 𝐆𝐮𝐦𝐬
Dehydration deprives pets of their ability to constantly salivate.

𝟓. 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐲
Dehydration can lead to a pathological state of unresponsiveness and sleepiness.

If you'd like to receive more tips about training, safety, & more, come join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training group page.

06/26/2026

4th of July is upon us and the safety of your pups is important. I was asked to revised an article I wrote 4 years ago. It has been republished. Please like and share.

https://katychristianmagazine.com/2026/06/25/how-to-keep-your-dog-safe-and-calm-during-fourth-of-july-fireworks/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSqtLZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeYMnWY8DBDtVFP63yRVvJmRQyeRgrrHCvXQ57-rOGyW7__jvroo-Yyz8t_EY_aem_fQG5rHhnM12o8wO3j4dRHA

Submission by Aaron Jones, owner and certified dog trainer, AJ’s Waggin’ Train Did you know that more dogs go missing on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year? Loud fireworks can send even well-trained dogs running in fear. With America celebrating its 250th birthday this Independ...

06/20/2026

𝔻𝕠𝕘 𝔽𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕝𝕪 𝔻𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕀𝕟 𝕂𝕒𝕥𝕪

If you're grabbing brunch or meeting friends for dinner, you don't always have to leave your pup at home. The number of dog friendly restaurants and cafes in Katy continues to grow. Keep in mind that due to health regulations, most only allow them in their outdoor seating areas unless they’re a service dog. But first, I want to give some tips and cover some important things when it comes to dining out with your pup.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝗗𝗼𝗴-𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆?
There's a difference between a restaurant that just allows dogs and one that genuinely welcomes them. The best dog-friendly spots offer water bowls, shaded patio seating, and staff who greet your dog by name.

𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀’ 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
Dogs that do well at restaurants are usually dogs that have practice being calm in stimulating environments. Regular socialization, whether through dog parks, walks in busy areas, or structured dog daycare can help build the confidence dogs need to handle dining.

𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗴
Even at dog-friendly restaurants, a little preparation can make the experience better for everyone, your dog, other guests, and the staff.
• 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗼𝗴 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗼: A tired dog is a well-behaved restaurant companion. A 20-minute walk or play session before heading out makes a big difference.
• 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗼𝘄𝗹: Not all restaurants have water stations. A collapsible bowl takes up no space and keeps your dog hydrated.
• 𝗚𝗼 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳𝗳-𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: Lunch on a weekday or early dinner is calmer than Friday night prime time. Less noise and fewer distractions will help your dog stay relaxed.
• 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗼𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗵: Even friendly dogs should stay close to your table. Retractable leashes are a trip hazard.
• 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗼𝗴'𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘀: If your dog barks at strangers, lunges at other dogs, or can't settle in busy environments, a restaurant outing might not be the best fit yet.

So, if you’re looking for places to dine out with your dog, here are some local restaurants in Katy that welcome well-behaved pups:

9er’s Grill 23225 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
Ambriza 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
Bar Louie – Katy 2707 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
Boomer Jack’s Grill 1110 Grand W Blvd, Katy, TX 77449
Chili's 21865 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77450
Crust Pizza Co. Cinco Ranch 9920 Gaston Rd, Katy, TX 77494
Dish Society 2643 Commercial Center Blvd b350, Katy, TX 77494
First Watch 23659 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77494
Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers 24433 Interstate 10 Frontage Rd #100, Katy, TX 77494
Gelato & Co. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd E100, Katy, TX 77494
Grimaldi's Pizzaria 2643 Commercial Center Blvd Ste C390, Katy, TX 77494
Hasta La Pasta 1450 Grand Pkwy e, Katy, TX 77494
Katy Crossing Icehouse 5733 2nd St, Katy, TX 77493
La Madeleine 23322 Mercantile Pkwy, Katy, TX 77449
Local Table 24033 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
Mia's Table 23235 Kingsplace Dr, Katy, TX 77494
Midway BBQ 6025 Hwy Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
No Label Brewing Co. 5351 1st St, Katy, TX 77493
Old Katy Patio 1306 Avenue A, Katy, TX 77493
Pucci Café 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Suite N200, Katy, TX 77494
Rudy's "Country Store" & Bar-B-Q 21799 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77450
Snappy's Café & Grill 5803 Hwy Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
Snooze A.M. Eatery 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd K100, Katy, TX 77494
Sonoma W**e Bar 9920 Gaston Rd Ste 130, Katy, TX 77494
Sweet Paris 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste S120, Katy, TX 77494
Texas Borders
• Pin Oak 1251 Pin Oak Rd #141, Katy, TX 77494
• Cane Island 2100 Cane Island Pkwy C, Katy, TX 77493
The Rouxpour 2643 Commercial Center Blvd Ste A300, Katy, TX 77494
The Union Kitchen 9920 Gaston Rd, Katy, TX 77494
Tobiuo Sushi and Bar 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste H130, Katy, TX 77494
Torchy’s Tacos 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd # N-100, Katy, TX 77494
Wh***ey Cake Kitchen & Bar 23139 Grand Cir Blvd, Katy, TX 77449

06/04/2026

𝕁𝕦𝕟𝕖 𝕀𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕄𝕚𝕔𝕣𝕠𝕔𝕙𝕚𝕡𝕡𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

National Microchip Month in June is all about pets — and ensuring they are safely implanted with a little chip so they can be traced if they go missing. Everyone knows how easy it can be to lose track of your pet, even for a second. This month aims to reduce pet owners’ stress and worry if their pets go missing by encouraging microchipping. Events in this month center around highlighting the importance of microchipping and how it can help.

1 in 3 pets go missing each year. Without ID, 90% of those lost pets don't come home. We don't want any of our pet owners to deal with losing a beloved pet, which is why we're raising awareness! If something were to happen to your pet, this is the easiest way to help them find their way home.

Millions of animals across the United States end up in shelters every year. Sadly, very few pet owners bother looking for or reclaiming their lost pets from such shelters. If you are afraid of losing your pet, you should consider having a microchip implanted to increase the chances of finding it.

It is easy to lose track of your pet. Fortunately, a microchip can make finding your animal friend much easier. This is the reason for this microchip awareness month. Responsible pet owners know that June is National Microchip Month. A microchip can save the life of your pet and reunite you with your lost pet.

Implanting microchips in pets is about more than just reuniting them with their owners. It is also vital when it comes to the medical needs and safety of pets. Furthermore, the process of implanting the chip is quick and pain-free for your furry friend. The chip goes under your pet’s skin. It contains the contact information and any other information you want to put in it, either for identification and/or medical purposes.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐩?
A microchip is a small, electronic RFID chip enclosed in a glass cylinder that's about the same size as a grain of rice. The microchip doesn't have a battery--in fact, it's activated by a scanner that is passed over the area, and the radio waves sent out by the scanner activate the chip. The chip transmits the ID number to the scanner, which in turn displays the number on the screen. Your pet's details are registered for life on a National Pet Identification database, making it possible for veterinary hospitals or shelters around the country to aid in the search.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐓𝐨 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡
𝟭. 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝘁
Protect your pet, and yourself, by getting them chipped. Many veterinarians and animal shelters celebrate this day by offering discounts and/or free microchipping sessions to raise awareness of this event. Check out what offers are available around you and get chipping.

𝟮. 𝗘𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱
Microchips — like all other techs — need regular checks to ensure they work like new devices. Make sure the device is still in place, is working correctly, and holds you and your pet’s updated information. You can ask your veterinarian to scan the microchip to ensure proper functioning regularly.

𝟯. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴
Encourage others to protect their pets too. Tell all the pet owners you know about your positive experience with microchipping and raise awareness about this month.

If you'd like more tips on training, safety, and more come join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training.