Outer/Inner Banks Paradise Photography: Lorri Lee Chambers: 2015

As I sit here with my Owl cup full of tea, this morning I can't help but want to head back to Merchants Mill Pond . You see this has been a dream of mine to go and take photos of Cypress in a swamp...so with my new love leading the way, we visited Merchant Mill Pond located here on the Inner Banks of North Carolina. I am fortunate that I now live near this beautiful place of Mother Nature's Artwork.

Located in Gatesville it is home to Bald Cypress, Beech Groves ...wildlife and has canoes for rental, and many trails. Look closely and you will see how all of the vegetation there works together, to create small intimate communities on the downed trees and the trunks all around.

I am hoping my photos will inspire you to fulfill your dreams to see amazing scenery , and get in touch with Nature in a very special way. I highly recommend to share it with someone you love.

Have a great day and embrace Nature today ...

Merchants Millpond State Park

176 Millpond Road

Gatesville, NC 27938

Phone252-357-1191

merchants.millpond@ncparks.gov

Latitude: 36.437105

Longitude: -76.701580

It is Summer again please read this so you can understand the logistics of taking your PUPS to the beaches.

One of the great things about the Outer Banks is the wide open beaches which can provide wonderful running space for Our Family pups and for some the water adds another fascinating element to it all.

Some love the water , the crash of the waves, the feeling of the cool water on their sometimes very warm fuzzy bodies...and then just like kids the sheer exhilarating moments of running in and out of the waves, kicking up sand...trying to save their ball or frisbee from escaping out to see...and finally...the laughter they see on their humans faces watching them have a rollicking good time...

There are some dogs who just don't like the water for whatever reasons , and their humans need to understand that ...eventually with time they may love it but at first it is new and foreign to them...so be kind and don't push it.

Safety rules for dogs at the Beach ...always keep them on a leash long or short...this prevents them from making other people uncomfortable as well as keeps them in hand. I saw one case a few years ago where a chocolate lab kept swimming out as far as he could...and his owner would swim out and retrieve him. Finally the dog swam out so far the owner couldn't reach him and the dog became tired...the frustrated Lifeguard who had been watching all of this and pointed out to the people about the leash laws , had to swim out and rescue the dog from drowning. Simple common sense....

Always have a bottle of fresh water with you , do not let your dog drink the salt water it will make him sick. and always clean up after your dogs.

I found this great piece by Cesar Milan so have included it here...click the link for other important info, while a bit long very important.

http://www.cesarsway.com/pet-travel/cesars-beach-tips

Know the local laws. Some beaches do not accept dogs. Others require that they be on a leash at all times. Find out before you head out.

Prepare. You may not be aware that, like humans, dogs need protection from the sun. Talk to your veterinarian about protective goggles and canine sunblock.
Be confident in your pack leadership. For a dog to get the full benefit of a beach visit, off-leash (where permitted) is ideal. But remember, the beach is full of interesting scents of the sea life there. This can send your dog into a very primal state. If you don't have your leadership skills down pat, you could lose your dog.
Protect your dog from fleas. This is not an issue most people associate with the beach, but sand fleas are prevalent in some areas. Be aware that a wet flea collar is ineffective and can also irritate your dog's skin. Consult your veterinarian to find the best solution.
Let your dog dig! This is the perfect spot to let your dog try to make that tunnel to China he's been dreaming of.
Check conditions. Sea lice, jellyfish, undercurrents, and rip tides all pose just as much of a threat to dogs as they do to humans. Before you let your dog roam, verify with a lifeguard that the environment is safe.
Be aware of your dog's physical and emotional state. A trip to the beach isn't the time to punch out. Your dog may be having so much fun that he looses track of how tired, hot, or thirsty he is. It is up to you to watch for signs of dehydration or over-exhaustion. Sand and heat can make a normal exercise routine more strenuous. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, call your dog back to rest in a shady spot.
Be respectful of other visitors. Whether canine or human, other visitors to the beach may not appreciate your dog's company. Make sure to keep your dog in check.
Be vigilant. Remember that many items washed ashore, like fishing lines, litter, plant-life, and dead fish, may not be safe for your dog. When he goes exploring, keep a close eye on the objects he finds.
Pick up after your dog! Help keep the water clean and the beach pleasant for other visitors.
Give your dog a bath. If possible, give him a good rinse with fresh water before leaving the beach. When you get home, make sure to wash your dog immediately! Chemicals from sea water can be harmful to your dog's coat and health.

So have fun , take your dog or dogs to an area that is not full of people , be prepared to have a good time and be respectful of your dogs needs and the others around.