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Five Treats You Can Make for Your Pets from Thanksgiving Leftovers

10/13/2017

The Best Choices to Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy
It’s that time of year again! As the holidays approach many of us have holiday plans which mainly revolve around food. Thanksgiving is the main one, with people attending or entertaining large feasts. As always, pets get their share of scraps from the table, but there is a safer way to treat your pet and help them enjoy the festivities in a safe and healthy way. The best thing you can do for your pet is to make sure you know what they are eating and that it is safe for them. That being said, here are the top five treats that you can make pet-friendly from your Thanksgiving leftovers.

5. Bread Rolls
We all enjoy lasts night’s turkey sandwiched between some bread. It might not be that extravagant, but save some of those rolls for your furry friend. Rolls and other cooked bread are a safe and healthy way to treat your pet. Not only is it easy for you to serve, it’s satisfying for them. If necessary, gluten-free options are available. Pets can have allergies too!

4. Cranberries
Cranberries are a healthy treat that most pets can eat. Some may shy away from the tartness, but you can easily make it into a delicious and palatable after dinner dessert. For all of you DIY foodies, you can even mix fresh cranberries with any other treat on this list for a decadent meal. Try this recipe for an outstanding Thanksgiving meal for your beloved pet.

3. Turkey
Keeping kitty care in mind along with safe treats for dogs, turkey is a safe and easy treat to give as long as you keep it pet-friendly. This means no skin or bones or fatty parts of meat. Plain cooked turkey is an ideal and delicious way to keep your pets entertained and feel included in your meal.

2. Sweet Potatoes
You can easily include sweet potatoes in your pets’ Thanksgiving feast. Just remember to hold the toppings or mix-ins that you put in your own portion. Butter and sugar are to be avoided here. Plain cooked sweet potato can be baked into yummy bite-sized treats that your pet will love.

1. Pumpkin Pie
These treats may not be actual pumpkin pie, but they are just as lavish as what you will be eating. Like the sweet potatoes, pumpkin is great for pets without the added sugar. When you’re making your pumpkin pie you can set some of the pumpkin filling aside. Serve it to your pets as is or make these fun baked treats. Your pets will adore you!
Thanksgiving can be as much fun for your pets as it is for you, just keep in mind that moderation is key when feeding these savory snacks. Your pet sitting service can help by giving you more ideas for treats or even by providing you with assistance if you’re traveling or throwing a party. Remember that after all of those delicious treats your pet will be in need of a walk or some serious play time. A pet sitting service or dog walker can help with that too!

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How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need

10/6/2017

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Keeping your dog healthy and happy with daily exercise provides many benefits. Regular exercise can improve your dog’s mental health and physical wellbeing and reduce some common behavioral problems such as excessive barking, digging, chewing, and hyperactivity that are attributed to boredom, frustration, or anxiety. The amount of exercise your dog needs is dependent on several factors including its age, breed, personality, and initial fitness level.

Puppy
Every puppy is different. You will learn more about your puppy and the amount of exercise needed by spending more time with the pet. However, it is highly recommended that you talk to either a breeder or vet in order to found out how much daily activity is good for your puppy. Puppies usually have more energy compared to adult dogs hence they need more exercise in short bursts. It is also important to note that puppies are growing constantly, which is why it is ideal to engage your puppy in play sessions or to take your four-legged friend on several short walks throughout the day rather than opting to go for one really long walk because it can be strenuous on your dog’s developing body.

Adult Dog
The breed of your dog is a big determinant of the level of physical activity it needs. High-energy breeds such as the Belgian Malinois and Border Collies need more exercise compared to lower-energy breeds such as the Basset Hound or Bulldog. You should always factor in your dog’s breed when it comes to determining how much exercise your pet needs. Another thing that you should consider is your dog’s health. If your adult dog has a medical condition including heart or respiratory issues or hip dysplasia, you should consult your vet about the most appropriate exercise routines that will help your four-legged companion to remain healthy without any discomfort. Be sure to inform your pet sitter of any special care that is needed as well.

Senior Dog
Your senior dog may not be as active. However, regardless of age, exercise is still important. Exercise helps to keep dogs active and provides them with mental stimulation. You should observe your dog’s behavior and consult with a vet about the exercise your dog requires. If you spend adequate time with your dog you are better suited to judge how much exercise your senior dog may comfortably handle. The vet, on the other hand, can provide guidance and give you an informed opinion or advice on your dog’s exercise needs.
If have a busy schedule or you are finding it hard to keep up with your dog’s daily exercise routine you should consider paying for the services of a professional pet sitting service. This will guarantee that your dog is under the care of an experienced dog walker who will take your pet for a walk, which will ensure that your dog gets the daily exercise it needs to stay fit and to burn off excess energy. A pet sitter will also ensure that your dog gets the attention and daily exercise that is required. Some pet sitting services also provide kitty care, which is a bonus if you own a cat. You can leave both of your pets in a safe place where they will be well taken care of. In general, make sure that your dog gets the exercise it needs. If you are not in a position to keep up with your pet’s weekly schedule, do not hesitate to leave your dog under the care of the best pet sitting service.

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5 Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats

9/28/2017

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Many people believe the stereotype that cats and dogs do not get along. However, just like many other stereotypes, there are always exceptions to the commonly held beliefs. There are some dog breeds that are actually known to form strong bonds with cats! Many homeowners have even given positive feedback regarding how their dogs and cats are good friends. If you have a cat and would also like to add a dog to your household or vice-versa, you should know that certain dog breeds are wonderful and can live in harmony with your cat. Fortunately for you, there are many dog breeds that you can choose from. Below are five of the best dog breeds that get along well with cats.

Labrador Retriever
Labradors are known to be one of the friendliest, and obedient canines in the world. The dogs are known to get along with cats and they enjoy their company. Moreover, due to their friendly nature, they are also the perfect companion for families with children.

Bichon Frise
If you love small dogs the Bichon Frise is an ideal choice. They are cheerful, gentle, and playful, which makes them the perfect companions for cats. When a house cat and Bichon Frise are raised together, they can become friends quickly and within no time they will start playing like siblings. Even if the two animals are introduced to each other later on in life, they can still learn to get along.

Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland sheepdog is a small dog that you will love having around. They are known to be highly intelligent and responsive to their owners. These dogs will easily get along with your cat thanks to their intelligence, and patient nature. They can easily be trained and pick up on commands fast. Once the dog knows how your cat should be treated, they will end up becoming great companions.

Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small dogs that are increasing becoming popular in many households. They are known to be cat friendly and to have an active personality. They are intelligent dogs that can easily be trained to get along with cats. The Pomeranian is the ideal small dog for anyone with a cat in the household.

Pug
Pugs are suitable dogs for cats especially because they are receptive, comprehensive, and friendly. They are also playful, which makes them good companions. Since pugs don’t particularly like hot weather, that makes them a great candidate to stay indoors with cats. If you need a dog that can be indoors for long periods, a pug makes a good choice. Just be sure to keep your cat’s nails trimmed regularly since a pug’s eyes can be a bit vulnerable given their slight bulge.
The list above includes 5 dog breeds that are ideal for you home if you own a cat or intend to get one. In some cases, the bond will not be instantaneous. Fortunately there are several tips that can help you to successfully introduce a dog to a cat.

If you are worried about finding time to take care of your pet or walking the dog, you should know that these problems can easily be handled by a pet sitting company. A good company will ensure that your dog is taken for a walk by a professional dog walker. If you do not have the time to take care of your dog a pet sitter can ensure that the dog gets all the food, water, and company needed. In some cases, the same company can also offer kitty care services. In general, taking care of your pets will be less daunting and convenient by simply hiring the services of a professional pet sitter. Taking all the points raised above into account, you should definitely add a cat-friendly dog to your house.

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5 Spices That Are Dangerous for Your Dog

9/22/2017

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How To Keep Your Dog Safe In The Kitchen
Keeping your furry friend safe is the utmost importance for any pet owner. When it comes to the kitchen inside your home, there are dangers lurking that could make your dog very sick. While it is always a good idea to keep nibbles and bites of people food to a minimum, these spices are an absolute no-no for your dog, so be sure to keep them out of reach. A professional pet sitter or dog walking service can help protect your pet and make sure that these spices are off limits for your dog!

Garlic
Garlic is a toxic spice that can cause your dog a lot of discomfort. Because garlic has sulfoxides and disulfides, it can easily damage your dog’s red blood cells. This can cause anemia in the most severe of cases, but in most instances, will result in gastrointestinal irritation such as vomiting or diarrhea. Keep garlic away from your dog for their safety.

Onion
Onions are another spice that can cause an upset stomach for your dog and should be avoided at all costs. When ingested this sulfur spice creates vomiting and diarrhea and can damage your pet’s internal red blood cells that are used to carry oxygen to the tissue. Keep onions out of reach and be sure to let everyone that comes in contact with your dog such as the pet sitter or dog walking service that onions, among other spices, aren’t safe for your dog to eat.

Chives
Chives are another spice that contains sulfoxides and disulfides that are essentially sulfurs that make your dog have gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Chives can also damage the red blood cells and cause your dog to suffer anemia in large amounts. This toxic spice should be kept away from your dog and remember not to feed them food that has been spiced with this ingredient.

Salt
Salt in its purest form or even in snack foods can be extremely unhealthy for your dog. Too much salt can cause your pet to show signs of excessive thirst and urination. If your dog experiences a salt overdose, they will have vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and even seizures. This can result in sodium ion poisoning and make your dog very ill. Keep the salt on the table and off your dog’s treats as you would hate to make your dog sick over a simple spice.

Nutmeg
Nutmeg is an especially dangerous spice that causes vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. Your dog may experience abdominal pain if they ingest nutmeg in any form and have a high-level excitement afterward. This will soon dissipate, and your dog will become extremely drowsy and become very sick. Large amounts of nutmeg could even result in the death of your beloved dog, which is a good enough reason to keep this spice away from your pet.
Beware of these spices to keep your dog safe and healthy. Having a professional pet sitter or dog walker will help to keep your dog safe while you are away because they can ensure that these dangerous items are kept away from your dog so your pet doesn’t have a bad incident.

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Why You Should Use A Pet Sitter To Keep Your Pet Safe During Labor Day

8/30/2017

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Why you should use a pet sitter to keep your pet safe during Labor Day

Labor Day is fast approaching and pet sitter will have a huge task on their hands by ensuring that their client’s pets are safe, as the owners travel for the holiday at hand. It is common for pet owners to be guilty of leaving their beloved pets home, while they are far away enjoying the Labor Day holiday with friends or family. To counter this feeling, pet owners normally hire someone they can trust to take undertake pet sitting when they are away. The pet sitters will be able to undertake dog walking using a dog walker, change the cat litter & any other kitty care service, enjoy the daily routine and even reach out to do more duties that extend the happiness of the pets. If possible, the pet sitters can go an extra mile to ensure that the environment in the home is clean and tidy.

Pet sitters who are professional are bonded, trained and licensed. They are always ready to take care of any emergency that concerns your pet, with the right skills and professionalism. You will be giving yourself more security if you hire professional pet sitters. When you will be travelling in the next few days for the Labor Day, ensure that you hire a pet sitter to provide the appropriate care that your pet needs, during the engagement of the holiday.

Why use a pet sitter during the Labor Day holiday

1. The happiness of the pets is at home
Since pets are habitual creatures, they are happier at home than anywhere else; the comfort they get from being familiar with their surrounding helps them reduce stress and anxiety that makes them healthier.

2. Tender love and care
A pet sitter will ensure that your pets receive quality time, extra care which will make them feel comfortable, even when they have a new person around them.

3. peace of mind
Having the knowledge that your pet is being taken care of at home, and it is being looked after by a pet sitter who can be trusted, can help you relax and give you the peace of mind to enjoy your holiday.

4. Safety

In case there is any emergency that arises, a pet sitter who is well trained will know what to do immediately a situation occurs. Whether your pet needs emergency medical care or medications that are supposed to be taken at specific periods of time, a pet sitter will be able to handle any situation any time.

5. Care that is dependable

Since your family and friends might be trusted individuals, who by all intents and purposes would mean no harm to your pet, they may not be that dependable when it comes to looking after your pet. Remember that your family members might be planning to go for their holiday at the same time that you expect them to look after your pet. When you hire a professional pet sitter, you will get professional dependability, with the surety that your pet is under great care.

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Why Hiring a Dog Walking Service Gives You Peace of Mind

8/18/2017

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5 Reasons to Hire a Dog Walker
As a pet owner or the lucky friend of a lovable pooch, do you sometimes need to spend some time away from home? Leaving a pet alone is never easy and sometimes downright dangerous. The solution to this problem, though, is the options you have to bring a pet sitter into your home. Working long hours can be stressful for both you and your pet. The decision to take a vacation may also cause distress over how to house your furry friend. Luckily, dog walking services can provide your pooch with care and companionship no matter your situation. Here are five reasons to hire a dog walking service to give you peace of mind that your dog is safe and happy while you are away.

5. Stress Relief
Leaving your pet can be stressful for both you and your pup. First of all, you will get stressed trying to get home to let your pet out. This limits what you can do in your day. Maybe you feel the need to come home on your lunch break and miss out on a meal. Your co-workers might invite you out for a drink after work, but you have to rush home. Your dog walker can be a relief. They are able to come to your home for scheduled walks and even feedings, so you don’t have to worry.

4. Comfort
Leaving your pet in a crate for hours while you are at work can be uncomfortable. Also, taking your pet to a boarding kennel for days can be downright frightening. If your pet is able to stay in the comfort of his or her own home with the assistance of your pet sitter, you will all have a better peace of mind. This aspect is especially important for pets with anxiety issues. Leaving them in a well-known environment with a trusted pet sitter will keep them comfortable.

3. Professional Care
Not only is your pet getting the attention it deserves, but pet sitters also provide professional care. An added bonus is that it is one-on-one care, unlike the care a kennel can provide. Your pup will be the only one (or ones if you have a few pets) that the sitter will be taking care of at one time. You can also opt for grooming services or even just long walks in the park. This type of care will keep the stress away from you and your beloved pet.

2. Training
Especially if you have a puppy, a dog walking service can make sure training stays on schedule. Regular potty breaks and walks are essential and while you’re away you can rest assured that your pet sitter is there to keep any routine you’ve established going strong.

1. Companionship
Nobody likes to be bored. Pets are no exception. Your dog walker can fill in any void left when you are away. A game of fetch, a good brushing session, and even just petting while watching TV or listening to music can be enough to keep your pet from becoming stressed.

Now that you’ve seen how a dog walking service can help your situation whether away from home for hours or days, you can begin to rest easy. The next step is to contact your dog walking service to meet the professional that will be spending time with your furry friend. You’ll get the peace of mind knowing that your pet is in good hands and come home to a happy, healthy pooch!

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The Benefits of In-Home Pet Care

8/7/2017

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Choosing The Best Doggy and Kitty Care

Are you looking for great in-home pet care? Your pet sitting service can help! From walking your dog to providing a steady routine for your cat, you can give your pet the best care in your own home while you are away without worry.

The problem with boarding your pet at a crowded kennel may be that one-on-one attention is guaranteed. This doesn’t necessarily mean anyone is to blame; it’s just the nature of the business. Kennels can get incredibly busy and that may men attention for the animals is divided. Inviting your pet sitter to give in-home care to your pet diminishes this issue.
Read along for tips on how this type of affordable “luxury” service can be right for you!

Dog Care
Stress relief is one of the main reasons for in-home dog care. Not only will your pup not have to risk the adjustment to a dog kennel, your pet sitter can ensure that they are comfortable in their own home.
Exercise is necessary and your pet sitter will be able to not only take your dog on regular walks, but can engage them in a game of catch.

Your dog can also benefit from having the access to proper medical attention if it is necessary. In the very unlikely event that your pet needs medical attention, your choice for in-home care just may be crucial optimal health. Your trusted in-home pet sitter can much more easily get your pet to your usual veterinarian in an acceptable amount of time.

Kitty Care
Cats require a different kind of care, but with the help of your pet sitting service, you can get matched with the right care-giver. Felines do not necessarily need the walks that a dog does, but the companionship provided is equally important in this case.

In addition, self-feeders may work for some, but ensuring a proper diet for your cat is much more successful when an attentive eye is present. Your pet sitter can monitor your kitty’s eating and hydration habits to ensure they are correct. If necessary, they can also alert you to any unsettling changes. After all, we know our pet's demeanor can change if their routine changes. Don’t you want to leave your pet in the best care possible?

Now that you have the best guidelines for picking a pet sitter, it’s time to get started looking for your perfect match. Leaving your pet behind for a day or longer can be unsettling, but it doesn’t have to be. Finding the right pet sitter may take some time, but it’s worth it in the long run. Your pet’s safety and comfort will be an important thing while you’re away. Whether you are away for business or on a stellar vacation, you don’t want to have to worry. Click here for more guidelines and to see how to keep your pets in the best care that they deserve. You will rest easy knowing you selected the best in-home pet care!

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Choosing A Dog Walking Service

7/31/2017

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Trusting your dog to a stranger can be a scary proposition, but when it comes to a dog walking service, it’s a necessary requirement. You can ease your dog into a new exercise routine by vetting the dog walker before you leave them alone to care for your furry friend. This can make the transition easier for both parties and help you feel more relaxed about the situation. Keep these tips in mind when you are looking to hire a dog walking service for your dog.

Ask For Referrals

One of the simplest of ways to find a dog walking service that you can trust and rely on is by asking your friends and family for referrals of services that they used. They will happily recommend a dog walker they really like and help you avoid one that won’t be focused on your dog.

Must Love Dogs

The most important requirement of the dog walker that you select is that they have a love of dogs. They should own a dog themselves or had one in the past or be extremely fond of animals, especially your dog’s breed. This can help foster a nurturing relationship between the two, ensuring that both are enjoying themselves on their walk.

Look For References Of Past Clients

Be sure to follow up on the references that your dog walking service provides to see what type of experience past clients have had with the company. This can help you weed out dog walkers before there is an issue and ensure your dog is properly cared for.

Gets Along With Your Dog

Give the dog walker and your dog a chance to meet before you hire as this will allow you to see how the two interact together and if their personalities are a match. Your dog should obey the dog walker, and they both should feel comfortable when they are together.

Fits Your Schedule

You want to find a dog walking service that can adhere to you and your dog’s schedule as well as the amount of exercise that your dog needs. They should be able to commit to early mornings or late evenings as required and walk your dog a significant distance to ensure they get the activity they need.

Take A Test Walk

Before you commit to a dog walker, try a test walk with your dog. This will give you firsthand knowledge of how your dog will be handled and what type of route they will take. This will also let you see if your dog can be properly managed without harm or demands that you are not comfortable with.
Hiring the right dog walking service can allow your dog to get the exercise they need as well as make a new best friend that they look forward to seeing each week. Be sure to use these tips to find a dog walker that works well with your pet and makes you feel at ease when they are together. To learn about how to find a pet sitting service click here.

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Common Fears Your Dog Might Have

7/22/2017

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What Is Your Dog Scared Of?
Did you know that your dog’s bad behavior may be a result of them being scared? Several things can set a dog off and make them act out of character or create anxiety. Knowing when your dog is afraid, can help you ease their fears and stop their bad behavior from creating real havoc in your life. Here are the most common fears your dog has and how to help them through these trying situations.

Being Confined
Your dog may also have anxiety about being confined. They may have problems adjusting to the room you have left them in when as they have no real place that they can feel safe. They need to feel secure in their own haven, and you can create a place for them to call their own with a dog crate or special bed that they know is just for them. Use plenty of blankets and pillows to make it cozy and include some of their favorite toys. Soon your dog will look forward to this special zone with your home that has been created just for them.

Being Alone
Your furry friend may be afraid when you leave them alone. They may destroy your home when you are away or try to hurt themselves as a result of the anxiety they are feeling. Helping your dog calm down when you leave them alone can be managed by practicing being away for short periods of time. You need to reinforce their good behavior with rewards and help them to understand that you will be coming back.
Consider having a pet sitter when you leave for longer periods of time. This can help your dog stay calm, knowing that someone will be there with them. In addition, it is a good idea to give your dog plenty of exercise, so they are tired out when you leave and can relax easier. A dog walker can help you with this task if your schedule doesn’t allow for this.

Noises
Your dog may panic at the sound of loud noises. This can cause them to have high levels of anxiety and cower in fear or bark when they hear something that startles them. You can help distract our dog when there are loud noises such as thunder or fireworks by cuddling with them or playing a game that will take their mind off what is bothering them. A pet sitting service can also help to keep your dog calm during a storm or loud event if you can’t be there to comfort them.

Unfamiliar Situations
When your dog encounters something new they can feel a range of emotions as they are unsure of the environment, people or other animals around them. You can help ease them into a new situation by socializing them more and getting them used to the unfamiliar. Use a leash to help control the situation and allow them to take to new people or dogs at their own pace.
Understanding your dog’s fears can help you nip that bad behavior before it gets out of control. If you can’t be there to calm your dog’s fears, try hiring a pet sitting service to be with them when you cannot. This can provide your dog the comfort they need and help to reduce their fears.

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