Blog
Asking For A Fur-Friend
How Much Exercise Does Your Cat Need?
We know that exercise is crucial for our feline friends to keep them healthy and ensure good muscle and bone health. It can also help with your cat's coordination when they stalk, chase and attack their prey.
We know that exercise is crucial for our feline friends to keep them healthy and ensure good muscle and bone health. It can also help with your cat's coordination when they stalk, chase and attack their prey. Obesity in cats is a problem and engaging in play every day with your cat can help reduce their risk for being overweight. Another reason we need to make sure our cats are getting adequate physical play is that it leads to mental stimulation. Exercise helps avoid depression in humans, as well as in our pets, and studies show about 40% of cats suffer from this due to boredom. We know pets who do not have enough physical and mental stimulation can develop behavioral problems, which can be destructive, such as scratching furniture, chewing or being overly hyperactive.
On average, cats need about 30 minutes of physical activity every day. The amount of exercise required might also change depending on your cat’s age and whether they are indoor-only cats. Naturally, cats are hunters and respond to stimuli quickly. If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, while I do not agree with it, those cats who go outdoors require a different exercise regime than indoor cats do. Cats who venture outdoors have unlimited space to roam, they are more physically active and tend to get enough exercise naturally. Also being outdoors those cats are exposed to stimuli such as bugs and leaves which motivates them to perform stunts and be more active. Indoor cats have limited space and less exposure to natural stimuli unless they are like my cat, Phoebe, who finds spiders in the basement we didn't even know were down there. We need to make sure we are motivating our cats to participate in interactive games. You can do this by using toys like feathers, ropes and balls to keep them healthy. Engaging in play with your cat helps enforce the bond you have with your pet as well.
Whether your cat is older or is a young kitten also determines how much play they should have each day. Adult cats should exercise daily for at least a half an hour to keep their body fit and healthy. It also helps to keep their hunting skills sharp and provides the mental stimulation they need. On the flip side, kittens and young cats can sleep up to 22 hours a day, so they are naturally not as active as adult cats. Even though they are not as active, you should still exercise them daily with their favorite toys.
Fun and Easy Exercises for Indoor Cats
Bathtub Ball. With a dry bathtub, toss a ball inside. Your feline friend will be able to play freely inside the tub. Cats do not get bored easily when there are moving targets involved, so let them bat the ball around; you can join in and roll it for them to chase.
Laser Pointers. As we mentioned, cats love things in motion. You can use a laser pointer to keep your cat moving. To encourage your cat to play, use the laser pointer to move like a mouse or bug may move. Always remember to reward your cat after playing with the laser pointer, as there is not a tangible item they are catching; a treat can make up for it.
Animal Toys. Cats are very observant creatures and can somehow distinguish the physical appearance of real life and fake stimuli. Consider getting your cats toys that resemble real animals like birds, bugs and mice. To make it more exciting, connect a string to the toys and give the toys some life.
Ribbons and Wands. Tie a ribbon or string to the end of a wand and let your cats chase it around the house. These toys are great while you are engaged in play with your cat, but should be put away when the cat is alone to ensure they do not accidently choke on it.
Food Exercise. Mealtimes are very exciting and tempting for cats, especially when wet food is involved. We can help our cats hone their hunting skills by changing up the places where we feed them, or place the wet food in places they may need to climb or hunt for it.
Get Some Cat Towers. Cats love to climb and jump on things, so encourage them to use a cat tree instead of a couch or chair. Multi-tiered cat towers ensure your pet has lots of places to climb and play. To encourage your cat to climb or jump on their tree, place some treats on different levels to help them explore.
Try Catnip. Catnip and catnip toys are useful to help your cat to exercise. Your cat can have fun eating, rolling and being stimulated by the nip, but please note that some cats do not respond to catnip and some may become overly stimulated by it.
Introduce Leash-Walking. Much like training dogs on a leash, you can entice your cat to walk on a leash and harness outdoors. This can be a safe way to introduce your cat to the outside world. It is best to start young and slowly introduce the harness to your cat. Always make sure the harness is secure so your cat cannot wiggle out of it.
Get Your Cat A Pinata. Cats love batting at hanging objects. Putting kibble or treats in the pinata can motivate your cat to bat and play with the pinata. Your cat will be rewarded for their work as the treats drop from the pinata as your cat plays.
Match Exercise Partners. Unlike dogs, your cat may not respond to your requests to play or engage. You can consider adding a second cat as a playmate. They can get along well and engage each other in fun activities like chasing each other, wrestling or even cuddling.
So, overall, most indoor cats do not receive enough playtime and as pet owners, we should take the time to engage with our pets and ensure they get the physical activity they need. Choose games your cat enjoys or get to know which toys are their favorite. Even if 30 minutes does not fit into your schedule, any amount of vigorous play is great for our cats.
When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Dog
In the United States it is common practice to spay and neuter our dogs who are not meant for breeding. Based on the National Pet Owners survey in 2020 78% of dog-owning households have spayed or neutered their dog. Spaying and neutering has become a routine practice due to veterinarians and the animal shelter community working together to reduce the number of unwanted pets who would be euthanized.
In the United States it is common practice to spay and neuter our dogs who are not meant for breeding. Based on the National Pet Owners survey in 2020 78% of dog-owning households have spayed or neutered their dog. Spaying and neutering has become a routine practice due to veterinarians and the animal shelter community working together to reduce the number of unwanted pets who would be euthanized.
Let’s start with the basics. Typically, the spay and neuter take place when the pets are a young age, usually around 6 months. However, as we learn more about our pets and have a larger awareness of their health and safety, this young age may not be the best time for your dog. We know more now about the correlation of our pets sex horomones and their health. Research done at the University of California - Davis, reveals that for some dog breeds, spaying and neutering can cause an increased risk in certain health conditions.
What we do know is that different dog breeds and different sized dogs mature at different ages, so for some an early spay or neuter may not be bad. The wide margin of when each breed matures varies. Toy breed dogs can mature as early as 6 to 9 months while large or giant breeds may mature as late as 16-18 months. So, the large and giant breeds had a higher possibility of risk to future health conditions due to early spaying and neutering.
Like many things, spaying and neutering can have its benefits and its risks. Another reason veterinarians can settle on an early age for this procedure is that if a pet is not going to be bred, spaying a female dog before her first heat cycle has significant benefits in reducing mammary cancers and other cancers of the reproductive organs. For male dogs, the removal of testosterone can have effects on the dog that are decreased or eliminated. Behaviorally, neutered dogs can be less aggressive, less likely to roam in their never ending search for a mate and reduction of humping behavior. Recent studies have linked early spay and neuter to some health risks if done before sexual maturity. However, the two most common ones are urinary incontinence and obesity. No one is quite sure why obesity is seen more in spayed females, however, both these conditions are treatable.
There is no exact time to spay and neuter your dog as we have to take all the differences between breeds, estimated sizes and individual dogs into account. Your primary veterinarian will be able to help guide you through when a good time to spay and neuter your dog would be. If you have a purebred, your breeder can be a great resource to talk about when the best time to spay and neuter will be as well.
10 Ways to Engage Your Dog Indoors
With winter - or at least colder weather coming, it is necessary for us as pet owners to keep our dog physically healthy and active through the cooler months. It can be hard to continue to get creative with different activities for your pup as well as keeping up with doing these activities. Well, keeping your pup active and interested in what they are doing can help remedy some of the challenges.
With winter - or at least colder weather coming, it is necessary for us as pet owners to keep our dog physically healthy and active through the cooler months. It can be hard to continue to get creative with different activities for your pup as well as keeping up with doing these activities. Well, keeping your pup active and interested in what they are doing can help remedy some of the challenges.
So, here are 10 ways to engage your dog indoors.
Hidden Treats
Hiding treats can be synonymous with hide and seek. Treats can be concealed in different places around your home such as under pillows, in baskets, and in multiple rooms in your home. This game can also help keep your pooch’s nose abilities sharp as they hunt for food. This can especially be a fun activity for hunting dogs such as Spaniels, Terriers or Beagles. Along with hiding your pup’s regular treats or kibble, add a high value treat in the mix to ensure your pup remains interested in searching for the hidden treats. It can be a good idea to have a variety of treats of different flavors that your pet will be excited for. The best part about this game is being able to control the hiding spots and even difficulty of the challenge for your pet. Always make sure to switch up hiding spots or your pup will outsmart you and know exactly where the treats will be each time thus eliminating the benefits it has for nose work. You can also increase the difficulty by hiding treats in places your pet may have to work for. For a harder challenge, teach your pet to alert when they have found the treats. Teach them to sit and bark once when they have found the treat. After they do, always reward with head rubs, lots of ‘good dog’ and of course the treats. This can be made more difficult by hiding treats in a closet or behind a closed door and teaching your pup to alert at the door.
Hide and Seek
We touched a bit of this with hidden treats, but joining in on the fun with your dog can help to facilitate a stronger bond between you and your pup. Plus if you have children, this can not only be great bonding for them, but also it can keep your children occupied for some time too! Get your dog to sit and stay, get help from a human if they do not know how to stay yet, then go and hide. After finding your hiding spot, call your dog to come and find you. Always remember when your pup finds you, be very enthusiastic and reward them with praise and lots of head rubs. Also, make sure to change your hiding spots. One of my favorite places is behind a door. My pup smells me, but it increases the difficulty when they have to actually look behind the door and not just in a particular room. If you are excited, your pup will match your excitement. This will also help keep your dog engaged in the play.
Practice Obedience Training
While this should be done daily, getting a few sessions of obedience training or even one in a week is great to keep your pup in tip top shape with their skills as well as added mental stimulation to your dog’s day. Always use positive reinforcement and go over the commands and skills your pet already knows to start. Always switch up the order of the skills you are practicing or you will end up like me and my dog. I always start with ‘sit’ and she then automatically goes into her ‘lay down’ then ‘sit’ again before going into her extended stay stance. It’s cute, but I did not know what I know now, and it is hard to get her to break this routine after 14 years. When working on your pup’s skills, do not spend too much time with it. You do not want your pet to become bored of being asked to do the same thing over and over since this may cause your pet to become disinterested. Once your pet has their basic commands down, try introducing new ones such as ‘high five’ or teach your pet to do nose touches with your hands. Most activities can be adjusted based on your pup’s skill level.
Teach Your Dog A New Trick
Whoever says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks may be wrong. You can definitely teach your dog tricks at any age as long as you keep the dog excited and interested in what you are teaching them. Try teaching your pet to shake, learn the name of their favorite toy or even to army crawl under a chair. The possibilities are endless! One of my favorite tricks is to clean up. You can do this by teaching them what ‘clean up’ or ‘put it away’ means, by getting them to pick up a toy and carry it over to the toy box and drop it. The easiest way is to break it down step by step, slowly adding another step as they master the previous one. You can progress to scattering toys all over and pointing to them, or take it a step further and teach your pup the name of each of their toys. Another fun trick or more of a game is the shell game, or as I learned it growing up, follow the ball. Place a treat under an upside down cup next to a few other cups and move them around, pseudo having your pup follow the cup the treats are under. It is a fun parlor trick when your pup picks the right cup!
Create an Indoor Obstacle Course
If you have enough space, or even if you are able to move a coffee table out of the way in a living room, you can set up an obstacle course for your four legged friend. This can get as elaborate or as simple as you have the space for. Agility can be a great way to exercise your pup physically and mentally and offer enrichment. You can teach your pet the basics of agility by jumping over small boxes, weaving through tables or stacks of books and laying down on a blanket or their bed as the grand finale. This is another activity that is great if you have children. They will have fun building, moving and creating new obstacles for your pup. Kids play tunnels and tents can make for great obstacles as well. Obstacle courses can be tailored to the size of your pup as well. Anything your pup can weave through, jump up on to or over will make this activity fun for everyone.
Tug-of-War
Tug of war can be a great activity, especially if you have a small space. This activity will not make your dog hostile, but it will bring smiles to your face seeing your pet having so much fun with their human family members. This game is simple, but it can really tire your pup out. This is a great way for your dog to get out some extra energy. Always be cautious of things around your home that may be breakable since this game can sometimes get a bit rowdy.
Food Toys
One of the biggest struggles for pet parents who work from home is keeping your dog occupied while you are working. Food toys can be a great way to keep your pet entertained while you work or even while you are binging your favorite TV show. Toys that dispense food are fun and motivating for pups who are food motivated. It is as easy as putting some treats in a toy and walking away. There are toy dispensers that demand the dog push, pull, rotate or dig for their reward. Some toys such as Kongs can keep your pet occupied for a long time. Try freezing a Kong or hollowed out bone with tasty treats; you can even add broth, peanut butter, canned pumpkin or mashed bananas. That will surely make your pup a happy dog and it will last longer when frozen.
Fetching
Fetch does not just have to be an outdoor activity. There are other toys you can use other than balls that your pup can chase after and bring back to you. My dog, Sassy, loves toys that have no stuffing. She will chase and bring them back all day long! Considering a softer toy can also be a good idea when playing fetch indoors; it may save a lamp or two! Hallways are ideal for this game. They tend to be long and can be a place away from breakable objects in your home. Bouncing a ball off the walls of the hallway can also give your pet the excitement of more of a chase too!
Rotate Your Dogs Toys
Dogs love ‘new things’. Just as we get excited about something new, they do too! However, to them something new can be something they have not seen in a while. Rotating toys helps so your pup does not get bored with the toys they have available to them and make the toys that are available seem much more interesting. Stash some of your dog's toys in a cupboard or closet and swap them out with other toys every few weeks. This helps to keep the wow factor and your pet will be so excited for a new toy. They won;’t miss the ones that you now are about to put away. If your pet has a toy they use as a security blanket, do not add that toy into rotation. You do not want to stress your dog out by hiding their favorite soothing toy from them for weeks on end.
Use Pet Training Equipment
Just like humans, pets have their set of training aids. Scientists are starting to learn that training equipment may play a crucial role in a dog’s well-being. Agility tunnels and even treadmills are the most popular dog training pieces of equipment. You need to work with your pup before they are able to use a treadmill for exercise and you must listen to your pet if they don’t progress. If this happens, it may be time to switch gears and find something that your dog will enjoy. Once your pet gets used to training equipment, it can be a great time for your pet! Know that some of these items can be pricey and can take up a lot of space in your home.
If you have a dog, you know when boredom sets in is when your pup is more likely to find themselves getting in trouble. Dogs need a good balance of physical and mental play and stimulation. Playing with your pup may ward off destructive behaviors like excessive barking or finding non-toy items to chew on. Staying indoors does not have to be boring; as we talked about there are many ways to have fun with your pup and keep them engaged. I hope these ideas will give you some inspiration for new ways to play with your pet while indoors!
Thanksgiving With Your Pets
With Thanksgiving right around the corner and it being my favorite holiday - mainly for the food, I thought it would be fun to talk about holiday foods we can share with our four legged friends.
With Thanksgiving right around the corner and it being my favorite holiday - mainly for the food, I thought it would be fun to talk about holiday foods we can share with our four legged friends.
So let's start with the main dish that most of us find at holiday gatherings - Turkey! For those that wonder if dogs can eat turkey at Thanksgiving, the answer is yes. The main dish is okay to offer as long as it has not been prepared with any seasoning. In addition to avoiding bones as discussed, pet parents should skip out on feeding the skin as well. The outer layer of the poultry is likely to have been prepared with butter, spices, or other fatty ingredients that may cause pancreatitis or other issues for your dog.
Let’s dive into the sides, sweet potatoes are a great addition for your pets diet. They are also a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Sweet potato treats can be as simple as a dehydrated sweet potato chew. My dog Sassy just was given some Sweet Taters and she loved them! As did Regina and Phoebe. Just remember not to give your pet sweet potatoes containing any added ingredients such as brown sugar or marshmallows. If your family is like mine and no one can decide on just one type of potato. Your pup gets to enjoy both kinds of potatoes, and your dog can have that option, too. However, give only boiled or baked potatoes with no butter, sour cream, salt, or pepper, and serve in moderation as they are much more starchy than sweet potatoes.
Just like humans, your dogs will love to have a vegetable with their holiday meal as well. Peas are a fine choice, but creamed peas should be avoided. Fattier food items like this that may upset your dog’s stomach. Another great choice are green beans. With ample amounts of plant fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and K, plain green beans are great for dogs. The key here, as with turkey, sweet potatoes and other options mentioned in this list, is the bean dish should be plain — without any added ingredients like butter or spices and that means no green bean casserole for your pet!
Along with your vegetables your pet will be happy with their serving of fruit as well. Apples are full of vitamins A and C and contain lots of great fiber, making them a healthy Thanksgiving treat for your pet. However, if you’re sharing an apple with your pooch, be sure to cut around the core, as large amounts of apple seeds can be toxic.
What better way to wind up a holiday meal than with dessert. Pumpkin itself is a very healthy snack. Pumpkin helps with digestive health and it’s great for a dog’s skin and coat. Also, if feeding canned pumpkin, make sure it’s just pumpkin and not the pre-spiced pie mix. Or think out of the box with some frozen yogurt, not ice cream, but freeze yogurt as a nice treat for your pup. Calcium, protein, and live bacteria in yogurt that can act as probiotics will give your dog a tasty dose of nutrients, and a sweet post-meal treat.
There is also a list of things you should make sure to keep out of your pets reach during holiday dinners.
Turkey bones, skin, and gravy
Stuffing
Casseroles
Mashed potatoes
Creamed peas
Chocolate, cookies, pies, and sweets (especially anything containing xylitol)
Alcoholic beverages
Raisins and grapes
Onions, scallions, and garlic
Ham
Yeast dough
Fatty foods
Foods containing spices
And for good measure, don’t forget to keep the tempting scent of the trash of the special day’s meal out of reach, since we all know our dogs are super smellers.
So put out an extra place setting at the table this holiday season for your furry family member!
Why Do Cats Knead?
If you have a cat, chances are you’ve seen them making a rhythmic and repetitive motion with their paws on things such as pillows, blankets, the couch or even you. This is known as kneading.
If you have a cat, chances are you’ve seen them making a rhythmic and repetitive motion with their paws on things such as pillows, blankets, the couch or even you. This is known as kneading, which some loving refer to as ‘making biscuits’ or ‘making bread’ as the action resembles a person kneading dough. This behavior is completely normal in cats and it is an inborn behavior that kittens carry into their adulthood.
Let’s talk about why our cats knead.
Cats knead to feel comforted.
Newborn kittens gently knead their mother’s belly to help stimulate the flow of milk. This is an instinctual behavior and some cats may even dribble when kneading. As if they are drooling over the expectation of milk. While adult cats do not need to nurse, this is likely associated with comforting feelings. Cats may also purr as they knead showing you they are enjoying the feeling from kneading.
Cats knead to mark their territory.
Cats can be territorial creatures and may knead to help them claim their space. Cats have scent glands on their paws and kneading is a way of them leaving their scent in an area. They transfer their scent on whatever they are kneading and are also letting other cats know it is their space.
Cats knead to make the bed.
While kneading is tied to nursing, there may also be another instinct at play. They may knead on a surface to get comfortable before taking a cat nap - pun intended! The ancestors to the now known house cat, needed to flatten out and pat down resting and sleeping areas to make them more comfortable and detect any unforeseen hazards before sleep. So kneading may be a throwback to that ancient instinct.
Cats knead to show they like you.
Similarly to the way when a dog likes you, they lick you, cats can show their love in their own unique way as well. It is a compliment if a cat kneads on you, as it can mean that they are comfortable around you and they want to show their affection. And the more your cat loves you, sometimes the harder they knead. So sweet!
Cats knead to stretch.
Just as we need a good stretch once and a while so do our feline friends. When cats are kneading they outstretch their arms, simulating a good stretch. This action can help wake up muscles and stimulate circulation.
Cats knead to show they are going into heat.
If your female cat is not spayed, kneading might be an indicator that she wants to mate. Anytime your unspayed cat acts differently it can be a sign she is going into heat. There are also spayed cats who may exhibit the signals she is going into heat, but it is a false heat. Behaviors such as rubbing against you, being extra cuddly and affectionate or making different vocal sounds on top of kneading can tell you your cat is ready to mate.
Puppy Biting
The most common question I am asked about is puppy biting, we all know that puppies will try to nibble just about anything they can get their mouths and they should grow out of it with age. But when it becomes excessive there are some great things we can do to help curb that habit.
The most common question I am asked about is puppy biting, we all know that puppies will try to nibble just about anything they can get their mouths and they should grow out of it with age. But when it becomes excessive there are some great things we can do to help curb that habit.
Excessive puppy biting is typically a result of other problems. As I mentioned before, puppy biting is normal and they grow out of it with age. But you can help minimize their biting by meeting their needs, and by creating desired habits from your pup.
Physical Exercise. Dogs need a mix of high stimulation exercise, such as play, chase and fetch. As well as low stimulation exercise, such as sniff walks, hikes and swimming. Making sure your puppy is receiving a healthy exercise routine can help tire them out.
Mental Exercise. Enrichment is great for your pup's mental health. It helps dogs relax, and feel fulfilled. Things such as training, sniffing, chewing, and searching for treats. Training is a very important part of having a puppy, but it doesn’t end there. Training is great mental exercise for dogs of all ages.
Hungry or Teething. Many young, bitey dogs need three meals a day until puppy biting subsides. Teething also makes a lot of puppies grumpy. Have plenty of yummy or cold chewing options available for them. Freezing some broth with a treat inside can be a great treat for a pup who is teething.
Over-Tired. If your dog crashes and sleeps after a biting fit, it is likely that they were over-tired and lacking the ability to play nicely. Always give your puppy time to nap where they will not be interrupted and often away from the family. Crate training can be a great solution or give your pup a space in the house where they will not be disturbed, such as a spare bedroom or bathroom.
Over-Aroused. When play goes too long or things get overly exciting, dogs can get a rush of adrenaline to the point where it is hard for them to not use their mouths. Use enrichment and manage playtime to give them the breaks they may need.
Defensive Biting. Missing or ignoring body language that says “don't do that” leads to dogs taking further actions to stop the unpleasant event. There is a great book called Canine Body Language by Brenda Aloff that is a great overview of basic canine body language. The best part is there are pictures to support each body language so you are able to see what it looks like on a dog as well as reading about it. I got it on Amazon and encourage all dog owners with dogs of any age to check it out. But I digress, the unpleasant event can be during petting, play or around food or toys. Most of the time a dog bite occurs that dog has shown at least one if not more than one sign that they are uncomfortable.
If your pup is still excessively biting after trying some things we talked about, consider limiting your dog's space from time to time where they are unable to practice the unwanted behavior. Crates, tethers and play pens are great options until you are able to consult with a trainer.
Pocket Pets
Pocket pets are what people call small domestic animals such as gerbils, hamsters, ferrets and rabbits. Many people opt to adopt a pocket pet as opposed to a dog or cat because they are easier to take care of, and they don't require as much attention as their canine and feline counterparts.
Pocket pets are what people call small domestic animals such as gerbils, hamsters, ferrets and rabbits. Many people opt to adopt a pocket pet as opposed to a dog or cat because they are easier to take care of, and they don't require as much attention as their canine and feline counterparts. Whether you live in a small space and cannot have a large animal, you’re gone all the time and cannot properly care for a more active animal or whether you just want a pet that is low maintenance and relaxed, pocket pets make great companions for the non-dog and non-cat people.
Preparing for your pocket pets.
Although some smaller animals are much more low maintenance than larger animals, you still need to take time to prepare your home for them. This means investing in tanks, cages and all the accessories needed for your future pet. Many people assume that small animals don’t need a lot of space, but many smaller animals still need space to run, hop and play. While smaller animals might be easy and inexpensive, setting up their living environments can be costly.
So let’s talk about what the easiest small animals to care for are and why they might be the right pet for you.
Hamsters are fun and active pets, but you need to know they are nocturnal, meaning they sleep during the day and are awake at night. That means they may be a disappointing pet for small children. But! If you work long days and are home at night, a hamster might be a good pet for you. They are relatively low maintenance and hamsters are good at entertaining themselves. They love wheels, tubes and toys to play with. They need a wire cage with a solid bottom to live in that is padded with shavings.
Guinea Pigs are fun. They are much more active than hamsters and have a more expressive personality. Once you and your pig get to know each other, you will be able to tell when they are happy, sad, mad or excited. Guinea Pigs prefer a large open space where they can run around, graze freely and be safe from predators. We care for many pigs in my pet sitting business. Most of them have wire cages with solid bottoms, but also have a fenced in pen to be able to run around in. Guinea pigs enjoy climbing on huts and they love burrows. If you are considering a Guinea Pig, you should know that they really enjoy being with others of their species, as loneliness tends to set in which can lead to depression. I do know that with enough socialization with their pet parent, one Guinea Pig can live a full and happy life.
Rabbits can be a great choice for a smaller pet, but note they may not be the best pet for small children. Rabbits can be difficult to care for and are known for being temperamental. They are great pets, but they may not be as easy as some think. Rabbits are complex creatures and they need specific environments to be happy. They need an enclosed space for sleeping and resting but they also need an attached area that is large enough for them to run and play safely. Rabbits are a pet that thrive with a rabbit friend, but if you socialize with your bunny they can be happy on their own. Rabbits are naturally skittish creatures, so socialization cannot be forced. They like hay, greens like lettuce and parsley and they are also typically fed pellets to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need.
Chinchillas, I mean it’s just fun to say, Chinchilla. They are adorable, cuddly creatures but are also extremely intelligent. Once you get to know your chinchilla you will find they are trainable and will be able to perform basic tricks - for the right treats, of course. Chinchillas are nocturnal, so they, like hamsters, may be disappointing to children who go to bed early. Another very important thing to know about Chinchillas, they have an average lifespan of about 15 years - about the same as a dog or cat. Maintenance with chinchillas is fairly low, but they do need a fairly large cage with a dust bath in it. Chinchillas love their dust baths, so you need to be prepared to sweep or vacuum frequently. Like Guinea Pigs or Rabbits, Chinchillas do enjoy having a companion.
I have to be honest, Hermit Crabs do not get enough credit as pets, which really is a shame. I had hermit crabs growing up and they were fun creatures. As they grew out of their shells, I would add new ones for them and they were always decorated. Which is a good reason why these may be good pets for small children. Not only are they active, interesting and social creatures, as your hermit crabs grow you can pick out the cool new shells for them to call home. Hermit crabs do have a fairly long lifespan if cared for properly and can live up to 30 years. Hermit crabs love humidity, so a warm environment and daily misting is necessary. They also need rocks to climb, sand to dig in and places to hide.
Ferrets are actually a lot like cats. They are independent, curious and a little bit mischievous. Ferrets make great pets and they are very intelligent and energetic and can be trained to be low maintenance and loyal companions. Most Ferrets have a cage or enclosure they are put in for the night, but tend to have free roam during the day. With that being said, I mentioned before, they are a lot like cats and are very curious creatures, so you must make sure your home is Ferret proof so they cannot get into something that can harm them or a place they may get stuck.
And this brings me to the last pet I will talk about today, Fish. If you are looking at a non-tropical fish such as a goldfish or beta, they can be very low maintenance pets. You will still need a tank, filter, rocks and foliage for your fish, but beyond that care is minimal. Fish are typically fed once a day and as long as pH levels are good in the tank you really only need to clean the tank and replace water about once a week. If you are interested in tropical fish or exotic fish, your time and investment will sky rocket. Most tropical fish need very specific chemicals and levels of chemicals in their tank. There are also different pellets, flakes or cubes these types of fish eat. And the fish themselves are more expensive to purchase.
Small animals can make great, low maintenance pets. That being said, each creature will still need a proper living environment, healthy diet, care and nurture from their owners.
Enriching Your Cat’s Lives
We are always looking for different ways to connect and socialize with your feline friends. Some are more social and comfortable with us than others, but we can add enrichment to all cat’s who we cross paths with.
As a pet sitter, we are always looking for different ways to connect and socialize with your feline friends. Some are more social and comfortable with us than others, but we can add enrichment to all cat’s who we cross paths with.
So the first thing we need to know is that cats are always in fight or flight mode. They are one of the only mammals who are both prey and predator. They hunt for their food but are also prey for many other animals. This is also why it is a good idea to always keep your cat indoors. With this knowledge we can begin to recognize what our feline friends are going through. They are constantly trying to decide whether every person, noise or object is a threat or not and can be the reason why it can sometimes take some time for a kitty to warm up to you. They have to decide you are trustworthy and some cats take longer to make that decision.
When we talk about our cat’s health we usually are speaking to their physical health and well being, but we also need to make sure we are taking care of their emotional and cognitive health as well. So most cat’s lifestyles may look like hunt/play, eat, sleep, groom and be social. Most cats perform this cycle more than once per day and we want to make sure our cats are making the most of each activity.
I know I mentioned hunt earlier, but for cats that is their mode of play. So when you are engaging with your cat in play it should always mimic hunting. The stages of the hunt are eye, stalk, chase, pounce and kill. So think about what toys your cat loves playing with the most. It is a string with a toy on the end or maybe it’s a laser pointer or even a toy mouse. Each of those things mimics the hunt. Your cat sees the toy, red dot or mouse. They then will stalk it, some cats get down low and with quick head movements follow the item and prepare for the next step. Chasing - most cats will love to chase a toy mouse that has been thrown or will chase the red dot of a laser around a room and up the walls and even chase that toy on the string whether in the air or on the ground. Always remember, as your cat ages, they will still want to engage in the hunt play but you may need to slow things down or move to them casing objects on the floor and not in the air. The next stage is the pounce, we may see this occurring when our cats start to dance with their rumps in the air and boom, there they go! And finally the kill. While we don’t love it when our cats bring us a gift of their kill, we always need to make sure the play ends in a reward. Allow your cat to catch the toy at the end of the string, make sure they catch the dot and allow them to catch the mouse toy and bring it to you as a gift. Now when it comes to catching the red dot, that on its own is not always fulfilling, what I do with Regina and Phoebe I position the laser to one side of the room, drop a few treats on the floor and bring the laser back to the treats, it is their reward for ‘catching the red dot’. Always remember to rotate your cat’s toys every few days or weeks, just as we can get bored of certain items, cats do as well.
Eat. First I want to pose the question to you, where do you feed your cats? Most people say kitchen, why? Well most likely we feed our cats and dogs for that matter in the kitchen because that is where we eat. But, what if your feline friends don’t want to eat in the kitchen or even the same spot each day? They most likely will never be able to tell us where they would prefer to eat, but there are some basic things about cats we should know and this can help your cat feel more fulfilled during feeding times. While the quality of food we feed our cats is very important, we also need to keep in the back of our minds that sometimes where we feed our cats is more important than what. Cats, as creatures, want to work for their food. It is a basic instinct for them. Puzzle feeders can be great for this, there are so many styles of feeders from timers to puzzles. Just adding a puzzle feeder into your cat’s routine can create enrichment that has been missing from their lives.
Sleep. Did you know that cats spend between 12 and 16 hours each day sleeping, which means they sleep for 50-60% of each day. This is the time your cat recharges, since they are constantly in fight or flight mode, it takes a lot of mental energy for them to make it through the day. While your cat may spend most of their time sleeping, we need to make sure we are recognizing sleeping vs. being lethargic. It is always good to know your cat’s routine, as becoming lethargic can be a sign of something being wrong. Remember since they are also prey animals, they will try to hide illness and injury from us.
Groom. Cat’s love to groom themselves and if you have more than one cat, you may notice they groom each other. Welcome, hairballs! There are many reasons why our cats groom themselves. After your cat eats, you may notice they tend to immediately start grooming, they are hiding the scent of their food as well as their scent. When you cat groom themselves or another cat they are cleaning their fur of any debris or other scents as well as dispersing oils from their skin and fur evenly throughout. You always notice when a get is either no longer able to groom themselves as their fur becomes matted and oily in spots. Cats also groom themselves to clean injuries. Did you know that cat’s saliva has some antibacterial matter in them. Not saying if you are cut, you should allow your cat to clean your wound, but they will lick injuries as a way to assist with the healing process. And most fascinating, did you know that when a cat grooms they are also regulating their body temperature? After a cat is done grooming, touch the spot they just cleaned and it is actually cooler than other parts of their bodies.
And Social. Make sure when being social with your cat you are engaging in all five senses. This can be talking to your cat while they are on your lap and you are petting them. Trust is always key when interacting with a cat. In our business we do sometimes encounter cats who are shy or fearful, even just sitting in the same room with the cat, as long as they have a way out, can be enough social interaction.
Separation Anxiety
With offices opening this fall and schools going back to in person learning I think this is the best time to talk about separation anxiety in dogs. We are seeing pups who pre-pandemic never had any separation anxiety issues, we then went into lock down and most people were working from home and our pets got used to us being there all the time. We also are seeing what we are calling pandemic puppies, these are dogs who people brought home during the pandemic and the only thing these pups know is their people are always around and now they won’t be.
With offices opening this fall and schools going back to in person learning I think this is the best time to talk about separation anxiety in dogs. We are seeing pups who pre-pandemic never had any separation anxiety issues, we then went into lock down and most people were working from home and our pets got used to us being there all the time. We also are seeing what we are calling pandemic puppies, these are dogs who people brought home during the pandemic and the only thing these pups know is their people are always around and now they won’t be.
What we need to understand is this is a big transition for our pets and we need to be aware of signs of separation anxiety and more importantly we need to know what we can do to help our pets with this transition.
So what are some signs your pup is struggling with separation anxiety? You may start to see some signs of aggression when it was not there before. I have had some clients say their dogs have started barking and lunging at their ankles when the dog knows they are about to leave the house. Accidents in the home, such as wetting or defecating. We personally dealt with this, we called them spite accidents, although Sassy was not being spiteful, but she was telling us she was struggling with us leaving the home. She would do both her potties before we left and we would come home to a small wet spot in the same spot each time. Another big one is destructive behavior such as chewing baseboards or destroying furniture.
Excessive barking, whining or meowing, so we dealt with this as well, but not from Sassy. Regina, one of our cats would just sit at the door and mew and mew and when we returned she would not leave our side. Pacing and restlessness, your pups inability to self soothe, which is something we teach puppies at an early age, just as you would a child. Changes in mood, appetite and weight, you should always know your pets eating habits and potty habits, any changes in these can be a signal something is not right.
Another thing to watch for is repetitive or compulsive behaviors such as licking or chewing. While you may not be present when the act is happening you should watch out for areas of reddened skin and or bald patches. Most commonly dogs will go for their paws, tails or even right around their hips. Lastly, you should look out for behaviors such as tail-tucking, hiding, or shaking, behaviors we associate with fear. Your pup is telling you they are stressed and do not know how to calm themselves.
There are some things we can start doing now, while you are still at home that can help puppare are dogs for us returning to work, school, or activities that will keep us away from home for longer intervals.
You can build independence while you are still home with your dog. Encouraging your dog to explore on their own and be in a separate place from you can teach them it is okay to be alone. You can also help reinforce this by continued training and practice of stay, down or place cues. While you are at home with your pup you should be ignoring needy behaviors such as scratching or excessively seeking attention. Ignoring the needy behaviors will help your pup become self-sufficient and find something else to occupy their time, whether it be them laying down to relax or finding their favorite toy to play with.
One thing I always recommend to my clients is to associate your absence with a reward. The most common thing I recommend is a frozen Kong toy. Put a bit of peanut butter and maybe some treats in the Kong and freeze overnight. When you are leaving, give it to your pup. They key here is that they only ever get the Kong when you are not there. Soon your pup will be anticipating the treat rather than worrying about you leaving the home.
Another tip would be to gradually increase the time your dog is alone. Just as you do with a new puppy, start off leaving the home for a brief amount of time. This is something that needs to be started in advance so you can slowly work your pup into the new routine. Please be aware to always set your dog up for success with this. If your dog is overly anxious, start with just a few minutes and slowly increase each day. You must make sure you are not increasing the alone time too much at a time which can do more harm for your dog than help them.
I know this can be a controversial topic, but crate train your dog. Creating a safe place for your dog can really help them relax when they are left alone. If you do not want to crate your dog, consider gating them in a small space such as a laundry room or bathroom. I crate trained Sassy when she was a puppy and when she was young we moved quite a bit, but her constant was her crate. Most of the time honestly, she was never locked in, but she would lay in there while I was gone. Even now, she is 13 and I cannot put her crate away. We have it out in our family room and it is her safe place, she gets very nervous if it is not set up. Our cats have a space as well. They love the spare bedroom, we call it the cat’s room.
There are also many things you can do when you return to work to make it a bit easier for your pet. Stay calm when leaving home and returning home. Do not make a big deal out of it by spending time gushing over your pet before you leave and when you return do not immediately gush over them as well. Sassy gets her treat a few minutes before we leave and we just leave the house without saying anything. When we return we take time taking our shoes off, putting down my purse and small things before acknowledging the dog. Giving your pup too much attention when leaving and returning can heighten their anxiety around those activities. Give your pup something to do while you are gone, puzzle toys are another big thing that I recommend to clients. These can keep your pups attention but also are very mentally stimulating for them which can help reduce feelings of anxiety. Something that we do with Sassy, is we increase exercise before we leave. We take Sassy on a long sniff walk, which is very enriching for dogs, and it will tire her out. When we return she is calm and relaxed after the outing. Or you can engage your dog with vigorous play, just remember you are looking to tire them out so just tossing a ball twice will work your dog up more than tire them out. Switch up your routine when you are leaving. Your dog may start to pick up on your routine before leaving which can lead to anxiety. Do things in a different order each day so your pup does not get worked up before you depart.
If your dog is showing signs of severe anxiety, always consult a veterinarian. They may be able to recommend the best calming collars, shirts or pheromones. And in some cases they may even recommend an anti-anxiety medication.
If you are returning to the office you should consider hiring a professional dog walker. They can provide your pup with socialization, exercise and reinforcing basic skills. This will help your pet deal with your absence by giving them a break from being alone which can help with the transition. The Pet Lady offers our clients mid-day dog walks and we work Monday-Friday rain or shine to provide the stimulation and potty breaks the pups we see need. Trainers may also be a great option to help work with your pet on how to deal with their anxiety.
If you are interested in daily dog walks or pet sitting services click here or give us a call 847.802.9534
What Does Cat Care Entail? - A Pet Sitters View On Cat Care
Cats have surpassed dogs to be the commonly owned pet. As a pet sitter, most people think we mainly deal with dogs and their owners. I have to say, our client list reflects the national percentages and we have more cat clients on our list than dog clients. Cat care makes up a huge portion of the pet sitting industry, and there are many pet sitters who are cat only.
Cats have surpassed dogs to be the commonly owned pet. As a pet sitter, most people think we mainly deal with dogs and their owners. I have to say, our client list reflects the national percentages and we have more cat clients on our list than dog clients. Cat care makes up a huge portion of the pet sitting industry, and there are many pet sitters who are cat only.
So I know many people believe that cats are so independent that they may not need as many visits as a dog would. Some will want to schedule only a few visits per week if their cat has a feeder or multiple bowls of food for them to eat over a few days. At the minimum we will see cats every other day, that is far and few between and we only make exceptions if the cat is set up for success and they have a large supply of water and food for them. More commonly, we see cats daily. They not only need their food and water refreshed, but cats can get lonely.
At The Pet Lady, Ltd. we make sure to give each cat the personalized care they need or want. There are some basics that are part of our visits that we perform with each client. Firstly, we make sure all food and water are refreshed. If your pet has a water fountain or water bottle container we will always check to see if it needs to be topped off with water. All free stand water bowls are washed before they are refilled. We also make sure to wash and dry all wet food vessels and check any kibble dispensers and feeders to make sure they are full. We also scoop the litter boxes at each visit. Typically, litter boxes are scooped out once per day, but if we are visiting cats multiple times per day, we do scoop them accordingly. Cats like their boxes to be nice and tidy so we make sure they want to use their boxes and will not have to step on any waste.
The rest of our visits are personalized for each cat. Some like to play fetch with a spring or ball and we will toss it as long as your cat wants to chase! Others like a laser pointer to hunt or an electronic toy turned on to hunt, chase or bat at. Our sitters love wand toys just as much as our feline friends! All of these activities allow your cat to tap into their natural instincts to hunt. This can be very enriching for your cat along with giving them some vigorous physical activity.
Not all cats want to play on demand while we are there. We have a lot of friendly felines who just want all the rubs and cuddles. We have tons of cuddles and love to give all the pets in our care. We also will provide light grooming for any pet who wants to have a little pamper. We will brush out cats and most absolutely love it, and in return we get lots of purrs.
We love to celebrate all our clients and pamper your pets while you are away!
If you are interested in cat care services or any pet sitting or dog walking services click here to learn more or give us a call 847.802.9534
The Best Breed For Your Lifestyle
Choosing a dog can be very exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. I mean, you are committing to care for a living creature who will depend on you for their entire life. When choosing to add a dog to your family, you may have a lot of questions: “What kind of dog should I get?” “What’s the best breed for me?” “Will they be a good fit for my family?”
Choosing a dog can be very exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. I mean, you are committing to care for a living creature who will depend on you for their entire life. When choosing to add a dog to your family, you may have a lot of questions: “What kind of dog should I get?” “What’s the best breed for me?” “Will they be a good fit for my family?”
The first step to being a responsible dog owner starts before you bring your pup home. You need to seriously and thoughtfully assess your needs before committing and making a decision. So, we will talk about some things to consider before adding a pup to your family. There are also breed selector quizzes online that can point you in the direction of the breed that will work best for your lifestyle. You can just google ‘breed selector’ and tons will come up. I checked out the AKC, American Kennel Club’s breed selector and took the quiz. I talk about this a bit more in depth at the end of the blog.
Shar Pei
First, Are You Ready For A Dog?
It is critical that you fully think it through and do not make an impulse decision because the cute dog on instagram stole your heart! You must make sure you have the resources to care for a living breathing animal for their entire lives. You should make sure to become familiar with the average cost of care, not just food and treats, but veterinary care. Those bills can add up quick - which means thinking about pet insurance and pricing that out! You should consider how much time you have to be available for your dog, and many other basic elements of dog ownership.
Things to Think About Before Choosing a Breed
Ok, close your eyes and think about what your life would look like with a dog - are they small or big, active to hike with your or vegging out on the couch binging Netflix, do they want to share you with other pets or have you all to themselves, a one-dog household? What I highly suggest is not falling in love with a breed before fully understanding the characteristics of that breed. Some breeds require an involved grooming routine while others need lots of space to run around. And don’t forget each dog is an individual who may exhibit traits that are not typical to their breed. Spending time with your prospective dog before adoption will help you get to know their specific personality and feel clearer on whether that dog is a good fit for you.
Ok, so let’s get into a few breeds that may be a good fit for certain lifestyles.
Dogs for Fitness
If you love the outdoors, you might want a canine companion that shares your love for it. Just about every dog loves to get out, but breeds that LOVE long walk or vigorous exercise tend to be medium-large breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, Setters, Border Collies, German Shepards, Dalmations and Weimaraners, say that 10 times fast. Now these breeds need a constant level of exercise, so if you are not hiking that day, you need to be sure to schedule time for high intensity play or a long walk.
Dogs That Love Kids
Bernese Mountain Dog
Now this is I think the first question parents of children ask themselves when considering adding a pup to their family. While just about every kind of dog can turn out to be a great companion for a child, there are some breeds that are particularly known for their love of children. Beagles and Boxers are good for children who love to run and play. Dachshunds are great for gentle, older children. And Labs and St. Bernards adore children of all ages to play with and protect. There are also breeds you should really consider if you have children, such as herding breeds. The herding breeds can make great family dogs, but they innately want to herd and chase.
Dogs Who Are Independent
You are a busy one and always on the go. While dogs are pack animals by nature and need companionship, some dogs are more independent than others and may fit a busy lifestyle. Such as, Alaskan Malamutes, Russian Wolfhounds or Shar-Peis. I had a Shar-Pei at one point, he really was a dog who wanted to be by himself most of the time. You can also help your pup cope with you being gone by having more than one dog, and you can mix and match!
Attention Hogs and Homebodies
If you want a pup that thrives on human attention, think Pomeranian, French Bulldog, or toy Poodle. These breeds tend to need less activity throughout the day than other breeds. For a dog that loves attention and is a good watchdog or one that will bark when strangers are near, your ideal match might be a Beagle, Bloodhound or Cocker Spaniel. My pup, Sassy, is a Beagle/Jack Russel. She alerts us anytime someone walks by the house on the sidewalk!
Pups for Apartments
If you live in an apartment, you’re probably looking for a dog who doesn’t bark at every little thing and one who may not need tons of indoor space. Basenjis are famously known to be non-barking, however they are high-energy and need lots of playtime. Other breeds known to be on the quieter side include Greyhounds and English Sheepdogs, but again they tend to need good long walks and vigorous play. You also may want to steer clear of Bulldogs and Boxers, who tend to snore, and quite loud I may add.
Dogs For Those With Allergies
Bichon Frise
All dogs have a protein in their saliva and dander that some are allergic to, and there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. However, some dogs produce less dander, and others shed less and so do not drop as much dander filled fur around the house. A few dogs you should consider if you have allergies are Schnauzers, Poodles, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dogs and Doodles, such as Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Bernadoodle. While Labs, Goldens and Bernese sometimes have more dander and shed more, the Poodle in the vanity breeds reduces it and may be a good breed to consider.
Pups If You Have Issues Getting Around
Whether it’s knee pain, MS, or arthritis, you probably want a pooch who likes short walks and one that can get the exercise they need indoors. So, think big or small! Bullmastiffs and St. Bernards need little exercise as do Basset Hounds, Shih Tzus and Pekingese. Typically medium sized dogs need a lot of exercise and attention.
Dogs Who Love To Socialize
If you love to throw a party, are a habitual socializer or are looking for a love connection you may be looking for a breed who likes to go places and meet new people. People-lovers to consider include Spaniels, Setters, Goldens and Labs. Think of the dogs who always want to say hi to everyone! You may also want to consider Beagles, Huskies and Bichons. These breeds also tend to be very tolerant of people who may not be as familiar with dogs. They are patient and willing to please and very easy going.
Dogs Who Live To Walk
Do you need a bit of an incentive to get up off the couch and get outside - or perhaps you're coping with hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease. Well then you should consider Akitas, Airedales (sidenote, beautiful dogs, will walk for days if you let them) or Eskimo dogs. Smaller breeds like Pomeranian and Toy Poodles love to walk, but not very far.
Travelers
Do you travel a lot? You may want a pup to enjoy that with, if you fly a lot you may be looking for a small, easy to transport pup that will fit in a carrier in the cabin of the plane. A Yorkshire Terrier or Maltese might be a good breed. Please note, this is asking a lot of any dog, but these breeds tend to remain calm and quiet when with their people.
Soothing Stress and Depression
Whether it’s the playfulness of the Pug, the self-confidence of a Shiba Inu or the warmth of a Great Pyrenees, having the right dog in your life can help reduce and relieve stress, ease depression and overall make you happier. Add in your pups 'smile’ when they see you, their joy for life and unwavering devotion, it is no wonder that people and their pooches have loved each other's companionship for years!
Should I Get A Pure or Mixed Breed?
Now that you have an idea of what type of dog may fit your lifestyle, you now have to ask yourself: pure or mixed breed? Whether a dog is a pure breed known for specific characteristics or a mixed-breed, dogs are individuals, just like people, and can vary greatly.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
Whether you want a mixed-breed or pure, you can often find the right pip at a shelter or breed specific rescue. Shelters and rescues accept thousands of dogs of every type and temperament, so the chances of you finding your new best friend are high!
So I mentioned earlier about the breed selectors that you can find online. Again, I looked at the AKC breed selector at www.akc.org/dog-breed-selector.
German Shorthair Pointer
So the quiz was about 7 questions and each question was a very quick multiple choice. The things they asked do you have a dog or have you owned a dog before, how much time do you have each week for training, what is your home life (house, yard, apartment, etc), do you have small children, how much barking can you tolerate, tolerance to shedding and activity level. Oddly enough all the things we talked about. Honestly, I really liked these questions because hopefully they will prompt people to thoughtfully consider their answer. So what was my result? German Shorthaired Pointer! They are a medium sized dog who thrives on exercise, training and love. I’ve got to be honest, love this breed! They are great, I have a few GSP as clients, they are great with their nose, eager to please and sweet natured dogs.
If you live in the Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard or Naperville, IL communities and are in need of a dog walker or pet sitter, we would love to meet your four-legged best friend! Click here to contact us about our pet care services or call 847.802.9534
Fireworks and Pets
Fireworks have become a staple of this holiday and many others in the US. In the United States our 4th of July holiday is the number 1 day, more than any other day of the year, where the most pets go missing. It is really a sad thing for me to be saying. This is just one reason why it is always a fantastic idea to have your pet microchipped with up to date contact information as well as ID tags with up to date information on your pets at all times.
Fireworks have become a staple of this holiday and many others in the US. In the United States our 4th of July holiday is the number 1 day, more than any other day of the year, where the most pets go missing. It is really a sad thing for me to be saying. This is just one reason why it is always a fantastic idea to have your pet microchipped with up to date contact information as well as ID tags with up to date information on your pets at all times.
So let's talk a bit about why fireworks are so scary for pets.
First and foremost they are loud! Dogs and cats' hearing is much more acute than ours and they can hear sounds from much further away. Just like your dog may know before you do that a thunderstorm is coming, it is the same idea. So when there are loud booms, crackles and whistles, it can be very alarming for your pet.
Fireworks are unpredictable. As humans we know holidays such as new years, independence days and many more will have fireworks so we can be prepared. To our pets it is just another day and those fireworks come with no warning. The loud noises and flashes of lights sound and look different each time, plus come at varying intervals, so dogs and cats cannot get used to them.
Fireworks can pose a threat. The noise and unpredictability of fireworks leads many dogs to perceive them as a threat. This triggers their fight-or-flight response. Your dog may bark at the noises or try to run away and hide. He may show other signs of anxiety, too, like restlessness, panting, pacing and whining.
Fireworks can make your pet feel trapped. Fireworks are inescapable on holidays like Independence Day. So if the noises trigger your dog’s flight response, he will try to run from the threat. Unfortunately, there’s often nowhere to go, as you can still hear those loud booms indoors. This is why some pets such as indoor cats may try to escape outside to find a place they cannot hear them or a dog in a fenced yard may break free.
As you can see, pets have good reasons to fear fireworks. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help your pet feel safe and secure.
Keep your pets indoors, even outdoor pets. Even if your dog spends most of his time outdoors or you have an indoor/outdoor cat, bring him inside during firework displays. This will prevent him from running away when he feels scared, which can put him in danger.
Give your pet a safe place to go to when they get scared. If your dog is crate-trained, make his crate available, as that’s probably already a safe space for him. If not, put him in a bathroom or other small room with music or white noise to help drown out the boom of fireworks. Bringing his bed, blankets and toys into the room can make him feel more comfortable.
Try a calming wrap or thundershirt. Calming wraps, vests and shirts apply light, constant pressure. Many dogs and cats find this soothing and calming. You may find such products help in other anxiety-inducing situations, like thunderstorms. While this does not work for my dog, I do know people who have had great success with products like this.
You can try to desensitize your pet. Start working with your dog far enough in advance to desensitize him to fireworks and other loud noises. You can start this process by playing fireworks sounds on a low level while playing with your dog and giving him treats. Over time, slowly increase the sound of the fireworks during these play sessions. Eventually, your dog will associate the sound of fireworks with fun and play. You have to be very careful with this, and it takes a lot of time. You cannot rush desensitizing your pet to loud noises as it could make things worse for both them and you.
Walk your pet early in the day. If you know there will be fireworks on a particular day, they typically do not start until the sun begins to go down. Take time earlier in the day and give your dog a good long walk, this can help tire them out before celebrations begin.
Not all pets are afraid of fireworks, but it’s important to remember your pet will take cues from you. If you make a big deal out of them when he’s not scared, he may eventually develop anxiety about fireworks. So make an effort to keep your pet calm, but remember to remain calm yourself. When you understand why pets are scared of fireworks, you can better address your pet’s fears and help him stay calm.
Pet Friendly Naperville
Naperville, IL is an adorable town 28 miles west of Chicago and is also the fourth largest city in Illinois. Naperville is not only home to its large population, but home to many pets! Along with residential areas, Naperville is home to vast areas of parks and prairies making Naperville a great place for your dog. We have compiled our favorite places in Naperville to walk, run, shop and dine with your dog.
Naperville, IL is an adorable town 28 miles west of Chicago and is also the fourth largest city in Illinois. Naperville is not only home to its large population, but home to many pets! Along with residential areas, Naperville is home to vast areas of parks and prairies making Naperville a great place for your dog. We have compiled our favorite places in Naperville to walk, run, shop and dine with your dog.
Springbrook Prairie Dog Park
The almost 1,900 acre forest preserve is not only a birder’s paradise but also offers an off-leash dog park along with trails to hike and run with your dog. There are limestone paths throughout the preserve that will give you and your pup miles of sniffing and enjoying the summer blooms. Pets are not allowed on the mowed grass paths, and your pup must remain on a leash while on the trails. While strolling with your dog, watch out for pet parents on horseback! Springbrook Forest Preserve also welcomes your horse on all it’s limestone. The off-leash dog area is fully fenced in to give you and your pup the space to play and explore. You do need a Forest Preserve Permit to use the dog park and you must adhere to all rules, which can be found here. The Forest Preserve and Dog Park are open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. Please note the off- leash dog area is closed Thursday mornings for routine maintenance and cleaning.
https://www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/springbrook-prairie
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
Plan a dinner or lunch date with your dog at Lazy Dog! Dogs are welcome on the patio AND they have a menu just for your pup. Their Dog Bowls can be ordered for dine in or take out and your dog has the choice of chicken or beef. My dog knows when we say Lazy Dog or spell it out for that matter, that she is getting a special dinner. They also offer the cutest TV dinner style togo meals for humans.
https://www.lazydogrestaurants.com/
Wag ‘N Paddle
Wag ‘N Paddle is a great place to have fun and bond with your dog. They offer private swim time in their indoor swimming pools along with a 12,000 square foot indoor dog park. They also offer boarding, day care, training and space for private events. As a pet owner you are encouraged to join your pup for play and swims, but Wag ‘N Paddle always has trained staff available to make sure all pups and pup parents are on their best behavior. Before your dog can enjoy all the fun activities at Wag ‘N Paddle, they must go through a temperament evaluation to not only keep your pup safe, but all the dogs that come to play. Wag ‘N Paddle offers monthly memberships and pool passes on their website.
https://wagnpaddle.com/
Two Bostons
Two Bostons is a go to pet store offering in-store shopping, curbside pick up and delivery of your pup’s favorite foods and treats. They offer all natural foods and treats for your canine and feline family members. They also offer pet nutrition counseling to help your four legged family member get the nutrition they need to thrive.
https://twobostons.com/
Green Valley Forest Preserve
With almost 1,400 acres of preserve, Green Valley offers a great scenic place to stroll with your dog. May through October, you are able to see the skyline of Chicago from the 190 foot tall overlook. Green Valley has over 12 miles of marked trails along with an off-leash dog area. Green Valley’s off-leash dog area is over 16 acres and what we love best about this dog park is it offers separate areas for large and small dogs. You do need a Forest Preserve Permit to use the dog park and you must adhere to all rules, which can be found here. The Forest Preserve and Dog Park are open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. Please note the off- leash dog area is closed Wednesday mornings for routine maintenance and cleaning.
https://www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/greene-valley
The Pet Lady, Ltd. is proud to have served the Naperville community for the past 30 years. We would be honored to care for your pet while you are away or working from home. We offer Daily Dog Walking, Vacation Pet Sitting and Pet Taxi Services, click here to contact us for a free meet and greet with your pet!
Backyard Activities To Do With Your Dog
Summer means warm weather is here! With warm weather, I know all I want to do is be outside. I am sure you can agree and if not your dog definitely agrees with me! My dog, Sassy, loves being outside in the sun and spending the afternoon lounging and sniffing every inch of the yard. If you are spending time outside with your pup, there are any great activities that you can do to bond and reinforce skills with your dog.
Summer means warm weather is here! With warm weather, I know all I want to do is be outside. I am sure you can agree and if not your dog definitely agrees with me! My dog, Sassy, loves being outside in the sun and spending the afternoon lounging and sniffing every inch of the yard. If you are spending time outside with your pup, there are any great activities that you can do to bond and reinforce skills with your dog.
Upgrade your fetch game
Fetch is a great activity for your pup and mimics their instinct to hunt and retrieve. Tennis balls or any balls that bounce are great, they bounce in unpredictable paths and give your pup the hunt they want. Why not take it to the next level? Frisbee discs, plush toys or even rope toys can be thrown for your pup to retrieve. Mixing them up can be great stimulation for your dog. If your dog is a runner, consider a ball launcher so they can get that sprint in. There are automatic launchers out there as well, but just remember your pup might not be as interested in playing if you are not involved.
Agility Courses
When you hear agility, you may think of a dog competing in a competition course. But, any dog can benefit from a backyard agility course. Teaching your pup a new skill, such as completing an agility obstacle, and giving positive reinforcement can make your pup feel accomplished and good about themselves. Agility engages dogs in a few different ways. The equipment and coursework provide mental stimulation while teaching new tricks and skills. Agility also provides rigorous physical exercise and opportunities to use and develop a large variety of muscles. For example, if your dog likes to tunnel, a collapsible training tunnel can be great for play sessions. You can find reasonably priced agility equipment most places that sell pet products, and some of them can grow with your dog’s skill level.
Scent Work
I am a big supporter of scent work. I take my dog on scent walks where she dictates our speed and takes her time taking in all the smells. Dogs love sniffing everything and anything. Good smells, bad smells, questionable smells—each one is worthy of a lengthy inspection. Allowing your dog to sniff can provide great mental stimulation. If you want to do some scent work with your dog, leave your pup inside and hide some treats around the yard. I suggest placing them in boxes without lids. Then let your pup sniff to find them! Always give verbal praise, as petting can be distracting while on the hunt. As your pups skill progresses, put a lid on the box or switch up the places the boxes are or hide them. Scent work is very exhausting for dogs, so always give your pup breaks about every 10 minutes.
Hide and Seek
As a child, hide and seek was one of my favorite games to play with my sister. This can also be a great game to play with your pup. Hide in your yard while having another family member or friend hold your dog. Once you are hidden, call your dog's name once and….SEEK!
Splish, Splash, Water Fun!
Many dogs enjoy playing in or with water, mine is not one of them. But, many dog do! Something as simple as turning a sprinkler on can be great for your dog. Some love to chase the water and some like to try and drink it, either way they are having fun. You can also place tennis balls in a bucket of water and encourage your pup to retrieve them while the balls are bobbing up and down.
There are many fun things you and your pup can do in the yard while the weather is warm and sunny. If your pup would love some outdoor fun while you are away or busy, our sitters will come and give your pup the playtime and enrichment they need during the day. The Pet Lady, Ltd. offers enrichment visits for pups and if you are interested, give us a call! 847.802.9534 or fill out our contact form to request a meet and greet.
Warm Weather Tips for Pet Owners
Our pets look forward to warm weather just as much as we do. Summer days mean fun in the sun, outdoor hikes and rising temperatures. This time of year can also be dangerous for our four legged friends. Dogs and cats can easily become overheated, dehydrated, sunburn and dehydration. Not to mention the severe weather we can get during the months. Here are a few tips for your four legged friends for the ‘dog days’ of summer.
Our pets look forward to warm weather just as much as we do. Summer days mean fun in the sun, outdoor hikes and rising temperatures. This time of year can also be dangerous for our four legged friends. Dogs and cats can easily become overheated, dehydrated, sunburn and dehydration. Not to mention the severe weather we can get during the months. Here are a few tips for your four legged friends for the ‘dog days’ of summer.
Fleas and Ticks and Heartworms, oh my!
Preventative care is the best protection for your pets. Consult your vet in the sprung before the summer bugs arrive and implement an effective flea and tick control program. An early heartworm detection test and preventative medication will help you avoid ‘heartache’ down the road.
Summer Storms
Dog houses are a great place for your pup to find shade during those hot, sunny days. They are not safe shelters during lightning storms and high winds. During storms it is a good idea to bring all outdoor pets inside. With storms comes thunder, and many indoor and outdoor pets are afraid of thunder. Pheromones, calming music, turning the volume up on the TV or ‘thunder shirts’ may help to alleviate or reduce anxieties during storms.
Vacations
Vacationing with your pet can be fun and a great way to bond with your pet. Always plan your route ahead of time and make sure to look into pet-friendly hotels, campgrounds or rentals. Always make sure to allow plenty of time to travel, your pet will need potty breaks and time to stretch their legs. Double check all collars and leashes to make sure they are fitted properly and are in good working order. I know I have said it before, but make sure your pets ID tags and microchip are up to date with your contact information.
Water, Water Everywhere
Always make sure your pets have clean, cool water during warm weather months, even if they are inside in the air conditioning. My dog, Sassy loves ice cubes, and my cats, Regina and Phoebe, love to play with them. Adding ice to your pets water dish can be a fun treat for them. If you are traveling with your pet, always make sure you have a water bottle filled with cold water for your pet.
Auto Cautions
I cannot stress this enough, but NEVER leave your pet or any other animal for that matter in a car! Even with the windows open, the temperature in a parked vehicle can reach more than 100 degrees in a matter of minutes. Be on the lookout for coolant/antifreeze leaks as these are sweet tasting to animals, but can be fatal.
Summer Exercise
Just like your mom told you to not go swimming right after eating, you should always wait 30 to 60 minutes after feeding your pet before exercising. This can help prevent your pup from stomach pain and bloat. Be aware of hot pavement and asphalt, walk your pup in grass or keep pavement walks brief. Booties and shoes work just as well in hot weather as they do in snow and ice. Bringing your pup to the beach with you sounds like so much fun, but your pet really prefers shade to direct sunshine, especially for long periods of time. Always watch for signs of heatstroke that include: excessive panting, reddened gums, dehydration, confusion or lack of coordination. If your pet is showing those signs, get them in the shade, cool with a wet towel and consult your veterinarian.
Why not leave your dog at home with a professional pet sitter while you enjoy the hot summer sun at the beach?
Date Night With Your Dog
Now it might sound crazy to some people to have a date night with your dog….but I don’t! I think having a date night or day with your pup is a great way to show your dog how much you love them. Who doesn’t want to spend more time with your dog? So, pick a date and check out some fun date ideas with your dog in DuPage County.
Now it might sound crazy to some people to have a date night with your dog….but I don’t! I think having a date night or day with your pup is a great way to show your dog how much you love them. Who doesn’t want to spend more time with your dog? So, pick a date and check out some fun date ideas with your dog in DuPage County.
Mayslake Forest Preserve and Dog Park
Oakbrook, IL
Mayslake Forest Preserves offers 90 acres of gardens, lakes and an off leash dog area. Plus throw in the state house and you have a great place to roam with your pup with Instagram worthy selfie spots. You and your dog can take your time exploring, although you dog must be leashed, they will have fun checking out all the fun smells. There is also an off leash dog area for your dog to make friends and have fun running. Permit is required for the use of the off leash dog area.
https://www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/mayslake
Ruff Life
Elmhurst & Lombard, IL
Ruff Life is my favorite spot to find birthday treats for my dog. They are a family owned store with locations in Elmhurst and Lombard. They offer quality products with natural ingredients that will make your pup happy. They offer a variety of toys, treats, and food items that give your pet the best nutrition available. Bring your pup for a ride and pick up their favorite treat!
https://rufflifechicago.com
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
Naperville, IL
Plan a dinner or lunch date with your dog at Lazy Dog! Dogs are welcome on the patio AND they have a menu just for your pup. Their Dog Bowls can be ordered for dine in or take out and your dog has the choice of chicken or beef. My dog knows when we say Lazy Dog or spell it out for that matter, that she is getting a special dinner. They also offer the cutest TV dinner style to-go meals for humans.
https://www.lazydogrestaurants.com/
Eaglewood Resort and Spa
Itasca, IL
Take your pup with you for a relaxing night away from home. Eaglewood allows dogs and offers pet beds and food dishes for your pet to feel at home. Eaglewood has a wonderful spa, golf course and beautiful grounds. You and your pup will love exploring and relaxing on a night away from home.
https://eaglewoodresort.com/
Dog TV and Chill
Spend a night at home cuddling up with your pup. There are TV shows and apps that cater to dogs' vision that can be stimulating for your pup. While watching TV maybe have a glass of wine or a beer with your dog too. Now I am not saying pour your pup a Coors Light, but there are many different brands of wine and beer that are pet safe. Now there is no alcohol in them, since it is bad for dogs, but it is made from flavored broths. So grab a blanket, pour your pup a dog beer and relax.
Traveling With Your Pet
When you plan your vacations, do you plan them around your pet? Well, most people do. Whether you hire a professional pet sitter to care for your pet while you are away or plan to bring your pet with you; you spend a lot of time thinking about your pets needs. With the pandemic this past year, if you’re like me, you may have had a change in travel plans. Instead of leaving Illinois and seeing the states, we planned small, short getaways in an Airbnb - but only if they allowed pets! There is a lot to think about while traveling with your pets and as a pet sitter and dog owner, I know! I have compiled some tips to help you and your pet while traveling.
When you plan your vacations, do you plan them around your pet? Well, most people do. Whether you hire a professional pet sitter to care for your pet while you are away or plan to bring your pet with you; you spend a lot of time thinking about your pets needs. With the pandemic this past year, if you’re like me, you may have had a change in travel plans. Instead of leaving Illinois and seeing the states, we planned small, short getaways in an Airbnb - but only if they allowed pets! There is a lot to think about while traveling with your pets and as a pet sitter and dog owner, I know! I have compiled some tips to help you and your pet while traveling.
Make sure your pets ID tags and microchip are up to date. I know I say this a lot and if you follow me on social media, you know I am passionate about this. If you are traveling and Fido slips his leash, an up to date ID tag and microchip could be the key to reuniting you and your four legged friends.
Secure your pet in a carrier or pet seat belt. Did you pause and say ‘What? A seat belt?’ Well, yes, a seat belt. Now I am guilty of not always securing my pup in her seatbelt, when we have a short trip, but when we travel you better believe it! If there is a reason you need to slam on your brakes, your pup can become a flying object and can not only injure themselves, but you as well. Pet seat belts connect to your pets harness, it gives them enough room to sit, lay and even stand, but will keep them from flying forward in the event of an accident.
Give your pet plenty of rest stops. This should be a no brainer, pets need stops to stretch and relieve themselves just as much as we do. Some pets get anxiety while being in the car and making stops so they are able to get out and sniff to help let off some of the anxiety. I also just want to note, stay safe and keep your pets' heads in the car. I know they love it and it is cute when their lips and ears flap in the wind, but it can be dangerous.
If you are flying, book a direct flight. Flying on an airplane can be scary, I know I am not the best flyer out there. But it can especially be scary for pets, they do not understand what is going on and they CANNOT have gum to help pop their ears. Booking a direct flight can limit the amount of time your pet is on a plane or even in an airport.
Bring your pets favorite toy or blanket. My dog, Sassy, has her Yoshi toy that she loves to cuddle and play with, it is her safety net. Whenever we travel, Yoshi comes along. Bringing a toy or blanket can help ease anxiety. Being in a new environment can be stressful for pets and anything that can remind your pets of home.
4 Great Places to Hike With Your Pup in the Chicagoland Area
If you are like me, you want to spend as much time with your dog as you can. I love to hike and Sassy, my Beagle/Jack Russel mix, loves to smell and combining them makes for a fun outing the both of us can enjoy. Here is a list of some places near the Chicagoland Area you can hike with your dog.
If you are like me, you want to spend as much time with your dog as you can. I love to hike and Sassy, my Beagle/Jack Russel mix, loves to smell and combining them makes for a fun outing the both of us can enjoy. Here is a list of some places near the Chicagoland Area you can hike with your dog.
Starved Rock State Park
Ogelsby, IL
Starved Rock State Park is located in LaSalle County along the Illinois River. There are thirteen miles of hiking trails within the park and all are well marked and most are out and back so you can turn around at any time. All paths are accessible for dogs and there are places for your pup to splash in the canyon pools. While hiking within the state parks all dogs must be leashed at all times. Starved Rock can get busy during the warmer months, so if you are available for mid-week trips I would highly suggest doing so. Access to park and trails is free!
Check to see about availability of some amenities due to Covid procedures
Waterfall Glen
Darien, IL
Waterfall Glen is located in southern DuPage Country. With 11 miles of trails with waterfalls and bluffs, Waterfall Glen offers a hilly terrain great for hiking, biking or selfies with your pup! This is also a favorite spot in the winter for cross country skiers and winter walks. There are 4 trails mapped out at the preserve, but there are lots of other trails that veer off the beaten path, but are not mapped. Best part, no entry fees!
Check to see about availability of some amenities due to Covid procedures
https://www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/waterfall-glen
Schweitzer Woods
West Dundee, IL
Schweitzer Woods has over 5 acres of trails. This is also an approved off leash preserve, there are rules that must be followed, but within the boundaries your pup can explore! The property has oak forests, crop land, hay meadows and marshes. A beautiful Edwardian house and matching dog kennel are situated in the southeast corner of the property.
Check to see about availability of some amenities due to Covid procedures
Buffalo Creek
Long Grove, IL
This preserve offers 5.5 miles of gravel trails for walking, biking and cross-country skiing. Trails run through open areas within the preserve, crossing several creeks, great view of the reservoir and through a restored prairie. Dogs must be leashed along all trails but there is an off-leash area for you pup. Permits are required for the off-leash dog park, but if you want to take your pup on a nice leashed walk, there are no fees to visit this preserve.
Check to see about availability of some amenities due to Covid procedures
A Day In The Life Of A Pet Sitter
When someone says “I’m a pet sitter!” what is the first thing you picture? It is probably a picture of playing with puppies and kittens all day. Well, that is part of it. It is not all play and fun, although I will say this is the most rewarding occupation I have ever had and now I cannot think of doing anything else.
When someone says “I’m a pet sitter!” what is the first thing you picture? It is probably a picture of playing with puppies and kittens all day. Well, that is part of it. It is not all play and fun, although I will say this is the most rewarding occupation I have ever had and now I cannot think of doing anything else.
Early to Rise
One of the first things as a pet sitter is we start our days bright and early, sometimes even before 6am, just to make it to Fido in time for his morning walk. As a pet sitter we are up with the sun and making rounds to see dogs and cats while their families are out of town.
Office Time
This may not sound like the most fun or interesting part of the job, but it is a main part. Not only am I a sitter, but our staff includes five other sitters. It is all part of the job to keep schedules, contact clients and keep up with all the paperwork associated with caring for pets in our communities. One of my favorite parts of office time is creating content for our clients, the community and the social media world. I am able to share my knowledge and pet care tips with everyone.
It’s All in the Shoes
This might sound like a funny thing to talk about, but ask anyone who is on their feet all day and it’s all in the shoes. As pet sitters we are walking, sometimes running, but more importantly we are all on our feet. Even as a pet owner, it is a good idea to make sure you have good shoes to walk Spot. They will thank you at the end of their walk.
Daily Walks
A big part of pet sitting is daily walks. At The Pet Lady, we call them mid-day walks, which are what they sound like. We go from Spot to Fido to Fifi to Champ to Bella to give each pet their personalized time with their sitter. These services are typically used by pet parents who work during the day and may not have the time to let their pets out mid-day. Each pup gets their walks, cuddles, and playtime.
Clean the Litter Boxes and Feed the Ferrets
As a pet sitter it is not just about walking and playing with dogs. Each visit with a cat requires scooping the litter box. Yes, there is a lot of poop involved in the job. Cats not only need exercise, but play. Although not all animals require as much play, there is still cleaning cages, refreshing water, and preparing each pet’s meal per owner’s instructions. It does sometimes require more than scooping kibble into a bowl, certain pets require special diets.
Back to Fido
After visiting daily dogs, cats and caged animals, we go back to those pups whose owners are out of town and require multiple visits per day. Back to walk, play and definitely more cuddles for each dog in our care. Most dogs will require a minimum of 3 visits, while cats and most other animals may only need one.
It is no secret that the life of a pet sitter is a busy one! But as I mentioned before, it can be a highly rewarding one. As a pet sitter, we are able to build bonds and form caring relationships with all the pets in our care. I get soooo many doggy kisses and kitty purrs daily, that the love they show us is worth the long days and miles on foot. Every home we walk into we are greeted by happy pets who are excited to see us and happy we have returned!
At The Pet Lady, our staff loves what they do. They give up weekends and holidays to share their love with our clients’ pets. We believe that it is a privilege to be granted the opportunity to care for pets while their owners are away and we would be honored to care for your pet!
If you are going away or have a busy schedule and are in need of a pet sitter, feel free to contact us at 847-802-9534, or send us an email at info@thepetladyltd.com
9 Tips For Being A Responsible Pet Owner
What does being a responsible pet owner mean? Well there is not an exact definition, but the American Kennel Club gives us a great starting off point: “Owning a dog is not a privilege-it’s a responsibility.” No matter what type of pet you own, one thing is for sure, owning a pet comes with responsibility. Pets are not accessories or something that can be thrown aside. Pets look to us for love, care and devotion as we are typically their whole worlds. I have compiled a short list of 9 important rules I think all pet owners should live by.
What does being a responsible pet owner mean? Well there is not an exact definition, but the American Kennel Club gives us a great starting off point: “Owning a dog is not a privilege-it’s a responsibility.” No matter what type of pet you own, one thing is for sure, owning a pet comes with responsibility. Pets are not accessories nor something that can be thrown aside. Pets look to us for love, care and devotion as we are typically their whole world. You can check out AKC’s full list outlining how to be a responsible pet owner, but here I have compiled a short list of 9 important rules I think all pet owners should live by.
Commitment. When bringing a pet into your life you need to be prepared to commit to that pet for the length of their life. Adopting or purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive decision. Pets are with us through sickness and health, in good times and bad so you need to consider your ability to care for a pet during their life. You may also have to consider what type of pet is best for your space and lifestyle. I would love to have a Burnese, but our living situation is not ideal for a large dog or one that needs a lot of exercise. This may also mean having a plan in place in the event you are no longer able to care for your pet.
Food and Shelter. I mean do I need to say providing the basic life necessities is a must? Well I will, because it is! Pets will need consistent access to clean water, healthy well-balanced food, and shelter from the elements, preferably in a home. It is known that pets who are kept in homes live longer lives than those who are kept in yards or outdoor enclosures. When considering what to feed your pet, look to a veterinarian for recommendations and make sure your pet is getting a balanced diet. Some may choose to supplement their pet’s food with human food, Pet PawCast, a podcast, has a great episode about how to knowledgeably supplement your pet’s diet.
Health and Care. Just like you and me, regular preventive care is key to helping your pet live a long, happy life. I recommend starting a relationship with a vet early on. This is beneficial to keep up with vaccinations, hygiene and grooming needs along with seasonal issues such as fleas and ticks. Your veterinarian will be there when your pet ages and help keep them comfortable. Before bringing a pet into your home make sure you are able to budget for veterinarian care as well as any emergencies that may pop up.
Spay and Neuter. Don’t contribute to the nation’s or world’s, for that matter, overpopulation issue. Until every homeless pet has a home, there is really no need for companion pets to reproduce. There are some breeds where it is recommended to wait until the pet is at full maturity before spaying and neutering, but once they reach maturity it is your duty as a responsible pet owner to have your pet fixed.
Training and Proper Socialization. Behavioral issues are the number one reason pets are surrendered. Making training a part of your everyday life for your pet is not only good for your pet, but good for your relationship with your pet. Teaching your dog basic commands will ensure they behave and know what is acceptable behavior and what is not. Training cats, yes cats are trainable, can keep them off certain surfaces or some even train their cats to use the toilet! Proper socialization will ensure that your pet is confident and secure in their world. If you are not sure where to start with training and socialization it is always best to consult a trainer.
Exercise and Enrichment. Again, just as humans need exercise to stay healthy, pets need it as well. It helps keep their muscles, heart and immune system in tip-top shape. Along with keeping up with your pet’s physical health, you need to pay attention to their emotional health. Pets are naturally social creatures and ignoring your pet can harm their mental state. So cuddle up with your four legged friend or take them for a nice long sniff walk. We talked about how to give your dog the best walk in our last blog post; check it out for great tips.
Identification. Make sure your pet is properly identified. Make sure they are wearing ID tags with updated contact information. You should also consider microchipping your pet. Once done, make sure to register their chip and keep that information up to date. This is important for dogs since they tend to be outdoors more than cats. However, if you have a cat who likes to try to sneak out the door, having ID tags and a microchip could bring you and your fur-friend back together if they were to get out.
Preparedness. This is something I think a lot of pet owners overlook at first. If you live anywhere there are natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, fires or earthquakes you need to have a disaster plan in place. You need to make sure you include your pet in those plans and not only have go bags for humans but for your pet as well. Within your pet’s necessary items you should include a copy of vaccination records and a current photo of your pet with family members. In the event you are evacuated and you and your pet are separated, you need to make sure you are able to prove they are your fur-baby.
And most importantly....
Love. Show your pet you love them each and every day. We are blessed with the unwavering companionship pets provide and must understand you are your pet’s whole world. Our pets are in tune with us and live for our happiness; as pet parents we have to work hard to do the same for them.