Getting a puppy during COVID is a great idea; as long as you are prepared. While us humans are being relegated to staying home, we may need a little extra companionship. And a puppy checks all the boxes to make us feel a little better about being at home. However, if you’ve never raised a puppy before, there are a few things you’ll need to be prepared for your new family member and house mate.
Things You’ll Need when Getting a Puppy During COVID
Aside from time, love and patience, here are a few things you’ll need after getting a puppy during COVID.
Selecting a Collar
We recommend selecting a comfortable and adjustable nylon collar that remains on your pup at all times. This type of collar can be adjusted in size as your puppy grows. There are even a few different colors to choose from.
A Sturdy Leash
As you get started, we recommend a leather leash to ensure that you have control of your new puppy. They are really wiggly at this young age. Leather leashes are strong and durable, especially for a new puppy. As he/she gets older you may need to upgrade depending on how big and strong they get.
Puppies often like to play tug-of-war with their leashes
Harness – for Puppy and Adult Dog
Training your puppy to walk with a leash can be a little tricky. One way to ease your new pal into the experience is using a harness (instead of just collar and leash). You can find a bevy of harnesses sized just right for your puppy.
As your puppy gets older and more comfortable, upgrading to an adult dog harness will help with car rides and brisk walks.
Puppy and Dog Food
Getting a puppy during COVID from a shelter is a great plan. Many rescue groups start their puppies on Kirkland Puppy Formula dog food. There are also several other options you may want to consider. If getting out during COVID is an issue, Chewy.com delivers to your door. As always, talk to your veterinarian about food quality and what’s best at each stage of your dog’s life.
Dog Bowls for Food and Water
Ceramic Food Bowls Can Be Very Stylish
Choose a space in your home for your pup’s food and water bowls. Placing them on an easy to clean floor surface is best. These guys tend to get a little messy. We recommend either metal or ceramic bowls. Metal bowls are easier on maintenance but can be loud for a messy eater. There are usually more stylish options available in a ceramic style. However, ceramic can crack and break. We do not recommend plastic bowls.
Variety of Toys
When getting a puppy during COVID your options for social interaction may be limited. We recommend providing several toys for your pup to keep that need to chew satisfied. A Kong toy that can be filled with treats is great for that. Kong offers several different shapes and sizes.
Keep in mind that just like with a baby, you’ll want to purchase puppy safe toys. And, of course, remember that most pups like to play with balls. We recommend the Orbee-Tuff LED ball. Tennis balls get dirty and can be messy.
This list is not exhaustive when getting a puppy during COVID, however, it will get you started.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
In our new world of pandemic induced staying at home, separation anxiety is new for some pets. Has your dog gotten used to you being home all day? Has your cat enjoyed all the extra time she gets to lay in your lap? If you are seeing some new behaviors in your pets as you prepare to leave your house or while you are away, read on.
separation anxiety and destructive behavior
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a sign of distress in your pet. It is triggered when a dog is upset because of separation from their pet parents, or the people they are most attached to. Did you know that the anxiety is so extreme for some pets that they try hurt themselves trying to get out of the house? You may notice that your pet becomes agitated as you prepare to leave the house. They understand what is about to happen.
Some dogs will try to prevent their favorite people from leaving. Then, right after their pet parents leave the house the separation anxiety becomes so bad they act out. For instance, some animals will bark incessantly. Others will begin destroying objects around the home. Furthermore, some will urinate or defecate in the house. Pets are not equipped the way humans are to cope with missing someone they love.
Did You Know: Separation anxiety is often more prevalent in dogs who have spent time in a shelter? Being surrendered by their family and left behind at a shelter leaves a lasting impression for many animals.
Treating Mild Separation Anxiety in Pets
The goal in treating this reaction is teaching them to enjoy or at least tolerate being left alone.
First, speak with your veterinarian to rule out any other underlying issues. Then, take action to counter-condition the behavior.
This means focusing on developing an associate with being left alone with good things. For instance, their favorite food or treat. What does that mean? Try offering your pet a treat puzzle each time you leave the house. For example, try giving your dog a puzzle stuffed with something really tasty, like peanut butter, spray cheese, small training treats, frozen banana, or canned dog food. Some toys can even be froze. This makes getting the treat take even more of your dog’s time. Most importantly, remove these toys as soon as you return home so that your dog only has access to them when he’s by himself. They’ll begin to associate something fun with you getting ready to leave the house and their time alone.
Puzzle toys help keep your pup busy while you’re away
Dogs with more severe cases of separation anxiety may require a different approach. Speak with your vet for ideas and treatment plans.
Going Back to Work
As the world, and businesses, begin to get back to normal, your pet’s schedule is being disrupted again. If you find yourself going back to the office one day or five days per week, this will trigger more separation anxiety episodes.
When you can, try to take your pet to work with you. Since this is not realistic for many, hiring a pet sitter will help with their anxiety. Believe it or not, most pets suffering from separation anxiety are calmed as long as someone, even if not you, are with them.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
You may be thinking that pet sitting is just opening the door, petting the dog on the head and letting him out for a potty break, right? Maybe in the old days when pet owners went on vacation and asked a neighbor to look in every now and then. Today, however, our cherished members of the family are being rewarded with the care and love of professional pet sitters.
Loving Care from a TLC Pet Sitter
What to Expect
At TLC House & Pet Sitting Service our sitters visit dogs up to three times a day and cats once or twice a day. We provide love and attention along with providing fresh food, water and exercise. TLC includes these services and much more.
We provide experienced sitters that know what to do while looking after your pet’s individual needs. When required, we administer medicines, both orally or by injection (for insulin), according to your instructions with prescribed dosages. All the care you provide your pet is performed in your absence by our sitters/walkers on your pet’s regular schedule. It’s not exactly the same as when you’re home, but we get pretty close. At TLC, we know that your pet misses you, and we are mindful of that bond.
We will walk dogs privately in your neighborhood after learning your dog’s commands and leash etiquette with your consultation. We dispose of all dog poop and cat litter boxes. If your pet requires overnight attention we will be there for that as well. We prepare detailed reports on your pet during your absence – and we can check in with nervous parents!
While we are visiting TLC sitter/walker do those little things to keep your house looking lived in – hauling trash cans to and from the curb, bringing in the mail, alternating lights, picking up newspapers and watering plants. But even with all that we never forget the pat on the head – just like the old days.
Learn More About Our Services
If you’d like to learn more about our services, please visit our website.
Canine social anxiety is a real problem for more dogs than you’d imagine. Therefore, if you have ever been asked to start your puppy on socialization, it is in part due to the debilitating effects of social anxiety. Dogs who were not socialized as puppies can have some degree of this anxiety. Anxiety is typically seen in a more devastating degree in dogs that have had no human contact. Dogs from puppy mills, or those with no human contact can have extreme social anxiety.
The Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety appears in dogs just like it does with humans. It can come from a fear of the unknown or even fear after a traumatic event. The source of anxiety is the same, no matter which circumstance he is under, and that source is terror. If your dog is experiencing social anxiety, then you will know based on his behavior.
Behaviors exhibited during a canine social anxiety attack could mean a total shut down of the dog’s emotions. This is similar to that of a human dissociating, or turning off their ability to function in reality. Basically, a dog having a total melt down with anxiety will hunker down to the ground, walk slowly, keep his tail tucked while refusing to acknowledge or obey you. This is because he is terrified. In these situation, your pup’s mind is shutting off to protect itself emotionally from becoming more traumatized.
Other anxiety symptoms can be excessive or constant whining, barking and even growling. Your dog, when faced with his trigger will do whatever he thinks he needs to do to protect himself. As such, he could lash out at you or simply shut down. This makes your job as his caretaker far more difficult.
Help Your Dog Cope with Canine Social Anxiety
Social anxiety in dogs is not something that can be trained out of him in a day, week or even a month. It is a fighting battle that can take many months or even years with consistent help and training. You can start your anxious dog down the path of healing his social anxiety with counter conditioning. This is the training tactic that helps change the way your dog feels about his trigger. If your dog was human, he would go to therapy. However, since he is your furry best friend he is relying on you to help him through this.
Don’t be afraid or wait to contact a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist for help. Sometimes, dogs just need time and patience while other times they have real work in front of them that requires professional help. When it doubt about canine social anxiety, always ask a professional! Meanwhile, you can start by giving your dog a high value food treat whenever he sees his trigger. This may, however, only work for dogs who’s anxiety is not very severe. If your dog’s anxiety is so dire that he shuts down, you will need to start small and in a space he is comfortable and familiar with. Never punish a dog for anxiety, no matter how frustrated you get. Remember, he is terrified! If he shuts down, take the rest of the day off. Let him then settle in the most comfortable place he knows.
Train with Kindness, Not Punishment
While some may encourage you to punish a scared dog, in reality it only makes your dog’s behaviors worse. It can even lead to him lashing out and biting you or someone else. Instead, take it slow and stay within his threshold. If you don’t push him, he will gain more confidence. Then, he will let you know when it’s time to take the next step.
Doggy Therapy
For canine social anxiety, you are your dog’s helper. He cannot call a dog trainer nor ask for your help. He does not know why he feels the way he does, and he is counting on you to help solve his problems. Do your anxious dog a favor and go slow. Always provide praise and positive reinforcement for good behavior. And never give your dog a reason to be anxious!
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
Adopting a dog from a shelter or a breed rescue is an excellent way to find a pet, plus you’re saving a life in the process. However, there are a few things that you should avoid when adopting that new dog for your family.
What to Avoid When Adopting a Dog #1-5
#1 – Aggression With People
If the dog shows any type of aggression, no matter the age, do not adopt it. Although some may take issue with this advice, my stance is based on decades of experience. There are just too many sweetheart dogs out there that need good homes. Your desire to rescue a dog does not have to come with the burden of caring for a dog that you already know is aggressive.
#2 – The Fearful Dog
Quite often I find new dog owners that have adopted a dog that appeared to have fearfulness. Some of these adopted dogs were puppies. I’ve had clients tell me that when adopting their puppy, the observed the litter while seven of the pups ran up to them to play and one little scared puppy sat in the corner. You’d be amazed by how many people take home the afraid puppy, out of shear compassion. However, my advice again would be to pass on adopting a fearful dog. Although it’s possible to help a scared dog interact like normal dogs, it’s unlikely. So my suggestion is to pick one of those outgoing puppies, one that adds to the love and overall happiness of the home. Knowing what to avoid when adopting a dog can go a long way for long-term happiness.
This is the opposite of what to avoid when adopting a dog. If you find one that will do this — bring him home for life!
#3 – Dog Aggression
If you already have a dog at home and want to add a new dog to your pack, then adopting a dog that is not dog-aggressive is a must. It’s always a good idea to introduce your new dog to your existing dog in a strange environment not at your home. So keep in mind that the first meeting should be at the local park or out for a walk. Make sure that the adoption agency is willing to take back the new dog if he shows any aggression with your existing dog at home.
#4 – An Unwell Dog
Needless to say, you do not want to accept a sick or unhealthy dog especially if you already have a dog at home. I do realize that there are those of you who are real rescuers and nurturers that will accept the challenges of caring for a sick dog in order to nurse it back to health. However, for the average pet owner, that may be more of a task than they want to take on. On your list of what to avoid when adopting a dog, this is a big one.
#5 – The Unsocialized Dog
When adopting your dog, keep in mind that the period of socialization is from birth to 20 weeks old. If you are adopting a puppy, you have to accomplish that before the five-month mark. If you are considering a puppy that has been at a shelter its entire life and has not been properly socialized that could be a mistake that you will have to live with for years, unless there is still time to do it before the 20 week mark. On the other hand, if you’re choosing an older dog, you’ll be able to tell if he’s been socialized properly by his attitude around people and other dogs.
Knowing what to avoid when adopting a dog is priceless. Adopting a dog can be a fantastic way to select a new best friend. Just take your time and find the right dog that suits your lifestyle and your expectations. When you follow this simple advice, you and your new best buddy will have a happy future together.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
Are there rules of dog owner etiquette? You betcha.
We’ve all experienced the awkwardness of a poorly behaved dog. Whether it’s in public or in someone’s home, it’s hard to know what to do. Do we say something? Do we pretend it’s not happening? As a dog owner, it is a good idea to teach your pup to practice their doggy manners. Not sure what this means? We compiled a list for you. These will help you be well on your way to being a good dog parent who practices their dog owner etiquette.
Is Your Dog Jumping On People?
This rule is the one that is most often broken. Yep, you walk into a home and here comes the dog, jumping all over you. Practicing good dog owner etiquette means knowing how to stop this behavior. Some people say it’s okay because they are dog lovers but not everyone wants a dog jumping all over them. In some cases, these exuberant dogs actually knock people down. Depending on the person’s age, this could be dangerous.
So how do you keep it from happening? Put the dog on leash, so he cannot get to the person entering through the door. In fact, teaching your dog to do a sit /stay while on the leash really comes in handy. Eventually, once the proper door behavior has been learned, you may no longer need to use the leash.
Is Your Dog Barking Excessively?
If you have ever been within earshot of a non-stop barking dog, you know excessive barking can be a real annoyance. If you are unable to keep your dog from barking consider making some adjustments for those around you.
For instance, we should all try to be good neighbors and bring our dogs in the house. This is especially appreciated during the evening so that our dogs are not disturbing the peace. If you know a neighbor sleeps during the day, consider keeping your dog indoors throughout the day as well. If necessary, crate your dog, and the neighbors will love you.
How Do Walks Impact Dog Owner Etiquette?
Did you know that dogs that are taken for daily walks will be less likely to feel a need to release pent-up energy in unacceptable ways such as excessive barking of jumping? Even more, if they get used to a regular walk routine they’ll generally be calmer throughout the day.
Are You Allowing Your Dog To Run Free
Unless you live in a very remote area your dog should be within your control or yard at all times. This means on a leash or in your fenced yard. Allowing your dog to run loose in most areas is not only against the law, it is also very dangerous for your dog. Thousands of dogs a year are run over while roaming the streets. A dog owner that cares for his dog will never allow his dog to run loose. If your dog shows any type of aggression while running loose, you are vulnerable to a tremendous amount of liability, should your dog happen to bite a person or another dog.
Picking Up the Poop
One of the fundamental rules of dog owner etiquette is pick up after your pup.
This issue is a real problem for a large number of homeowners. You’ve seen it, someone walking their dog and allowing them to poop on someone else’s property without scooping it up. Surprisingly, this has become such a problem in some communities that all dogs in those communities are swabbed for DNA. Any waste material that has not been picked up is checked with the DNA on file, and the offending owner can be fined up to $500. So, bag the poop to keep your neighborhood clean (and keep neighbors happy with you).
Need Help with the Behavioral Issues?
Practicing good dog owner etiquette will provide a better sense of community for all dog owners and homeowners alike. However, if you have tried working on their barking or jumping and still need some help, fear not. There are several resources to help you with your pet and encouraging him to do his best. This article by the ASPCA helps you find the behavioral help you may need.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
Do you groom your dog at home? Ever wonder how to keep your dog calm during grooming? Well, just like humans, they get nervous sometimes. And because dogs need to be properly groomed, whether at home or at a shop, these tips may be handy to know.
If you want to groom your pup yourself, being mindful of how you can make the process enjoyable for your furry friend will go a long way for them. While it’s true that your pet is naturally submissive to you as their owner, using this privilege to force your dog to be groomed can backfire.
To help your dog remain calm and enjoy their grooming we’ve put together a short list of tips for you. If you have some other suggestions, please be sure to add them in the comments for other pet owners.
Allow
Your Dog to Observe the Grooming Products
Dogs are instinctively observant. A sure way to frighten them is by surprising them with grooming products they never saw or heard before.
To keep your dog calm during grooming, introduce all of your grooming products to your dog before their grooming day. If you’re using clippers, turn them on so your dog can hear how they sound. Allow them to walk away when they want to.
If you’re using other products like shampoos or rinses, have them smell these items to increase their familiarity.
Play
Soothing Music
Interestingly, dogs are affected by music.
Playing soothing music will help your dog focus and stay calm throughout the
grooming process.
Classical music or jazz will lower your pet’s heart rate and keep them relaxed. You can even take it a step further by having lower lighting in the room to keep your canine friend at ease.
Play
With Them First
A dog that is tired after playtime is less likely to fight you during grooming. Playing catch for about an hour or going for a long walk is a great way to tire out your dog and keep him or her relaxed. Similarly, it may tire you out, too.
Once they’ve calmed down, it becomes much easier to
groom them without the whining or growling.
Take Period Breaks
Dogs, especially puppies, can become confused or frightened during grooming. If your pet requires extended grooming, taking short breaks mitigates stress.
When you first groom your dog, it may take several hours. However, the process will become easier when they (and you) become used to the process.
Know
When to Stop
Sometimes, your dog will have had enough of grooming. And that’s ok. This is a great time to call it a day and stop.
If your dog is continually whining and growling at you, their stress levels will become too high. Force-grooming your dog and/or shouting at them to be quiet won’t make them submissive to grooming.
If your dog has had enough, stop and allow them to
gather themselves and calm down.
Reward Them When Still and Calm
When your pet is still and calm, reward them for their behavior with a treat. This will teach them to remain calm during grooming and make the process more convenient for you both.
Smearing peanut butter on a spoon is a trick many people use. Allowing their dog to lick it during grooming is a distraction for them. As a result, grooming is easier.
Finally, enjoy your time together.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
When we think about taking our dog to a dog park we begin to conjure ideas of our pet frolicking with other dogs. We tend to believe that this will be a great experience for them and that they’ll be a happier dog for having had the experience. This couldn’t be more untrue. Furthermore, we warn against taking your dog – and especially a puppy – to a dog park!
Hazards and Risks at a Dog Park Outweigh the Benefits
In March of 2018, in California, a small dog was attacked by two larger dogs at Lodi park and was fatally wounded. While this is an extreme example, it is not uncommon for injuries to occur to dogs at dog parks. Injuries can sometimes occur because of the co-mingling of large and small dogs. In other cases, dog fights erupt between same-sized dogs as they try to assert themselves. If your pet is not well trained for the type of interaction that occurs in a dog park, altercations will occur.
Like People, Not All Dogs Want to Be Social with Everyone They Meet
For some dogs, taking them to a dog park can make them extremely anxious. It is like being afraid of the water and being pushed into the pool for them.
Like people, some dogs prefer the comfort of familiar faces or only in small numbers. Just as we do not chat with everyone we meet, our dogs do not have to play with every dog they meet. The pressure to do so can make them uncomfortable or aggressive. Rather than place our pups in this position, find a more suitable alternative. For instance, schedule a few minutes with the neighbor’s dog every week. This may be all the socialization your dog needs- or wants. Older dogs, especially, tend to prefer to go without playful interaction with other dogs.
The goal is to ensure that your dog feels relaxed and can leave at any time they start to feel uncomfortable. Other options include pet socialization classes where the number of dogs is limited and it is monitored in a controlled environment by pet professionals.
Germs, Illness, and Parasites
If that doesn’t get your attention, we’re not sure what will. Did you know that viruses can live in the soil of the dog park for an extended period of time? This is true for any soil. This makes dog parks a veritable breeding ground for all types of viruses and parasites. Because shot records are not required at the door, your pup could be mingling with unvaccinated or unhealthy animals. This is especially dangerous to a new pup who has not yet completed his full schedule of vaccinations. This pup is therefore more susceptible to the germs. Safer spaces for your pets include training classes, doggy day care, or boarding kennels where shot records are required prior to entry.
Anti-Training
The energy in a dog park can often be frantic and chaotic. It doesn’t take long for a dog to get reinforcement from the experience that this behavior is acceptable. This teaches them that their owner has little or no control over them. If you’ve visited a dog park, you’ve noticed at least one frustrated owner trying to get their dogs attention. It is usually to no avail. This behavior can often carry over at home. Undoing what the dog park has taught your dog can be frustrating for both you and your dog.
Elevated Protective Behaviors
Does your dog guard their toys? Do they maybe even guard you a little? Does your pet tend to want to keep the water bowl to themselves? Is your dog the bully of the playground? Dogs can be instinctual when it comes to guarding their resources. If another animal tries to take what they believe is theirs it can result in a combative response.
Lasting Trauma
A young dog may feel long-term affects of an unpleasant experience at a dog park. If they are attacked, especially unprovoked, your dog may begin exhibiting aggressive behavior of their own. As a human, you may witness what you believe to be a small event happening to your dog that unexpectedly has lasting affects. These incidents are likened to childhood trauma in humans. Similar to someone playfully jumping out from behind a corner and yelling “Boo” to a small child who is too young to understand that won’t always happen again, but feels forever as if it will.
Inattentive Owners
All types of dogs come to a dog park. The same is true for the owners. There are some great dog owners who watch after their pets. They keep an eye on them, break up incidents before they escalate, pick-up their messes, watch for inappropriate play or behavior, and are simply aware of their animals. On the other hand, some owners spend more time on their phones or talking to other people to be bothered with their pet. In these cases, their dog is left unchecked and can often create the problems mentioned above that you and your dog are trying to avoid.
To be safe, we recommend that you skip the dog park altogether and find better, safer alternatives for your pet.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
At TLC, we know that your dogs are more than just pets; they are family members. And because you want to care for them like one of the family, you do what you can to make sure that they look and feel their best. Nail clipping for dogs is more than just a manicure for them. Learn why dogs need to have their nails clipped and common mistakes to avoid at home. Also, you can trust most professional groomers to offer nail clipping for dogs as part of their services.
Why Clip Your Dog’s Nails?
Did you know that nails that go unclipped can cause your dog pain? Many veterinarians warn that unclipped nails can turn their paws into a splayed foot which reduces traction. Unclipped nails for extended periods of time can also lead to deformed feet or injure the tendons causing pain.
New Clippers
If this is your first time clipping your dogs nails, purchasing clippers meant for dogs only is your fist step. Never use clippers meant for people. When searching for a pair of clippers, find a pair that is comfortable and easy to control. There are clippers available that are motorized, which can sometimes decrease the amount of time spent on each nail and make the process a bit smoother for your furry friend. Grinding your dogs nails also mitigates the chance that you’ll cut them to the quick (which causes bleeding). Take a look here at the 2018 list of best nail grinders for dogs.
Nice And Slow
Don’t rush through the process of clipping your dog’s nails. If you do, then there is a chance that you could tear the nails or clip them too short. This is one of the important nail clipping tips for dogs because cutting the nails too short can sometimes cause excessive bleeding. Make your dog feel like he is special for getting his nails clipped instead of making it seem like a chore or a common task. Prop your dog’s paws on your leg to allow for as much comfort as possible. An idea to consider is to let someone hold a spoon of peanut butter for your dog to lick on while you’re clipping his nails. Massage your dog’s legs to relieve some of the stress in the muscles, making it easier to approach the paws while clipping the nails.
Offer A Soothing Touch
Before using clippers, you can place an item that has a similar feeling on your dog’s paws. This simple action can get your dog accustomed to something being close to the nails and the feet. Try to let your dog get used to the sound associated with the clippers by squeezing them nearby, getting closer to your furry friend until you’re able to gently clip each nail.
For More Information
If you have questions about nail clipping for dogs or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC Pet Sitter. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com.
Looking for some fun things to do with your dog? Think you’ve tried it all? We’ve compiled a list of activities that should keep you both pretty busy! This list will help with training, exercise, and overall fun for you and your dog.
Agility– in, out, over and through this sport is all about working as a team
In today’s busy world, it often becomes difficult to care for your pet the way you’d want to. So enters a positive alternative; a doting pet sitter. Choosing a pet sitter that your dog will love may seem daunting. With the right tools, you’ll be all set to make a choice that your furry friend will love. Read on for what to consider when looking for a pet sitter.
1. Have a Background Check of the Potential Sitters
You are looking for someone to take care of your pet in your absence, and you have to make sure you leave this responsibility to someone who is responsible enough to treat your pet as their own. Before hiring a pet sitter, ask around about the sitters offering their services in the vicinity. If they have an online page, look for testimonials and reviews by their previous clients. Moreover, make sure you meet them once or twice in person before you finally hand them the responsibility to take care of your pet. Do not hire a sitter who has no prior experience with animals because even a minor careless act from their side can be dangerous for your pet.
2. See How Resourceful They Are
See how knowledgeable your pet sitter is and we’re not talking about the general knowledge here only. A good pet sitter must have thorough knowledge about animal care, with a good understanding of ergonomics. Ask your pet sitter if they know the safety measures to be taken in emergency or if they know where to take the pet if something goes wrong with it. Check if they have a sound understanding of animal psychology to respond to your pet’s separation anxiety or changes in its moods. If you feel like the sitter has enough knowledge to be trusted, hire them.
3. Do They Have a Pet Friendly Home
Leaving your pet in someone’s care is not an easy thing for a pet owner. Not being sure if your pet would be safe while you are away can add extra mental burden. A pet friendly home lessens that burden by assuring you pet security. Make sure the sitter’s house is equipped with all essential safety measures for the pet. If there is a yard, make sure it is pet-protected with high fences and no loose wires hanging here and there. As for interior, it would be better if there is paw-friendly flooring and small carved out spaces for pets to hide in, otherwise chances are they will end up stuck behind the washing machines, sofas and what not.
4. They Should Genuinely Love Animals
Dogs have a strong sense of judgment and they would know who is friendly enough to take care of them. Dogs can sense it on people if they have pet aversion and they will act distant around them. When choosing a pet sitter, make sure they genuinely love pets, especially cats and dog. Also, make sure is the sitter is patient with the animals. You do not want someone to scare off your pet while you are away.
Buying a new pet? Introducing a new pet into your family is the same as bringing a new family member into your house. Pets do not just occupy space in your house but also in your daily life. You become responsible for your dog. This includes among your family members, your friends and the community you live in. That is why your choice of pet matters. When buying a pet, impulses and your love for them is strong. However, make sure you give them a good healthy life and a comforting home. There are many things to be considered before buying a new pet or adopting an animal.
Are your family members and the choice of your pet compatible?
The very first thing to consider is, whether the other family member in your house or anyone who shares the room with you is okay with having animals around them. Ask them if they have any special allergies with cats or dogs or any animal in general. If you have kids at home, make sure they are friendly and welcoming towards pets. This is important because your pet will not only be sharing its life with you, but also with everyone else living with you.
Is your house compatible with the choice of your pet?
Your pet may not have a say in choosing where you live, but before bringing a pet home, it is important to make sure whether your place would be suitable for them or not. If you are getting a dog, you would have to make sure your house has enough space for them to play around, run and have their own little space.
You also have to make sure your house is fenced, so your pets do not get out. Moreover, the temperature of that place should also be considered. If you live in a place with a hot climate, it is essential for you to make a shady and cool living area for your pet so they can remain unaffected by the heat.
Does your community or your apartments allow pet?
It is understandable that you cannot get a pet if your housing community or your living facility does not allow pets in homes. There might be some exceptions even in such buildings, and they may allow some kind of animals as pet. So, it is better that before buying pet, you discuss it with your property owner about the rules and regulations related to keeping pets in your building.
Is your lifestyle compatible with your choice of pet?
We live in times where most of our time is spent outside of the home. We do not really have much time on our hands left by the end of the day and time is the most important thing your pet would want from you. Dogs are very friendly and they need you around them most of time. Therefore, if you know you cannot make time for them, you should not adopt a pet. However, if you already have decided to get one, then make sure you have someone at home to take care of it and take it on walks everyday in your absence.
Questions About Buying a New Pet?
If you have any questions about buying a new pet, or other questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC Pet Sitter. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com.
