Empty the Shelters is an ongoing movement by Bissell. Yes, the Bissell that sells vacuum and carpet cleaners.
Are you looking for a way to help homeless animals, but don’t yet know how? Bissell Pet Foundation may be what you’re looking for.
The mission of the foundation is finding loving, forever homes for every pet. Bissell sponsors these Empty the Shelters adoption events that take place across the country. This allows prospective pet owners the opportunity to adopt a pet for a reduced fee. Bissell Pet Foundation is sponsoring the remaining cost.
Events
In October 2020, the national Empty the Shelters event tallied more than 3,900 pets adopted and more than 7,800 lives saved. Bissell teamed up with 160 shelter partners in 33 states (including Arizona). To support animal lifesaving efforts, families either chose adoption, fostering, or making a contribution to the Empty the Shelters fund.
Arizona – 2018
In 2018, Bissell Pet Foundation saw a need in the Phoenix area shelters. Summer heat continued to rise putting pets at risk. Also, experiencing a monsoon, and hundreds of pets running away during a July 4 event required a response. Therefore, Bissell Pet Foundation hosted two events that year. In July and August they saw 1,134 adopted pets and 2,268 lives saved. The shelters that participated were Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA, Arizona Humane Society, and Maricopa County Animal Care & Control.
Bissell Pet Foundation – Empty the Shelters
The Bissell Pet Foundation exists to assist animal welfare organizations. They aim to help reduce the number of animals in shelters and rescues through pet adoption, spay/neuter programs and microchipping.
Bark Friday Auction: November 6 – 27
As you can imagine, the pandemic created some hurdles for the foundation. In response, Bissell is hosting an event to help homeless pets to find a loving home. We hope you’ll be encouraged to adopt during the holidays to provide a loving fur-ever home.
This three-week-long online auction is allowing shoppers to browse over 45 specialized items. These range from gift cards to gift baskets (for humans the pets). Their slogan is “Bid Away to Make a Homeless Pet’s Day”. Check out their website here.
If you’d like to see where Bissell is making an impact in your state, visit this link here and filter results by state. Above all, we hope you’ll consider getting involved.
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.
Hire a professional pet sitter because it provides peace of mind. A professional pet sitter does more than simply feed your pet. A trusted, reliable pet sitter is responsible for providing all of the love, attention and care that your pet needs, as though you never left home. Your pet’s diet, health, safety, and happiness are important, even while you are away. This is a top priority for a TLC Pet Sitter.
Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Professional Pet Sitter:
Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter Has Many Benefits
It’s a far superior alternative to boarding.
Pets are safer in their own familiar environment.
Staying in the comforts of home will provide for a healthier, less stressed pet.
If asked, your pet would say they are much happier eating and playing at home.
The services are tailored to your needs.
It’s convenient.
Hire a Professional Pet Sitter Because the care provided is quality, personal care.
As a bonus, your sitter will watch over and care for your home personally.
You don’t want to burden your friends with the job, and can you even trust them?
You will have an immeasurable peace-of-mind in knowing your pet is well cared for.
We are a Trusted Pet Sitter
Taking the time to find a trustworthy pet sitter will do more than keep your pet and home safe, it will give you peace-of-mind, so you can enjoy your time away. At TLC House and Pet Sitting Service, our staff follows your specific house and pet care instructions explicitly. You will come back to a home that looks and feels as though you never left. For your pet’s and your peace of mind, we recommend that you hire a professional pet sitter.
Oh, the joys of a hyperactive dog. And by joy, we mean challenges. Have you ever met a dog that seems to have springs on his paws instead of toes? You can envision him now, jumping up and down tirelessly with never ending energy! These dogs usually have the label of hyperactive because they cannot stop moving! They develop undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, chewing and destructive habits. In extreme cases, they may even begin chewing at their own skin in an attempt to burn energy. It may seem like a never ending task to help these dogs, but it can be done!
The Tired Dog, The Good Dog
The age old saying, a tired dog is a good dog is not one to be argued with. A dog who has burned up his energy just wants to rest and relax. When a dog is tired, he doesn’t want to get into trouble or cause problems. For a hyperactive dog, however, becoming tired may be a difficult thing to accomplish! To figure out why your dog is hyper, first look at him with a fresh set of eyes!
What breed is your dog? Is your dog a working breed? This could be a Border Collie or even a German Shepherd Dog. If so, then you could find yourself with a bored dog. Dogs in general are smart. However, dogs bred to work or hunt are highly intelligent. They need a job to do! A job can be anything from learning tricks to running an agility course. There are several activities and sports you can play with your dog. Mixed breeds, purebreds and purposely bred hybrids all need a job. Be sure the one you pick is something you both can enjoy!
Next, take a look at your dog’s schedule. Is he spending most of his time alone while you are at work? Does he get exercise beyond a simple one hour daily walk? For most dogs, one walk a day does not burn off their energy. Instead, hyperactive dogs need the ability to run or jog for a period of time to really give them the exercise their body craves. Forcing an energetic dog to sit at home all day with nothing to do will surely put springs on his paws or entice him to become destructive to use up the energy he is stuck with.
Hyperactive Dog? Check the Food!
Just like with a human child, the foods your dog is eating could cause them to have more energy than he probably should! For the already hyperactive dog, diets including grains and sugars give your dog more energy. The carbohydrates in grains, including wheat, rice, soy and corn all turn to sugars inside the body. It doesn’t matter if a human eats it or a dog, but these carbs will also turn to fat if it is not used up through exercise. You can either increase your dog’s exercise regimen, or provide him a healthier diet.
a healthy diet is best for a dog with too much energy
Foods, including raw diets that are grain free and made up of almost all animal products will give your dog the healthy, balanced energy level he is naturally meant to have. This can help reduce his hyperactivity a great deal, while giving him the natural nutritional energy producers he is meant to ingest, like proteins and healthful fats.
Is the Energy Level Change Sudden?
If your pup used to be a well mannered pup you may want to take a visit to the vet. Occasionally, there are medical issues associated with sudden changes in behavior. This article by Jan Rasmusen on Dogs Naturally Magazine may be helpful to you.
Step It Up!
Unless your dog is of a special breed that requires limited exercise, like Pugs or Bulldogs, consider increasing your dog’s work outs! A hyperactive dog enjoys plenty of exercise. If you are not able to provide more than a simple walk a day, consider hiring a professional dog walker. Or, hiring a dog jogger if one is in your area. These pet professionals can take your dog out for a run whenever you are at work or school. Doing so will drastically reduce his hyperactivity and unwanted behavioral problems.
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.
As pet sitters, caring for special needs pets is something we do regularly. These pets need a more gentle type of attention that we are qualified to provide, and enjoy doing. Not all pet sitters are qualified or have the patience that your pet may need. Find one that is a good fit for you and your pet.
What is a Special Needs Animal?
Caring for animals with special needs can encompass several conditions and circumstances. There are basic special needs such as young animals who need more frequent visits. There are senior animals who require more potty breaks. Some animals require regular medication. Also, the animals recovering from recent surgery. And there are also animals with physical conditions such as hip dysplasia or loss of sight.
Whatever you animals conditions, we would be happy to discuss them and review a plan of care with you before services begin.
Rest Assured, We Are Qualified
As the owner of TLC House and Pet Sitting Service, Kara has been caring for animals for most of her life. She understand the importance of reliable and qualified care for pet owners. As such, our staff of pet sitters are qualified to care for your animal. Your pet will benefit from our years of experience and these key features of service:
Twenty Plus Years of Experience
Bonded and Insured
Overnight and Extended Visits
Veterinarian Recommended
Pet CPR Certified
Ability to Administer Injectable Medications
Ability to Administer Oral Medications
Wound Management
Management of Dietary Restrictions and Supplements
History of Caring for Special Needs Pets (references available)
And more
Time for You to Rest?
Caring for a special needs or aging animal can be exhausting. It can even be overwhelming at times. We understand. On the same hand, the thought of leaving them, even for a short time, is difficult to imagine. All of these feelings are normal and expected.
If you’re feeling this way, it may be time to request some assistance. We know that as a result it will help you get the rest you need and be a better caregiver overall.
Therefore, when you feel it’s time for a break, or simply need some additional help, you can count on us. Call us today to discuss your pet’s special needs at (480) 588-1364.
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.
5 Warning Signs of Feeding Your Pup Too Many Dog Treats
If you have a dog you probably have some dog treats in your kitchen. In fact, some of our clients have so many snacks that the dog rarely eats real food. Giving your dog too many dog treats can actually cause several types of health and behavioral issues. Be on the lookout for these warning signs and cut back on giving your dog treats accordingly:
1. Your Pup Becomes Demanding
If you are giving your dog too many treats he has probably started demanding them after different activities. For example, you may find that your dog demands a treat when you come home or when you get up from taking a nap. You get the idea. When a dog is given too many treats, they find several situations that require a treat.
2. They Won’t Obey Without a Treat
Did you use treats during the training of your dog? If so, you may find that he won’t sit, or lay down, or stay without a treat in return now.
The simple reason for this is that he was bribed in the beginning and now expects treats all the time for accomplishing any of his obedience tasks.
3. Potty Time?
If treats were used to teach your dog to do his business you may find he is waking you up in the middle the night to take him outside. He probably doesn’t need to go out. He really just wants his treat.
4. Is Your Dog Aggressive?
This warning sign of too many dog treats is a serious one. If your dog shows any sign of aggression with you, eliminate the treats immediately. This is true for other family members, and other pets, too. Until this issue is resolved, usually with the help of a canine behavior specialist, do not introduce treats or bones. Aggression, brought on my treats or bones, can lead to injury.
5. Is Your Pup Putting on Weight?
Last but not least, is your pup overweight? When that little fluff ball of yours begins to look like a rolly -polly ball then it’s really time to eliminate or cut back on the treats. Giving your dog too many snacks is definitely the way to put unhealthy weight on your dog that it does not need. Weight issues often lead to additional health issues.
Finally, keep in mind that when it comes to treats, less is better. Try not to let your dog trick you into giving him more than he should have. According to the AKC, it’s all about calories.
We tell people that dogs are really smart and are really good at training people. In fact, often times, dogs are better at training people than people are at training dogs.
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.
Looking for a professional pet sitter? At TLC, we are pet sitters and dog walkers in the Arizona area. We are also nationally and locally recognized award winners. While most seek us for care of their dogs, we also provide cat sitting, too.
With so much experience under our belts, we always strive to be the best professional pet sitter in the area. TLC is known for providing pet sitting, house sitting, and dog walking services in Arizona. We are proud to provide our customers with:
20 Years of Experience
Emergency Planning
Bonded & Insured
Veterinarian Recommended
Tailored Services
24 Hour Voice Mail
Make Reservations Online
“A” Ratings at Angie’s List
Accredited with the Better Business Bureau
You can count on us as your go-to pet sitter for care of your dogs, cats, and most other pets. We are praised for being reliable, trustworthy, compassionate, and affordable.
See What Our Customers Are Saying About Our Pet Sitting Services
We have several happy customers who have been nice enough to share their feedback and experiences with TLC for our testimonials page. You can take a look at them on our testimonial page.
We specialize in in-home pet care while you are away. We are the “Alternative to Boarding” in our area.
This means that we spend time with your pets while you cannot be there. Therefore, while you are away we provide specialized care tailored to each client’s needs.
This includes: following special feeding, diets, regular exercise routine, medications or shots, cleaning litter boxes, and picking up poop. We also care for your home; we make your home appeared lived in. We can set alarms, make sure your AC is working during the summer months and add chemicals to the pool, put out the trash, bring in packages and mail. In addition, we can water plants and do other minimal home care.
Of course, all services also include loving, play time, belly rubs and grooming for the animals.
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.
This fun and festive holiday will be here again before we know it. A July 4th of several years ago is a memorable one for me.
I had just finished up a cook-out with the family and was on my way to visit aclient’s pets in Gilbert, Arizona. I really love this client’s pets! They are absolute sweethearts.
As such, I was totally shocked when I opened one of the dog’s kennels and she growled and nipped at me! This was completely out of character for her.
The client had warned me of her dog’s fear of thunderstorms but the weather was clear that day. Something else was bothering her. Then I realized; she was frightened from the sounds of fireworks. The poor girl was too afraid to even go outside.
I know there are plenty of pet owners and pet sitters who can relate to this story.
Safety Tips
To help make this 4th a little easier for some of you, we’ve put together these tips for July 4th Pet Safety:
1) Keep your pets in a safe, controlled environment away from fireworks on the 4th of July.
The pet owner in the story above did exactly the right thing by keeping her pets safe in kennels inside the house during the firework festivities. Don’t make the mistake of taking your pet out to enjoy the holiday fun if fireworks are on the agenda. Loud noises and large groups of people can make your pet anxious, afraid, and/or nervous. When animals are in this state of mind, they can become aggressive.
Keep your dog safe in a kennel during the fireworks
2) Keep the alcoholic drinks, fireworks, matches, lighter fluid, and glow sticks out of reach.
These items can make for a very enjoyable 4th of July for you, but if your pet ingests any of them, they could be toxic.
3) Watch your pets around the food table
Keep an eye on your pet around the food table. This is especially true if any of the following items are included: chicken bones, onions, chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, and salt. These foods could be dangerous to your pet if eaten.
4) If you plan to be out of town during the 4th of July holiday, make sure your pet sitter knows that your pet is afraid of loud noises.
Discuss a plan to make your pet feel safe and secure away from the fireworks. Some animals respond well to treats made specifically for stress. Other pets prefer what’s called a thunder jacket. Both of these can be found at your local pet supply store.
5) More pets run away on this day than any other
Sadly, many pets make a mad dash for any open door or gate at the sound of fireworks. Some animals may never make their way back home for a number of reasons.
To keep your pet safe, and at home, watch them during fireworks. If you have a fenced yard, ensure that the gates are properly secured. If your home has a screened porch, keep your pet inside to resist the temptation of jumping through the screens. Having a party with people coming in and out? Keep your dog in a room with the door closed or in a kennel. As always with your pet, safety first.
Please keep your pet’s safety and well-being in mind this 4th of July holiday. And, since we’re in the Gilbert, AZ area, we hope you and your pets enjoy the local fireworks festivities this year!
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.
