When it comes to booking a pet sitter, booking early is always better. At Wet Noses Pet Sitting, we try to accommodate all visit requests but sometimes our sitters are already fully booked. Until our sitters figure out how to be in two places at once, we recommend booking your pet sitter when you book your trip.
Why should I book my pet sitter early?
Booking your pet sitter early ensures we are able to match you with a pet sitter for the dates and times requested. The closer to your dates the less likely we’ll be able to fit you in our schedule.
This is especially true for major holidays.
Fourth of July
Thanksgiving
Christmas
New Years
We take care of pets 365 days a year but some major holidays are busier than others. Booking early to secure your spot for these major holidays is important. Overnights tend to fill up the fastest as they are the most in demand. We are limited on how many overnights we can offer based on the number of sitters we have.
What happens if my trip changes?
Reach out! We have a generous cancellation policy in place and we can adjust your pet sitters schedule as needed.
What if I need a last-minute pet sitter?
We understand emergencies come up that you cannot prepare to be out of town for. If our pet sitters are available we may be able to fit you into our schedule. If we are fully booked, we recommend calling your second or third choice for a professional pet sitter.
When a pet sitter coming to your home isn’t an option, boarding facilities should be considered. Many offer spacious rooms (and condos for cats), outdoor activities, and plenty of play time. Some vets also offer boarding but vets typically do not offer all the extra amenities a dedicated boarding facility offers. You may also have to pay a higher rate for booking on such short notice.
Wet Noses Pet Sitting is based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. We have a small list of places in the area were you can board your animals:
When all else fails, if you cannot find a professional pet sitter and boarding facilities are full try asking friends, family, or even your neighbor. You should never leave your pet unattended for an extended period of time.
Why do I even need a professional pet sitter?
Having a pet sitter come to your home helps reduce your pets stress while you’re away. This is because your pets are in a familiar environment. With familiar smells, sounds, and sights.
All of our pet sitters are bonded and insured. That means – if an accident happens you’re covered!
You won’t have to worry about last-minute cancellations. Friends and family can be unreliable. By hiring a professional pet sitter you’re guaranteed coverage even if something comes up on our end.
Having somebody come to your home while you’re away can help keep your home safe. Empty houses are targets for robberies. Regular activity shows that the house isn’t empty and that somebody will notice if something is off.
Conclusion
Booking your pet sitter early ensures we’re able to fit you into our schedule. If we cannot, we recommend calling your second and third choice of professional pet sitters. Having somebody come to your home is ideal as it keeps pets in a familiar environment, no last-minute cancellations, and adds an extra level of safety to your home while you’re away. If this is not possible, we recommend checking out boarding facilities in your area or contacting friends or family as your pet should never be left unattended for an extended period of time.
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/01_061622-100-1.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2022-08-13 17:24:342022-08-13 17:24:34When Should you Book your Pet Sitter?
Dogs are incredible creatures so it’s no shock you might be wondering “Does my dog know I’m pregnant?” The answer is simple! Dogs are really good at smelling things.
Simply put – it helps dogs to survive. Dogs noses are adapted to be excellent at sniffing out things. This allows them to find mates, avoid predators, find food, and locate their young from distances far greater than what we can.
One of the ways your dogs nose does this is by separating air. Part of it goes into the receptors while the rest of the air is for breathing. Certain breeds, like scent hounds, have evolved in a way that disturbs the ground less when sniffing. That way more of the scent will stay on the ground and your dog will be able to track it easier.
Your dog also has a vomeronasal organ. What does this organ do? It allows your dog to detect pheromones by other dogs. But what’s even cooler is your dog can smell separately with each nostril. Like how humans see differently with each eye and then combine the images together. Dogs will take two different scent profiles and combine them into one. This makes them excellent at pinpointing where a specific smell is coming from.
Does my dog really know I’m pregnant?
In reality, probably not. Dogs knowing that humans are pregnant is something we perceive. Pregnancy produces loads of hormones that are going to give off different smells. This will make you smell different. This different smell is what your dog is focusing on.
Dogs can understand smells but in most cases, they don’t. Dogs recognize a different smell, it smells interesting, and they want to investigate.
But my dog is more protective of me when I’m pregnant?
Again, this is something we perceive. There’s no scientific evidence to back up this claim.
What we do know is dogs mimic our behavior. Even when you’re not pregnant. If you’re on high alert there’s a good chance your dog will pick up on this and also be on high alert. This is what we tend to associate with dogs being more protective during pregnancy.
Dogs pick up on the slightest change in routine or environmental changes. A good example of this is when you’re preparing for the baby. When you’re preparing for a baby there’s going to be a lot of household changes. These changes might be stressful to everybody in the household. Your dog is going to pick up on this and possibly be more clingy. Thing clingyness can be perceived as being more protective.
Should I do anything to make my pregnancy easier for my dog?
Adding a new human to the family is one of the most difficult things for pets. There are a lot of things about pregnancy that you can’t avoid. Doctors appointments, rearranging of rooms, and the new things coming into the house. These things can stress out your dog.
Imagine if everybody in your house suddenly disappeared for a few days. Sure, your neighbor came over to help you out but they didn’t understand how to do things proper. By making plans with Wet Noses Pet Sitting you can worry about one less thing. Our pet sitters will make sure your dog, or any of your pets, stick to their routine. This ensures minimal stress for your pets.
Tips to introduce a new baby to your dog
Your dog might not understand you’re pregnant, but there are ways to make introducing a new baby to your dog easier.
Let your dog sniff the areas where baby will be spending most of their time. This allows your dog to get used to the smell the new items coming in.
Start any new rule changes before baby arrives. Example: If your dog is not going to be allowed in the nursery. Start keeping them out of nursery before there’s a new person in the house.
Work on basic training. Babies drop lots of things. Most of these things you don’t want your dog picking up. Reinforcing your dogs basic commands can help with this. If your dog needs help there are many wonderful trainers who are thrilled to train your dog. It’s amazing how quickly dogs can learn!
Conclusion
Your dog is really good at smelling things. This makes it easy for your dog to detect hormonal changes during pregnancy. Not the pregnancy itself. Same goes for your dog acting more protective of you during pregnancy. Your dog isn’t being more protective of you because you’re pregnant. Your dog is reacting to the changes in their environment and mimicking your behavior.
If you’re expecting it’s best to prepare your dog for baby before baby arrives. This can include household rule changes, and getting a refresher training course for your dog. We also recommend having a pet sitter on call for when you go into labor. You’ll know your dog is being taken care of by a professional for as long as you need our services.
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/1107308_PinterestBlogImages_June2021Pt6_13_072021.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2022-04-23 14:10:482022-04-24 16:28:54How Does My Dog Know I’m Pregnant?
What to Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets?
When you have a cat or dog with diabetes it can be a tough decision when deciding to go out of town because there are a lot of factors to consider such as finding pet sitting for a diabetic pet. We want to walk you through these points of concern and discuss when you should make the choice to stay in town and skip that vacation instead. If you decide it is okay to leave, we have a list of suggestions for pet sitting schedules that we have found work out well for diabetic pets. All pets need amazing care, but without an educated and precise pet sitter, it can be easy for a diabetic pet to become ill.
Want to skip the article? Check out our video below that covers the same information.
Should You Travel?
We are always happy to help out, but there are some factors that need to be considered with diabetic pets before you make the decision to go on a vacation.
How long since your pet was diagnosed with diabetes? In the early days after diagnosis, you are trying to get your pet’s glucose levels stable. You are often speaking to your vet regularly and adjusting medication levels. This can be hard for a pet sitter to take on.
Is your pet stable? Meaning are you still needing to adjust medication often and watch your pet’s behavior for concerns?
How is your pet accepting the insulin injections and glucose testing? If it is hard for you, it will be harder for a sitter.
How is your pet about being handled by strangers? If your pet does not love being handled (especially cats) then it is going to be tough for a sitter to medicate your pet and do glucose testing.
Does your pet have any problems eating when you are gone? Pets need to eat before receiving their insulin. If your pet typically does not eat when you are gone then it is going to be hard for a sitter to manage the food and insulin levels consistently.
Are you going to be reachable on your trip? Whenever there is a problem with a pet, especially a pet with medical problems, we will reach out to you for suggestions and ideas. If you are not able to be reached it will be hard for a sitter to determine the next course of action.
If you are seeing multiple points of concern, then you should consider waiting to travel until your pet is more stable. We are concerned for both your pet, who is not feeling well already, and the safety of the sitter who will be handling your pet in close quarters. If you think this is a good time to travel then we have multiple steps to make sure it goes smoothly!
Pet Diabetes: Should You Travel Infographic – Click to enlarge 🔍
How do You Prepare to Leave Your Diabetic Pet?
You have decided you are going to travel and want to make sure it goes as well as possible. So do we! Here is what a sitter will need so you can have the best trip:
All the data from your veterinarian. All of it. This can include normal and abnormal glucose levels, amount of insulin to be given, length of time after eating to give insulin, size of a normal meal, what to do if your pet does not eat, any abnormal behaviors to watch out for, etc. The more information you give your sitter, the more educated decisions she can make.
Feeding instructions with contingencies. It is not unusual for animals to not eat if they are stressed or not feeling well. If your dog does not eat or your cat hides during a visit, think about what your sitter should do. Do you want the sitter to stay longer (and you pay for the extra time)? Should the sitter leave and come back? Can the sitter mix in some canned food or feed a different food altogether to get your pet to eat? We have been known to sit on the floor and hand-feed pets if that is helpful, we just need to know what you think is best.
Normal animal behaviors. When your pet is not feeling well, what does she do? The better the list you make, the more we can look for.
How to reach you. We try to solve problems ourselves, but we never want to mess with the health of a pet. When pet sitting diabetic pets, we like to be able to reach you if we have concerns. This is especially true if you are a new client or your pet has recently been diagnosed with diabetes.
How to reach your vet, and permission for us to speak to them. You need to let know veterinarian know you will be out of town and who will be caring for your pets. If we cannot reach you, or the situation is urgent, we need to be able to reach a veterinarian quickly and not have to worry about any privacy issues.
We’ve put together a checklist to help you keep all of this information organized and to make sure you have all the information at the ready to provide your pet sitter.
Checklist – Click to enlarge 🔍
But what if I’m not sure how my pet will do with a sitter?
If you are unsure of how your pet will do with a sitter – we offer trial visits. At Wet Noses Pet Sitting, we require a trial visit for any cat receiving medication. We recommend trial visits for dogs, but only require it if the dog seems nervous during the meet and greet. During a trial visit, you will leave and your sitter will come just like you are on vacation. This will allow us all to observe how your animal reacts to a new person handling them and allow us to flush out any questions your sitter may have.
If you know your pet will have a hard time – schedule multiple trial visits! We are happy to come to work with you for as long as it takes to get your dog or cat comfortable with us. We want everyone to be relaxed and have peace of mind when you do leave.
Petting sitting diabetic pets is something we love and if you can prepare all of this, then you can travel comfortably knowing that your diabetic pet will be well cared for. Now you just need to decide on a schedule! Unlike other pets, diabetic pets need medication every 12 hours. Below are our suggested schedules that are built with that in mind.
Fluffy ginger cat looking up from cardboard box by Konstantin Aksenov from NounProject.com
Diabetic Pet Option #1
This is an ideal schedule for diabetic pets who need eyes on them regularly.
30 Minute Mid-Day Visit
Your sitter will use this visit for a walk and/or playtime. It is a good time during the day just to check on your pet and make sure they are feeling okay. If you have a dog, this visit should be set at a time when your dog would normally need to go outside, so it is in line with their normal routine. A visit during the middle of the day like this means that your dog will only be alone for 6-7 hours, depending on the time of the visit.
12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay
A 12-hour overnight means your sitter will feed your pet and give insulin at the beginning and end of the stay. Your sitter will arrive in the early evening (around 7 pm) and take your dog for a walk or playtime (if you have one), whichever is normal for them. Then comes feeding and some time for relaxation. Right before bed, your dog goes out for the last outing, usually a potty break. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. In the morning there is time for another walk or playtime and feeding, as well as other pet chores. The Extended Overnight Stay is especially good for dogs and cats who are accustomed to having company and companionship during the evenings or if you have a large number of pets needing care.
Two cavalier spaniels lying next to each other on bed by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com
Diabetic Pet Option #2
This is a good schedule for diabetic pets who are used to being home alone in the evening but like having company overnight.
30-Minute Dinner Visit
Your sitter arrives ready for a walk (if you have a dog) and dinner time! Your pets will be happy to see them after a day apart, so there is usually some happy greeting time followed by a trip outside to go potty for dogs. This visit will be scheduled during the time that your pet needs their evening insulin. After dogs get their evening walk, or cats have playtime, it is time for dinner and medication. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pet has company. Before leaving, your sitter turns on some lights so your pets are not alone in the dark, and to make your home appear lived in.
9-10 Hour Regular Overnight Stay
Your sitter will arrive in the evening (around 10 p.m.) and let your dog out for a potty break. Your sitter then settles your pup in for their normal bedtime routine. Maybe your dog sleeps in the bed with your sitter, or on a dog bed in the bedroom. If your dog needs a tuck in with a blanket or a late-night treat, that will happen. In the morning there is time for a let out or a quick walk and feeding. Before leaving, your sitter will set your pup up for the day with her normal routine, including breakfast and medication. The overnight stay is especially good for dogs who are accustomed to having company and companionship overnight and provides a level of consistency that dogs appreciate. It also allows your sitter to keep an eye on your pet’s behavior for any changes that indicate she is not feeling well.
Pet cat laying down on cat perch by Noun Project from NounProject.com
Diabetic Pet Option #3
This is a good schedule for pet sitting diabetic pets who are fine with being home alone overnight.
30-Minute Breakfast Visit
Your sitter will arrive in the morning (between 7-8:30 am) and take your dog for a walk or playtime, whichever is normal for her. It is an exciting time to get up and stretch our legs first thing in the morning! Cats gets some cuddles and playtime, whatever they like. Then comes feeding, medication, and other normal chores. Before leaving your sitter will set your pup up for the day with her normal routine, whether it be a stuffed KONG or leaving a radio on.
30 Minute Late Afternoon Visit
Your sitter arrives ready for a walk and playtime! Your pup will be happy to see her after a day apart, so there is usually some happy greeting time followed by a trip outside to go potty. Then they are off for their walk or playtime outside, depending on what your dog prefers. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. Before leaving, your sitter turns on some lights so your dog in not alone in the dark, and to make your home appear lived in.
15-30 Minute Night Visit
This visit should be timed to be 12 hours apart from your breakfast visit. The sitter will take dogs out for a last-minute potty break and then feeding and medication. It allows your pup to close out the day comfortably and securely. Your sitter will let your pup out and settle her in for the night with her normal routine. At the end it is lights out and time for sleep!
Cavalier spaniel sitting under under purple blanket by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com
Our Considerations for all Pets
When it comes to pet sitting diabetic pets, there are a few factors we like to consider when setting a schedule:
All diabetic pets need visits spaced 12 hours apart for insulin, so we stick to that when scheduling.
How long is your dog used to being home during the day? Do you work a full dog or do you work from home?
How often does your dog go outside during a normal day? It is easy to underestimate so try counting for a few days to be sure.
Does your dog need a lot of exercise? If so, consider schedules for active dogs.
Where do your pets sleep at night? If your dog waits for you to go to bed and then joins you, you need overnight stays. If your dog wanders off at 9 p.m. and you don’t see her again until 7 a.m., you can probably get away with just visits, if you want.
For you – are you more comfortable having someone active around the house? If so, then you want an Extended Overnight.
Time to Customize!
We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your dog, so you are all happy during your trip. We also know that each home is different, and a lot of people have more than just one dog!
After you have a basic idea of your schedule we sit down to figure out the nitty-gritty:
Are there any other pets in the home that need feeding, medication, etc.? We make sure your visit has enough time to get everything done.
We like to allow enough time for feeding, changing water, walks, and some cuddles (if your pet is so inclined).
There needs to be enough time to clean out food and water bowls and clean up any messes, toys, etc.
Many people who love animals, also love plants! Normal visits have time for a small bit of plant watering. If you have beautiful summer gardens, then we need to see how long they take to the water and add that on to your normal visits.
On your normal schedule, we can complete household tasks like bringing in the newspaper, collecting the mail, turning lights off and on, and taking out the trash.
Do you want updates every visit? Many clients do, just keep in mind that your sitter will take 5+ minutes to send an update and that is time during your visit not focused on your pets.
It will take a sitter a bit longer to get the work done than it takes you, especially if you have extensive routines for your pets and home. You have had years to perfect your system! We always try to make sure your pet sitter will have enough time for everything so she will not feel stressed and your pets will receive the focus they deserve.
Work With Us to Keep Your Pets Healthy While You are Gone!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/07_081021-copy-2.png900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2021-09-03 13:00:342023-08-11 10:38:56What to Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets
One of the most common questions we get asked is “Where does a pet sitter sleep overnight?” And the answer might shock you:
Anywhere you give them the okay to sleep!
Some of the most common places our pet sitters sleep are:
Guest bedrooms
Master bedrooms
(Comfy) couches
Our sitters do enjoy when clients have freshly washed any bedding as it helps them settle in. Your pet sitter will often bring their own pillow and blanket to sleep with and to lay on top of any bedding already on the bed or place on a comfy couch. When it comes to picking a place for your pet sitter to sleep we recommend picking a place that your pets are used to sleeping. If your pets sleep in the master bedroom with you we recommend your pet sitter sleeping in the master bedroom. If you’re not comfortable with that, a guest bedroom or a preferably comfy couch is another great option.
Don’t have a guest bedroom or you don’t want your sitter sleeping on the couch? No problem. Air mattresses, roll-out beds, and futons are also options!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/07_081021.png900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2021-08-26 14:31:322021-08-26 15:02:04Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep?
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What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing: Tips & Resources
Loosing a pet can be extremely scary, especially if you do not know where to start looking. We have guides specific to Larimer County, but what if you’re not from the area? Here are some general missing pet tips and resources to keep in mind if your pet goes missing.
1. The Basics If Your Pet Goes Missing
For the first few minutes after a pet goes missing, you want to start with the basics.
Do a patrol of the area to see if you find any evidence of Fluffy.
Talk to the neighbors, especially anyone working outside, to see if they noticed Fluffy going by.
If Fluffy is a dog, swing by her favorite places to walk or any place for play dates to see if she went there.
You have done the basic search and turned up nothing. This is typically 15-30 minutes after you have realized Fluffy is missing. Now it is time to reach out for help.
Call your local humane society and animal shelter – let them know you have lost your pet. Some will let you submit a lost pet report online, others you have to submit in person. Call to find out more information.
If Fluffy has a microchip, contact the company to let them know she is missing and how to reach you, just in case your information is not up to date.
Contact any veterinarians, groomers and pet supply stores in your immediate area (around a mile from where she went missing), in case someone picks her up and brings her in.
3. Social Media is Your Best Resource
Getting on social media is the best missing pet tip and resource you have at your disposal. Your friends and complete strangers are going to be happy to help you search for any news of Fluffy.
Post on all of your personal social media networks. Include a recent picture, where and when she went missing and any directions you want people to follow, such as how to contact you, not to chase Fluffy, Fluffy is afraid of men, etc. Specifically ask people to share the post. If you know any people in the animal world, such as your normal dog walker or groomer, ask them to share since they have such a large reach.
Post on these pages. There are many pages specifically dedicated to helping reunite missing pets with their people. Post on as many as you can, but start with Facebook. That is where we have had the most luck in recent years.
Any local Facebook Lost and Found pet groups.
Nextdoor – This is a newish system for people to coordinate with their neighborhoods on various subject. When you post it can be seen by those directly in your area.
Post on Craigslist in the Community -> Pets section as well as Community -> Lost+Found. There is no charge to do so.
Helping Lost Pets – You have to fill out their online form, which gives you a flyer you can use and their website has a ton of helpful tips. Once you fill out the form, they will post it in their Facebook group.
PawBoost – You can pay for upgraded service, but they list your pet for free on Facebook and in their database.
LostMyDoggie – They post on Facebook but they also alert local shelters and rescues.
Head out and continue looking for Fluffy. Make sure you are able to answer the phone if someone calls! Ask your neighbors to check their garages, sheds and yards to make sure she is not hiding there.
4. What is the Next Step?
If you are approaching evening, there are a few steps you can take, especially if Fluffy is shy and still might be in the area.
Double check with any neighbors coming home to make sure they did not see her earlier in the day.
Consider leaving your door open so Fluffy can come in at night, if she was lost from your home.
If Fluffy is a cat, place her litter box outside where she can smell it.
5. The Next Day
You have done all of the fast, easy options and Fluffy has not been found. Now is time to dig in and spread the word that Fluffy is missing.
File a lost pet report if you haven’t already with your local humane society and animal shelter.
Contact local breed rescues that relate to Fluffy. For instance, if she is a Golden Retriever, contact the local Golden rescue. There are too many for me to list here, and they change regularly, so search online for one. You can also contact All Breed Rescue Network at (888) 440-6467. They keep a running list of breed rescues in the Colorado area. Sometimes breed rescues will be able to offer more suggestions or help specific to your breed.
Print off flyers from one of the sources you used yesterday. Post flyers in veterinary hospitals, groomers, trainers, pet supply stores, the dog park and anywhere animal related. Many local businesses also have community boards. Start with businesses near you and increase the distance the longer Fluffy is missing. Posting flyers on mailboxes and phone poles is illegal, although many people do it.
Continue to update posts online. People will be wondering if you found Fluffy and you want to keep them searching. Ask for help again and for people to keep sharing your posts.
Talk to people in the neighborhood where Fluffy went missing. Offer a reward for any information leading to finding her.
If you hear of people spotting her, go to that area and search. Shy animals can be very hard to catch, especially during active times of the day when there are a lot of people around. If you believe she might be in the area, go out during quiet times in the evening or morning when she is more likely to appear. You can also look at renting a humane trap if you are sure she is there but cannot catch her.
6. DO NOT Give Up Hope of Finding Your Missing Pet
The longer you search the more discouraged you become. Keep looking! Here are a few searches I have helped with over the years for people I know:
A small, very shy dog went missing. We tracked her to a neighborhood where kids had spotted her (we paid them to keep an eye out for her). After a few days we were not able to find her until a kid came forward. A woman in the neighborhood had picked her up and had given her to a family member in Colorado Springs. Once confronted we were able to get her back.
A dog ran out his front door. The neighbors a few houses down saw him, but not not the people at the end of the block. He vanished! His owners continued searching and found him late that night being walked by a nice couple who lived down the street. They had been leaving earlier when they saw him run by, so they put him in the garage and then left for a few hours and had just returned home.
A woman’s dog had been missing for months. She sent out flyers to shelters across the country and he showed up here, in Larimer County. Turned out a trucker had picked her up and driven her across 3 states before dropping her off at the local shelter!
We regularly hear stories of animals being reunited years after going missing due to their microchips. Keep that information up-to-date and continue your search!
7. Once you Find Your Missing Pet
Congratulations! I am so excited for you and you must feel so relieved!
Take the moment and enjoy it. Do not scold Fluffy, she is just happy to see you!
Plan a trip to the vet if your pet was gone for awhile or appears to be injured.
Go back and take down those flyers, lost pet reports and postings online so that everyone knows you found your fur kid.
Return the favor and share information about missing pets for other people!
If you have a missing pet tip or resource that is not listed, Please Let Us Know so we can get it added!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/1089543_Pinterest-Blog-Images-June-2021-Part-3_04_060921.png900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2021-06-10 11:39:072021-08-04 18:54:15What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing: Tips & Resources
Pet insurance can be confusing but we’re here to answer the common questions about pet insurance. Our video on pet insurance is one of our most viewed and we get a lot of questions so I felt it was worth revisiting to help you navigate the world of pet insurance. If you did not watch our first video, go watch it first.
Here are the most commonly asked questions:
Do they cover preexisting conditions?
No. If a health issue has already been diagnosed with your dog or cat, they will not cover it. Usually, after your first claim, they will request all past veterinary records and base their decision on what is covered from those records. There are some companies out there such as PetAssure, that will pay towards pre-existing conditions. For PetAssure your vet must be in network. This is not the same as insurance.
Is there a wait time?
Yes. There is a wait time before coverage starts, generally 30 days. Some companies offer gap coverage which covers any health problems that arise from the time you get your pet until your normal policy begins. If you are offered this, take it!
Which is the best company?
This is probably the most common question about pet insurance. Each company has a slightly different policy that appeals to different people. Research them to find the one that is best for you. Check with your current home, rental, auto, or other insurance company to see if they offer pet insurance as well. Companies like Progressive and State Farm have pet insurance programs that you can get a discount on if you have other services by them.
Do they cover 100% of costs?
Generally no. Most pet insurance policies cover 90% or less of the cost of your veterinary expenses. There are policies that offer less coverage for a lower cost, which is more affordable for some people.
Do they cover preventative care?
Generally no. Normal preventative care, including dental care, is not covered under most policies. Again, companies like PetAssure work for preventative care as they are not insurance and more of a discount card. Think of it how GoodRx works for humans.
Do costs increase over time?
Yes. Generally, the premium for a policy will increase each year as your pet ages.
How do the veterinary bills get paid?
Unlike human policies, veterinarians do not submit bills to insurance. You pay the veterinarian and then you submit the invoice to the insurance company for reimbursement. If you do not have the money upfront, some programs like Care Credit can help bridge the gap until you get reimbursed.
Overall I highly recommend pet insurance for any people who do not have the disposable income to be able to pay out of pocket for large veterinary expenses. It is a terrible thing to have to decide between your pet’s care and our finances. Avoid that situation if possible!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Commonly-Asked-Questions-About-Pet-Insurance.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2021-01-14 18:17:262021-06-30 13:30:55Commonly Asked Questions About Pet Insurance
Bringing a new dog into the family is a very exciting time. Becoming a pet parent is rewarding, but also full of responsibility. The best way to prepare for your new dog is to have a checklist to lay the groundwork for your new addition.
1. Time: It is very important to think about how much time you’ll honestly be able to give your new pet.
At the very least dogs need to be fed 2-3 times a day and walked at least once a day.
Dogs with more energy may need even more time for proper exercise and stimulation.
Healthy pets should get at least an hour or day of direct attention, even if it’s just cuddling.
Don’t forget to add in time for grooming, hygiene, and appointments.
2. Costs: You want to make sure that you can always care for your vet. The best way is to create a budget for a new dog before you bring them home.
Does your new pet need to be spayed or neutered?
Is there an adoption fee that needs to be paid?
Monthly expenses such as food, pet sitting or new supplies
Routine veterinary care
Microchipping
Grooming equipment and supplies
Will you want to sign them up for training classes?
Beds and toys
Spare supplies
3. Age & Size: These are also two important factors in getting a new dog.
Puppies take far more time and training
Is your home accommodating to a large dog or would it be better suited for a small dog?
Do you have another pet to consider when deciding on what type of dog to get?
Can a large pet travel with you comfortably?
4. Lifestyle and relationship: Another big consideration is how your lifestyles will blend and the relationship you want to to have with your new canine companion.
Are you active and want to bring your dog on hikes and camping trips?
Will your work and social life affect your ability to spend time and care for your pet?
Do you want a pet that will travel with you?
Do you have children that need a reliable and safe dog?
Is your new dog going to be your best friend or more of an independent roommate?
Shopping Checklist:
Age appropriate food
Water and food bowls
Collar
Leash
ID tags (make sure your phone number is on it)
Dog carrier or crate
Doggy shampoo and brush
Super absorbent paper towels
Various types of toys
Blanket
Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
Plastic baggies for waste
Getting a new dog awesome. Once you have considered all the important factors and gotten their supplies, the only thing left to do is have fun with your new family member!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/235101_WNblogs_post4_053018.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2018-04-25 17:44:102019-01-28 18:31:40Getting a Dog – Complete Checklist for New Dog Owners
At some point in all pet parent’s lives, we thought to ourselves, “I think it’s time to get a pet.” After all, that’s how we became pet parents in the first place. However, if you’re new to pet ownership, you may be wondering about the pros and cons of adopting a pet. Here are the most common benefits and drawbacks when you decide to adopt a pet.
PROS
You’re giving a pet a new lease on life. This is by far one of the best benefits of adopting a pet instead of buying from a pet store. Even if the shelters in your area are No Kill, they are still living life in a cage without a proper home. When you adopt a pet, you give them a whole new life complete with a home and family to love them.
It’s less expensive to adopt. Prue breeds and pets from the store are often come with a hefty price tag. What’s more is that a lot times you can get a bundle discount fee for neutering, microchipping and shots included with the adoption fee. All of these can be pretty pricey at the vet, but you get a better rate at the shelter. Just keep in mind that all pets come with monthly and yearly expenses for checkups, food, supplies, flea and tick prevention just to name a few.
You’ll get more exercise. This one may be true for both shelter and pet store animals, but it’s still an awesome pro. Taking your dog for walks or playing fetch gets you up off the couch and out of the house. Even with cats, you can spend time playing with wands and ribbons or catnip mice. When you adopt a pet, you adopt a new routine and that often is a more active one.
CONS
You don’t know much about their history. A lot of pets in a shelter have no real background information. They may have been left behind by a loving owner who passed away or they may have been abused and ran away. It’s hard to tell exactly what their past life was like. That can make it difficult to know if they will have behavioral or health problems down the road.
Their breed is often a mystery. If you’re looking for a specific type of breed, it can be hard to come by in a shelter. Most shelter pets are mixed breeds. But you could be searching for a while if you’re looking for a certain breed. What’s great is thanks to recent technology you can actually get your shelter pet DNA tested so you won’t have to guess what type of mutt they are, pretty awesome right?
In short, there are far more pros than cons when you’re adopting a new pet. They may make your life a little more hectic and you a little more tired, but it is well worth it. You’re not only saving a life, you’re enhancing your own. Do you have a shelter pet that you love? We’d love to hear your story and see your pictures! Comment below or visit our Facebook page and let us know all about them.
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/239720_WNblogs_post1_060618.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2018-04-23 11:02:262019-01-28 18:34:59Pros and Cons of Adopting a Pet
When people learn that I own a pet sitting company, the most common question is “How did you get started with that?” A lot of people pet sit, but very few have a large, professional company that has been operating for more than a year or two. Many people get burned out long before that, or do not have enough experience to really handle the difficulties of a company such as this.
A little about me
I am Liana, the owner of Wet Noses Pet Sitting. Just like many young folks, I grew up watching my neighbors pets and homes when they were on vacation. I volunteered with different rescues doing foster care and on-site work. When I was 16 I had my first job at the Larimer Humane Society. That was followed by various other positions in animal related businesses. I love working with animals and never considered taking a job in another field. During my years working in these various job, I began to slowly gather casual pet sitting clients.
The change
It was over the Christmas of 2009, I realized I had too many clients. Up until then I was still working in other jobs and pet sitting on the side. This was the first holiday when I had to turn people away. I had to take time off of work for my pet sitting. It was a hard year for me because all of these people and their pets were family. I did not want to send them to another pet sitter. At that point I really had to make a decision about whether I wanted to continue the way I had been, pet sitting in my free time, or take the leap and start a business.
In March of 2010, we turned it into a professional pet sitting company and added sitters. Originally named Sidehill Sitters after the neighborhood where I was living at the time. In 2016, we decided to change the name to Wet Noses Pet Sitting and here we are today!
https://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/362557_HUGE-LIST-OF-WN-BLOGS_05a_020519-min.jpg900600Liana Waddyhttps://wetnosespetsitting.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wet-noses-logo-420x120.pngLiana Waddy2017-07-31 21:31:362019-02-10 22:27:32How Did Wet Noses Pet Sitting Get Started?
