What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

What Plants are Poisonous to Cats Header

What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

As pet parents we know that our cats get into a lot of things including things they shouldn’t eat. But what about plants? Most of us know lilies are deadly but are there others? Here’s 12 plants you may have that are poisonous to your cat.

1. Autumn Crocus

Crocus vernus with bee
Generalrelative, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Azaleas

Azalea Flower
Marianafloresocampo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium. Locatie, Tuinreservaat Jonker vallei 03
Dominicus Johannes Bergsma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Daffodils

Daffodils, 2021-03-23, Beechview, 03
Cbaile19, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

5. Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia cultivar
Tomáš Kebert & umimeto.org, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Hyacinth

HyacinthPink
Elf – [1], CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Plant 09
Sabina Bajracharya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

8. Lilies

Easter Lily.
Halder97Sudipto, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Oleander

Nerium oleander pink
Challiyan at Malayalam Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

10. Rhododendrons

Rhododendron ponticum actm 04
Agnes Monkelbaan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

11. Sago Palm

12. Tulips

Tulipa suaveolens floriade to Canberra
John O’Neill, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want a handy infographic to put on the fridge? We have one for you below.

Poisonous Plants for Cats Infographic

Do you have any of these plants in your home? If so, make sure to remove them or place them into a room where your cat cannot get to them. If you believe you pet has ingested any of these plants, call the Pet Poison Helpline and seek veterinary help immediately. Want to know more? See our previous post on Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets.

Amigo Animal Hospital - Veterinarian In Westminster, CA USA :: Pet Poison Helpline

Were any of these plants that are poisonous to cats new to you? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your feedback.

Did you know mushrooms can also be toxic to cats? See our blog post here to learn more about what mushrooms are toxic to pets.

 

The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

The Importance of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated Header

The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

We all know the importance of drinking water daily. But did you know it’s just as important for your pets to stay hydrated as you?

  • Water maintains healthy cell function: Just like in humans, water makes up the majority of our pets cells and is essential to keeping healthy cell function.
  • Helps aid in digestion: Water plays a function in helping your pet digest food. Not enough water means they may have digestive issues.
  • Helps aid in nutrient absorption:  Similar to digestion, water helps your pet absorb nutrients from their food.
  • Makes movement easier: Water helps to lubricate your pets joints and helps to cushion them. Without enough water your pet may have trouble moving and may be in pain.

As you can see, water provides essential functions for life. Make sure your pet is getting between .05-1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to help maintain healthy functions.

Here’s some of our favorite ways to help keep your pet hydrated!

  • Add more water bowls: Want to change it up? Try out a fountain with your pet or add ice discs to keep the water cool.
  • Freeze wet dog food to create a pupsicle: Stock up on wet food that comes in a pouch this season. Cut a small hole into the pouch, add a bit of water (ideal for pâté food), and insert a popsicle stick. Let freeze until solid.
  • Add water to your pets food: A simple trick to get more water into your pets diet, add a few teaspoons or tablespoons of water to their food.
  • Fresh fruit as a treat: Blueberries, apple slices, seedless watermelon, and cantaloupe are all hydrating and healthy treats for your dog.Pet Hydration Ideas Infographic

Have you tried any of these ways to keep your pet hydrated? Let us know your favorite methods in the comments!

Heartworm In Dogs: The Facts and What To Do About It

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Heartworm in Dogs: The Facts and What to do about it Header

Heartworm In Dogs: The Facts and What To Do About It

What is heartworm?

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a worm that lives in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of pets that have been infected by mosquitos. These worms get their name from where the adults live in the body: the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of an infected animal. Dogs are most susceptible to infection but cats and ferrets can also become infected.

Can heartworm be treated?

Yes! But treatment costs 10-15x more than preventatives and treatment can take months. It is not always 100% successful. Treatment usually involves Melarsomine dihydrochloride which is an FDA-approved drug used to kill adult heartworms in dogs. The medication is injected deep into the back muscles. This treatment is often only used for Class 1, 2, and 3 cases of heartworm. Class 4 of heartworm is risky and often fatal as the blood is being blocked by a mass of worms. Surgery is the only option for class 4 cases. There is no FDA-approved drug to treat heartworm in cats and ferrets.

Is my pet at risk?

Heartworm is found in all 50 states. Even if your pet is indoors, a stray infected mosquito that finds its way into your house can infect your pet.

Is heartworm in dogs deadly?

Potentially. Heartworm can cause: severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage of other organs especially if left untreated. There are 4 classes of heartworm with class 1, 2, and 3 being treatable with medication. Class 4 requires surgery that may not be successful.

Can I do anything to prevent heartworm in dogs?

Yes! Pets should be on year-round preventatives and get regular testing for early detection. Preventative care costs less than treatment and only takes a few minutes. If you have cats and ferrets, keep them indoors to help reduce their risk of being infected. For dogs, make sure to mosquito-proof your yard as much as possible. This includes removing any standing water, regular yard maintenance, and using fans when outside.

 

Heartworm Disease in Pets Infographic

Want to learn more about heartworm in dogs and facts? See the FDA’s page on heartworm that goes into more depth.

Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets Header

Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets

Before bringing in a new plant it’s important to know which houseplants are toxic to pets. Do you have houseplants, or are thinking of adding some to your home? Then check out these tips!

Many common houseplants are toxic to pets. These include:

  • Aloe Vera
  • Caladium
  • Eucalyptus
  • Ivy Plants
  • Jade Plants
  • Lilies
  • Mistletoe
  • Poinsettia
  • Pothos

You might even have one of these and didn’t even realize it. We have them around anyway and most of the time our pets are fine with them, but there are times when we should be more concerned.

Times when you need to worry about pets and plants:

  1. When you get a new plant: New things are always exciting and worth investigating. This can lead to accidental ingestion.
  2. When you have a new pet or have a pet visiting your home: These animals aren’t used to your plants (or maybe being around plants in general) and should be observed before being left alone with them. Never leave a pet alone with a houseplant that is toxic to pets.
  3. When you move a plant around in your home: Same thing as the new plant, except your pet thinks it’s a new plant even when it isn’t.

How to keep your pets safe:

  • Know which of your plants are toxic.
  • Keep an eye on your plants for any evidence your pets are messing with them.
  • Put plants out of reach if possible – either on a high to reach shelf or in a locked room your pets can’t get into.
  • Call the pet poison helpline if your pet has eaten or chewed on one of your plants.

Houseplants that are toxic to pets Infographic

Did you know that there are some plants that are poisonous to cats but not dogs? Check out our guide for what plants are poisonous to cats.

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Header

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Header

Pet Fireworks Safety Tips

Holidays like the 4th of July, New Year, and others are great fun with lots of fireworks but are maybe not as fun for our pets. If you want to keep your dogs and cats happy and healthy, here are all your Fireworks Pet Safety Tips!

1. Fireworks are fun for us, but are scary for pets!

We might love the pretty lights but for many dogs and cats, fireworks can feel like the end of the world. If you keep that in mind it can make it easier to plan for your pets.

2. Make sure all tags and microchips are up-to-date.

If you have moved recently then your information might be out of date. Making sure it is all current will be a life-saver if one of your pets gets out.

3. Have a current picture of your pets, just in case.

If your pet is picked up by animal control you might need to prove ownership. Or if you need to make flyers you will need a current, clear picture ready to go.

4. Set up a safe and quiet place at home.

If your pet does get nervous with the loud noises, it helps to have a quiet area for them to rest. This is also helpful during any festivities like parties and barbecues.

5. Make sure all windows and doors are closed.

If your dog or cat were to get really nervous, jumping out an open window can look like an easy escape. Even screens might not stop a determined pet, so be safe and keep them securely latched.

6. Do not let dogs out loose in the yard.

Your dog may never have shown an interest in jumping a fence before, but scary noises can push a dog to new limits. I have even heard of dogs that jumped the fence while their person was in the yard with them, so be overly cautious.

7. Try calming items like music and ThunderShirts.

For pets that are extra nervous, you can try all sorts of calming items. Loud music that drowns out the sound of the fireworks may help and so may calming music for dogs. So can ThunderShirts, essential oils, and CBD oil (check with experts on these first as some can be toxic to pets).

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Infographic

 

Be safe and have fun this holiday!

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Header

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Header

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas?

What can your pets eat on Christmas and what should you avoid? Christmas is a wonderful time of the year and the last thing you need is a late night trip to the emergency vet. We’ve compiled a list of things you should avoid feeding your pets this Christmas.

Avoid These Foods

  • Turkey skin
  • Cooked bones
  • Stuffing
  • Raisins or Grapes
  • Onion or Garlic
  • Fat Trimmings
  • Chocolate
  • Candied Yams
  • Bread Dough
  • Alcohol

Enjoy These Foods

  • Turkey – no skin
  • Green Beans – unseasoned
  • Baked Squash – unseasoned
  • Pet Treats

Bocce’s Bakery makes fun, festive treats that make great stocking stuffers that a thematic for the holiday.

What if my pet gets into something they shouldn’t?

It happens! Depending on what they have gotten into and the amount they may only have a belly ache. Things like alcohol, chocolate (especially dark chocolate), and large amounts of any of the things listed under avoid can be dangerous. If you notice your pet acting strangely, seek veterinary care.

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Inforgraphic

Looking for ideas of how to involve your pets in Christmas? We have you covered. Involving your pets in Christmas can be great fun as long as it is done safely.

Events You Don’t Want to Miss in Northern Colorado This Halloween 2019

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Halloween is almost here. It is time to enjoy the scary holiday and have a fun time out in the world. These events are fun for you and for your pets!

Our Top 7 Halloween Events That Involve Your Pets:

 

When: October 19th, 12-2pm

Where: Wellington Veterinary Hospital, 7837 6th St, Wellington

We had so much fun last year we are doing it again this year! Dress your pup up and come down for some great beer and good times! Prizes for the top costumes!

 

When: October 25th, 3-4:30pm

Where: Gunter Field UNC Campus

Join us for our annual fun halloween themed festival sponsored by University of Northern Colorado’s FETCHLAB!  There will be several events for you and your dog to participate in! We will have prizes, raffle tickets, and treats! Participate in our fun events, including best trick, costume contest, obstacle course, 25 yard dash, home run commands, frisbee catch, toy retrieve, and more!

This event is open to everyone (with or without a pup) and is FREE to attend and participate!

 

When: October 26th, 9am-12:30pm

Where: Biergarten at Anheuser-Busch, 2351 Busch Dr, Fort Collins

The Phantom 4 Miler is a dog-friendly, Halloween themed 4-mile run/walk open to the whole family.

 

When: October 26th, 12-1pm

Where: Lee Martinez Farm, Fort Collins

Bow Wowvania is a dog-friendly trick-or-treat event at The Farm. Hundreds of dogs and dog owners will take a stroll down Trick-or-Treat Street dressed in costume and eager for treats. All dog owners will receive a doggie bag for treats and travel between storefronts hosted by our sponsors.

 

When: October 26th, 12-2pm

Where: Bath Garden Center and Nursery, 2000 E Prospect Rd, Fort Collins

Costume Contest! Pet costume contest! Pumpkin carving demonstration! Crafts! Fun!

 

When: October 27th, 2-4pm

Where: Oak Street Plaza, 201 S College Ave, Fort Collins

Dress your pug in the spookiest, silliest, cutest costume you can find and come join the fun as we “parade” around Old Town. Humans are encouraged to dress up, too, and we LOVE theme costumes. And if your pug has a sibling who’s not a pug, they are welcome too!

 

When: October 31st, 7am to 6pm

Where: The Dog Pawlour, 2005 S College Ave, Fort Collins

Come and celebrate Halloween with at the Dog Pawlour. Bring your pup in their best costume for a costume contest! Winners get to take home a tasty prize!

If you’re going to be heading out to one of these events make sure you are being safe and that your dog will be comfortable. Not all dogs love visiting people who are dressed up in scary costumes!

We hope that everyone has a happy and healthy Halloween!

 

How to Find a Pet Sitter You Will Love!

/0 Comments/in /by

 

When you are traveling you want peace of mind and that means you need to find a pet sitter that will take amazing care of your pets. A professional pet sitter will be bonded and insured, an expert in animal care, have an emergency plans in place and screen and train their sitters. So how do you find a pet sitter that is going to meet all of your expectations?

Ask Friends

Ask around with friends and family and see who has used a Professional Pet Sitter. They will be able to provide first-hand knowledge of the experience and give you a referral. You can ask your wider friend base by posting on social media for referrals in your area.

Ask Veterinarians and Groomers

If you have a regular veterinarian, groomer, dog trainer, or any animal professional you are working with, ask them for a referral. Chances are they know the Professional Pet Sitters in town and can help you find a pet sitter that would be a good match specifically for your pets, since they already know them.

Search National Pet Sitting Groups

There are a few major pet sitting groups, the largest two being the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International. Not all pet sitters belong to these groups, but they can be a good place to find a pet sitter if you are not sure where to start.

Find a Pet Sitter on Nextdoor

Nextdoor is still a relatively new program, but in it you can talk to neighbors in your direct area. It is being used for all sorts of information exchange, including referrals for pet sitters. When you are asking around, be sure to indicate you are looking for a Professional Pet Sitter, not a neighbor’s kid. The advantage of Nextdoor is that many pet sitters only work in specific areas so if you live in an area with few pet sitters then Nextdoor can help you find a pet sitter that is willing and able to come to your neighborhood, since they already did for your neighbor.

Cat how to find a pet sitter

Find a Pet Sitter on Google

It is nice to use a reference to find a pet sitter, but if you are struggling you can always go for the nice old-fashioned web search. When you do this you will find a lot of tech companies like Wag and Rover, so just scan past those to find a pet sitter that is local and a professional company.

Pick One!

Once you have gotten some referrals or found companies online, you have to pick a pet sitter. Not all pet sitters are created equal so make sure your sitter is bonded and insured, supervises and trains their sitters and has back up in case of an emergency. If you are in our area then learn more about our pet sitting services!

Download Our Checklist for Hiring a Pet Sitter

 

Newsletter Registration

Why not register for our newsletter? We’ll share stories and send out special offers too! We never share or sell your contact information.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

In Home Dog Sitting Services

/0 Comments/in , /by

 

In home dog sitting services are awesome when you are leaving town you want to make sure your dog is well taken care of. You could ask a friend or family member, or you can look for a Professional Pet Sitting Company.

How Do In Home Dog Sitting Services Work?

All Professional Pet Sitting Companies work a bit differently, so I can speak to how to we do things here at Wet Noses Pet Sitting. When we watch dogs we are looking to ensure they are as comfortable as possible when you are gone. This means we:

  • Feed dogs on their normal schedule. Maintaining a normal schedule allows your dog to continue their normal routine and not get hungry or worried.
  • Exercise her how you normally would, or more. Some dogs can use a lot of exercise and we have the time to provide it! Our only concern during our visits is your dog, so if she needs a 1 hour walk to be happy, we can do that. Tired dogs are good dogs!
  • Give her lots of pets and cuddles! Some dogs love walks and some love to just get cuddles on the couch. That cuddle time is just as important to their mental health as exercise.
  • Design a schedule that matches her needs. We are here for your dog’s comfort, not our own, so we do everything we can to match the schedule and routine that is best for your dog.
  • Send you updates! We want you to enjoy your time away and the only way to do that is if you know your dog is being well cared for. We love to send picture and video updates as often as you want to receive them!

What About Schedules?

Picking the perfect schedule for in home dog sitting can be hard, but that is why we are professionals! We are here to talk you through your dog’s routine and give you suggestions based on our experience. We will ask:

  • What breed is she and how old is she?
  • How often does your dog go potty?
  • What is her normal feeding schedule?
  • How much exercise does she get?
  • What is her normal routine?
  • What would your ideal schedule look like?

Then we put together a couple recommendations for in home dog sitting just for you and your pup. You can see some of our regular recommendations for dogs, puppies, active dogs and diabetic dogs. These are schedules we have found to be most successful as a starting point.

Dog during in home dog sitting services

How Much Does In Home Dog Sitting Cost?

The cost of visits starts at $22, but can vary based on number of pets, location and length of visits. You can view our base rates on our Services page and when we discuss your individual household we will be able to provide you with an exact rate.

How to Schedule In Home Dog Sitting

You can schedule in home dog sitting by contacting us directly via phone, email, or submitting a request on our website. We will always reach out to you to discuss your household and make sure we know everything we need to about your dog. Our goal is to provide the best possible in home dog sitting, which we can only do if we know as much as possible about your household. After that we get you set up in our system and you are able to schedule visits that work for you. After your initial set up you will be able to schedule your visits online whenever is convenient for you!

We are here to give you peace of mind during your trip when you know your dog is in the best of hands. In home dog sitting with Wet Noses Pet Sitting means you can relax and enjoy your trip!

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Rabbit?

/1 Comment/in , /by

 

Are you going out of town but are worried about your rabbit? House rabbits are becoming more popular as people realize just how smart they are and how rabbits can make amazing house pets. We are seeing more clients that have a rabbit as their only pet, and we want to make sure they receive the best care when you go out of town. Rabbits need to be watched by someone knowledgeable about their behavior, how to hold and handle them, and what health signs to watch out for if they become ill.

Rabbit Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that are used to lots of attention.

1 Hour Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and let your rabbit out to play in whatever area is normal. Your sitter will play with your bunny (if she wants) and let her get some exercise. Your sitter will clean her cage, give her fresh food and water and can chop veggies or do any food prep you normally do. There is also time for a good cage and litter box cleaning. An hour visit really lets your rabbit stretch her legs and get some good activity and attention. Your sitter ends the visit by securing your rabbit back in her space, giving her any treats she can have and sending you an update so you know she is safe and sound!

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will come for a dinner visit for some playtime and exercise, as well as a dinner feeding. At the end of the visit your sitter will settle your bunny in for the night and make sure she is happy and content.

 

Rabbit Option #2

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that need feeding twice a day.

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive and check on your bunny. She can come out to play, explore and get some cuddles. Her sitter will clean up her cage and litter box, give her fresh food and water and make sure her behavior is normal. After some exercise, your bunny can go back in her cage for breakfast and treats (if you say so). Your sitter will send you and update to let you know she is doing great!

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will come for a dinner visit for some playtime and exercise, as well as a dinner feeding. At the end of the visit your sitter will settle your bunny in for the night and make sure she is happy and content.

These visits could be 15 minutes if your bunny will not be coming out to play, however, if your bunny is used to getting exercise, we prefer to stick to her normal routine as much as safely possible. We also want to ensure there is plenty of time for food prep and cleaning, depending on how your system for bunny care is set up.

 

Rabbit Option #3

This is an ideal schedule for rabbits that need feeding once a day.

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive and check on your bunny. She can come out to play, explore and get some cuddles. Her sitter will clean up her cage and litter box, give her fresh food and water and make sure her behavior is normal. After some exercise, your bunny can go back in her cage for breakfast and treats (if you say so). Your sitter will set her up for the day and send you and update to let you know she is doing great! 

Our Considerations for Rabbits

For rabbits, there are some very specific steps we take to keep them as safe and relaxed as possible.

  • Rabbits can take some time to warm up to new people and we want to do that as safely as possible, for your bunny and your sitter. If your bunny has playtime outside of her normal housing, at first we may want to keep your rabbit in a smaller play area until we can be sure she will go back into her enclosure or allow the sitter to pick her up when play time is done. We do not want to scare your bunny or risk injury by needing to chase her! Once she is used to her sitter then we can expand the play area to her normal space if it is larger, or a run of the house if that is normal.
  • If your bunny is going to be coming out for playtime, that visit will need to be at least 30 minutes long to provide enough time for everything to be completed.
  • For rabbits that will not be coming out for playtime, we can usually manage 15 minute visits unless there is a lot of food prep or extra tasks. If there is then we will often need a 30 minute visit to get everything taken care of.
  • If your rabbit is more active at a particular time of day, then we will want to schedule your longer visits during that time so she can have some fun! Some bunnies love morning playtime, some love the warm afternoons and some like to zip around before dinner!
  • Your sitter will want to know the routine of your bunny and any normal behavior changes. It is not unusual for bunnies to be sleepy at one time of the day and very active at another time, and all bunnies are different. If we know these behaviors then we can keep an eye out for any lethargy that is out of place.
  • Rabbits are prone to gastrointestinal issues that can be harmful very quickly. Rabbit owners often have medical supplies on hand and special veterinarians to reach in an emergency. Your sitter will need all of that information on hand in case any concerns arise.
  • If you are leaving for a long trip, we are willing and able to purchase fresh veggies at your request. We will schedule a separate visit time and arrange a method of payment to cover the food purchases.
  • Rabbits need a lot of mental stimulation and we want to help with that. If there are toys she likes or games she likes to play, please show your sitter so we can have fun and make the most of our visits!

Time to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your hens, 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 pet! After you have the 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 have time to clean out food and water bowls, clean up any messes, etc.
  • Many people who love animals, also love plants! Short visits do not have a lot of time for plants. If you need the sitter to water more than 1-2 plants, we will need to schedule a longer visit for those days. If you have beautiful summer gardens, then we need to see how long they take to water and add that on to your normal visits.
  • Household tasks such as; bringing in the newspaper, collecting the mail, turning lights off and on and taking out the trash. This can all be done on your normal schedule.
  • Do you want updates every visit? Many clients do, just keep in mind that your sitter will take a couple minutes to send an update.
  • Keep in mind that 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. That way they will not feel stressed and your pets will receive the focus they deserve.

Work With Us to Keep Your Rabbit Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!