Tag Archive for: adopt

How to Choose a Cat That’s Right for You

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How to Choose a Cat That’s Right for You

Welcoming a new animal into your home is a big step. So how do you make sure that the cat you’re adopting is the right one for you? We’ve put together some of the most common factors in choosing a cat that’s right for you.

Size


How big or small is your space? Cats do best in pairs, do you have enough room for 2 cats? While cats don’t come in as varied of sizes as dogs, some breeds like Maine Coons (8-25lbs) are much larger than your standard house cat (8-11lbs). Do you want a large cat or a smaller cat?

 

 

 

Activity Level


Not all cats are lazy. Some cats really like to play – like Bengals. Are you looking for a more sedentary cat or do you want one that’s always on the go?

 

 

 

 

Physical Maintenance


Some cat breeds require more grooming than others – especially long hair cats! Are you able to keep up with a regular grooming schedule? For example, Persians need groomed one a month.

 

 

 

 

Age


Kittens require the most training and attention and can be a wild-card for personality. While an adult cat will give you a better idea of their energy level, attitude, and temperament. How about letting a senior cat spend their golden years with you?

 

 

 

 

Breed


Do you want a purebred cat? What about a domestic house cat (aka a mutt)? If you’re looking for a specific breed check with local rescues in your area that specialize in that breed or research reputable cat breeders.

 

 

 

Congratulations on your new friend! We hope you two have many happy years together. Despite what many people may think, cats can’t be left alone for days at a time. If you’re planning on going out of town, Wet Noses Pet Sitting can help with cat visits. From short visits to overnights, we can custom tailor a schedule for you and your cats needs.

If there’s any other important tips for choosing a cat that’s right for you that we missed, let us know in the comments.

How to Choose a Dog That’s Right for You

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How to Choose a Dog That’s Right for You

Welcoming a new animal into your home is a big step. So how do you make sure that the dog you’re adopting is the right one for you? We’ve put together some of the most common factors in choosing a dog that’s right for you.

Size


How big or small is your space? Do you have room for a large dog? Are you able to comfortably handle a dog that weighs 100lbs or 10lbs?

 

 

 

 

Activity Level


Are you a person who is always on the go and wants a walking companion? Or are you more sedentary and like to stay at home?

 

 

 

 

Physical Maintenance


Some dog breeds require more grooming than others – especially long hair dogs! Are you able to keep up with a regular grooming schedule?

 

 

 

 

Age


Puppies require the most training and attention and can be a wild-card for personality. While an adult dog will give you a better idea of their energy level, attitude, and temperament. How about letting a senior pup spend their golden years with you?

 

 

 

 

Breed


Do you want a purebred dog? What about a mutt? If you’re looking for a specific breed check with local rescues in your area that specialize in that breed or research reputable dog breeders.

 

 

 

Congratulations on your new friend! We hope you two have many happy years together. Finding yourself needing help getting all of those daily walks in? Wet Noses Pet Sitting can help! We can custom tailor a dog walking schedule to your new dogs needs. We also offer puppy visits!

If there’s any other important tips for choosing a dog that’s right for you that we missed, let us know in the comments.

10 Reasons to Adopt a Golden Retriever this International Golden Retrievers Day

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10 Reasons to Adopt a Golden Retriever this International Golden Retrievers Day

Looking for reasons to adopt a golden retriever? With International Golden Retriever Day right around the corner, you may be asking yourself, “Is it time to bring a sweet golden fur baby into my life?!” Well, if you’re on the fence, let this help you decide! Here are 10 reasons you should adopt a golden retriever (as if you needed another)!

1. They have HUGE hearts!

The golden retriever breed is most known for its phenomenal temperament. These golden babies not only have a bright sunny coat but a sunny disposition to match! Often used as therapy
dogs for a wide range of patients, golden’s are loving pets that will warm your hearts with their capacity to care!

2. They are so gentle.

Originally bred as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are known to have “soft mouths” or bite inhibition. This means they are extremely gentle natured and less likely to chomp down on stray
fingers that may find their way to your pets mouths. This makes them excellent pets for homes with young kids!

3. They’ll enrich your life as much as you enrich theirs

Golden retrievers live to please! As much as you will love them (and you will LOVE your golden friend), they will love you back tenfold! Nothing beats coming home after a long day to
someone who celebrates your arrival with unbridled love and affection! They truly are an instant mood booster!

golden retriever

4. They are very compliant when it comes to training!

Golden retrievers are renowned people-pleasers. This makes them easy-to-train pets! They are highly intelligent which makes them capable of a wide variety of tasks whether it be assisting a
visually-impaired patient or simply coming when they are called. They’re some of the easiest dogs to walk. Just another reason these devoted pups make an excellent extension to your pack!

5. They are the perfect pet for homes with animals already.

Due to their gentle, loving disposition, golden retrievers are also naturally highly social! This makes them an awesome addition to homes with already-established pets! Of course, their
curious nature will encourage them to explore and sniff out any new friends, but their amicable nature prevails through and through!

6. They have a relatively long life expectancy.

Golden’s make a great addition for many reasons, but another bonus is their life expectancy! The average lifespan of a golden retriever is about 10-13 years! If you are looking for a long-term
companion look no further! Their loyal demeanor will stick by your side for as long as they are with you!

adult cream golden retriever laying on floor

7. They will brighten your home and your day!

Golden retrievers come in a wide variety of shades of their signature golden hue. From cream to a dark goldenrod, their array of sunny shades also translates into their bright personalities!
Generally happy-go-lucky pups, Golden Retrievers have an infectious smile that is sure to bring happiness to all who get the pleasure of meeting them!

8. They’ll enjoy the outdoors as much as your family does!

Due to their breed history, golden retrievers are moderately active dogs who require at least 40 minutes of exercise a day to maintain the happy, healthy life they truly deserve! Couple their
athletic, sporting nature with their obedience and loyalty, and you have a new companion in whatever outdoor hobbies you may want to pursue! Adopting a new pet can also encourage you to get outside more and enjoy the fresh air!

9. They aren’t big diggers or droolers.

Besides the ongoing list on why golden retrievers make an amazing addition to your house, an added bonus is they aren’t big droolers like some larger breeds are! On top of this, you needn’t
worry about your garden because golden’s aren’t keen on digging either! This makes them comparably less messy than some other breeds, good news for the neat and tidy home makers!

golden retriever lying on green grass field during daytime

10. They are the best family pets!

Overall, golden retrievers are known for their happy, loving disposition. They are loyal until the very end, and will bring nothing but happiness to whomever they encounter. They are extremely
gregarious making them great for homes with kids or already established pets. If you’re looking to celebrate International Golden Retriever Day this February 3rd, you may want to introduce a
gentle, loving, furry friend into your home!

There you have it! 10 reasons to adopt a golden retriever this International Golden Retriever Day! Did we miss any of your favorite reasons for adopting a golden retriever? Let us know in the comments!

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

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Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions Header

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

Everybody has their reasons why cats make wonderful companions. But what if you’re on the fence about adopting a feline companion? Here are 10 of our reasons why cats make wonderful companions.

1. Cats are independent.

Cats are known for being more independent than dogs. Some people prefer this in a cat, others prefer bullet point number 2.

2. But they also can be cuddle bugs.

Nothing beats a warm cat curled up in your lap or having your cat follow you around. Some cats love to be around people and “participate” in the discussion.

3. They’re great apartment pets.

Cats tend to require less space than dogs, don’t require a yard, multiple walks daily, and don’t have to be let out to go to the bathroom every few hours. This makes them ideal apartment pets. Bonus points if you’re on a higher floor.

4. Lower maintenance than dogs.

Not into going for walks? Cats can be trained to walk on a leash but if that isn’t your thing that’s fine! Cats also don’t have to be professionally groomed as regularly as dogs – though their nails do need trimmed frequently and long haired cats especially need brushed.

5. Cats cost less to care for than dogs.

Toys don’t typically get destroyed around cats meaning they don’t need replaced as often. Having a smaller animal means less monthly expenses on pet food. Cat veterinary bills also tend to be a bit lower than dogs because of their smaller size.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t splurge on your cat or get a pet when you cannot afford one in your monthly budget. Cats still need:

  • Quality food
  • Litter
  • Annual veterinary examinations
  • Toys
  • Pet insurance – while optional is still a great thing to have

6. Cats are good for your health.

Purring is actually a way cats heal themselves and you! “Cats purr during both inhalation and exhalation with a consistent pattern and frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. Various investigators have shown that sound frequencies in this range can improve bone density and promote healing.”[1] Plus they’re fun to watch. If you’re ever in a bad mood go watch some cat videos.

7. They can be a natural pest-control.

Not every cat is a great hunter but when they are they can be a great natural pest-control. Just make sure they’re up to date on their vaccines and dewormed regularly. If you do find your cat bringing you a lot of rodents or other creatures be sure to contact your local pet control.

8. Cats are renowned for keeping themselves clean.

Felines spend an average of 5 hours grooming themselves each day. This helps to keep dirt and tangles out of their fur which is why they require less professional grooming appointments.

9. Cats are quiet.

Need I say more?

10. They bring us joy and entertainment.

Cats are fun to watch. That’s why they’re the ruling class of the internet.

You’re sold! You want to get a cat! But, a cat doesn’t factor into your current lifestyle or budget. If that’s the case considering volunteering at your local shelter or humane society. This can provide you with that feline companionship you want while also not having to stress about full-time care-giving.

These aren’t all the reasons why cats make wonderful companions! Every cat is unique and provides a different cat owner experience. Why do you think they wonderful companions? Tell us in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

How Do I Figure Out Which Pet to Adopt?

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If you are looking for a new pet, figuring out the right one to adopt can be a hard choice. Here I walk you through the questions you need to consider in order to make the right decision for you!

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Pet

  • What is your lifestyle like?
  • Do you have allergies to fur/dander?
  • Do you travel often?
  • Are you looking for a low maintenance or high maintenance pet?
  • What is your personality like?
  • How small/big of a pet would you like?
  • What can you realistically afford in terms of animal care?

We discuss details on each aspect and what to consider in the video. Once you have had time to think about all of these questions you will have a much better idea of what type of pet is a good fit for your household!

 

More Ideas When Adding a New Pet

Why You Should Adopt 2 Kittens

Getting a Dog – Complete Checklist for New Dog Owners

Getting a Cat – Complete Checklist for New Cat Owners

Why You Should Adopt 2 Kittens

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It seems like taking on one new kitten will be a big enough task, but now I am telling you to adopt two?!!! I must be crazy! But the truth is, there are a lot of advantages to adopting multiple kittens at the same time. I list the reasons here, but to watch the kittens play and get some more explanation, you really should just watch the video.

1. They are adorable! And they entertain each other.

Playing with a single kitten is a lot of fun, but watching two kittens play might be the closest thing to heaven you will experience in this world. Kittens need a ton of playtime, cuddles, and entertainment. That is wonderful when you are home from work in the evenings or weekends, but what about when you are gone all day? Or if you come home and are exhausted? A pair of kittens together can entertain each other and do not need quite as much time from you. And when they get tired they still all want to come and curl up on your lap. Awwww!

2. Kittens need to meet other animals when they are young.

Unless you arrange kitten play-dates, having multiple kittens may be your kitten’s only chance to play with other cats at a young age. Even if you ave an older cat, there is no guarantee she will want to play with this new upstart invading her space. Having multiple kittens lets them learn how to play with another cat in an appropriate way.

3. It increases the chances of a lifetime feline friend.

While there is no guarantee, adopting multiple kittens together increases the chances that they will be friends for life. Naturally, cats are territorial and really like their own space. It is easier for cats to be friends when they have been raised together in the same home.

 

If you want to see other videos of our cute kittens and learn more pet care tips, follow us on YouTube!

Why Some People Don’t Own Pets

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I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t imagine an existence without pets. I’ve shared my life with a pet for as long as I can remember, loving them, losing them, and welcoming new ones over the years. So for me, and probably many of you, it’s hard to understand why some people choose to not have pets. I mean, don’t they know what they’re missing?

 

The American Humane Association (AHA) and PetSmart Charities conducted a study to learn more about pet companions -specifically why some people don’t have pets -in an effort to develop more effective strategies for helping homeless pets get adopted and find their forever homes. The AHA believes the first step in minimizing the number of homeless dogs and cats is to understand why some people don’t have pets. Here’s what the study found:

 

Data was collected from 1,500 people without pets who either had a dog or cat once in their lives, or never at all. Some reasons for not having a pet were predictable, including: “Pets cost too much money,” or “I don’t have the time,” or “I’m allergic.” But researchers were shocked to learn nearly 20 percent of the study participants who did have a dog or cat at one time (and only one time) never welcomed another pet to their home because they were still suffering from the loss of their previous pet. This finding made it clear to the AHA that they need to better appreciate the human-animal bond and celebrate a person’s prior pet, which will hopefully allow then to take the next step of caring for another pet.

 

Cats vs. Dogs

 

Some of the non-pet participants admitted they simply don’t like companion animals, and over one-third expressed their dislike of cats. 45 percent who had a dog at one time said they would consider having another pet, while only 34 percent who had a cat said the same. Of the participants who never had a pet before, 25 percent would consider a canine companion, but only 10 percent would bring home a feline friend. These results helped identify a need for feline-friendly education and training for both pet parents and veterinary staff at the AHA to increase the level of care kitties receive.

 

Additional Findings

 

  • The longer a pet parent waits after the loss of a pet, the less likely he or she is to welcome a new dog or cat to the home.
  • 10 percent of previous dog parents and 12 percent of previous cat parents said they gave away or sold their pet for reasons such as housing restrictions, behavioral issues, allergies, lack of time, death in the family, or divorce.
  • Less than 23 percent of previous pet parents adopted their pet from a shelter or rescue agency.
  • Nearly 65 percent of study participants said they would adopt their next pet.
  • Of the participants over the age of 65, over 90 percent of them said they had no intention of having a canine or kitty companion.

 

 

What the AHA and PetSmart Charities Learned

 

  • A plan of action is needed to help address negative attitudes toward cats, and cat adoption strategies would have improved results if targeted toward younger prospective pet parents.
  • They need to better understand barriers to pet adoption, such as the grief over a lost pet, and work to reduce existing obstacles such as housing restrictions and financial constraints.

 

Hopefully, with this information in hand, both the AHA and PetSmart Charities will develop a strategy to attract new adoptees, reduce the shelter populations, and match potential pet parents with their forever friends. However, as all pet parents know, pets are a big responsibility.You should never push a pet on someone who is not ready. The best thing you can do for your non-pet owning friends is educate them on the upsides and downsides of being a pet parent and try and ease their concerns about pet ownership.

 

Why Mutts are Fantastic!

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Did you know October celebrates “Adopt-a-Dog Month,” sponsored by the American Humane Association, and “Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month,” sponsored by the ASPCA? And did you know 75% of the dogs in shelters are mixed-breeds, or mutts? In honor of those precious mutts waiting for their furr-ever families, here’s a list of reasons why mixed-breeds are truly mutt-tastic!

1. They come in all sizes, with short, long, curly or wiry coats in every color; they have small ears that stand straight up, big floppy ears that wave in the wind, droopy ears that drag the ground; some have short legs, long legs, big fluffy tails, long tails, or no tail at all. Whatever you’re looking for in a canine companion, the mutts have it!

2. Perhaps you’re looking for a very social dog who can help you meet new people, or one who is security conscious and has a flare for barking when he hears a knock on the door. Want a four-legged walking partner, or a lap dog who enjoys long petting sessions on the couch? Whatever your lifestyle, there’s a mutt out there who will fit right in.

3. Animal shelter adoption fees are much more affordable than the cost of a purebred dog. But, keep in mind, every dog requires a financial commitment in order to ensure a happy and healthy addition to your family. All breeds, whether pure or mixed, require a nutritious diet, routine vet visits, grooming supplies, bedding, toys, various other odds and ends, and most importantly, love, affection and dedication.

4. Mutts are just as trainable as purebreds; many are even great athletes! Looking for a four-legged family friend? One that will obey commands, play with your kids, maybe even compete in dog agility contests? A mutt can do all these things and more!

5. While this isn’t a characteristic of a mutt itself, welcoming one into your family means you are saving a life. Adopting a magnificent mutt means there’s one less animal languishing in the system.

They may be mixed breeds… mutts… mongrels… Heinz 57… but no matter what nickname you give them, mutts are no less wonderful for their unknown ancestry. And there’s likely one waiting just for you, ready to be your perfect canine companion!

Can’t adopt right now? Well, there are other ways you can help the mutts and homeless animals out there in our nation’s shelters. Here are some simple ways to help:

1. Contact your local shelter or rescue group and ask if they have a donation wish list or other flyer you can post around your neighborhood, office, health club, etc. They may be holding special events for Adopt-a-Dog Month / Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month which you can help promote.

2. Sign up to be a foster parent or shelter volunteer.

3. Donate funds to your local shelter in honor of Adopt-a-Dog Month / Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month.

4. Pass on an understanding of the importance of pet adoption to the next generation. Talk to your kids, your friends’ kids and young family members about animal shelters and why pet adoption is important.

With so many great options in shelters all over America, a mixed breed dog is a great choice for your next furry family member.

 

3 Things to Do With A New Puppy

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Getting a new puppy is a very exciting time. There are so many things to do, like puppy proofing and potty training, that you know will be good for your puppy in the long run. But what other things can you do to make living with your puppy easier and more fun in the future.

The following is a list of three things, that you may not think of, that will make life with your grown up puppy so much easier.

1.Go to the vet

This may seem simple but go to the vet as soon as possible (ideally within the first ten days) when you get a new puppy. This is important because it gives your vet a baseline to compare to if your puppy gets sick.

Additionally, most breeders and shelters will give you a list of vaccinations that your puppy has gotten and the dates. Make a copy of this and give your vet a copy. This will help your vet schedule vaccinations correctly so that your puppy is protected.

Also talk to your vet about the ideal age to spay or neuter your new puppy. In almost all cases, getting your dog fixed is best for his or her health later in life.

2.Poke, prod and pet

This may seem like a weird idea but it will really pay off in the long run. Puppies are much more amiable to being handled than most adult dogs, so take the opportunity to get your puppy used to it.

Practice common, but potentially stressful tasks like clipping bits of your dog’s nails, brushing teeth, and brushing fur.Also practice giving your dog exams. Run your hands over your dog’s body, check inside his ears, open his mouth, pick up his paws. Letting your puppy get used to this now will make vet exams much easier when your puppy grows into a potentially 50 pound dog.

If you have children, or your dog could be around children, the poke part is important. Even the most well behaved and dog savvy kids ( or their friends) may poke or prod your adult dog. Get your puppy used to this and it will minimize the chance of someone getting bitten.

This includes touching your dog while he eats, taking food, bones and toys out of his mouth, moving the bowl and touching his tail. Every time your puppy does not react to these things, positively reinforce this behavior.

3.Train 

Most people who have dealt with puppies know they have very short attention spans, but you can still train them starting at 8 weeks. Just be sure to use short training sessions and be accepting of the fact that your puppy may have forgotten the last session.During early training find the positive reinforcement method you would like to use, such as treats,a clicker, rubs, or toys.

Some important things to teach your puppy:

-Come: I think this is the single most important command your dog will know.If your dog runs away or gets away from you, a well learned come command makes a big difference.

-How to walk on a leash properly: Teach your puppy how to walk by your side and not to pull.It is much easier to teach a 10 pound puppy this than a 50 pound adult dog.

-Not to eat food off the ground:This may sound like an odd one but this means that you teach your puppy to only eat out of people’s hands and bowls.This is really important because it reduces the chance that your puppy (or adult dog) will eat something harmful off the ground.

There are lots of online resources for training puppies, but it is always good to seek out the help of an experienced dog trainer.

Getting a new puppy is a fun time, full of learning for your puppy and you. These tips should help turn your puppy into a well behaved and easy to handle adult do.

4 Ways You Can Help Animals In Shelters

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According to the ASPCA, there are about 7.6 million dogs and cats in United States shelters each year. As much as you and I may want to, we can’t take home 7.6 million dogs and cats. So what can you do to help animals in shelters and the community?

1.Walk

If you walk your dog(or any dog) frequently you can earn credits(which turn into monetary donations) for a local shelter of your choice using a smartphone app called “Walk for a Dog”. You can use this app to log miles walked with your pooch, and share it with other walkers to increase the amount of credit earned for your shelter.

Check out the website here: http://www.wooftrax.com/

2.Donate

In addition to monetary donations, shelters always need supplies like bleach, paper towels, and other odds and ends.Most shelters have a wish list on their website of items they need donated. I generally make these donations after I go shopping at big box stores(like Costco). I usually buy more paper towels than I can keep in my house, so I donate half to a local shelter.

The Fort Collins Cat Rescue also has a kibble supply program. This program gives food donated by local pet stores and individuals to low income pet owners in the community. The rescue takes donations of both kibble and wet dog and cat food. They will take partially opened bags in original packaging. This is a great use for the rest of that bag of food your kitty does not like. Call the Fort Collins Cat Rescue and Spay Neuter Clinic for more information.

Here are some wish lists for shelters in the Fort Collins area:

Fort Collins Cat Rescue and Spay Neuter Clinic: https://www.fccrsnc.org/Donate_MoneyandItems.php

Larimer Humane Society:http://www.larimerhumane.org/donate/wish-list

Animal House:http://www.animalhousehelp.org/wishlist.php

3. Shop for a cause

Amazon has a program called Amazonsmile, which donates 0.5% of your purchase for most items to a charitable organization of your choice. If you shop on amazon a lot that 0.5% of each purchase can really make a difference.

4. Projects at home

These are really fun projects and are great if you have a group of animal loving kids(or adults) to entertain. The United Way of Larimer County has directions for items you can make at home and donate to animal shelters. These projects are simple, low in cost and can make a big difference. Contact the shelter of your choice to see if they will take what you make or have similar projects.

Fleece dog toys:http://uwaylc.org/wp-content/uploads/wordpress/Service-to-go-Fleece-Rope-Dog-Toy.pdf

Cat Blankets:http://uwaylc.org/wp-content/uploads/wordpress/Service-to-go-Cat-Blankets.pdf

Kitty Forts:http://uwaylc.org/wp-content/uploads/wordpress/Service-to-go-Kitty-Forts.pdf

So, while we can’t take every animal in a shelter home, these activities are a great way to help. Also consider volunteering or fostering for a local shelter if you can. Small things make a big diffrence in the life of shelter pets.