Tag Archive for: cat

What You Need to Know About Cat Body Language

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Cats can seem pretty baffling to people, even those who live with them. As pet sitters in Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley, Colorado, we work with a lot of cats and have to know how to be safe and read their body language. Today we try to demystify cats and give you a few clear signals to watch out for, so you can get along better with all of the cats in your life.
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CLICK HERE for a Beginner’s Guide to Cat Behavior

Pet Lovers Guide to Windsor

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Are you one of the many pet lovers living in Windsor? Or maybe you are thinking of getting a pet soon. Either way, eventually you will need a Pet Sitter, Dog Walker, Cat Sitter, Vet, Dog Trainer, Groomer, Rescue or Pet Shop.

But how do you find the best solution for you and your pets? We have put together a list of resources for pet lovers to make this easier for you!

 

Windsor Pet Sitter

Pet Lovers Guide to Windsor

Choosing the right pet sitter for your pet can be difficult. You want to ensure your sitter is correct for your household and your pets. Because of that, we put together an ebook A Pet Owner’s Guide to Hiring a Pet Sitter or Dog Walker to give you all of the information you need to hire a pet sitter that is a good match for you.

Download our printable checklist on Hiring a Pet Sitter or Dog Walker to help in your search.

To learn more about our pet sitters take a look at our About Us page. To learn about our services, visit our Services page.

If you have a pet sitter and want to make sure you are prepared for your trip, download our Preparing for Your Pet Sitter Checklist.

 

Windsor Dog Walker

Dog walkers are great for dogs who have a lot of energy and people who do not have enough time. A dog walk can be nice for a day when you work late, or just cannot get away to take out your pup. To learn about how to hire a dog walker, take a look at our ebook A Pet Owner’s Guide to Hiring a Pet Sitter or Dog Walker. This can guide you through why you may need a dog walker, how they work and how you find one that is a wonderful match for your household.

If you want to learn about the Benefits of Regular Dog Walks, read our recent article. If you want to learn about our dog walking services, take a look at our services page.

 

Pet Supply Stores Around Windsor

Windsor is not as large as Fort Collins but there is still a great place to do your shopping! We are a huge fan of shopping local whenever possible, and we believe locally-owned stores tend to have better-educated employees to give you advice.

We have collected a list of our favorite pet supply stores in town:

A good pet supply store should be able to offer suggestions on products based on your pet’s health needs. Ask some questions and if you do not feel comfortable then try a different store.

 

Windsor Rescues

As such an animal-friendly city, Windsor has a wide variety of rescues. It would be impossible to list them all here, but we wanted to provide you the groups that are large and most likely to be able to meet your needs. Whether you want to adopt a new pet or just have questions, these rescues are all great!

Here are the rescues most likely to be of assistance:

  • Humane Society of Weld County – General shelter for Weld County. They have adoptable animals and accept surrenders.
  • Windsor Animal Control – If you are having an animal-related problem in Windsor contact them at (970) 686-7433
  • Weld County Animal Control – These are the folks you contact for animal issues in unincorporated Weld County.
  • Larimer Humane Society – General shelter for Larimer County. They also house animal control, pet licensing and concerns about rabid wildlife. Although Windsor is in Weld County, parts of Windsor are technically a Fort Collins address.
  • Big Bones Canine Rescue – Specializing in rescue for Mastiffs and Great Danes.

If one of these organizations cannot answer your questions, they will refer you to someone who can.

 

Windsor Veterinarians

With Windsor being so CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital, we are flush with amazing veterinarians. Choosing a veterinarian that is a good fit for you can make a huge difference in the life of your and your pets.

Here is a list of veterinarians in Windsor:

Learn more about each of these clinics to see which one is a good match for you! Best Vets in Windsor

If you need help choosing your new veterinarian, read our recent article 5 Tips to Picking a Veterinarian You Love.

 

Windsor Emergency Veterinarians

When you have a pet emergency, you want to make sure to get the best care for your animal, no matter what time of day! Emergency vet clinics are open 24/7, 365 days a year and can be a lifesaver when you need one. It is important to know where your closest clinic is so you know where to go right away.

Here are emergency veterinary clinics:

 

Windsor Dog Trainers

All dogs can use a little training, whether it be the normal sit and stay or learning how to stop your puppy from chewing on your shoes. Plus training classes can be fun for you and your dog to have some bonding time! Dogs are smart animals and need to use their brains to keep them from getting bored.

Here are trainers that use positive reinforcement training:

When choosing a dog trainer you want to pick one that works with your dog in a positive and fear-free manner.

 

Windsor Dog-Friendly Hotels

If you are coming to Windsor to visit or if you find yourself needing to stay in a hotel for a while, you want to have a hotel that is friendly for your dog.

We have made a list of hotels that are dog friendly and wonderful for you!

If you are visiting Windsor and need to leave your dog while you go out for an activity, consider having a pet sitter come to stay in your hotel. This will give your dog company and make sure she does not get in any trouble while you are gone. We provide extended stays for these types of trips which you can learn about in our services.

 

Windsor Dog Groomers

A good haircut is important to the health and happiness of your dog. Considerate groomers can make the grooming process as easy as possible.

We have collected a list of groomers in Windsor:

If you would like to get tips on how to pick the perfect groomer, read our recent article 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Fort Collins.

 

Self-Service Dog Washes in Windsor

If your dog does not need all the trimmings, it can sometimes be easier to clean them up yourself. It is wonderful to go to a self-service dog wash where you can use their space to get your pup clean without making a mess of your bathroom.

We have collected a list of self-service dog washes in Windsor:

To learn more about costs of using a self-service dog wash, read our recent article How Much Does it Cost to Use a Self Service Dog Wash?

 

Windsor Catteries

When you are traveling you can either hire a pet sitter or board your cat in a cattery. There are advantages of each, and if you decide to board your cat there are a variety of options.

We have collected a list of catteries in Windsor:

If you are considering hiring a pet sitter, look at the advantages of cat sitting and take a look at our services.

 

Dog Boarding Kennels in Windsor

 When leaving town you can either hire a pet sitter or board your dog in a kennel.

We have collected a list of the top places to board your dog in Windsor:

If you are considering pet sitting, read our recent article Why Should I Hire a Dog Sitter, and look at our services.

 

Windsor Doggy Daycare

When your dog needs some extra exercise, you have two options:

  1. Send your dog to daycare
  2. Hire a dog walker to exercise your dog

Dog daycare can be great for well-socialized dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs. If you are unsure if daycare is a good option, read our recent article Doggy Daycare vs Dog Walker.

We are currently unaware of any dog daycares in Windsor. Sorry!

If you are thinking about using a dog walker take a look at our services.

 

Windsor Poop Scooper

If you love your dog but do not love cleaning up after him then you may need a poop-scooping company!

 

Top Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Windsor

During nice weather, it can be a bonus to be able to take your dog with you when you go out to eat. In Windsor we have many, many food options to choose from, so you might as well pick one where you can bring your pup!

These are good pet-friendly restaurants in Windsor:

 

Windsor Dog Parks

In Windsor, folks love their dogs and we want them to have as much fun as possible! For well-socialized dogs, that can mean a trip to the dog park is a wonderful way to get those zoomies out!

Here in Windsor, we have 2 dogs parks, learn about them here!

To learn more about dog park rules in Windsor take a look at this article.

 

Windsor Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails

Hiking is one of the most popular hobbies in Colorado, for good reason. The trails are beautiful all year round and there are many where you can bring your furry friend with you.

Two of our favorite Windsor trails are:

  1. Windsor Lake Trail & Dog Park
  2. Poudre River Trail

 

Do you have a resource you think should be added to the Pet Lovers Guide to Windsor? Let us know via our contact form so we can check it out!

Dogs in Hot Cars – What are the Colorado Laws for Breaking Windows?

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Dogs in Hot Cars - What are the Colorado Laws for Breaking Windows?_Header

During the summer months us animal lovers will often stumble upon dogs left in hot cars. There is always a debate about exactly what to do in this situation, and what you can legally do. I know, we all say we will do whatever needed to save a dog, but it is good to know when the law will back us up. Thankfully a new Colorado law has made provisions for when you can legally break a car window in order to save an animal in distress.

how hot is your car infographic

Steps Before Breaking a Car Window

Take Reasonable Steps to Find the Owner. Write down the license late, make and model of the car, as well as a description of the dog. Ask around inside the building the car is parked in front of. Have an announcement made by the business. Do whatever you can to find the person. Ideally get someone to keep an eye on the dog so that the situation does not become dire while you are looking for the owner.

Check to See if the Car Doors are Unlocked. This may seem silly, but many people in Colorado leave their doors unlocked, especially when their dog is in the car.

Track the Symptoms of the Dog (list of heat stroke symptoms are below). You are only able to break a window if the dog is in immediate distress. This means if the dog is still panting but not yet in heat distress, you are not legally allowed to break the window. Watch for signs that the dog is passing over the threshold into heat stroke.

Contact the Police. Inform them of the situation and that you intend to break a window on the car. You will need the police there to document the situation before you leave.

Take a Video to Prove the Animal was in Distress. This will back up your story to the owner and the police if there is any question.

If the dog is showing signs of distress and the owner is no where to be found, break a window. Make sure this is away from the dog so they are not injured by the glass. Quickly remove the dog from the car and begin administering care to reduce the dog’s body temperature (details below).

Wait for the police to arrive. The police will try to locate the owner and will contact animal control to secure the dog. If the dog needs medical attention, they can help arrange it.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

  • Excessive panting
  • Excessive drooling
  • Reddened gums
  • Dizziness or lack of coordination
  • Glazed eyes
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of consciousness

Treatment

  • Move the dog to a cool area in the shade.
  • Use water to cool down the dog, but not cold water. Water that is too cold will send the dog into shock.
  • Do not give the dog food and only small amounts of water to drink until she is stable. It’s important to hydrate your pets in the summer. Not just when they’re exposed to excess heat.
  • Massage her legs to help circulation.
  • Watch her temperature to make sure it continues to cool (normal is 101-103 degrees F).
  • Seek veterinary attention. Serious heat stroke can cause lingering health problems that need to be treated and monitored.

These steps also apply to cats and any animal that is in a hot car and is distressed. We most commonly see dogs being left in cars because dogs go with us more places. Any animal can be effected by heat.

Summary

We all want to help dogs in distress. Follow these steps to make sure you do not run into any legal trouble for your good deed!

dog in hot car when to break windows infographic

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need For My Cat?

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Are you going out of town but are worried about your cat? Those of us sharing our lives with cats know that they like to stay in their own space and to feel safe and secure. Cats also love routines! Their favorite sleeping spots, times that they eat, when they get attention. Cats like their lives to go just the way they like it and that helps them stay happy and stress-free! You want your cat to be happy so she does not get sick or act out in unpleasant ways. We, as pet sitters, want to make sure your cat gets the care and attention she needs to be happy and healthy. All cats are different! Some cats are happy as long as their food is fresh and litter boxes are clean. Other cats need a person cuddle with during the day and overnight. You need a schedule that match your cat’s preferences and daily schedule!

*If you have a shy cat, take a look at our specialized recommendations for shy cats.

 

Cat Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for cats who are used sleeping in the bed with a person.

 

30 Minute Dinner Visit 

Your sitter will use this visit for dinner, litter box cleaning and playtime and/or cuddles. This visit should come at a time when your cat normally is fed to keep up the regular routine. If your cat likes to be brushed or just get lots of attention, this visit is perfect. Your sitter can also bring in the mail, turn on the lights so it looks like someone is home for the evening, and take care of other small tasks.

9-10 Hour Overnight Stay 

Your sitter will arrive in the evening (around 9 pm) and settle your cat in for the night. Some cats have an evening routine or just really like to play now that it is dark outside. When your cat is ready, you sitter will settle down for the night wherever you (and your cat) think is best. If your cat sleeps with a specific member of the family, then she would probably prefer to have someone in that bed to keep the routine the same. In the morning your sitter will go through the regular schedule of feeding, litter box cleaning, cleaning out water bowls and generally setting your cat up for the day.

 

Cat Option #2

This is a good schedule for cats who like to get some extra attention.

 

30 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter arrives in the morning for breakfast and playtime! Or maybe your cat prefers a warm lap to cuddle with for awhile. Your sitter will take care of breakfast, cleaning the litter box, giving your car fresh water and then will settle in for whatever type of attention your cat prefers. Does she have the morning zoomies? Then a good play session with your cat’s favorite toys is in order! Your sitter will send you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your cat has company. Before leaving, your sitter settles your cat in for the day and makes sure she is comfortable.

30 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will arrive around dinner time. Some cats are more active in the evening (or vice versa) so your sitter can adapt the visit based on your cat’s normal routine. If she prefers cuddles in the morning and playtime in the afternoon, we can do that. This is also a great visit for your sitter to bring in the mail, put out trash for the morning pickup, and any other small tasks that need to be done. At the end of the visit your sitter will make sure your kitty is comfortable for the evening. Some cats like their beds arranged a certain way or a heating blanket turned on for them.

 

Cat Option #3

This is a good schedule for cats who really just want to be fed.

 

15 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and will check on your cat. Then comes feeding, water and cleaning the litter box. These short visits are designed for cats that really do not feel the need for attention and are content to do their own thing. If you have a shy cat, take a look at our special shy cat recommendations.

15 Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter will finish out the day with a check in, feeding, water and litter box. There may be a few moments for bringing in the mail and turning on some lights. Your sitter can send you an update and let you know how the visits went with a cute picture!

 

Our Considerations for Cats

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

  • Your sitter will want to know where your kitty likes to hide and rest. If your cat does not come out to greet us, we want to be sure we know where to look for her so we can make sure she is healthy.
  • Cats that are stressed can stop eating, drinking and using the litter box. We make sure to monitor food, water and litter extra closely to make sure they are being used. If we see any signs of concern we investigate further.
  • We like to get to know details of your cat’s normal behavior. When cats are not feeling well, sometimes the only sign you get is a slight change in behavior. If we know what to look out for then we are much more likely to catch any problems in the early stages.
  • Each cat has a very specific play style. If your cat prefers different toys, we would love to hear that! Does she love toys that fly through the air or ones that creep around corners? If we know what your cat prefers then we can make friends with her faster.
  • If your cat receives medications, we are happy to give them to her. If is is a pill or other mediation that needs to be given directly to your cat (not in food) then we will want to come do a trial visit to make sure she will be accepting of us. If you want to discuss trial visits with us, please Contact Us!
  • If your cat is diabetic, please read up on our recommendations for Diabetic Cats.

 

Time to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your cat, 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 cat!

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 like to allow enough time for feeding, changing water, cleaning the litter box and some cuddles (if your cat is so inclined).
  • There needs to be enough time to clean out food and water bowls, 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 then 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.

Let us Work Together to Keep Your Cat Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!

Best Dog and Cat Quotes

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“If you don’t own a dog, at least one, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be something wrong with your life.” – Roger Caras

 

 

“Everything I know I learned from dogs.” – Nora Roberts

 

“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.”– Orhan Pamuk

 

“Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault, really.” – Agnes Sligh Turnbull

 

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” – Roger Caras

 

“Some of my best leading men have been dogs and horses.” – Elizabeth Taylor

 

“The better I get to know men, the more I find myself loving dogs.” – Charles De Gaulle

 

“Dogs never bite me. Just humans.” – Marilyn Monroe

“I am fond of pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.” – Winston Churchill

 

“If you don’t own a dog, at least one, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be something wrong with your life.” – Roger A. Caras

 

“If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and man.” – Mark Twain

 

“Reason No. 106 why dogs are smarter than humans: Once you leave the litter, you sever contact with your mothers.” – Jodi Picoult

 

“What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight; it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” – Dwight D Eisenhower

 

“My father… was a man who understood all dogs thoroughly and treated them like human beings.” – Flann O’Brien

 

“A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down.” – Josh Billings

 

“Until one has loved an animal a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

 

“I wish I could write as mysterious as a cat.” – Edgar Allen Poe

 

“One small cat changes coming home to an empty house to coming home.” – Pam Brown

 

“The love of a dog is a pure thing. He gives you a trust which is total. You must not betray it.” – Michel Houellebecq

 

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings

 

“Who ever said that Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, never owned a dog.”

 

“Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail.” – Kinky Friedman

 

“As wonderful as dogs can be, they are famous for missing the point.” – Jean Ferris

 

“Happiness is a warm puppy.” – Charles Shultz

 

“Did you know that there are over 300 words for love in canine?” – Gabriel Zevin

 

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” – Will Rogers

 

“You can usually tell that a man is good if he has a dog who loves him.” – W. Bruce Cameron

 

“I don’t understand people who don’t touch their pets. Their cat or dog is called a pet for a reason.” – Jarod Kintz

 

“When an 85-pound mammal licks your tears away, then tries to sit on your lap, it’s hard to feel sad.” – Kristan Higgins

 

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.” – Gilda Radner

 

“The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity, but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his.” – James Thurber

 

“The greatest fear dogs know is the fear that you will not come back when you go out the door without them.” – Stanley Coren

 

 

“Dogs are wise. They crawl away into a quiet corner and lick their wounds and do not rejoin the world until they are whole once more.” – Agatha Cristie

 

“My dog is half pit-bull, half poodle. Not much of a watchdog, but a vicious gossip.” – Craig Shoemaker

 

“Every dog must have his day.” – Jonathan Swift

 

“Anybody who doesn’t know what soap tastes like never washed a dog.” – Franklin P. Jones

 

“The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven not man’s.” – Mark Twain

 

“The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.” ~ Andy Rooney

 

“Time spent with cats is never wasted.” – Sigmund Freud

 

“Kisses are a better fate than wisdom.” – EE Cummings

 

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings

 

“To his dog, every man is Napoleon; hence the constant popularity of dogs.” – Aldous Huxley

 

“Cats are inquisitive, but hate to admit it.” ~ Mason Cooley

 

“I have studied many philosophers and many cats. The wisdom of cats is infinitely superior.” ~ Hippolyte Taine

 

“There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.” – Albert Schweitzer

 

“I believe cats to be spirits come to earth. A cat, I am sure, could walk on a cloud without coming through.” – Jules Verne

 

“It doesn’t matter if a cat is black or white, so long as it catches mice.” – Deng Xiaoping

 

“What greater gift than the love of a cat?” – Unknown

 

“Dogs leave paw prints on our hearts” – Author Unknown

 

“I love my cats more than I love most people. Probably more than is healthy.” – Amy Lee

 

“Dogs are how people would be if the important stuff is all that mattered to us.’’ – Ashly Lorenzana

 

 

See Our Cute Pet Pictures!

6 Tips to Pill a Cat

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Cats can seem impossible to pill but we have a few tips that can make the process a little easier.

  1. Stress is the worst part of medicating your cat. Giving a cat a pill is hard if your cat can run away. Make sure she is contained in a room where she cannot hide under or behind anything.
  2. Get everything prepared before you move towards your cat. Have it all ready and accessible.
  3. The key to a smooth process is to be confident and calm.
  4. Sit next to your cat. The less you have to restrain your cat, the better.
  5. Grab her head or mouth. Cats have a gap in their teeth (easier seen in the video). Insert a finger there and when your cat opens her mouth, pop in the pill. Push it far back so it goes down her throat.
  6. If you cannot get the pill all the way back, hold her mouth closed and stroke her throat until she swallows.

 

 

Our pet sitters can easily help assist your cats with their pills while you’re on vacation or even just at work. Don’t hesitate to give us a call if you need any extra hands to help you cat get well!

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need For My Shy Cat?

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Are you going out of town but are worried about your shy cat? Those of us sharing our lives with shy cats know that they require some special love and attention. As pet sitters, the last thing we want to do it scare your kitty or make her more nervous. We want her to be comfortable and feel as safe as possible in her own home. We also want to make sure she is healthy and you have peace of mind, so we work to find the balance of care that is best for you and your kitty!

 

shy cat

Shy Cat Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for cats who are usually fed twice a day.

15 Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and enter your home. These visits are just enough time to give your kitty fresh food, water and clean the litter box. Your sitter will monitor all of these to make sure you kitty is using them. Your sitter will also quickly peek in on your kitty to make sure she is safe and alert.

15 Minute Dinner Visit

This visit is the same as the breakfast visit. Your sitter can also alternate some lights to make sure your house looks lived in.

Shy Cat Option #2

Cats that need to be checked on once or only need to be fed once a day are the best fit for this option schedule.

15 Minute Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning and enter your home. These visits are just enough time to give your kitty fresh food, water and clean the litter box. Your sitter will monitor all of these to make sure your kitty is using them. Your sitter will also quickly peek in on your kitty to make sure she is safe and alert.

shy cat

Our Considerations for Shy Cats

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

  • Your sitter will want to know where your kitty likes to hide and rest. We will avoid this area except to take a quick peek at your kitty, to make sure she is safe. This space should continue to feel safe for your kitty so we do not want to move into it accidentally.
  • Cats that are stressed can stop eating, drinking and using the litter box. We make sure to monitor food, water and litter extra closely to make sure they are being used. If we see any signs of concern we investigate further.
  • For shy cats, we try to make deliberate noises that are not too loud. That can mean talking, shuffling our feet, humming, etc. By creating some noise it allows the cat to know our location in the house without having to strain or guess. This can eliminate a lot of stress.
  • We love to send updates, but for shy cats, we do not take pictures. We do not want to put that extra stress on your already shy kitty.
    • If you travel regularly and think your shy cat will warm up to an idea of more sitter time, then we can discuss setting up longer visits. During longer visits, your sitter can sit in the same area as your kitty, without getting too close. Your sitter can talk to your kitty or just be present, allowing her to get used to a new person. Sometimes kitties will get used to your sitter and come out to ask for attention! We never push this and it always goes at your cat’s pace. We have had some cats that love their sitter after they have a chance to get to know each other!

shy catTime to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your cat, 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 cat!

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 like to allow enough time for feeding, changing water, cleaning the litter box and some cuddles (if your cat is so inclined).
  • There needs to be enough time to clean out food and water bowls, 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 then 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 Shy Cat Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!

How to Train Your Cat to Walk on a Leash

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January is National Walk to Your Pet Month. Usually, that brings to mind images of walking your dog on a sunny day. But, what if you were walking with your cat instead? You may baulk at the suggestion, but it’s true! Cats can be trained to walk on a leash and they can also end up loving it.

First off, you’ll want to break them into the idea of a leash and harness easily. Cats are very independent by nature, so it’s best not to force them into too much too quickly. And always make sure to give them lots of praise and pets during all interactions while training. After all, we know how much cats love being praised!

leash

Equipment needed

 

  • Harness and Leash

Make sure you’re using a harness and not just a collar. If they try to run up the collar could choke them or break off. The harness will protect their neck and give you more control for their safety.

  • Treats

Get a few healthy treats (a great time for a dental chew treat) to reward them in training. After a while start to eliminate the treats as a reward, but it is a great starting incentive.

Easy Steps To Train Your Cat to Walk on Leash:

 

Step 1: Introduction

Introduce your cat to the harness and leash. Show it to them and let them sniff it. Then leave it laying around their space before you try it on them. This will help them get familiar with it before they have to put it on. Once you’re ready to try it out, put it on them while giving them praises. If they’re okay with it from the start then let them wear it around for a while. If they are not having any of it then take it off and try again tomorrow. Don’t push them. After a successful wear, give them a little treat.

Step 2: Indoor Practice

After they are used to the harness, it’s time to try the leash. Put it on and gently lead them around the house. You will know when they are fed up when they refuse to stand or move or when their tail switches or they flatten their ears. Put down treats in a line (think Hansel & Gretel) to get them to move forward. Walk around to their favorite spots for a little while so they can get acclimated to being tethered.

Step 3: Outside Adventure

Once they are used to the leash and harness indoors it is time to venture outside a little bit. Start in the quietest part of the yard and slowly let them explore the area around the door. Each time try to get them into going a little farther on each walk. Hopefully, within a few days or weeks, they’ll be loving their leash and the great outdoors.

 

Tips to Keep in Mind

 

  • Always consider your cat’s temperament. Some cats may take to walking much faster than others. Some can be comfortable within a week or two, some can take close to a month.
  • Expect a few setbacks. It’s possible that your cat will love a walk one day and the next something is different or scares them and they may freak out.
  • Never leave them alone or tethered on the leash.
  • Don’t let them climb trees while walking.

 

It may seem like an impossible task, but it isn’t! Your cat gets all the same benefits of walking as do dogs and ourselves. It’s a great way for them to be stimulated, get exercise and enjoy the sunshine.

Do you ever walk with your cat? Let us know on our Facebook page or in the comments below!

 

Cold Weather Precautions for Pets

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With winter weather upon us, we need to ensure we are taking care to ensure our pets are properly protected against the cold weather and elements. Many things are simply overlooked by pet owners however there are something’s that are not understood by us humans. Yes…..pets do get cold. They feel the cold and they do suffer from cold environments.

admin-ajaxPlease, take a moment to read some tips for cold weather precautions and how to keep your pet safe and warm this winter season:

  • Caution with the Salt. Many snow laden cities utilize salt in order to melt frozen snow. Please note that this is very irritating to your pet’s paws. So when taking Fido for a walk, please make sure you don’t parade him thru salted areas. If he does get some on his paws, wipe them up when you return home.
  • Keep your pet hydrated. They will still require a lot of water during the winter months. They burn a large amount of energy in an effort to keep warm. Access to water all year is a must. If your pet is outside for a few hours, leave the water but remember to not put the water in a metal bowl as it will cause your pet’s tongue to stick and freeze to that surface.
  • Pets love to be indoors, despite what some humans think. Fido is not at his happiest when he is locked outside, especially when it is freezing out. Yes, dogs love walks and parks and playing but if you’re with them! Don’t leave your pup outside in the cold. Wind-chill can threaten your dog’s life and he can suffer frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Antifreeze is a NO NO! Please pay close attention to any that may be lurking on the ground. It tastes sweet and will lure your pet towards it. Clean it up! It is toxic to ALL animals.
  • Provide your dog with a warm place to sleep. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, some well-intentioned pet owners forget that a tile or linoleum floor or heck, even a carpeted floor is simply not enough sometimes. The floors are extremely cold and are especially troublesome for a senior pet.

These are just a few cold weather precautions to keep your pet safe as the temperature drops. So as you are getting your house, your car and your family ready for the cold weather, stop and think about your pets! And remember, cold weather usually means New Years and fireworks are right around the corner. Here are some Fireworks Safety Tips to keep in mind.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

Tell us – what are you doing this year to keep your pet safe from the cold?

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

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Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

 

You can keep your pet safe this Halloween with our Halloween pet safety tips. It’s the time for ghouls, ghosts, and candy! But not everything is fun for your pets.
 

Make sure your pets have an ID tag

 
Pets can get lost during Halloween. Make sure your pets are wearing an ID tag or have a microchip in case they run off.
 

Create a clam place for your pets to relax

 
The constant ringing of the doorbell can be pretty stressful for both cats and dogs. Most of our pets are highly attuned to and affected by the sound of our doorbell ringing. They can often go bonkers at a single ring. Let alone a series of rings in a short amount of time. Set your pet up in a quiet back room with a radio or TV playing softly to drown out the noise. Noise generators like the ones found on mynoise.net can be soothing. This will help keep them safe and calm during the peak hours of trick or treating.
 
All pets should stay inside during Halloween, but Halloween can be an especially dangerous time for cats. Black cats, in particular, are targets for naughty neighborhood kids. They can be chased, shot at with BB guns, or otherwise messed with by kids looking to get into mischief. In our home, we make sure to lock our cats indoors from late afternoon until the next morning.
 

Be careful where you place lit candles

 
Lit candles add atmosphere but can turn into a hazard. A swinging tail or a startled cat can send a lit candle flying. You don’t want to be calling the fire department on Halloween.
 
Instead, consider battery operated candles. These pose less of a fire hazard and you won’t have to worry about them burning out during the party.
 

Keep chocolate and sweets out of reach

 
Most of us know that chocolate is toxic for dogs. But candy, in general, can cause a lot of gastrointestinal distress to our pets. Dogs don’t exactly seek out candy, they will pretty much eat anything that catches their noses. Cats can also get into candy but are less likely. That’s why it’s best to keep your Halloween candy stash out of your pet’s reach. Don’t forget to check out our post on Halloween Candy Safety for more details.
 
If you pet does get into large amounts of candy, seek veterinary care immediately.
 

Practice decoration and costume safety

 
Decorations can pose threats with wires, ribbons and open flames in pumpkins. Make sure to keep an eye on your pets around any tricky decorations that could harm them. Also, if you’re going to dress up your pet it’s good to be aware of costume dangers. This applies to pet costumes as well! If your pet doesn’t want to dress up, don’t dress them up.
Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween is tons of fun for both children and adults, but it can be pretty confusing and a little scary for our pets. They don’t understand what it is all about. Think about what goes through the heads during Halloween. Why do their family members look so funny? What are all these crazy loud decorations that go “BOO!” and make creepy music when people walk by them? And why do all these strange people keep ringing the doorbell??? It’s no wonder that they need a little help staying safe during this spooky holiday. With these Halloween pet safety tips you and your pet will have a safe, fun time this Halloween.