Tag Archive for: cat

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried? Header

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried?

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried? Header

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried?

Parasites. No pet owner ever wants to have to deal with them. But did you know nearly a third of all household pets currently have some form of parasite? Yikes! I found this out because I saw one of my cats eating a cricket he had caught and it made me wonder: Do crickets carry parasites that can infect cats? The answer to that question is yes. But is it just crickets that can give my cat a parasite? Sadly, no. Today we’re going to look into the types of parasites your pet can get.

Now, this list isn’t all inclusive. There are many parasites out there but these are some of the more common ones you’ll find in the United States.

Roundworm

Roundworms are by far the most common type of parasitic worm you’ll find in your pets. Nearly all dogs will have roundworm at some point in their lives, usually as puppies.

Hookworms

Hookworms are very similar to roundworms in that they are also an intestinal parasitic worm. These parasites are dangerous because they can cause fatal blood loss.

Tapeworms

You’ve heard of this one! Tapeworms are long, flat worms that live in the intestines. There are a variety of species of tapeworm that can infect your dog:

  • Dipylidium caninum
  • Taenia
  • Echinococcus (uncommon in the United States)

Tapeworms usually don’t make your dog sick and do not cause weight loss but it can happen. If you suspect your dog has tapeworm make sure to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Heartworms

Heartworms are nasty things. Primarily in dogs, heartworm is transmitted via infected mosquitoes. These worms don’t only live in the heart but also the large blood vessels in the lungs. Thankfully monthly preventative chews and other preventative options exist. You can read more about heartworm on our post dedicated to heartworm.

Stomach Worms

Also called Physaloptera worms, these can infect your pet when they ingest an infected cricket or cockroach. Your pet can also become infected by eating another animal, such as a mouse, that has eaten the infected insect.

Some other types of parasites are:

  • Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff – Cats only)
  • Coccidia
  • Ear Mites
  • Fleas
  • Giardia
  • Mange
  • Scabies (Dogs only)
  • Ticks
  • Tocoplasmosis (Cats only)
  • Whipworms

Prevention

Prevention is key. Even indoor animals should be dewormed once a season (every 3 months) unless otherwise instructed by a veterinarian. For some worms, like heartworm, a monthly preventative is recommended for most animals. If you bring a new animal home that has not been dewormed you should schedule a vet appointment ASAP and keep the pet separate from others until they are cleared as some parasites can be transmitted.

Are parasites fatal?

Parasites can be fatal if left untreated. Parasites like fleas can cause severe anemia due to blood loss. You should reach out to your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has a parasite, especially an internal parasite. If you find a stray dog or cat that has a severe case of fleas or mange you should seek veterinary care as soon as possible to minimize blood loss and scarring.

Did you learn something new about parasites and pets? Let us know in the comments.

 

Why do cats groom themselves? Header

Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?

Why do cats groom themselves? Header

Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?

If you’re a cat owner you have noticed that your cat grooms themselves, a lot. While excessive grooming can be a sign of other health issues, the average cat grooms themselves five hours a day. But have you ever wondered if they groom themselves in a specific pattern or why they groom themselves? I had those exact question and decided to look into it further. The answer to the first is

Yes!

Cats groom themselves in a specific pattern. While the pattern isn’t universal amongst all cats if you sit and watch your cat do a full groom session you’ll notice they start in the same spot and go in the same order. Just how humans usually start with washing hair, then face, arms, torso, legs, and finally feet. My one cat starts with his back left side and tail, then his face, chest, and ends with his right side and tail.

But wait, you mentioned a full groom? Is there another type?

Also yes! If you’ve ever gotten really sweaty and just needs a quick rinse then you know how cats feel when they do a quick wash. Quick washes are usually focused on one spot and reserved for when an unfamiliar scent is on them or if their fur gets messed up. An example of a quick groom would be my cat cleaning his tail after he decided to place it on top of my pizza last week. Not only did he enjoy the taste of the pizza of what I couldn’t get out with a paper towel but it helped him to keep his tail nice and clean.

Which leads into…

Why do cats groom themselves?

Cats groom themselves for a variety of reasons but largely it’s to help spread sebum, the natural oils produced, around as well as to keep debris and tangles out of their fur. This doesn’t mean you don’t have to give them a helping hand. Even the most diligent cat can still get tangles that need cut or brushed out. This is especially true in long haired cats. They also may get feces or other hard to get out debris around their sanitary area which may require human intervention.

If you notice your cat excessively grooming – technically called psychogenic alopecia, that could be the sign of a few things:

  • Anxiety
  • Allergies – pollen, fleas, food, etc.
  • Ear mites
  • Pain
  • Stress or boredom

You should consult a veterinarian if you notice your cat excessively grooming to rule out any potential health problems. If all health problems are ruled out you can try maintaining a routine to reduce stress, provide more mental and physical stimulation, and try calming medication (with a prescription) or over-the-counter calming products like pheromones.

Why do cats groom themselves infographic?

Next time you’re bored, go watch your cat groom themselves! Let us know your cats specific grooming pattern @WetNosesPetSitting. It’s fascinating to see all the variations our cats have created.

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work? Header

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work?

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work? Header

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work?

If you have a cat you probably own a cat tree but you might have asked yourself: what are the benefits of a cat tree? Besides being a piece of furniture you can decorate with, cat trees do provide function for our feline companions and are a worthwhile investment if you have the space. Cat trees come in all sizes, colors, styles, and budgets so you’re sure to find one that you like. I recently purchased this one and as you can see – it’s adorable! Not only will it be great for my cats but it’ll also look great in my office.

They help with scratching

Cat trees provide a place for your cat to scratch that you approve of – instead of your sofa. Cats love to scratch. It’s a natural thing they do. Encouraging your cat to scratch in an appropriate place can help lower both of your stress levels.

Cats like high places

My one cat likes to perch on top of the fridge. Why? Because it’s the highest place he can get to to survey his territory. It makes him feel safe that nothing is going to sneak up on him without him noticing.

Provide a safe space

A cat tree can provide a safe haven for a timid cat or a place to get away from another cat that’s bothering them. It can also help to keep the peace as it provides a point of high ground. If you also have guests over, a cat tree can provide some sanctuary. Just make sure your guests know not to disturb your cat when they are on their cat tree.

Which cat tree is right for me?

That depends! Ask yourself:

  • How much space do I have?
  • Where do I plan on putting the cat tree? In a corner? Next to a window? Middle of the room?
  • Does my cat like to scratch, lay on things, or lay in things?
  • Will my cat even use a cat tree?

If you cat is older, they may not enjoy a cat tree – especially if they have other places to lay that are more comfortable. Such as a heated bed. You should ask yourself if you cat will even use a cat tree before investing in one. Consider getting a smaller cat tree to start before upgrading to a big one if that is something you would like to do.

You’ve decided that YES! A cat tree is right for you and your cat. How do you pick the right one? You need to keep a few things in mind when purchasing a cat tree:

Is it safe for my cats?

You want a cat tree that had a solid base that your cat can’t tip over. Usually the listing will say that it has a weighted base. This is especially important for tall cat trees. As your cat climbs they’ll rock it which can increase the likely hood of a non-weighted cat tree tipping over.

Materials are important.

Cats like to lick things. Making sure that your cat tree doesn’t contain toxic or harmful materials is important. Avoid these products in all pet products:

  • Phthalates – Commonly found in Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) toys
  • Bisphenol A (BPA) – Commonly found in plastic
  • Lead – Found in cheaper painted products
  • Formaldehyde – Rarely, if ever, in cat trees but is still used as a preservative
  • Chromium – More common in cheap, imported toys.
  • Cadmium – More common in cheap, imported toys
  • Bromine – Can be found in foam beds as a flame retardant

While not harmful, carpeted cat trees can lead to your cat getting their claw stuck. Which can be distressing and painful if they cannot get it unstuck themselves.

Durability

Nobody wants to have to purchase a new cat tree every 3 months. Wood and sisal cat trees are generally the most durable cat trees on the market. You can always purchase sisal rope from sites like Amazon and re-sisal your cat trees when the rope starts to fray. (You’ll need more than you think!) Additionally, you can cover patches of material that have been ripped off with sisal to keep your cat tree looking great. You don’t need to spend thousands on a cat tree for it to be durable but you may want to spend that extra $50 or $100 for something that is going to last you a few years.

What does your cat like?

My cats dislike hammocks. They won’t use them and I always end up removing the removable ones. They also aren’t a fan of the cubbies the cat trees provide. When you are looking at cat trees consider what your cat likes. You don’t want to buy a cat tree that has 4 hammocks if your cat doesn’t like them.

What is important to you?

Aesthetic? Ease of assembly? Easy to clean? These are things your cat could care less about but things that may matter to you. You don’t want an cat tree that doesn’t match anything, takes 4 hours to put together, and is ruined as soon as your cat throws up on it. Believe me, that easy to clean thing is important. While some of these things might not be easy to identify from just looking at the product you can check reviews before purchasing to see what other consumers are saying.

Picking the right cat tree infographic

There you have it! You have all the tools needed to pick out the perfect cat tree. But do they work? Also YES! It might take some time for your cat to get used to their new furniture but over time they should adjust to it and start to lay on it and enjoy. If your cat doesn’t have an interest in the cat tree you can try:

Which cat tree(s) do you own? Drop some pictures @WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to see your kitties chilling on their towers.

Want to splurge on your cats even more? Here are 5 cat products every cat needs in their life.

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Boulder

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Boulder Header

 

Live in Boulder and need dog grooming? Whether your dog has short or long hair, grooming is very important to keep your dog healthy and happy. In Boulder, Colorado, we have a lot of options for dog groomers, but be sure to check out these options first!


1.) Peak to Peak Grooming

  • Mobile in-home grooming for dogs and cats
  • Boulder, Colorado
  • (303) 442-0269

2.) Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming


3.) The Hydrant


4.) The Peaceful Puppy


5.) Pampered Pooch Grooming


How to Pick the Perfect Dog Groomer:

Cavalier spaniel being bathed

Cavalier spaniel being bathed by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com

If you’re new to getting your dog or cat groomed, don’t hesitate to give your local groomer a call and ask a few questions.

 

Here are some basic tips for making sure you’re picking the right groomer for you:

  • Visit the shop to make an appointment in person
  • Does the staff appear knowledgeable, caring, and gentle?
  • Is the facility well lit and clean?
  • Do the animals have enough room in their cages (they should be able to stand and turn around comfortably)
  • Are dogs and cats caged in separate areas?
  • Does the groomer keep complete pet records (including grooming, medical, vaccination, and emergency contact information)?

Ask your friends and neighbors about their experiences as well. You can never do too much research when it comes to someone handling your fur baby. Don’t feel bad about asking questions or for a tour. A great groomer won’t hesitate to show you around and assuage any anxiety you or your pet feels about the process.

Do you have a favorite place in Boulder for dog grooming?? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About Header

Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About

Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About Header
Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About

Lyme disease is something you may have heard about before but what exactly is it? Today we explore what Lyme disease is, what animals can get Lyme disease, how it’s transmitted, and more.

First up,

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial spread by ticks that involves a skin rash and joint pain. Specifically it is the “bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and rarely, Borrelia mayonii” [Source].

Can only dogs get Lyme disease?

No. Cats, horses, deer, mice, chipmunks, opossums, squirrels, and raccoons can also get Lyme disease.

You should apply a vet-approved flea and tick prevention method to help prevent Lyme disease and discuss vaccination against Lyme disease with your veterinarian.

How are animals infected?

The bacteria is passed through the bite of an infected tick. In most cases, the tick needs to be attached for 24-48 hours before the bacteria can infect the animal. This means, whenever you come back from a walk you should make sure you and your pet do not have any ticks attached to yourselves. You can learn how to remove a tick on the CDC website. There also are tools designed to remove ticks from dogs and cats.

How does Lyme disease affect my dog?

Lameness, fever, or possible bacterial infection in the kidneys or heart can take as long as 5 months to appear. Issues tend to be focused around the elbows and joints. Lyme disease cannot be transferred from dog to dog or dog to human.

What do I do if I suspect my dog is infected?

Some of the common symptoms you need to look out for are:

  • Fever;
  • Generalized stiffness, discomfort, or pain;
  • Lameness (can be shifting, intermittent, and recurring);
  • Loss of appetite;
  • Reduced energy;
  • Swelling of joints

If you have been in tall, grassy areas that may not be treated for ticks and notice these symptoms seek veterinary care.

Can humans contract Lyme disease?

Yes, humans can become infected with Lyme disease. Lyme disease cannot be contracted from your dog or cat that is infected. You can however be infected by a carrier tick that was attached to your pet. If you believe you have Lyme disease call your physician. Lyme disease is diagnosed based on a variety of factors – one of which can be laboratory testing.

Lyme Disease Infographic

Lyme disease isn’t the only disease or illness our pets can get. Make sure you’re aware of how to prevent rabies and heartworm.

What To Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets Header

What to Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets

What To Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets Header

What to Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets?

When you have a cat or dog with diabetes it can be a tough decision when deciding to go out of town because there are a lot of factors to consider such as finding pet sitting for a diabetic pet. We want to walk you through these points of concern and discuss when you should make the choice to stay in town and skip that vacation instead. If you decide it is okay to leave, we have a list of suggestions for pet sitting schedules that we have found work out well for diabetic pets. All pets need amazing care, but without an educated and precise pet sitter, it can be easy for a diabetic pet to become ill.

Want to skip the article? Check out our video below that covers the same information.

Should You Travel?

We are always happy to help out, but there are some factors that need to be considered with diabetic pets before you make the decision to go on a vacation.

  • How long since your pet was diagnosed with diabetes?
    In the early days after diagnosis, you are trying to get your pet’s glucose levels stable. You are often speaking to your vet regularly and adjusting medication levels. This can be hard for a pet sitter to take on.
  • Is your pet stable?
    Meaning are you still needing to adjust medication often and watch your pet’s behavior for concerns?
  • How is your pet accepting the insulin injections and glucose testing?
    If it is hard for you, it will be harder for a sitter.
  • How is your pet about being handled by strangers?
    If your pet does not love being handled (especially cats) then it is going to be tough for a sitter to medicate your pet and do glucose testing.
  • Does your pet have any problems eating when you are gone?
    Pets need to eat before receiving their insulin. If your pet typically does not eat when you are gone then it is going to be hard for a sitter to manage the food and insulin levels consistently.
  • Are you going to be reachable on your trip?
    Whenever there is a problem with a pet, especially a pet with medical problems, we will reach out to you for suggestions and ideas. If you are not able to be reached it will be hard for a sitter to determine the next course of action.

If you are seeing multiple points of concern, then you should consider waiting to travel until your pet is more stable. We are concerned for both your pet, who is not feeling well already, and the safety of the sitter who will be handling your pet in close quarters. If you think this is a good time to travel then we have multiple steps to make sure it goes smoothly!

What To Consider When Scheduling a Pet Sitter for Diabetic Pets Header

Pet Diabetes: Should You Travel Infographic – Click to enlarge 🔍

How do You Prepare to Leave Your Diabetic Pet?

You have decided you are going to travel and want to make sure it goes as well as possible. So do we! Here is what a sitter will need so you can have the best trip:

  • All the data from your veterinarian.
    All of it. This can include normal and abnormal glucose levels, amount of insulin to be given, length of time after eating to give insulin, size of a normal meal, what to do if your pet does not eat, any abnormal behaviors to watch out for, etc. The more information you give your sitter, the more educated decisions she can make.
  • Feeding instructions with contingencies.
    It is not unusual for animals to not eat if they are stressed or not feeling well. If your dog does not eat or your cat hides during a visit, think about what your sitter should do. Do you want the sitter to stay longer (and you pay for the extra time)? Should the sitter leave and come back? Can the sitter mix in some canned food or feed a different food altogether to get your pet to eat? We have been known to sit on the floor and hand-feed pets if that is helpful, we just need to know what you think is best.
  • Normal animal behaviors.
    When your pet is not feeling well, what does she do? The better the list you make, the more we can look for.
  • How to reach you.
    We try to solve problems ourselves, but we never want to mess with the health of a pet. When pet sitting diabetic pets, we like to be able to reach you if we have concerns. This is especially true if you are a new client or your pet has recently been diagnosed with diabetes.
  • How to reach your vet, and permission for us to speak to them.
    You need to let know veterinarian know you will be out of town and who will be caring for your pets. If we cannot reach you, or the situation is urgent, we need to be able to reach a veterinarian quickly and not have to worry about any privacy issues.

We’ve put together a checklist to help you keep all of this information organized and to make sure you have all the information at the ready to provide your pet sitter.

Diabetic Pet Checklist - w/o Image

Checklist – Click to enlarge 🔍

But what if I’m not sure how my pet will do with a sitter?

If you are unsure of how your pet will do with a sitter – we offer trial visits. At Wet Noses Pet Sitting, we require a trial visit for any cat receiving medication. We recommend trial visits for dogs, but only require it if the dog seems nervous during the meet and greet. During a trial visit, you will leave and your sitter will come just like you are on vacation. This will allow us all to observe how your animal reacts to a new person handling them and allow us to flush out any questions your sitter may have.

If you know your pet will have a hard time – schedule multiple trial visits! We are happy to come to work with you for as long as it takes to get your dog or cat comfortable with us. We want everyone to be relaxed and have peace of mind when you do leave.

Petting sitting diabetic pets is something we love and if you can prepare all of this, then you can travel comfortably knowing that your diabetic pet will be well cared for. Now you just need to decide on a schedule! Unlike other pets, diabetic pets need medication every 12 hours. Below are our suggested schedules that are built with that in mind.

Fluffy ginger cat looking up from cardboard box

Fluffy ginger cat looking up from cardboard box by Konstantin Aksenov from NounProject.com

Diabetic Pet Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for diabetic pets who need eyes on them regularly.

 

30 Minute Mid-Day Visit 

Your sitter will use this visit for a walk and/or playtime. It is a good time during the day just to check on your pet and make sure they are feeling okay. If you have a dog, this visit should be set at a time when your dog would normally need to go outside, so it is in line with their normal routine. A visit during the middle of the day like this means that your dog will only be alone for 6-7 hours, depending on the time of the visit. 

12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay 

A 12-hour overnight means your sitter will feed your pet and give insulin at the beginning and end of the stay. Your sitter will arrive in the early evening (around 7 pm) and take your dog for a walk or playtime (if you have one), whichever is normal for them. Then comes feeding and some time for relaxation. Right before bed, your dog goes out for the last outing, usually a potty break. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. In the morning there is time for another walk or playtime and feeding, as well as other pet chores. The Extended Overnight Stay is especially good for dogs and cats who are accustomed to having company and companionship during the evenings or if you have a large number of pets needing care. 

 

Two cavalier spaniels lying next to each other on bed

Two cavalier spaniels lying next to each other on bed by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com

Diabetic Pet Option #2

This is a good schedule for diabetic pets who are used to being home alone in the evening but like having company overnight.

 

30-Minute Dinner Visit

Your sitter arrives ready for a walk (if you have a dog) and dinner time! Your pets will be happy to see them after a day apart, so there is usually some happy greeting time followed by a trip outside to go potty for dogs. This visit will be scheduled during the time that your pet needs their evening insulin. After dogs get their evening walk, or cats have playtime, it is time for dinner and medication. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pet has company. Before leaving, your sitter turns on some lights so your pets are not alone in the dark, and to make your home appear lived in.

9-10 Hour Regular Overnight Stay 

Your sitter will arrive in the evening (around 10 p.m.) and let your dog out for a potty break. Your sitter then settles your pup in for their normal bedtime routine. Maybe your dog sleeps in the bed with your sitter, or on a dog bed in the bedroom. If your dog needs a tuck in with a blanket or a late-night treat, that will happen. In the morning there is time for a let out or a quick walk and feeding. Before leaving, your sitter will set your pup up for the day with her normal routine, including breakfast and medication. The overnight stay is especially good for dogs who are accustomed to having company and companionship overnight and provides a level of consistency that dogs appreciate. It also allows your sitter to keep an eye on your pet’s behavior for any changes that indicate she is not feeling well.

Pet cat laying down on cat perch

Pet cat laying down on cat perch by Noun Project from NounProject.com

Diabetic Pet Option #3

This is a good schedule for pet sitting diabetic pets who are fine with being home alone overnight.

 

30-Minute Breakfast Visit

Your sitter will arrive in the morning (between 7-8:30 am) and take your dog for a walk or playtime, whichever is normal for her. It is an exciting time to get up and stretch our legs first thing in the morning! Cats gets some cuddles and playtime, whatever they like. Then comes feeding, medication, and other normal chores. Before leaving your sitter will set your pup up for the day with her normal routine, whether it be a stuffed KONG or leaving a radio on.

30 Minute Late Afternoon Visit

Your sitter arrives ready for a walk and playtime! Your pup will be happy to see her after a day apart, so there is usually some happy greeting time followed by a trip outside to go potty. Then they are off for their walk or playtime outside, depending on what your dog prefers. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. Before leaving, your sitter turns on some lights so your dog in not alone in the dark, and to make your home appear lived in.

15-30 Minute Night Visit

This visit should be timed to be 12 hours apart from your breakfast visit. The sitter will take dogs out for a last-minute potty break and then feeding and medication. It allows your pup to close out the day comfortably and securely. Your sitter will let your pup out and settle her in for the night with her normal routine. At the end it is lights out and time for sleep!

Cavalier spaniel sitting under under purple blanket

Cavalier spaniel sitting under under purple blanket by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com

Our Considerations for all Pets

When it comes to pet sitting diabetic pets, there are a few factors we like to consider when setting a schedule:

  • All diabetic pets need visits spaced 12 hours apart for insulin, so we stick to that when scheduling.
  • How long is your dog used to being home during the day? Do you work a full dog or do you work from home?
  • How often does your dog go outside during a normal day? It is easy to underestimate so try counting for a few days to be sure.
  • Does your dog need a lot of exercise? If so, consider schedules for active dogs.
  • Where do your pets sleep at night? If your dog waits for you to go to bed and then joins you, you need overnight stays. If your dog wanders off at 9 p.m. and you don’t see her again until 7 a.m., you can probably get away with just visits, if you want.
  • For you – are you more comfortable having someone active around the house? If so, then you want an Extended Overnight.

Time to Customize!

We want to work with you to set up the best possible schedule for your dog, so you are all happy during your trip. We also know that each home is different, and a lot of people have more than just one dog!

After you have a basic idea of your schedule we sit down to figure out the nitty-gritty:

  • Are there any other pets in the home that need feeding, medication, etc.? We make sure your visit has enough time to get everything done.
  • We like to allow enough time for feeding, changing water, walks, and some cuddles (if your pet is so inclined).
  • There needs to be enough time to clean out food and water bowls and clean up any messes, toys, etc.
  • Many people who love animals, also love plants! Normal visits have time for a small bit of plant watering. If you have beautiful summer gardens, then we need to see how long they take to the water and add that on to your normal visits.
  • On your normal schedule, we can complete household tasks like bringing in the newspaper, collecting the mail, turning lights off and on, and taking out the trash.
  • Do you want updates every visit? Many clients do, just keep in mind that your sitter will take 5+ minutes to send an update and that is time during your visit not focused on your pets.
  • It will take a sitter a bit longer to get the work done than it takes you, especially if you have extensive routines for your pets and home. You have had years to perfect your system! We always try to make sure your pet sitter will have enough time for everything so she will not feel stressed and your pets will receive the focus they deserve.

Work With Us to Keep Your Pets Healthy While You are Gone!

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep? Header

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep?

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep? Header

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep?

One of the most common questions we get asked is “Where does a pet sitter sleep overnight?” And the answer might shock you:

Anywhere you give them the okay to sleep!

Some of the most common places our pet sitters sleep are:

  • Guest bedrooms
  • Master bedrooms
  • (Comfy) couches

Our sitters do enjoy when clients have freshly washed any bedding as it helps them settle in. Your pet sitter will often bring their own pillow and blanket to sleep with and to lay on top of any bedding already on the bed or place on a comfy couch. When it comes to picking a place for your pet sitter to sleep we recommend picking a place that your pets are used to sleeping. If your pets sleep in the master bedroom with you we recommend your pet sitter sleeping in the master bedroom. If you’re not comfortable with that, a guest bedroom or a preferably comfy couch is another great option.

Don’t have a guest bedroom or you don’t want your sitter sleeping on the couch? No problem. Air mattresses, roll-out beds, and futons are also options!

 

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Best Vets in Greeley, Colorado

Best Vets in Greeley, Colorado Header

 

Are you looking for a vet in Greeley, Colorado? You’re in luck! Folks in Greeley love their pets and the quality of veterinary care reflects that. There are some wonderful vets to chose from! Choosing the right vet for you is more about their location, expertise, and their style of caring for your pets. I personally prefer a small clinic and am willing to drive across town, but you may prefer a large clinic with longer hours or a clinic that is close.

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

Here is a list of veterinarians that we have heard wonderful things about. We have included a few details but you will want to be sure to check them out and make sure they are a good match for you. There is nothing wrong with trying a few veterinarians to find the right one for you!

Alpine Veterinary Hospital

  • (970) 352-8835
  • 131 North 35th Ave, Greeley, CO 80634
  • Alpine Veterinary Hospital is a smaller clinic with a single veterinarian.

Edwards Veterinary Care

  • (970) 515-6405
  • 5240 W 9th Street Dr, Suite 400, Greeley, CO 80634
  • Edwards Veterinary Clinic is a small clinic with personalized care.

Highland Hills Pet Hospital

  • (970) 330-3332
  • 5592 West 19th St, Greeley, CO 80634
  • Highland Hills Pet Hospital is a single vet clinic that offers personalized care.

Sheep Draw Veterinary Hospital

  • (970) 351-0936
  • 6297 W 10th St, Greeley, CO 80634
  • Sheep Draw Veterinary Hospital is a larger clinic providing services to a wide variety of pets.

St Michaels Companion Animal Hospital

  • (970) 330-9400
  • 2914 67th Ave Suite 102, Greeley, CO 80634
  • St Michaels Companion Animal Hospital is a larger clinic that offers a wide variety of services
  • Sees exotic pets.

West Ridge Animal Hospital

  • (970) 330-7283
  • 8235 20th St, Greeley, CO 80634
  • West Ridge Animal Hospital is a larger clinic offering a variety of services.
  • Also offers boarding care.

 

Now take a look at their websites and give them a call to see which veterinarian is the best match for you!

5 Dog Treat Recipes That Your Dog Will Love

5 Dog Treat Recipes That Your Dog Will Love Header

5 Dog Treat Recipes That Your Dog Will Love

Looking to make a dog treat recipes that your dog will love? We have five for you! Including grain-free options.

Remember: As will all peanut butter dog treats, make sure you’re using xylitol-free peanut butter.

1. 4 Ingredient Carob Dog Treats

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Microwave coconut oil for 15-20 seconds or until melted.
  2. Whisk together carob powder, vanilla extract, and coconut oil.
  3. Fold in the frozen blueberries (make sure they’re still frozen!)
  4. Pour the mixture into a mold of your choice.
  5. Place the mold in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Let set for 5 minutes at room temperature before serving.

4 Ingredient Carob Dog Treats Recipe Card

2. Grain-Free Pumpkin Coconut Dog Treats

Ingredients:

  • 15oz Pumpkin Puree
  • ½c Peanut Butter
  • ½c Melted Coconut Oil
  • 1c Applesauce
  • 1⅔c Coconut Flour
  • 1tsp Turmeric (optional)
  • 1tsp Cinnamon (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, peanut butter, coconut oil, and applesauce until smooth.
  3. Add in the turmeric, cinnamon, and coconut flour.
  4. Let ingredients rest for 10-15minutes. If your dough is too moist, let it sit for a bit longer.
  5. Layout a piece of parchment paper and place the dough on top. Then place another piece of parchment on top of that dough. Roll the dough between the parchment paper sandwich until the dough is about 1/4” thick.
  6. Place dough onto a cookie sheet and let chill for 20-30 minutes.
  7. Remove the top layer of parchment paper, and then cut using cooking cutters. You can also use something like a spice container lid for smaller, circular treats.
  8. Bake in preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the cookies are dry and hard. Check on treats at around 20 minutes as these can be finicky. Let cool completely.

Grain-Free Pumpkin Coconut Dog Treats Recipe Card

3. Grain-Free Veggie Packed Dog Treats

Ingredients:

  • ⅔c Pumpkin Puree
  • ¼c Peanut Butter
  • ½c Applesauce
  • 3c Almond Flour
  • 1c Carrots, peeled and shredded
  • 1c Baby Spinach, chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and applesauce until well combined.
  3. Add in the almond flour, ½c at a time.
  4. Add spinach and carrots. Mix until incorporated.
  5. Roll the dough into small balls OR use cookie cutters to make fun shapes. If using cookie cutters, allow dough to chill for at least one hour before cutting.
  6. Place treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes or until treats turn golden brown on the edges.

Grain-Free Veggie Packed Dog Treats Recipe Card

4. Tuna Yum Yums

Designed with cats in mind, Tuna Yum Yums are great for smaller dogs too.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of flour
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of non-fat milk
  • 1/2 can of tuna
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or fish oil
  • 1 beaten egg
  • Optional: a teaspoon of catnip, mint, or parsley

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and place parchment paper on a cookie sheet
  2. Mash or cut the tuna into small pieces, mix in the flour and milk
  3. Pour in water and vegetable oil, then mix well
  4. In a separate dish, beat the egg
  5. Mix the beaten egg into the tuna mix
  6. Mix well, until the mix becomes dough-like
  7. Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of blueberries, and place on the baking sheet
  8. Cook the dough for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Stick a toothpick in to check that the treat is fully cooked
  9. Cool for an hour before feeding to your kitty and make sure not to overindulge them.

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5. Bacon-Carob Popcorn

Ingredients:

  • 4c Unsalted Popcorn
  • 10oz Carob Chips
  • 1c Crumbled Bacon
  • 1c Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, melt carob chips and peanut butter together. You can do this in the microwave in bursts of 30 seconds. Stir in between each burst until melted.
  2. In a large bowl, mix popcorn, bacon, and the carob-peanut butter mixture.
  3. Stir slowly until the popcorn is evenly coated.
  4. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes or until firm.

Dog Friendly Bacon Peanut Butter Popcorn Recipe Card

Do you want even more treats? Check out these other great recipes:

Did you make any of our dog treat recipes? Tag us @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting.

Best Vets in Windsor, Colorado

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Are you looking for a vet in Windsor, Colorado? You’re in luck! Windsor is a quickly growing area and has a wonderful selection of veterinarians for your dogs and cats. Choosing the right vet for you is more about their location, expertise, and their style of caring for your pets. Some people prefer a small clinic with a single veterinarian and others prefer a larger clinic with more staff.

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

Here is a list of veterinarians that we have heard wonderful things about. We have included a few details but you will want to be sure to check them out and make sure they are a good match for you. There is nothing wrong with trying a few veterinarians to find the right one for you!

The Vets Animal Hospital

  • (970) 686-5198
  • 1295 Main St, Suite 7, Windsor, CO 80550
  • The Vets Animal Hospital is a smaller clinic with a single veterinarian and wonderful support staff.

Windsor Veterinary Clinic

  • (970) 686-9664
  • 415 Main St, Windsor, CO 80550
  • Windsor Veterinary Clinic is a smaller clinic.
  • Fear Free Certified

Garden Valley Veterinary Hospital

  • (970) 674-5105
  • 32450 State Highway 257 #A, Windsor, CO 80550
  • Garden Valley Veterinary Hospital is a larger clinic that also offers boarding and grooming.

The Meadows Veterinary Center

  • (970) 223-9800
  • 8030 S County Rd 5, Windsor, CO 80528
  • The Meadows Veterinary Center is a medium-sized clinic that also offers laser services and acupuncture.

Mountainwood Pet Hospital

  • (970) 686-5725
  • 1200 West Ash Street, Windsor, CO 80550
  • Moutainwood Pet Hospital is a medium-sized clinic that also offers emergency care 24 hours a day for clients.

 

Now take a look at their websites and give them a call to see which veterinarian is the best match for you!