Tag Archive for: christmas

How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

How to Keep Your Cat out of the Christmas Tree Header

How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

Keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree can be a challenge. Firstly, why do cats enjoy Christmas trees so much? There are a few reasons.

  • Your cat has never seen a Christmas tree before and the lights, ornaments, or even the tree itself is a new curiosity.
  • It’s a different tree than the one you had previously.
  • Cat’s like to climb and hide, Christmas trees are perfect for this.

Here are a few creative ways to keep your cat out of the Christmas tree this season.

1. Pet Playpen

If you have an adult cat or a cat that can jump high this method won’t work for you. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing option it’s great for kittens that can’t jump that high quite yet.

Playpens come in a variety of sizes. The one pictured above is the top rated one on Amazon at the time of writing.

Pet Rex Foldable Metal Pet Exercise Playpen on Amazon @ $38.05

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Pine Cones

This is a method I’ve heard about from friends. Get some pine cones (if you have pine trees in your backyard great!) and spray them lightly with apple cider vinegar. Cats generally dislike the smell of apple cider vinegar. It’s also why they don’t tend to get into the natural gnat traps I occasionally have to put out.

3. Cat Proof the Tree Stand

No matter which tree type you go with, real or artificial, a tree skirt is a great idea to hide the stand or pot. You’ll also want to wrap the base with tin foil. You can also use sand bags or bags of cat litter to help weigh down your artificial tree base in case kitty makes a leaping jump for the tree.

4. Citrus Oil Spray

Making a spray of water and orange, lemongrass, or citronella oil has proven effective at deterring some cats. You can also sprinkle orange peels around the base of your tree just make sure to replace them every day or two so they don’t get moldy and start attracting insects.

5. Avoid Edible Ornaments

Not only are these often not meant for cats to eat they provide a tempting incentive for climbing the tree. Avoiding edible ornaments is one way to make the tree less appealing to your cat.

And some bonus tips:

  • Avoid decorating with delicate, breakable, or sentimental ornaments until you know how you cat reacts to the tree. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in climbing but only batting at lower ornaments, place these up high and out of reach.
  • Pine sap and oils can be harmful to cats. Make sure you cover the pot to avoid your cat drinking the water. You can also cover it with a piece of foil for added security.
  • Avoid tinsel. Tinsel can cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested. This is also why you should avoid toys that use the shine of tinsel to attract cats. If you cat ingests tinsel do not try to remove it yourself. Call your veterinarian and seek emergency medical help.

Let us know if these tips were helpful in keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree this year in the comments.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers Header

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

Looking for Christmas gifts for the pet lovers in your life? Here are our top 7 gifts we recommend you give this holiday season.

1. The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw

These blankets have been an affordable and adorable staple in my gift-giving trove for years. But any pet themed blanket will do nicely. Sometimes Kohls will have these blankets on sale for $9.99. They wash up well, are a decent size, and are super soft. They rotate patterns year round so if you don’t see one you like make sure to check back.

https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Blue_Dog?wid=1200&hei=1200&op_sharpen=1https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Cats?wid=600&hei=600&op_sharpen=1

The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw on Kohls @ $29.99

2. Cat Mom & Cat Dad Apparel

meow.com has a wide variety of both Cat Mom and Cat Dad apparel to choose from as well as accessories and mystery bundles. Perfect if you want the gift to truly be a surprise.

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom Tee Meow

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom SQ Tee @ $28.99

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee @ $28.99

3. Dog Breed Soy Candle

ScriptedFragrance has a wide selection of hand-poured soy candles decorated with different dog breeds. The listing claims these candles can burn up to 50 hours.

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass image 0

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass on Etsy @34.00

4. Pet Memorial Gift

Has the pet lover in your life recently lost a beloved pet? Consider getting them a meaningful gift of a pet memorial. I like to use Etsy when looking for pet memorial gifts because of the wide variety of items they have made by various artisans. If you don’t have a photo of the pet handy consider a generic memorial gift such as the ones below.

Willow Tree Angel of Friendship, Sculpted Hand-Painted Figure on Amazon @ $28.95 Cat Version Here.

Willow Tree has a wide selection of different pet memorial figures. If the one above isn’t quite what you’re looking for check out their others.

To My Dog Mama Rainbow Bridge Pet Memorial Gifts Dog image 0

To My Dog Mama, Rainbow Bridge Pet Necklace on Etsy Starting @ $33.96 Cat Version Here.

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher Rearview Mirror image 0

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher on Etsy @ $24.00

5. Page-A-Day Calendar

I’ve gotten this as a gift before and have bought one every year since. It’s fun to see the cat pictures and read their little bios submitted by people.

365 Cats Page-A-Day Calendar 2022 on Amazon @ $15.99 Dog Version Here.

If you’re reading this in 2022 or beyond, Amazon conveniently provides a link to the newer product new the top of the listing. You can also search for 365 Cats Page-A-Day calendar [YEAR] to get the latest one.

6. Animal Adult Coloring Book

Coloring books aren’t just for kids! They also make great Christmas gifts for the adult pet lovers in your life. In the past few years coloring books have taken off as a great way to relieve stress and get creative. There are hundreds of animal adult coloring books out there. You’re sure to find one that matches your pet lovers personality.

100 Baby Animals: A Coloring Book on Amazon @ $8.99

Color Animals Coloring Book: Perfectly Portable Pages on Amazon @ $4.63

I own the Color Animals Coloring Book and while it is small it’s perfect to bring with you somewhere. Don’t forget to pick them up some colored pencils if you’re not sure if they have any!

7. Primitives By Kathy

Primitives By Kathy has some super cute household gifts with all different themes but we know why you’re here; you need a gift for a pet lover. Check out their Dog is Good collection for tea towels, socks, pouches, coasters, and more. They also have cat themed gifts as well.\

Dish Towel – Less People More Cats

Socks - I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie - One Size Fits Most - Cotton, Nylon, Spandex

Socks – I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie

If you don’t want to order directly from the supplier, Amazon has a much smaller selection but does have some items.

And a bonus…

8. Something for Their Pet

This might seem counterintuitive but there are some people who really don’t want or need anything for the holidays. I’m one of those people! Unless you know I’ve been eyeing something I would be more than happy if you got me something for my cats – assuming it’s something appropriate and safe for them. Most of my close friends who would do this know I don’t do bells or tinsel on cat toys because of the potential choking hazards and that I’m very selective in my treats. If you’re unsure, just ask! I’d also love if a friend asked me what they could get me for my pets.

Do you already own any of these Christmas gifts for pet lovers? Let us know which ones are your favorite or if you plan to purchase any of these this holiday season in the comments below.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Dogs

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Dogs

Not sure what to get the dog who has everything? We have you covered. From light up toys to personalized gifts these Christmas gifts for dogs are sure to bring hours (or minutes depending on your dog) of fun!

1. Nite Ize Flashflight LED Dog Discuit

Have a dog who loves to be outside but struggle to find that pesky Frisbee? Look no further! This Discuit lights up and is easy to spot not only in the snow but also when it’s darker outside.

Nite Ize Flashflight LED Dog Discuit on Amazon @ $16.09

2. Advent Calendar

Most pet stores, large box stores included, don’t list their annual advent calendars online unless they have a surplus of them. That means you’ll have to start checking stores around early November if you want to snag one of these hot ticket items. If you’re looking for a cat version of these, check out our Top 7 Christmas Gifts for Cats.

Honey i'm home advent calendar Honey Im Home UN delivery | Cornershop by Uber

Honey I’m Home Countdown Christmas

7 Best Pet Advent Calendars 2020 - Dog & Cat Advent Calendars

Himalayan Pet Supply Best Friend’s Advent Calendar

3. Jiminy’s Cricket Protein Soft & Chewy Dog Training Treats

I’ll admit, I’ve tried one of these. Was it the best thing I’ve ever eaten? No. Was it the worst? Not by far. If you’re looking for a treat that uses a novel protein Jiminy’s Cricket treats might be for you as they use crickets as their protein source. They are perfect if somebody you know it getting a dog this holiday season as they’re the perfect size for training treats.

Jiminy’s Cricket Protein Sweet Potato and Pea Soft & Chewy Dog Training Treats on Amazon $9.95

4. Spunky Pup Bow Blaster

You’ve heard of Chuckit! but have you heard of the Bow Blaster? It works like a slingshot and launches balls farther than you could with just your arm. Great for the dog who loves tennis balls.

Bow Blaster | Spunky Pup

Bow Blaster @ $24.99

5. DogWine

This isn’t the same wine you buy off the shelf. Made with filtered water, organic bacon, and organic salmon oil this wine is 100% dog safe.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1382/2223/products/7-20PetWinery0525_43f8b302-c9ee-4634-81c4-4299f2683c7b.jpg?v=1594739073

FetchMe Noir on PetWinery.com @ $9.99

Also check out their DIY ice cream bar for both cats and dogs.

6. Personalized Letter Dog Toy

These cute personalized letter dog toys are sure to be a hit in any dogs stocking. Comes in two sizes for both small and large dogs.

Letter Personalized Dog Toy Christmas Letter To Santa Squeaker image 0

Personalized Dog Toy Letter on Etsy @ $15.00

7. HuggleHounds Christmas Toys

HuggleHound toys are best for dogs who are more gentle with their toys. Each year they release new Christmas and Hanukkah toys in all sizes. This year they’ll be replacing their Starlight Reindeer with a Starlight Unicorn.

HUGGLEHOUNDS® HOLIDAY SANTA KNOTTIES — Agri Feed Pet Supply

HuggleHounds Website

Now that you’ve filled your pets stocking you probably don’t want to have to go and buy new toys for a bit. Here’s how you can keep your pets toys looking like new. Did you pick any of these toys up? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats Header

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

Looking for a Christmas gift for a cat? We have 7 gifts you need to buy to fill up your cats stocking.

1. Yeowww!!!! Tide Candy Cane

I’m a huge fan of Yeowww!!!! toys. They’re a bit pricey but they are durable and can withstand the numerous bite marks, bunny-kicks, and cat slobber. Worth picking up any of their toys, not just their Christmas toys.

Yeowww!!!!! – 100% Organic Catnip CAT Toy – Tide Candy Cane – Made in USA  On Amazon @ $14.50

2. Advent Calendar

Most pet stores, large box stores included, don’t list their annual advent calendars online unless they have a surplus of them. That means you’ll have to start checking stores around early November if you want to snag one of these hot ticket items. Last year I purchased the Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart. As with human advent calendars, these came with 25 different toys – some hard, soft, and tinsel toys (those were thrown away). Providing my cats with a new fun toy each day leading up until Christmas.

Advent Calendars For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart

Purina Fancy Feast also did a food advent calendar which is ideal for a pet owner already feeding Fancy Feast. I found these at PetSmart and Target. It does appear they had an online exclusive offering last year that included a small 2020 ornament.

 

Fancy Feast Feastivites Advent Calendar For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Purina Fancy Feast Advent Calendar

3. Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™

Each year, Target puts out new seasonal cardboard cat scratchers. They always have a few online exclusives so make sure to check online if you don’t see the one you want in store. These are fairly sturdy and are easy to assemble – I do recommend having some extra tape on hand. Currently I still have last years Christmas theater, even if it has a few chunks taken out of it.

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House - XL - Wondershop™ - image 2 of 9

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™ on Target @ $34.99

4. CatWine

This isn’t the same wine you buy off the shelf. Made with filtered water, organic catnip, and organic salmon oil this wine is 100% cat safe.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1382/2223/products/7-20PetWinery0524.jpg?v=1594737655

Purrgundy on PetWinery.com @ $9.99

Also check out their DIY ice cream bar for both cats and dogs.

5. Personalized Letter Cat Toy

I love Etsy because of all the fun things you can find on it, handmade by local artisans. These letter toys are sure be a favorite as they’re catnip infused.

Letter Personalized Cat Toy Letter to Santa Cat Toy Catnip Toy image 0

Letter Personalized Cat Toy on Etsy @ $10.00

If you don’t like the letter, the seller offers a variety of personalized cat toys for multiple holidays.

6. Christmas Lights Cat Toy

Does kitty like to get into the tree? Why not give them their own string of lights! This string is free from electrical components so they can play until their heart is content.

Christmas Lights Cat Toy Organic Catnip Holiday Cat Toy image 2

Christmas Lights Cat Toy on Etsy, Starting @ $14.00

7. Kitty Coal

For the “naughty” kitty on the list why not stuff their stocking with coal?

Coal Cat Toys  Naughty Kitty's Christmas Coal  Cat Toy  image 0

Okay, okay this isn’t real coal but rather a cute catnip toy shaped like a piece of coal.

Coal Cat Toys on Etsy @ $20.00

Now that you stocked up on Christmas gifts for your cat, you probably don’t want to have to go and buy new toys for a bit. Here’s how you can keep your pets toys looking like new.

Jerky Treats Your Dog and Cat Will Love

Jerky Treats Your Dog and Cat Will Love Header

One Ingredient Chicken Jerky

These yummy chicken jerky treats make special and healthy snacks for your cat and dog.

Ingredients:

  • 1lb deboned, chicken breasts

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 175-180℉ or the lowest temperature setting.
  2. Lightly grease a baking sheet with a slight edge. You can use parchment paper to help with cleanup.
  3. Slice chicken breasts into ¼-inch thick strips.
  4. Place sliced chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet leaving about ½-inch between slices.
  5. Bake for two hours. If the slices are not dry, continue baking until they appear very dry.
  6. Remove and let cool on a cooling rack. To store, refrigerate in an airtight container once cool.

If the slices are too long for your cat you can break them into smaller pieces. You can also slice the jerky treats for smaller dogs as well. This means the jerky will last even longer!

One Ingredient Chicken Jerky Recipe Card

Chicken Jerky

Here is another version of the above chicken jerky treats for cats and dogs. Try both and see which one you like the most!

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.
  2. Wash the chicken breasts with water and slice into 1/4 inch strips.
  3. Place the chicken strips in an single, even layer on a baking sheet, leave a small amount of space between each strip.
  4. Bake until the chicken strips are dehydrated, about 2 hours.

Check that the strips are done by cutting one open. There should be no uncooked parts and there should not be any moisture inside. Store the jerky in sealed containers for about a week or longer in the refrigerator.

Christmas Chicken Jerky Recipe Card

Did you try this recipe? Let us know @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting and while you’re at it, try another one of our cat treat recipes or how about our peanut butter molasses dog treats?

Frozen Apple Smoothie Bites – Dog Treat Recipe

Frozen Apple Smoothie Bites HeaderFrozen Apple Smoothie Bites 

Our frozen apple smoothie bites are a great way to add more fiber to your pets diet. What’s even better is these treats only need three ingredients! Apples are also a good source of vitamin A and C. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds first. Now onto the recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Apples
  • 1 Cup Greek Nonfat Plain Yogurt
  • Water

Directions:

  1. Slice 2 apples into small pieces but remove the seeds and the core.
  2. Mix the apple slices, yogurt, and a splash of water in your NutriBullet or blender and blend until you get a liquid consistency.
  3. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze for a few hours or until hard.
  4. Put the leftover treats into a Tupperware container and store them in the freezer.

Frozen Apple Smoothie Bites Recipe Card

Did you make our smoothie bites? Let us know @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. Looking for another fruit filled recipe? Try our Strawberry Ice Cream recipes.

Gingerbread Christmas Dog Treats

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Gingerbread Christmas Dog Treats

If you’ve been baking this holiday season you know that most of the treats your dog can’t have. But what about gingerbread? Gingerbread is yummy treat for your dog this holiday season. These treats are very easy to make and fairly healthy for your dog.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups of whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons of ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
  • 1/2 cup of molasses
  • 1/4 cup of canola oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a small bowl mix the flour, ginger, cinnamon and cloves together.
  3. In a separate bowl mix the molasses, water and oil.
  4. Mix the molasses mix into the flour mix and combine until it forms a dough.
  5. On a floured surface roll out the dough to a 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut the cookies into holiday shapes and place on baking sheet.
  7. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Let the cookies cool and feed to your dog.

Gingerbread Christmas Dog Treats Recipe

Tried making our gingerbread dog treats? Let us know @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. Want more? Try our Thanksgiving treats and our Tuna Yum Yums for cats!

Easiest Ever Two-Ingredients Dog Treats

Easiest Ever Two-Ingredients Dog Treats Header

The Easiest Ever Two-Ingredients Dog Treats

We mean easy! These treats only take two ingredients: whole wheat flour and baby food. You can substitute the whole wheat flour for another type of flour, but keep in mind the texture and consistency of the dough might not be the exact same. Here’s how to make our easiest ever two-ingredients dog treats.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Mix ingredients together to form a stiff dough. If necessary, add extra flour or water as needed.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out evenly until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut into the desired shape or a pizza cutter to make cubes.
  4. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper, place treats about 1/2 inch apart. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes.
  5. Allow them to cool completely before storing in a paper bag (storing in an air-tight container will make them soft, but they’re still edible).

Easiest Ever Two-Ingredients Dog Treats Recipe Card

What do you think of our easiest ever two-ingredients dog treats? Were they as easy as you thought? Let us know @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. Want more? Try our Thanksgiving treats and our Tuna Yum Yums for cats!

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Header

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas?

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Header

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas?

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

Avoid These Foods

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

Enjoy These Foods

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

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

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

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

What Can Your Pets Eat on Christmas? Inforgraphic

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

What to Do NOW to Prepare for the Christmas Puppy

 

Adding a new puppy to the family is exciting and fun, but can also be overwhelming, no matter what time of year. If you are thinking of combining the crazy of the holidays with a new puppy, you need to start getting ready now! There are many steps you can (and should) take months in advance to ensure this is a smooth process. Thankfully we are here to help!

1. Choose Your Breed of Dog

There is huge difference between a Cocker Spaniel and a Border Collie, so before you look at cute puppy pictures you want to have an idea of what is a good fit for your lifestyle. It is easy to get swept up in the cute puppy face only to realize a month later that this puppy has WAY more energy than you are up for.  Some factors to consider:

  • Do you have young children?
  • How much time to do you have to train a dog?
  • How much exercise do you get regularly?
  • How large is your yard?
  • What breeds are you allowed to have? (look at your state and city laws, HOA restrictions and talk to your landlord)

The American Kennel Club has a fast and easy quiz that gives you some breed recommendations. I took this quiz and found some of my favorite breeds on my suggestions. Even if you are looking to get a rescue mutt or mixed breed, it is still good to have an idea of the types of dog what would suit your lifestyle. Also consider contacting a local dog trainer for recommendations and they often know local breeders and rescues (Step 2).

2. Look For a Rescue or Breeder

Finding a good rescue or breeder is invaluable! These people can be a resource for you throughout the lifetime of your dog, offering advice and tips on pet care, trainers and more. Take your time and get to know them online and in person. Ask for referrals and do your research. There are a few different types of groups you can go to and they all work a bit differently.

  • General Dog Shelters and Rescues: Rescues often have puppies year round, but it is good to connect with them in advance to find out their requirements for adoption. You can usually fill out paperwork ahead of time and maybe get on a wait list for the type of dog you are interested in. Plus you want time to screen the rescue and make sure they are responsible and take good care of their dogs. Unfortunately there are shelters that operate for profit and have sketchy business practices.
  • Dog Breed Specific Rescues: These are groups that work specifically with a breed, or a group of breeds. They tend to be located in specific areas and often operate out of foster homes,  so you cannot just swing by, but they are an amazing resource. Since they focus on just one type of dog, they know a lot about that breed and every dog they work with. The dogs are often in foster homes so the foster parents can tell you a lot about the puppy’s personality and how they have been socialized. They will often also have adult dogs you can go and meet, in case you are still debating if the breed is a good match for you. To find breed rescues near you just search the breed and your area.
  • Dog Breeders: If you know the exact breed of dog and have the money to spend, you may consider going directly to a dog breeder. Ask for referrals and follow up with previous puppy purchasers. You should be able to meet dogs from their kennel and puppies they have bred in the past. Read up on How to Find a Good Dog Breeder.
  • NO Pet Shops: You have the time to prepare, so do not jump the gun and get a puppy from a pet shop. Puppies in pet shops are cute but they come from puppy mills, one of the cruelest animal practices found in the United States. Some states are making it illegal to sell puppies in pet shops, and in addition to it being a bad practice, dogs from puppy mills often have lingering health and behavior problems.

Take your time and do your research. That is why you are starting early, right?

3. Find Your Local Team

Puppies require a team of people to keep them happy and healthy. If you do not currently have a dog then you will want to take your time choosing the best group of professionals for you. Here are some of the people you may need in your life:

  • Veterinarian: Every new puppy will need to make checked out by a veterinarian within a few days of coming home. You are going to want a vet that your like personally, is near your home and has a similar outlook on pet care as you do. Read up on our 5 Tips to Pick a Veterinarian You Love.
  • Dog Trainer: All puppies need to get out to socialize! A puppy class is a great way to do this and also the best way to brush up on your puppy raising skills, even if you have had a puppy before. Puppy classes fill up very quickly after the holidays so you want to make sure to get on the schedule as soon as you are sure you are getting a puppy to make sure you get a good spot.
  • Puppy Sitter and Walker: If you work away from home, like to take day trips, or travel for work or fun, you are going to need a puppy sitter. Keep in mind that young puppies need a potty break every 2-3 hours (they can typically last an hour per month of age, but it varies by breed), so if you are not going to be home all day then you will need help. A good puppy sitter can be a lifesaver and help socialize your pup in your own home. Learn about our Puppy Walking Services and what Puppy Visits we recommend for vacation. We even have some clients that are home during the day, but we come in to give them a break so they can get some work done or run errands.
  • Poop Scooper: If you do not like cleaning up your own yard, or just do not have time, then consider getting someone else to do it for you. Poop Scoopers have become all the rage lately and can save you time and effort. Most come in once a week for a very reasonable rate and keep your yard shining. If you have a dog walker they might also be willing to scoop your yard for an extra fee like we do.
  • Dog Groomer: Is your pup going to need regular cuts and clips? She may not need one right away, but ideally you will want to drop by with her a few times to let her get used to the place before her first grooming.

If you live in the Fort Collins or Loveland areas, check out all of our local recommendations! Once you have chosen your team, set up as many appointments as you can. Spaces fill up after the holidays and it is so much easier to have it set and ready to go before the holiday craziness is underway.

4. Get Your Puppy Supplies

Everyone is shopping right before the holidays and since you know exactly what you need, you might as well get it in advance! You will also be able to find deals or used items if you give yourself pretty of time to search. Thankfully we prepared a full checklist of items you will need, as well as steps to take for getting a new dog.

Download the Complete Preparing for a New Dog  Checklist

 

 

5. Have Fun With the Process!

It can feel overwhelming to go through all these steps, but thankfully you are on the ball! Take your time and go through the steps one by one and when Christmas hits, you will feel on top of the world (and a little frazzled with the cute furball chewing on everything).

Let us know at Wet Noses Pet Sitting if there is anything we can do to help with your new pup!